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

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

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2017 No. 154 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was Now, why are we here? If that is true, then the airlines are called to order by the Speaker pro tem- We are here because the chairman of costing American consumers $11.5 bil- pore (Mr. BRAT). the committee insists that we must lion a year because they themselves f privatize the air traffic control of the won’t clean up their acts. United States, the largest, most com- Again, they go on about ATO. How DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO plex, safest, most advanced system in many times have their dispatch and TEMPORE the world, to make it even better. Un- reservation systems crashed in the last The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- fortunately, he does not enjoy support 5 years? fore the House the following commu- adequate to get this bill through. He Dozens of times, stranding millions nication from the Speaker: delayed the bill in the last Congress be- of people. WASHINGTON, DC, cause he didn’t have the votes, and the How many times has the entire ATC September 26, 2017. bill has been delayed multiple times in in the United States of America gone I hereby appoint the Honorable DAVE BRAT this Congress. It has bipartisan opposi- down? to act as Speaker pro tempore on this day. tion, and the Senate isn’t even think- PAUL D. RYAN, Zero. Zero times. Speaker of the House of Representatives. ing about this. So we should let them run it? They Now, why are we here? f will run it better, just like their com- Well, the airlines have this fake puter reservation and their dispatch MORNING-HOUR DEBATE group they call the Citizens for On systems? Time Flights. And they say we have to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Come on. There is really just a very fly old zigzag patterns across the ant to the order of the House of Janu- simple agenda here. We finance the United States with World War II radar. ary 3, 2017, the Chair will now recog- current Air Traffic Organization with a Well, that would be really bad if it nize Members from lists submitted by 7.5 percent tax on every ticket—a pro- were true. However, it is a lie. the majority and minority leaders for gressive tax. The more expensive your In fact, we have direct routes, per- morning-hour debate. ticket, the more you pay. That pays for formance-based navigation. Actually, The Chair will alternate recognition about 75 percent of the system today. the government has built and deployed between the parties. All time shall be The bill that the chairman wants to equally allocated between the parties, a functional system where we can fly every plane in America by GPS. But push will repeal the ticket tax. Airlines and in no event shall debate continue will raise prices 7.5 percent. So every- beyond 11:50 a.m. Each Member, other the airlines haven’t wanted to make the investment in their planes. So, ac- body will still pay the same amount for than the majority and minority leaders their tickets. and the minority whip, shall be limited tually, they are making a case against How do I know that? to 5 minutes. themselves. Because this tax temporarily lapsed 5 f Why aren’t we using the system more efficiently? years ago and every airline in America, DON’T PRIVATIZE AIR TRAFFIC Because they have failed to purchase except for Spirit and Alaska, imme- CONTROL the equipment to fly planes closer to- diately raised ticket prices 7.5 percent. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gether. If every plane doesn’t have So then how are we going to pay for Chair recognizes the gentleman from GPS, we can’t fly them closer together the system? Oregon (Mr. DEFAZIO) for 5 minutes. because the air traffic controllers Well, actually, they are going to im- Mr. DEFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, yester- won’t know exactly where they are. pose a new head tax. That is right. You day, a temporary extension of the abso- Now, they say: Well, if we get to run get on the plane and you will pay a new lutely crucial Federal Aviation Admin- the system, it will be more efficient. It head tax to use the airspace of the istration—which runs our air traffic is ATC that is the problem. United States of America. control system in the United States of Well, here is June: In June, actually, Now, that, of course, is a flat fee. So America; the largest, most complex, airline operations, overscheduling, if you have a $100 ticket, 25 percent and safest system in the world—failed. crew dispatch, mechanicals, the host of tax, $25 to sit in that seat. If you have It actually will expire on October 1. things that they have, caused 46 per- a $3,000 ticket, well, you are going to That means that the source of funding cent of the delays. pay a tiny fraction. It won’t bother you for air traffic goes away and air traffic And then they go on to say: Well, very much at all. So we are going to go controllers may be working without this is horrible, these delays. It costs from a fair, progressive tax that fi- salaries. Americans $20 billion a year. nances the system to a flat head tax.

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

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:54 Sep 26, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.000 H26SEPT1 H7490 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 The airlines get a $10 billion windfall. In Pennsylvania, MIECHV’s funds still at it. Instead of attacking our Na- And guess what. Your elected Rep- support four evidence-based home vis- tion’s problems, he is attacking us. resentative will have nothing to say iting models. These include Early Head Let’s take a quick look at some of about it. The people on the Ways and Start, Healthy Families America, the people and groups he has attacked Means Committee, the Republicans Nurse-Family Partnership, and Parents both as a candidate and President. On here, have decided that the airlines as Teachers. MIECHV funding plays a this board we have just a handful of the will have a vote on the new user fee. critical role in helping increase the people, places, and things President Yes, they will. They have a designated availability of these services to more Trump has insulted, and if we were seat on the board of the new private and more families across the Common- going to list them all, we would prob- corporation, so they will vote on the wealth of Pennsylvania. ably have to have dozens of poster user fee. Your elected Representative Scientific research has supported boards. does not have a vote, does not have re- claims that these services positively Here is a sampling: JOHN MCCAIN and view capability. It is entirely removed impact health, education, and employ- JEFF FLAKE; Barack Obama; Hillary from the jurisdiction of the United ment outcomes for children while re- Clinton, even though the election hap- States Congress. This is absolutely ducing criminal justice costs, instances pened a year ago; the media from The outrageous. of child abuse, and independence on ‘‘failing’’ New York Times and the I mean, a campaign based on lies. We public assistance. Amazon Washington Post to individual have a report from the Government Ac- These services can also play a key reporters like Katy Tur and Mika countability Office saying, in fact, if role in helping to support infants and Brzezinski; ObamaCare; Hamilton, the we privatize, it will delay things in mothers struggling with addiction. Broadway musical; Jeff Sessions, his terms of implementing the new system Pennsylvania has a long history of evi- own Attorney General; the Emmys; and make it more expensive. dence-based home visiting programs Nordstrom; the Russian investigation; I happen to have the draft report. It because they are a proven way to Rosie O’Donnell; the Paris climate was censored by political people in the strengthen families and improve the agreement; Meryl Streep; Mexicans; Bush administration. So the final re- lives of children. protesters; fake news; John Oliver; port just kind of waters down those For these reasons, I look forward to Mark Cuban; Snoop Dogg; and this conclusions. But they are still in there, supporting H.R. 2824, the Increasing weekend, the NFL and its players. and I am happy to make the draft re- Opportunity and Success for Children The list goes on and on. Well, it is ac- port available to anybody who wants to and Parents through Evidence-Based tually easier to name the people and know honestly what is going on around Home Visiting Act, when it comes to things that President Trump has not attacked than all of the ones that he here. This place is not straight up. the House floor this afternoon. f Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to has. So I came up with a very small list of people or groups that he has not at- do the same. REAUTHORIZE THE MATERNAL, tacked after several extensive Google INFANT, AND EARLY CHILDHOOD f searches. HOME VISITING PROGRAM ADMINISTRATION NEEDS TO First, I don’t think the President has The SPEAKER pro tempore. The FOCUS ON COUNTRY’S REAL attacked the barbershop quartet sing- Chair recognizes the gentleman from ISSUES ing organization: the Society for the Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON) for 5 Preservation and Encouragement of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The minutes. Barber Shop Quartet Singing, also Chair recognizes the gentleman from Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. known as SPEBSQSA. To the best of Wisconsin (Mr. POCAN) for 5 minutes. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of my knowledge, he has never attacked Mr. POCAN. Mr. Speaker, our Nation reauthorizing the Maternal, Infant, and them, so maybe he is a fan of barber- has a lot of issues on its plate. We have Early Childhood Home Visiting Pro- shop crooners. gram, known as MIECHV, which the to stabilize healthcare. We need an in- Although it is fairly recent, pumpkin House is expected to consider later frastructure plan that creates millions spice lattes. I know they just came out. today. of good-paying jobs. We need to deal It is a sign of fall, but so far there is no Proudly, the Commonwealth of Penn- with the hurricanes and the aftermath Twitter traffic from Trump attacking sylvania was one of the earliest adopt- not just in Texas and Florida, but also these tasty treats. ers of evidence-based State policies and in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. Finally, these very fine people Presi- has utilized MIECHV to aid more than We have a huge problem with North dent Trump hasn’t attacked nearly 4,000 families statewide. MIECHV-sup- Korea and nuclear weapons, and that is enough: the Klan, neo-Nazis, and other ported home visiting programs are just for starters. White supremacists. widely embraced on both sides of the So what did President Trump spend Instead of being the attacker in aisle. The programs have a proven his weekend doing? Fixing healthcare chief, President Trump is supposed to record of success, and they support the for tens of millions of people? unify the Nation, but all he does is di- Nation’s most vulnerable families dur- No. vide us. His job is to work for the ing a critical and crucial time in their Lobbying for a robust job-creating American people, to deliver on the children’s development. infrastructure plan? promises and actually help Americans. Parents truly are the children’s first No. Here are the issues we need help teachers, and the results speak for Sending aid to Puerto Rico? with: stabilize the Affordable Care Act themselves. MIECHV helps improve Not that either. to ensure tens of millions of people maternal and newborn health. It re- De-escalate the situation in North keep their coverage, and don’t just sab- duces child injuries, abuse, and neglect. Korea? otage the marketplace. It improves school readiness and Well, actually, quite the opposite. We need good-paying jobs and better achievement. It reduces crime and do- No. President Trump spent his week- wages for the American people. We mestic violence. It improves family end doing one of his favorite things: at- need a job and infrastructure plan like economic self-sufficiency. tacking Americans and various groups the President promised, but we have Mr. Speaker, during the home vis- on his favorite medium: Twitter. yet to see. iting process, nurses, social workers, His most recent attack: NFL players We need trade agreements that work educators, and other trained profes- who use their constitutional right to for American workers. Again, another sionals form relationships with the ex- freedom of speech to protest. promise we have had with no tangible pectant parents and visit with them But they are not the only ones and results. until their child has completed his or the only group being attacked. Back in And we need aid for Puerto Rico and her first year of school. This model of July, The New York Times found that the Virgin Islands after last week’s care empowers parents to make President Trump was on track to in- devastating hurricanes, much of what healthy decisions that positively im- sult 650 people, places, and things on has yet to materialize. pact their child’s health, well-being, Twitter by the end of his first term. Mr. President, while you are so busy and learning development. Well, 2 months later, he is certainly tweeting about the NFL, you attack a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:54 Sep 26, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.002 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7491 Black man for nonviolence more se- and fled to America with barely a con of honor and duty to his country verely than White supremacists for vio- penny to her name. My mom and mil- above himself. lence. lions of other immigrants leave the Professional athletes in this Nation, Look, taking a knee may have start- flags of these other countries—brutal whether they like it or not, are an ex- ed as a protest about racial inequality, dictatorships, Communist regimes, and ample for our young people. They about behavior by some in law enforce- other oppressive regimes—to come to should stop injecting anti-American ment discriminating against others in America to live under our flag. politics into sports. this country, but unarmed people of All Americans, whether you came as I applaud, again, President Trump for color are being killed simply for the an immigrant or you were born here, standing up for our flag and our na- color of their skin. you stay to live under this flag. If you tional anthem. All NFL athletes should I think today taking a knee is be- don’t like it, you don’t have to stay. stand together and do the same. coming a broader sign of patriotism You can go. No one is making you stay. f and respect for our country, for a coun- We love this flag. PRIORITIZING PUERTO RICO try that can be even greater for every Listening to my parents’ inspiring one of its citizens. It respects the lives stories, I knew from a young age that The SPEAKER pro tempore. The lost for those in this country to fight I absolutely believed in the American Chair recognizes the gentleman from for its ideals, which include nonviolent ideals of liberty as set forth by our Illinois (Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ) for 5 minutes. ´ protests. It is a sign of love of country, Founding Fathers. It is with this same Mr. GUTIERREZ. No, Mr. President, a country with a promise that has to be sense of honor and patriotism that I Puerto Rico is not doing well. We don’t for everyone regardless of the color of support President Trump in calling for need to be reminded of the debt. We their skin. all NFL players to honor our flag and should remind ourselves of our respon- I join so many now in the NFL and remember what has made our country sibility to the 3.4 million people of the elsewhere in taking a knee for the great. island nation of Puerto Rico. They are For a few hours many Sundays, I usu- America that we all aspire it to be. suffering greatly. Mr. Speaker, the peo- ally enjoy time with our son watching The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- ple of Puerto Rico need our immediate our favorite football teams battle on bers are reminded to refrain from en- and sustained help. the gridiron. We root for different gaging in personalities toward the We all know that flooding, destruc- teams. As a nation, we forget about our President and to direct their remarks tion, and complete elimination of the political and other differences and to the Chair. power grid for the whole island are come together to enjoy the sport of among the consequences of Hurricane f football. By these few players wrongly Maria, but this is no ordinary hurri- b 1015 deciding to turn the game into a polit- cane, and it hit at no ordinary time. ical statement, we lose that moment of Mr. Speaker, we need all hands on deck APPLAUDING PRESIDENT TRUMP national unity and respect for our to make sure rescuing Puerto Rico be- FOR HIS COMMENTS country. comes our number one priority. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Sports have always been a unifying Immediate needs must be met—fresh Chair recognizes the gentleman from factor and a chance for the Nation to water, food, medicine, shelter, and West Virginia (Mr. MOONEY) for 5 min- come together. NFL Commissioner fuel—but we need sustained investment utes. Roger Goodell, owners, coaches, and a and cooperation with the island’s gov- Mr. MOONEY of West Virginia. Mr. few players are showing a lack of re- ernment and its people to make Puerto Speaker, I rise today to applaud Presi- spect for our Nation and her military Rico livable again. Like a lot of Ameri- dent Trump for his comments last who gives them the freedom to play cans, I have watched with increasing football. As the men and women of our week which criticized the few NFL horror and panic as the Governor of armed services face challenges at home players who have chosen to kneel in Puerto Rico, the mayor of San Juan, or abroad, we should put our dif- protest during our national anthem. and ordinary Puerto Ricans have plead- ferences aside and unite around our The President is right to publicly ob- ed for more help. flag as a beacon of hope and under- ject to this disrespect to our flag and The work of first responders and our standing. I certainly respect anyone’s Nation. While we can disagree on poli- military has been heroic, but the island right to protest peacefully and the tics and policies, we should not deni- needs more. One-third of the doctors— right of an NFL team owner to dis- grate our flag and our national an- over 5,000—have left the island of Puer- cipline disorderly conduct or rude be- them. to Rico in the last 10 years. Hospitals I must mention that most NFL play- havior. Sadly, three NFL teams did not even have no doctors in some cases. Nurses, ers stood in respect for the flag. It is leave the locker room to hear the play- fuel, and medicine are running out at just a few who didn’t, who gave them a ing of our national anthem. Just one the hospitals that remain open. This is bad name and the sport a bad name. person on those three teams, Pitts- a public health crisis and should be de- In response to President Trump’s burgh Steeler Alejandro Villanueva, clared a health emergency by the Fed- criticism, NFL Commissioner Roger came out of the tunnel of the locker eral Government. Goodell called the President’s remarks room. You can see other people stand- Puerto Rico has been in an economic divisive. I would respond to Mr. Good- ing back there in the tunnel. He came crisis for years. Five thousand people ell that it is you and your players who out of the tunnel of the locker room to flee Puerto Rico every month—before disrespect our flag and our national an- honor our country. two hurricanes hit—leaving behind them who are being divisive. The Presi- Villanueva is a West Point graduate, many old, many young, the very poor, dent defending our flag is not divisive. former Army Ranger, and Bronze Star the very sick, and the very vulnerable. My father and thousands of other recipient. He knows the value of our There is no food in supermarkets. Americans fought under our flag in the flag. Sadly, instead of receiving the We need an airlift. We need an effort jungles of Vietnam. Young men and praise he deserved, many in the media the scale of Dunkirk. We know the U.S. women have died recently in service to attacked him. Even his coach, Mike is capable. We can invade foreign coun- our flag in Iraq and Afghanistan. In my Tomlin, said that when Alejandro tries with hundreds of thousands of house, we honored our flag not only be- Villanueva came out of that tunnel, he troops, flawless communications, food, cause of my father’s service, but be- was ‘‘not respectful of our football and security. We need the same effort cause of the deep sense of patriotism team.’’ now. We need the Federal Government my parents instilled in me. Not respectful of the team? Really, to go all in to rescue Puerto Rico from My mother, Lala Suarez Mooney, was Coach? How about respect for the flag? a humanitarian crisis which is devel- born and raised in Fidel Castro’s Cuba, How about our country which soldiers oping. where she and other members of her die for and the flag that allows you to Welcome other nations if they want family were thrown into jail for oppos- play that football game? Unbelievable. to help, Mr. President, like Cuba, that ing Castro’s Communist regime. When I hope all the young people out there has offered doctors and other emer- she was 20, my mother escaped Cuba look at Alejandro Villanueva as a bea- gency assistance. But what I fear is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:30 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.004 H26SEPT1 H7492 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 that the Federal Government is not tem, the Northeast Sump Manholes, as The Minnesota Farm Families pro- stepping up as fully and as quickly as well as the Northeast St. Cloud Water gram is a longstanding tradition in our we must. Quality Project, the city’s newest State, having taken place for the past I remember, in this body, when the water purifying project. To put the ef- 30 years. This program honors the fam- legislation to take over the Puerto fectiveness of these projects in perspec- ilies who have dedicated their lives to Rican government and put in place a tive, the Northeast St. Cloud Water agriculture. They are chosen because of junta or control board was working its Quality Project stops 10,200 pounds of their exceptional contribution to ad- way through Congress—the PROMESA sediment and 20 pounds of phosphorus vance Minnesota’s agriculture indus- bill. What was the main selling point from entering the Mississippi every try. for the bill? Vote for PROMESA be- year. This year, five families from my dis- cause it will not cost us a penny. So Because of the commitment to the trict were selected for their agricul- that is where this Congress and the health and safety of the city’s water tural contributions to our State. They Federal Government start from: not supply, last month St. Cloud was include Jim and Sally Myers from wanting to spend what needs to be awarded the Source Water Protection Anoka County, Rick and Marlene spent or do what needs to be done. Award. It is an honor to represent a Schlichting from Benton County, Curt We need to waive cost sharing that city that takes the health of its citi- and Joni Hedtke from Carver County, could charge—would charge—Puerto zens so seriously. Congratulations to the Bahnemann Family Stock Farm in Rico for a percentage of the relief and the city of St. Cloud and everyone re- Washington County, and the Kreitlow rescue help they are receiving today. sponsible for the city’s water supply. and Ford family from Wright County. Puerto Rico is broke, and they cannot A NATIONAL AWARD FOR A LOCAL BUS DRIVER Farming is not just a profession for borrow because the government—our Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise these families, it is a way of life. Their Federal Government—has said it can- today to congratulate St. Cloud Metro hard work and the hard work of fami- not. This Congress has said it cannot. Bus driver Todd DeZurik for his first lies like them make agriculture one of So they can’t set their own budget and place finish at the 2017 National Com- the primary drivers of Minnesota’s spending priorities, which have all been munity Transit Roadeo, which was re- economy. taken away from them. cently held in Detroit, Michigan. This Congratulations to the 2017 Min- So the U.S. Government should start competition gives drivers from all over nesota Farm Families. Thank you so by waiving those cost-sharing require- the Nation the chance to take part in much for everything you do. ments and suspend the Jones Act per- a little healthy competition and ex- f manently or for a substantial period— hibit their talent by driving through a at least a decade—to help in the recov- timed obstacle course that imitates b 1030 ery. Since it was imposed on Puerto real-life situations and difficult sce- DEFEND, DENOUNCE, AND Rico, the Jones Act has cost the Puerto narios that can occur on the road. ANNOUNCE Rican consumers more than all the Todd has participated in this com- money owed to Wall Street and the petition before, taking third place last The SPEAKER pro tempore. The debt, yet the President reminds us of year and second place in 2012. This year Chair recognizes the gentleman from the debt. was Todd’s year, as he took first place Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) for 5 minutes. Let the ships flow as quickly and as against 82 other drivers. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- cheaply from wherever they may come Congratulations, Todd. I am glad to er, I rise today and stand at the po- because this is an emergency. Let’s be know we have skilled drivers like you dium designated for Republicans, but I clear: with or without hurricanes, the on our roads safely transporting the rise not as a Democrat or a Republican. electrical grid, the roads, ports, public members of our community. Keep up I rise today, Mr. Speaker, not as a Lib- safety, and public health system are the great work. eral or a Conservative. close to collapsing. So this emergency A MINNESOTA SOLDIER, RETURNING HOME Mr. Speaker, I rise today as a proud can not just be treated by Congress, Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise American: a person who believes in his the President, FEMA, and other agen- today to recognize one of Minnesota’s country, who salutes the flag, says the cies as just another storm. finest military families who fought Pledge of Allegiance, and sings the na- Mr. Speaker, I have asked the Speak- during our Nation’s darkest hour. I tional anthem. er of the House and the Democratic would especially like to remember one I rise today, Mr. Speaker, to make leader to form a delegation and send family member who made the ultimate comments that I never thought I would Members to Puerto Rico so they can sacrifice and who, after more than a have to make in the well of the House see for themselves how dire things are. half century, will finally be returned of Congress. I rise today to defend, de- I am leaving on Friday to go there, and and laid to rest in his beloved home nounce, and announce. I am hoping other Members will join State. Mr. Speaker, I rise to defend any me. I have family who needs help, so I Quentin, Earl, and Harold Gifford all mother who has been called a dog be- am headed there to do what I can do. bravely served our Nation during World cause her son engaged in peaceful pro- But, most importantly, I am com- War II. While Earl and Harold made it test. I rise, Mr. Speaker. mitted to shining a spotlight on the home safely, Quentin, who served on I rise today, Mr. Speaker, to defend people of Puerto Rico so that they are the USS Oklahoma, died in the attack any son who is called the son of a dog neither out of sight nor out of our on Pearl Harbor. because he engaged in peaceful protest. minds. We need to make them the pri- For 75 years, Quentin remained in I rise, Mr. Speaker. ority in this moment of great need and the National Memorial Cemetery of the Mr. Speaker, I rise to denounce these in this moment of national disaster. Pacific, until this year, when his re- comments that have been made because they have brought discourse to a f mains were finally identified. The identification of Quentin has brought relief new low. Mr. Speaker, this is a level of MAKING CLEAN WATER A TOP and closure to his family, who never indecency that is unbecoming of the PRIORITY forgot the brother they lost. The Gif- Presidency. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The fords are happy to have the chance to Mr. Speaker, I rise to say to the Chair recognizes the gentleman from give Quentin the memorial he deserves. world that this is not what America is Minnesota (Mr. EMMER) for 5 minutes. Mr. Speaker, I speak for all Minneso- all about: calling people SOBs. We Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise tans when I say we are happy to finally know what a ‘‘B’’ is. It is a dog. today to recognize the city of St. Cloud welcome home a hero like Quentin. Mr. Speaker, I rise because my heart for taking care of our community’s 2017 MINNESOTA FARM FAMILIES tells me that I must do something. drinking water. Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. Speaker, I denounce the com- St. Cloud’s safe drinking water comes today to celebrate the hardworking ments that were made, and I rise to an- from the mighty Mississippi, and its folks from my district who have been nounce that next week I will bring a pure form is thanks to projects like the selected as this year’s Minnesota Farm privileged resolution before the Con- Northwest Regional Treatment Sys- Families. gress of the United States of America.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:54 Sep 26, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.006 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7493 I will stand here in the well of the Con- ments that North Korea has been al- Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee. Mr. gress, and I will call for the impeach- lowed to achieve in recent years pose a Speaker, I rise today to honor a very ment of the President of the United very serious threat to our Nation, our good friend of mine, Lewis Donelson of States of America. allies, and the international commu- Memphis, Tennessee. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- nity overall. That is why we must This October, ‘‘Lewie,’’ as most call bers are reminded to refrain from en- stand firm now and be prepared to do him, is turning 100 years old, and I can- gaging in personalities toward the whatever is necessary to protect our not be more proud to celebrate with President. national security and that of our allies, him. f including military action. Lewie is a brilliant lawyer who has I am proud that Congress is doing its practiced law for almost 70 years. He ESCALATING THREAT FROM part to support the Trump administra- founded one of our Nation’s largest law NORTH KOREA tion’s efforts to counter the North Ko- firms with Senator Howard Baker, now The SPEAKER pro tempore. The rean threat, including passing sanc- called Baker Donelson. But Lewie’s im- Chair recognizes the gentleman from tions legislation that was enacted into pact extends far beyond his legal ac- Kentucky (Mr. COMER) for 5 minutes. law in August; and the North Korean complishments. Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Human Rights Reauthorization Act, Lewie was one of the founders of the today to speak about an issue that my which passed the House yesterday. Shelby Republican Party, and he was constituents in the First District of We must continue to stand united, instrumental in building the party Kentucky are following closely: the es- both as a country and with our inter- throughout the entire State of Ten- calating threat from North Korea. national partners, to send a clear mes- nessee. In 1968, Lewie helped establish The world has watched as the North sage to North Korea that its hostile be- the very first Memphis City Council at Korean dictator, Kim Jong-un, has havior must end and that it must never the height of the civil rights movement built up his country’s nuclear weapons be allowed to threaten the world with and played a significant role in resolv- and ballistic missiles programs over nuclear weapons. ing the sanitation strike led by Dr. the past several years. f Martin Luther King, Jr. He led the Just this month, North Korea con- charge for peaceful integration and ducted its sixth nuclear test—the larg- EVERY PERSON COUNTS legal equality in Memphis. est one yet. This followed a series of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Lewie served as Tennessee’s commis- missile tests that led U.S. intelligence Chair recognizes the gentleman from sioner of finance for then-Governor analysts to conclude that the Kim re- Massachusetts (Mr. KENNEDY) for 5 LAMAR ALEXANDER. He was chairman of gime is on the verge of developing a re- minutes. the Board of The Med in Memphis and liable intercontinental missile capable Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. Speaker, in this served on the board of St. Jude Chil- of carrying a nuclear weapon, a feat country, we do not retreat. We may dren’s Research Hospital, also in Mem- that officials previously did not expect stumble and we may struggle, but we phis. Amazingly, through all of this, would be possible for several more press on. Time and again, our greatest Lewie taught his Sunday school class years. challenges have delivered our crowning at Idlewild Presbyterian for more than Clearly, this rogue state is moving achievements: the New Deal, the 19th 60 years. full steam ahead toward its goal of be- Amendment, the GI Bill, the Civil Lewie is a visionary and a leader. He coming a nuclear power that cannot Rights Act, and marriage equality. is bold and not afraid to do the right only threaten our allies and territories The tougher the moment, the more thing. Roberta and I are so glad to call in the region, but also the American we demand of ourselves; the bigger and Lewie our friend, and we cannot wait mainland. bolder we demand to dream for a fairer, to celebrate his 100 remarkable years. I have the utmost confidence in our more just nation, for an America where f military leaders, and I trust Secretary every person counts, where every voice Mattis when he says that our existing matters, where we are all treated with HEALTHCARE ON THE CHOPPING missile defense systems have what it a decency and a dignity that we de- BLOCK takes to keep our country safe from serve, where every American family The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the North Korean threat. The Amer- has access to quality, affordable, acces- Chair recognizes the gentleman from ican people can feel safe and secure, sible healthcare. California (Mr. RUIZ) for 5 minutes. knowing that our military is pro- Right now, this week, we must fight Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, the Graham- tecting them and that their Represent- harder than before to say: Not this bill, Cassidy bill is the worst version of atives in Congress, like myself, are not this time. Not this cop-out, not TrumpCare yet. ready to provide whatever funding is this retreat, not this white flag. By block granting healthcare, this needed to support the development and The latest version of TrumpCare is bill puts healthcare on the chopping deployment of missile defense tech- an admission that the wealthiest Na- block. In order to make ends meet, nology, both now and in the future. tion on Earth will not, by choice, care States will have to change their eligi- That being said, it is simply unac- for all its citizens; that a child in bility criteria, meaning millions more ceptable to allow a leader like Kim Texas or Massachusetts with pediatric left uninsured. They will have to cut Jong-un, who shows no regard for cancer deserves treatment, but not certain benefits and expensive coverage international norms or human rights, both; that a grandmother in Maine or like perhaps cancer treatment or that to gain valuable leverage and deterrent Oklahoma deserves long-term care, but extra stay in the hospital. They will capability as a nuclear-armed state. not both; that a young man in Georgia have to reduce reimbursements for hos- I was encouraged to hear our Com- or West Virginia suffering from sub- pitals, clinics, and doctors. mander in Chief speak out forcefully stance use disorder can be treated, but That is a big, disproportionate cut to against the ‘‘forces of destruction’’ not both. those healthcare providers, especially that are gathering power in our world This version of TrumpCare, worse in rural and underserved communities. in his address to the United Nations than those before it, pits State against This means that millions more will be last week. President Trump has made State, American against American. uninsured and hardworking families it clear to North Korea that It is up to every single one of us here will be forced to pay more out of pock- denuclearization is the only path for- today to say: Not this—not in my coun- et for healthcare. ward, and he has successfully mobilized try, not on our watch. In our Nation, This also means that patients with the international community to im- every person counts. preexisting conditions will be priced pose strong sanctions that will help de- f out of their healthcare and pay more prive the Kim regime of the resources out of pocket for higher premiums and it needs to continue its rush to nuclear HONORING LEWIS DONELSON higher deductibles. They will have to weapons. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The pay for needed care that will no longer This is a critical step forward, but Chair recognizes the gentleman from be guaranteed coverage under essential make no mistake: the nuclear advance- Tennessee (Mr. KUSTOFF) for 5 minutes. healthcare benefits. Furthermore,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:54 Sep 26, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.008 H26SEPT1 H7494 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 older Americans will be faced with pay- us to greater respond to emergencies any of those. Colin Kaepernick’s kneeling higher premiums under the bill’s and needs of the community. In addi- ing in the early months past was no age tax. tion, he implemented the smart meter disrespect of his love of this country, We cannot let this bill become law. to modernize the area’s outage alerts. but a recognition that people were We cannot allow patients, families, We thank Wayne Marshfield for his hurting and people were losing their seniors, and those who have diabetes indispensable 50 years of service at the lives, and we needed to reform systems and chronic illnesses like asthma, Delaware County Electric Cooperative, of justice to be able to respond to the COPD, or obesity to be left to fend for and also his 20 years-plus service as grieving mothers who lost children, in themselves. That is not the America Hamden’s town supervisor. Wayne has many instances—I would say all the in- that we know. That is not the values always gone above and beyond to en- stances—that we can recall of the re- that we share. sure affordable and reliable power to cent 2 years, unnecessarily. We don’t believe that healthcare is a our local homes and businesses. It did not mean that we did not have, commodity only for those that can af- Mr. Speaker, I salute Wayne again, the greatest respect for our men ford it. Those who can’t afford Marshfield. and women in blue. I will take no back- healthcare will have to fend for them- NORTHERN COLUMBIA LIONS CLUB 70TH seat to my honoring them, fighting for selves, simply because they can’t afford ANNIVERSARY them, working alongside them during it. We believe that we all have a re- Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Hurricane Harvey, thanking them for sponsibility for health as a common to congratulate the Northern Columbia the first responders and enormous good, with a social responsibility to Lions Club, which will soon celebrate work they did, working alongside them make sure that our neighbors and our its 70th anniversary on September 30 of as we rescued a group of individuals in communities are well, that our neigh- this year. a church who have fled for their lives bors’ kids are free from infections that Based in Valatie, New York, this during Hurricane Harvey. can spread to other kids. That is why Lions Club International post has a We must understand each other as we have strong vaccination programs. long history of extending a helping people, and it is unfortunate that the Health is, fundamentally, a human hand to neighbors in need. Its members Commander in Chief has taken to a dis- right. The rest of the world sees it that practice charitable leadership, living traction that wants to peel away our way, so why not America, the leaders out the Lions Club motto: ‘‘Where unity and report in the news: They like of our globe. We must and we can do there’s a need, there’s a Lion.’’ it, don’t they? He is really, working for better. This year alone, the Northern Colum- his base. To my Republican colleagues, I know bia Lions Club has hosted vision I don’t know anything about a base. that passing a bill is important politi- screening tests for preschoolers, held a I know about Americans. I see them all cally because you campaigned on this successful eyeglass drive for people in the time, and they don’t look like me. for the past 8 years. I understand that underdeveloped countries, refurbished They disagree with me. They have dif- you have a lot of pressures from do- benches in Chatham’s Callan Memorial ferent opinions. I still respect that nors. Just think about patients. Do the Park, and awarded scholarships to opinion, but I do believe that we can right thing. Put politics aside. local college-bound students. all come together. Let’s heed the words of Senator I thank our past and present mem- That knee was in respect of Colin and MCCAIN. Let’s come back to regular bers of the Northern Columbia Lions the young men who have now success- order. Let’s figure out what we can do Club for their 70 years of dedication to fully taken to their knees, and the together to fix and improve on the Af- a better Columbia County and a better owners. Yes, I know that what they fordable Care Act to bring down pre- world. have done does not feed people; does miums and bring down the cost of f not work on your retirement; does not healthcare and medicines and make get us something better than the Gra- KNEELING IN RECOGNITION OF ham-Cassidy bill, which will destroy sure that we expand coverage to more THE GLORY OF OUR NATION people and not take away coverage for and undermine healthcare for millions millions of people. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The of Americans, those with preexisting Let’s put people above partisanship. Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from diseases, those who suffer from the Let’s put solutions above ideology. Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE) for 5 minutes. lack of income, and those who need Let’s do the right thing. Let’s come to- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, good healthcare—the very promise that gether and help pragmatically improve last evening, I took to kneeling on this was made by the President and all of us healthcare for millions of Americans. floor in recognition, first of all, of the as Members of Congress that there glory of this Nation, the pride that I should be some structure. f have in representing the Nation in far- There is no structure in the Graham- CONGRATULATING WAYNE away places as a Member of Congress, Cassidy bill. All it does is throw it over MARSHFIELD ON HIS RETIREMENT and visiting heads of states, and vis- to the State and say: If you don’t have The SPEAKER pro tempore. The iting with the people of other countries the money, forget about it. Don’t Chair recognizes the gentleman from who have such an admiration for the worry about them. Take the money New York (Mr. FASO) for 5 minutes. purity of our freedom. and give tax cuts to the rich. Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, today, I rise I also take great pride in Texas being That is not the American way. to recognize the commitment and dedi- a State that is home to any number of I rise today to say that I remain on cation of Wayne Marshfield, who just military bases and reservists and Ac- bended knee in spirit with all of those recently retired after 50 years of hard tive Duty and veterans. We interact all young men. I look forward to working work with the Delaware County Elec- the time. Our military liaison in my of- with the NFL and all the sports as we tric Cooperative. fice is a veteran of the Iraq and Afghan explain that these young men are vital Over the course of his career, Wayne wars. parts of the community. Thank you to has supported the Cooperative’s central There is no lacking in sense of pride, J.J. Watt and the Texans and all of mission of providing reliable and af- and not one of us remembers missing those who have contributed. fordable energy services to families the national anthem and the Pledge of HUMANITARIAN CRISIS IN PUERTO RICO throughout its entire service area. Allegiance as children growing up in Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, our daily activities as we went to now, what is the most important mes- 1045 b school. But I also have come to under- sage? Wayne’s leadership and penchant for stand what those symbols mean. They My people are suffering—and my con- innovation have significantly enhanced are not just cloth or music. They, in stituents—still in Texas. They are suf- the Cooperative’s operations in our up- fact, represent ideals and values, and fering in Florida. They are suffering state communities. For example, many people interpret them in dif- now extraordinarily in the U.S. Virgin Wayne developed the service location ferent ways. Islands and Puerto Rico. system, which greatly improved his I abhor spitting or burning or de- Your eyes should burn and your company’s service mapping, allowing stroying of the flag. I have not done hearts should be struck by the absolute

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:54 Sep 26, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.009 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7495 humanitarian crisis in Puerto Rico. As some particular grievance. They indict legislation that came out of the Senate I listened to my colleagues this morn- our country, our servicemembers, our by a vote of 68–13. Prior to that, I sup- ing as I was coming to this floor al- first responders, our Founding Fathers, ported President Bush’s efforts and, ready on these issues, they pierced my and the principles that made this coun- more recently, President Obama’s ef- heart even more because Puerto Rico is try great. forts; but, unfortunately, we have not under water. The disease is rising. Peo- But, see, this freedom that we enjoy been successful through these efforts. ple with medicine are losing it because also includes the freedom of speech, That is why today I think we need to they do not have refrigeration, yet the the right of our citizens to express be focusing on at least one segment idle talk and idle hands of the adminis- themselves even when we find that ex- that would have been addressed if, in tration are, in fact, not doing anything pression offensive. It is a fundamental fact, we fix this broken immigration sufficient enough to save those lives. constitutional right, yet nowhere in system. And that is those DREAMers, I, too, have people in my district who the Constitution does it say that hard- those young people covered under the are unhoused, but I am here because we working Americans have to subsidize Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals are unified, and we must be able to or create special carve-outs and exemp- program that was initiated by Presi- speak about the whole of America. I tions for conduct that they find unpa- dent Obama that is now going to ex- have been to Puerto Rico on a number triotic. pire. of issues. I know the leadership of the Unfortunately, today, the Tax Code These people came here at the aver- former Congressperson, and I believe gives special breaks to sports leagues. age age of 6 years. Most of them don’t that it is high time—if this is water Some swamp creature of yesteryear know the country they came from. that Hurricane Harvey was, imagine cleverly defined sports leagues as tax- Most of them consider themselves, in the disease of being hit by 155 miles per exempt trade organizations. essence, Americans. They are going to hour. It is now time to put a military The public pays 70 percent of the cost school. They are in our military serv- czar in Puerto Rico. of NFL stadiums. Tax-exempt sports ice. They are serving in many different The SPEAKER pro tempore. The leagues generate $2 billion in revenue, ways. They have jobs. They are part of time of the gentlewoman has expired. yet the Tax Code gives them special families in which some are here legally Ms. JACKSON LEE. Send the C–130s, treatment, gives them a special break and some are not. You are talking send the ships, help these people be res- that small businesses in my district about breaking up families. cued. This is a disgrace. I am talking don’t get. That is unfair. Yesterday I signed a discharge peti- about foolishness. Be a leader and be It is outrageous that we take money tion to bring to the House floor the bi- the Commander in Chief and stop all of away from hardworking Americans to partisan, bicameral Dream Act, which this. subsidize professional sports at all. The will permanently protect these When are we going to get the kind of return on investment is negative. I DREAMers by offering them a path to leader that is deserving of the Amer- have heard these arguments in my earned citizenship, not amnesty. ican people? home State of Florida: Oh, these sports I will continue to do everything in The SPEAKER pro tempore. The clubs create jobs and revenue and eco- my power to bring the Dream Act to time of the gentlewoman has expired. nomic activity. the House floor for a vote and to work Ms. JACKSON LEE. I am sick and Look, every economic analysis then, after that, for comprehensive im- tired of it. I want a President. I do not showed that this is a negative return migration reform, which is what we want the person that fools around on investment, a loser for taxpayers, really need to do so that we don’t keep while people are dying. and corporate welfare at its worst. up ending back here like a continued The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- The Internal Revenue Code must be broken record. tlewoman is no longer recognized. amended to remove the tax-exempt I want our DREAMers to know that Ms. JACKSON LEE. * * * status for professional sports leagues many of us in Washington and across The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- permanently. I am glad that the NFL the Nation stand with them. The over- bers are reminded to refrain from en- voluntarily gave up their status, but whelming majority of Americans be- gaging in personalities toward the we should make this change permanent lieve that we ought to fix this. And I President. and we should make it the law. hope, before the end of this year, in a f In the coming days and weeks, we bipartisan fashion, we will do just that. will be discussing tax relief to lift up REMOVE TAX-EXEMPT STATUS OF CONGRATULATING SLOANE STEPHENS WINNING the middle class. I support whole-scale, U.S. OPEN IN TENNIS PROFESSIONAL SPORTS LEAGUES bold, conservative tax reform; but we Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, about a The SPEAKER pro tempore. The have an opportunity in this tax bill to month ago, we had the United States Chair recognizes the gentleman from send an even more profound message: tennis championship, and I would be Florida (Mr. GAETZ) for 5 minutes. In America, if you want to play sports, remiss if I didn’t congratulate Sloane Mr. GAETZ. Mr. Speaker, I cannot you are free to do so. You are also free Stephens on her winning the U.S. Open believe what I just heard on this floor. to protest. You are welcome to do both, in tennis earlier. Kneeling as a sign of respect? but you should do it on your own time b 1100 I don’t recall my Democratic col- and on your own dime. leagues kneeling when former Presi- f Many of you may not realize, but she dent Obama would come to address this came from the San Joaquin Valley, body. They stood as a sign of respect. DREAM ACT from the area that I represent in Cali- That is what we do in this country, Re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The fornia, and we are proud of her. She publicans and Democrats, for our flag, Chair recognizes the gentleman from did, after all, start playing her tennis for our anthem. California (Mr. COSTA) for 5 minutes. in Fresno, where she lived until she That is why I joined so many Ameri- Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today was 10 years old. cans in anger and disgust when I saw to speak about three issues that are But her win makes many of us in NFL players, multimillionaires, kneel- very important to my district and the America proud, as she showed the ing during the national anthem, and it Nation. world a level of hard work, determina- is such an overgeneralized indictment. First, I want to talk about the immi- tion, and grit rarely seen on the tennis If people have a problem with police gration policy or the lack of an immi- court. Ms. Stephens had to fight her brutality or the criminal justice sys- gration policy that we have in this way back to the court after a stress tem, there are venues for discussion, country; a, in essence, broken immi- fracture and surgery in January that even for protest that highlight and iso- gration system. took her out of training and com- late those issues for an adult in a re- For years I have been saying that we pletely off of her feet and off of the ten- sponsible discussion. need to fix it, and we need to do that in nis court. When people kneel during our na- a bipartisan way because it is the only And then she came back—and, wow, tional anthem, they don’t simply in- way we are going to be successful. I did she come back—to beat the world’s dict the issue with which they take supported bipartisan efforts in 2013, the best, including one of her heroines,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:35 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.012 H26SEPT1 H7496 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 Venus Williams, to become the Wom- resents their interests. They are tired ways think about how the process of en’s Singles U.S. Open champion. We of elected officials being seduced by the creating policy could be better, not are so proud of you. trappings of their office, forgetting the just fixing the policies at the end of the I also want to thank Ms. Stephens for reason they were sent to this hallowed line, because no one would run a manu- all that she has done in the valley be- Chamber. Ultimately, the American facturing business where you have a cause she has never forgotten where people have seen that many Members process and then you just fix the widg- she came from, where her mother vote in consideration of sometimes in- ets at the end of the line. But, instead, raised her, contributing to the tennis terests that are divergent from theirs they would focus on how we manufac- programs at Edison-Bethune Charter back home. ture policy in a better way. Academy in Fresno, which introduces Since I first entered public life, I The American people and Hoosiers young children to the sport of tennis, have been a vocal proponent of term back home have said how they think and also to help expand tennis pro- limits. I believe that in order for this we could manufacture policy in a bet- grams at other local elementary and body to truly serve the people back ter way. They have said that they want middle schools throughout the Fresno home, the hardworking Hoosiers every to see terms limits legislation passed County Office of Education. A real day trying to make ends meet, that so that the manufacturers of policy shout-out for Sloane Stephens and the they need to be responsive to those will reflect their values, will reflect incredible accomplishment at this people, they need to listen to those their concerns, and will reflect what year’s United States tennis champion- people, and, ultimately, they need to they live, breathe, and feel every single ship for the United States Open. Con- relate to those people. day. gratulations. Yet, the American people are not the What I hear, when I go back home CELEBRATING CALIFORNIA’S WINE INDUSTRY only ones calling for term limits. As we and travel my district every single Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, lastly, I all can remember, President Trump weekend, is that Washington, D.C., has would like to turn to something that crisscrossed this great Nation, sharing become flooded with self-interests— has been important not only in Cali- his vision on how he could make Amer- self-interests that drive the boat for- fornia, but across the country and ica great again. He agreed with the ward instead of American interests around the world, and it also puts chorus of American voices that were propelling us forward into better and smiles on people’s faces. calling for term limit legislation for better policy. For over 250 years, California has the United States Congress. I support I think the quickest way to correct been producing the best wine, I think, President Trump’s agenda in term lim- that failure here in D.C. is to consider in the world. California is the fourth its. and pass term limits. When 74 percent largest producer of wine. This is, in Mr. Speaker, I have heard the voices of Americans agree—that is not 74 per- large part, due to a lot of hard work, of Hoosiers back home who desperately cent of one side of the aisle or 74 per- innovation, and craftsmanship of the wish to see this legislation passed, who cent of the other side of the aisle, but State’s 4,700 vintners and almost 6,000 desperately want to see their Rep- that is 74 percent of Americans agree growers. They make a difference every resentatives representing their inter- on something—then I think in a de- day, and they do it not before its time. ests and their values. That is why, as mocracy that something should get Roughly 24 million people visit Cali- one of my first actions as a Member of done. fornia’s wine regions each year, mak- this body, I wrote legislation that The Framers of our Constitution did ing our State the most visited State would sponsor a constitutional amend- not intend for Members of this body to for food- and wine-related activities. ment levying term limits on Members remain seated for 20, 30, 40, or even 50 We are, after all, the number one agri- of Congress. years, but rather they fundamentally cultural State in the Nation, not only Additionally, I have cosponsored believe that government should be de- in wine production, but half of the Na- every piece of term limits legislation signed, one of the people and for the tion’s fruits and vegetables, number that reflects actual term limits that is people, to experience regular turnover. one in citrus production, number one available in this body. Ultimately, the greatness of this coun- in milk production, number one in al- Furthermore, I so strongly believe in try has always rooted in the American monds and pistachios, and the list goes this issue that I went door to door dur- people themselves, and I want to get on and on and on. ing the course of my campaign handing more of those American people up here So as we near the end of California out term limits pledges that I would serving in elected office. sign personally at the over 15,000 doors Wine Month this year, I would like to f take a moment to celebrate our vint- that I have knocked on during the ners, growers, farm workers—without course of my elected official office. I RECESS the farm workers, we couldn’t make have continued to sign those term lim- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- this wine possible—and all those who its, talking to each one about how we ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair contribute to this industry that pro- can ensure that their interests and declares the House in recess until noon vides healthy food as a part of a their values are fully represented here. today. healthy diet that we all deserve and Now, the positions that we hold here Accordingly (at 11 o’clock and 8 min- enjoy. in this Chamber are not bequeathed to utes a.m.), the House stood in recess. f us by status, by lineage, or by heritage, but, rather, the positions we hold— f TERM LIMITS every single one of us—are based on the b 1200 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ideas that we presented to the Amer- AFTER RECESS Chair recognizes the gentleman from ican public and based on the values Indiana (Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH) for 5 that the American public said they The recess having expired, the House minutes. wanted represented. was called to order by the Speaker pro Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH. Mr. Speaker, I want to make sure that we continue tempore (Mr. BOST) at noon. I rise today in support of legislation year in and year out to be responsive f that an overwhelming number of Amer- to those ideas and to be responsive to icans—75 percent, in fact—not only those values. Too frequently, I hear in PRAYER support but demand of this body. The my district that they feel like Wash- Reverend William Lynn Nash, Glad issue is term limits. The time is now. ington, D.C., has values that are incon- Tidings Pentecostal Church, Mangham, It has become more and more trans- sistent with theirs. That the toxic en- Louisiana, offered the following pray- parent to Hoosiers back home that this vironment they sometimes believe that er: city, and even sometimes this building, exists in Washington, D.C., hasn’t got- Our eternal God, may divine direc- no longer reflects the ideals, the mor- ten them the results that they have de- tion be upon the Members of the peo- als, and the values that they share in manded election after election. ple’s House. their communities. The people de- Now, I am an old business guy, a The psalmist pleaded for Thy saving manded representation that truly rep- manufacturing guy by trade, so I al- health among the nations. May the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:35 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.014 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7497 Representatives from Chicago to San In the 15 years since he founded his ture on an already volatile situation. Francisco, from New York to New Orle- church, Brother Nash has been active As everyone in this Chamber knows, a ans, O God, be granted the wisdom of in the community. He is the deputy conflict on the Korean Peninsula would Solomon and the strength of the great sheriff chaplain for Richland Sheriff’s be catastrophic. apostle Paul. Department. He was named an hon- Let me be clear: a war with North May the anointing of Thy Holy Ghost orary chaplain of the Louisiana Legis- Korea would put millions of lives at bless this body, from committee rooms lature in 2014. risk, and the threat of nuclear weapons where compromise is made, to this Brother Nash is a true country evan- only heightens tensions. Diplomacy is very floor, may grace and peace be- gelist and has been delivering sermons the only answer. However, President come our banner. since he was 15 years old. Mr. Speaker, Trump’s rhetoric has destabilized us Forgive us, O Lord, of backsliding. we appreciate the opportunity for him over our process and stopped it before Empty out our arrogance. Fill the to offer the prayer this morning, and it could even begin. Members of Congress with the very we thank him for all he has done for This administration needs to end the best of heavenly manna. Repair the Louisiana. name calling and saber rattling. Presi- breach, and may the House of Adams, f dent Trump must deescalate his rhet- Lincoln, and Rayburn become renewed oric before it is too late. Direct talks with the best fruits of labor. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER remain our best chance of resolving Lead this House to the mountaintop PRO TEMPORE this conflict peacefully. of victory today, so that 100 years from The SPEAKER pro tempore. The We must also remind the President this very day, it may be said: It was Chair will entertain up to 15 further re- that he does not possess the power to good to have been here. quests for 1-minute speeches on each declare war without congressional ap- I pray in the name of Jesus. side of the aisle. proval. It is up to Congress, not the Amen. f White House, to debate and vote on f military action. THE JOURNAL BOEING LEADERSHIP PROGRAM Congress must immediately vote on The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina Representative LIEU’s no first use bill, Chair has examined the Journal of the asked and was given permission to ad- H.R. 669, to prevent the President from last day’s proceedings and announces dress the House for 1 minute and to re- unilaterally authorizing a nuclear to the House his approval thereof. vise and extend his remarks.) strike. Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Mr. Speaker, it is clear to everyone nal stands approved. Speaker, this morning I was grateful to that there is no military solution to Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, pursu- join my fellow South Carolinian col- this crisis. ant to clause 1, rule I, I demand a vote leagues at the Boeing Leaders for the on agreeing to the Speaker’s approval Second Century program. This program f of the Journal. is dedicated to discussing leadership The SPEAKER pro tempore. The capabilities and better understanding HONORING ANGELA MCQUEEN, A question is on the Speaker’s approval public policy. TRUE HERO of the Journal. Boeing has brought thousands of jobs The question was taken; and the to South Carolina, and we are grateful (Mr. SHIMKUS asked and was given Speaker pro tempore announced that that they call us home. permission to address the House for 1 the ayes appeared to have it. Additionally, I am thankful for the minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, on that inspiring leadership of Charleston Vice marks.) I demand the yeas and nays. President and General Manager Joan Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise The yeas and nays were ordered. Robinson-Berry; Chairman, President, today to honor Angela McQueen, whose The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- and CEO Dennis Muilenburg; Vice actions saved the lives of Mattoon High ant to clause 8, rule XX, further pro- Chairman Raymond Conner; Executive School students after a student gun- ceedings on this question will be post- Vice President Leanne Caret, as well as man opened fire in the cafeteria. An- poned. all who have joined us this morning gela tackled the student, eventually f from worldwide operations. disarming and holding the assailant on PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE I appreciate Boeing suppliers cre- the ground until police arrived. ating jobs in the Second Congressional Angela taught math and physical The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the District. This includes: Zeus, located in education in Mattoon, Illinois, for over gentlewoman from California (Mrs. Orangeburg and Aiken; Prysmian of a decade. She is an Illinois native and DAVIS) come forward and lead the Lexington; Thermal Engineering of Co- graduated from Marshall High School, House in the Pledge of Allegiance. lumbia; and AGY of Aiken. where she was a standout high school Mrs. DAVIS of California led the When I think Boeing, I think jobs, basketball player. She then attended Pledge of Allegiance as follows: and I look forward to continuing to Eastern Illinois University, earning a I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the work to bring jobs to South Carolina. bachelor’s degree in mathematics and United States of America, and to the Repub- physical education and her master’s in lic for which it stands, one nation under God, Best wishes to the Boeing Company for indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. successfully creating more jobs in education administration. South Carolina. Angela became a teacher because she f In conclusion, God bless our troops, wanted a platform to be able to make WELCOMING REVEREND WILLIAM and we will never forget September the the world a better place. She is highly LYNN NASH 11th in the global war on terrorism. involved in the Mattoon community The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without f and is a member of B.I.O.N.I.C., Believe objection, the gentleman from Lou- It Or Not I Care teacher’s program, ENDING WAR OF WORDS WITH isiana (Mr. ABRAHAM) is recognized for founded in 2014 and funded by the Ro- NORTH KOREA 1 minute. tary Club. She is also part of the There was no objection. (Ms. LEE asked and was given per- school’s grief support research team. Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise mission to address the House for 1 I honor Angela McQueen’s dedication today to introduce Brother Bill Nash, a minute.) to her students’ safety and her coura- great friend who delivered the opening Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to geous actions in the face of adversity. prayer this morning, and what a prayer call for an end to the dangerous war of If she had not selflessly acted, the situ- it was. words between President Trump and ation could have been much worse. Brother Nash’s wife founded Glad North Korean officials. Mr. Speaker, Angela McQueen is a Tidings Pentecostal Church near my Provoking Kim will not make us any true hero and deserves nothing less home in Mangham, Louisiana. safer. It will only raise the tempera- than our highest admiration.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:35 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.016 H26SEPT1 H7498 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 PUERTO RICO AND THE VIRGIN Nearly every health organization in and, yes, we in this body can help ISLANDS ARE IN CRISIS America, from the insurance providers them. (Mr. SOTO asked and was given per- to doctors, to hospitals, to patient ad- By passing the bipartisan Dream Act, mission to address the House for 1 vocacy groups, oppose Graham-Cassidy we can help these young people. We minute and to revise and extend his re- because it will result in skyrocketing help them stay in their homes. We can marks.) premiums and copays and loss of cov- help them keep their jobs. We can help Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, first, to the erage for millions of Americans, par- them keep their families together. This President: Puerto Rico and the Virgin ticularly older Americans who need the is not a hard question to answer. Islands are in crisis. People are dying, care most. These are young people who grew up and the time for action is now. It is time to abandon the rhetoric of here that are as American as any one Send our ships. Send our planes. Send repeal and replace and to work to- of us in this room, and they aren’t ask- our soldiers and our personnel over. We gether to stabilize our healthcare mar- ing for much. Mr. Speaker, I am on the need water and food and medicine. kets. Senators MURRAY and ALEXANDER floor today to ask my colleagues on the These are Americans, and we can’t were working together on a bipartisan other side: Please help them. Join me turn our backs on them. bill to fix the ACA before the Repub- in supporting the bipartisan Dream To Mr. Speaker: We need a FEMA lican majority abandoned their efforts Act. supplemental package without delay, for Graham-Cassidy. f and include not only Texas and Flor- Mr. Speaker, I hope we return to bi- 1215 ida, but the Virgin Islands and Puerto partisan efforts as soon as possible to b Rico with the same funding per capita stabilize markets and improve access HIGHLIGHTING EFFECTIVE as the States. They need resources just to healthcare for all Americans. FOREST MANAGEMENT like our great State of Florida. f (Mr. GIANFORTE asked and was To the Governors in many States PREPARE FOR FUTURE NATURAL given permission to address the House from whom folks from Puerto Rico and DISASTERS for 1 minute and to revise and extend the Virgin Islands will seek refuge in (Mr. BILIRAKIS asked and was given his remarks.) the meantime: Be prepared—your Mr. GIANFORTE. Mr. Speaker, imag- schools, your hospitals, shelters. Fami- permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his re- ine if the entire State of Delaware lies in these areas, open your homes to burned. That is the scope of what has our friends and to your neighbors. marks.) Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise burned in Montana this year—1.25 mil- The United States Government must lion acres of our beautiful State. act with urgency beginning today. today to thank the first responders and utility workers, the linemen who have I have been on the ground at five f been vital in helping prepare for and fires this summer and I have seen first- PRESIDENT TAKES NEW recover from Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, hand the result of failing to manage DIRECTION and Maria. our forests—over 1 million acres have (Mr. SMITH of Texas asked and was The road to full recovery will be a burned, livelihoods threatened, wildlife given permission to address the House long one for many of us, our neighbors habitats destroyed, and dangerous air for 1 minute and to revise and extend as well, who experienced catastrophic quality in our communities. his remarks.) losses, and we must continue to sup- I have also seen effective forest man- Mr. SMITH of Texas. Mr. Speaker, port those in need. agement. Last week, I went into the the President is doing what he was I encourage my constituents to visit field with BLM officials to see a forest elected to do—call it shaking up the my Facebook page to learn more about they manage. When BLM treated a for- system, putting the brakes on the bu- FEMA resources. I also believe now is est, an approaching fire dropped into reaucracy, or creative deconstruction. the time to encourage all Americans to the underbrush and was quickly extin- Our country simply cannot continue be properly prepared for future natural guished. All trees in the treated forest on the same course: where the govern- disasters. lived, but trees in the untreated forest ment increases the debt by hundreds of I have introduced the SHELTER Act, died and it won’t recover in our life- billions of dollars every year; where which would provide individuals and time. hundreds of thousands of illegal immi- businesses with a tax credit for 25 per- We need to be proactive and start grants cross our border annually, in- cent of qualified hurricane and tornado managing our forests again. Well-man- sulting those who play by the rules and mitigation property expenditures. It is aged forests are healthier forests with wait their turn in line; where political $5,000 a year. So again, this tax credit, more wildlife, more hunting, more correctness limits freedom of speech, this bill will incentivize Americans to good-paying jobs for Montanans, and, especially for conservatives. take action now in preparation for fu- importantly, our wildfires are less se- The liberal media is trying to shut ture disasters. vere. down this Presidency because they op- Mr. Speaker, I urge passage. On the heels of the catastrophic fires pose everything President Trump is f this summer, now is the time to enact trying to do. Mr. Speaker, in this great real reform and start managing our HELP THE DREAMERS conflict, the American people and our forests again. democracy could be the casualties. (Mr. AGUILAR asked and was given f f permission to address the House for 1 minute.) PUERTO RICO RELIEF OPPOSE GRAHAM-CASSIDY Mr. AGUILAR. Mr. Speaker, last (Mrs. DAVIS of California asked and (Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas asked week, when I was home in my district, was given permission to address the and was given permission to address I hosted an event called DREAMers De- House for 1 minute.) the House for 1 minute and to revise mand Answers. It was an opportunity Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speak- and extend his remarks.) for DREAMers in my community to er, I received a heartfelt letter from a Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. come and have a conversation with me constituent expressing her frustration Speaker, I rise in support of the mil- in the wake of the President’s decision with the dire crisis in Puerto Rico. She lions of Americans whose health cov- to rescind DACA, to let me know what described the panic of not being able to erage is once again being threatened by questions and concerns they had so reach her family on the island. She efforts to repeal the Affordable Care that I could come back here and pass said: ‘‘It is becoming an island of chaos Act. those concerns along to my colleagues and sadness. I am helpless here in The American people have spoken. here in Congress. Chula Vista. I cannot contact my fam- They do not want repeal. They cer- Of all the questions, one really stood ily. We need Congress to send more re- tainly do not want the ACA replaced out to me: Can you help us? I was espe- lief. We Puerto Ricans are American by Graham-Cassidy, the latest, cruelest cially struck by this question because citizens, whether people remember it version of TrumpCare. the answer is yes. Yes, I can help them; or not.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:35 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.018 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7499 As we speak, Puerto Rico remains grounds and cultures come together as system needs work, and this week we without power, communication lines one people united by shared values. We will take the necessary first steps to- are down, and a major dam could burst. cherish our unity and diversity. In the wards fixing it. We are proud of how Americans came upcoming month, we will celebrate Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- together for Texas and Florida. Let’s Hispanic Americans’ patriotism and leagues to join in this effort to make not abandon Puerto Rico. We must act the traditions they add to American our system work for everyday Ameri- now. We are seeing a major humani- culture. cans, not special interests. tarian crisis unfold on U.S. soil. Mr. Speaker, please join me in hon- f Mr. Speaker, is there any reason why oring National Hispanic Heritage U.S. citizens are being ignored in these Month. COMMUNICATION FROM THE times of desperate need? f CLERK OF THE HOUSE We must help Puerto Rico now. CENTRAL ARKANSAS VETERANS The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- f HEALTHCARE SYSTEM HELPS fore the House the following commu- THE GREAT LAKES RESTORATION HOUSTON nication from the Clerk of the House of Representatives: INITIATIVE (Mr. HILL asked and was given per- OFFICE OF THE CLERK, (Mr. MOOLENAAR asked and was mission to address the House for 1 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, given permission to address the House minute and to revise and extend his re- Washington, DC, September 26, 2017. for 1 minute and to revise and extend marks.) Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, his remarks.) Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, over the past The Speaker, House of Representatives, Mr. MOOLENAAR. Mr. Speaker, I few weeks we have seen the unity, Washington, DC. come to the floor today to thank all of courage, and kindness the American DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the per- the Members who voted to support the people offered to those affected by the mission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of Great Lakes Restoration Initiative. destruction caused by Hurricanes Har- the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- tives, the Clerk received the following mes- In the appropriations legislation the vey, Irma, and now Maria. sage from the Secretary of the Senate on House passed 2 weeks ago, we included Today I would like to take a minute September 26, 2017, at 11:43 a.m.: $300 million in the fiscal year 2018 and acknowledge the Central Arkansas That the Senate passed with an amend- budget for protecting our Great Lakes. Veterans Healthcare System in Little ment H.R. 2810. The Great Lakes are a critical re- Rock, where employees extended help With best wishes, I am source and an essential part of Michi- to assist with incoming calls from the Sincerely, gan’s outdoor heritage. They are en- VA in Houston, Texas. All calls were KAREN L. HAAS. joyed by millions of Americans from forwarded to Arkansas during the relief f across the country, and they are a efforts. unique ecosystem with one-fifth of the While the Little Rock VA usually PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION world’s freshwater. They are also a takes in 200 to 300 calls a day, in the OF H.R. 2824, INCREASING OPPOR- major trade route and they form an days following the aftermath of Hurri- TUNITY AND SUCCESS FOR CHIL- international border. cane Harvey, our VA team in Little DREN AND PARENTS THROUGH There is a Federal role for protecting Rock averaged 2,900 calls a day from EVIDENCE-BASED HOME VIS- the Great Lakes, and by working with those seeking refuge and help. Employ- ITING ACT; PROVIDING FOR CON- public and private organizations like ees worked 8-hour shifts to provide 24/ SIDERATION OF H.R. 2792, CON- Michigan’s universities and Ducks Un- 7 service. TROL UNLAWFUL FUGITIVE FEL- limited, the GLRI does vital work to I thank these Arkansans in the Cen- ONS ACT OF 2017; AND FOR protect the Great Lakes and the tral Arkansas VA for helping our OTHER PURPOSES streams, rivers, and wetlands that flow neighbors in Texas in their time of Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, by di- into them. need. rection of the Committee on Rules, I Again, I want to thank all of my col- f call up House Resolution 533 and ask leagues for their support of this crit- for its immediate consideration. TAX REFORM ical program. The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- f (Mr. LAHOOD asked and was given lows: permission to address the House for 1 H. RES. 533 NATIONAL HISPANIC HERITAGE minute and to revise and extend his re- MONTH Resolved, That at any time after adoption marks.) of this resolution the Speaker may, pursuant (Mr. NEWHOUSE asked and was Mr. LAHOOD. Mr. Speaker, over the to clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the given permission to address the House past three decades, our Federal Tax House resolved into the Committee of the for 1 minute and to revise and extend Code has ballooned to 74,000 pages filled Whole House on the state of the Union for his remarks.) with loopholes for special interests. consideration of the bill (H.R. 2824) to amend Mr. NEWHOUSE. Mr. Speaker, I rise Moreover, the Federal tax system has title V of the Social Security Act to extend today to recognize National Hispanic become too complicated for hard- the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program. The first reading of Heritage Month. Each year, Americans working taxpayers to navigate alone. the bill shall be dispensed with. All points of observe National Hispanic Heritage Since joining Congress, I have trav- order against consideration of the bill are Month from September 15 to October 15 eled all across my district meeting waived. General debate shall be confined to to celebrate the contributions of Amer- with people and businesses who have the bill and shall not exceed one hour equal- icans of Hispanic descent to our Na- all made it clear that our current tax ly divided and controlled by the chair and tion’s diverse history and culture. system needs change. Small businesses ranking minority member of the Committee Our central Washington communities like Vaughan & Bushnell Manufac- on Ways and Means. After general debate the are blessed to include a growing num- turing in Bushnell, Illinois, want a bill shall be considered for amendment under the five-minute rule. In lieu of the amend- ber of Hispanic Americans, and I have simpler Tax Code that lowers rates and ment in the nature of a substitute rec- witnessed firsthand the many ways closes loopholes so they can invest in ommended by the Committee on Ways and Hispanic Americans strengthen our innovation, higher wages, and more Means now printed in the bill, it shall be in communities and our way of life. His- jobs. order to consider as an original bill for the panic Americans have greatly contrib- Middle class families across Illinois purpose of amendment under the five-minute uted to our country’s history. These have told me how a simpler Tax Code rule an amendment in the nature of a sub- Americans have enhanced our economy would mean more money in their pock- stitute consisting of the text of Rules Com- through entrepreneurship, and many ets to save and spend. Earlier this year, mittee Print 115-33. That amendment in the nature of a substitute shall be considered as have served our Nation honorably in it was estimated that our House blue- read. All points of order against that amend- the U.S. Armed Forces. print for tax reform would save the me- ment in the nature of a substitute are America is truly the world’s melting dian Illinois family over $5,000 in taxes waived. No amendment to that amendment pot where people of diverse back- every year. We can all agree that our in the nature of a substitute shall be in order

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:35 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.020 H26SEPT1 H7500 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 except those printed in the report of the For the first bill, H.R. 2792, the Con- This legislation would not punish in- Committee on Rules accompanying this res- trol Unlawful Fugitive Felons Act of dividuals convicted of a misdemeanor, olution. Each such amendment may be of- 2017, the rule provides for 1 hour of de- such as outstanding parking tickets. In fered only in the order printed in the report, bate equally divided and controlled by may be offered only by a Member designated fact, some people have falsely claimed in the report, shall be considered as read, the chair and ranking member of the that. shall be debatable for the time specified in Committee on Ways and Means. The Individuals who have potentially the report equally divided and controlled by rule waives all points of order and committed a felony or a parole viola- the proponent and an opponent, shall not be makes in order no further amendments tion should not be able to use taxpayer subject to amendment, and shall not be sub- to the legislation. However, the minor- dollars to evade capture. Providing the ject to a demand for division of the question ity is afforded the customary motion Social Security Administration with in the House or in the Committee of the to recommit. Whole. All points of order against such For H.R. 2824, the Increasing Oppor- the tools in H.R. 2792 is a commonsense amendments are waived. At the conclusion tunity and Success for Children and way to show that the Federal Govern- of consideration of the bill for amendment Parents through Evidence-Based Home ment is sincere in its commitment to the Committee shall rise and report the bill being a good steward of Federal tax- to the House with such amendments as may Visiting Act, the rule provides for 1 have been adopted. Any Member may de- hour of debate equally divided between payer dollars. The Social Security ben- mand a separate vote in the House on any the chair and ranking member of the efits can be restored once the indi- amendment adopted in the Committee of the Committee on Ways and Means. The vidual resolves the outstanding issues Whole to the bill or to the amendment in the Rules Committee made in order four related to his or her warrant or parole nature of a substitute made in order as origi- amendments to H.R. 2824, one Repub- violation. nal text. The previous question shall be considered as ordered on the bill and amend- lican amendment, two Democratic I want to thank the gentlewoman ments thereto to final passage without inter- amendments, and one bipartisan from South Dakota, KRISTI NOEM, for vening motion except one motion to recom- amendment. Finally, the rule provides her work on this legislation, and I urge mit with or without instructions. for the customary motion to recommit Members of the House to support this SEC. 2. Upon adoption of this resolution it with or without instructions. worthy bill. shall be in order to consider in the House the H.R. 2792, the Control Unlawful Fugi- bill (H.R. 2792) to amend the Social Security tive Felons Act of 2017, amends the So- The second bill in today’s rule, H.R. Act to make certain revisions to provisions cial Security Act to give the Social Se- 2824, the Increasing Opportunity limiting payment of benefits to fugitive fel- curity Administration the necessary Through Evidence-Based Home Vis- ons under titles II, VIII, and XVI of the So- iting Act, extends funding for the Ma- cial Security Act. All points of order against tools to prevent Federal benefits and consideration of the bill are waived. The payments from being made to persons ternal, Infant, and Early Childhood amendment in the nature of a substitute rec- who are actually on the run from the Home Visiting Program, which is more ommended by the Committee on Ways and law. commonly referred to as MIECHV. Means now printed in the bill shall be con- Many people might hear this and The Maternal, Infant, and Early sidered as adopted. The bill, as amended, think: Why would the government ever Childhood Home Visiting Program is shall be considered as read. All points of continue to pay someone who is ac- order against provisions in the bill, as an important program that provides tively fleeing from law enforcement? low-income families with opportunities amended, are waived. The previous question It is a legitimate question, and it has shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as to receive home-visiting services to an unfortunate answer. amended, and on any further amendment In 1996, President Clinton signed the help support a child’s first years. These thereto, to final passage without intervening Personal Responsibility and Work Op- services range from prenatal care to motion except: (1) one hour of debate equally early childhood services and allow for divided and controlled by the chair and rank- portunity Reconciliation Act into law. ing minority member of the Committee on One major provision of this reform bill children to grow up in healthy homes. Ways and Means; and (2) one motion to re- was a restriction on the ability of fugi- As not only a physician but a physi- commit with or without instructions. tive felons and probation and parole cian who specialized in obstetrics and SEC. 3. In the engrossment of H.R. 2824 the violators from receiving Social Secu- Clerk shall— gynecology, I did spend 25 years work- (a) add the text of H.R. 2792, as passed by rity benefits. ing with pregnant women and families the House, as new matter at the end of H.R. b 1230 to help ensure that all mothers could 2824; Similar provisions have been in- deliver and raise healthy children. As (b) conform the title of H.R. 2824 to reflect an OB/GYN, I know the best way to en- the addition of H.R. 2792, as passed by the cluded in other Federal entitlement House, to the engrossment; programs, including the Supplemental sure that a child succeeds is to invest (c) assign appropriate designations to pro- Nutrition Assistance Program and the in long-term services and to ensure visions within the engrossment; and Temporary Assistance for Needy Fami- that the child receives access to appro- (d) conform cross-references and provisions priate care. for short titles within the engrossment. lies program. This policy was expanded The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- in 2004, with the passage of the Social Because of the Nurse-Family Part- tleman from Texas is recognized for 1 Security Protection Act. nership’s work, 90 percent of all babies However, subsequent to the passage hour. who are supported by the organization Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, for the of these commonsense reforms, several are born full term, 95 percent of those purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- judges in cases from the mid-2000s babies receive all their immunizations tomary 30 minutes to the gentleman ruled that the Social Security Admin- by 24 months, and nearly 89 percent of istration’s interpretation of these pro- from Florida (Mr. HASTINGS), pending those mothers breastfeed their which I yield myself such time as I visions was too broad and limited the newborns. Social Security Administration’s abil- may consume. During consideration of These are important milestones for ity to curtail payments to three nar- this resolution, all time yielded is for newborn children that can have lasting row categories of fugitives, namely: es- the purpose of debate only. impacts on their health for the rest of cape, flight to avoid prosecution or GENERAL LEAVE their lives, and it is important that we Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I ask confinement, and flight escape. The bill before the House today, H.R. support initiatives that support vital, unanimous consent that all Members 2792, would restore Congress’ original lifesaving programs like these. have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- intent to the reforms passed under Furthermore, the program succeeds tend their remarks. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there both Presidents Clinton and George W. by not only supporting the health and objection to the request of the gen- Bush. Specifically, H.R. 2792 would pro- well-being of children, but by sup- tleman from Texas? hibit an individual who is the subject porting pregnant women and mothers There was no objection. of an outstanding arrest warrant for a as well. In my home State of Texas, the Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, House felony or parole violation from receiv- reported incidence of maternal mor- Resolution 533 provides for the consid- ing monthly Social Security income tality has increased in recent years, in eration of two bills which were re- payments. This applies only to felony part, as the State has collected more ported by the House Ways and Means charges or a crime carrying a min- comprehensive data on causes of death Committee. imum term of 1 year or more in prison. up to a year after childbirth.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:30 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.003 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7501 While no amount of maternal mor- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of sible for many States to fully partici- tality is ever acceptable, the new data my time. pate in this program is not only not has shown us that the causes for ma- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield the way forward, it is downright dan- ternal mortality in the State have myself such time as I may consume, gerous. shifted away from those traditional and I thank the gentleman from Texas The second measure is H.R. 2792. It is acute cases that I was familiar with for yielding me the customary 30 min- a sidecar bill, as its only purpose in during my residency back in the 1970s. utes for debate. being considered is to offset the cost of There were illnesses such as preg- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to debate the MIECHV Program. nancy-induced hypertension, hemor- the rule for consideration of H.R. 2824, H.R. 2792 would reinstate an old, rhage, and infection during pregnancy. the Increasing Opportunity Through failed policy that had damaging effects Now it is different. We have cardiac Evidence-Based Home Visiting Act; and for many seniors and people with dis- disease, suicide, and opioid overdose, H.R. 2792, the Control Unlawful Fugi- abilities by taking away Supplemental which oftentimes occurs in the months tive Felons Act of 2017. Security Income benefits from every after childbirth. The first measure, H.R. 2824, reau- individual who has an outstanding fel- By supporting children in their first thorizes the Maternal, Infant, and ony warrant, regardless of the serious- years, MIECHV can not only help chil- Early Childhood Home Visiting Pro- ness of the alleged violation, the age of dren live healthy lives, but help moth- gram, or MIECHV, and provides preg- the warrant, or the condition of the re- ers live healthy lives as well, so that nant women and families access to recipient. they can continue to be there for their sources to improve maternal and child Mr. Speaker, over 110 national, State, children. health and promotes child develop- and local organizations have warned The MIECHV Program and organiza- ment. that H.R. 2792 is a cruel bill that could tions like the Nurse-Family Partner- I am glad to see this bill getting the have catastrophic consequences for ship succeed because they identify fam- attention that I think we all agree it some of our most vulnerable citizens. ilies in need that do not have readily deserves, considering the important Everyone can agree that dangerous available care and work to provide role the program plays in all of our criminals should not receive public services in home settings. communities. However, my concern is benefits while fleeing justice. In fact, Families cannot raise healthy chil- that, once again, we are witnessing my the Social Security Administration al- dren without access to care. When fam- Republican friends take a policy that ready provides regular notification to ilies cannot find providers in their should garner broad, bipartisan support law enforcement of any beneficiary area, MIECHV grant recipients are and instead scuttle the effort by play- who has an outstanding warrant. This there to provide that support. ing politics. H.R. 2824 builds upon the successes of bill, on the other hand, despite its H.R. 2824’s State matching provision the MIECHV Program by tailoring the title, would harm seniors and people is a threat to the core existence of this program to ensure that it can continue with severe disabilities, not felons. program. Because of this change from to help families that truly need the Mr. Speaker, a larger issue at hand is the past authorization, I fear that help. not simply the dangerous policy For example, H.R. 2824 requires for many States will lose Federal funding changes in the first bill, nor the failed States receiving MIECHV grants to and will be forced to cut off home vis- unnecessary policy found in the second, conduct statewide needs assessments iting services altogether. but rather the partisan manner in by 2020, in order to reaffirm which pop- Where do you propose poorer States which these bills are being considered, ulations and communities should re- with lower investments in home vis- especially in the face of the laundry ceive these services. The last time such iting get the money to meet the list of items that this body needs to ur- an assessment was required was in 2010. matching requirements? gently address in a bipartisan manner. As the needs of populations of States Then, Mr. Speaker, what about Trib- We do not have the luxury of time to have evolved over these past 10 years, al programs? They are especially vul- debate the majority’s attempts to leg- so should the program as well. It is im- nerable to the devastation that will be islate failed and dangerous policies portant to ensure that tax dollars con- wrought by making them come up with that will threaten families. tinue to be invested efficiently, and a 30 percent match. Native American We should be acting in the most exi- this bill ensures that MIECHV can con- communities struggle enough, as it is, gent fashion to address issues such as tinue to do so. without having to put up with these ascertaining the full scope of Hurricane Additionally, H.R. 2824 provides addi- absurd requirements. Maria’s devastation on Puerto Rico tional opportunities for States to pro- I do compliment Mrs. NOEM for fight- and the U.S. Virgin Islands and what mote quality and enhanced outcomes. ing along with our colleague on the we need to do to make our brothers and The bill updates the program by allow- Rules Committee, TOM COLE, for a 5- sisters in those areas whole again. ing for States to promote models that year hiatus before they would have to We should not be spending our time will have greater impact on multiple make the match. But as one who rep- taking a partisan approach to a pro- sites and locations, thus expanding the resents two Tribes, the Seminoles and gram that provides pregnant women reach of grants and providing States the Miccosukees, I don’t even think, and families access to resources to im- with the opportunity to reimburse after 5 years, their vulnerability to prove maternal and child health. Rath- grant recipients based on the quality devastation is going to be avoided. er, we should be working across the and outcomes associated with their Mr. Speaker, I ask: Why are my Re- aisle to address the real pressing issues programs. publican colleagues again choosing to facing our country. I certainly want to thank members of abandon bipartisanship in favor of par- b 1245 the Ways and Means Committee for the tisan politics? work they have put into this bill. It is Our goals should be to reauthorize Congress should be addressing the a smart bill that continues a Federal the vital program, not change long-es- plight of the millions of American citi- program for low-income families that tablished and successful policies that zens living in total devastation in actually has evidence of its effective- will hurt the most vulnerable in our Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Is- ness and, furthermore, links future country. lands. funding to the assurance of greater This program, as traditionally reau- Five days after Hurricane Maria deci- cost-effectiveness. thorized, puts families first in order to mated what Hurricane Irma had This program serves as a model for strengthen communities and improve spared, 15,000 people remain in govern- Federal programs to help low-income outcomes for kids and their families. ment shelters, thousands of homes are families and children. I want to thank Without the MIECHV Program, at-risk destroyed, roads are blocked, bridges Chairman SMITH and Chairman BRADY families will suffer. buckled, and a dam in Puerto Rico is for their efforts on this bill. I strongly support moving quickly to on the edge of collapse, threatening the For these reasons, I encourage every- reauthorize this program before it ex- lives of nearly 70,000 people with flash one in this body to support this rule pires on September 30, 2017. But adding flooding. Two hospitals in the Virgin and the underlying bill today. a provision that will make it impos- Islands have been destroyed, and lest I

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:35 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.024 H26SEPT1 H7502 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 not mention that we have not dealt astating storms; keeping the govern- izing today and it is worthy of our at- adequately with what is required in ment open and EPA pesticide registra- tention and support. Texas and in southwest Louisiana and tion fees. And by the end of the year, Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of in Florida. we must also act to reauthorize the my time. Today, in my office, numerous rep- Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act, Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I hope resentatives of government officials FISA, which we now know plays a crit- my colleague will support the DelBene and organizations came to present ical role in the fundamental aspects of amendment, which will eliminate the issues concerning ongoing matters hav- our democracy. matching funds for Tribes altogether. I ing to do with their concerns in our The Affordable Care Act’s annual fee mentioned that earlier. area. The Speaker of the House and the on health insurance providers needs to Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the chairman of appropriations were with be addressed, important for the health gentlewoman from Colorado (Ms. several of us in the Florida delegation of the marketplace, and the Oil Spill DEGETTE), my good friend. last week to review and view the dam- Liability Trust Fund financing rate. Ms. DEGETTE. Mr. Speaker, I thank age that has occurred in the Keys. And Now, Democrats stand ready to work the gentleman for yielding. I associate here we are, rather than dealing with a in a bipartisan fashion to address each myself with his remarks about every- humanitarian crisis as towns are left and every one of the matters that I thing we need to do by the end of the without fresh water, power, and fuel, just talked about, and all of them must fiscal year, which is the end of this we are dealing with a dangerous bill pass pieces of legislation. What we are week; in particular, reauthorization of that will address vulnerable people in a witnessing today is a clear indication CHIP that has helped so many millions negative way. that my Republican friends do not of kids get health insurance and get Officials reported that 1,360 of Puerto share the same spirit, but would rather the care that they need. Rico’s 1,600 telephone cell towers are play politics. I rise today, though, to talk about down. The same holds in the Virgin Is- Let me just add one little bit about the MIECHV bill, which is up today, lands. With 85 percent of aboveground that. In the other body, the United and to express my deep disappointment and underground phone and internet States Senate, we saw an example of that my colleagues on the other side of cables knocked out—the same in the partisan politics play out to its ex- the aisle have chosen to walk away Virgin Islands—officials still had not treme, and it is not likely that there is from yet another opportunity to work had communication with 9 of the 78 going to be an important measure deal- on a bipartisan basis. We could extend municipalities. It has been difficult or ing with the healthcare of Americans this program on a bipartisan basis just nearly impossible for individuals to coming from the United States Senate the way we started it. It is really a suc- reach or connect with their loved ones. back to this body that passed some- cess story. Let me make something very clear thing that was an awful bill earlier in The evidence-based models are prov- that many Members of the House do the year. en to deliver results for kids and fami- not understand. Everybody cries that But what did it do? lies in every single State. Investments FEMA should do all of the things that It caused LAMAR ALEXANDER and in MIECHV are investments in the suc- we would want it to do as the Federal PATTY MURRAY, who were working on cess of America’s children and their fu- Emergency Management Agency, but bipartisan measures, to stop their bi- tures. Peer-reviewed evidence proves FEMA today is dealing with 30 disas- partisan efforts so that we could go for- that MIECHV leads to improvements in ters in this country. ward in the Senate on a partisan meas- health outcomes for mothers and ba- I sat here a moment ago and heard ure that is going nowhere. People sent bies, school achievement, parenting our colleague from Montana describe us here to work together. They did not practices, and overall early childhood over a million acres of fire ongoing send us here to be partisan in every one development. there. In southern California, there is of our moves. What we are witnessing On top of all that, MIECHV is a great an extraordinary fire that is taking here today is another example of par- return on investment for Federal dol- place in that particular area. tisanship. lars. For example, for every Federal This devastation, these disasters as Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of dollar in the Nurse-Family Partner- in Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands, and my time. ship, we get $5.70 in return. Sadly, this elsewhere are only cracks of the serv- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield bill that the House is considering today ice of the long to-do list that Congress myself 2 minutes. would set MIECHV back. The partisan is confronted with. The list is long and Mr. Speaker, I want to talk again proposal would make it more difficult time is short. just for a minute about the second bill for MIECHV models in all of our States In addition to the MIECHV program, in today’s rule, H.R. 2824, the Increas- to continue their success stories. which the majority has decided to un- ing Opportunity and Success for Chil- Under current law, MIECHV only has dermine here today, at the end of the dren and Parents through Evidence- enough funding to reach 6 percent of el- week, the Children’s Health and Insur- Based Home Visiting Act, that does ex- igible families. But instead of working ance Program—CHIP, the Children’s tend funding for the Maternal, Infant, together to help the program reach Health and Insurance Program—Medi- and Early Childhood Home Visiting more children, this bill curtails the care provisions, and the Community Program. reach. It cuts the funding and, as my Health Centers Fund all expire without I just wanted to talk for a minute ranking member said, it imposes a any discussion at all in this House. We about some of the results that we have harmful State-matching requirement are leaving not only our constituents, seen in these program grants and, at that could force some of these home young and old, and the American peo- this point, reference my home State of health visit programs to shut down al- ple in a quandary about their health Texas to see how they have performed. together. insurance or treatment facilities, but The Nurse-Family Partnership is a It is really a shame that when you adding unnecessary anxiety to their community-based home services group are talking about healthy starts for lives. that supports pregnant women and new kids, we can’t work together on both Mr. Speaker, I would argue that the mothers in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. sides of the aisle. I would hope we snowball is only going to grow with the They have used grants from this pro- would defeat this legislation and come end of the calendar year looming right gram to support women through both back and do what we have done before around the corner. the promotion of preventive and pre- on this program, work together to have Let me just remind my colleagues in natal services for pregnant women, like a robust piece of legislation. the majority what needs to be ad- connecting women to physicians, help- Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I re- dressed by December 8: reauthorizing ing them get medications, and through serve the balance of my time. the National Flood Insurance Pro- the utilization of risk reduction serv- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield gram—I don’t know what that was yes- ices such as smoking cessation. myself such time as I may consume. terday that they were trying to do with Again, I tell you this to reiterate It is shameful that President Trump the FAA authorization—an absolute that these are good programs. This is a would end the DACA program without necessity in the wake of these dev- good program that we are reauthor- a single thought to the consequences

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:54 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.026 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7503 this decision would have on the 800,000 gaging in personalities toward the opposition a chance to decide the subject be- young lives this program protects. President. fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s Do the American people even want ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that b 1300 DACA to end? ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- The answer is clearly no. Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield mand for the previous question passes the control of the resolution to the opposition’’ According to a Politico/Morning Con- myself such time as I may consume. in order to offer an amendment. On March sult poll: ‘‘Support for allowing these Mr. Speaker, today’s rule provides 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- immigrants to remain in the United for consideration of two important fered a rule resolution. The House defeated States spans across party lines: 84 per- pieces of legislation to restore sanity the previous question and a member of the cent of Democrats, 74 percent of Inde- to the administration of the Social Se- opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, pendents, and 69 percent of Republicans curity program and to provide critical asking who was entitled to recognition. think they should stay.’’ tools for disadvantaged homes in help- Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R-Illinois) said: ‘‘The previous question having been refused, Congress must act to protect our ing families raise their children with the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- DREAMers. the best possible practices. gerald, who had asked the gentleman to Well, Mr. Speaker, here is our chance Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to to rectify President Trump’s heartless BRADY, Mrs. NOEM, and Mr. SMITH for the first recognition.’’ decision and restore the American peo- the work on each of their respective The Republican majority may say ‘‘the ple’s faith in us. If we defeat the pre- pieces of legislation, and I urge Mem- vote on the previous question is simply a vious question, I am going to offer an vote on whether to proceed to an immediate bers of this body to support both bills vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] amendment to the rule to bring up and the rule which will provide for has no substantive legislative or policy im- H.R. 3440, the Dream Act. This bipar- their consideration. plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what tisan, bicameral legislation would help The material previously referred to they have always said. Listen to the Repub- thousands of young people who are by Mr. HASTINGS is as follows: lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative Process in the United States House of Rep- Americans in every way except on AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 533 OFFERED BY resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s paper. MR. HASTINGS Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous con- how the Republicans describe the previous At the end of the resolution, add the fol- question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- sent to insert the text of my amend- lowing new sections: though it is generally not possible to amend ment in the RECORD, along with extra- SEC 4. Immediately upon adoption of this the rule because the majority Member con- neous material, immediately prior to resolution the Speaker shall, pursuant to trolling the time will not yield for the pur- the vote on the previous question. clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House pose of offering an amendment, the same re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there resolved into the Committee of the Whole sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- objection to the request of the gen- House on the state of the Union for consider- vious question on the rule . . . When the mo- tleman from Florida? ation of the bill (H.R. 3440) to authorize the tion for the previous question is defeated, There was no objection. cancellation of removal and adjustment of control of the time passes to the Member Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, status of certain individuals who are long- who led the opposition to ordering the pre- term United States residents and who en- vious question. That Member, because he through the Chair, I would advise my tered the United States as children and for then controls the time, may offer an amend- friend from Texas that I have no fur- other purposes. The first reading of the bill ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of ther speakers and that I am prepared shall be dispensed with. All points of order amendment.’’ to close. against consideration of the bill are waived. In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I re- General debate shall be confined to the bill of Representatives, the subchapter titled serve the balance of my time. and shall not exceed one hour equally di- ‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a refusal Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield vided and controlled by the chair and rank- to order the previous question on such a rule [a special rule reported from the Committee myself the balance of my time. ing minority member of the Committee on the Judiciary. After general debate the bill on Rules] opens the resolution to amend- We stand here today with a to-do list ment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, sec- a mile long, and we don’t have much shall be considered for amendment under the five-minute rule. All points of order against tion 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon re- time to cross items off that list. By provisions in the bill are waived. At the con- jection of the motion for the previous ques- kicking the can down the road on near- clusion of consideration of the bill for tion on a resolution reported from the Com- ly every past piece of legislation, this amendment the Committee shall rise and re- mittee on Rules, control shifts to the Mem- ber leading the opposition to the previous Republican majority has shown itself port the bill to the House with such amend- question, who may offer a proper amendment ments as may have been adopted. The pre- completely unable to govern. They or motion and who controls the time for de- vious question shall be considered as ordered have abdicated their duty to the Amer- bate thereon.’’ ican people to accomplish even the on the bill and amendments thereto to final Clearly, the vote on the previous question most basic of legislative tasks: passing passage without intervening motion except on a rule does have substantive policy impli- one motion to recommit with or without in- a budget. Without Democratic help, cations. It is one of the only available tools structions. If the Committee of the Whole for those who oppose the Republican major- they wouldn’t be able to even keep the rises and reports that it has come to no reso- lights on. ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- lution on the bill, then on the next legisla- native views the opportunity to offer an al- My sincere hope is that the next time tive day the House shall, immediately after ternative plan. we meet we will take up legislation the third daily order of business under clause Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, I yield that provides some much-needed relief 1 of rule XIV, resolve into the Committee of back the balance of my time, and I to our brothers and sisters in Puerto the Whole for further consideration of the move the previous question on the res- Rico and the Virgin Islands, as well as bill. olution. my home State of Florida and Texas SEC. 5. Clause 1(c) of rule XIX shall not apply to the consideration of H.R. 3440. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The and southwest Louisiana; and address question is on ordering the previous the other disasters that are occurring THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT question. throughout our country, more specifi- IT REALLY MEANS The question was taken; and the cally having to do with wildfires in This vote, the vote on whether to order the Speaker pro tempore announced that Montana, in Oregon, and in California; previous question on a special rule, is not the ayes appeared to have it. and that we will begin the process of merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, on that addressing every single one of the dering the previous question is a vote I demand the yeas and nays. needs of this Nation, particularly its against the Republican majority agenda and The yeas and nays were ordered. health and its healthcare in a bipar- a vote to allow the Democratic minority to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tisan way. offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- My colleagues on this side of the what the House should be debating. ceedings on this question will be post- Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the aisle stand ready to do so. I urge a House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- poned. ‘‘no’’ vote on the rule. scribes the vote on the previous question on f Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the HOUR OF MEETING ON TOMORROW of my time. consideration of the subject before the House The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- being made by the Member in charge.’’ To Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, pursu- bers are reminded to refrain from en- defeat the previous question is to give the ant to clause 4 of rule XVI, I move that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:54 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.027 H26SEPT1 H7504 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 when the House adjourns today, it ad- Dunn Knight Rokita Matsui Polis Slaughter journ to meet at 3 p.m. tomorrow. Emmer Kustoff (TN) Rooney, Francis McCollum Price (NC) Smith (WA) Estes (KS) Labrador Rooney, Thomas McEachin Quigley Soto The motion was agreed to. Farenthold LaHood J. McGovern Raskin Speier McNerney Rice (NY) f Faso LaMalfa Roskam Suozzi Ferguson Lamborn Ross Meeks Richmond Swalwell (CA) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Fitzpatrick Lance Rothfus Meng Rosen Takano Fleischmann Latta Moore Roybal-Allard PRO TEMPORE Rouzer Thompson (CA) Flores Lewis (MN) Royce (CA) Moulton Ruiz Thompson (MS) Fortenberry LoBiondo Russell Murphy (FL) Ruppersberger Titus The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Nadler Rush Foxx Loudermilk Rutherford Tonko ant to clause 8 of rule XX, proceedings Franks (AZ) Love Napolitano Ryan (OH) Sanford Torres Frelinghuysen Lucas Neal Sa´ nchez will resume on questions previously Schweikert Tsongas Gaetz Luetkemeyer Nolan Sarbanes postponed. Scott, Austin Vargas Gallagher MacArthur Norcross Schakowsky Sensenbrenner Veasey Votes will be taken in the following Garrett Marchant O’Halleran Schiff Sessions order: Gianforte Marino O’Rourke Schneider Vela ´ Gibbs Marshall Shimkus Pallone Schrader Velazquez Ordering the previous question on Shuster Visclosky House Resolution 533; Gohmert Massie Panetta Scott (VA) Goodlatte Mast Simpson Pascrell Scott, David Walz Adopting House Resolution 533, if or- Gosar McCarthy Smith (MO) Pelosi Serrano Wasserman dered; and Gowdy McCaul Smith (NE) Perlmutter Sewell (AL) Schultz Agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of Graves (GA) McClintock Smith (NJ) Peters Shea-Porter Waters, Maxine Graves (LA) McHenry Smith (TX) Peterson Sherman Watson Coleman the Journal. Graves (MO) McKinley Smucker Pingree Sinema Welch The first electronic vote will be con- Griffith McMorris Stefanik Pocan Sires Wilson (FL) ducted as a 15-minute vote. Remaining Grothman Rodgers Stewart NOT VOTING—14 electronic votes will be conducted as 5- Guthrie McSally Stivers Handel Meehan Taylor minute votes. Bridenstine Johnson, Sam Ros-Lehtinen Harper Mitchell Tenney Dingell Long Scalise f Harris Moolenaar Thompson (PA) Granger Meadows Tiberi Hartzler Mooney (WV) Thornberry Hanabusa Messer Yarmuth PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Hensarling Mullin Tipton Johnson, E. B. Payne Herrera Beutler Murphy (PA) OF H.R. 2824, INCREASING OPPOR- Trott Hice, Jody B. Newhouse Turner TUNITY AND SUCCESS FOR CHIL- Higgins (LA) Noem Upton b 1327 DREN AND PARENTS THROUGH Hill Norman Valadao Holding Nunes Wagner Messrs. PETERS, BRADY of Pennsyl- EVIDENCE-BASED HOME VIS- Hollingsworth Olson Walberg vania, CA´ RDENAS, Mses. CLARK of ITING ACT; PROVIDING FOR CON- Hudson Palazzo Walden Huizenga Palmer Massachusetts, BROWNLEY of Cali- SIDERATION OF H.R. 2792, CON- Walker TROL UNLAWFUL FUGITIVE FEL- Hultgren Paulsen fornia, Mr. BUTTERFIELD, and Mrs. Hunter Pearce Walorski ONS ACT OF 2017; AND FOR Walters, Mimi LOWEY changed their vote from ‘‘yea’’ Hurd Perry to ‘‘nay.’’ OTHER PURPOSES Issa Pittenger Weber (TX) Jenkins (KS) Poe (TX) Webster (FL) So the previous question was ordered. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Wenstrup Jenkins (WV) Poliquin The result of the vote was announced finished business is the vote on order- Johnson (LA) Posey Westerman ing the previous question on the reso- Johnson (OH) Ratcliffe Williams as above recorded. Jones Reed Wilson (SC) Stated against: lution (H. Res. 533) providing for con- Jordan Reichert Wittman sideration of the bill (H.R. 2824) to Joyce (OH) Renacci Womack Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- amend title V of the Social Security Katko Rice (SC) Woodall ably detained. Had I been present, I would Act to extend the Maternal, Infant, and Kelly (MS) Roby Yoder have voted ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 532. Kelly (PA) Roe (TN) Yoho Early Childhood Home Visiting Pro- King (IA) Rogers (AL) Young (AK) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gram; providing for consideration of King (NY) Rogers (KY) Young (IA) question is on the resolution. Kinzinger Rohrabacher Zeldin the bill (H.R. 2792) to amend the Social The question was taken; and the Security Act to make certain revisions NAYS—189 Speaker pro tempore announced that to provisions limiting payment of ben- the ayes appeared to have it. efits to fugitive felons under titles II, Adams Crist Himes Aguilar Crowley Hoyer RECORDED VOTE VIII, and XVI of the Social Security Barraga´ n Cuellar Huffman Act; and for other purposes, on which Bass Cummings Jackson Lee Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I de- the yeas and nays were ordered. Beatty Davis (CA) Jayapal mand a recorded vote. Bera Davis, Danny Jeffries The Clerk read the title of the resolu- Beyer DeFazio Johnson (GA) A recorded vote was ordered. tion. Bishop (GA) DeGette Kaptur The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Blumenauer Delaney Keating 5-minute vote. Blunt Rochester DeLauro Kelly (IL) question is on ordering the previous Bonamici DelBene Kennedy The vote was taken by electronic de- question. Boyle, Brendan Demings Khanna vice, and there were—ayes 230, noes 190, The vote was taken by electronic de- F. DeSaulnier Kihuen not voting 13, as follows: vice, and there were—yeas 230, nays Brady (PA) Deutch Kildee Brown (MD) Doggett Kilmer [Roll No. 533] 189, not voting 14, as follows: Brownley (CA) Doyle, Michael Kind [Roll No. 532] Bustos F. Krishnamoorthi AYES—230 Butterfield Ellison Kuster (NH) YEAS—230 Abraham Brat Cook Capuano Engel Langevin Aderholt Brooks (AL) Costello (PA) Abraham Bost Comer Carbajal Eshoo Larsen (WA) Allen Brooks (IN) Cramer Aderholt Brady (TX) Comstock Ca´ rdenas Espaillat Larson (CT) Amash Buchanan Crawford Allen Brat Conaway Carson (IN) Esty (CT) Lawrence Amodei Buck Culberson Amash Brooks (AL) Cook Cartwright Evans Lawson (FL) Arrington Bucshon Curbelo (FL) Amodei Brooks (IN) Costello (PA) Castor (FL) Foster Lee Babin Budd Davidson Arrington Buchanan Cramer Castro (TX) Frankel (FL) Levin Bacon Burgess Davis, Rodney Babin Buck Crawford Chu, Judy Fudge Lewis (GA) Banks (IN) Byrne Denham Bacon Bucshon Culberson Cicilline Gabbard Lieu, Ted Barletta Calvert Dent Banks (IN) Budd Curbelo (FL) Clark (MA) Gallego Lipinski Barr Carter (GA) DeSantis Barletta Burgess Davidson Clarke (NY) Garamendi Loebsack Barton Carter (TX) DesJarlais Barr Byrne Davis, Rodney Clay Gomez Lofgren Bergman Chabot Diaz-Balart Barton Calvert Denham Cleaver Gonzalez (TX) Lowenthal Biggs Cheney Donovan Bergman Carter (GA) Dent Clyburn Gottheimer Lowey Bilirakis Coffman Duffy Biggs Carter (TX) DeSantis Cohen Green, Al Lujan Grisham, Bishop (MI) Cole Duncan (SC) Bilirakis Chabot DesJarlais Connolly Green, Gene M. Bishop (UT) Collins (GA) Duncan (TN) Bishop (MI) Cheney Diaz-Balart Conyers Grijalva Luja´ n, Ben Ray Blackburn Collins (NY) Dunn Bishop (UT) Coffman Donovan Cooper Gutie´rrez Lynch Blum Comer Emmer Black Cole Duffy Correa Hastings Maloney, Bost Comstock Estes (KS) Blackburn Collins (GA) Duncan (SC) Costa Heck Carolyn B. Brady (TX) Conaway Farenthold Blum Collins (NY) Duncan (TN) Courtney Higgins (NY) Maloney, Sean

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:44 Dec 14, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\SEPTEMBER\H26SE7.REC H26SE7 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7505 Faso LaHood Rooney, Francis McEachin Price (NC) Slaughter Kildee Mooney (WV) Serrano Ferguson LaMalfa Rooney, Thomas McGovern Quigley Smith (WA) King (IA) Moore Sessions Fitzpatrick Lamborn J. McNerney Raskin Soto King (NY) Moulton Shea-Porter Fleischmann Lance Roskam Meeks Rice (NY) Speier Krishnamoorthi Mullin Sherman Flores Latta Ross Meng Richmond Suozzi Kuster (NH) Murphy (FL) Shimkus Fortenberry Lewis (MN) Rothfus Moore Rosen Swalwell (CA) Kustoff (TN) Nadler Shuster Foxx LoBiondo Rouzer Moulton Roybal-Allard Takano Labrador Napolitano Simpson Franks (AZ) Loudermilk Royce (CA) Murphy (FL) Ruiz Thompson (CA) LaMalfa Newhouse Smith (NE) Frelinghuysen Love Russell Nadler Ruppersberger Thompson (MS) Lamborn Noem Smith (NJ) Gaetz Lucas Rutherford Napolitano Rush Titus Larsen (WA) Norman Smith (TX) Gallagher Luetkemeyer Sanford Neal Ryan (OH) Tonko Latta Nunes Smith (WA) ´ Lewis (MN) Garrett MacArthur Schweikert Nolan Sanchez Torres O’Rourke Stefanik Norcross Sarbanes Tsongas Lipinski Olson Stewart Gianforte Marchant Scott, Austin Gibbs Marino O’Halleran Schakowsky Vargas Loudermilk Palazzo Takano Sensenbrenner Gohmert Marshall O’Rourke Schiff Veasey Love Pelosi Taylor Sessions Goodlatte Massie Pallone Schneider Vela Lowenthal Perlmutter Thornberry Shimkus Gosar Mast Panetta Schrader Vela´ zquez Lowey Pingree Titus Gowdy McCarthy Shuster Pascrell Scott (VA) Visclosky Lucas Pocan Trott Graves (GA) McCaul Simpson Pelosi Scott, David Walz Luetkemeyer Polis Tsongas Graves (LA) McClintock Smith (MO) Perlmutter Serrano Wasserman Lujan Grisham, Posey Vela´ zquez Graves (MO) McHenry Smith (NE) Peters Sewell (AL) Schultz M. Rice (SC) Wagner Griffith McKinley Smith (NJ) Peterson Shea-Porter Waters, Maxine Luja´ n, Ben Ray Richmond Walden Grothman McMorris Smith (TX) Pingree Sherman Watson Coleman Maloney, Roby Walker Guthrie Rodgers Smucker Pocan Sinema Welch Carolyn B. Rogers (KY) Walorski Handel McSally Stefanik Polis Sires Wilson (FL) Marchant Rooney, Francis Walters, Mimi Harper Meehan Stewart Marino Rooney, Thomas Walz Harris Messer Stivers NOT VOTING—13 Marshall J. Wasserman Hartzler Mitchell Taylor Black Johnson, Sam Scalise Massie Roskam Schultz Hensarling Moolenaar Tenney Bridenstine Long Tiberi McCarthy Ross Webster (FL) Herrera Beutler Mooney (WV) Thompson (PA) Granger Meadows Yarmuth McClintock Rothfus Welch Hice, Jody B. Mullin Thornberry Hanabusa Payne McCollum Royce (CA) Wenstrup Higgins (LA) Murphy (PA) Tipton Johnson, E. B. Ros-Lehtinen McHenry Ruppersberger Westerman Hill Newhouse Trott McMorris Russell Williams Holding Noem Turner b 1337 Rodgers Rutherford Wilson (FL) Hollingsworth Norman Upton McNerney Sanford Wilson (SC) Hudson Nunes Valadao Mr. MAST changed his vote from Meehan Schneider Wittman Meeks Schweikert Womack Huizenga Olson Wagner ‘‘no’’ to ‘‘aye.’’ Hultgren Palazzo Meng Scott (VA) Yoho Walberg So the resolution was agreed to. Hunter Palmer Messer Scott, Austin Young (IA) Walden Hurd Paulsen The result of the vote was announced Mitchell Scott, David Zeldin Walker Issa Pearce as above recorded. Jenkins (KS) Perry Walorski NAYS—199 Walters, Mimi A motion to reconsider was laid on Jenkins (WV) Pittenger Adams Eshoo Lee Weber (TX) the table. Johnson (LA) Poe (TX) Aguilar Espaillat Levin Webster (FL) Johnson (OH) Poliquin f Amash Esty (CT) Lewis (GA) Jones Posey Wenstrup Babin Evans Lieu, Ted Westerman Jordan Ratcliffe THE JOURNAL Barr Fitzpatrick LoBiondo Joyce (OH) Reed Williams Barraga´ n Flores Loebsack Katko Reichert Wilson (SC) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Bass Foxx Lofgren Wittman Kelly (MS) Renacci finished business is the question on Beatty Franks (AZ) Lynch Kelly (PA) Rice (SC) Womack Bera Fudge MacArthur King (IA) Roby Woodall agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of Bergman Gaetz Maloney, Sean King (NY) Roe (TN) Yoder the Journal, on which the yeas and Beyer Gallagher Mast Kinzinger Rogers (AL) Yoho nays were ordered. Biggs Gallego Matsui Knight Rogers (KY) Young (AK) Bishop (GA) Garrett McEachin Kustoff (TN) Rohrabacher Young (IA) The question is on the Speaker’s ap- Bishop (MI) Gibbs McGovern Labrador Rokita Zeldin proval of the Journal. Blackburn Gomez McKinley This is a 5-minute vote. Blum Gonzalez (TX) McSally NOES—190 The vote was taken by electronic de- Blunt Rochester Gosar Moolenaar Bost Gottheimer Murphy (PA) Adams Crowley Hoyer vice, and there were—yeas 214, nays Boyle, Brendan Graves (GA) Neal Aguilar Cuellar Huffman 199, answered ‘‘present’’ 1, not voting F. Graves (LA) Nolan Barraga´ n Cummings Jackson Lee Brady (PA) Graves (MO) Norcross Bass Davis (CA) Jayapal 19, as follows: Brownley (CA) Green, Al O’Halleran Beatty Davis, Danny Jeffries [Roll No. 534] Buck Green, Gene Pallone Bera DeFazio Johnson (GA) Bucshon Grijalva Palmer Beyer DeGette Kaptur YEAS—214 Burgess Grothman Panetta Bishop (GA) Delaney Keating Abraham Comstock Fortenberry Capuano Gutie´rrez Pascrell Blumenauer DeLauro Kelly (IL) Aderholt Conyers Foster Carbajal Hartzler Paulsen Blunt Rochester DelBene Kennedy Allen Cook Frankel (FL) Ca´ rdenas Hastings Pearce Bonamici Demings Khanna Amodei Cooper Frelinghuysen Carson (IN) Herrera Beutler Perry Boyle, Brendan DeSaulnier Kihuen Arrington Costello (PA) Gabbard Carter (GA) Hice, Jody B. Peters F. Deutch Kildee Bacon Courtney Garamendi Carter (TX) Holding Peterson Brady (PA) Dingell Kilmer Banks (IN) Cramer Gianforte Castor (FL) Hoyer Pittenger Brown (MD) Doggett Kind Barletta Crawford Goodlatte Cheney Hudson Poe (TX) Brownley (CA) Doyle, Michael Krishnamoorthi Barton Cuellar Gowdy Clark (MA) Jackson Lee Poliquin Bustos F. Kuster (NH) Bilirakis Culberson Griffith Clarke (NY) Jayapal Price (NC) Butterfield Ellison Langevin Bishop (UT) Cummings Guthrie Cleaver Jeffries Raskin Capuano Engel Larsen (WA) Blumenauer Davis (CA) Handel Clyburn Jenkins (KS) Ratcliffe Carbajal Eshoo Larson (CT) Bonamici Davis, Danny Harper Collins (GA) Jenkins (WV) Reed Ca´ rdenas Espaillat Lawrence Brady (TX) DeGette Harris Comer Johnson (OH) Reichert Carson (IN) Esty (CT) Lawson (FL) Brat Delaney Heck Conaway Jordan Renacci Cartwright Evans Lee Brooks (AL) DeLauro Hensarling Connolly Joyce (OH) Rice (NY) Castor (FL) Foster Levin Brooks (IN) DelBene Higgins (LA) Correa Katko Roe (TN) Castro (TX) Frankel (FL) Lewis (GA) Brown (MD) Demings Higgins (NY) Costa Keating Rogers (AL) Chu, Judy Fudge Lieu, Ted Buchanan Dent Hill Crist Kelly (IL) Rohrabacher Cicilline Gabbard Lipinski Budd DesJarlais Himes Crowley Kennedy Rokita Clark (MA) Gallego Loebsack Bustos Deutch Hollingsworth Curbelo (FL) Khanna Rosen Clarke (NY) Garamendi Lofgren Byrne Doggett Huffman Davidson Kihuen Rouzer Clay Gomez Lowenthal Calvert Donovan Huizenga Davis, Rodney Kilmer Roybal-Allard Cleaver Gonzalez (TX) Lowey Cartwright Duncan (SC) Hultgren DeFazio Kind Ruiz Clyburn Gottheimer Lujan Grisham, Castro (TX) Duncan (TN) Hunter Denham Kinzinger Rush Cohen Green, Al M. Chabot Ellison Hurd DeSantis Knight Ryan (OH) Connolly Green, Gene Luja´ n, Ben Ray Chu, Judy Emmer Issa DeSaulnier LaHood Sa´ nchez Conyers Grijalva Lynch Cicilline Engel Johnson (GA) Diaz-Balart Lance Sarbanes Cooper Gutie´rrez Maloney, Clay Estes (KS) Johnson (LA) Dingell Langevin Schakowsky Correa Hastings Carolyn B. Coffman Farenthold Jones Doyle, Michael Larson (CT) Schiff Costa Heck Maloney, Sean Cohen Faso Kaptur F. Lawrence Schrader Courtney Higgins (NY) Matsui Cole Ferguson Kelly (MS) Duffy Lawson (FL) Sensenbrenner Crist Himes McCollum Collins (NY) Fleischmann Kelly (PA)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:28 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.005 H26SEPT1 H7506 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 Sewell (AL) Swalwell (CA) Veasey The Clerk read the title of the bill. eral social programs have been evalu- Sinema Tenney Vela The CHAIR. Pursuant to the rule, the Sires Thompson (CA) Visclosky ated at all, and almost none condition Slaughter Thompson (MS) Walberg bill is considered read the first time. funding on evidence of whether the pro- Smith (MO) Thompson (PA) Waters, Maxine The gentleman from Nebraska (Mr. gram actually works. Smucker Tipton Watson Coleman SMITH) and the gentleman from Illinois Soto Turner Weber (TX) In the Better Way agenda put for- (Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS) each will control Speier Upton Woodall ward by House Republicans last year, 30 minutes. Stivers Valadao Yoder we proposed doing more of what Suozzi Vargas Young (AK) The Chair recognizes the gentleman MIECHV does: measuring how well pro- from Nebraska. ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—1 grams are working to focus funding on Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam Tonko those which produce real results. When Chair, I yield myself such time as I we spend limited taxpayer dollars to NOT VOTING—19 may consume. Black Johnson, E. B. Ros-Lehtinen Madam Chair, I rise in support of help those in need, we must make sure Bridenstine Johnson, Sam Scalise H.R. 2824, the Increasing Opportunity we are spending money on effective Butterfield Long Tiberi and Success for Children and Parents programs. To do otherwise is a dis- Dunn McCaul Torres service to both taxpayers as well as Gohmert Meadows Yarmuth Through Evidence-Based Home Vis- Granger Payne iting Act. This bill would reauthorize those we are seeking to help. Hanabusa Quigley the Maternal, Infant, and Early Child- On March 15 of this year, the Human b 1344 hood Home Visiting Program, known Resources Subcommittee held a hear- Mr. RUTHERFORD changed his vote as MIECHV, for 5 years and make sure ing on MIECHV. In the hearing, we from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ the program continues to focus on re- heard from those with firsthand experi- So the Journal was approved. sults. ence with home visiting programs, and The result of the vote was announced I would like to note, this bill rep- their input was invaluable as we devel- as above recorded. resents the first full reauthorization oped this proposal. proposal Congress has considered for f Both before and after the hearing, we this program. PERMISSION FOR MEMBER TO BE sought input from States and others The Ways and Means Human Re- about how the program was working CONSIDERED AS FIRST SPONSOR sources Subcommittee, which I chair, OF H.R. 296 and how it could be improved and held a hearing on the program earlier strengthened. These conversations also Mr. GAETZ. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- this year. We solicited feedback from informed the bill before us today. imous consent that I may hereafter be stakeholders, marked up a bill in com- considered to be the first sponsor of mittee, and today we are debating this I should also note, there is broad bi- H.R. 296, a bill originally introduced by bill on the floor. This is how Congress partisan support for MIECHV, includ- Representative Chaffetz of Utah, for is supposed to work, and this bill is an ing from dozens of national organiza- the purposes of adding cosponsors and example of Congress getting its work tions and hundreds of State and local requesting reprintings pursuant to done. organizations, including business lead- clause 7 of rule XII. The MIECHV Program helps support ers, law enforcement officers, faith- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there State and local efforts to provide vol- based groups, healthcare providers, objection to the request of the gen- untary, evidence-based home visiting child welfare advocacy organizations, tleman from Florida? services to parents and children living and early education providers. There was no objection. in communities that put them at risk While I understand some of my col- f of poor social and health outcomes, in- leagues would like to continue this cluding in rural areas like those I rep- program or even increase its funding INCREASING OPPORTUNITY AND resent. without an offset, under the rules that SUCCESS FOR CHILDREN AND Unlike many other programs that govern this Chamber and our current PARENTS THROUGH EVIDENCE- focus on money spent or people served, deficits, it would be irresponsible and BASED HOME VISITING ACT this program focuses on achieving real against the rules of this Chamber to GENERAL LEAVE results for families. Specifically, this fund this program without finding Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speak- program promotes school readiness of ways to reduce spending elsewhere. er, I ask unanimous consent that all young children, increases economic That is why we are considering this as Members may have 5 legislative days self-sufficiency of families, improves part of a package of two bills today: within which to revise and extend their prenatal health and birth outcomes, this bill and the Control Unlawful Fu- remarks and include extraneous mate- and prevents childhood abuse and ne- gitive Felons Act of 2017, which will be rial on H.R. 2824. glect. considered later this week during its The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Madam Chair, I have had the oppor- own debate. tunity to see firsthand what home vis- objection to the request of the gen- Instead of increasing our Nation’s iting looks like. In March, I spent time tleman from Nebraska? debt, we should be doing more of what in Nebraska with the Panhandle Public There was no objection. we are doing here today: prioritizing Health District’s Healthy Families The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Federal spending and focusing on what America program in western Nebraska. ant to House Resolution 533 and rule works by improving the integrity of The program focuses on improving the XVIII, the Chair declares the House in one program to provide funding for an- economic success and school readiness the Committee of the Whole House on other. the state of the Union for the consider- of vulnerable children and families in ation of the bill, H.R. 2824. three Nebraska counties: Scotts Bluff, Madam Chair, I am grateful for the The Chair appoints the gentlewoman Morrill, and Box Butte. time we are spending here today to from Alabama (Mrs. ROBY) to preside During my visit, I met with Dawn, consider the reauthorization of this im- over the Committee of the Whole. one of the program participants, who portant program, and I appreciate the told me what it was like for her to opportunity to stand in support of this b 1347 work with a home visitor. Her home bill today. IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE visitor helped her find a stable home I reserve the balance of my time. Accordingly, the House resolved and a steady income to provide for her HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, itself into the Committee of the Whole growing family. These are the types of COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND COMMERCE, House on the state of the Union for the outcomes we should be expecting when Washington, DC, September 18, 2017. consideration of the bill (H.R. 2824) to we have programs to help those who Hon. KEVIN BRADY, amend title V of the Social Security are struggling to get ahead. Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, Act to extend the Maternal, Infant, and MIECHV works because funding is Washington, DC. Early Childhood Home Visiting Pro- tied to evidence. Unfortunately, DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY: I write concerning gram, with Mrs. ROBY in the chair. MIECHV is the exception, as few Fed- H.R. 2824, Increasing Opportunity through

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:28 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.006 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7507 Evidence-Based Home Visiting Act, which we are not voting on that provision harmful bill and its discriminatory was additionally referred to the Committee today, the rule we are considering this pay-for, joining the good company of on Energy and Commerce. bill under makes it an inescapable part the NAACP, the American Academy of I wanted to notify you that the Committee will forgo action on H.R. 2824 so that it may of it. Pediatrics, Justice in Aging, National proceed expeditiously to the House floor for I join with over 110 civil rights, dis- Women’s Law Center, and the Arc of consideration. This is done with the under- ability, and aging agencies to strongly the United States, to name just a few. standing that the Committee’s jurisdictional oppose the Republican effort to pay for I urge my colleagues to oppose H.R. interests over this and similar legislation home visiting services that strengthen 2824 so that we can move quickly on to are in no way diminished or altered. In addi- vulnerable children by stripping cer- a bipartisan approach which builds on tion, the Committee reserves the right to tain low-income seniors and those with home visiting’s considerable strength. seek conferees on H.R. 2824 and requests your severe disabilities of basic income they Madam Chair, I reserve the balance support when such a request is made. I would appreciate your response con- need to survive. of my time. firming this understanding with respect to H.R. 2824 also is inconsistent with bi- b 1400 H.R. 2824 and ask that a copy of our ex- partisan Senate legislation introduced change of letters on this matter be included last week, which rejected the most con- Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam in the Congressional Record during consider- troversial and problematic changes in Chair, I yield 3 minutes to the gen- ation of the bill on the House floor. H.R. 2824 in order to keep what works. tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. MEE- Sincerely, So what should the House have done HAN). GREG WALDEN, instead of H.R. 2824? Mr. MEEHAN. Madam Chair, I thank Chairman. 826 organizations urged the House the gentleman for yielding, and I want and Senate leaders to ‘‘reauthorize this to express my deep appreciation for the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, opportunity to join in this advocacy COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, important program for 5 years, with a Washington, DC, September 18, 2017. doubling of funding from $400 million, for this very important bill. Hon. GREG WALDEN, annually, to $800 million, annually, to One of the great frustrations I know Chairman, Committee on Energy and Commerce, allow States, territories, and Tribes to I share is when we have to make Washington, DC. expand these services to more children choices, and I see people come to me DEAR CHAIRMAN WALDEN: Thank you for and families.’’ Yet H.R. 2824 fails to in- and they want us to increase the fund- your letter concerning H.R. 2824, the ‘‘In- crease funding by even one penny. ing for those who are on the front lines creasing Opportunity through Evidence- fighting for our country, to increase Based Home Visiting Act,’’ on which the En- Currently, MIECHV dollars serve ergy and Commerce Committee was granted only about 6 percent of eligible fami- the funding for those who are suffering an additional referral. lies and less than 50 percent of eligible from diseases, to increase the funding I am most appreciative of your decision to Tribes. I tried to offer a fully paid-for to protect senior citizens in various ca- waive formal consideration of H.R. 2824 so alternative to double funding for home pacities, and every one of them tears at that it may proceed expeditiously to the visiting over 5 years without harmful your heartstrings. House floor. I acknowledge that although policy changes but was not allowed a That is why, to me, it is such an in- you waived formal consideration of the bill, vote in committee or on the floor. credible accomplishment when you are the Energy and Commerce Committee is in able, at this particular period of time, no way waiving its jurisdiction over the sub- One of the most harmful policy ject matter contained in those provisions of changes is a new ‘‘State match’’ re- with huge deficits, to be able to fight the bill that fall within your Rule X jurisdic- quirement, which would be in addition to make sure that we can retain the tion. I would support your effort to seek ap- to the ‘‘maintenance of effort’’ require- funding to drive a fundamental pro- pointment of an appropriate number of con- ment already in law. Just as with their gram. The chairman has done that in ferees on any House-Senate conference in- failed healthcare bill, this Republican this case, and I find the arguments to volving this legislation. bill pushes their fight to make States double that to be just a Trojan horse, I will include a copy of our letters in our pay more for services, while harming an impediment to helping us take a committee report and in the Congressional meaningful program and make sure Record during consideration of this legisla- vulnerable children and families as col- tion on the House floor. lateral damage. There is no doubt that that it is authorized and supported. Sincerely, the State match in this bill will reduce In April, I visited the Crozer-Key- KEVIN BRADY, home visiting in many States and stone Community Foundation in my Chairman. Tribes, cut services, and harm families. own district. The foundation operates Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. The Republican bill further under- MIECHV and uses the Nurse-Family Madam Chair, I yield myself such time mines successful home visiting by Partnership model to serve women and as I may consume. changing it from a program to improve families in Delaware County. The Madam Chair, following the wisdom child development and parent-child re- model enables nurses to conduct reg- of Frederick Douglass, who said it is lationships to a failed jobs program. ular home visits for first-time mothers easier to build strong families, strong Defining a core outcome of MIECHV as and their children who are less than 2- children, than to repair broken men, I increased employment and earnings years-old. It is designed to improve introduced my first bipartisan home will gut Federal home visiting. Not prenatal health and outcomes, improve visiting bill over a decade ago, in 2005. one—not one—of the evidence-based child health and development, and im- Since 2005, home visiting has been models is a job training program. Not prove families’ economic self-suffi- uniquely bipartisan—until today. one. ciency. Research is clear. Home visiting This bill says, if any program wants The success is evident to the experi- makes kids and families stronger, to improve economic self-sufficiency, it ence of the women and families in the healthier, and safer. In my home State shall include employment and earn- programs. In fact, the Nurse-Family of Illinois, MIECHV improved program ings. Further, the bill applies strin- Partnership model has been shown to coordination, reinforced the emphasis gent, unrealistic outcome standards. reduce child abuse by 48 percent, re- on proven models, and expanded avail- H.R. 2824 is failure by design for duce emergency room visits for acci- ability of services. Unfortunately, the home visiting. Later today, I urge my dents and poisonings by 58 percent, and majority’s approach has rejected bipar- colleagues to support Congressman reduce behavioral and intellectual tisanship and made timely reauthoriza- PASCRELL’s amendment to strike this problems by age 6 by 67 percent. tion of home visiting less likely. change. A study found that $6 is returned to H.R. 2824 presents substantial cuts to After a decade of bipartisan efforts to the community for every dollar it in- home visiting and threatens the effec- increase Federal funds for home vis- vests in the program. Did you hear tiveness of services for vulnerable chil- iting, I am deeply saddened that H.R. that? For every dollar the community dren and families. Equally bad, the rule 2824 now is the House Republican pri- invests, they will get $6; so it is not under which we are considering this ority list for cutting funding, reducing wrong to ask our partners in the States bill conditions home visiting help to services, and undermining the infra- to match this commitment. In fact, my vulnerable families on harming seniors structure that so many have worked to own State of Pennsylvania, I am proud and persons with disabilities. Although build. I unequivocally oppose this to say it has actually exceeded the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.009 H26SEPT1 H7508 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 matching because they know it works Like the chairman, I, too, have seen A story was shared with me recently and it makes a true partnership with firsthand its successes. I recently trav- when I met with Alaska and Jimmy the States. eled to a Nurse-Family Partnership fa- Martinez from San Antonio. During So I want to, once again, conclude by cility, which is a nonprofit that ar- their first year in college, Alaska be- applauding the efforts of the chairman ranges home visits from registered came pregnant. She felt she was going to position this in such a way for us to nurses to low-income, first-time moth- to have to drop out of school, and then be able to move forward, to create the ers. they met with Susan, with the Nurse- opportunity for this genuine partner- I had the opportunity to meet the Family Partnership there in San Anto- ship, to move on, on behalf of the—not nurses and the women who currently nio, and she gave them some referrals programs just like the Nurse-Family are enrolled in the program. NFP fa- and some assistance. They were able to Partnership, but the broad spectrum cilities transform the lives of vulner- learn more about the development of that are supported. able first-time moms and their babies, their child and how they could prepare Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. empowering them to build brighter fu- their family for that child’s arrival. Madam Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the tures and stronger families, none of Now, Alaska is about to finish her as- gentleman from Michigan (Mr. LEVIN). which would be possible without sociate’s degree. Jimmy is pursuing his (Mr. LEVIN asked and was given per- MIECHV funding. business degree, and they are happy to mission to revise and extend his re- I am proud to note that, like my pre- have a beautiful 2-year-old son. marks.) vious speaker, my home State of That is the way this program is sup- Mr. LEVIN. Madam Chair, I am dis- Michigan has already taken the initia- posed to work so people don’t sink into appointed that this bill, H.R. 2824, in- tive to invest significant funding for poverty. They are lifted up and so are jects needless controversy into reau- the NFP facilities and other organiza- their children. This is just one of thou- thorizing the Maternal, Infant, and tions, in addition to MIECHV funds, to sands of success stories from across the Early Childhood Home Visiting Pro- the extent that Michigan would now al- country—the family that unexpectedly gram. ready meet the requirement proposed finds they have a child with severe dis- Home visiting is an evidence-based in the bill. abilities, or maybe just the more com- approach that connects pregnant I am particularly thankful for the mon experience of the family that has women and families with young chil- chairman’s transparent engagement a baby who cries all night long, and dren to nurses, social workers, and process within the committee, specifi- they don’t know what to do about it. other professionals. Through these pro- cally, early on. I raised the concern Too often, that is the kind of thing grams, parents learn skills that help that the addition of new evidence that ends up in a slap here, a slap reduce abuse and neglect and improve standards, along with substantial evi- there, and child abuse. Too often, it child development during the crucial dence standards already in place, ends up with that child just being put early years of life. might be problematic, and I wanted to in front of the television set instead of Most importantly, home visiting is ensure that home visitors were not working with the child to deal with backed by strong evidence that shows overly burdened by data collecting so these real-life problems. these programs are an effective way to that they can care for the mothers and Some reforms were mentioned, al- improve outcomes for at-risk families. the babies. leged reforms, in this bill. I have served Both of these concerns were ad- Unfortunately, H.R. 2824 ignores the on this subcommittee through a num- dressed with the amendments con- proven successes of home visiting in ber of terms of Congress. We have had tained in the chairman’s amendment, favor of harmful, partisan changes to some excellent witnesses, Republican and I want to thank Chairman SMITH the law. In particular, I am troubled by and Democratic, and I have yet to hear and Chairman BRADY for their leader- language in this bill that would cut off a single witness call for a single one of ship in addressing these concerns and funding to States and Tribal organiza- the changes that they are proposing to other concerns. tions that are unable to match Federal I want to thank the chairman for all impose on this program as obstacles to spending on home visiting. The bipar- of his hard work, and I want to join its success. tisan bill in the Senate does not do him and my colleagues in supporting We haven’t had an academic expert. that; you do. H.R. 2824. We haven’t had a stakeholder. We Advocates are concerned that this Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. haven’t had a single witness come for- could cause States to scale back or Madam Chair, I yield 5 minutes to the ward and say: Please change this pro- even end their programs altogether. In gentleman from Texas (Mr. DOGGETT), gram so it cannot achieve the success addition, this bill makes a number of who has long been a champion on these that it is having today. ill-advised changes that have little or issues. This is an evidence-based program. no apparent justification. Research Mr. DOGGETT. Madam Chair, across What does that mean? It means it is shows that home visiting programs are our country, there are thousands of based on fact, not just on hope or good working well, yet only 6 percent of eli- children, thousands of families, that intention, as a number of our programs gible individuals currently participate. have a really big stake in what happens are. It means there is peer-reviewed We should be looking at expanding, not with this bill. data showing that this program works undermining, access to home visiting. I support evidence-based home vis- to reduce child abuse and to solve We need, at the very least, a clean iting programs, and I support them not other problems. bill that reauthorizes the home visiting just by talking about them, but by pro- The chairman, the advocate for this program in a bipartisan way. Unfortu- viding them the resources they need to bill, tells me that they recognize this nately, H.R. 2824 is not that bill, and, reach more children and make a dif- in the great Republican blueprint, and for that reason, I urge that we vote ference in their lives. they want to do more of this. Well, if ‘‘no.’’ This whole program, ‘‘home vis- they want to do more of this, why are Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam iting,’’ is a little bit of a misnomer. they creating one obstacle after an- Chair, I yield 4 minutes to the gen- This is not about going out to pay a so- other and causing one group after an- tleman from Michigan (Mr. BISHOP). cial visit, to join a club or something. other to oppose those changes? Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Madam This is about skilled professionals What about the resources to get the Chair, I thank Chairman SMITH for working with young parents to help job done? As so many of the Republican yielding and for his hard work and them be the parents they want to be. It witnesses before our subcommittee leadership on this matter. is about family values. It is about have acknowledged, we are helping a Madam Chair, I rise today to support strengthening and protecting families, fraction of the children who are eligi- H.R. 2824, which would reauthorize the particularly disadvantaged families. ble for these kind of services. Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Our home visiting programs give I think you could call this bill the Home Visiting Program. At its core, these families the tools that they need. Republican 6 percent solution, because MIECHV improve the lives of families I have seen how successful they have about 94 percent of eligible families in in at-risk communities, focusing on the been in San Antonio, in San Marcos, in America don’t get a penny of assist- first years of a child’s life. Austin, and across Texas. ance out of this program. This program

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.039 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7509 that they say is so good, they want to b 1415 work they are doing in Indiana’s Sec- praise it as an evidence-based pro- Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. ond District. I heard from a single gram—and well they should, and well Madam Chair, I yield 3 minutes to the mom who had no job, no place to live, they have in the course of the several gentleman from California (Mr. THOMP- and very little money when she gave years I have served on the committee— SON). birth to her son; but with the help of this program is frozen at the same Mr. THOMPSON of California. Healthy Families, she turned long odds amount of funds that it had 5 years Madam Chair, I thank the gentleman into success. The mother gained con- ago. for yielding. I thank Mr. DAVIS for his fidence to raise her son, and her son Though the need has grown, though great leadership on this issue. gained a shot at a thriving life that he the fraction of children who are served Madam Chair, I rise today in opposi- may not have had without this pro- is minuscule compared with the need, tion to this bill. gram. they refuse to provide the resources to Since its inception, MIECHV has Home visitors helped over 2,600 Hoo- help other families like Alaska and been universally hailed as a tremen- sier families in situations like this in Jimmy’s. dous success. It works, and it is cost ef- Indiana last year. It is clear, we can’t just throw money fective. Participants like it; State and MIECHV is a program that gets re- at this problem or any other, but some- local governments like it; Democrats sults. It works. We know this because times the only substitute that I hear like it; and Republicans like it. It helps of the statistics, but we hear it in the from my Republican colleagues is to young families get off to a running stories that they share with us. Par- throw words at the problem like we start and makes sure that kids get the ents get the tools and the confidence have heard today: caring, soothing, em- hand they need to stay on track. they need to raise their children. This pathetic words, but words that are no I have seen this program work. The improves outcomes for their children substitute for meaningful action. Nurse-Family Partnership program in in the really early critical years and Indeed, it is great to hear about sup- Solano County, in my district, helps sets them on a better path as they port for an evidence-based program. moms get the care and the support grow up. The program helps to root out Where is the evidence for these they need to have a healthy pregnancy deeper issues like drug abuse and do- changes? and to learn to care for their babies. mestic violence that destroy families The CHAIR. The time of the gen- Home visits teach these new young and hinder a child’s development. tleman has expired. moms the basics of raising healthy If there is one thing I have learned as Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. kids, helping them become more self- I have heard from people in my district Madam Chair, I yield an additional 1 sufficient. who successfully broke the cycle of minute to the gentleman from Texas. But instead of building on these suc- poverty, it is this: It is one thing to Mr. DOGGETT. Madam Chair, where cesses and giving community programs provide money, but if that money is the evidence today? It couldn’t be the support they have been asking for, comes on a one-size-fits-all basis, peo- produced in committee. Where is the today the Republicans are focusing on ple cannot break the cycle. Checking a evidence for one of these changes? undermining a great record of progress. box doesn’t break the cycle. Human Where is the evidence for freezing this Take, for instance, the new matching interaction, looking at each person as funding? requirements in this bill. an individual and not just a number, We proposed to fully fund it, and I When Congress created MIECHV, we resolving underlying issues unique to proposed to do it with a simple tax authorized money for Tribes that don’t each person’s situation, and having a compliance measure that wouldn’t have the resources to build home vis- person coming alongside, saying, ‘‘I am have raised taxes on anyone, but it iting programs on their own. This bill with you; let’s do this together’’ breaks would have provided the resources for would force those Tribes to attribute the cycle. MIECHV is a great example this home visiting program to do its in- matching money—which they don’t of a program that does this. tended purpose. have—to keep their program going. Madam Chair, I urge my colleagues This measure, as proposed, should be That is a death sentence to Tribal pro- to support this bill. rejected, and we ought to support gen- grams like the one in my district in Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. uine home visiting that reaches more Lake County, California. Madam Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the American families and protects them, With the passage of this bill, we are gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. CAS- just as it has for so many families in shortchanging hundreds of vulnerable TOR). Texas. families that rely on these programs. Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Madam Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam In addition, poor communities—not Chair, I thank Mr. DAVIS for his out- Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- just Tribal communities, but poor com- standing advocacy on behalf of families tleman from Kansas (Mr. ESTES). munities across the country—have the all across America. Mr. ESTES of Kansas. Madam Chair, same funding challenges, and these are Madam Chair, I rise in opposition to I rise today in support of H.R. 2824, the most often the areas that benefit the H.R. 2824 because this Republican bill Increasing Opportunity and Success for most from MIECHV. This bill hurts throws up unnecessary bureaucratic Children and Parents through Evi- people in those communities. hoops and roadblocks to the progress dence-Based Home Visiting Act. With this bill, we are not empowering we have made under the Maternal, In- We need more support for early child- communities to raise healthy children; fant, and Early Childhood Home Vis- hood, and to support families in that we are undermining a great bipartisan iting initiative. effort. They need to be evidence-based program, and for that I stand in opposi- It is smart policy to target resources programs to ensure that we get more of tion to this piece of legislation. and community experts to families who the right beneficial programs imple- Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam are most at risk back home. I have mented. Chair, I yield 3 minutes to the gentle- seen it in action back home in Tampa, This bill seeks to strengthen the woman from Indiana (Mrs. WALORSKI). Florida, where experts simply go to the home visiting services to families in Mrs. WALORSKI. Madam Chair, I ap- home and explain to parents the impor- at-risk communities, and that is im- preciate Chairman SMITH’s support and tance of reading to your young child to portant because it will help reduce in- the work he has done on this bill. get them ready for school, the impor- fant abuse and neglect across America. Madam Chair, I rise in strong support tance of sleep, healthy habits, turning The law’s six benchmark areas will of the Increasing Opportunity and Suc- off the TV, and focusing on being a improve maternal and newborn health cess for Children and Parents Through family unit. That is why it is so unfor- and will increase families’ economic Evidence-Based Home Visiting Act. In tunate that the Republicans are tar- self-sufficiency. It also looks to better my home State of Indiana, three of the geting the progress we have made. the coordination between community nine counties eligible for MIECHV We are smarter now. We understand resources. funds are in my district. what is successful, and, unfortunately, I would like to thank Chairman In April, I had the pleasure of vis- H.R. 2824 would undermine successful BRADY and Chairman SMITH for putting iting with Healthy Families St. Joseph home visiting initiatives by making forth this piece of legislation. County to hear firsthand the good policy changes that no expert has

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.056 H26SEPT1 H7510 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 asked for. Indeed, I checked with my gret that there will not be enough of Sec. 10. Data exchange standards for improved folks back home at the University of them to make this the bill that we had interoperability. South Florida and on the ground there hoped it would be. SEC. 3. CONTINUING EVIDENCE-BASED HOME VIS- across the Tampa Bay area, and they Madam Chairwoman, I urge a ‘‘no’’ ITING PROGRAM. say that, no, this bill will jeopardize vote, and I yield back the balance of Section 511(j)(1)(H) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 711(j)(1)(H)) is amended by striking the progress that we are making right my time. ‘‘fiscal year 2017’’ and inserting ‘‘each of fiscal now. In fact, they think that the match Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam years 2017 through 2022’’. requirement will bring to an end the Chair, I yield myself such time as I SEC. 4. CONTINUING TO DEMONSTRATE RESULTS progress that we have been able to may consume. TO HELP FAMILIES. make because of the pressure on our Again, I would like to take this time (a) REQUIRE SERVICE DELIVERY MODELS TO State budget. to thank my colleagues for taking the DEMONSTRATE IMPROVEMENT IN APPLICABLE The way forward is through the bill time to consider the reauthorization of BENCHMARK AREAS.—Section 511 of the Social that my colleagues—Mr. DAVIS, Mr. this important program. Security Act (42 U.S.C. 711) is amended in each of subsections (d)(1)(A) and (h)(4)(A) by striking DOGGETT, Ms. DEGETTE—and I have The MIECHV Program has bipartisan ‘‘each of’’. charted under H.R. 3525, which is a fair- support due to its focus on achieving real results for families. This program (b) DEMONSTRATION OF IMPROVEMENTS IN ly clean reauthorization that doubles SUBSEQUENT YEARS.—Section 511(d)(1) of such down on what works and doesn’t invest works because its funding is tied to Act (42 U.S.C. 711(d)(1)) is amended by adding in the bureaucratic red tape that sim- real evidence. It is imperative that we at the end the following: ply is not going to help a family suc- continue this program in a responsible ‘‘(D) DEMONSTRATION OF IMPROVEMENTS IN ceed. way, partnering with States to in- SUBSEQUENT YEARS.— So, Madam Chair, I urge the House to crease the program’s success. ‘‘(i) CONTINUED MEASUREMENT OF IMPROVE- defeat this bill and, instead, to work in I might repeat that for emphasis. It MENT IN APPLICABLE BENCHMARK AREAS.—The eligible entity, after demonstrating improve- a bipartisan fashion. is imperative that we continue this program in a responsible way—a rea- ments for eligible families as specified in sub- The CHAIR. The time of the gentle- paragraphs (A) and (B), shall continue to track woman has expired. sonable way, I will add—as we partner and report not later than 30 days after the end Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. with States to increase the program’s of fiscal year 2020 and every three years there- Madam Chairwoman, I yield the gen- success. This bill shows how we can after, information demonstrating that the pro- tlewoman an additional 15 seconds. prioritize our Federal spending, focus- gram results in improvements for the eligible Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Madam ing on programs with evidence that families participating in the program in at least Chair, instead, I urge the House to de- shows they actually work. 4 of the areas specified in subparagraph (A) feat this bill that is not recommended I look forward to moving this bill for- that the service delivery model or models, selected by the entity, intend to improve. by anyone in the field. Instead, let’s ward to reauthorize the MIECHV Pro- gram so more Americans can get the ‘‘(ii) CORRECTIVE ACTION PLAN.—If the eligible work in a bipartisan way on what entity fails to demonstrate improvement in at works, what saves taxpayers’ money in help they need to get ahead. least 4 of the areas specified in subparagraph the long run, and, most importantly, Madam Chair, I yield back the bal- (A), the entity shall develop and implement a what truly boosts families. ance of my time. plan to improve outcomes in each of the areas Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam The CHAIR. All time for general de- specified in subparagraph (A) that the service Chair, I just want to add for the bate has expired. delivery model or models, selected by the entity, Pursuant to the rule, the bill shall be intend to improve, subject to approval by the RECORD that the State of Florida considered for amendment under the 5- Secretary. The plan shall include provisions for matches their funds more than 2 to 1 the Secretary to monitor implementation of the already, so I am anxious to present the minute rule. In lieu of the amendment in the na- plan and conduct continued oversight of the data here as it becomes necessary and ture of a substitute recommended by program, including through submission by the is helpful to the exchange here. entity of regular reports to the Secretary. the Committee on Ways and Means, Madam Chair, I reserve the balance ‘‘(iii) TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE.—The Secretary of my time. printed in the bill, it shall be in order shall provide an eligible entity required to de- Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. to consider as an original bill for the velop and implement an improvement plan Madam Chair, I yield myself the bal- purpose of amendment under the 5- under clause (ii) with technical assistance to develop and implement the plan. The Secretary ance of my time to close. minute rule an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the may provide the technical assistance directly or Madam Chair, we know that home through grants, contracts, or cooperative agree- visiting works. There is no doubt about text of Rules Committee Print 115–33. That amendment in the nature of a ments. it. It is evidence based. Nobody has ‘‘(iv) NO IMPROVEMENT OR FAILURE TO SUBMIT substitute shall be considered as read. spoken anything that one would say it REPORT.—If the Secretary determines after a pe- was not needed. It works for families The text of the amendment in the na- riod of time specified by the Secretary that an and children in communities across our ture of a substitute is as follows: eligible entity implementing an improvement country. We agree about that on a bi- H.R. 2824 plan under clause (ii) has failed to demonstrate partisan basis. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- any improvement in at least 4 of the areas specified in subparagraph (A) that the service deliv- So we should not be here today de- resentatives of the United States of America in Congress assembled, ery model or models intend to improve, or if the bating a partisan bill, a bill that home SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Secretary determines that an eligible entity has visiting experts say poses a risk to the This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Increasing Op- failed to submit the report required by clause (i), program’s survival. We should be mov- portunity and Success for Children and Parents the Secretary shall terminate the grant made to ing forward on a bipartisan bill with- through Evidence-Based Home Visiting Act’’. the entity under this section and may include any unexpended grant funds in grants made to out policy changes that might shut SEC. 2. TABLE OF CONTENTS. down home visiting in some commu- The table of contents of this Act is as follows: nonprofit organizations under subsection nities or set it up for failure. (h)(2)(B).’’. Sec. 1. Short title. (c) INCLUDING INFORMATION ON APPLICABLE I hope that my colleagues will vote Sec. 2. Table of contents. BENCHMARKS IN APPLICATION.—Section 511(e)(5) Sec. 3. Continuing evidence-based home visiting for the amendments being offered of such Act (42 U.S.C. 711(e)(5)) is amended by program. today that will improve the bill, but I inserting ‘‘that the service delivery model or also have some concerns about the Sec. 4. Continuing to demonstrate results to help families. models, selected by the entity, intend to im- State match. Sec. 5. Reviewing statewide needs to target re- prove’’ before the period at the end. No matter what we say, think of sources. SEC. 5. REVIEWING STATEWIDE NEEDS TO TAR- States and territories that have just Sec. 6. Improving the likelihood of success in GET RESOURCES. been devastated by the floods and hur- high-risk communities. Section 511(b)(1) of the Social Security Act (42 ricanes. It is going to be very difficult Sec. 7. Measuring improvements in family eco- U.S.C. 711(b)(1)) is amended by striking ‘‘Not for them to come up with the match nomic self-sufficiency. later than’’ and all that follows through ‘‘state- Sec. 8. Option to fund evidence-based home vis- wide’’ the 2nd place it appears and inserting money to keep some programs alive. iting on a pay for outcome basis. ‘‘Each State shall, as a condition of receiving So I hope that my colleagues will Sec. 9. Strengthening evidence-based home vis- payments from an allotment for the State under vote for the amendments being offered iting through state, local, and pri- section 502, review and update the statewide today that will improve the bill. I re- vate partnerships. needs assessment not later than October 1, 2020

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(which may be separate from but in coordina- ‘‘(l) MATCHING REQUIREMENT.— ‘‘(i) DESIGNATION.—The head of the depart- tion with the statewide’’. ‘‘(1) PROGRAM HOME VISITING SHARE.— ment or agency responsible for administering a SEC. 6. IMPROVING THE LIKELIHOOD OF SUC- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—An eligible entity to which program referred to in this section shall, in con- CESS IN HIGH-RISK COMMUNITIES. a grant is made under this section for fiscal year sultation with an interagency work group estab- Section 511(d)(4)(A) of the Social Security Act 2020 or any succeeding fiscal year shall not use lished by the Office of Management and Budget, (42 U.S.C. 711(d)(4)(A)) is amended by inserting the grant to cover more than the applicable per- and considering State government perspectives, ‘‘, taking into account the staffing, community centage of the costs of providing services or con- designate data exchange standards to govern resource, and other requirements of the service ducting activities under this section during the Federal reporting and exchange requirements delivery model or models that the eligible entity fiscal year. under applicable Federal law. may need to develop for the model to operate ‘‘(B) APPLICABLE PERCENTAGE.—In subpara- ‘‘(ii) REQUIREMENTS.—The data exchange re- and demonstrate improvements for eligible fami- graph (A), the term ‘applicable percentage’ porting standards required by clause (i) shall, to lies’’ before the period. means, with respect to a fiscal year— the extent practicable— ‘‘(i) in the case of an eligible entity that is a ‘‘(I) incorporate a widely accepted, nonpropri- SEC. 7. MEASURING IMPROVEMENTS IN FAMILY State or nonprofit organization— ECONOMIC SELF-SUFFICIENCY. etary, searchable, computer-readable format; ‘‘(I) 70 percent, in the case of fiscal year 2020; ‘‘(II) be consistent with and implement appli- Section 511(d)(1)(A)(v) of the Social Security ‘‘(II) 60 percent, in the case of fiscal year 2021; Act (42 U.S.C. 711(d)(1)(A)(v)) is amended by in- cable accounting principles; or ‘‘(III) be implemented in a manner that is serting ‘‘(which shall include measures of em- ‘‘(III) 50 percent, in the case of fiscal year ployment and earnings)’’ before the period. cost-effective and improves program efficiency 2022 or any succeeding fiscal year; or and effectiveness; and SEC. 8. OPTION TO FUND EVIDENCE-BASED HOME ‘‘(ii) in the case of an eligible entity that is an ‘‘(IV) be capable of being continually up- VISITING ON A PAY FOR OUTCOME Indian Tribe (or a consortium of Indian Tribes), graded as necessary. BASIS. a Tribal Organization, or an Urban Indian Or- ‘‘(iii) INCORPORATION OF NONPROPRIETARY (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 511(c) of the Social ganization— STANDARDS.—In designating data exchange Security Act (42 U.S.C. 711(c)) is amended by re- ‘‘(I) 100 percent, in the case of fiscal year 2020 standards under this paragraph, the Secretary designating paragraphs (3) and (4) as para- or 2021; or graphs (4) and (5), respectively, and by inserting ‘‘(II) 70 percent, in the case of fiscal year 2022 shall, to the extent practicable, incorporate ex- after paragraph (2) the following: or any succeeding fiscal year. isting nonproprietary standards, such as the eXtensible Mark up Language. ‘‘(3) AUTHORITY TO USE GRANT FOR A PAY FOR ‘‘(2) NON-PROGRAM HOME VISITING SHARE.— ‘‘(iv) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in OUTCOMES INITIATIVE.—An eligible entity to The share of the costs of providing services or this paragraph shall be construed to require a which a grant is made under paragraph (1) may conducting activities under this section not cov- change to existing data exchange standards for use the grant to pay for the results of a pay for ered by grant funds may include— Federal reporting about a program referred to in outcomes initiative that satisfies the require- ‘‘(A) State expenditures of Federal funds this section, if the head of the department or ments of subsection (d) and that will not result made available other than under this section ex- agency responsible for administering the pro- in a reduction of funding for services delivered pended for activities under this section; gram finds the standards to be effective and effi- under this section while an eligible entity devel- ‘‘(B) State expenditures of State funds ex- cient.’’. ops or operates such an initiative.’’. pended for activities under this section as a con- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made (b) DEFINITION OF PAY FOR OUTCOMES INITIA- dition of receiving Federal funds other than by this section shall take effect 2 years after the TIVE.—Section 511(k) of such Act (42 U.S.C. under this section; and date of the enactment of this Act. 711(k)) is amended by adding at the end the fol- ‘‘(C) contributions made for activities under lowing: this section from any other source, paid in cash The CHAIR. No amendment to that ‘‘(4) PAY FOR OUTCOMES INITIATIVE.—The term or in kind, valued at the fair market value of amendment in the nature of a sub- ‘pay for outcomes initiative’ means a perform- such contribution.’’. stitute shall be in order except those (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section ance-based grant, contract, cooperative agree- printed in House Report 115–331. Each ment, or other agreement awarded by a public 511(h)(2)(A) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 711(h)(2)(A)) is amended in the 2nd sentence by striking such amendment may be offered only entity in which a commitment is made to pay for in the order printed in the report, by a improved outcomes that result in social benefit ‘‘Such’’ and inserting ‘‘Except as provided in and direct cost savings or cost avoidance to the subsection (l)(1), such’’. Member designated in the report, shall public sector. Such an initiative shall include— SEC. 10. DATA EXCHANGE STANDARDS FOR IM- be considered as read, shall be debat- ‘‘(A) a feasibility study that describes how the PROVED INTEROPERABILITY. able for the time specified in the report proposed intervention is based on evidence of ef- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 511(h) of the Social equally divided and controlled by the fectiveness; Security Act (42 U.S.C. 711(h)) is amended by proponent and an opponent, shall not ‘‘(B) a rigorous, third-party evaluation that adding at the end the following: ‘‘(5) DATA EXCHANGE STANDARDS FOR IM- be subject to amendment, and shall not uses experimental or quasi-experimental design PROVED INTEROPERABILITY.— be subject to a demand for division of or other research methodologies that allow for ‘‘(A) DESIGNATION AND USE OF DATA EXCHANGE the question. the strongest possible causal inferences to deter- STANDARDS.— mine whether the initiative has met its proposed AMENDMENT NO. 1 OFFERED BY MR. SMITH OF ‘‘(i) DESIGNATION.—The head of the depart- NEBRASKA outcomes; ment or agency responsible for administering a ‘‘(C) an annual, publicly available report on program funded under this section shall, in con- The CHAIR. It is now in order to con- the progress of the initiative; and sultation with an interagency work group estab- sider amendment No. 1 printed in ‘‘(D) a requirement that payments are made to lished by the Office of Management and Budget House Report 115–331. the recipient of a grant, contract, or cooperative and considering State government perspectives, Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam agreement only when agreed upon outcomes are designate data exchange standards for nec- Chair, I have an amendment at the achieved, except that this requirement shall not essary categories of information that a State apply with respect to payments to a third party desk. agency operating the program is required to The CHAIR. The Clerk will designate conducting the evaluation described in subpara- electronically exchange with another State graph (B).’’. the amendment. agency under applicable Federal law. The text of the amendment is as fol- (c) EXTENDED AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS.—Sec- ‘‘(ii) DATA EXCHANGE STANDARDS MUST BE tion 511(j)(3) of such Act (42 U.S.C. 711(j)(3)) is NONPROPRIETARY AND INTEROPERABLE.—The lows: amended— data exchange standards designated under Page 5, beginning on line 17, strike ‘‘of the (1) by striking ‘‘(3) AVAILABILITY.—Funds’’ clause (i) shall, to the extent practicable, be service delivery model or models that the el- and inserting the following: nonproprietary and interoperable. igible entity may need to develop for the ‘‘(3) AVAILABILITY.— ‘‘(iii) OTHER REQUIREMENTS.—In designating model to operate’’ and inserting ‘‘to operate ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in sub- data exchange standards under this paragraph, at least 1 approved model of home visiting’’. paragraph (B), funds’’; and the Secretary shall, to the extent practicable, in- (2) by adding at the end the following: The CHAIR. Pursuant to House Reso- corporate— lution 533, the gentleman from Ne- ‘‘(B) FUNDS FOR PAY FOR OUTCOMES INITIA- ‘‘(I) interoperable standards developed and TIVES.—Funds made available to an eligible en- maintained by an international voluntary con- braska (Mr. SMITH) and a Member op- tity under this section for a fiscal year (or por- sensus standards body, as defined by the Office posed each will control 5 minutes. tion of a fiscal year) for a pay for outcomes ini- of Management and Budget; The Chair recognizes the gentleman tiative shall remain available for expenditure by ‘‘(II) interoperable standards developed and from Nebraska. the eligible entity for not more than 10 years maintained by intergovernmental partnerships, Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Madam after the funds are so made available.’’. such as the National Information Exchange Chair, I yield myself such time as I SEC. 9. STRENGTHENING EVIDENCE-BASED HOME Model; and may consume. VISITING THROUGH STATE, LOCAL, ‘‘(III) interoperable standards developed and AND PRIVATE PARTNERSHIPS. maintained by Federal entities with authority Madam Chair, this amendment seeks (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 511 of the Social Se- over contracting and financial assistance. to establish a careful balance between curity Act (42 U.S.C. 711) is amended by adding ‘‘(B) DATA EXCHANGE STANDARDS FOR FED- two competing views in regards to at the end the following: ERAL REPORTING.— where and how home visiting programs

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.010 H26SEPT1 H7512 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 should be operated. The law requires b 1430 The Chair recognizes the gentleman States to operate home visiting pro- Both my friend from Nebraska and I from New Jersey. grams in areas of highest need. How- represent rural America, and we under- Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chair, this ever, some States expressed concern stand the obstacles that our rural con- amendment would strike the provision that they have been required to oper- stituents confront on a daily basis. in the bill that would add increasing ate home visiting programs in areas Moreover, we both believe in the mis- employment and earnings to the Ma- where they were likely to fail, as they sion of the MIECHV Program, and we ternal, Infant, and Early Childhood were not permitted to take into ac- see how effective it has been in both Home Visiting Program, or MIECHV, count staff and community resources rural and urban communities. as it is generally referred to. and other requirements of a home vis- One of the reasons why the MIECHV I, obviously, share the goal of in- iting model when choosing where to op- Program is good policy is because of creasing employment and earnings erate. the program’s flexibility. While models across the country. However, home vis- In the bill I introduced with my col- like the Nurse-Family Partnership can iting is not an employment program. It leagues, we allowed States to take be successful in urban and suburban is a program to strengthen families to these considerations into account, and areas, other evidence-based models like make kids healthier, safer, and more States were generally pleased with this HIPPY—or Home Instruction for Par- ready to learn when they start school. change. However, since the introduc- ents of Preschool Youngsters—can be Those are the outcomes home visiting tion of the bill, we have received addi- incredibly effective in rural areas that models strive for, and those are the tional feedback that some changes tend to have fewer resources. outcomes they achieve. might be needed to make sure States This amendment language, which I I mentioned the other day in the could take into account these factors offered during the committee markup, Ways and Means Committee that I but not simply avoid serving actual ensures that rural communities with know the good that these programs do areas with the highest need, including little resources are not skipped over. firsthand. In Passaic County—because rural areas and remote areas that I This is a simple and commonsense fix most of these programs are run represent, as well as others. that has bipartisan support as well as through counties throughout Amer- During the Ways and Means markup the support from the Home Visiting ica—our home visiting program worked of this bill, Representative SEWELL of- with a pregnant mom expecting a child fered an amendment to address this Coalition. While I appreciate my colleagues on with a heart defect. problem. Although we did not include the other side of the aisle for working The baby required open heart surgery her actual amendment in the reported with me to fix this language, I have to shortly after being born last July. bill, as we did not have enough time to say that I am disappointed that none of After the surgery, the newborn contin- review it and consider any unintended the other commonsense amendments ued to have health complications. At consequences, Representative SEWELL offered by my Democratic colleagues times, his mom felt depressed and and I have been able to review her pro- hopeless and feared that her child was posal since the markup and discuss its were accepted during the markup. For years, the MIECHV Program has not going to survive. implications. I am pleased today to enjoyed bipartisan support, but I am The home visiting program’s family offer this bipartisan amendment to ad- afraid that Republican changes in the support worker was able to assist the dress the concerns she and others have underlying legislation we are consid- mom by connecting her to services, raised. providing her with emotional support, Specifically, this amendment, com- ering today, I believe, will hurt the and acting as a liaison with the hos- bined with the language in the under- MIECHV recipients in the long-term pital where her son was. lying bill, allows States to take into viability of the program. While I oppose the final passage of We know the negative impact that account staffing, community resources, postpartum depression can have on new and other requirements when deter- the underlying bill, I, again, want to moms and their babies. The home vis- mining how to operate their home vis- thank my friend from Nebraska, as iting program was able to connect this iting programs, while requiring that well as Chairman BRADY, for accepting mom to supportive services and re- they operate at least one home visiting my markup amendment language, and sources and alleviate her depression so model in those communities with a I urge my colleagues to support the that she could be a healthy and pleas- high need for services. This ensures Smith amendment. ant mom. I am happy to report that, States do not shy away from some of Mr. Chairman, I yield back the bal- after nearly 3 months in the hospital, the most difficult areas, which are ance of my time. Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Chair- this little boy was finally able to go often those that need home visiting man, again, I am grateful that Ms. SE- home, and his mother continues to services the most. I am glad we have been able to work WELL and I could work together to work with the home visiting program together on this bipartisan amend- come up with this amendment. I cer- in northern New Jersey. ment, and I urge my colleagues to sup- tainly urge its adoption as we do move I don’t think anyone can hear that port the amendment as well as the un- forward with the bill. story and not see value in the services Mr. Chairman, I yield back the bal- derlying bill. that were provided. The home visiting Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance ance of my time. program helped a mom, like so many of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is other mothers across America, navi- Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Chair- on the amendment offered by the gen- gate her newborn son’s healthcare cri- man, I claim the time in opposition, al- tleman from Nebraska (Mr. SMITH). sis and manage the mental health though I am not opposed to the amend- The amendment was agreed to. issues associated with it. ment. AMENDMENT NO. 2 OFFERED BY MR. PASCRELL But under the provision that my The Acting CHAIR (Mr. SIMPSON). The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order amendment is seeking to strike from Without objection, the gentlewoman is to consider amendment No. 2 printed in the bill, this outcome would not be recognized for 5 minutes. House Report 115–331. measured as a success. There is some- There was no objection. Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, I thing wrong with that. Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. First, I have an amendment at the desk. Most home visiting models focus on would like to thank Chairman BRADY The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will families with newborns or very small as well as Chairman SMITH for hon- designate the amendment. children and focus on building a par- oring their commitment to work with The text of the amendment is as fol- ent-child bond. That is a fact. Many me to ensure that the most needy rural lows: home visiting programs focus on teen communities are not neglected in this Page 5, strike lines 21 through 26. parents and young mothers, and the bill. The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to priority is to keep them in school and I am glad to see that the language I House Resolution 533, the gentleman make sure they continue their edu- proposed during the committee mark- from New Jersey (Mr. PASCRELL) and a cation. up last week has been included in the Member opposed each will control 5 There are currently 18 evidence-based Smith amendment. minutes. home visiting models. None of them

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:41 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.046 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7513 provide employment services, none of goal. I believe it is absolutely critical The good news is that Tribes are al- them measure employment and earn- that this intent be restored in the law. ready using home visiting resources to ings. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues implement evidence-based models that Home visitors have raised concerns to oppose this amendment and support have decreased depression, substance that having to ask families about em- the underlying bill, and I reserve the abuse, and stress among parents, while ployment and earnings would be intru- balance of my time. improving health among children. sive when you know what the focus of Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chairman, as I Seventy-seven percent of Tribal the program is, and would undermine said, there are currently 18 evidence- home visiting programs have improved the relationship they are trying to based home visiting models. Also, there family outcomes in at least four dif- build with families. is nothing added to the budget; no ferent areas, such as improving mater- Even if the data is collected without extra currency I am asking for. nal and newborn health, increasing specifically asking families for it, I would ask the sponsor of the bill school readiness, reducing domestic vi- knowing their performance is being what he would tell this woman from olence, and strengthening parents’ eco- measured based on their client’s labor Passaic County, New Jersey, one of nomic self-sufficiency. force participation—here is the kernel many examples that I have. I ask him The bad news is the need for help in of the issue—will likely make home what his answer would be to that Indian Country has far exceeded the visitors feel they have to press their woman. limited funding available through the clients to work even if, like in the case Mr. Chairman, I yield back the bal- home visiting program. In fact, less of the mom in Passaic County, that ance of my time. than half of qualified applications for should not be the main object. Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Chair- Tribal home visiting can be granted Additionally, this bill provides no man, again, I urge my colleagues to op- under the current funding levels. new funding. We are not asking for any pose the amendment as well as support Some States have tried to address new money here. Any resources de- the underlying bill, and I yield back these shortages with State resources, voted to supporting work would have the balance of my time. like my home State of Washington, to be diverted from MIECHV’s core The Acting CHAIR. The question is which has voluntarily used State fund- purposes. on the amendment offered by the gen- ing to meet the needs of Tribal fami- I urge my colleagues, Mr. Chairman, tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PAS- lies. But it is not enough. to support this amendment to make CRELL). The underlying bill provides no new sure children and families served by The question was taken; and the Act- resources to address the nationwide this program get the support and serving Chair announced that the noes ap- shortfall in Tribal funding. Instead, it ice that they truly need. peared to have it. adds a match requirement that could Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Chair, I demand be the end of home visiting on reserva- of my time. a recorded vote. tions altogether. Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Chair- The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to Most Indian Tribes struggle economi- man, I claim the time in opposition to clause 6 of rule XVIII, further pro- cally and already face challenges pro- the amendment. ceedings on the amendment offered by viding help to families. I understand The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman is the gentleman from New Jersey will be that Tribal administrators have said recognized for 5 minutes. postponed. almost none of them could meet the Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Chair- AMENDMENT NO. 3 OFFERED BY MS. DELBENE match requirement in this legislation. man, since the creation of the MIECHV The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order Indian Tribes have also generally Program, States have been required to to consider amendment No. 3 printed in considered Federal match require- demonstrate their home visiting pro- House Report 115–331. ments to be a violation of Tribal sov- grams result in measurable improve- Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Chairman, I have ereignty. As such, they may have to ments in six benchmark areas specified an amendment at the desk. refuse the funds and shut down home in the law. The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will visiting programs if the bill is enacted One of the benchmark areas States designate the amendment. with the match requirement. can choose to focus on is ‘‘improve- The text of the amendment is as fol- I appreciate that the chairman has ments in family economic self-suffi- lows: delayed the implementation of the ciency.’’ Yet, as the result of changes Page 9, line 16, strike ‘‘Organization’’ and Tribal match and reduced it to 30 per- made last year under the prior Presi- all that follows through line 21 and insert cent. But, realistically, the effect will dential administration, ‘‘economic self- ‘‘Organization, 100 percent.’’. be simply to give Tribes more time to sufficiency’’ no longer means what you The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to shut down their home visiting pro- think it means—increasing work and House Resolution 533, the gentlewoman grams. The match requirement will earnings. Instead, it was defined as from Washington (Ms. DELBENE) and a still be completely unworkable for whether you have health insurance or Member opposed each will control 5 them in 2022. are in school. minutes. The Federal Government has a re- Clearly, this is not what Congress The Chair recognizes the gentle- sponsibility to our Tribal communities meant when the program was created woman from Washington. to do everything we can to support and included the concept of economic Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Chairman, my their people, strengthen their families, self-sufficiency. So this bill would amendment would eliminate the dan- and expand economic opportunity. make sure that States, if they choose gerous cuts to Tribes who don’t meet Mr. Chairman, the underlying bill to focus on family economic self-suffi- the bill’s match requirement. I urge all takes a dangerous step in the wrong di- ciency as one of the four benchmarks of my colleagues to support it. rection for our Tribes, but we still have of the six, would measure employment I am proud to represent a number of the opportunity to stop it. and earnings as a part of that metric. Tribal communities in the Puget Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues Again, States can choose among six Sound region that each have a rich his- to vote ‘‘yes’’ on my amendment, and I different benchmarks when they decide tory, identity, and culture. But they yield back the balance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is which home visiting programs to oper- face unique challenges. on the amendment offered by the gen- ate and what goals they would like to The need for home visiting services is tlewoman from Washington (Ms. achieve within those previously estab- particularly high among American In- DELBENE). dians and Alaska Natives. Young peo- lished by Congress. They don’t have to The amendment was agreed to. choose this metric, as I mentioned ear- ple who live on reservations are twice lier. However, when they do explicitly as likely to become teen parents. Near- b 1445 set out to increase economic self-suffi- ly three-fourths of the parents served AMENDMENT NO. 4 OFFERED BY MRS. MURPHY OF ciency—emphasis on the economic—in- by Tribal home visiting services live FLORIDA formation on work and earnings must below the Federal poverty level. And The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order be part of what is measured to deter- the majority of Tribal beneficiaries to consider amendment No. 4 printed in mine whether they have achieved their have less than a high school diploma. House Report 115–331.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:41 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.049 H26SEPT1 H7514 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Chair- practice, however, Puerto Rico is treat- The motion was agreed to. man, I have an amendment at the desk. ed unfairly. The Department of Health Accordingly, the Committee rose; The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will and Human Services makes allocations and the Speaker pro tempore (Mr. RICE designate the amendment. based, in part, on a U.S. Census Bureau of South Carolina) having assumed the The text of the amendment is as fol- data product on childhood poverty, but chair, Mr. SIMPSON, Acting Chair of the lows: that data does not include information Committee of the Whole House on the Page 14, after line 9, insert the following: on Puerto Rico or the other territories. state of the Union, reported that that SEC. 11. ALLOCATION OF FUNDS. Therefore, Puerto Rico always receives Committee, having had under consider- Section 511(j) of the Social Security Act (42 the minimum grant allowed by the law, ation the bill (H.R. 2824) to amend title U.S.C. 711(j)) is amended by adding at the even though the island of 3.4 million V of the Social Security Act to extend end the following: has a high rate of childhood poverty. the Maternal, Infant, and Early Child- ‘‘(4) ALLOCATION OF FUNDS.—To the extent My amendment would simply require that the grant amount awarded under this hood Home Visiting Program, had section to an eligible entity is determined on HHS, when making grants, to use the come to no resolution thereon. the basis of relative population or poverty best Federal data available for every f considerations, the Secretary shall make the State and territory and to use an ap- determination using the most accurate Fed- propriate alternative data source, if RECESS eral data available for the eligible entity.’’. necessary, in the case of Puerto Rico. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to This will ensure that Puerto Rico re- ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair House Resolution 533, the gentlewoman ceives its fair share of funding and not declares the House in recess subject to from Florida (Mrs. MURPHY) and a one penny more and not one penny the call of the Chair. Member opposed each will control 5 less. Accordingly (at 2 o’clock and 51 min- minutes. I hope my colleagues will support utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. The Chair recognizes the gentle- this amendment and that we will con- f woman from Florida. tinue to do everything possible to help Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Chair- our fellow citizens in Puerto Rico. b 1514 man, I rise in support of my bipartisan Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance AFTER RECESS amendment, which is cosponsored by of my time. The recess having expired, the House Congresswoman JENNIFFER GONZA´ LEZ- Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Chair- was called to order by the Speaker pro COLO´ N from Puerto Rico and Congress- man, I claim the time in opposition to tempore (Mr. UPTON) at 3 o’clock and woman NYDIA VELA´ ZQUEZ from New the amendment, even though I am not York. opposed to it. 14 minutes p.m. The American citizens in Puerto Rico The Acting CHAIR. Without objec- f and the neighboring U.S. Virgin Islands tion, the gentleman is recognized for 5 INCREASING OPPORTUNITY AND are enduring an incredibly difficult sit- minutes. SUCCESS FOR CHILDREN AND uation in the aftermath of Hurricane There was no objection. PARENTS THROUGH EVIDENCE- Irma and Hurricane Maria. Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Chair- BASED HOME VISITING ACT As a Member whose central Florida man, I support this amendment, the district is home to over 100,000 individ- Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- uals of Puerto Rican heritage, I join Home Visiting Program, that is de- ant to House Resolution 533 and rule my colleagues on both sides of the aisle signed to serve families with young XVIII, the Chair declares the House in who have made crystal clear to our children living in communities at risk the Committee of the Whole House on brothers and sisters in Puerto Rico and of a range of negative outcomes. the state of the Union for the further the U.S. Virgin Islands that they will Today, HHS allocates money for consideration of the bill, H.R. 2824. receive all the Federal support they MIECHV based on the share of children Will the gentleman from Tennessee need to stabilize the situation in the under age 5 in families at or below 100 (Mr. DUNCAN) kindly take the chair. short term, to rebuild in the medium percent of the Federal poverty line liv- b 1515 term, and to emerge stronger in the ing in each State and territory. IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE long term. It is imperative that the distribution We are part of one American family. of funds is done using the most accu- Accordingly, the House resolved And like any close-knit family, we al- rate and up-to-date information so we itself into the Committee of the Whole ways have each other’s backs, espe- can use our limited resources to target House on the state of the Union for the cially when times are tough. those most in need. further consideration of the bill (H.R. My amendment will ensure that I thank the sponsors of this amend- 2824) to amend title V of the Social Se- curity Act to extend the Maternal, In- Puerto Rico and the other U.S. terri- ment, Representatives MURPHY, fant, and Early Childhood Home Vis- tories are treated equally under the GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N, and VELA´ ZQUEZ, for Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood bringing this issue to our attention and iting Program, with Mr. DUNCAN of Home Visiting Program, which the unfor offering this amendment. Tennessee (Acting Chair) in the chair. derlying bill reauthorizes. The amend- Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of The Clerk read the title of the bill. ment will implement a recommenda- my time. The Acting CHAIR. When the Com- tion made by the bipartisan, bicameral Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Chair- mittee of the Whole rose earlier today, Congressional Task Force on Economic man, in closing, I would simply reit- amendment No. 4, printed in House Re- Growth in Puerto Rico. erate my hope that my colleagues on port 115–331, offered by the gentle- This Federal program provides an- both sides of the aisle will support this woman from Florida (Mrs. MURPHY), nual grants to States and territories to amendment. had been disposed of. fund home visiting services for families Mr. Chairman, I yield back the bal- AMENDMENT NO. 2 OFFERED BY MR. PASCRELL with young children. Visits are con- ance of my time. The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to ducted by social workers and other pro- Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Chair- clause 6 of rule XVIII, the unfinished fessionals. They provide parenting edu- man, I urge support of this amendment business is the demand for a recorded cation and other support services with and the underlying bill so that we can vote on amendment No. 2 printed in a goal of helping at-risk families suc- help children. House Report 115–331 offered by the ceed. It is a great program that invests Mr. Chairman, I yield back the bal- gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. PAS- in children and families, helps lift ance of my time. CRELL) on which further proceedings them out of poverty, and increases the The Acting CHAIR. The question is were postponed and on which the noes chance that they will become produc- on the amendment offered by the gen- prevailed by voice vote. tive and successful members of society. tlewoman from Florida (Mrs. MURPHY). The Clerk will redesignate the In theory, the program treats States The amendment was agreed to. amendment. and territories equally when it comes Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Chair, I The Clerk redesignated the amend- to the distribution of grant funding. In move that the Committee do now rise. ment.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:30 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.053 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7515 RECORDED VOTE Duffy Kinzinger Rogers (KY) Chair of the Committee of the Whole Duncan (SC) Knight Rohrabacher House on the state of the Union, re- The Acting CHAIR. A recorded vote Duncan (TN) Kustoff (TN) Rokita has been demanded. Dunn Labrador Rooney, Francis ported that that Committee, having A recorded vote was ordered. Emmer LaHood Rooney, Thomas had under consideration the bill (H.R. The vote was taken by electronic de- Estes (KS) LaMalfa J. 2824) to amend title V of the Social Se- Farenthold Lamborn Roskam vice, and there were—ayes 191, noes 231, Faso Lance Ross curity Act to extend the Maternal, In- not voting 11, as follows: Ferguson Latta Rothfus fant, and Early Childhood Home Vis- Fitzpatrick Lewis (MN) [Roll No. 535] Rouzer iting Program, and pursuant to House Fleischmann LoBiondo Royce (CA) Resolution 533, he reported the bill AYES—191 Flores Loudermilk Russell Fortenberry Love back to the House with an amendment Adams Gabbard Nolan Rutherford Foxx Lucas Aguilar Gallego Sanford adopted in the Committee of the Norcross Franks (AZ) Luetkemeyer Barraga´ n Garamendi Schweikert Whole. O’Halleran Frelinghuysen MacArthur Bass Gomez Scott, Austin O’Rourke Gaetz Marchant The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Beatty Gonzalez (TX) Sensenbrenner Pallone Gallagher Marino the rule, the previous question is or- Bera Gottheimer Sessions Panetta Garrett Marshall Beyer Green, Al Shimkus dered. Pascrell Gianforte Massie Bishop (GA) Green, Gene Shuster Is a separate vote demanded on any Perlmutter Gibbs Mast Blumenauer Grijalva Simpson Peters Gohmert McCarthy amendment to the amendment re- Blunt Rochester Gutie´rrez Smith (MO) Peterson Goodlatte McCaul ported from the Committee of the Bonamici Hastings Smith (NE) Pingree Gosar McClintock Boyle, Brendan Heck Smith (NJ) Whole? Pocan Gowdy McHenry F. Higgins (NY) Smith (TX) If not, the question is on the amend- Polis Graves (GA) McKinley Brady (PA) Himes Smucker Price (NC) Graves (LA) McMorris ment in the nature of a substitute, as Brown (MD) Hoyer Stefanik Graves (MO) Rodgers amended. Brownley (CA) Huffman Quigley Griffith McSally Stewart Bustos Jackson Lee Raskin The amendment was agreed to. Grothman Meadows Stivers Butterfield Jayapal Rice (NY) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Guthrie Meehan Taylor Capuano Jeffries Richmond Handel Messer Tenney question is on the engrossment and Carbajal Johnson (GA) Rosen Harper Mitchell Thompson (PA) third reading of the bill. Ca´ rdenas Jones Roybal-Allard Harris Moolenaar Thornberry Carson (IN) Kaptur Ruiz The bill was ordered to be engrossed Hartzler Mooney (WV) Tipton Cartwright Keating Ruppersberger and read a third time, and was read the Hensarling Mullin Trott Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) Rush Herrera Beutler Murphy (PA) Turner third time. Castro (TX) Kennedy Ryan (OH) Hice, Jody B. Newhouse Upton Chu, Judy Khanna Sa´ nchez MOTION TO RECOMMIT Higgins (LA) Noem Valadao Cicilline Kihuen Sarbanes Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Speaker, I have a Hill Norman Wagner Clark (MA) Kildee Schakowsky Holding Nunes Walberg motion to recommit at the desk. Clarke (NY) Kilmer Schiff Hollingsworth Olson Walden The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is the Clay Kind Schneider Hudson Palazzo Walker Cleaver Krishnamoorthi gentlewoman opposed to the bill? Schrader Huizenga Palmer Walorski Clyburn Kuster (NH) Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Speaker, I am op- Scott (VA) Hultgren Paulsen Walters, Mimi Cohen Langevin Scott, David Hunter Pearce Weber (TX) posed in the current form. Connolly Larsen (WA) Serrano Hurd Perry Webster (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Conyers Larson (CT) Sewell (AL) Issa Pittenger Wenstrup Cooper Lawrence Clerk will report the motion to recom- Shea-Porter Jenkins (KS) Poe (TX) Westerman Correa Lawson (FL) Sherman Jenkins (WV) Poliquin Williams mit. Costa Lee Sinema Johnson (LA) Posey Wilson (SC) The Clerk read as follows: Courtney Levin Sires Johnson (OH) Ratcliffe Wittman Crist Lewis (GA) Ms. DelBene moves to recommit the bill Slaughter Jordan Reed Womack Crowley Lieu, Ted H.R. 2824 to the Committee on Ways and Smith (WA) Joyce (OH) Reichert Woodall Cuellar Lipinski Means with instructions to report the same Soto Katko Renacci Yoder Cummings Loebsack Speier Kelly (MS) Rice (SC) Yoho back to the House forthwith with the fol- Davis (CA) Lofgren Suozzi Kelly (PA) Roby Young (AK) lowing amendment: Davis, Danny Lowenthal Swalwell (CA) King (IA) Roe (TN) Young (IA) Strike sections 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 10. DeFazio Lowey Takano King (NY) Rogers (AL) Zeldin DeGette Lujan Grisham, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Thompson (CA) Delaney M. tlewoman from Washington is recog- Thompson (MS) NOT VOTING—11 DeLauro Luja´ n, Ben Ray nized for 5 minutes. DelBene Lynch Titus Bridenstine Johnson, Sam Ros-Lehtinen Demings Maloney, Tonko Granger Long Scalise b 1545 DeSaulnier Carolyn B. Torres Hanabusa Payne Tiberi Deutch Maloney, Sean Tsongas Johnson, E. B. Pelosi Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Speaker, this is Dingell Matsui Vargas the final amendment to the bill, which b 1540 Doggett McCollum Veasey will not kill the bill or send it back to Doyle, Michael McEachin Vela Messrs. LUETKEMEYER, POSEY, F. McGovern Vela´ zquez committee. If adopted, the bill will im- Ellison McNerney Visclosky WESTERMAN, CARTER of Texas, and mediately proceed to final passage, as Engel Meeks Walz RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois changed amended. Eshoo Meng Wasserman their vote from ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’ Like all my colleagues on this side of Espaillat Moore Schultz Ms. MATSUI, Messrs. LOEBSACK, Esty (CT) Moulton Waters, Maxine the aisle, I strongly support reauthor- Evans Murphy (FL) Watson Coleman EVANS, Mses. BLUNT ROCHESTER, ization of the home visiting program Foster Nadler Welch DEGETTE, KUSTER of New Hamp- before it expires on September 30. We Frankel (FL) Napolitano Wilson (FL) shire, Mr. RICHMOND, Mrs. NAPOLI- Fudge Neal Yarmuth know it has an incredible track record TANO, Ms. BROWNLEY of California, of success improving child and family NOES—231 Mr. VELA, Mses. VELA´ ZQUEZ, and outcomes in our most vulnerable com- Abraham Blum Collins (GA) ADAMS changed their vote from ‘‘no’’ munities. Aderholt Bost Collins (NY) to ‘‘aye.’’ We also support a timely reauthor- Allen Brady (TX) Comer Amash Brat Comstock So the amendment was rejected. ization of the program before its expi- Amodei Brooks (AL) Conaway The result of the vote was announced ration, to ensure families across the Arrington Brooks (IN) Cook as above recorded. country who are benefiting from home Babin Buchanan Costello (PA) The Acting CHAIR. The question is Bacon Buck Cramer visiting do not face a disruption in Banks (IN) Bucshon Crawford on the amendment in the nature of a services. Barletta Budd Culberson substitute, as amended. Unfortunately, Republicans have put Barr Burgess Curbelo (FL) The amendment was agreed to. forward a partisan bill with reckless Barton Byrne Davidson Bergman Calvert Davis, Rodney The Acting CHAIR. Under the rule, policy changes that are not supported Biggs Carter (GA) Denham the Committee rises. by experts and with only three legisla- Bilirakis Carter (TX) Dent Accordingly, the Committee rose; tive days remaining. It is incredibly Bishop (MI) Chabot DeSantis and the Speaker pro tempore (Mr. COL- disappointing, Mr. Speaker. Bishop (UT) Cheney DesJarlais Black Coffman Diaz-Balart LINS of Georgia) having assumed the Earlier this summer, I got to see Blackburn Cole Donovan chair, Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee, Acting firsthand how impactful this program

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.057 H26SEPT1 H7516 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 can be. The families who choose to par- Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speak- Pelosi Schakowsky Thompson (MS) ticipate receive regular home visits er, I claim the time in opposition to Perlmutter Schiff Titus Peters Schneider Tonko from nurses and social workers, often the motion to recommit the pending Peterson Schrader Torres from the same neighborhoods, who help bill. Pingree Scott (VA) Tsongas to create healthy and supportive home The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Pocan Scott, David Vargas Polis Serrano Veasey environments for children and parents tleman is recognized for 5 minutes. Price (NC) Sewell (AL) alike—parents like Jessie, from my Vela Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speak- Quigley Shea-Porter Vela´ zquez Raskin Sherman home State of Washington, who strug- er, I rise in opposition to the motion to Visclosky Rice (NY) Sinema gled before she got connected with recommit. This bill is the result of an Walz Richmond Sires Wasserman home visiting. open process. In fact, several amend- Rosen Slaughter Jessie says: ‘‘Home visiting changed ments were agreed to—in fact, one Roybal-Allard Smith (WA) Schultz Waters, Maxine my life and helped me break the cycle sponsored by my colleague who just Ruiz Soto of poor parenting.’’ Ruppersberger Speier Watson Coleman spoke—and so I think we should reject Rush Suozzi Welch The results can’t be denied. It has this procedural motion so we can move Ryan (OH) Swalwell (CA) Wilson (FL) been shown to reduce the likelihood of on to pass a good underlying bill with Sa´ nchez Takano Yarmuth child abuse and neglect by 50 percent, modest reforms. Sarbanes Thompson (CA) while, at the same time, reducing do- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance NOES—232 mestic violence, improving children’s of my time. Abraham Gibbs Newhouse school readiness, and increasing par- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without ents’ self-sufficiency and economic Aderholt Gohmert Noem objection, the previous question is or- Allen Goodlatte Norman well-being. dered on the motion to recommit. Amash Gosar Nunes It is precisely the kind of evidence- Amodei Gowdy There was no objection. Olson based model that we know gives us a Arrington Graves (GA) Palazzo The SPEAKER pro tempore. The great return. Unfortunately, there are Babin Graves (LA) Palmer question is on the motion to recommit. Bacon Graves (MO) huge unmet needs for home visiting Paulsen The question was taken; and the Banks (IN) Griffith Pearce services across the country. Last year, Barletta Grothman Perry Speaker pro tempore announced that Barr Guthrie more than 29,000 eligible families were Pittenger the noes appeared to have it. Barton Handel Poe (TX) unserved in Washington State alone. Bergman Harper RECORDED VOTE Poliquin That is why I am so disappointed this Biggs Harris Posey legislation fails to make the meaning- Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Speaker, I de- Bilirakis Hartzler mand a recorded vote. Bishop (MI) Hensarling Ratcliffe ful investments we need to lift more Reed A recorded vote was ordered. Bishop (UT) Herrera Beutler families out of poverty and into the Black Hice, Jody B. Reichert middle class. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Blackburn Higgins (LA) Renacci Democrats even offered a proposal to ant to clause 9 of rule XX, this 5- Blum Hill Rice (SC) double funding over 5 years, which was minute vote on the motion to recom- Bost Holding Roby Brady (TX) Hollingsworth Roe (TN) fully paid for, but the majority refused mit will be followed by a 5-minute vote Brat Hudson Rogers (AL) to allow a vote. Instead, they have in- on the passage of the bill, if ordered. Brooks (AL) Huizenga Rogers (KY) cluded objectionable policy changes The vote was taken by electronic de- Brooks (IN) Hultgren Rohrabacher that are not supported by experts who vice, and there were—ayes 191, noes 232, Buchanan Hunter Rokita Buck Hurd Rooney, Francis have said the bill’s matching require- not voting 10, as follows: Bucshon Issa Rooney, Thomas ment for States is the single greatest [Roll No. 536] Budd Jenkins (KS) J. Burgess Jenkins (WV) threat to home visiting. AYES—191 Roskam We should not be taking steps that Byrne Johnson (LA) Ross undermine the program or that reduce Adams DeGette Kildee Calvert Johnson (OH) Rothfus Aguilar Delaney Kilmer Carter (GA) Jones Rouzer ´ the number of States and communities Barragan DeLauro Kind Carter (TX) Jordan Royce (CA) that are working to help families Bass DelBene Krishnamoorthi Chabot Joyce (OH) Russell thrive. Beatty Demings Kuster (NH) Cheney Katko Rutherford Bera DeSaulnier Langevin Coffman Kelly (MS) Sanford We should also not have waited to Beyer Deutch Larsen (WA) Cole Kelly (PA) Schweikert consider this issue until days before Bishop (GA) Dingell Larson (CT) Collins (GA) King (IA) Scott, Austin Blumenauer Doggett Lawrence Collins (NY) King (NY) the program expires, like we have done Sensenbrenner with the Children’s Health Insurance Blunt Rochester Doyle, Michael Lawson (FL) Comer Kinzinger Bonamici F. Lee Comstock Knight Sessions Program, or CHIP, the Community Boyle, Brendan Ellison Levin Conaway Kustoff (TN) Shimkus Health Center Fund, the National F. Engel Lewis (GA) Cook Labrador Shuster Health Service Corps, and so many Brady (PA) Eshoo Lieu, Ted Costello (PA) LaHood Simpson Brown (MD) Espaillat Lipinski Cramer LaMalfa Smith (MO) other programs that are essential for Brownley (CA) Esty (CT) Loebsack Crawford Lamborn Smith (NE) the children and families that we rep- Bustos Evans Lofgren Culberson Lance Smith (NJ) resent. Butterfield Foster Lowenthal Curbelo (FL) Latta Smith (TX) It is unacceptable that so many pro- Capuano Frankel (FL) Lowey Davidson Lewis (MN) Smucker Carbajal Fudge Lujan Grisham, Davis, Rodney LoBiondo Stefanik grams are at risk due to Congressional Ca´ rdenas Gabbard M. Denham Loudermilk Stewart inaction. We need to do a better job of Carson (IN) Gallego Luja´ n, Ben Ray Dent Love Stivers providing families, States, and pro- Cartwright Garamendi Lynch DeSantis Lucas Taylor viders the long-term stability that Castor (FL) Gomez Maloney, DesJarlais Luetkemeyer Tenney Castro (TX) Gonzalez (TX) Carolyn B. Diaz-Balart MacArthur they need. Thompson (PA) Chu, Judy Gottheimer Maloney, Sean Donovan Marchant Thornberry My amendment is a step in the right Cicilline Green, Al Matsui Duffy Marino Tipton direction. It eliminates the bill’s dan- Clark (MA) Green, Gene McCollum Duncan (SC) Marshall Trott gerous policy changes and, instead, Clarke (NY) Grijalva McEachin Duncan (TN) Massie Turner Clay Gutie´rrez McGovern Dunn Mast Upton provides a clean, 5-year reauthoriza- Cleaver Hastings McNerney Emmer McCarthy Valadao Clyburn Heck Meeks Estes (KS) McCaul tion of the home visiting program, giv- Wagner ing States, counties, and Tribes the Cohen Higgins (NY) Meng Farenthold McClintock Connolly Himes Moore Faso McHenry Walberg tools and visibility they need to help Conyers Hoyer Moulton Ferguson McKinley Walden more children and families succeed. Cooper Huffman Murphy (FL) Fitzpatrick McMorris Walker I urge my colleagues on both sides of Correa Jackson Lee Nadler Fleischmann Rodgers Walorski the aisle to vote ‘‘yes.’’ Home visiting Costa Jayapal Napolitano Flores McSally Walters, Mimi Courtney Jeffries Neal Fortenberry Meadows Weber (TX) has a long history of bipartisan sup- Crist Johnson (GA) Nolan Foxx Meehan Webster (FL) port, and I hope we can come together Crowley Kaptur Norcross Franks (AZ) Messer Wenstrup to take the program forward, not back- Cuellar Keating O’Halleran Frelinghuysen Mitchell Westerman Cummings Kelly (IL) O’Rourke Gaetz Moolenaar Williams ward. Davis (CA) Kennedy Pallone Gallagher Mooney (WV) Wilson (SC) Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Davis, Danny Khanna Panetta Garrett Mullin Wittman of my time. DeFazio Kihuen Pascrell Gianforte Murphy (PA) Womack

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Woodall Yoho Young (IA) Ross Smith (NJ) Walberg ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Yoder Young (AK) Zeldin Rothfus Smith (TX) Walden The SPEAKER pro tempore (during NOT VOTING—10 Rouzer Smucker Walker the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Royce (CA) Stefanik Walorski ing. Bridenstine Johnson, Sam Scalise Russell Stewart Walters, Mimi Granger Long Tiberi Rutherford Stivers Weber (TX) b 1604 Hanabusa Payne Sanford Taylor Wenstrup Johnson, E. B. Ros-Lehtinen So the bill was passed. Schweikert Tenney Westerman The result of the vote was announced ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Scott, Austin Thompson (PA) Williams as above recorded. The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Sensenbrenner Thornberry Wilson (SC) A motion to reconsider was laid on Sessions Tipton Wittman the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Shimkus Trott Womack the table. ing. Shuster Turner Woodall Stated for: Simpson Upton Yoder Mr. TIBERI. Mr. Speaker, on roll call No. b 1558 Smith (MO) Valadao Young (AK) 537 (Passage of H.R. 2824—Increasing Op- Smith (NE) Wagner Zeldin portunity and Success for Children and Par- Mr. ADERHOLT changed his vote ents through Evidence-Based Home Visiting from ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’ NOES—209 Act), I did not cast my vote. Had I been So the motion to recommit was re- Adams Gaetz Neal present, I would have voted ‘‘yea’’ on passage jected. Aguilar Gallego Nolan of this bill. The result of the vote was announced Amash Garamendi Norcross PERSONAL EXPLANATION as above recorded. Arrington Garrett O’Halleran Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, due to a per- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Barraga´ n Gomez O’Rourke Bass Gonzalez (TX) Pallone sonal conflict, I was unable to make votes. question is on the passage of the bill. Had I been present, I would have voted: The question was taken; and the Beatty Gosar Panetta Bera Gottheimer ‘‘Yea’’ on rollcall No. 532, ‘‘Yea’’ on rollcall No. Speaker pro tempore announced that Pascrell Beyer Green, Al Pelosi 533, ‘‘Yea’’ on rollcall No. 534, ‘‘Nay’’ on roll- the ayes appeared to have it. Biggs Green, Gene Perlmutter call No. 535, ‘‘Nay’’ on rollcall No. 536, ‘‘Yea’’ RECORDED VOTE Bishop (GA) Griffith Perry on rollcall No. 537. Blumenauer Grijalva Peters Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. ´ f Blunt Rochester Gutierrez Pingree Speaker, I demand a recorded vote. Bonamici Harris REMOVAL OF NAME OF MEMBER A recorded vote was ordered. Pocan Boyle, Brendan Hastings Polis AS COSPONSOR OF H.R. 3005 F. The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Heck Price (NC) Brady (PA) Hice, Jody B. Mr. O’HALLERAN. Mr. Speaker, I 5-minute vote. Quigley Brat Higgins (NY) The vote was taken by electronic de- Raskin ask unanimous consent that my name Brooks (AL) Himes vice, and there were—ayes 214, noes 209, Rice (NY) be removed as a cosponsor of H.R. 3005. Brown (MD) Hoyer Richmond The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. not voting 10, as follows: Brownley (CA) Huffman Rooney, Francis DUNN). Is there objection to the request [Roll No. 537] Bustos Jackson Lee Rosen of the gentleman from Arizona? AYES—214 Butterfield Jayapal Capuano Jeffries Roybal-Allard There was no objection. Abraham Emmer Latta Carbajal Johnson (GA) Ruiz f Aderholt Estes (KS) Lewis (MN) Ruppersberger Ca´ rdenas Jones APPOINTMENT OF INDIVIDUAL TO Allen Farenthold LoBiondo Carson (IN) Jordan Rush Amodei Faso Loudermilk Cartwright Kaptur Ryan (OH) THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE Babin Ferguson Love Castor (FL) Keating Sa´ nchez DRUG POLICY COMMISSION Bacon Fitzpatrick Lucas Castro (TX) Kelly (IL) Sarbanes Banks (IN) Fleischmann Luetkemeyer The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Chu, Judy Kennedy Schakowsky Barletta Flores MacArthur Chair announces the Speaker’s ap- Cicilline Khanna Schiff Barr Fortenberry Marchant Clark (MA) Schneider pointment, pursuant to section 603 of Barton Foxx Marino Kihuen Schrader the Department of State Authorities Bergman Franks (AZ) Marshall Clarke (NY) Kildee Scott (VA) Bilirakis Frelinghuysen Mast Clay Kilmer Act, Fiscal Year 2017 (Pub.L. 114–323), Bishop (MI) Gallagher McCarthy Cleaver Kind Scott, David and the order of the House of January Bishop (UT) Gianforte McCaul Clyburn Krishnamoorthi Serrano 3, 2017, of the following individual on Black Gibbs McClintock Cohen Kuster (NH) Sewell (AL) the part of the House to the Western Blackburn Gohmert McHenry Connolly Langevin Shea-Porter Hemisphere Drug Policy Commission: Blum Goodlatte McKinley Conyers Larsen (WA) Sherman Mr. Matt Salmon of Mesa, Arizona Bost Gowdy McMorris Cooper Larson (CT) Sinema Brady (TX) Graves (GA) Rodgers Correa Lawrence Sires f Brooks (IN) Graves (LA) McSally Costa Lawson (FL) Slaughter CONGRATULATING DR. RORY Buchanan Graves (MO) Meadows Courtney Lee Smith (WA) COOPER Buck Grothman Meehan Crist Levin Soto Bucshon Guthrie Messer Crowley Lewis (GA) Speier (Mr. ROTHFUS asked and was given Budd Handel Mitchell Cummings Lieu, Ted Suozzi permission to address the House for 1 Burgess Harper Moolenaar Davis (CA) Lipinski Swalwell (CA) minute and to revise and extend his re- Byrne Hartzler Mooney (WV) Davis, Danny Loebsack Takano marks.) Calvert Hensarling Mullin DeFazio Lofgren Thompson (CA) Carter (GA) Herrera Beutler Murphy (PA) Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise DeGette Lowenthal Thompson (MS) Carter (TX) Higgins (LA) Newhouse today to recognize an Army veteran Delaney Lowey Titus Chabot Hill Noem DeLauro and University of Pittsburgh engineer, Lujan Grisham, Tonko Cheney Holding Norman DelBene M. Torres Dr. Rory Cooper, for his achievements Coffman Hollingsworth Nunes Demings Luja´ n, Ben Ray Tsongas and impact on society. Cole Hudson Olson DeSaulnier Lynch Vargas While serving as a soldier, Rory was Collins (GA) Huizenga Palazzo Deutch Maloney, Veasey injured in an accident that left him Collins (NY) Hultgren Palmer Dingell Carolyn B. Comer Hunter Paulsen Doggett Maloney, Sean Vela paralyzed from the waist down. Despite ´ Comstock Hurd Pearce Doyle, Michael Massie Velazquez the challenges presented by his dis- Conaway Issa Peterson F. Matsui Visclosky ability, Dr. Cooper earned his Ph.D. in Cook Jenkins (KS) Pittenger Duncan (TN) McCollum Walz electrical and computer science from Costello (PA) Jenkins (WV) Poe (TX) Ellison McEachin Wasserman Cramer Johnson (LA) Poliquin Schultz the University of California, Santa Engel McGovern Barbara. His education and passion for Crawford Johnson (OH) Posey Eshoo McNerney Waters, Maxine Cuellar Joyce (OH) Ratcliffe Espaillat Meeks Watson Coleman helping others with disabilities led him Culberson Katko Reed Esty (CT) Meng Webster (FL) to found the Human Engineering Re- Curbelo (FL) Kelly (MS) Reichert Evans Moore Welch search Laboratories at the University Davidson Kelly (PA) Renacci Foster Moulton Wilson (FL) of Pittsburgh. Davis, Rodney King (IA) Rice (SC) Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) Yarmuth Denham King (NY) Roby Along with his team of researchers, Fudge Nadler Yoho Dent Kinzinger Roe (TN) Dr. Cooper is credited with 25 patents Gabbard Napolitano Young (IA) DeSantis Knight Rogers (AL) that have significantly advanced DesJarlais Kustoff (TN) Rogers (KY) NOT VOTING—10 wheelchair technology and benefited Diaz-Balart Labrador Rohrabacher tens of thousands of veterans. Donovan LaHood Rokita Bridenstine Johnson, Sam Scalise Mr. Speaker, this week, Dr. Cooper Duffy LaMalfa Rooney, Thomas Granger Long Tiberi Duncan (SC) Lamborn J. Hanabusa Payne will be presented with the Samuel J. Dunn Lance Roskam Johnson, E. B. Ros-Lehtinen Heyman Service to America Medal. I

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:12 Oct 03, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\H26SE7.REC H26SE7 H7518 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 thank Dr. Cooper for his work and con- HELP FELLOW AMERICANS IN trict field hearing to hear firsthand ac- gratulate him on this achievement. PUERTO RICO counts from America’s workers, my f (Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- constituents, on NAFTA’s disastrous job impacts. These voices must be DISAPPEARANCE OF MEXICAN sylvania asked and was given permis- heard and listened to as our Nation re- STUDENTS NEEDS MORE INVES- sion to address the House for 1 minute negotiates NAFTA. These real stories TIGATION and to revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- are the people who live the impacts of (Mr. LOWENTHAL asked and was vania. Mr. Speaker, we are right now Washington’s agreements. given permission to address the House witnessing a humanitarian crisis—not I thank the Local United Auto Work- for 1 minute and to revise and extend in some far-flung corner of the world, ers Chapter 1250 for graciously hosting his remarks.) but right here at home. Mr. Speaker, us, a region that lost over 14,500 jobs Mr. LOWENTHAL. Mr. Speaker, 3 31⁄2 million of our fellow Americans in after NAFTA’s passage to Mexico and years ago today, 43 students from Puerto Rico, fellow U.S. citizens, are to Latin America. Ayotzinapa, Mexico, disappeared. Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD I recently traveled to Mexico where I without water and without electricity, cut off from the rest of the world. the testimony of Amy Hanauer of Pol- spoke with many of their parents and icy Matters Ohio, Donnie Blatt of the the family members of the students These are our fellow Americans. Puerto Ricans are just as American United Steelworkers, and Mark Payne who disappeared. I was humbled by the as we are. They have fought in every of the United Auto Workers. strength that they show. After a 3-year single one of our American wars. They AMY HANAUER, POLICY MATTERS OHIO struggle, they have asked for answers need our help now. This is what we do to two simple questions: What hap- Representative Kaptur and others, thank best as Americans. you for the opportunity to testify today pened that night when their children When there is a crisis, we come to- alongside these strong community leaders. were taken; and where are they now? gether and help our fellow Americans. I’m Amy Hanauer and I run Policy Matters On this third anniversary of their We must act now. This should be the Ohio, a policy research institute dedicated to loss, I am repeating my past calls for number one priority of Congress and creating a more vibrant equitable, sustain- the Mexican Government to prioritize able, and inclusive Ohio. Find us online at the White House this week, and we their search for the students, to bring www.policymattersohio.org. should not leave here until we have let justice to those responsible for their Trade and jobs in Ohio: Key principles to the millions of people in Puerto Rico disappearance, and to investigate any improve outcomes for workers know that we will be there for them. NAFTA and other trade agreements have obstruction of justice. f eliminated jobs in Ohio and the United If the Mexican Government cannot States. Manufacturing remains an essential do this, I urge them to allow the inde- b 1615 part of Ohio’s economy, despite its down- pendent panel of experts to expand on HONORING GOLD STAR MOTHERS turn. Smart policy can strengthen Ohio man- their initial investigation. The stu- ufacturing while making our economy dents, their parents, and the Mexican (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania greener and stronger Some key recommenda- people deserve answers. asked and was given permission to ad- tions include: dress the House for 1 minute and to re- Invest in infrastructure, particularly clean f vise and extend his remarks.) energy CHRONIC ABSENTEEISM IS A Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. Invest in solar panels and wind turbines CONCERNING TREND Mr. Speaker, Sunday marked a special Structure these projects carefully, prioritizing good jobs and diverse workers (Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER asked and kind of Mother’s Day: Gold Star Moth- Support American manufacturing through was given permission to address the er’s Day. Since 1936, the Nation has ob- proven programs House for 1 minute and to revise and served Gold Star Mother’s Day on the Support manufacturing extension pro- extend her remarks.) last Sunday in September. The Presi- grams Ms. HERRERA BEUTLER. Mr. dent humbly proclaimed Gold Star Buy American when spending public dol- Speaker, September is the time when Mother’s and Families’ Day this Sun- lars students return back to school, and it day, September 24. Support smart worker training Our Gold Star Mothers should be Improve trade agreements also marks Attendance Awareness Increase worker protections Month. honored and offered respect and grati- Improve environmental standards Chronic absenteeism is a concerning tude for their personal sacrifice. Gold Eliminate special courts trend in my district in southwest Star Mother’s Day is intended to pay As we have long documented at Policy Washington State and across America. tribute to women who have experienced Matter, the North American Free Trade In the 2013–2014 school year, more than tremendous personal loss on behalf of Agreement and other trade agreements have 6.8 million students missed enough our country. not accomplished what they were supposed class to be considered chronically ab- Mr. Speaker, our Gold Star Mothers to in Ohio. Our current trade rules favor serve as a strength and inspiration for multi-national corporations and their inves- sent. tor over workers and citizens. As a result, My State of Washington has the sec- this country. They are part of an exclu- these policies have reduced the quantity and ond highest chronic absenteeism rate sive group, one that no one ever hopes quality of domestic jobs, thereby exacer- in the country, with 25 percent of stu- to belong to. One can hardly imagine bating wealth inequality. Many multi- dents being chronically absent. We can the deep pain and anguish that a moth- national corporations that once employed do better. er experiences when losing a child, par- people here have instead located in places To understand the challenges locally, ticularly in military action. with lower wages, fewer environmental regu- I recently met with several super- May we always honor the Gold Star lations, and weaker labor regulations. intendents in southwest Washington, Mothers of America for their courage, NAFTTA rules made that shift easier. and there are a myriad of issues that One reason these deals have been so de- their strength, and their sacrifice. structive is that they transfer power away these students are facing. They bear their cross with honor. The from citizens and to international investors. We are trying to address some of memory of their children lives on not They bar nations, states, and cities from en- these with H.R. 1864, the Chronic Ab- only in their hearts, but in the heart of acting labor and environmental policies that senteeism Reduction Act, which I have this Nation. protect the public. They block local govern- introduced with my Democratic col- f ments from using policy to boost demand for league, TIM RYAN from Ohio. domestic products, such as local sourcing. This bill would empower schools to TRADE AND JOBS HEARING IN NAFTA was promoted as being broadly solve attendance problems locally, BROOK PARK, OHIO helpful to Americans and our trading part- using such tactics as partnering with (Ms. KAPTUR asked and was given ners. But the economist Susan Helper recently testified that NAFTA slowed wage local health, transportation, and social permission to address the House for 1 growth in U.S. industries and regions. This service providers, and implementing minute and to revise and extend her re- hurt not just manufacturing workers, but school-based mentoring programs. marks.) also service employees, as displaced manu- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, during facturing workers sought jobs in restaurants cosponsor this bill. the August recess, I organized a dis- and retail and as laid-off workers had less to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.066 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7519 spend in the economy. In Mexico as well, These projects should be structured care- representatives have little ability to object wages stayed mostly flat even though pro- fully. There are sound principles at the to sweatshop conditions or labor law viola- ductivity increased. Mexican manufacturing website millionsofjobs.org that I encourage tions. At most they can call for consulta- wages remain well under 20% of U.S. manu- you to look at, but some of the elements we tions that have no enforcement mechanisms. facturing wages. support include supporting direct public in- Investors have much more power to object The Economic Policy Institute found that vestment, not tax giveaways for corporate and much stronger mechanisms to do so. NAFTA cost the U.S. 683,000 jobs from 1994 to subsidies and making sure that these Worker representatives from all countries in 2010. Manufacturing, as a sector, lost the projects are union-built, have inclusive an agreement should be brought in to pro- most, 60.8 percent. Geographically, Midwest workforces that represent the diversity of pose standards. I encourage this committee states like Ohio took the hardest hit. the communities in which they’re being to consul the AFL–CIO (2017) and the Roo- NAFTA also displaced Mexican small farm- done, and have worker and environmental sevelt Institute (Tucker, 2017) about how ers and business owners, and did not raise protections. SA mentioned, all of these best to remedy this in renegotiation. wages relative the U.S. Despite that, the projects should pay decent wages, should Improve environmental protection. Envi- treaty became a model for the World Trade source from U.S. made products, and should ronmental protections in NAFTA are rel- Organization, China trade normalization, prioritize the needs of disadvantaged com- egated to side agreements with no enforce- and other deals As a result of all of these, munities—both urban and rural. Finally, ment provisions. This is why we’ve seen economist Jeff Faux estimates an additional these projects should be paid for through more use of polluting fossil fuels, less protec- net loss of 2.7 million U.S. jobs and econo- fair, progressive taxes so that the wealthiest tion of greenspace and forests, and more mist Josh Bivens found that the typical Americans and giant corporations who reap deeply problematic mining since NAFTA. American with just high school degree loses the greatest economic benefit from public Other testimony today provides more detail $1,800 a year. goods pay their fair share. on how best to address environmental con- Manufacturing has declined, but remains Support American manufacturing through cerns, but minimally, those who breathe the an essential part of Ohio’s economy. One in proven programs: air, drink the water, and suffer from global eight Ohio employees works in manufac- Manufacturing Extension Partnerships warming should have as much power as turing. We had 687,000 manufacturing work- (MEPs) help manufacturers work together to multination corporations to raise their ers in 2015: only California and Texas have solve problems and find solutions to assist issues. (350.org et. Al, 2017) more. Average wages of $1,119 a week were their sector. They assist with research and Eliminate special courts for investors. 24.9 percent higher than in other sectors. development, commercialization, joint mar- NAFTA established special courts where Ohio manufacturers contributed $108 billion keting and branding, worker training, identi- firms can challenge government policies that to the economy in 2015, 17.8 percent of the fying new technology, share investments total for the state. So that sector is respon- affect their investments. These ‘‘investor- like makerspaces, and reshoring. The federal state dispute settlement’’ (ISDS) mecha- sible for one in every six dollars and one in government should deepen investments in every eight jobs in Ohio. The typical worker nisms undermine democracy and national MEPs. Instead President Trump’s budget sovereignty. This system should be elimi- with a high school diploma and no college proposal threatens to entirely eliminate this earns $2.99 more per hour in manufacturing. nated so that citizens again have the ability modest but successful program. Similarly, to advocate for the laws they think will best While the sector has generally lost employ- the manufacturing innovation institutes ment over the past several decades and in protect their communities. that have been so successful, including one In sum, there is much that federal policy the most recent recession, some signs point in Youngstown, face 70% cuts in the Trump to a partial recovery. Good policy, including can do to create fair trade, to promote Amer- budget. ican manufacturing, and to improve job trade policy, can make this more likely. Buy American: We should Buy America There are clear things we can do to improve quality and availability. We decide the kind provisions for all public spending at all lev- of economy we want to have and we can policy so that workers and the environment els of government. Senators Rob Portman on all sides of the border are better pro- choose one that does more for our families, and Sherrod Brown have both voiced support communities, and planet. We appreciate tected. for these important provisions and I would At Policy Matters, we recommend three your interest in exploring and further those urge you to join in that support. The Trump large policy priorities to address these policies. Administration should apply Buy America to issues: all federally-funded infrastructure projects. Invest in infrastructure, especially energy: DONNIE BLATT, ASSISTANT TO THE DIRECTOR, President Trump’s intent in this area is not America’s infrastructure is crumbling UNITED STEELWORKERS—DISTRICT 1 entirely clear and we should encourage him around us and we are completely under- I would like to thank the sponsors for invested in infrastructure that would reduce to make good on promise he has made to support American products. While Buy holding this event, UAW Local 1250 and its energy use and address other environmental officers and of course our great Congress- problems. We should get to work now, up- America rules apply to some federal infra- woman MARCY KAPTUR. Congresswoman grading, maintain, and building infrastruc- structure programs, many taxpayer-funded KAPTUR has been a great public servant for ture that would strengthen our communities projects still lack rules requiring the use of American-made projects. Brown’s proposed many years and has been a great friend to and make our planet more sustainable, and the United Steelworkers, not only in her we should make sure that American products legislation would ensure Buy America rules apply to all federally-assisted projects. Congressional District but all over Ohio and are used throughout these projects. To name our Nation. I want to thank her personally a few priorities: Invest in worker training: The Workforce for her role in the re-negotiation of the We should install solar panels on every Investment and Opportunity Act, WIOA, North American Free Trade Agreement public building in the United States, buying trains and educates workers, focusing on ca- from American companies and having union- reer pathways and apprenticeships. By incor- (NAFTA). The United Steelworkers have ized tradespeople do the installation. Right porating a strong understanding of the labor been involved in the trade debate since here in Cleveland there are entrepreneurs market, WIOA is transforming the workforce NAFTA was incepted in 1994 and we are selling solar panels and they argue that even system for those who face significant bar- happy for include our voice going forward to here in snowy Cleveland, many residential riers to employment. The act pushes the again try to make trade competitive and fair solar installations now pay for themselves in public sector to better serve low-skilled, low- for all workers, not just in the United less than a decade and commercial systems income adults so they can achieve not just States, but for the workers of our trading will pay for themselve in less than six years. self-sufficiency, but real economic mobility. partners as well. Representative Kaptur is a longtime cham- Ohio trains have been working hard to take As an International Union that represents pion of this approach, and Toledo, with its advantage of these new approaches. For Ohio workers in a wide range of sectors, not just extensive glass-making history, has a strong workers who face barriers to employment steel but aluminum, tire and rubber, glass, supply chain that could play a key role in and tough job markets, it’s essential that we paper, auto parts, fabrication, public sector this work. all deliver. Yet, this program too is on the and many more. We have a wide range of We should be installing wind turbines chopping block under the Trump Adminis- knowledge on trade and how trade affects wherever appropriate, using Ohio’s substan- tration. The Trump budget calls for cuts of not only the U.S. workers, but also the com- tial supply chain to produce component approximately $1 billion from the WIOA pro- munities where they live. The biggest prob- parts for these turbines. Here in Cleveland, gram. The cuts represent about a 40 percent lem with NAFTA and similar trade agree- we continue to want to see the Lake Erie reduction from current funding levels and ments is that it allowed for multi-national Economic Development Company project would have devastating impacts on states corporations to shift jobs wherever workers build the first fresh water wind farm in the and local communities seeking to address can be exploited and environmental regula- country on Lake Erie. We got some great the kill needs of businesses and jobseekers. tions are the weakest. Even with the prom- news just this week that this project cleared Instead of cutting WIOA, we should be en- ises of great economic growth for all the U.S. another hurdle and is moving forward—but hancing it. Labor Department certified nearly 1 million movement has been much slower than need- Improve trade agreements. This encom- manufacturing jobs has been lost just with ed because public policy at the federal and passes three primary provisions. the NAFTA agreement alone. state level just down no incentivize this kind Increase worker protections. NAFTA has With NAFTA and other NAFTA-style trade of job-creating energy-generating invest- reduced bargaining power for workers in policies such as Permanent Normal Trade ment. both the U.S. and Mexico. Workers and their Relations with China (PNTR), the Central

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.031 H26SEPT1 H7520 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 America Free Trade Agreement (CAFTA) advisors dictating the terms of the Agree- for supporting good paying jobs in America and the Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement ment. This creates too many conflicts of in- once again. Congresswoman, Spread our mes- (KORUS), the United States has closed terests. They must be transparent and ex- sage! The UAW has your back! roughly 60,000 manufacturing facilities here posed to public scrutiny. The United Steel- Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, they di- at home. To put things into perspective, this workers stand ready to lend their voice and rectly know the negative impacts of represents 3 times the number of people that resources to ensure these points are part of live here in Brook Park, OH. If you would go any NAFTA renegotiations. Thank You Con- NAFTA. Amy stressed the changing around Brook Park today, every man you gressman KAPTUR for your work and your nature of manufacturing in Ohio, mak- would see would be equal to 3 manufacturing consideration. ing up one of eight jobs. Donnie dis- facilities closed, for every woman you would cussed how Ohio has lost over 300,000 see would be equal to 3 manufacturing facili- NAFTA HEARING, MARK PAYNE manufacturing jobs as well as the im- ties closed and for every child you would see I am here to talk about manufacturing in perative for a new NAFTA transparent would be equal to 3 manufacturing facilities Cleveland and the effect NAFTA has had on agreement. Mark Payne spoke about closed. The 60,000 closed facilities equates to our Site. At one time our Site had over 14,000 around 5 million lost manufacturing jobs. the need for a continental living wage workers. Our Aluminum Plant phased out and investment in American job This number represents the entire popu- 2005 and the equipment was loaded up and lation of the states of Montana, Idaho, Wyo- sent to Cifunza, Mexico. growth. All three emphasized a deal ming, North Dakota and South Dakota com- Our Casting Plant phased out in 2010 and that works for jobs here in America, bined. It’s not just about manufacturing its work was sent to Mexico and Tupy, America’s workers, and Buy American jobs, the U.S. has also experienced job loss in Brazil. Engine Plant 2 Phased out in 2012 and provisions. the sectors of computer programming, call is now sitting idle. This Plant won the Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues centers, engineering and service sector jobs Shingo Award for best quality! as well and many other employment sectors. and the administration to take heed of What is the common denominator here? their testimony. We need to create jobs In Ohio alone, since NAFTA, we have lost Bad Trade Agreements!!!! over 300,000 manufacturing jobs which is We battled against the EPA Restrictions in here in America and across this con- more than every man woman and child that the Casting Plant. We fought against low tinent that are living wage jobs. lives in the city of Cincinnati. wages from other countries. f Along with the jobs that are lost directly How do you compete against poverty in manufacturing, there are effects to the wages? Against lax EPA standards from SALUTING THE LIFE AND SERVICE local community. First, because manufac- other countries? Against a lack of invest- OF FORMER MARINE AND ONEI- turing jobs typically pay more than other ment in America? DA COUNTY DEPUTY SHERIFF jobs in the area, when they are lost there is Across from our Union Hall once stood our KURT B. WYMAN a natural downward pressure that is put on Casting Plant, it is now just an open field (Ms. TENNEY asked and was given wages and benefits to remaining jobs in the . . . Was it dirty work, yes, but it was our immediate area. Secondly, the combination work!!! permission to address the House for 1 of the lost manufacturing jobs and the down- Our workers know the effects of a bad minute and to revise and extend her reward pressure on the remaining jobs means Trade Agreement! marks.) less money for the community tax base, But, we did not have a Level Playing field! Ms. TENNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise which affects the schools, police and fire de- Trade Agreements seeks to drive down our partments, roads and bridges and other pub- today to salute Deputy Kurt B. wages in a race to the bottom. The current Wyman, a Marine Corps veteran and lic services. This means the public sector Mexican auto worker wage has even fallen workers are left struggling to maintain a de- under NAFTA, from $3.95 an hour to $2.93 an Oneida County sheriff’s deputy who cent standard of living for their families. hour. was killed in the line of duty in 2011 at Donald Trump has been right to highlight With fair competition we have proven that only 24 years old. NAFTA and the impact it has had on our we will excel in the global marketplace. But Deputy Wyman served with distinc- trade deficit. Yet his administration has we must have a living wage for a fair day of tion in Iraq, earning the Iraqi Cam- failed to propose the bold changes needed to work. We must invest in America. paign Medal, Sea Service Deployment properly replace NAFTA, reduce our trade The problem is our Trade agreements ‘‘per- deficit, and create more manufacturing jobs Ribbon, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, ception’’ of progress, without making any. and the Navy and Marine Corps that would raise wages for workers at home The problem is our trade agreements reward and abroad, as was promised. Companies that take work out of America. Achievement Medal. During his service There are conditions needed in future trade Are the Trade agreements unlocking the in the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, agreements that the Trump Administration opportunities for America or are we just wid- he was named Rookie of the Year and has not committed to, to make trade fair ening the lane for our jobs to leave America? earned the Grand Cordon Medal twice. and a level playing field. First, we a strong Trades Agreements has cost Ohio over Following his tragic death, the Dep- and enforceable labor and environmental 323,000 manufacturing jobs. Under NAFTA standard that will not only lift wages and uty Kurt B. Wyman Foundation was the trade imbalance in the auto sector has created to celebrate and honor his dis- protect jobs here at home, but will lift work- grown from $3.5 billon in 1993 to $45.1 billion ing conditions abroad. So far the Trump Ad- in 2016. tinguished life of service to our com- ministration only seeks to use the weak and Ford will say that they were only fol- munity and our Nation. Through the unenforceable standards from previous lowing their ‘‘Way Forward’’ Strategy. For foundation’s efforts, the Deputy Kurt agreements. Second, we ned to end investor Cleveland NAFTA has been a job killing B. Wyman Memorial Park in state protections that make it easier for strategy. Whitestown was constructed as a re- multi-national corporations to shift jobs No one can tell me that low wages mixed source for local families. overseas and end investor state dispute set- with lax EPA standards was not a part of Each year, an annual fall festival and tlements that allow corporations to sue the Ford’s ‘‘Way Forward’’ decision to relocate United States taxpayers because of a law our work. a motorcycle ride are held at the park that may protect its citizens yet may in- Nothing stings worse than having your to honor and remember Deputy crease corporate production costs. Third, we jobs moved to another country produce the Wyman’s legacy. I am honored to be need stronger rules of origin laws and close product you used to make, and have that joined by so many others who are the back door that allows parts made in same product brought back into this Coun- grateful citizens by riding my own Har- China and Vietnam and assembled in the try for us to buy. ley-Davidson in this beautiful tribute United States and labeled made in the USA In Cleveland, we are slowly coming back, to Deputy Wyman each year. in order to get tariff relief protection. Tariff we produce the 3.5 and 3.7 V–6 Ecoboost en- deduction should not be granted unless the gines and we were able to accomplish a ‘‘re- Please join me and our entire com- majority of the product is made here at verse NAFTA’, bring work from Spain to munity today in celebrating the life of home. Lastly, we need to end the NAFTA Cleveland when we launched a new 4 cyl en- Deputy Kurt B. Wyman, who paid the ban on ‘‘Buy America’’ so tax dollars can be gine. We are also slated to produce the en- ultimate sacrifice in service to our used as much as possible to create jobs that gine from the New Ranger/Bronco vehicles community and this great Nation. local communities desperately need. The coming out in 2019. f White House plan to renegotiate NAFTA is Work coming back to Cleveland is like vague on these four points. If the NAFTA re- Lebron James coming back to the Cavs. PUERTO RICO IS FACING A negotiations process is going to benefit They should have never left! Ohio is a great HUMANITARIAN CRISIS place for work to come to . . . no social un- American workers we have to hold the White (Mr. ESPAILLAT asked and was House more accountable for these promised rest, just hard working men and women from changes and more. a blue collar town, building quality engines. given permission to address the House Finally, the NAFTA renegotiations cannot In closing, I want to thank Congresswoman for 1 minute and to revise and extend be done behind closed doors with corporate Marcy Kaptur for fighting the good fight and his remarks.)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:54 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.032 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7521 Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, Puer- nally decided to cancel the vote on a Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, the people to Rico is facing a humanitarian crisis. disastrous health bill that could have of Puerto Rico are crying out for help, Puerto Rico is in desperate need for us upended insurance markets and caused and these American citizens need to assist them. Hurricane Maria, soon 3.2 million Floridians to lose coverage, America’s help. Whenever there is a after Hurricane Irma, has left a trail of increased premiums in my State by an disaster anywhere in the country, we destruction for Puerto Rico’s residents. average of $4,000, and destroyed over need to move fast. We moved fast when Currently, 3.5 million American citi- 180,000 Florida jobs. there was a disaster in Texas recently, zens in Puerto Rico are without power, Now, not only did this process threat- which we unanimously supported. 20,000 people are on a waiting list to en the health and financial security of We cannot afford to wait. People are leave the island, and about $85 billion tens of millions of Americans, it also dying. Every day it gets worse. There is needed in recovery funds. delayed reauthorization of the Chil- is lack of food, lack of water, lack of The island and its towns have been dren’s Health Insurance Program. safety, and lack of electricity. These completely cut off by water flooding, CHIP expires at the end of this week, are American citizens. We cannot just broken bridges, lack of electricity, and but renewing it has taken a backseat allow this to continue to happen. no cell phone service. As a result, there to a cruel health bill motivated by a We must help the people of Puerto are displaced senior citizens and chil- political vendetta and the hope of Rico and help the people in the U.S. dren who cannot get basic goods and unlocking billions from campaign Virgin Islands, who are also American medical supplies. megadonors. citizens, as well as people in all of the The people of Puerto Rico need sup- It is time for Congress to get back to islands. plemental funding not next week, but work on CHIP, a program that ensures It is just a crisis of tremendous pro- today. The Jones Act must be waived. nearly 9 million kids get access to portion, and we have to help—not to- Price gouging by airlines should not be care—375,000 of them in Florida. It has morrow, not next week, but imme- allowed. Clean water needs to be only become stronger since the passage diately. These people need our help. We shipped to the island, and hospitals of the Affordable Care Act. need to save Puerto Rico, save the U.S. Virgin Islands, and help and save the need to be set up. I hope my colleagues in the majority It is our responsibility as Members of will waste no time in joining me in islands of the Caribbean, as we have Congress and U.S. citizens to provide supporting this vital program. Let’s done so many times around the world. Let’s do it now. Let’s do it quickly. relief to Puerto Rico, the Virgin Is- help our children, let’s reauthorize People are waiting for us. We don’t lands, and the small Caribbean coun- CHIP, and let’s do it this week. want to wait until people are dying. tries in that area. Please, let’s save f Puerto Rico. f HURRICANE HARVEY f MAJOR HURRICANES (Mr. CARTER of Texas asked and was The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under HURRICANE HARVEY BRINGS NEW given permission to address the House LIFE the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- for 1 minute and to revise and extend uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Cali- (Mr. POE of Texas asked and was his remarks.) fornia (Mr. GARAMENDI) is recognized Mr. CARTER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, given permission to address the House for 60 minutes as the designee of the for 1 minute and to revise and extend Harvey took a lot away from us, but it minority leader. his remarks.) couldn’t take away who we are as Tex- Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, to Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, as ans. It has shown our resilience and my colleagues in the House of Rep- Hurricane Harvey’s hammering flood- brought our communities closer to- resentatives, most of whom are not waters crept closer and closer to their gether as we rebuild. here right now but perhaps they are home, Annie and her husband, Gary, I am very proud of our volunteers back in their office listening, and real- became nervously anxious because, you and first responders who have shown ly to the American public and folks see, Annie was pregnant and needed to hospitality and heroism to support our here in the Chamber, it has been a get to the hospital. neighbors in need. When disaster most interesting week—well, actually, But the 2-mile drive to the hospital struck, Texans came from across the the last 3 weeks. was no longer possible due to high ris- State to help our communities rebuild The United States has been hit with ing water. So they called 911, but the and recover from this storm. three major hurricanes. In Houston, lines were busy. Both doctors in train- In my district, central Texans set up they say was a 500-year storm. The ing, the Smiths started preparing for a evacuation shelters and donated cloth- Florida Keys, the Virgin Islands, Puer- home delivery. Finally, a call to ing and other necessary supplies. Our to Rico, disasters beyond, in many Annie’s school brought a rescue team soldiers at Fort Hood and our local fire cases, human understanding. We have to their door. But the waters were still and rescue teams headed southeast to never seen 50 inches of rain in a matter high and moving fast. assist in lifesaving recovery missions of days. Risking their own lives, numerous because that is what Texans do: we We have seen storms in the Carib- neighbors and firefighters formed a come together to support one another. bean that have been vicious. I don’t be- human life chain, passing Annie along I know we will continue to work to- lieve we have ever seen one that com- in the raging floodwaters to a high- gether as we rebuild after Harvey and pletely wiped out an island, leaving 3.5 water truck. A few hours later, Annie in the face of anything that comes our million people without water and brought new life—Adrielle Smith—into way. power, islands in the Florida Keys flat- the world. By the way, a great big Texas thank- tened, and floods throughout most of That is the thing about Texas, Mr. you to all our neighbors from across Florida. Speaker, we help each other. That is the United States who also came to These are natural disasters. what makes us Texas strong. help. We look to our neighbors in the Congratulations to the Smiths on the Our hearts go out to those recovering south, and we see Mexico City, that birth of their hurricane daughter, disaster areas in Florida, Puerto Rico, great capital, once again, lay bare with Adrielle. the U.S. Virgin Islands, and all other an earthquake. Further south and west And that is just the way it is. communities in need of help. Let’s do of that, another community. Yet, just f it together. yesterday and the day before, another God bless Texas. earthquake. CHILDREN’S HEALTH INSURANCE f These are natural disasters. PROGRAM As Members of Congress representing (Mr. DEUTCH asked and was given PUERTO RICO IS FACING A 350-plus million Americans, we have an permission to address the House for 1 HUMANITARIAN CRISIS obligation. You heard a couple of our minute and to revise and extend his re- (Mr. ENGEL asked and was given colleagues speak to this. marks.) permission to address the House for 1 I went to bed last night with visions Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, across minute and to revise and extend his re- and pictures of Puerto Rico on the tele- the Capitol, Republican Senators fi- marks.) vision screen. I woke up this morning,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.069 H26SEPT1 H7522 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 turned the television on, and it was all thing months ago? Millions of Ameri- down. It is time for this Congress to about the President calling a couple of cans purposely denied their health in- turn its attention to the reality of the athletes a name that I should not re- surance. crisis that faces Americans—yet we peat on the floor. Where is the outrage? don’t. It is out there. Take a look at the Instead, we have had more than 2 b 1630 polling. Take a look at the disabled weeks of attention on legislation that What is going on here? How could it men and women who were in the Sen- would purposely harm millions upon be that, 2 days after the devastation of ate Chamber yesterday who were phys- millions of Americans by taking away Puerto Rico, our President would de- ically dragged out of there—a fine tes- their health insurance. We have got to cide that the appropriate thing for him tament to America’s democracy. put that behind us. We have got to find to do is to call out African-American Where is the outrage? Where is the ways to improve the Affordable Care athletes who are protesting the death outrage that there is not a bill on the Act. We must do this. People are hurt- of African Americans at the hands of floor this week to take care of Puerto ing. police? Rico, the Virgin Islands—American There are problems with the Afford- All of that was followed in just a few citizens? I guess there is something able Care Act, and we know where the moments by experts who were saying more important to do. fixes are, but we can’t get our col- that we are closer to nuclear war today Where is our President? What is his leagues on the Republican side to work than we have been since the Cuban tweet today? His tweet today is who with us here in the House of Represent- Missile Crisis in the sixties. knows what. I guess he is going to atives. What in the world is going on here? Puerto Rico next week, thankfully. Perhaps we will find Senator MURRAY What is happening? Why are we in this Maybe there will be some humanity ex- and Senator ALEXANDER coming back situation? Why is it that we are not depressed and he will put in motion the together again, since it appears as bating here on the floor of the House great power of this administration to though the ill-begotten Graham-Cas- how to provide relief to Houston, Flor- bring relief and to ask the Congress to sidy legislation is dead. Maybe Sen- ida, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Is- appropriate the money that is going to ators Murray and Alexander can come lands—our own citizens? be necessary. Maybe. back together and work together. Is there a debate going on in the Maybe it will be another tweet about I would ask my Republican col- House of Representatives in any hear- a leader who has the fourth largest leagues here to work with us on the Democratic side to work towards solu- ing? No, there isn’t. army in the world. You have third tions to strengthen and provide the Is there a debate on the floor about graders on the school ground bullying necessary changes and fixes to the Af- the necessity to rebuild, to find the and demeaning, and you expect some- money to put back the lives of people fordable Care Act. We can do it. how to go anywhere except into a While we are doing that, let us use who are seriously at risk today? brawl? What are we doing? the normal, natural empathy that re- There is a road that we could take, sides in each one of us to reach out to Well, here is what we are doing. We but it begins with reducing the rhet- have got a President that is in a third those in Puerto Rico, Florida, Houston, oric. There is a road we can take with and the Virgin Islands and use our in- grade brawl with a world leader. You North Korea. It is called negotiation. may as well be in a classroom or on the nate compassion to provide the re- Don’t say it is not possible. It is far sources for them to rebuild. school grounds with a bunch of third more possible and would have a far bet- Then, let’s take it a step further. In- graders calling out each other about ter outcome than all the bombast, all stead of calling out Mexico, instead of their mother. That is what our Presi- the rhetoric, all the threats. getting into a verbal and perhaps eco- dent did over the weekend. All of us have been in the third nomic conflict with Mexico, let us How did that promote our humanity, grade. We know what happens when work with Mexico. Reach out to Mex- our empathy? Not a bit. two boys start fighting on the school ico City now. Provide them with the How did it promote our division? Oh, ground. assistance that this great country can. it did a very good job of that. We see These boys have awesome weapons. There are so many things we must fans in the NFL stadiums booing the We have 25,000 U.S. military on the spend our time on. athletes. DMZ border. They are ready to fight. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman We see more division in our country. We have an awesome military. It from New York (Mr. ESPAILLAT), who We see natural disasters. And our re- should only be used with wisdom. It spoke a few moments ago. I ask him to sponse? Let’s pass a bill that will cre- should not be put at risk unneces- join me here on the floor. ate a humanitarian crisis for 30 million sarily. There are tens of thousands of Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, I, too, Americans who will lose their American servicemembers, spouses, want to join the voices that echo the healthcare over the next decade. That and children nearby, and millions of deep, troubling concern that we shared is what the Senate did over these last South Koreans and North Koreans. this weekend when we saw our Presi- few days, a replication of what hap- It is time for our President to speak dent engage in a sterile fight, a child- pened here on the floor of the House of softly. We know we have a big stick. ish, almost, type of fight with the NFL Representatives months ago. Speak softly. Tone it down. Move to- players. I think Americans thought those ward the negotiations. It would be far We all know that football, baseball, days were over when we would see the more fruitful. We can do this. and many of our sports have been a Senate and the House purposely harm I go back home, as I did this week- level playing field where many people people, purposely set out with legisla- end, and I do my community events. of different races, ethnicities, and eco- tion to physically harm people by de- People come up to me and say: I am nomic backgrounds come together and nying them the health insurance that scared; I am frightened. What is our cheer for a particular team from their they have been provided over the last President doing? Why is he acting this hometown or their region. few years. way? Why is Kim Jong-un acting this Instead of concentrating on bringing How can it be? How can it be that we way? healthcare to millions of Americans or would allow this to happen? But it is We don’t need another crisis. We retreating on failed attempts to repeal happening. have got to deal with this. We have got and replace ObamaCare, the President Thankfully, four Senators stood up to do it with wisdom, plenty of chose to engage in another activity: to the President, stood up to the Re- strength, and determination. God help tweeting that insulted Americans publican leadership in the Senate and us if we get in a war on the Korean Pe- across the country. said: No. No. I am not going to set out ninsula again. Instead of engaging in a real, sub- on a vote that is going to harm people. Consider for a moment that the 1953 stantive discussion about the Dream I thank them. They had courage. Korean war never ended. It was an ar- Act and DACA recipients, looking at Where were the others? Where were mistice. It is time for a peace treaty. It the provisions of the bipartisan legisla- my Republican colleagues here on this is time to recognize that there are two tion that has been put forward and co- floor who voted to do exactly the same countries. It is time to settle this sponsored by close to 200 Members of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.071 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7523 this House, led by Congresswoman to a million young people who go to the great power and empathy of the ILEANA ROS-LEHTINEN, a Republican school, who work, who are part of our American people on meeting the needs from Florida, and LUCILLE ROYBAL- future economic recovery, who are of our American citizens in Houston, ALLARD, a Democrat from California, members of the Armed Forces; and the Florida, the Virgin Islands, Puerto instead of going through the provisions humanitarian crisis, a new-day Katrina Rico, and then to reach out beyond to of that bill that could bring relief for that is about to ensue in Puerto Rico— others who have been hurt, wherever 800,000 young people who otherwise for those three issues of great impor- they may be—Mexico City, other is- would be potentially deported—they tance to America, our President looked lands in the Caribbean. are larger than any of the congres- the other way. Finally, a plea to our President. Mr. sional districts that any one of us may He chose to engage in tweets; he Speaker, a plea to our President: Tone represent in this House. Instead of chose to insult our local athletes in an it down. This is not a schoolyard for looking at the provisions of that, roll- un-Presidential manner; he chose to bombast and for belligerent talk. This ing up our sleeves and coming here this turn his back on the American people. is extraordinarily serious. It has been week to discuss how we bring relief to Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I said by people who have followed these 800,000 young people who are working, thank Mr. ESPAILLAT very much for issues over the decades that we are going to school, and are members of bringing to our attention the possibili- closer to nuclear war now than we have our Armed Forces, he chose to engage ties. been since the Cuban Missile Crisis. in distraction. The U.S. military is awesome. I am Mr. President, Mr. Speaker, please Instead of looking at a real humani- very thankful that ADAM SMITH, the tone it down. Speak softly; tweet soft- tarian crisis about to ensue in Puerto ranking member of the House Armed ly; don’t worry about our big stick that Rico, the Virgin Islands, and some of Services Committee, together with you we have. Go to the negotiation table; and other colleagues, have called upon our neighboring countries of Barbuda, be humble; be firm; no nukes on the the President to deploy to Puerto Rico Dominica, the Dominican Republic, Caribbean peninsula. We can do that. a military task force. The military is and the Caribbean, as well as the chal- We can do it. the most organized of all of our Federal This is my prayer. lenges of Florida and Houston, instead organizations. They have the ability, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- of taking a look at a potential humani- they have the resources, and they cer- bers are reminded to refrain from en- tarian crisis that may ensue in Puerto tainly have the capability of address- gaging in personalities toward the Rico and bringing about relief for those ing at least the immediate needs of President. 3.5 million Americans, he chose to look Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands, the other way. f and even other islands that have been We remember how a President hov- HURRICANES’ DESTRUCTION AND devastated in the Caribbean. ered in his airplane over New Orleans Ultimately, the task falls to those of COST and Louisiana as people drowned and us who are elected to represent the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under died without getting the help they American people in the office of the the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- needed. This could be our modern-day Presidency, the House of Representa- uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Texas Katrina, and yet our President chose to tives, or in the Senate. And the ques- (Mr. WEBER) is recognized for 60 min- look the other way. tions we must ask ourselves: Are we utes as the designee of the majority b 1645 meeting our responsibilities; are we de- leader. ploying the resources of this Nation to Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, in He could have engaged in bringing all my years, I have seen a lot of about results. Today, I join Congress- assist in these devastated communities; are we providing the funding storms, a lot of hurricanes, a lot of woman NYDIA VELA´ ZQUEZ and Con- necessary to carry out these tasks; or floods, a lot of tropical depressions, a gressman ADAM SMITH in signing on to lot of rains in Texas. We have a whole a letter asking the Department of De- are we engaged in legislation that would create a healthcare disaster on variety of weather in Texas and a lot of fense to step it up in Puerto Rico. just about every calamity weather-wise We ask for a senior general to be ap- top of the natural disasters? Well, thankfully, it appears as you can think of. I have seen nothing pointed to work with FEMA to manage though four Senators have stopped a come close to Hurricane Harvey. In 24 the crisis in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Republican effort in the Senate that is hours, we went from Tropical Storm Virgin Islands the same way it was a repetition of an effort made here in Harvey to Category 4 Hurricane Har- done for Katrina. We ask for Depart- the House of Representatives months vey. ment of Defense engineers and aviation ago, to stop the creation of a As with most hurricanes, there was assets to be deployed to Puerto Rico, healthcare crisis in America. no rhyme or reason for the destruction as many of the municipalities up in the There is more out there that will be and the ensuing devastation. Harvey’s mountains are still cut off from the brought forward. Tomorrow, my col- bands of rains sat on southeast Texas general population and have not been leagues on the Republican side will with a vengeance and for days on end, heard of for nearly a week. meet to discuss tax reform. By all ap- and the situation turned quickly from We ask for technicians and experts to pearances, it appears that tax reform is bad to worse. bring restoration of power and to work likely to turn out—at least their Mr. Speaker, we got 51 to 53 inches of with telecommunications on the island version of it, is likely to turn out to be rain in 3 to 4 days. That part of Texas’ because people are still disconnected serious tax cuts for the superwealthy annual rainfall is about 53 inches a from government, from hospitals, from and for corporations with a hope and a year. We got a whole year’s worth of the police department. There is no cell prayer some day that it might create rainfall in under a week’s time. Our service; there is no energy on the is- jobs. great first responders, our volunteers, land; and we ask for that as well. There is precious little economic his- risked their lives time and time again We ask, in this letter, for the USNS tory to indicate that that would hap- to save others. Comfort, an offshore medical treat- pen, but there is a lot of economic his- When the Nation saw that we needed ment facility, to be deployed to the is- tory and studies that indicate you con- help, the boats and the people just kept land of Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico only tinue to cut taxes for the superwealthy coming. We got the Cajun Navy from has two hospitals that have been able and we will have even a more serious Louisiana; 100 guys with their own to restore power, yet the President inequality of wealth in the United boats came to help us. They did things looked this weekend the other way. States. That is a discussion for tomor- we didn’t think were possible, so I For three major pieces and issues row and beyond. coined a new phrase, ‘‘Cajuneering.’’ that confront the American people: Today, now, the discussion must They came in and really helped us. We healthcare, as it pertains to close to focus on our American citizens who are saw neighbors and strangers alike step maybe 30 million people that may lose not in harm’s way, they are being up to help each other. That is the their services if this failed attempt to harmed. Texas way. repeal and replace ObamaCare goes My plea to my colleagues here is to When the Nation saw that we needed through; DACA, impacting over close put aside these other issues, to focus help, people came pouring in. More

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.073 H26SEPT1 H7524 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 than that, it is not just the Texas way, b 1700 request of my Governor, Governor Ab- it is the American way. No matter our There are five business recovery cen- bott, who enabled us to mobilize in ad- creed, our color, our religion or back- ters in Texas. There are 41 disaster re- vance and preposition assets to have, I ground, we are all united and we work covery centers. Over 30-something think, one of the best responses I have together. Harvey may have brought the Texas counties were named in the dis- seen in one of the most tragic storms downpour, but Texans and Americans aster declaration. that Texas has ever weathered. brought the outpour. Folks, these are just numbers. They By way of history, personally, my Texas 14 is arguably ground zero for are mind-boggling. You can see the pic- grandfather survived the 1900 Gal- flooding and devastation. My district, tures here beside me. Those numbers veston hurricane. They rescued him from Brazoria County to Jefferson don’t really tell the whole story. Let from a treetop. He was 8 years old. County, the enormity and the severity me tell you: behind those numbers are Sadly, 10,000 people were killed in that of Harvey, sadly, is on full display. people; behind those numbers are fami- tragic event. Entire neighborhoods were under- lies; behind those numbers are homes, In this case, we saved almost 20,000 lives, thanks to the good work of the water. How do you recover from that? livelihoods, and businesses. The lives of people in this picture that I had the Your family and your house is under- our great Texans are behind those great privilege to see right after the water, your cars are underwater, your numbers. Our people are hurting, but storm hit. It was one of the most com- furniture, and, sadly, even some of they will not let a hurricane keep them passionate humanitarian responses I your most prized and precious heir- down. Wrapped up in all of the devastation think I have ever witnessed. looms, family photos and pictures and This particular photo, I think, really albums, how do you overcome that? is a bunch of heroes and first responders. I have already talked about the captured what Houston looked like at Well, I will tell you, by working to- Cajun Navy. I can talk about the the time—the first floor under water. gether. Everyone back home in our States that sent firefighters and first It almost looks like the Iwo Jima of great State knows someone who needs responders from all over this great Harvey. You have DPS—Department of help, and everyone back home is doing country of ours. So behind the devasta- Public Safety—the American flag, a their part to help that person in need. tion is a bunch of American heroes. Be- marine, Coast Guard, and National In all the devastation and destruc- hind that devastation is a bunch of Guard. These people came together. tion, the hope and determination love, people doing things for others But do you know who else came to- shared among Texans was absolutely that just makes your heart feel good. gether? remarkable. Harvey may have deluged Behind that devastation is a bunch of You talked about the Cajun Navy, our State with rain and with water, but hope that we really are one Nation who came together from Louisiana to he certainly did not dampen our spirit. under God, with liberty and justice and help Texans. A lot of Texans saved Tex- One month ago today, Harvey made help and mercy for all. Behind that ans in this storm. But to see that proc- landfall between Port Aransas and Port devastation is a bunch of Americans. ess was really a shining light in a very O’Connor, the eye of the hurricane. A Hurricane Harvey reminded us of our dark time. few days later, Harvey swung back into deepest, truest American values. There are so many untold stories of the Gulf and made landfall just west of United we can accomplish just about heroic bravery that took place. I call it Cameron, Louisiana. We literally had a anything. Operation Dunkirk. Many of us know 3-day weather event. Harvey came on Mr. Speaker, I am going to open up or read about that battle, or many of shore there by Rockport-Corpus Chris- the floor for some of my colleagues. As us have seen the movie, of all of the ti. We got the bands of rain coming up I said earlier, our great 14th Congres- private boats that came out to save the in the hurricane as he came ashore. He sional District is, arguably, ground British in that battle. then went up north and stayed around zero for flooding and devastation, but I We saw hundreds of private boats for a day or two dumping rain on all of have a lot more colleagues here on the coming out, working in unison with our rivers and streams upstream from floor with us that all have a story to Federal, State, and local responders, us and our watersheds. Then he came tell. saving lives. Again, there were 20,000 back down to southeast Texas, down on Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman lives saved in the process. Katy High School—Katy is in my dis- the coast, and he worked right over, as from Texas (Mr. MCCAUL), the distin- trict—became the forward operating I said, in Louisiana. Then after Harvey guished chairman of the House Com- base for the Texas Guard, the Active came Hurricane Irma; after Irma came mittee on Homeland Security. Chair- Duty servicemembers, and all of the Jose; and after Jose came Maria. It has man MCCAUL has worked closely with first responders. This is where they been a historic time. FEMA and many of our first responders. His district saw quite a bit of launched their efforts to the Beaumont As of Sunday, September 24—let this area after they took care of all of the sink in—817,758 people are registered water as well, and I appreciate his direct involvement and his willingness to crises and the flooding in the Houston for disaster assistance. FEMA has dis- area. I saw these guys going out in tributed $502.6 million in housing as- be there. Mr. MCCAUL. Mr. Speaker, I thank boats and helicopters and saving lives. sistance and $160.2 million in other as- Congressman WEBER for holding this This is the best side of mankind in one sistance. In the one month since Har- Special Order and his leadership on of the darkest chapters that our State vey, the first of a series of hurricanes, this issue. My condolences to the peo- has really seen. I had an opportunity to FEMA has completed 239,612 inspec- ple in his district. I know Beaumont, bring Speaker RYAN and Chairman tions. Almost 22,000 people are living in particularly, was hit the hardest. We SHUSTER of the Transportation and In- hotels because they have no home to were hit hard all around, but I know frastructure Committee down to look return to. That number doesn’t even Beaumont was hit very hard. That is at this. A remarkable story in, again, a include those who are staying with why we need to pass the supplemental really awful time, but we saw the resil- family and friends. in October, to help the great people in iency of Texans helping other Texans. The Small Business Administration the great State of Texas. But I also want to credit the entire has approved $509.4 million. Home- I am chairman of the Homeland Se- Nation for responding in a very com- owners have received, to date, $467.3 curity Committee. One of my respon- passionate way. I went to the shelters million in loans. Businesses have re- sibilities is overseeing the response ef- and the churches and I saw all of the ceived $42 million in loans. Earlier this forts of FEMA—Federal, State, and food coming in, and people calling me month, we passed out of this Chamber, local—to see is this working or not. I from other States asking: What can I with overwhelming bipartisan support, have seen what happened in Katrina do to help? a $15 billion relief bill. Two or three and Rita and other disasters. I can tell The firefighters I saw coming from more of those bills, at a minimum, are you that this was the most impressive Nebraska, Pennsylvania, and Ohio were expected. response effort Federal, State, and all converging on the State. Indeed, the Folks, the monetary damages are local. eyes of the Nation were on the State of adding up to over $150 billion, with a I commend the President for signing Texas during this devastating hurri- ‘‘B.’’ an advanced disaster declaration at the cane that continued to rain for days.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.075 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7525 Lastly, I do want to talk about what bringing us today. I also want to ex- ment of Public Safety Trooper was out we can do moving forward. This is a tend my condolences for the loss of life on those roads that had no streetlights, 1940 map flood control plan that was and the devastation that was visited on that had no working traffic signals, built by the Civilian Conservation the communities that he represents. I trying to ensure the safety of his fellow Corps under President Roosevelt, back know that he is doing his best to unite Texans. Two extraordinary heroes who in the forties. And you see here the those communities in every way pos- exemplify the way that Texas met this Addicks Reservoir and Barker Res- sible to ensure that they get back on challenge. ervoir that were built in the 1940s. This their feet, they rebuild, and are bigger I certainly spent some time in Hous- is the Buffalo Bayou, and this is down- and better than ever. Party difference ton, where we heard tale of all of the town Houston. doesn’t mean anything at this moment. first responders, certainly folks who But they had another plan at the It is all of us as Texans. I join Chair- were working under the great fire chief time, and it was on Cypress Creek. man MCCAUL in agreeing that we can- there, Chief Pena. But also first re- That is in my district. In Katy is where not have a better moment as a State. I sponders who came from across the these guys were. This is where it all am grateful to him for bringing us all State. El Paso sent folks from the El started. This is the third flood in 2 together today. Paso Police Department and the El years in this area, all starting at Cy- As he said, I have really had an op- Paso Fire Department. They made over press Creek. This is all developed now. portunity to spend some time traveling 100 rescues not just in the Houston It is not rice fields anymore. It was a Texas, and especially southeast Texas, area, but also in the greater Beaumont watershed event into these reservoirs starting around the time that Harvey area, including rescuing a 1-month-old that then had a controlled release at 1 hit. I will tell you, Mr. Speaker, that in child from chest-high waters. Again, in the morning into these neighbor- Austin, Texas, on the 25th of August, I we saw that both from first responders hoods below, flooding the Buffalo was there as the first evacuees were and everyday citizens who risked their Bayou, and then flooding Houston. leaving southeast Texas, coming from own lives to save the lives of fellow Mr. Speaker, as we look at the sup- Victoria and Corpus Christi and other Texans. plemental and other projects, this is places that were under mandatory We were in a parking lot in Victoria, the prevention that I think we can be evacuation orders. They were arriving where we were picking up supplies to doing in Congress that makes a lot of at Red Cross shelters that were staffed take to Rockport. We knew, however, sense to provide infrastructure at key both by the professionals and the vol- that Rockport was under a mandatory points to stop this flooding from ever unteers. curfew, enforced by DPS. So I ap- happening again. I was told by the head of Red Cross in proached two DPS cruisers that were I know, as Texans, we are all going to Austin that they had never seen a in the parking lot at Walmart, where come together as a delegation. I know greater turnout of volunteers on the we were going in to buy ice and water this entire Congress would come to- first day of a disaster. In fact, I met a and diapers and other supplies that gether to not only save lives, as we did, young man named Luis Zamora, who at they might need in Rockport. I wanted and help with FEMA assistance to get the time was a rising junior at to ask these two DPS officers if they people back up on their feet, but then Tarleton State University and a mem- could help us to get into Rockport do smart projects like this one to stop ber of the National Guard, and who was under the curfew. As they were rolling this kind of flooding from ever hap- so disappointed that his colleagues in down their window and I began to in- pening again. That is smart prevention the Guard were called up, but he was troduce myself, they said: I know ex- that, at the end of the day, is going to not. He drove himself down to the Red actly who you are. You are BETO save money and save human lives in Cross headquarters so that he could O’ROURKE. We are from El Paso. We the process. sign up, volunteer, and help staff one of were one of the first volunteers from In closing, I just want to say that I these shelters, welcome those who were the Department of Public Safety in El have never been prouder to call myself fleeing this storm, and help try to Paso to come out to Victoria, and we a Texan. I have seen a lot. It is my sev- make their lives a little bit better. have been working this community, enth term. Judge POE and I came in to- It reminded me of visiting some of communities like Cuero, Port Lavaca, gether, and we have seen a lot in the the shelters in San Antonio, where I Rockport, and other places. seven terms we have been in Congress. had a chance to see their great Mayor b 1715 I have never seen our State rally like Ron Nirenberg in action personally this at a time of need, and the Nation welcoming people coming from other They wanted to be where the action rallying behind the State of Texas. I parts of the State. To every one of was. They wanted to be out there sav- want to thank all of those who made it them, his message was: We are so glad ing lives. And it made me so extraor- possible in our great State, and also in you are here. Stay as long as you need dinarily proud of El Paso and Texas our great country, the United States of to. We are going to make things better once again. It is like the 90 soldiers America. for you. You focus on you. We will do from Fort Bliss from one of the avia- Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I our best to take care of you. tion brigades who were in southeast thank Chairman MCCAUL for his re- That really was the message we Texas as well trying to facilitate the marks. I certainly appreciate him and heard everywhere that we went. rescue of their fellow Texans, being his involvement. When we found ourselves in Victoria where the need was at its moment of My next friend, BETO O’ROURKE, from helping to transport some medical sup- greatest importance, again, making us across the aisle, has seen plenty of plies for two of those hospitals, we met so proud. Texas action here. Earlier this year, he an extraordinary young woman named Congressman WEBER, I will conclude had a bipartisan trip with WILL HURD. Lisa Price, who had been up for the by telling you that, as we came in to On Facebook, we got to watch that and last 72 hours, as many of the people Rockport and were able to successfully participate in that. I thank him for working in those hospitals were, trying get in under curfew to make our deliv- doing that. That was a great event. to coordinate care for those in need, ery, we were blown away and inspired And even though his district may not coordinate the evacuation of those who by the volunteer fire department, 20 have seen any water as a result of Har- were no longer able to be cared for in people strong, 8 of whom had lost their vey—in fact, we would have loved to hospitals that only had backup gener- homes and literally everything in their send him some to El Paso, quite frank- ator power and did not have reliable homes but had not lost a minute’s serv- ly—he is a Texan, he gets it, and he has water and could not keep those medi- ice to their fellow community out of been there working with us every step cines and vaccines chilled. that Rockport fire station. of the way. There were volunteer ambulance They were living in the fire station Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman corps from all over the State of Texas because they had nowhere else to live. from Texas (Mr. O’ROURKE), my good who had driven down to Victoria to They were responding to triple or quad- friend. help transport these patients out. Lisa ruple the service calls. The rains had Mr. O’ROURKE. Mr. Speaker, I want and others were helping to coordinate now ended. The fires had begun. There to thank Congressman WEBER for that. Her husband, Jason, a Depart- was some question about the viability

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.076 H26SEPT1 H7526 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 of those structures, and they wanted to A volunteer fire department in Buna, serve the needs of our constituents. It be there to save lives. Texas, became a big staging area, like has not gone unnoticed and is part of That fire chief, Steve Sims, and the many, many schools and volunteer fire the incredible good that has come out men and women who serve under him departments all across this area. of a tragic hurricane. We are extremely are the absolute best of us as Texans. I In Cleveland, a constable organized a proud and very grateful to them and am so glad that you and every one of flotilla of boats to deliver shelter and their families and everyone who has our colleagues from Texas, Republican supplies. pitched in. or Democrat, House Member or Sen- Dozens and dozens of churches imme- I would also like to recognize our ator, are focused on making Chief diately marshaled their congregations friends from Louisiana, and specifi- Sims, the members of that fire depart- and good Christian people for food, sup- cally my colleague, Congressman GAR- ment, and every Texan affected by Har- plies, and shelters to be delivered. RET GRAVES, and his staff, Paul Sawyer vey whole again. We have got to use In Deer Park, church members and David Cavell. their inspiration and their example to sprang into action immediately and Everywhere we went, we saw folks do the important work that is here be- began cooking and sharing meals with from Louisiana coming over and help- fore us. evacuees from Houston. ing in the recovery, and we would tell So I thank you once again for bring- In Silsbee, a church opened a commu- them: Thank you so much. And we ing us together, allowing me to join nity shelter after the county’s only said: This is payback because of you and work with you and our col- other shelter was cut off by flood- Katrina. leagues to make sure that Texans fully waters. Countless churches and individuals recover from Hurricane Harvey bigger In Rose City, a really good friend and and neighbors from our neighboring and better than ever. Thank you. neighbor rescued nearly everyone in State of Louisiana came out to help. Mr. WEBER of Texas. Thank you, his entire neighborhood on his airboat, Thank God for the Cajun Airlift, the Congressman O’ROURKE. And, by the even as his own home was flooded. His Cajun Navy, the Cajun Special Forces, way, happy birthday. name was Dennis Landry. and the Cajun Gravy. Mr. O’ROURKE. Thank you. I cannot Since the flood, neighbors have orga- And lastly, I would like to thank our think of a better way to spend it than nized mucking crews, where they help first responders. The death toll would to be here with you. neighbors remove furniture, appli- have been much higher if it had not Mr. WEBER of Texas. At this time, I ances, Sheetrock, carpets from one an- been for these brave men and women. recognize my good friend, the gen- other’s flooded homes. And for our game wardens, our police tleman from Texas (Mr. BABIN). This has happened all across the departments, our DPS officers, sheriff’s Mr. BABIN. Thank you very much for Texas Gulf Coast, and the stories go on deputies, all the way to our U.S. Coast yielding. I would like to thank my col- and on: neighbors helping neighbors, Guard and Texas and other States’ Na- league, RANDY WEBER, my neighbor. I communities helping communities, tional Guardsmen, we thank you for represent the 36th District in Texas strangers helping strangers. Churches, everything that you did, and we re- and he represents the 14th, and he also first responders, private citizens, busi- member those who gave their lives in represents my hometown of Beaumont, nesses, people from out of State all the line of service. Texas, for this Special Order. I really As we push forward, we have a long around our district are helping one an- appreciate that. road ahead. People are still very much other. But that is what we do in east It was about a month ago that Hurri- in need of assistance and resources as Texas. When times get tough, we pull cane Harvey began wreaking havoc on they work to put their lives back to- together and we get to work. southeast Texas, dumping record gether. In fact, the fact that over 800 No one waits around to be told what amounts of rainfall across our region, folks showed up for our Disaster Recov- to do. We are people of action, and we upending the lives of thousands of fam- ery Town Hall Meetings over the past act when we see a need. And, quite ilies, businesses, and communities. several days demonstrates that there frankly, this is what makes east Texas Across our congressional district, the are still many in need. 36th District of Texas, we saw any- so special. Our communities are strong. Last Thursday night in Lumberton, where between 20 and 50 inches of rain, And through our faith in God, we take Texas, we had over 200 people come setting a new record for the United care of one another in times of need re- out. In Orange, Texas, we saw that 77 States. In fact, unofficially, ranchers gardless of our own means. It is our percent of all homes in that county in Liberty County, which I also rep- shared value for our fellow man that were impacted. We had over 500 people resent, measured over 60 inches of rain. makes the difference. come out to meet with FEMA, State Our entire district, from Houston to In that same east Texas spirit, our officials, and my staff on a Friday the Louisiana border, turned into, es- office has been doing everything pos- night, and that is big, because that is sentially, one gigantic lake, as thou- sible that we can do to help. From the football night in Texas. sands of homes that had never flooded very start, we have been working over- It is our goal to help folks cut before succumbed to Harvey’s flood- time to help people get back on their through the bureaucracy and the red waters. The impact was devastating feet. We are blessed with a professional tape to get the answers and help that and widespread. and dedicated staff that is second to they need. We have been spreading No one was spared. People from all none. And despite some of our own staff out across our nine counties, set- walks of life and socioeconomic situa- staff being flooded themselves, we have ting up mobile offices to provide con- tions, with the majority never having worked tirelessly to help our east stituents with one-on-one assistance in been displaced before, were baffled and Texas neighbors and friends get the in- applying for help and ensuring they desperate in their situations. formation and resources they need to have access to a computer or to com- Each of the nine counties that I have recover and build. plete the application. And this is not the privilege of representing have been We are extremely grateful for their unusual. My colleagues and all of the declared Federal disaster areas. The service, and I would like to personally other counties, up to 38 counties, I be- devastation is simply overwhelming, recognize some of our staff: Lanie lieve, were involved in this thing and and the vast lake now is a vast debris Brown, Lauren Jones, Rachel Iglesias, have been doing the exact same thing. field. But in the midst of this devasta- Sarah Blacksher, Beverly Ferguson, This will be a long road to our recov- tion, there were, and still continue to Will Carter, Jeannie Kranz, Joyce Mor- ery, but together, we will recover, and be, incredible stories of goodness. Let gan, Kelly Waterman, Beth Barber, we will rebuild and come back stronger me share just a few examples. Sarah Reese, Steve Janushkowsky, than ever. In Orange, Texas, a young couple Lauren Ziegler. Congressman WEBER, I want to thank canceled their wedding to help their These individuals have spent the past you, and God bless. friends and neighbors clean up and month doing everything they can to Mr. WEBER of Texas. I thank you, begin the process of rebuilding. These help the people of District 36. These are Dr. BABIN. The enormity of this storm newlyweds have now welcomed nearly often the unsung heroes who go the and the debt of gratitude that we owe a dozen family members into their non- extra mile each and every day, and our first responders cannot be over- flooded home. lately, on weekends and evenings, to stated.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.079 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7527 My good friend, Judge TED POE, saw merged and he drowned. He was out tween on what we are going to do to plenty of it up in his district, but he doing what he wanted to do: to protect solve the long-term flooding problem. took it in stride, as he always does and serve. Because, you see, September comes with any challenge because he is a He is a symbol of all the first re- around every September. Mr. MCCAUL Texan and he is a fighter. And, Judge, sponders, of all the badges that they talked about the flood of 1900. That that is just the way it is. wear from all over the country who happened in September, almost to the I yield to the gentleman from Texas came down there to do their duty, to same day. Here this flood happened at (Mr. POE). help people in need. We regret his loss. the end of August, near the beginning Mr. POE of Texas. I thank the gen- We are with his family and our prayers of September. tleman for yielding. I appreciate it, are with his family, his wife and his I hope we can do that. I think that Congressman WEBER, for allowing us to two kids, for their future. we can, and I do want to reiterate what talk a little bit about Hurricane Har- At his funeral, of course, in Houston has been said about people who just vey and what folks did down in the that I had the opportunity to attend, helped each other. They didn’t know Texas area. there were a lot of police officers from each other. It wasn’t just neighbors While it was still raining hard, I get all over the country showing their re- helping neighbors. It was people who a phone call, and I looked at the area spects to another first responder. didn’t know each other. Some of them code on my cell phone and I said: I With this hurricane that came who were flooded out themselves were think that is Massachusetts. through the Houston area, I have kind doing everything they could to help And sure enough, it was Representa- of an unusual district, so I got hit sev- other people. tive KENNEDY from Boston, Massachu- eral places. People got flooded. There were a lot of bass boats. They setts, calling me saying he would do Michael McCall showed, earlier, a weren’t all from Louisiana. There were whatever he could to get Bostonian’s map of the Houston area, that there a lot from Louisiana, but I think it is first responders down to Texas to help are two reservoirs that are supposed to every young boy’s dream in Texas to out. And that is what happened, as has protect the city from flooding. Water own two things: a pickup truck and a already been mentioned by all of my filled up those reservoirs, and people bass boat. You saw all of those pickup colleagues tonight: both sides of Mem- whom I represent are on the down- trucks and bass boats on the road and bers of Congress working on this issue stream of that reservoir. They got in the water—because a lot of them are pretty high—rescuing people. People to help in Harvey. BETO O’ROURKE is flooded when water came over it. from El Paso. You are from Beaumont. they did not know, Mr. Speaker. They People may not realize that there is b 1730 were just looking to help other individ- a sign in Beaumont. I used to represent But I also represent people upstream, uals. It is remarkable. Beaumont, as you know. As you are and they got flooded because the res- I have been through a lot of hurri- driving in from Louisiana, there is a ervoir overflowed up in the north- canes. I grew up in the Houston area. I sign that says: El Paso, Texas, 876 western direction. People also got remember Hurricane Carla in 1961, be- miles away. flooded in the middle of the night after fore most of you all were even around. That is how far it is from Beaumont they thought the storm was over with We have had a lot of hurricanes since then. Nothing like Harvey. It was the to El Paso, and yet BETO O’ROURKE because Conroe—and, Mr. Speaker, I made his way all the way to the Hous- know you don’t know where that is, granddaddy of all of them. It ham- ton-Galveston area to help out as well. but it is just northwest of Houston. mered the Houston area, but we are The whole State helped with what was They have a lake up in Conroe. They using this as an opportunity to fix taking place. started letting water out of Lake Con- things because this Hurricane is not The magnitude of the devastation— roe because it was too full. Water came going to defeat the spirit of Texans. It not just the weather, but the devasta- rushing down the San Jacinto River is not. We will resolve to overcome tion—if you take the State of New Jer- into Humble, Texas, and Kingwood, Cy- whatever the difficulties are now and sey and turn it on its side and set it press Creek. All that overflowed, and to fix things in the future so that we can have a response when the rains of down on the Gulf Coast, that is how people got flooded in all of that area as September come. much devastation there was in the well—thousands of people. Their homes The rains have stopped, the flood are devastated. In fact, two of those State of Texas. That was the area that waters have gone down, the rainbow is people who have lost their home, they was hit where disaster occurred. They out, the kids are playing in the parks are still staying with us, friends of got rain as far as Dallas and San Anto- again, but we are still at work solving ours. We do take care of each other. nio, and, of course, we know that it the problem of what took place and One thing that I want to mention is went all the way up to Kentucky a moving on because, as I said, Harvey we need to get a regional plan to pre- thousand miles away. Still, they were will not defeat the Texas spirit. And getting rain days later. vent these disasters in the future. It that is just the way it is. I want to talk about one of the peo- would be a whole lot cheaper, in fact, Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ple involved in the rescue. Dr. BABIN to prevent these floods than try to con- thank Judge POE. He is exactly correct. talked about a lot of folks who helped tinue to pay for the damage of these Harvey cannot dampen our spirit or out. Here is another guy who helped floods. No question about it, we have to those of our neighbors and all of our out. You have probably never heard of do recovery now for those people who first responders, those who came and him: Steven Perez, Houston police offi- have lost everything they have, do helped. cer, 34-year veteran of the Houston Po- what we can here in Congress, and we Texas saw the first of four hurricanes lice Department, married, two kids. are going to do that in a bipartisan this month. Think about that. Puerto The rains are coming down. It is in the way. But we need to have a plan for the Rico has seen the last two hurricanes. middle of the night. It is his time to go future as well. Maria did a number on the island. They on shift at the Houston Police Depart- I have introduced legislation for the are in need of so many things, but one ment. His wife is saying: Don’t go; it is Corps of Engineers to come up with, in thing is certain that they are not in too bad. And he said: I am going to 90 days of our legislation being signed need of: they have a leader here in work. It is my duty. by the President, to evaluate all the Washington, D.C. She has got their And he did. He left home. He couldn’t conditions in the flood plain area that back, and I am proud to yield to my get to the downtown Houston Police was flooded and come up with a long- good friend, Congresswoman JENNIFFER Department, so he is headed in a dif- term plan, whether it is building one GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N. ferent direction, my understanding is, more reservoir, two more reservoirs, Miss GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N of Puerto up to Kingwood, where I represent— making the ones that we have bigger, Rico. Thank you, Mr. WEBER, for allow- that is about 25 miles away from down- desilting the channel to Buffalo Bayou, ing me to speak in these Special Or- town Houston—where he was going to San Jacinto River, whatever it is. We ders, and actually speaking about hur- do what he could to help folks out need to come as a united area from Mr. ricanes. there. He took a bad turn, got under an WEBER’s district all the way up to Mr. Mr. Speaker and Members, last week, underpass, and his patrol car was sub- MCCAUL’s district and everybody in be- Hurricane Maria hit Puerto Rico, and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.080 H26SEPT1 H7528 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 it is by far the worst hurricane to do so the land where we live. This is a job for stories are gone. They looked great in the last century. It came at a time the Federal Government, particularly from the front, but then you would when Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin this Congress, to authorize and appro- look in the back, and there would be no Islands and most of the Caribbean were priate the money needed to rebuild the back. beginning to recover from the impact island. This is a dire time for the is- In Port Aransas, boats having risen of Hurricane Irma just 10 days earlier. land, and, therefore, our Nation. The and moved inland, an oil drilling plat- Keep in mind, also, that even before U.S. has an abiding national interest in form loose in the ship channel, com- the winds and waves of Irma and Maria the recovery and prosperity of Puerto pletely changing the skyline of the began to lash at the shores, Puerto Rico and its 3.4 million U.S. citizens city. Rico was already in a dire economic who are facing very tough economic But rather than sitting around and shape. We are still engaged in life- times, even before this latest blow. moping and crying, Texans came to- saving operations, searching for and I have heard from many of you, many gether, helped each other clear the de- helping people who are in the greatest of my colleagues, even the Vice Presi- bris, and are slowly but surely getting danger. dent today, and I am deeply grateful on with their lives. The recovery period is going to be Maria snapped the island’s commu- for all the prayers and support. nication towers, and gathering infor- I also want to thank the Trump ad- tough, though. There is just so much debris. They are picking it up and mation from many communities has ministration for their unwavering col- stacking it at transfer stations, but it been nearly impossible at this time, es- laboration with the Puerto Rico Na- will be months before the process is pecially in the rural center of the is- tional Guard. More than 10,000 people finished. It is tough driving down the land, where the winds were ferocious were deployed helping the island to re- streets of the places you love seeing de- and landslides have occurred. store the power grid. It will take more This hurricane has been a disaster of bris stacked, smelling the rotting than 6 months to get power on the is- mold. But you know it is going to come unprecedented proportions. The images land again. back. that you have been seeing on TV are I hope this House can keep us in your We are struggling right now to find dramatic but don’t even begin to tell prayers, but also to approve the pack- homes for people, places for them to the magnitude of this catastrophe and age that is going to be needed in Octo- stay. People have been staying with the human suffering that you can only ber, and I know we will respond. That friends and relatives. FEMA has been truly experience by being on the was the claim that President Trump helping out with hotels. I have to say, ground. In every way, Maria is on the made today, and the Vice President. I I am really impressed with the way same level of Hurricanes Katrina, was just in a meeting with them. I local, State, and Federal folks are Sandy, Harvey, but with one major dif- want to thank the Speaker of the working hard to give people a hand up. ference: Puerto Rico is an island, which House for his leadership allowing the We have had leaders from President makes it almost impossible to get aid waiver to the cost sharing of FEMA on Trump down to Members of Congress and disaster relief resources in, as they the island. and all throughout the country come can only come by sea or air. The people Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I to see what is going on, and all have are basically stuck there with no place thank Congresswoman GONZA´ LEZ- pledged their help. And it is going to be to go. COLO´ N for her remarks. a Herculean effort to come back, but Currently, Puerto Rico’s electric grid My good friend from the Southwest, come back we will. is completely down. Roads and bridges BLAKE FARENTHOLD, is going to come I suspect in a year, certainly in 2 have been washed away, leaving many and address us. Blake represents the years, towns like Rockport and Port communities without communication. area where Harvey actually made land- Aransas, where many folks vacation, A crucial dam has burst, forcing the fall and brought Category 4 winds and are going to have their doors open evacuation of thousands of people. Hos- storm surges. As Congressman again and inviting people to come pitals are crippled and operating on FARENTHOLD knows, I understand the visit. In fact, the goal is to be ready by power generators, but the logistics of devastation that that brings. My heart spring break of this year, and I suspect transporting the diesel needed to run goes out to them, and, Blake, please it is going to be worth visiting. them is extremely difficult. Thousands come share with us. You need to help the businesses out, of homes, buildings, and businesses Mr. FARENTHOLD. Mr. Speaker, I need to help the people out by not for- have been destroyed. Water and food am here to talk a couple minutes about getting us, by keeping us in your pray- are in short supply. People are waiting the best and the worst that I saw dur- ers, and by supporting us here in Con- in line for up to 6 hours just to pur- ing Hurricane Harvey in the 27th Dis- gress as we give the people the help chase $20 worth of gasoline. Commer- trict of Texas that I represent. they need to rebuild their lives. I want cial flights to and from the island are The worst was dished out by nature to thank my colleagues from Texas, almost nonexistent, with thousands of and high winds. The best was the spirit my colleagues from the rest of the people on airline wait-lists just to of the Texans who rose to the chal- country, for the support. It is a shame leave. Most banks cannot operate, and lenge. It was neighbor helping neigh- that this has been such a tough season, people don’t have easy access to cash, bor, friend helping friend, and stranger but we are seeing not just the resil- which they need desperately because helping stranger. ience of Texas but of all the American credit cards are not being used on the I live in Corpus Christi. It is a rel- people with what is going on in Flor- island because we don’t have power. atively large community of almost ida. And we are going to get reports, I Maria flattened 80 percent of the is- 400,000 in the metropolitan area. We think, of people helping people in Puer- land’s agriculture, and Puerto Rico’s were spared the brunt of Harvey. It to Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and tourism industry has been crushed. For missed us by about 20 miles. But just other areas so damaged by the storms most of the island’s residents, the hur- across the bay, communities like Port we faced this year. ricane can best be described as apoca- Aransas, Aransas Pass, Ingleside, b 1745 lyptic. Congress must approve an aid Rockport, Refugio, Tivoli, and many But I am proud to be an American. I package that is proportional with the more took horrible winds. Ninety- am proud we are all helping out, and I level of devastation. We need tangible some-odd percent of the homes in the look forward to continuing the recov- relief that addresses the island’s imme- resort town of Port Aransas are un- ery effort in all of the areas of this diate needs. Without help, there will be inhabitable right now. The brand new country that have been so devastated a massive exodus to the U.S. mainland, school in Refugio they just turned the by natural disasters this year. and the ongoing humanitarian crisis keys over had the roof blown off and Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I will only get worse. was severely water damaged, and it thank Congressman FARENTHOLD for The residents of Puerto Rico are will be weeks before they are fully his comments. The 27th District of American citizens. They are not dif- operational again in that school. Texas is blessed to have him. ferent from every person sitting in this Rockport, with their beautiful oak A little background: On Friday, Au- Chamber. But unlike everyone else, trees, had limbs and branches strewn gust 25, some of the outer bands of Har- Congress has 100 percent control over all over the streets, and houses’ second vey were beginning to brush the Gulf

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.082 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7529 Coast. Texans do what we always do to Mr. FARENTHOLD. Mr. Speaker, I overnight. We took many flyovers to prepare for a storm. We bought the es- did want to add that, though Texans assess the damage. President Trump sentials. We prepped the house. We are helping people and people are help- came in. Senator CORNYN, Senator tightened things up. We watched the ing each other, volunteer organizations CRUZ, Speaker RYAN, and leader KEVIN news. We were as ready for the rain, we like Mr. WEBER is talking about, the MCCARTHY were among the many who thought, as we would ever be. Federal Government, also, is helping visited. But what happened, in my 64 years on with FEMA and SBA loans. Help came from far and wide: New God’s green Earth, is unlike anything I Some people have gotten denial let- York, Massachusetts, Minnesota. I have ever seen before like this. And I ters from FEMA. If you read them could go down the list of State after am no stranger to the area. I have lived carefully, they are not always denial State after State, all Americans, all in a 20-mile radius almost my entire letters. You should follow up with wanting to help. And, of course, Lou- life. I hope I have got a lot more to go FEMA. It may be you are just missing isiana and the Cajun Navy we talked yet. some paperwork. about. We didn’t see the sun for 4 days. Over All Congressmen have folks in their Between the Cajun Navy, our Texans, 50 inches of rain, as reported by the office, caseworkers or red tape cutters, our fellow Americans, there were many weather forecasters on TV news, fell who can help if you are having prob- countless heroes who haven’t been from the sky. Actually, it was about 60 lems getting the help you need from named and many haven’t even been inches in District 4—7, rather, in Jef- FEMA or the SBA. We can’t get them thanked at all. So to all of them, I ferson County. to bend or break the rules, but if you want to say thank you. Thank you Evacuation orders, mandatory and are having trouble communicating or from the bottom of my heart for the voluntary, were posted. City after city you feel like you are not being treated lives you have saved. I witnessed some started posting the notices. Roads were right, please call your Member of Con- of the evacuations. Thank you for your flooded. Some of them had hip-deep gress’ office because we are here to heroism. I just can’t tell you enough, water, some of them more. help in more ways than just sitting up thank you on behalf of us. Now, I am a Texan, kind of like here in Washington making laws. Judge POE said. Two things apply to One of the best parts of the job is We saws doctors send supplies. We me, especially apply to me as a Texan: helping folks out on a one-on-one basis, saw hospitals pay for things that nor- number one, I am stubborn, and, num- and we are doing that throughout the mally they would charge for. We saw ber two, I have one of those pickup district I represent, from Wharton, Bay cattle and horses wading through trucks he talked about; although, I City, Victoria, down to Corpus Christi, water. We saw businesses open up their don’t have a half-ton truck. I have got Rockport, and to all the other commu- doors and help people. We saw a mother a Ford F–350 4-wheel drive truck, and I nities that I represent. and daughter who took hundreds of can go through almost waist-deep So I just want to make sure folks evacuees into a Texas City hotel for a water. knew that your congressional office is home-cooked meal of spaghetti, salad, Starting Saturday, my bride and I a resource. fresh fruit, and dessert. began traveling Texas 14, checking on Mr. WEBER of Texas. I thank the You were heroes, Lakewood Church, people. We went first to Brazoria Coun- gentleman for that. who did open their doors and provided ty and met with their EOC, emergency You know, we were moving through- transportation for the congregants of operations center. We went to the out our district, as I was describing. Beth Yeshurun synagogue. Hitchcock shelter. We met with volun- Folks, the sound of a helicopter will You heroes were the citizens who saw teers in those shelters. We met with never be the same for us. We saw Coast the incredible effort of your local offi- people from the La Marque Police De- Guard helicopters. We saw Army, Ma- cials, and you raised money for them partment, all over, our first respond- rine helicopters. The Marines arrived to begin recovering for their own ers. in Friendswood. homes and their belongings. Our first responders worked endless The sun made a brief appearance on The heroes were the young men, hop- hours and hours. I tell you what, it was Tuesday evening. I found myself on I–45 ing to attend the Naval Academy one heartwarming; and I tell you what, Mr. in Dickinson passing out water on the day, who jumped in that jon boat and Speaker, you have never seen anything overpass there, where the water was went door to door to help. like that. about 4 feet deep in the intersection. From Bay Area Church to the fami- Things kept turning from bad to You were the people who were scared lies from League City and Dickinson worse. I was honored to meet with EOC to death in the face of disaster, and yet that sought shelter, we were there with leaders from Brazoria, Dickinson, Gal- you put on a brave face and you waded them. At Victory Lakes, we saw much veston, and Beaumont. in, unabashed. of the same thing in the school there at On Tuesday, August 29, in You were the people who lost every- Victory Lakes and League City. Friendswood, Texas, the Marines ar- thing, and your first thought was: I At Friendswood High School, I met rived. Thank God for our great Ma- need to get back to help my commu- with evacuees, responders, doctors who rines. nity. had come in from other States to be On Friday, August 31, Beaumont lost You heroes were the first responders there to help. These are just a handful water. My bride and I drove almost 7 who worked around the clock. Beau- of the shelters that popped up. These hours, having to take back road after mont, alone, received 12,022 911 calls. shelters and the volunteers provided a back road to deliver three pallets of Let that sink in. That’s one city, 12,000 dry place with warm food and warm, bottled water. My good friend Dwight 911 calls. friendly smiles, understanding smiles, Sullivan and his wife, Misty, accom- Well, we are going to have more to hundreds of families in need. That is panied us with another pallet of water. meetings. We are going to be meeting no exaggeration. We got to Beaumont. I want to gave with city officials, State officials. We Homes that never came close to Mayor Becky Ames of Beaumont a will be meeting with Houston Mayor flooding were taking on water. Roads shout-out. She never wavered. She was Sylvester Turner, who, by the way, to- turned into rivers. Evacuations and a stalwart. morrow is his birthday. We want to rescues were happening everywhere Will Crenshaw from Beaumont, Drag- thank Mayor Sylvester Turner, County you looked around. on Products, they got in gear and they Judge Ed Emmett, County Judge Matt Mr. Speaker, may I inquire how put a workaround on the water system, Sebesta, County Judge Mark Henry, all much time I have left? laid temporary pipes, got them power, great heroes. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. got pumps and got Beaumont some FASO). The gentleman has 61⁄2 minutes water. God bless our heroes. God bless remaining. That is just the short version of the Texas, our great Nation, and all of Mr. WEBER of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I first week of Harvey. those who went beyond and above. yield to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. The sun finally started to shine Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance FARENTHOLD). again, but the water did not recede of my time.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.084 H26SEPT1 H7530 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 REPORT ON RESOLUTION PRO- He selflessly aided those suffering b 1800 VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF through some of the largest disasters She became the first female to com- H.R. 3823, DISASTER TAX RELIEF of our lifetime, including the horrific mand a battalion leading the 415th AND AIRPORT AND AIRWAY EX- earthquake in Haiti, the Oklahoma Military Intelligence Battalion, com- TENSION ACT OF 2017, AND PRO- City bombing, and the great tragedy on mander of the 199th Regiment Regional VIDING FOR CONSIDERATION OF September 11, 2001. Training Institute, and the first female MOTIONS TO SUSPEND THE Known and loved by all, Dr. to helm a major command when she led RULES Tuberville also served selflessly as the 61st Troop Command. Mr. SESSIONS (during the Special chaplain for the Caddo Parish Sheriff’s Currently, she serves as the assist Order of Mr. WEBER of Texas), from the Office, Caddo Fire District 3, and as na- general for the Louisiana National Committee on Rules, submitted a priv- tional chaplain of the firefighters Guard and is responsible, as the prin- ileged report (Rept. No. 115–333) on the Brother’s Keepers Motorcycle Club. cipal military adviser to the adjunct resolution (H. Res. 538) providing for It is difficult to imagine our commu- general, in assisting in the deployment consideration of the bill (H.R. 3823) to nity without the leadership and the and coordination of programs, policies, amend title 49, United States Code, to larger-than-life presence, always en- and plans for the Louisiana Army and extend authorizations for the airport couraging, of Dr. Tuberville. His legacy Air National Guard. improvement program, to amend the and example are an enduring lesson for The National Guard is unique in de- Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to extend all of us, and we are comforted to know fending Louisiana both at home and the funding and expenditure authority he has been received by the Lord with abroad. Major General Sheridan served of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, that ultimate affirmation: ‘‘Well done, as a citizen soldier through Hurricane to provide disaster tax relief, and for good and faithful servant.’’ Katrina. She was deployed to Baghdad other purposes, and providing for con- Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the United in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom sideration of motions to suspend the States Congress, it is a privilege to in 2008, and led rescue and recovery ef- rules, which was referred to the House honor Dr. James Durell Tuberville forts in the historic Louisiana flooding Calendar and ordered to be printed. today and to celebrate a life exception- of 2016. ally well lived. f She previously served as president of My wife, Kelly, and I extend our con- the National Guard Association of Lou- HONORING THE LIFE AND SERVICE tinued prayers and sincerest condo- isiana, and she now serves as the sec- OF DR. JAMES DURELL lences to his wife and soulmate, Susan, retary of the National Guard Associa- TUBERVILLE and their two sons, Joshua Durell and tion of the entire United States. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Dustin Bruce, to the entire Tuberville Her dedication to the National Guard the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- family, and to all those whose lives extends way beyond what is required of uary 3, 2017, the Chair recognizes the were changed by this true giant of a anyone. Twice—and this is even more gentleman from Louisiana (Mr. JOHN- man. inspiring—Major General Sheridan has SON) for 30 minutes. RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE AND ACHIEVEMENT battled breast cancer, and with her last Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Mr. OF MAJOR GENERAL JOANNE SHERIDAN round of treatment in August, she has Speaker, it is with profound sadness Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Mr. again prevailed in that battle. Her in- that I rise today to recognize the life Speaker, I rise today to recognize a credible strength and courage serve as and dedicated service of one of the hero from my home State, Major Gen- a beacon of hope for countless many Lord’s most humble and outstanding eral Joanne Sheridan, for her steadfast others. servants, Dr. James Durell Tuberville. service to the safety and security of Mr. Speaker, it is my privilege to He made it his life’s work to help oth- the people of the State of Louisiana in honor Major General Sheridan’s many ers during difficult times, and he was a the Louisiana National Guard. accomplishments and to recognize her beacon of light and a towering figure in Five years ago, Major General Sheri- honorable service to the State of Lou- the life of countless many people, in- dan became the first female general in isiana and to our great Nation. She has cluding my own family. His lasting in- the Louisiana National Guard’s his- set a tremendous example, and I hope fluence on our community cannot be tory, and today I would like to com- her accomplishments inspire others to expressed enough, and I am humbled to mend her for raising the bar once again aspire to her level of excellence. rise and pay tribute to his life today, and becoming the first female two-star My wife, Kelly, and I thank Major his faithful stewardship, and his un- general in the history of our Louisiana General Sheridan for all she does to de- wavering commitment to the people of National Guard. fend our community and country, and our region in northwest Louisiana. Originally from Maine, Major Gen- we wish her continued success. James Durell Tuberville was born on eral Sheridan moved to Leesville, Lou- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance October 25, 1958, in Shreveport, Lou- isiana, when the Army stationed her of my time. isiana, and on Sunday, August 13, 2017, father, Command Sergeant Major Joe he left this world to be with our Lord. S. Fernald, at Fort Polk. There, she at- f After graduating from Southwood tended Leesville High School, and she High School in Shreveport, Dr. went on to earn her bachelor of arts de- LEAVE OF ABSENCE Tuberville continued his education at gree in sociology at Northeast Lou- By unanimous consent, leave of ab- Grawood Christian School and South- isiana University in Monroe, Lou- sence was granted to: western Assemblies of God College. He isiana, where she received her commis- Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas majored in pastoral ministry at South- sion through her Reserve Officers’ (at the request of Ms. PELOSI) for today western University, and received a Training Corps in May 1983. Later, she and the balance of the week on account master of arts in counseling from Lou- received a master’s degree in strategic of family illness. isiana Tech University. studies from the prestigious U.S. Army He did all things for the glory of God, War College. f Mr. Speaker, and he brought care and A true soldier for her community and compassion to multitudes. Dr. in our country, Major General Sheri- ENROLLED BILL SIGNED Tuberville served his early ministry as dan began her impressive military ca- Karen L. Haas, Clerk of the House, a youth pastor in Luna and then in reer as an Active-Duty servicemember reported and found truly enrolled a bill Natchitoches, Louisiana. He later in the U.S. Army in February 1984 at of the House of the following title, served as pastor of the Bethel Assem- Fort Polk Army Base. Throughout her which was thereupon signed by the bly of God in Shreveport for more than 33-year career, in both her Active-Duty Speaker: 11 years, before becoming counselor on and National Guard service, her leader- H.R. 3110. An act to amend the Financial the pastoral staff at Shreveport Com- ship has earned her the respect of her Stability Act of 2010 to modify the term of munity Church and president of Per- peers and included many major accom- the independent member of the Financial sonal Solutions, Inc. plishments. Stability Oversight Council.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.085 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7531 ADJOURNMENT Pollutants: Colorado, Montana, North Da- 2649. A letter from the Director, Regu- kota, South Dakota, Utah, and Wyoming; latory Management Division, Environmental Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Mr. Negative Declarations [EPA-R08-OAR-2017- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Speaker, I move that the House do now 0171; FRL-9968-11-Region 8] received Sep- cy’s direct final rule — Air Plan Approval; adjourn. tember 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Delaware; State Implementation Plan for The motion was agreed to; accord- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Interstate Transport for the 2008 Ozone ingly (at 6 o’clock and 1 minute p.m.), Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and Standard [EPA-R03-OAR-2013-0408; FRL-9968- under its previous order, the House ad- Commerce. 20-Region 3] received September 21, 2017, pur- 2642. A letter from the Director, Regu- journed until tomorrow, Wednesday, suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- latory Management Division, Environmental 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee September 27, 2017, at 3 p.m. Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- on Energy and Commerce. f cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation 2650. A letter from the Director, Regu- of Plans for Designated Facilities; New Jer- latory Management Division, Environmental EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, sey; Delegation of Authority [EPA-R02-OAR- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- ETC. 2017-0132; FRL-9968-13-Region 2] received Sep- cy’s final rule — Air Plan Approval; Dela- Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive tember 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. ware; Infrastructure Requirements for the communications were taken from the 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 2012 Fine Particulate Matter Standard [EPA- Speaker’s table and referred as follows: Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and R03-OAR-2017-0152; FRL-9967-99-Region 3] re- Commerce. ceived September 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 2635. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- 2643. A letter from the Director, Regu- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. ment of Defense, transmitting a letter on the latory Management Division, Environmental 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- approved retirement of Lieutenant General Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- ergy and Commerce. Anthony J. Rock, United States Air Force, cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation 2651. A letter from the Director, Regu- and his advancement to the grade of lieuten- of Implementation Plans; Texas; Reasonably latory Management Division, Environmental ant general on the retired list, pursuant to 10 Available Control Technology for the 2008 8- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- U.S.C. 1370(c)(1); Public Law 96-513, Sec. 112 Hour Ozone National Ambient Air Quality cy’s final rule — Finding of Failure to Sub- (as amended by Public Law 104-106, Sec. Standard [EPA-R06-OAR-2015-0496; FRL-9967- mit State Implementation Plans Required 502(b)); (110 Stat. 293); to the Committee on 53-Region 6] received September 21, 2017, pur- for the 2008 8-Hour Ozone NAAQS; California; Armed Services. suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- Sacramento Metro [EPA-R09-OAR-2017-0426; 2636. A letter from the Director, Regu- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee FRL-9966-86-Region 9] received September 21, latory Management Division, Environmental on Energy and Commerce. 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- 2644. A letter from the Director, Regu- Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the cy’s final rule — Technical Amendments to latory Management Division, Environmental Committee on Energy and Commerce. Procedure 6 [EPA-HQ-OAR-2013-0696; FRL- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- 2652. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, 9968-02-OAR] (RIN: 2060-AS86) received Sep- cy’s direct final rule — Approval and Pro- Office of Regulations and Administrative tember 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. mulgation of Air Quality Implementation Law, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Plans; West Virginia; Removal of Clean Air Homeland Security, transmitting the De- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and Interstate Rule Trading Programs Replaced partment’s temporary final rule — Safety Commerce. by Cross-State Air Pollution Rule Trading Zone; Atlantic Ocean, Ocean City, NJ [Dock- 2637. A letter from the Director, Regu- Programs [EPA-R03-OAR-2016-0574; FRL-9968- et No.: USCG-2017-0627] (RIN: 1625-AA00) re- latory Management Division, Environmental 15-Region 3] received September 21, 2017, pur- ceived September 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. cy’s direct final rule — Significant New Use 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Rules on Certain Chemical Substances [EPA- on Energy and Commerce. Transportation and Infrastructure. HQ-OPPT-2016-0331; FRL-9959-81] (RIN: 2070- 2645. A letter from the Director, Regu- 2653. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, AB27) received September 21, 2017, pursuant latory Management Division, Environmental Office of Regulations and Administrative to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Law, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on cy’s direct final rule — Approval and Pro- Homeland Security, transmitting the De- Energy and Commerce. mulgation of Air Quality Implementation partment’s temporary final rule — Safety 2638. A letter from the Director, Regu- Plans; Maryland; 2011 Base Year Inventory Zone, Delaware River; Dredging [Docket No.: latory Management Division, Environmental for the 2008 8-Hour Ozone National Ambient USCG-2017-0811] (RIN: 1625-AA00) received Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Air Quality Standard for the Maryland Por- September 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. cy’s final rule — Phosphoric Acid Manufac- tion of the Philadelphia-Wilmington-Atlan- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 turing and Phosphate Fertilizer Production tic City Nonattainment Area [EPA-R03-OAR- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- Risk and Technology Review Reconsider- 2017-0149; FRL-9968-00-Region 3] received Sep- tation and Infrastructure. ation [EPA-HQ-OAR-2012-0522; FRL-9968-01- tember 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 2654. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, OAR] (RIN: 2060-AT14) received September 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Office of Regulations and Administrative Law, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and Homeland Security, transmitting the De- Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to Commerce. 2646. A letter from the Director, Regu- partment’s temporary final rule — Safety the Committee on Energy and Commerce. latory Management Division, Environmental Zone; Dredging, Shark River, NJ [Docket 2639. A letter from the Director, Regu- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- No.: USCG-2017-0843] (RIN: 1625-AA00) re- latory Management Division, Environmental cy’s final rule — Air Plan Approval; North ceived September 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Carolina Miscellaneous Rules [EPA-R04- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. cy’s direct final rule — Approval of Kansas OAR-2016-0362; FRL-9968-10-Region 4] re- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Air Quality State Implementation Plans; ceived September 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 Transportation and Infrastructure. Construction Permits and Approvals Pro- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 2655. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, gram [EPA-R07-OAR-2017-0512; FRL-9967-97- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- Office of Regulations and Administrative Region 7] received September 21, 2017, pursu- ergy and Commerce. Law, U.S. Coast Guard, Department of ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- 2647. A letter from the Director, Regu- Homeland Security, transmitting the De- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee latory Management Division, Environmental partment’s temporary final rule — Safety on Energy and Commerce. Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Zone; Delaware River, Philadelphia, PA 2640. A letter from the Director, Regu- cy’s final rule — Air Plan Approval; Min- [Docket No.: USCG-2017-0543] (RIN: 1625- latory Management Division, Environmental nesota; Prevention of Significant Deteriora- AA00) received September 21, 2017, pursuant Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- tion [EPA-R05-OAR-2016-0603; FRL-9968-22- to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, cy’s final rule — Approval of Air Quality Im- Region 5] received September 21, 2017, pursu- Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on plementation Plans; New Jersey, 2011 Peri- ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- Transportation and Infrastructure. odic Emission Inventory SIP for the Ozone 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee 2656. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, Nonattainment and PM2.5/Regional Haze on Energy and Commerce. U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Areas [EPA-R02-OAR-2017-0044; FRL-9968-05- 2648. A letter from the Director, Regu- Security, transmitting the Department’s Region 2] received September 21, 2017, pursu- latory Management Division, Environmental temporary final rule — Safety Zone; Wando ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- River, Charleston, SC [Docket No.: USCG- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee cy’s direct final rule — Air Plan Approval; 2017-0348] (RIN: 1625-AA-00) received Sep- on Energy and Commerce. GA: Emission Reduction Credits [EPA-R04- tember 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 2641. A letter from the Director, Regu- OAR-2009-0226; FRL-9968-17-Region 4] re- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 latory Management Division, Environmental ceived September 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. tation and Infrastructure. cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- 2657. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, of State Plans for Designated Facilities and ergy and Commerce. U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K26SE7.089 H26SEPT1 H7532 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE September 26, 2017 Security, transmitting the Department’s jointly to the Committees on Natural Re- H.R. 3834. A bill to provide that members final rule — Drawbridge Operation Regula- sources and Foreign Affairs. of public safety agencies who died of 9/11-re- tion; Gulf Intracoastal Waterway, Sarasota, f lated health conditions are eligible for the FL [Docket No.: USCG-2016-0330] (RIN: 1625- Presidential 9/11 Heroes Medal of Valor, and AA09) received September 21, 2017, pursuant REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON for other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS nancial Services. Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on By Mrs. DAVIS of California: Transportation and Infrastructure. Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of H.R. 3835. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- 2658. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, committees were delivered to the Clerk cation Act of 1965 to eliminate origination U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland for printing and reference to the proper fees for Federal Direct Loans; to the Com- Security, transmitting the Department’s calendar, as follows: mittee on Education and the Workforce. final rule — Drawbridge Operation Regula- Mr. GOODLATTE: Committee on the Judi- By Mrs. DAVIS of California: tion; Rice Creek, Putnam County, FL [Dock- ciary. H.R. 3229. A bill to protect the safety H.R. 3836. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- et No.: USCG-2016-0523] (RIN: 1625-AA09) re- of judges by extending the authority of the cation Act of 1965 and the Truth in Lending ceived September 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 Judicial Conference to redact sensitive infor- Act to clarify the application of prepayment U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. mation contained in their financial disclo- amounts on student loans; to the Committee 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on sure reports, and for other purposes (Rept. on Education and the Workforce, and in ad- Transportation and Infrastructure. 115–332). Referred to the Committee of the dition to the Committee on Financial Serv- 2659. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, Whole House on the state of the Union. ices, for a period to be subsequently deter- U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland Mr. SESSIONS: Committee on Rules. mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- Security, transmitting the Department’s House Resolution 538. Resolution providing sideration of such provisions as fall within final rule — Drawbridge Operation Regula- for consideration of the bill (H.R. 3823) to the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. tion; Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway, Little amend title 49, United States Code, to extend By Mr. DEUTCH: H.R. 3837. A bill to amend the Federal Elec- River to Savannah River, Beaufort, SC authorizations for the airport improvement tion Campaign Act of 1971 to require the Fed- [Docket No.: USCG-2015-0343] (RIN: 1625- program, to amend the Internal Revenue eral Election Commission to establish and AA09) received September 21, 2017, pursuant Code of 1986 to extend the funding and ex- operate a website through which members of to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, penditure, authority of the Airport and Air- the public may view the contents of certain Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on way Trust Fund, to provide disaster tax re- political advertisements, to require the Transportation and Infrastructure. lief, and for other purposes, and providing for 2660. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, sponsors of such advertisements to furnish consideration of motions to suspend the U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland the contents of the advertisements to the rules (Rept. 115–333). Referred to the House Security, transmitting the Department’s Commission, and for other purposes; to the Calendar. temporary final rule — Special Local Regu- Committee on House Administration. lation; Frogtown Regatta, Maumee River, f By Mr. DUFFY (for himself, Mr. KELLY Toledo, OH [Docket No.: USCG-2017-0754] PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS of Mississippi, Mr. THOMPSON of Mis- (RIN: 1625-AA08) received September 21, 2017, sissippi, Mr. HARPER, and Mr. LUCAS): pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law Under clause 2 of rule XII, public H.R. 3838. A bill to require the appropriate 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- bills and resolutions of the following Federal banking agencies to treat certain mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- titles were introduced and severally re- non-significant investments in the capital of ture. ferred, as follows: unconsolidated financial institutions as 2661. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, qualifying capital instruments, and for other U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland By Mr. SOTO (for himself and Mr. purposes; to the Committee on Financial Security, transmitting the Department’s CURBELO of Florida): Services. temporary final rule — Safety Zone; H.R. 3829. A bill to establish a program to By Ms. KELLY of Illinois (for herself, Tombigbee River, Demopolis, AL [Docket provide grants to States, local governments, Mr. POCAN, Mr. EVANS, Ms. LEE, Ms. No.: USCG-2017-0786] (RIN: 1625-AA00) re- and electric utilities to make electric infra- SLAUGHTER, Mr. SWALWELL of Cali- ceived September 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 structure more resilient to hurricanes, tor- fornia, Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. nadoes, and other major weather-related BUTTERFIELD, Mr. CARTWRIGHT, Ms. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on events; to the Committee on Energy and NORTON, Mrs. LAWRENCE, Ms. MOORE, Transportation and Infrastructure. Commerce. Mr. RICHMOND, Mr. KHANNA, Mr. 2662. A letter from the Attorney-Advisor, By Mr. FARENTHOLD: SCOTT of Virginia, Ms. CLARKE of New U.S. Coast Guard, Department of Homeland H.R. 3830. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- York, Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. MEEKS, Mr. Security, transmitting the Department’s enue Code of 1986 to exclude major profes- THOMPSON of Mississippi, Mr. final rule — Great Lakes Pilotage Rates — sional sports leagues from qualifying as tax- VEASEY, Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, Ms. 2017 Annual Review [USCG-2016-0268] (RIN: exempt organizations; to the Committee on MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New 1625-AC34) received September 21, 2017, pur- Ways and Means. Mexico, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Ms. suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- By Mr. TAYLOR (for himself and Mr. KUSTER of New Hampshire, Mr. 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee GONZALEZ of Texas): GUTIE´ RREZ, Mr. TONKO, Ms. ADAMS, on Transportation and Infrastructure. H.R. 3831. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- Ms. PLASKETT, Mr. WELCH, and Ms. 2663. A letter from the Chief, Publications cation Act of 1965 to expand eligibility for ESTY of Connecticut): and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue participation in the Federal Pell Grant pro- H.R. 3839. A bill to address slow economic Service, transmitting the Service’s IRB only gram to certain trade schools; to the Com- growth and spur investment and develop- rule — Relief for Hurricane Irma Victims mittee on Education and the Workforce. ment in underserved communities across (Announcement 2017-13) received September By Mr. DUNN (for himself, Ms. TENNEY, America; to the Committee on Ways and 21, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Mr. POLIQUIN, Mr. ARRINGTON, and Means, and in addition to the Committees on Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to Mr. TONKO): Education and the Workforce, Agriculture, the Committee on Ways and Means. H.R. 3832. A bill to direct the Secretary of Financial Services, Small Business, Energy 2664. A letter from the Chief, Publications Veterans Affairs to enter into a memo- and Commerce, the Judiciary, and Oversight and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue randum of understanding with the executive and Government Reform, for a period to be Service, transmitting the Service’s IRB only director of a national network of State-based subsequently determined by the Speaker, in rule — Treatment of Amounts Paid to Sec- prescription monitoring programs under each case for consideration of such provi- tion 170(c) Organizations under Employer which Department of Veterans Affairs health sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Leave-Based Donation Programs to Aid Vic- care providers shall query such network, and committee concerned. tims of Hurricane and Tropical Storm Irma for other purposes; to the Committee on Vet- By Mr. POLIS (for himself and Ms. (Notice 2017-52) received September 21, 2017, erans’ Affairs. SINEMA): pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law By Mrs. COMSTOCK (for herself, Mr. H.R. 3840. A bill to expand the use of open 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- YODER, and Mr. CICILLINE): textbooks in order to achieve savings for stu- mittee on Ways and Means. H.R. 3833. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- dents; to the Committee on Education and 2665. A letter from the Acting Assistant enue Code of 1986 to increase the child tax the Workforce. Secretary for Insular Areas, Department of credit; to the Committee on Ways and By Mr. ROGERS of Alabama (for him- the Interior, transmitting the Department’s Means. self, Ms. SINEMA, Mrs. LOVE, and Mr. ‘‘Report to the Congress: Compact Impact By Mr. CROWLEY (for himself, Mrs. CA´ RDENAS): Analysis of the 2016 Report from Guam’’, LOWEY, Mr. SUOZZI, Mr. MEEKS, Ms. H.R. 3841. A bill to amend the Food and Nu- along with the related report ‘‘Impact of the MENG, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Ms. CLARKE of trition Act of 2008 to make certain multi- Compacts of Free Association on Guam FY New York, Mr. JEFFRIES, Mr. NAD- vitamin-mineral dietary supplements eligi- 2004 through FY 2016’’ by the Governor of LER, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Mrs. CAROLYN B. ble for purchase with supplemental nutrition Guam, pursuant to 48 U.S.C. 1921c(e)(8); Pub- MALONEY of New York, Mr. SERRANO, assistance program benefits, and for other lic Law 108-188, Sec. 104(e)(8); (117 Stat. 2741); Mr. ENGEL, and Mr. DONOVAN): purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L26SE7.000 H26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H7533 By Mr. RYAN of Ohio (for himself, Mr. to pay the Debts and provide for the common Congress has the power to enact this legis- JENKINS of West Virginia, and Mr. Defence and general Welfare of the United lation pursuant to the following: YARMUTH): States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises Article I, Section 8 H.R. 3842. A bill to amend the Public shall be uniform throughout the United By Mrs. DAVIS of California: Health Service Act to reauthorize the States; H.R. 3836. Healthy Start for Infants Program; to the To borrow money on the credit of the Congress has the power to enact this legis- Committee on Energy and Commerce. United States; lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. SUOZZI (for himself and Mr. To regulate Commerce with foreign Na- Article I, Section 8 FITZPATRICK): tions, and among the several States, and By Mr. DEUTCH: H.R. 3843. A bill to amend title 18, United with the Indian Tribes; H.R. 3837. States Code, with respect to bribery; to the To establish an uniform Rule of Natu- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Committee on the Judiciary. ralization, and uniform Laws on the subject lation pursuant to the following: By Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN: of Bankruptcies throughout the United Article 1, Section 4, Clause 1 of the US H.R. 3844. A bill to restrict the authority of States; Constitution the Attorney General to enter into contracts To coin Money, regulate the Value thereof, The Times, Places and Manner of holding for Federal correctional facilities and com- and of foreign Coin, and fix the Standard of Elections for Senators and Representatives, munity confinement facilities, and for other Weights and Measures; shall be prescribed in each State by the Leg- purposes; to the Committee on the Judici- To provide for the Punishment of counter- islature thereof; but Congress may at any ary. feiting the Securities and current Coin of the time make or alter such Regulations, except By Mr. WENSTRUP (for himself, Mr. United States; as to the Place of choosing Senators. CORREA, Mr. VARGAS, Mr. LANGEVIN, To establish Post Offices and Post Roads; By Mr. DUFFY: H.R. 3838. Mr. LIPINSKI, Mr. HARRIS, Mr. To promote the Progress of Science and Congress has the power to enact this legis- LAHOOD, Mr. ABRAHAM, Mr. ROTHFUS, useful Arts, by securing for limited Times to lation pursuant to the following: and Mr. SUOZZI): Authors and Inventors the exclusive Right to Article I, section 8, clause 1 (relating to H. Con. Res. 80. Concurrent resolution ex- their respective Writings and Discoveries; the general welfare of the United States); pressing the sense of the Congress that as- To constitute Tribunals inferior to the su- and Article I, section 8, clause 3 (relating to sisted suicide (sometimes referred to as preme Court; the power to regulate interstate commerce). death with dignity, end-of-life options, aid- and Offenses against the Law of Nations; By Ms. KELLY of Illinois: in-dying, or similar phrases) puts everyone, To declare War, grant Letters of Marque and Reprisal, and make Rules concerning H.R. 3839. including those most vulnerable, at risk of Congress has the power to enact this legis- deadly harm and undermines the integrity of Captures on Land and Water; To raise and support Armies, but no Appro- lation pursuant to the following: the health care system; to the Committee on Article 1, Section 8 Energy and Commerce. priation of Money to that Use shall be for a longer Term than two Years; By Mr. POLIS: By Mr. SMITH of New Jersey (for him- H.R. 3840. self and Mr. MCGOVERN): To provide and maintain a Navy; To make Rules for the Government and Congress has the power to enact this legis- H. Res. 537. A resolution promoting United lation pursuant to the following: States national security and foreign policy Regulation of the land and naval Forces; To provide for calling forth the Militia to Article 1, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- objectives through consolidation and tion strengthening of the rule of law and respect execute the Laws of the Union, suppress In- surrections and repel Invasions; By Mr. ROGERS of Alabama: for human rights in the Republic of Azer- H.R. 3841. To provide for organizing, arming, and dis- baijan; to the Committee on Foreign Affairs. Congress has the power to enact this legis- ciplining, the Militia, and for governing such By Ms. LEE (for herself, Mr. BURGESS, lation pursuant to the following: Part of them as may be employed in the Ms. NORTON, Ms. WILSON of Florida, Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the United Service of the United States, reserving to Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Mr. GRI- States Constitution the States respectively, the Appointment of JALVA, Mr. EVANS, Mr. HASTINGS, Ms. By Mr. RYAN of Ohio: the Officers, and the Authority of training JACKSON LEE, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. H.R. 3842. the Militia according to the discipline pre- MEEKS, and Mr. PAYNE): Congress has the power to enact this legis- H. Res. 539. A resolution calling for sickle- scribed by Congress; lation pursuant to the following: cell trait research, surveillance, and public To exercise exclusive Legislation in all Article I, Section 8: To make all Laws education and awareness; to the Committee Cases whatsoever, over such District (not ex- which shall be necessary and proper for car- on Energy and Commerce. ceeding ten Miles square) as may, by Cession rying into Execution the foregoing Powers, By Mr. PASCRELL (for himself and of particular States, and the acceptance of and all other Powers vested by this Constitu- Congress, become the Seat of the Govern- Mr. KING of New York): tion in the Government of the United States, H. Res. 540. A resolution expressing support ment of the United States, and to exercise or in any Department or Officer thereof. for the designation of September 2017 as like Authority over all Places purchased by By Mr. SUOZZI: ‘‘Campus Fire Safety Month’’; to the Com- the Consent of the Legislature of the State H.R. 3843. mittee on Education and the Workforce. in which the Same shall be, for the Erection Congress has the power to enact this legis- of Forts, Magazines, Arsenals, dock-Yards, lation pursuant to the following: f and other needful Buildings; And Under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitu- CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY To make all Laws which shall be necessary tion, Congress has the power ‘‘to make all STATEMENT and proper for carrying into Execution the Laws which shall be necessary and proper for foregoing Powers, and all other Powers vest- carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of ed by this Constitution in the Government of ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- the Rules of the House of Representa- the United States, or in any Department or stitution in the Government of the United tives, the following statements are sub- Officer thereof. States, or any Department or Officer there- mitted regarding the specific powers By Mr. DUNN: of’’ granted to Congress in the Constitu- H.R. 3832. By Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3844. tion to enact the accompanying bill or lation pursuant to the following: joint resolution. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article I, section 8—Congress shall create lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. SOTO: all laws it deems necessary and proper. Article 1, Sections 1 and 8 H.R. 3829. By Mrs. COMSTOCK: f Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3833. lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- ADDITIONAL SPONSORS Article I, Section 8, of the United States lation pursuant to the following: Constitution. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 (Power to lay Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors By Mr. FARENTHOLD: and collect taxes) were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 3830. By Mr. CROWLEY: tions, as follows: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 3834. H.R. 29: Mr. NORMAN. lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 36: Mr. STIVERS, Mrs. HANDEL, Mr. Article I, Section 8 lation pursuant to the following: ESTES of Kansas, Mr. ZELDIN, Mr. GRAVES of By Mr. TAYLOR: Article I, Section 8, Clause 18: ‘‘The Con- Georgia, Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee, Mr. BRAT, H.R. 3831. gress shall have Power [ . . . ] to make all Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia, and Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- laws, which shall be necessary and proper for MCCAUL. lation pursuant to the following: carrying into execution the foregoing pow- H.R. 44: Mr. LOUDERMILK. Article 1 Section 8 ers. H.R. 113: Mrs. BUSTOS, Mr. DOGGETT, Mr. The Congress shall have Power To lay and By Mrs. DAVIS of California: CAPUANO, Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER, and Mr. collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, H.R. 3835. BARR.

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H.R. 154: Mr. COSTA. H.R. 1889: Mr. NORCROSS. H.R. 3275: Mr. TONKO and Mr. PANETTA. H.R. 216: Mr. ROE of Tennessee. H.R. 1911: Mr. HIMES, Ms. JUDY CHU of Cali- H.R. 3312: Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER, Mr. H.R. 227: Ms. MCCOLLUM and Mr. DEFAZIO. fornia, Ms. LOFGREN, and Mr. PALLONE. BUCSHON, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. MAST, Mr. H.R. 241: Mr. OLSON. H.R. 2049: Mr. PALLONE. SMITH of Missouri, Mr. RATCLIFFE, and Mr. H.R. 246: Mr. MCKINLEY, Mr. NEWHOUSE, H.R. 2077: Mr. COFFMAN. FITZPATRICK. and Mr. BUCSHON. H.R. 2095: Ms. MOORE. H.R. 3314: Ms. ESHOO and Ms. NORTON. H.R. 392: Mr. LATTA and Mr. ESTES of Kan- H.R. 2147: Mr. JONES. H.R. 3320: Mr. TED LIEU of California. sas. H.R. 2148: Mr. BUDD and Mr. MESSER. H.R. 3324: Mr. ROYCE of California. ELANEY CHAKOWSKY H.R. 411: Mr. DELANEY. H.R. 2193: Mr. D , Ms. S , H.R. 3325: Mr. FASO and Mr. SWALWELL of H.R. 449: Mr. KHANNA. Mr. KINZINGER, and Mr. VEASEY. California. H.R. 2225: Mr. JOYCE of Ohio, Mr. OLSON, H.R. 519: Mrs. NAPOLITANO. H.R. 3327: Mr. CASTRO of Texas. Mr. BARLETTA, Mr. LOEBSACK, Mr. LOBIONDO, H.R. 535: Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Mr. SMITH H.R. 3329: Ms. ROSEN, Mr. BROWN of Mary- Mr. DELANEY, Mr. LIPINSKI, Mr. HIMES, Mr. of New Jersey, Mr. LOBIONDO, and Mr. ROSS. land, Mr. CARTER of Georgia, and Mr. HOL- KING of New York, Mr. EVANS, Mr. HURD, H.R. 576: Mr. REICHERT, Mr. BARR, and Mr. LINGSWORTH. Miss GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N of Puerto Rico, Mr. MEEHAN. H.R. 3333: Ms. CHENEY. YRNE MUCKER IBBS H.R. 586: Mr. NORMAN. B , Mr. S , and Mr. G . H.R. 3345: Mr. MCGOVERN. H.R. 2228: Mr. NORMAN. H.R. 620: Mr. GOSAR, Mr. WOMACK, Mr. SES- H.R. 3363: Mrs. BLACKBURN. H.R. 2318: Ms. NORTON and Mr. BISHOP of SIONS, Mr. DENT, Mr. MCCLINTOCK, and Mr. H.R. 3368: Ms. BORDALLO. Georgia. WESTERMAN. H.R. 3378: Mr. LUETKEMEYER. H.R. 2327: Mr. GOHMERT. H.R. 644: Mr. NORMAN. H.R. 3380: Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of H.R. 2405: Mr. GROTHMAN and Mr. ALLEN. EYER New Mexico. H.R. 676: Mr. B . H.R. 2408: Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts, Mr. H.R. 685: Mr. RYAN of Ohio. H.R. 3427: Mr. KHANNA. HASTINGS, and Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of H.R. 3513: Mr. WALZ. H.R. 747: Mr. WEBER of Texas, Miss RICE of New York. H.R. 3520: Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- New York, Mr. CRIST, and Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 2426: Mr. CLAY. ´ H.R. 807: Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsyl- H.R. 2436: Mr. YOUNG of Iowa, Mr. PETERS, sylvania and Mr. CARDENAS. STY vania. Mr. KIND, Ms. BONAMICI, Mr. WELCH, Mr. H.R. 3528: Ms. E of Connecticut. H.R. 3548: Mr. ABRAHAM and Mr. MCCLIN- H.R. 809: Mr. ROUZER. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. DEFA- TOCK. H.R. 820: Mr. CORREA. ZIO, Ms. LEE, Mr. POLIS, Mrs. BEATTY, Ms. H.R. 3602: Ms. JAYAPAL, Mr. SMITH of Wash- H.R. 846: Mr. GARAMENDI, Mr. SIRES, Mr. LOFGREN, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of New ington, and Mr. CROWLEY. CONYERS, Ms. NORTON, Mr. HUNTER, and Mr. York, Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire, Mr. H.R. 3606: Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mr. JEFFRIES, JODY B. HICE of Georgia. COSTA, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. TED LIEU of Mr. CAPUANO, Ms. MOORE, and Mr. FOSTER. H.R. 855: Mr. CAPUANO. California, Ms. NORTON, Mr. EVANS, Mr. H.R. 3621: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 899: Mr. NORMAN and Mr. ROKITA. BISHOP of Georgia, and Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN H.R. 3624: Mr. LOWENTHAL and Mr. SCHIFF. H.R. 905: Mr. FITZPATRICK. GRISHAM of New Mexico. H.R. 3638: Mr. YOHO. H.R. 907: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. H.R. 2452: Ms. LOFGREN. ´ H.R. 909: Mr. ROYCE of California and Mrs. H.R. 2482: Mr. FITZPATRICK, Mr. SCHNEIDER, H.R. 3671: Mr. NADLER and Mr. GUTIERREZ. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. GOTTHEIMER, Ms. BASS, Mr. AGUILAR, and H.R. 3673: Mr. GALLAGHER. IND ARSON H.R. 916: Mr. NORMAN. Mr. REICHERT. H.R. 3679: Mr. K , Mr. L of Con- H.R. 918: Mr. COHEN. H.R. 2499: Mr. QUIGLEY. necticut, Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas, Mr. PAL- H.R. 936: Mr. BACON, Mr. TURNER, Mr. TED H.R. 2513: Mr. NORMAN. LONE, and Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. LIEU of California, and Mr. KING of New H.R. 2521: Mr. NORMAN. H.R. 3695: Mr. DESAULNIER, Mr. DEUTCH, York. H.R. 2556: Mr. BLUMENAUER. Ms. MATSUI, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. HECK, Ms. LEE, H.R. 964: Mr. KENNEDY and Mr. H.R. 2628: Ms. DELBENE, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. Mr. ESPAILLAT, Mr. CICILLINE, Ms. ROSEN, FITZPATRICK. SMITH of Washington, and Mr. ELLISON. Mr. CAPUANO, and Mr. POLIS. H.R. 1017: Mr. YOHO. H.R. 2651: Mr. MESSER and Mr. DELANEY. H.R. 3711: Mr. ROKITA. H.R. 1066: Mr. O’ROURKE. H.R. 2666: Mr. COLE. H.R. 3740: Mr. POLIS. H.R. 1148: Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH. H.R. 2705: Mr. CRAMER. H.R. 3745: Mrs. BEATTY. H.R. 1150: Mr. YOHO and Mr. GRAVES of Mis- H.R. 2719: Ms. DELAURO and Mr. H.R. 3755: Ms. HANABUSA, Mrs. WATSON souri. LOWENTHAL. COLEMAN, Mr. EVANS, Mr. BEYER, Mr. THOMP- H.R. 1159: Mr. HULTGREN. H.R. 2740: Mr. SMITH of Texas, Mr. SON of Mississippi, and Mr. AL GREEN of H.R. 1164: Mr. EMMER, Mr. MACARTHUR, Mr. ROTHFUS, Mr. AGUILAR, Mr. MULLIN, Mr. Texas. ABRAHAM, Mr. BLUM, Mr. KATKO, Mr. ROE of GOHMERT, Mr. GROTHMAN, Mr. SCHNEIDER, H.R. 3758: Mr. POSEY. Tennessee, and Mr. FLORES. and Mr. FLEISCHMANN. H.R. 3770: Mr. TED LIEU of California, Ms. H.R. 1176: Mr. KEATING. H.R. 2777: Mr. DOGGETT, Mr. CASTRO of ESTY of Connecticut, Mr. SCHNEIDER, Mrs. H.R. 1267: Mr. PAULSEN. Texas, and Ms. ROSEN. BUSTOS, Mr. GOTTHEIMER, Mr. ROUZER, Mr. H.R. 1279: Mrs. BEATTY and Ms. PINGREE. H.R. 2790: Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. THOMPSON of WALZ, Ms. BONAMICI, Ms. JUDY CHU of Cali- H.R. 1292: Mrs. ROBY. California, and Mr. SARBANES. fornia, Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsyl- H.R. 1298: Mr. WELCH. H.R. 2797: Miss RICE of New York. vania, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. LARSEN of Wash- H.R. 1310: Ms. MENG. H.R. 2811: Ms. SHEA-PORTER and Mr. ington, Mr. BOST, Mr. UPTON, Ms. MENG, Ms. H.R. 1357: Mr. COSTA. MCGOVERN. MATSUI, Mr. GRAVES of Georgia, Mr. CRAMER, H.R. 1406: Mr. ROYCE of California. H.R. 2820: Mr. MOULTON. Mr. KELLY of Mississippi, and Mr. SWALWELL H.R. 1409: Mr. STIVERS and Mr. TAKANO. H.R. 2871: Ms. MCSALLY. of California. H.R. 2895: Mr. PALLONE. H.R. 1438: Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, Mrs. H.R. 3774: Mr. MITCHELL. H.R. 2926: Mr. HILL, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York, and Mr. H.R. 3776: Ms. ROSEN. GOWDY, and Mr. SIMPSON. CROWLEY. H.R. 3784: Mr. QUIGLEY, Mr. SIMPSON, Mr. H.R. 2954: Mr. LATTA and Mr. ARRINGTON. H.R. 1456: Mrs. MURPHY of Florida, Mr. MI- NADLER, Mr. COLE, Ms. ESTY of Connecticut, H.R. 2976: Mr. SCHIFF, Ms. ROSEN, and Ms. CHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsylvania, Mr. CAPU- Ms. BORDALLO, Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. COOK, and BONAMICI. ANO, and Mr. SARBANES. Mr. ELLISON. H.R. 2989: Mr. MEEHAN. H.R. 1468: Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsylvania. H.R. 3795: Mr. PETERS. H.R. 2996: Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana, Mr. H.R. 1472: Mr. NOLAN. H.R. 3815: Ms. NORTON, Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. GAETZ, Mr. WOMACK, and Mr. FRANKS of Ari- H.R. 1515: Mr. CRIST. zona. SOTO, and Mr. CRIST. H.R. 1539: Mr. HARPER. H.R. 3817: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 3011: Mr. DEFAZIO and Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 1575: Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsylvania. H.R. 3053: Mr. HUIZENGA, Mr. BUDD, Mr. H.R. 3822: Ms. TENNEY and Mr. H.R. 1649: Mr. ELLISON. POE of Texas, Mr. MOOLENAAR, Mr. LOUDERMILK. H.R. 1676: Mr. KILDEE and Mr. RUTHERFORD. CRAWFORD, Mr. KELLY of Mississippi, Mrs. H.R. 3827: Ms. JUDY CHU of California. H.R. 1698: Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. EWHOUSE BLACK, and Mrs. WAGNER. H.J. Res. 61: Mr. N . H.R. 1699: Mr. ROKITA. H.R. 3076: Ms. NORTON. H.J. Res. 75: Mr. GRIJALVA. H.R. 1730: Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 3108: Mr. FITZPATRICK. H. Con. Res. 10: Mr. FRANKS of Arizona. H.R. 1731: Mr. LOWENTHAL and Mr. H.R. 3152: Mr. PAYNE. H. Res. 15: Mr. GUTHRIE. DELANEY. H.R. 3174: Mr. WELCH and Ms. ESHOO. H. Res. 68: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 1811: Mr. MCGOVERN and Mr. H.R. 3186: Mr. DELANEY. H. Res. 220: Mr. POLIS, Ms. PINGREE, and O’ROURKE. H.R. 3227: Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ. Mr. DONOVAN. H.R. 1825: Mr. COURTNEY and Mr. PAULSEN. H.R. 3248: Mr. SCHNEIDER. H. Res. 248: Mr. NORMAN. H.R. 1838: Mr. CRAWFORD. H.R. 3269: Mr. PANETTA. H. Res. 257: Mr. POLIS. H.R. 1847: Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. H.R. 3273: Mr. LOWENTHAL. H. Res. 279: Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS. H.R. 1861: Mr. WILLIAMS, Mr. LABRADOR, H.R. 3274: Mr. CARTER of Texas, Mr. BISHOP H. Res. 342: Mr. DONOVAN. and Mrs. NOEM. of Utah, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. SIMP- H. Res. 401: Mr. LIPINSKI. H.R. 1865: Mr. PAULSEN. SON, and Mr. CRAMER. H. Res. 433: Mr. GROTHMAN.

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H. Res. 495: Ms. SEWELL of Alabama and OFFERED BY MRS. BLACK sion Act of 2017, that fall within the jurisdic- Mr. LOBIONDO. The provisions that warranted a referral to tion of the Committee on Transportation H. Res. 497: Mr. HUFFMAN. the Committee on the Budget in H.R. 3823, and Infrastructure do not contain any con- H. Res. 501: Mr. ELLISON, Ms. NORTON, and the Disaster Tax Relief and Airport and Air- gressional earmarks, limited tax benefits, or Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsylvania. way Extension Act of 2017, do not contain limited tariff benefits as defined in clause 9 H. Res. 507: Mr. ELLISON. any congressional earmarks, limited tax of House rule XXI. H. Res. 529: Mr. GALLAGHER and Ms. PIN- benefits, or limited tariff benefits as defined OFFERED BY MR. WALDEN GREE. in clause 9 of rule XXI. The provisions that warranted a referral to H. Res. 532: Mr. LAMALFA, Mr. ROGERS of OFFERED BY MR. BRADY OF TEXAS Alabama, Mr. PITTENGER, Mr. HARRIS, Mr. the Committee on Energy and Commerce in The provisions that warranted a referral to LAMBORN, Mr. CRAMER, Mr. CARTER of Geor- H.R. 3823 do not contain any congressional the Committee on Ways and Means in H.R. gia, Mr. FARENTHOLD, Mr. MCKINLEY, Mr. earmarks, limited tax benefits, or limited 3823 do not contain any congressional ear- tariff benefits as defined in clause 9 of rule MURPHY of Pennsylvania, Mr. BROOKS of Ala- marks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff XXI. bama, and Mr. NORMAN. benefits as defined in clause 9 of rule XXI. f OFFERED BY MR. HENSARLING f CONGRESSIONAL EARMARKS, LIM- The provisions that warranted a referral to ITED TAX BENEFITS, OR LIM- the Committee on Financial Service in H.R. ITED TARIFF BENEFITS 3823 do not contain any congressional ear- DELETION OF SPONSORS marks, limited tax benefits, or limited tariff Under clause 9 of rule XXI, lists or benefits as defined in clause 9 of rule XXI. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors statements on congressional earmarks, OFFERED BY MR. SHUSTER were deleted from public bills and reso- limited tax benefits, or limited tariff The provisions of H.R. 3823, the Disaster lutions, as follows: benefits were submitted as follows: Tax Relief and Airport and Airway Exten- H.R. 3005: Mr. O’HALLERAN.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:52 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE7.030 H26SEPT1 E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 115 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 26, 2017 No. 154 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was idea that is gaining increasing cur- We want the people of Puerto Rico called to order by the President pro rency with our friends on the other and the islands to know that we are tempore (Mr. HATCH). side of the aisle. Some call it single thinking of them, and, more impor- f payer. Others try to dress it up with tantly, we want them to know that we poll-tested PR labels. will continue to work with FEMA, the PRAYER No matter what you call it, at its Department of Defense, and the rest of The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- core, here is what it is: a massive ex- the administration to help in the re- fered the following prayer: pansion of a failed idea, a quadrupling covery. Let us pray. down on the failures of ObamaCare, a I expect we will hear more soon on Holy God, who causes wars to cease, totally government-run system that what additional resources will be nec- bring peace to our Nation and world. would rip health insurance plans away essary in Puerto Rico and elsewhere in Let that peace first begin in our from even more Americans and take the paths of the storms. The recovery hearts. away even more of their personal effort is certainly not going to be easy. Use our lawmakers to bring a spirit healthcare decisions. The costs of im- It is not going to be quick. But we are of concord instead of chaos to our plementing it would be astronomical. here to do our part. The taxes required to pay for it would world. May they set aside time each f day to be still in Your presence. Lord, be sky high. Yet, after years of RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME help them to know that time spent ObamaCare’s failures—its higher costs, with You is never wasted. Permit this diminished choices, collapsing mar- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under kets—it seems this is the best our daily contact with You to motivate the previous order, the leadership time Democratic friends can come up with— them to exalt You in their lives, as is reserved. not a new idea but quadrupling down You use them to provide examples of f on an old one that has already failed. how people can live if they put their What a contrast with the general ap- CONCLUSION OF MORNING trust completely in You. proach Senators GRAHAM and CASSIDY BUSINESS Lord God of Hosts, continue to abide and many other Republicans have pur- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Morning with us in sunshine and shadows. And sued. business is closed. Lord, be especially with the people of We think the American people de- f Puerto Rico. serve a better way forward—like re- We pray in Your sacred Name. Amen. turning more power from the Federal NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- f Government to the States where Amer- TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR 2018—MOTION TO PROCEED PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE icans actually live, allowing for reforms that can actually lower costs The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under The President pro tempore led the and improve care, and actually moving the previous order, the Senate will re- Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: beyond the growing failures of a failed sume consideration of the motion to I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the law called ObamaCare. proceed to S. 1519, which the clerk will United States of America, and to the Repub- As I said, what we saw last night re- report. lic for which it stands, one nation under God, minds us of this stark contrast in vi- The senior assistant legislative clerk indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. sion. It is an important debate for our read as follows: f country. It is one that will certainly Motion to proceed to Calendar No. 165, S. RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY continue. 1519, a bill to authorize appropriations for LEADER f fiscal year 2018 for military activities of the Department of Defense, for military con- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN struction, and for defense activities of the SASSE). The majority leader is recog- ISLANDS RECOVERY EFFORT Department of Energy, to prescribe military nized. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, on personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and for other purposes. f another matter, we have seen all the serious problems facing the people of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- HEALTHCARE Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Is- ator from Illinois. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, last lands as a result of recent hurricanes. HEALTHCARE night on television, we saw a stark The damage has been terrible. The lat- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, over the contrast between two different visions est hurricane was especially dev- last few days, three Republican Sen- of healthcare in our country. One is an astating. ators have publicly stated that they

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

S6097

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:33 Sep 26, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.000 S26SEPT1 S6098 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 will vote against the healthcare repeal ship: Step back. Let’s vote on Graham- thing when the bill to change Amer- bill that may come to the Senate this Cassidy. Don’t do anything more on a ica’s healthcare system is opposed by week. bipartisan basis. the people who provide healthcare to In announcing his opposition, one Re- Well, this is the week for that vote, America. All of them oppose it. It is publican Senator, JOHN MCCAIN of Ari- and I hope it is the week in which that that bad. zona, issued the following statement: vote ends in the basic defeat of the ap- Republican leaders want to force a ‘‘As I have repeatedly stressed, proach and a return to bipartisan com- vote this week. If that is what it takes, healthcare reform legislation ought to promise and bipartisan negotiation. then we have to move to that vote, but be the product of regular order in the I don’t know what it will take for the I wish they would save some time. I Senate.’’ Republicans in the Senate and the wish they would move to this bipar- Last night, Republican Senator House to end this never-ending crusade tisan negotiation I referred to earlier. SUSAN COLLINS of Maine stated: ‘‘This against so-called ObamaCare. They The Congressional Budget Office is a is simply not the way that we should have voted 50, 60, 70 times. We know nonpartisan agency that is supposed to be approaching an important and com- how they feel about it, but the Amer- measure the impact of legislation so plex issue.’’ ican people have said to them: It is not that, before we vote on it, we know if She went on to say: ‘‘The fact that a enough to oppose ObamaCare; give us a it is good or bad for the Nation and for new version of this bill was released better alternative. And that is where the people we represent. Here is what it the very week we are supposed to vote they have stumbled each time. told us last night in a preliminary re- compounds the problem.’’ Over the weekend, rather than mak- view, but it has not had time to review This should be the end of the Gra- ing improvements to fix what is wrong this bill in detail. ham-Cassidy repeal debate. Republican with their bill, many Republicans dou- In a preliminary review, the CBO told leadership should finally scrap this bled down in secret meetings, negotia- us: ‘‘The number of people with com- one-sided effort to literally change the tions, and with incentives that were prehensive health insurance . . . would healthcare system for America. built into the newest version of the be reduced by millions each year.’’ There was a hearing yesterday—the bill. How in the world can we as Senators only hearing on the bill we are about The latest Graham-Cassidy repeal make a proposal for the United States to vote on. It was a lengthy hearing, measure would slash funding to the of America which we know will take but it, frankly, did not entertain all of States, decimate the Medicaid Pro- health insurance coverage away from the witnesses or any amendment proc- gram, eliminate protections for people millions of Americans—exactly the op- ess so that Members could really have with preexisting conditions, and basi- posite of what our goal should be? input into the bill we are going to face. cally throw our entire healthcare sys- The CBO went on to write: ‘‘Federal The Congressional Budget Office is tem into chaos. A few special changes spending on Medicaid would be reduced supposed to tell us what this critical were made for special States, but the by about $1 trillion.’’ legislation will do for America. It changes that have come to Graham- There are some Republicans, fiscal issued a preliminary finding yesterday Cassidy in the closing days have not conservatives who say that we have to that millions of Americans would lose really changed the fundamental prob- stop the growth of this program, but their health insurance and that those lem with the bill in that it diminishes none of them—not one of them—can with preexisting conditions, as well as Medicaid coverage. address the fundamental issue: Who their families, if they could buy insur- Medicaid is the health insurance pro- will then take care in paying for the ance, would find it very, very expen- gram about which most people say: delivery of babies to low-income fami- sive. Well, that is for the poor people of lies? Half of the children who are born At the end of this week, funding for America. To some extent, that is true, in my State of Illinois are paid for by our Nation’s community healthcare but it has reached far beyond that. Two Medicaid. Their moms are taken care centers will run out, as will funding for out of three senior citizens in nursing of by Medicaid until the moment of the Children’s Health Insurance Pro- homes and other institutional settings birth. What will you replace that with gram. Shouldn’t we be focused on reau- rely on Medicaid for basic healthcare. if you eliminate Medicaid funding? thorizing those programs appropriately If the cutbacks in Medicaid take place What about the disabled who count in a timely way? Let’s allow the HELP that Graham-Cassidy calls for, what on Medicaid as their health insurance? Committee, which is the committee of will these seniors do? What will you do If you are blind or face a serious dis- jurisdiction when it comes to for Mom, for your grandmother, or for ability, Medicaid is the answer for healthcare, to do its work. I have faith your grandfather when it reaches a basic health insurance for you. If you in two Senators—one Republican and point at which they cannot any longer are going to cut $1 trillion out of Med- one Democrat—to do the right thing on count on Medicaid to help them pay icaid, what will you say to those dis- this. Senator LAMAR ALEXANDER of their medical bills? Will American fam- abled Americans who want the same Tennessee, a Republican, and Senator ilies have to step up with their own peace of mind that we all want in hav- PATTY MURRAY of Washington, a Demo- savings? Will they have to look for al- ing health insurance? crat, have proven before that they can ternative settings to those in which School districts all over Illinois and take complex issues such as Federal their parents and grandparents are all over the Nation receive Medicaid funding for education and find a bipar- today? That is the stark choice Gra- funds to care for special ed students— tisan compromise. ham-Cassidy will create for many fami- counselors, transportation, even feed- What would America say if we an- lies across America. ing tubes. If you take the money out of nounced at the end of next week or No one has had time to properly re- Medicaid, what will we do for those even this week that we have a bipar- view this latest proposal, in large part school districts that are trying their tisan compromise to make healthcare because it was drafted behind closed best to give kids a fighting chance, stronger in the United States, that it is doors—no input from experts, no sup- even those with serious disabilities? going to pass the Senate, that we are port from the medical community. You That is the reality. going to send to it the House, and that would think, after saying it over and The CBO went on to write: ‘‘Coverage we are going to get something done over again, that the Republicans would for people with preexisting conditions this year in the Senate? challenge the following statement: would be much more expensive . . . and First, most Americans would be There is no medical advocacy group in could become unavailable for many amazed and skeptical, as they should the United States of America who sup- more people.’’ be, but if we can prove that we are ports the Graham-Cassidy bill. That is This Republican proposal takes us going to do it, they would applaud us the case in my State. The Illinois Hos- back to that moment in history when for finally reaching a point at which we pital Association, doctors, nurses, sur- health insurance was so expensive and do something on a bipartisan basis. geons, pediatricians, and community so hard to find—almost impossible for That was the process that was under- health are all opposed to this bill, those with preexisting conditions. Why way until last week. Senator ALEX- every single one of them, as they were would we ever want to go back to that? ANDER was given orders by the leader- to the previous versions. It says some- There is hardly a family in America

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:33 Sep 26, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.002 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6099 who does not have someone they love, Republicans say that this is all about Medicaid cuts would ‘‘constitute the who is part of the family, who has a giving flexibility to States. We hear largest transfer of financial risk from preexisting condition. that over and over again. It sure the federal government to the states in Let me remind those who do not have sounds nice until you realize that it is our country’s history.’’ that circumstance that you are one ac- a code word for there being massive Show me a State that can cover as cident or one diagnosis away from funding cuts and the elimination of many people with the same benefits if being part of this class of Americans basic health protection. one-third of the money is taken away. who wants health insurance even In the name of ‘‘State flexibility,’’ That is what the Republican bill does. though the health of those Americans this bill would allow insurers to charge Here is what Governor Sandoval, a has not been perfect. those with preexisting conditions sky- Republican Governor in Nevada, said: In sum, this bill does not do what its high premiums the moment they get Flexibility with reduced funding is a false authors say it will. They like to tell sick. choice. . . . I will not pit seniors, children, the American public that States will Under this bill, ‘‘State flexibility’’ families, the mentally ill, hospitals, care magically be able to cover the same means reimposing annual and lifetime providers, or any other Nevadan against each number of people and provide the same limits on patients, including infants other because of cuts to Nevada’s health sys- level of benefits with billions of dollars who are born with serious medical tem proposed by Graham-Cassidy. less in funding. The Governors—Demo- problems. This is a Governor speaking in the crats and Republicans—have stepped Under TrumpCare, ‘‘State flexi- same clear terms as Governors of both up and said: This is ridiculous. We can- bility’’ means charging Americans over political parties about the impossible not be asked to accept the burden of the age of 50 up to five times more than dilemma that would be created by this health insurance for generations to younger people. That is exactly why bill. come, while the Federal Government the American Association of Retired Enough is enough. The law that we continues to cut the money that is nec- Persons, the AARP, has steadfastly op- passed, the Affordable Care Act, helped essary to provide that protection. posed these Republican changes. 20 million people get health coverage. The CBO rejected the claims that are To my Republican friends, ‘‘State People with preexisting conditions the basis for this Republican bill. Since flexibility’’ means tossing out essential were finally protected. Women are no the Republicans refuse to wait for the health benefits, which is the guarantee longer discriminated against when it CBO to complete its full analysis, we that your insurance will cover the comes to health insurance. Americans have asked outside health experts what basic services your family may need— get free preventive healthcare, such as they think the impact would be of this prescription drugs, maternity care, cancer screenings. Is it a perfect law? legislation which is before us this mental health and addiction treat- Not by any means, but at 3 percent of week. ment. the individual market, we need to do Here is what they say: Within a few I spoke to one of my Republican col- better, and we can. We need to improve years, this bill would likely rip health leagues the other day and asked: What that market. insurance away from more than 20 mil- are you driving at here? Are you saying First, the Trump administration lion Americans, including 1 million that we can reduce the cost of health must do its best to help us, not hurt people in the State of Illinois. In a insurance if we give people the option healthcare in America. If they are set- State of 121⁄2 million people, which I of saying that they will not buy cov- ting out to sabotage this healthcare represent, 1 million people would lose erage for mental illness and substance system, they can do it, but I hope they health insurance because of this Re- abuse treatment? will not. The President will not suffer publican proposal that is before us this He said: Yes, that is one thing they if they do, but a lot of innocent Amer- week. can do. ican families will. It will make it hard- The average 60-year-old person in Il- I said: Then what happens next er for people to enroll in insurance linois would see his health insurance month when you discover that your groups. It will slash funding for out- premiums increase by $11,700 a year. daughter, a sophomore in high school, reach. It will actively discourage insur- Almost by $1,000 a month his health in- is now taking opioids and may move to ers to offer health plans to individuals. surance would go up. Why? Because heroin next? You want to intervene. Mr. President, I am going to yield they change a basic formula. In the Af- You want to do it, but now you have to the floor to the Democratic leader. fordable Care Act, we see that the dis- pay out of pocket because you didn’t In closing, I ask unanimous consent parity in premiums charged between buy the essential coverage of mental that the September 22, 2017, article in the highest and lowest will be no more illness and substance abuse treatment. the New Yorker by Dr. Atul Gawande than 3 to 1. They change the ratio in It is a shortsighted game to reduce be printed in the RECORD. their Republican bill to 5 to 1. It means premiums and give up basic essential There being no objection, the mate- that those over the age of 50 and under benefits, but that is what Republicans rial was ordered to be printed in the 65 are going to see premium increases propose. That is why this measure is RECORD, as follows: estimated to be almost $1,000 a month. opposed by every major medical pro- [From the New Yorker, Sept. 22, 2017] By 2026, Illinois would see its vider and patient organization nation- IF THE U.S. ADOPTS THE G.O.P.’S HEALTH- healthcare funding slashed by $8 bil- wide: AARP, the American Hospital CARE BILL, IT WOULD BEANACT OF MASS lion. By 2036, this number would soar Association, the American Medical As- SUICIDE to $153 billion. sociation, the American Academy of (By Atul Gawande) Medicaid, which covers half of all Pediatrics, nurses, disability groups, The fundamental thing to understand children in Illinois and two out of three the American Heart Association, the about Senate Republicans’ latest attempt to seniors in nursing homes, would be American Lung Association, the Amer- repeal Obamacare is that the bill under con- decimated. Also, the Medicaid expan- ican Diabetes Association, and the Alz- sideration would not just undo the Afford- able Care Act—it would also end Medicaid as sion in Illinois, which helps us to com- heimer’s Association—the list goes on and on. But guess who also came out in we know it and our federal government’s bat the opioid epidemic, provide cov- half-century commitment to closing the erage for 650,000 Illinoisans, and bring opposition to this bill? Insurance com- country’s yawning gaps in health coverage. stability to our hospitals all across the missioners and Medicaid directors. And it would do so without putting in place State, would be shut down. These are the officials who would actu- any credible resources or policies to replace Here is what the Illinois Hospital As- ally have to implement these cuts. the system it is overturning. If our country sociation said about this bill: They agree with the Congressional enacts this bill, it would be an act of mass suicide. Illinois cannot absorb additional financial Budget Office that you can’t slash the In my surgery practice in Boston, I see pri- burdens and would be forced to reduce eligi- healthcare budget by 20 to 30 percent marily cancer patients. When I started out, bility, covered services, and payments to and expect that States will have ‘‘flexi- in 2003, at least one in ten of my patients was providers. The magnitude of these cuts and bility’’ to make up the difference. The uninsured. Others, who had insurance, would changes to Medicaid is staggering. bipartisan association representing discover in the course of their treatment Let’s also review what this does to every Medicaid director in the coun- that their policies had annual or lifetime people with preexisting conditions. The try—every one of them—stated that caps that wouldn’t cover their costs, or that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:33 Sep 26, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.003 S26SEPT1 S6100 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 they would face unaffordable premiums for states to use for health-care costs. The [From the Illinois Health and Hospital going forward because they now had a pre- rationale is that this would give states Association, Sept. 21, 2017] existing condition. When he was governor of ‘‘flexibility’’ to design coverage for their THE GRAHAM-CASSIDY-HELLER-JOHNSON ACA Massachusetts, it was Mitt Romney, a con- residents as they see fit. But the amount of REPEAL PROPOSAL servative, who brought Republicans and funding provided is, by multiple estimates, Democrats together to make a viable state hundreds of billions of dollars below what (By A.J. Wilhelmi) system of near-universal coverage. That sys- the A.C.A. provides. The Illinois Health and Hospital Associa- tem then served as a model for the A.C.A. The bill also nakedly shifts funds from tion opposes the latest Senate proposal to re- The results have been clear: increases in cov- Democratic-leaning states that expanded peal the Affordable Care Act, which would do erage have markedly improved people’s ac- Medicaid under the A.C.A. to Republican- great harm to patients, hospitals, the cess to care and their health. For the last leaning states that didn’t. Analyses indicate healthcare delivery system, and our state four years, health-care costs in Massachu- that states like California, Massachusetts, budget and economy. The Graham-Cassidy- setts have risen more slowly than the na- and New York will receive block-grant fund- Heller-Johnson bill is even more damaging tional average—while the national numbers ing anywhere from thirty-five to almost than the previous Senate and House repeal themselves have been at historic lows. I have sixty per cent below the health-care funding proposals. Not only will it result in the loss not seen a single uninsured patient—zero—in their residents would receive under current of healthcare coverage for up to one million a decade. And now comes an utterly reckless law. Much of those missing funds would be Illinoisans, but it will erode key protections piece of legislation that would destroy these transferred to states like Texas, Mississippi, for patients and consumers and will cut fed- gains. and Wisconsin. And special deals to make eral healthcare resources to Illinois by more To review how we got to this point: last further shifts from blue states to red states than $150 Billion. spring, the House passed a health-care-re- such as Alaska are being negotiated to win IHA also opposes changing Medicaid to a form bill that proposed to hollow out the votes. capped funding model. Illinois already ranks A.C.A.’s funding, insurance mandates, and As for what states can do with the funds 50th in the country in federal funding sup- protections for people with pre-existing con- they do receive, they would not be allowed to port per Medicaid beneficiary. Capped fund- ditions. It was immensely unpopular with use them to enroll people in Medicaid, or ing would lock Illinois into low, insufficient the public. The problem was not just that able to establish a single-payer system. And federal funding levels and shift costs to the twenty-three million Americans would lose states would not be receiving enough to con- state. their health insurance if the bill becomes tinue Obamacare on their own. The only op- law but also the Republicans’ vision of a Illinois cannot absorb additional financial tions for spending are for commercial cov- burdens that would be imposed on the state health system where insurance with erage. States will be permitted to let insur- deductibles of five thousand dollars and and would be forced to reduce eligibility, ers bring back higher costs for people with covered services, and payments to providers. more, and little or no primary-care coverage, pre-existing conditions and to reinstate an- would become the norm. The magnitude of these cuts and changes to nual and lifetime limits on coverage. And Medicaid is staggering. This summer, Senate Republicans failed to then, starting in 2026, the funding turns out We were encouraged by recent bi-partisan secure enough votes to pass a modified to only be temporary. Under the bill’s provi- negotiations to stabilize the individual mar- version of the House bill. Later, in a dra- sions, unless further action is taken then, ketplace. The Graham-Cassidy-Heller-John- matic late-night session, the Senate also re- four trillion dollars will be removed from son bill will do nothing in the short or long jected, by a single vote, a ‘‘skinny’’ repeal health-care systems over twenty years. term to create marketplace stability. bill. That bill would have repealed only the With these massive sums being flung parts of the A.C.A. that required large busi- around, it is easy to forget that this is about We urge the Senate to reject this proposal, nesses to insure their workers and all Ameri- our health as human beings. The evidence is and we implore the members of the Illinois cans to carry coverage. It would have re- that health-care programs like the A.C.A. House Delegation to oppose the bill if it sulted in a mere sixteen million more unin- save lives. The way they do so is by increas- passes the Senate. There is a great deal at sured people, according to estimates. ing the number of people who have affordable stake for the health and well-being of the The Republican bill currently being rushed access to a regular source of care and needed people of Illinois. to a vote was put forward by a group of sen- medications. Such coverage has been shown Mr. DURBIN. Finally, I ask unani- ators led by Lindsey Graham, of South Caro- to produce a substantial and increasing re- lina, and Bill Cassidy, of Louisiana. As has mous consent that the statement by duction in mortality—especially among become the apparent rule for Republican the National Association of Medicaid those with chronic illnesses, such as heart health-care bills, there have been no hear- Directors, to which I referred, be print- disease, cancer, or H.I.V.—in as little as five ings or committee reviews of the Graham- years. ed in the RECORD. Cassidy bill. And, this time, lawmakers and Virtually all of us, as we age, will develop There being no objection, the mate- the public do not even have a Congressional serious health conditions. A critical test of rial was ordered to be printed in the Budget Office analysis of the effects the bill any health reform, therefore, is whether it RECORD, as follows: would have on the budget, insurance costs, improves or reduces our prospects of having or the uninsured rate. [From the National Association of Medicaid the continuous care and medicines we need This is unprecedented: senators are moving Directors, Sept. 21, 2017] when we come to have a chronic illness. The ahead with a vote on a bill that would alter Graham-Cassidy bill fails this test. It will NAMD STATEMENT ON GRAHAM-CASSIDY the health care of every American family terminate Medicaid coverage and insurance and the condition of a sixth of our entire The Board of Directors of the National As- subsidies for some twenty million people. economy, without waiting to hear any offi- sociation of Medicaid Directors (NAMD) The entire individual-insurance market will cial, independent estimates of the con- urges Congress to carefully consider the sig- be thrown into a tailspin. Federal protec- sequences. The irresponsibility is as blithe as nificant challenges posed by the Graham- tions for insurance coverage will be gone. it is breathtaking. Before becoming a sen- Cassidy legislation. State Medicaid Directors Every major group representing patients, ator, Cassidy spent twenty-five years work- are strong proponents of state innovation in health-care professionals, health-care insti- ing as a physician in hospitals devoted to the the drive towards health care system trans- tutions, and insurers has come out vocifer- uninsured. I find it baffling that a person formation. Our members are committed to ously against this plan. Governors from with his experience would not recognize the ensuring that the programs we operate im- Alaska to Ohio to Virginia have opposed the danger of this bill. But here we are. prove health outcomes while also being fis- The Graham-Cassidy bill goes even further bill. In a highly unusual, bipartisan state- cally responsible to state and federal tax- than the bill passed by the House. It would ment, the national association representing payers. In order to succeed, however, these bring to a virtually immediate end not only the Medicaid directors of all fifty states has efforts must be undertaken in a thoughtful, the individual and employer mandates but also opposed the bill. The top health official deliberative, and responsible way. We are also the whole edifice of the Medicaid expan- in Louisiana, Cassidy’s home state, has op- concerned that this legislation would under- sion, insurance exchanges, and income-based posed the new plan. There is not a single mine these efforts in many states and fail to coverage subsidies set up under the A.C.A. metric of health or health care that the Gra- deliver on our collective goal of an improved Graham-Cassidy expects all fifty states to ham-Cassidy plan makes better. This bill is a health care system. then pass, and implement, alternative health national calamity. It should not even come 1. Graham-Cassidy would completely re- systems for tens of millions of people within to a vote. structure the Medicaid program’s financing, two years—with drastically less money, in Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask which by itself is three percent of the na- most states, than the current law provides. unanimous consent that the statement tion’s Gross Domestic Product and 25 per- This is not just impossible. It is delusional. of A.J. Wilhelmi, president and CEO of cent of the average state budget. Like BCRA, Like the House bill, Graham-Cassidy would the Illinois Health and Hospital Asso- the legislation would convert the traditional cut Medicaid payments for traditional en- Medicaid program into a per-capita cap fi- rollees—the elderly in nursing homes, preg- ciation also be printed in the RECORD. nancing system. All states will be impacted nant women in poverty, disabled children, There being no objection, the mate- by this change, regardless of their decisions etc.—by a third by 2026. A portion of the rial was ordered to be printed in the to leverage the Medicaid expansion option money saved would go into a short-term fund RECORD, as follows: under the ACA. It would also incorporate

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:27 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.001 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6101 Medicaid expansion funding and other ACA nois for his remarks. As usual, he is other side of the aisle have correctly health funds into a block grant, made avail- one of the most articulate Members of and courageously recommended. Let’s able to all states. How these block grants either side. He is also one of the most do it in regular order. will be utilized, what programs they may thoughtful and compassionate, and I Senators ALEXANDER and MURRAY fund, and the overall impact they will have have had hearings, called in witnesses, on state budgets, operations, and citizens are hope people will listen to what he has all uncertain. Taken together, the per-capita to say. and have had a lot of bipartisan discus- caps and the envisioned block grant would HEALTHCARE sions—just what this body is supposed constitute the largest intergovernmental Mr. President, I would also like to re- to do. Let’s realize that Graham-Cas- transfer of financial risk from the federal spond to what the majority leader said sidy is highly unpopular with the government to the states in our country’s this morning on healthcare. My good American people, doesn’t do what some history. While the block grant portion is in- friend Senator MCCONNELL continues are saying it does, and cuts healthcare. tended to create maximum flexibility, the to try and create this straw man be- Democrats don’t want to do that, and legislation does not provide clear and power- cause he has nothing good to say about neither do the American people. Let’s ful statutory reforms within the underlying move on and try to make our system Medicaid program commensurate with pro- his bill. He wants to make this posed funding reductions of the per capita healthcare debate about a false choice better. cap. between Graham-Cassidy on their side PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS 2. The Graham-Cassidy legislation would and single payer on our side, but as RECOVERY EFFORT require states to operationalize the block Senators SANDERS and KLOBUCHAR Mr. President, the main subject I am grant component by January 1, 2020. The made clear in an excellent debate last going to speak on today is that instead scope of this work, and the resources re- night on CNN, Democrats have a lot of of trying to take healthcare away from quired to support state planning and imple- millions of Americans, the Senate and mentation activities, cannot be overstated. ideas to improve healthcare. There is not just one; there are many, and many the White House should focus on a States will need to develop overall strate- much more pressing matter this week: gies, invest in infrastructure development, Democrats support a bunch of different systems changes, provider and managed care ideas. Each of our ideas, however, en- the desperate situation in Puerto Rico plan contracting, and perform a host of other deavors to increase coverage, improve and the Virgin Islands. After suffering from the winds and activities. The vast majority of states will the quality of care, and lower the cost rains of Hurricanes Irma and Maria, not be able to do so within the two-year of care. None of the Republican plans the island of Puerto Rico is completely timeframe envisioned here, especially con- achieve these goals. That is the dif- sidering the apparent lack of federal funding devastated. I can’t recall in my life- ference. in the bill to support these critical activi- time a hurricane wreaking such devas- ties. The difference is that one side wants to cut healthcare to average Ameri- tation on any part of the United 3. Any effort of this magnitude needs thor- States. There are 3.5 million American cans, increase premiums, and give the ough discussion, examination and analysis, citizens facing one of the gravest hu- and should not be rushed through without insurance companies far more freedom, manitarian crises in recent memory. proper deliberation. The legislative proposal and one side wants to increase care to would not even have a full CBO score until Listen to these facts. Nearly the en- the number of people covered, lower tire island is without power. The re- after its scheduled passage, which should be premiums, and provide better coverage. the bare minimum required for beginning serves of gas and diesel fuel are dan- That is the divide. consideration. With only a few legislative gerously low; there may be a 20-day Our colleagues can’t stand and de- days left for the entire process to conclude, supply left. I read in the newspaper bate that issue. They believe in letting there clearly is not sufficient time for pol- this morning that 80 percent of the the market have more say. We have icymakers, Governors, Medicaid Directors, major power lines—the big trunk lines learned that, left alone, the poor little or other critical stakeholders to engage in that deliver power—are down. Without the thoughtful deliberation necessary to en- consumer against a big market gets power, just think of what that does. sure successful long-term reforms. crushed in healthcare because there are For these reasons, we encourage Congress The Governor of Puerto Rico said infirmities. It doesn’t work like an or- last night that 40 percent of the people to revisit the topic of comprehensive Med- dinary market for a whole lot of rea- icaid reform when it can be addressed with on the island lack potable water; some the careful consideration merited by such a sons. So we are happy to have a debate estimates say it is as much as 65 per- complex undertaking—as we articulated in on the real issues. cent. The food supply is dwindling, so our June 26 statement on BCRA. Does Graham-Cassidy expand or re- people are without food. Fewer than 250 Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, what duce healthcare? They are rushing this of the island’s 1,600 cell phone towers America wants is to solve problems, through so we don’t get a full CBO re- are operational. People can’t find their not create them. The Graham-Cassidy port. I am sure my colleagues on the parents, children, or relatives. There is bill will create problems for every other side of the aisle maybe breathed no way to reach them. American family. Let’s do something some relief there. CBO said that costs I remember the day of 9/11 when cell right. On a bipartisan basis, let’s sit are likely to go way up for older Amer- phone service went out in New York down and work out improvements to icans and Americans with preexisting and I couldn’t reach my daughters. our healthcare system. Let’s stop the conditions under Graham-Cassidy. This has been going on for days and partisanship when it comes to They said that Graham-Cassidy would days and days. healthcare. Let’s come together now. reduce coverage by gutting Medicaid The damage to one of the largest We each have our grievances against and reducing subsidies that help Amer- dams on the island has created the one another, one party or the other. icans afford insurance. So there is, in- need for another massive evacuation, The American people are tired of our deed, a contrast between the parties. It but with 95 percent of the cell phones grievances. They are expecting us to do is a contrast we welcome. out of service in that part of the island, Every Republican plan this year something positive. We can do it. Let’s the evacuations have to be carried out would cause millions to lose insurance return to the bipartisan negotiation by officials going door-to-door to the and costs to go up, whereas Democrats process. nearly 70,000 residents in harm’s way, are looking at many different ideas telling them that they have to leave I think that Senators LAMAR ALEX- about how to achieve the exact oppo- their homes. Worse still, the damage to ANDER and PATTY MURRAY, Republican site. and Democrat, can lead us to a good Puerto Rico’s roads, bridges, and ports As my colleague said, we want to have isolated communities and delayed path to strengthen our healthcare sys- work in a bipartisan way to improve tem. the arrival of aid. the existing system. Senator ALEX- It is not hyperbolic to say that the I yield the floor. ANDER and Senator MURRAY have had two storms together have set Puerto RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY LEADER great negotiations. Once this repeal ef- Rico back decades. The damage is The PRESIDING OFFICER. The fort is dead and gone—this repeal and apocalyptic. It is Biblical. Democratic leader is recognized. replace—we are willing and eager to sit The situation on the U.S. Virgin Is- THANKING THE SENATOR FROM ILLINOIS down and come up with bipartisan im- lands is similar. Words and statistics Mr. SCHUMER. First, let me thank provements and do it in the regular can hardly begin to describe the devas- my dear friend and colleague from Illi- order, as some of our colleagues on the tation these Americans are beginning

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:13 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.004 S26SEPT1 S6102 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 to grapple with. It has hit home. One of no relation to the facts on the ground, The second thing that was said in my staffers couldn’t find an uncle, and as if this is a public relations campaign these speeches that I listened to is that they found him dead on the Virgin Is- and not a rescue, recovery, and rebuild- Republicans have a desire to give in- lands last night. So it hits home to all ing operation. The time for tweets and surance companies more money. I of us and to all Americans. Looking at talk is over. would love it if some Democrat would the pictures and the news reports, the The American citizens in Puerto Rico come to the floor and explain why the and the Virgin Islands need action and islands now resemble a war zone. stock prices of all the big health insur- What we need to do now is provide results. The best thing the President aid to Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin can do is to get all of the relevant peo- ers in America have been through the Islands as quickly as humanly pos- ple in his administration together and roof since the passage of ObamaCare sible—water, food, power, shelter. They come up with an aid package and de- and why the big health insurance com- need help and they need it now. liver it to us in the next day or two so panies are the people lobbying the Here is what should happen. First, that we can pass it before we leave here strongest to keep the current col- President Trump must issue a full dis- this week. lapsing ObamaCare regime in place and aster declaration for all of Puerto Rico. Again, instead of trying to take away actually asking for even more Federal Right now, 24 of the 78 municipalities healthcare from millions of Ameri- money for insurance companies. on the island are not eligible for FEMA cans—that is what we are debating It isn’t the case that the proposals grants to rebuild their homes. now, and that effort seems to be in real Republicans are making on reforming President Trump should also waive trouble—the Trump administration healthcare are something for which the the local cost-share requirement for and the Republican majority should emergency funds so that Puerto Rico put an emergency aid package on the insurance companies are cheering; can rebuild without having to worry floor before the week is out. rather, the insurance companies want about falling even deeper into debt. Carmen Yulin Cruz, the mayor of San to keep the ObamaCare regime in place While our Nation’s Armed Forces— Juan, said earlier today: ‘‘We need to and add yet more tax dollars to it. and we salute our Armed Forces all the get our act together because people are It would be great if we could have an time—are already assisting Puerto dying.’’ honest debate around here instead of Rico, more needs to be done. As the The situation is desperate. The need these sort of made-up stories that the most experienced part of our govern- is urgent. It is time to act now. Republican plans are in the interest of ment in the movement of food, water, I yield the floor. mobile power, and medical supplies, I suggest the absence of a quorum. health insurance companies. the Department of Defense should im- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The I will readily admit and have often clerk will call the roll. admitted to this body that the Repub- mediately determine what additional The senior assistant legislative clerk resources and capabilities can be de- proceeded to call the roll. lican Party has done a bad job of ex- ployed to aid Puerto Rico. If Secretary Mr. SASSE. Mr. President, I ask plaining what we are for in terms of re- Mattis hasn’t already met with the Di- unanimous consent that the order for placing ObamaCare. We have done a rector of FEMA, I hope he will do it the quorum call be rescinded. bad job, and we have not spoken with a today. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. clear voice. But speaking for myself, I Most importantly, the administra- FLAKE). Without objection, it is so or- will say that I actually want to have tion should prepare an immediate and dered. insurance play a smaller role in the interim emergency aid request, and the HEALTHCARE healthcare sector because there are all majority leader should put that pack- Mr. SASSE. Mr. President, until you age on the floor of the Senate before we sorts of things that we are currently arrived to relieve me, I had been pre- insuring against in healthcare that we leave this week. Anything less would siding since the opening of the Senate don’t ever conceivably think would be be an abject failure of our duty to come this morning, and I had the oppor- to the aid of our fellow U.S. citizens. tunity to listen to lengthy speeches a rational way to build an insurance The administration submitted a re- from the Democratic leader and the as- marketplace in other sectors. If you quest for Hurricane Harvey less than a sistant Democratic leader this morn- think of property and casualty insur- week after the storm made landfall. We ing. I would like to correct the record ance, for instance, we don’t have any are rapidly closing in on that same on three brief items. law that mandates that Allstate and marker for Maria having hit Puerto First of all, as is common, almost an State Farm have to buy my gas and Rico. We need to move fast. We need to epidemic around here, there were re- schedule my Jiffy Lube appointments. move now. Lives are at stake. peated references to the Republican de- If they did, I submit to you that we This morning I saw that President sire to cut Federal spending on Trump had tweeted that Puerto Rico would all consume a lot more gas, we healthcare for the poor and for the would do it less thoughtfully, and we was in ‘‘deep trouble,’’ but relief efforts sickest among us. That is simply not were ‘‘doing well.’’ would have Jiffy Lubes that are at the With all due respect, President true. It is an epidemic way of speaking wrong locations, open at the wrong Trump, the relief efforts are not doing around here, where people act as hours, with poor customer service, well. They are not close to good though, if you want to reduce the rate with a lack of clarity as to what serv- of growth, that is actually a cut. The enough. All any American needs to do ices they are delivering and what qual- is open up a newspaper or turn on a TV fact that people in this body say it all the time doesn’t make it true. No nor- ity metrics they have. to know that Puerto Rico is not doing mal people ever talk that way. If you We don’t try to take in other sec- well. In his tweets, President Trump also are having a debate at your house tors—the entire sector and swallow it brought up the issue of Puerto Rico’s about your household budget and you by insurance. Insurance is supposed to debt. Now, that is a totally different are spending beyond your means and be insulation and protection against issue, and it pales in comparison to the somebody proposes that next year you catastrophic loss in the event of un- immediate humanitarian crisis faced should spend 30 percent more than you foreseen, unpredictable, non-behavior- on the island. spent this year, when this year you al- ally driven events. ready spent more than you can afford, Again, now is not the time, Mr. To be clear, I don’t think the Repub- and you have big debate and you say President. Puerto Rico needs help from lican Party has spoken clearly and spo- ‘‘No. Actually, next year, let’s only aid workers, not debt collectors from ken with one voice. But for this con- Wall Street. Yes, Puerto Rico needs spend 15 percent more than we spent servative vocalist, I actually want debt relief, but first they need humani- this year,’’ that is not a cut. You will tarian relief—water, food, medicine, still spend more money next year than American healthcare to work better by fuel. you will this year. Because you have a making clear what things we want to But this fits a pattern of how our debate about the rate of growth—that insure against and what parts of the President unfortunately responds to is not the same thing as a cut. It is a healthcare delivery market we think natural disasters. He insists that relief fundamentally dishonest way of speak- might work better if moms and dads and recovery efforts are ‘‘doing well’’ ing, and we should stop doing it around and local doctors and nurses were more or ‘‘doing great,’’ and sometimes it has here. empowered by having to mediate fewer

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:13 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.008 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6103 of their transactions through the in- There are a lot of theatrics and a lot Senate, I often sat in the chair where surance space. of charades and a lot of false delibera- the Presiding Officer sits. I heard a lot So while I am not in favor of cutting tion. But right now, I am speaking to of people giving speeches on the floor. Federal spending for the poorest and an empty Chamber, and both of the I was in the Chair during an all-night sickest among us, I am in favor of hav- speeches that I heard this morning sort of filibuster by the Senator from ing a debate about how we get to a sus- from the Democratic leaders—making Texas about the repeal and replace- tainable growth rate, not the up stuff about what the Republican ment of the Affordable Care Act. I get unsustainable growth rate we are on healthcare proposals would do—those that there are arguments about it. that is going to bankrupt the next gen- were speeches all delivered to an empty While I support the Affordable Care eration. Chamber, even though the gestures im- Act—I strongly did in 2010 and still I am in favor of shrinking the plied somebody was winning a debate do—I do want to work with my col- amount of money that goes to insur- when that was happening. leagues to find solutions to improve ance companies. The plans being de- Once upon a time—there is no golden healthcare. There are differences of bated here on the floor tend to be de- age in world history; we all live post opinion about it. bates where a lot of the Democrats ac- fall. But once upon a time, this really One thing I never heard during all of tually want to have a conversation was the greatest deliberative body in the speeches that I heard, either as a about how we can give even more the world. Two hundred forty years ago presider or paying attention on the money to insurance companies. They when the Constitution built a system floor, was Members getting up and say- often have Orwellian names like ‘‘in- of three separate but equal branches ing they wanted to dramatically cut surance marketplace stabilization that checked and balanced one an- Medicaid. That is not anything that funds,’’ but make no mistake—what other, the Senate had a unique role. anybody has filibustered about. That is they are really talking about is giving The upper body of article I, of the leg- not anything that people speak about. more money to private health insur- islative branch, was a place where de- When President Trump campaigned, ance companies that have had stock bates were supposed to be long so that he said: I am unique on the forum right prices go through the roof since the you could forge consensus—70, 80, and now of all these candidates in that I passage of ObamaCare. That is the sec- 90 percent consensus—on issues, be- will not cut the Medicaid Program. ond falsehood in the speeches this cause people actually were in this body When the Senate started to consider morning. actually debating real issues. versions of the ObamaCare repeal and A third item on which it is important We are not the greatest deliberative replacement over the summer, after to correct the record—and this is not body in the world right now, and a lot the House acted, what interested me to pick on in particular the two most of people pretend we are. One of the was not the portions of the bill that at- powerful Democrats in the body; those ways we get away with that is by tempted to replace the Affordable Care just happened to be the speeches I lis- standing in here and pretending there Act but the significant changes to the tened to this morning. We have a habit are a lot of people listening to our Medicaid Program that were never ad- around here of people saying a lot of speeches when no one is here. Again, I vertised. There was never this discus- things that aren’t true. You might ask: am the third speech of the day in the sion: We are going to repeal Why can you get away with saying Senate today, and all three of them ObamaCare, and we want to cut Med- things that aren’t true? One of the have had an audience of zero. I submit icaid. It was always about ObamaCare. ways we get away with it is, just as I that most of today on C–SPAN is going I am puzzled, standing here today, am doing at this moment—I am speak- to have an empty Chamber with a little considering a Graham-Cassidy proposal ing to an empty Chamber. The Senator ticker at the bottom that says ‘‘wait- that not only would be a fundamental from Arizona is here. He has the duty ing for Senators to speak.’’ When the change of repeal and replacement of to preside over the Senate right now. Senator comes to speak, they are going the Affordable Care Act but also con- But he is the only person in this Cham- to speak to an empty Chamber, and tains a very significant revision of ber. So everybody at home watching on they are going to pretend they are win- Medicaid that would hurt my State and C–SPAN—I know the camera angle is ning a big debate. It is not a useful way would hurt a lot of people I care about. this wide, and so I am the guy on the to tackle the biggest public policy That never seems to be acknowledged, screen, but this body has 99 empty problems that face our people and not and I am puzzled about why. desks. a great way to restore the Senate. We As to the Graham-Cassidy proposal, One thing that is very common—and should make the Senate great again. again, I respect my colleagues, and I was true of both speeches I listened to Thank you, Mr. President, for the op- think they are putting it on the table this morning—is that there is no one in portunity to correct these three items. because they think it would be pref- the Chamber even though, as the I suggest the absence of a quorum. erable to the current system. I don’t speeches are made, there is a lot of ges- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The question their motives. I was a Gov- turing as I beat down this debate part- clerk will call the roll. ernor, and the notion of block grants ner, and I just one-upped you and I just The legislative clerk proceeded to and discretion and dollars back to the persuaded you. There is a lot of mo- call the roll. State can be a good thing. Quickly, be- tioning and gesturing and fake rhetoric Mr. KAINE. Mr. President, I ask fore I get to the Medicaid piece, the that goes on around here where we try unanimous consent that the order for problem is if you take the Graham-Cas- to masquerade for the American people the quorum call be rescinded. sidy proposal, it takes the dollars that and for the 50, 60, 70 people in the Gal- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without are currently being delivered to the lery right now. I see people chuckling objection, it is so ordered. States through the Affordable Care because they all know that it is true. Mr. KAINE. Mr. President, I rise to Act, shrinks them by about $240 billion They are sitting in a body, and there is speak about the debate this week over over 10 years, and then eliminates no one here. Yet, when people come the Graham-Cassidy proposal with re- them. Even with the shuffling of the and make their speeches on the floor, spect to healthcare that is being con- deck on a block grant that might ben- they pretend they are winning some sidered by the body. I have high regard efit one State over another, you can’t grand debate, and then their commu- for both of these colleagues. I serve take $240 billion out of the system, in nication staff rips apart the video and with each of them on different commit- my view, without making people’s pre- sends it to the local TV stations back tees. I oppose the bill and want to talk miums go up. home, where people get lots of credit, a little bit about why I do but more The money that is being delivered to as if they just won some big debate on specifically about an aspect of the bill States is largely delivered to help peo- the Senate floor. And maybe they said that I find puzzling. ple either get a tax credit premium or a whole bunch of stuff that wasn’t ac- It is no surprise to me that there are pay out-of-pocket costs. If you take tually true, but there was no one here many in this body who would like to that much out of the system over 10 to answer them because we are not ac- repeal and replace the Affordable Care years, people’s premiums are going to tually debating big issues very often in Act. When the Democrats were in the go up. That breaks a promise of Presi- this body. majority for my first 2 years in the dent Trump’s, who said that nobody is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.011 S26SEPT1 S6104 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 going to lose coverage and nobody is tion and no description of any of the $120 billion-plus over 10 years or more going to pay more. People will pay bills that have been pending on the in the out-years would not hand more more, if Graham-Cassidy passes, in the Senate floor say we are going to repeal power to States. No, it would dramati- short term, over the next 10 years. ObamaCare and that we want to go cally limit the States’ ability to pro- Then, when all of the money expires into the Medicaid Act of 1965 and dra- vide the kinds of services that are after 10 years, they will pay a lot more. matically cut Medicaid. needed by our most vulnerable—kids, I oppose that. Why is that never made plain as it is seniors in nursing homes, and people Second, I also oppose the way this a core feature of these bills? I would with disabilities. bill treats preexisting conditions. By argue, it is sort of the core within the Later today, I am going to have a allowing States to waive essential Trojan horse of the repeal of the Af- meeting in my office with folks who health benefits, it might be technically fordable Care Act to go in and change have communicated with me over the true to say that you could get a policy Medicaid. Yet it is never advertised course of this debate—really since Jan- even if you had a preexisting condition, that way, and it is never explained. uary when I was added to the HELP but the insurance company could say You could have put a bill on the table Committee. They are coming in to tell to you: I will write you a policy, but to repeal the Affordable Care Act and me how frightened they are about what you are a diabetic; so the policy will could have left Medicaid alone. You will happen if Graham-Cassidy passes. not cover insulin. Or I will write you a would have touched the Medicaid ex- Samantha and Justin McGovern are policy, but you are a woman of child- pansion that was part of the Affordable parents. They have a girl, Josephine, bearing age; the policy will not cover Care Act, certainly, but you could have who is 11⁄2 years old. They are from maternity care. left the core Medicaid Program alone. Springfield, which is right here in If the policy doesn’t cover your pre- Why was there an effort to both repeal Northern Virginia. Josephine is about existing condition, then preexisting the Affordable Care Act and cut Med- 18 months old, and she was very pre- conditions are not protected. To my icaid but not to say we are cutting mature—24 weeks gestation. She was 1 read of the 141-page bill—which has Medicaid? pound 12 ounces when she was born. been revised a little bit, or so I hear, Maybe it is because, if you were to That is the size of six sticks of butter. since I got the most recent version Fri- say that, you would directly counter a That is how tiny this little girl was. day to read it over the weekend—that promise the President made, ‘‘I am not She was hospitalized, after her pre- is exactly what States can do. Because going to cut Medicaid.’’ Maybe there is mature birth, for 407 days, across three 43 of 50 States did not protect people a concern about, boy, we are taking units, in two hospitals, in two States. with preexisting conditions before the $1.2 billion out of Medicaid, and we are She is home and thriving now, but she Affordable Care Act, handing this about to come up with a big tax pro- is supported by a ventilator 24/7 via a power back to the States and allowing posal that might give tax breaks for tracheostomy, and she is fed primarily them to waive these benefits, I think, the wealthiest. We do not want to take through a gastrointestinal tube. would jeopardize the tens of millions of money away from a program that is for Her mother Samantha writes: Americans who do have preexisting the poor, elderly, disabled, or children We are fortunate that we get to focus on conditions. and then immediately turn right her health rather than medical crippling Finally, I don’t like the fact that the around and increase the deficit by a bills. We estimate that her hospital stay current bill, as I understand it, ends tax cut. would have exceeded $4 million, and the cost funding for Planned Parenthood. I find this to be the big mystery of for her monthly medical expenses (baseline . . . not sick) is about $26,000 a month (if we Planned Parenthood doesn’t have a line this entire debate, in that every pro- didn’t have insurance or Medicaid coverage). item in the budget. To the extent that posal that is on the floor makes mas- Here is what she writes: Planned Parenthood gets funding, it sive cuts to the core Medicaid Program gets funding for this reason: It provides even though it has nothing to do with We are fortunate we have amazing private insurance through our employer. However, if primary medical care to women who the Affordable Care Act. Nobody ever it were legal to have annual or lifetime caps, are Medicaid-eligible, and they get acknowledges it, and nobody ever ex- I don’t know what would happen to us. Part services at Planned Parenthood that plains it, but I am here to both say it of our Medicaid covers private duty nursing are Medicaid-eligible to be reimbursed. is real and to challenge it. so that we can sleep and go to work. Without Since Federal funding cannot be used Who are Medicaid recipients? I think nursing, one of us would have to leave their for abortion services, the defunding of there tends to be a little bit of a mis- job, and there would be no way we could con- Planned Parenthood basically says conception about who gets Medicaid in tinue to live in our house [or pay our insur- that if you serve a woman who chooses this country. ance]. If there are caps and we lost our insur- In Virginia, 50 percent of Medicaid ance, we would depend on Medicaid even to go to you for her primary healthcare more than we do now, and we would have less and she is Medicaid eligible, we will recipients are children. The proposal, coverage than we currently have, making it not pay you for that service. That under Graham-Cassidy, calls for a $1.2 virtually impossible for Josephine to con- seems, to me, to be wrong. If women billion cut in Medicaid in Virginia over tinue to be followed by the doctors who are choosing to go to Planned Parent- the next 10 years and a $120 billion cut saved her life. hood, and they think that is the best in Medicaid nationally. In Virginia, 50 Basically, if [this bill] passes, life as we place to go for primary care, why percent of Medicaid recipients are kids. know it could fall apart. I don’t know how would we disable them and force them One in three births in Virginia—one in we would be able to support our daughter, how we could keep her home and not in an to go elsewhere by disabling Planned three births every year—is com- institution. She deserves to be home. She de- Parenthood from reimbursement? pensated by Medicaid. Two in three serves to have every opportunity to thrive. All right. Those are some challenges nursing home residents are supported I met Rebecca Wood at a forum in I have, but I want to get to the real by Medicaid. There are a lot of people Charlottesville. She has a 5-year-old guts of my concern, which is the effort with disabilities in Virginia who are daughter, Charlie. I met them in July. to go after Medicaid. supported by Medicaid. The home and Charlie’s mom says: The Graham-Cassidy bill—and it is community-based waiver programs, Charlie . . . is five-years-old and loves similar to the skinny repeal bill and under the core Medicaid bill, support playing outdoors, live music, things with other bills that were on the table that nearly 50,000 Virginians in community numbers, and anything with animals. Charlie the Senate considered—goes into the settings of their own choosing. Med- was born more than three months early and, Medicaid Program that was passed in icaid is also the primary payer for be- as a result, is developmentally delayed. Cur- 1965, which was long before the Afford- havioral health services—mental rently, Charlie requires physical therapy able Care Act—long before it—and it health treatment, substance abuse pre- (PT), occupational therapy (OT), and speech puts caps on the program to restrict vention treatment. therapy. She has a . . . (feeding tube) and the growth of Medicaid spending. The That is what this bill goes after even wears orthotics. Affordable care is the difference between independence as an adult or estimate is that over the next 10 years, though that Medicaid funding has a permanent disability. Due to a three it will take $1.2 billion out of Medicaid. nothing to do with ObamaCare, noth- month NICU stay [when she was born], Char- Yet no description of Graham-Cassidy ing to do with the Affordable Care Act. lie would have exceeded her lifetime cap be- that I have ever heard a sponsor men- So reducing Medicaid spending by the fore she ever came home for the first time.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.012 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6105 Then, she would have been uninsurable due in a group home or institutionalize the that will make healthcare better, not to her birth being a preexisting condition. child because there is no family sup- worse. Also, Institutional Medicaid paid for a large port there? We were on the verge of doing that in portion of her NICU stay. Upon discharge, a What my wife could do as a juvenile the HELP Committee. We had 4 hear- Medicaid waiver helps with out of pocket court judge—and this happens all over costs and provides services that [our private] ings with about 20 witnesses. We not insurance doesn’t cover. She would not be Virginia every day and all over the only had committee members involved, where she is without any of these things. The country every day—is say: OK. The but Chairman LAMAR ALEXANDER and changes in the proposed healthcare bill child is capable of success, but the fam- Ranking Member PATTY MURRAY did a would cause Charlie to drastically lose ac- ily is dysfunctional. May I send a coun- good thing—they opened up a coffee be- cess to these services. Receiving healthcare selor to the home? May I find an aunt fore every hearing and said: Hey, if you services is her chance to leave a life-limiting or uncle, and maybe with some support are not on the committee but you want disability behind. of counseling, provide some stability so to meet these witnesses and hear what The last story I will tell is of Eric this child does not have to be institu- they have to say, come and talk and Young, from Norfolk, on behalf of his tionalized and can be successful? When ask them questions. We had over 50 son, Ethan. my wife would order that, it was Med- Senators participate. We were working Eric has major concerns about Gra- icaid that was paying for it. on a bipartisan bill and basically had a ham-Cassidy. His son, Ethan, has what Medicaid pays for your birth, Med- handshake deal last week to stabilize is called heterotaxy syndrome, which is icaid pays for your wheelchair, and the individual insurance market for a an incredibly complex congenital heart Medicaid pays for the services a local couple of years. In a deliberate way, in defect. There are seven defects that are school system will provide so you can a careful way, we considered Repub- combined in this brave and thriving have a life of independence. If your lican and Democratic ideas for improv- youngster. Eric said that Ethan has whole world is falling apart around you ing health insurance. had two open heart surgeries and is and you are doing everything you can Then, last Wednesday, the President having his third in November. to succeed, Medicaid can actually pay tweeted out, in working with the Eric writes: for counseling so you can keep it to- Speaker and the majority leader, that I anticipate his healthcare charges to sur- gether and graduate from high school they did not want the bipartisan effort pass the $1M mark before the end of the and go on and go to college and be suc- year. It’s not an ‘‘if’’ for Ethan—it’s when. to go forward. No. We have to push the ‘‘He’’ will have spent more on healthcare in cessful. Graham-Cassidy bill—the bill that is his first 2 years of life than most people will Medicaid is advancing these chal- about the repeal of ObamaCare but during their entire lives. He’s the outlier. lenged kids toward lives of independ- that also has within the Trojan horse But he’s exactly the type of kid that needs ence and success. Yet the bill that is on these massive cuts to Medicaid that protecting. the floor before us would cut, by the will hurt kids. Dealing with such a critical issue when most recent estimate, $120 billion out I don’t know why we had to set aside your baby is first born is overwhelming— of Medicaid over the next 10 years and the bipartisan effort. I don’t know why having to worry about whether or not your more beyond. Why? Why is that not ac- decisions to save your child will affect we had to submarine the good-faith whether he . . . [can] even obtain health in- knowledged? Why would you use the work of the committee under the lead- surance when he gets to be an adult is just bill to cut Medicaid when all of the ership of a great chair and a great wrong. rhetoric about it is that we have to re- ranking member. It is my hope that at Eric writes about the ACA, as Eric peal the Affordable Care Act? the end of the week, we will have de- works in the healthcare industry: I think the right answer to this ques- feated the Graham-Cassidy bill and The ACA is not perfect—it needs to be tion is just staring us in the face, and that we will go back to being the Sen- changed. I work in healthcare—so I have the it was what we gave Senator MCCAIN a ate we should be. perspective of seeing it from my job and as a standing ovation for in July when he I will just say what I have said a cou- parent. But, we need a real bill that is well came back after getting his tough diag- ple of times on this floor. This is one thought out, not something just for the sake nosis. He came back, and he said: Look, we cannot afford to get wrong. The par- of passing. healthcare is just too important. It is ents of these kids already have enough I wanted to come and really just talk just too important. It is the most im- to worry about. Why would we make it about these youngsters. One out of portant expenditure anybody ever harder on them? We do not have to. We every three children born in Virginia is makes. It is the biggest sector of the can be better than that. That is what I able to be born in a hospital because of American economy. It is the kind of ask we do. Medicaid, and 50 percent of Medicaid thing that keeps parents up at night, I yield the floor. recipients are kids. If you were a child worrying about what is going to hap- I suggest the absence of a quorum. and you needed a wheelchair, your pri- pen to their children tomorrow or in 20 The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. vate insurance likely would not cover years, when the parents are deceased, CRUZ). The clerk will call the roll. it. If you get a wheelchair, it is usually and they want to know the children The bill clerk proceeded to call the Medicaid that pays for it. If you go to can have independent lives. roll. school and then you get an individual- We just cannot afford to get this Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, I ask ized education plan and your public wrong, and the answer about getting it unanimous consent that the order for school system provides you some serv- right is staring us right in the face. Let the quorum call be rescinded. ices, it is Medicaid that is usually pay- the HELP Committee, on which I The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ing the school system to reimburse it serve—the Health, Education, Labor, objection, it is so ordered. for the services that are provided. and Pensions Committee—and let the Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, the My wife used to be a juvenile court Finance Committee, which has juris- Democrats talked this morning about judge, and this was the situation she diction over Medicaid and Medicare, the Affordable Care Act and what the would face all the time with kids in the take up everybody’s ideas: the Graham- reform efforts are trying to do and court. It would be a heartbreaking sit- Cassidy bill and BERNIE SANDERS’ bill. I what they are not trying to do. I want uation, but there was an answer. You have a bill about reinsurance, but it is to associate myself with the comments would have teenagers who were work- so wonky it is never going to be on a made by my colleague, the Senator ing so hard to be successful—not in bumper sticker. I think it would be a from Nebraska, earlier today. court because of violating the law, not good bill, but I have not been able to A lot of talk has been thrown around in court because of trouble but in court have a hearing on it. about how the new effort would cut because their families were so dysfunc- Let the committees that are of a Re- Medicaid spending. As my colleague tional nobody could take care of them. publican majority but with Democrats from Nebraska mentioned, here in As a judge, my wife would have to who know some things about Washington a cut is not a cut anywhere grapple with this: Where is this child healthcare take up these bills, hear else. But if you deal with the rate of going to live? Who is going to help this from the parents, hear from the hos- growth, if you raise spending only by child get to school? This kid is trying pitals, hear from the doctors, and come the Consumer Price Index rather than to succeed. Do I have to put the child up with a bipartisan set of solutions the medical Consumer Price Index—5

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.014 S26SEPT1 S6106 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 percent rather than 6 percent, for ex- pay if he has any medical issues—be- clauses have become almost unavoid- ample—then you are somehow cutting tween premiums and deductibles, more able in everyday life. the program. than $40,000 before the first insurance Whether it is a credit card or a bank We know that the program as it cur- dollar kicks in. account, whether it is a student loan or rently stands is unsustainable. I think So when we hear from the other side a college enrollment, whether it is a we all recognize that. So any efforts to of the aisle that there is no problem nursing home contract, your phone deal with and to allow Governors and with ObamaCare, that the only thing service, or even—now far too often— others at the local level to have more we have to worry about is, for some your job, you have probably signed a of a say on how these funds are spent people who have gained insurance, to contract that forced you to give up and to gain efficiencies that way are make sure they keep that—I agree we your right to a day in court, usually, frowned upon. It is said that we simply have to make sure those with pre- without even realizing it. can’t do that because it would be cut- existing conditions have access to af- Forced arbitration is a tool that big ting Medicaid. That simply isn’t the fordable care. But when you have peo- corporations use to silence victims of case. ple on the exchange who simply can’t corporate fraud and corporate abuse. Arizona, for example, has a version of find affordable care and if they do have These victims never get to tell their Medicaid called AHCCCS. It is done far a policy they can’t afford to use it be- stories to a judge or a jury of their more efficiently than some of the other cause deductibles and copays are so peers. Why? Because of the small print States do it. That is because at the high, we have a problem. in these contracts. Victims are pushed local level they have been able to do The latest figures tell us that 155,000 into a secret process behind closed what local governments do best. The Arizonans woke up this morning with- doors, where corporations win about 90 government that is closer to the people out any insurance. Most of them had percent of the time. generally spends money more wisely insurance prior to the Affordable Care Over the past couple of weeks, I have and finds efficiencies that the Federal Act, but then insurance was priced out had an opportunity to hear from some Government simply can’t find. of their reach. So 155,000 people are of these victims. Let me tell you about Let me mention that on the ex- paying a fine to the Federal Govern- George from Mentor, OH. George’s wife change, the Affordable Care Act dealt ment because of their inability to find suffered physical and mental abuse in a with a couple of different things. It is affordable insurance. They pay that nursing home, but George and his wife a so-called exchange where people who fine, and they still have no insurance. have been denied a day in court. He can’t get insurance otherwise or don’t Tell me that is not something we have said the lawyers he reached out to for get it through their employers will buy to fix. We have to fix that. That is help turned him away because they it on either a Federal exchange or a what we are responding to here. didn’t think he had a chance fighting State exchange. Then you have the This notion that it is all hunky- against the forced arbitration clause in Medicaid side. Let me speak for a dory—keep with the plan—belies the his family’s nursing home admittance minute on the exchange side. fact that 155,000 Arizonans woke up agreement. Arizona has been ground zero for the this morning and said: We are paying a Any family who has been through the failure of the ObamaCare exchange. We fine to the Federal Government be- transition of admitting a loved one have 15 counties in Arizona. In all 15 cause we can’t find affordable care, and into a nursing home will tell you it is counties, if you are a family of four still we have no care, and we are some- a difficult time in the best of cir- and you are buying on the exchange, how supposed to be OK with that. cumstances. Forcing these families to you are paying more on average for Somehow we are supposed to wait until sign away their rights is not only your healthcare premiums than you we can find a solution for it all before wrong. It is dangerous. Typically, be- are for your mortgage. Think about we address that specific situation. cause of all the trauma of moving a that for a minute. You are paying more I submit that we have to fix this. family member into a nursing home, for your healthcare premiums than you People in Arizona and elsewhere are you are not even aware that you have are for your mortgage in every county hurting. Let’s stop with the rhetoric signed away your rights. in Arizona. In some counties in Arizona that this is somehow a cut and people After the Equifax breach, my office you are paying double. In every county will be left on the streets. We heard was flooded with calls from scared con- it is more, in some counties signifi- that back in 1996 with welfare reform. sumers seeking help. Let me tell you cantly more, and in a couple of coun- It was said that the Governors or oth- about another one. Bill is from Ham- ties you are paying double for your ers at the local level couldn’t partici- ilton, OH, which is at the other end of healthcare premiums—much more than pate, couldn’t be in charge of this pro- the State from Mentor. He and his wife what you are paying for your mort- gram because people would be dying on are retired, and they worked hard to gage. the streets. Guess what. Within a cou- pay their bills on time. He has had ex- I spoke yesterday with an elected of- ple of years, the welfare rolls had been cellent credit, and this is the story of ficial from Arizona from one of the cut in half. We are doing better, and millions of Americans. That was all rural counties. He told me that his the Federal Government’s obligation in put at risk when Equifax allowed his healthcare premium, which he simply that regard has been sustainable, un- family’s personal information to be can’t afford anymore for his family of like the current situation we have with stolen, along with that of 143 million four children, would have been $2,800 a the so-called Affordable Care Act. other Americans. It is pretty much half month. That is what it has gone up to. I hope we can stop the outrageous of the country. It has doubled virtually every year. In rhetoric on this and actually fix the This breach was so huge and harmed some counties in Arizona, we saw in- problem. Let’s fix the problem for Ari- so many people that the company’s creases of 116 percent. He owned insur- zonans who are hurting right now. CEO, Richard Smith, retired suddenly ance prior to ObamaCare, was paying a With that, I yield back. today. Well, he will probably have a reasonable amount for a premium, and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- very comfortable retirement. His com- had copays and deductibles that were ator from Ohio. pensation was millions of dollars a reasonable as well. But when the Af- CFPB RULE year. The millions of people he has fordable Care Act came in, the promise Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, we have harmed will continue to struggle with that you could keep your doctor or the recent fake accounts scandal at the mess that he left behind. keep your plan simply wasn’t the case. Wells Fargo and the massive data That is bad enough, but Equifax was His premiums have gone up, up, and up breach at Equifax. I don’t think any of also demanding that Bill in Hamilton, until now; he has a premium of $2,800 us can go home and not hear, certainly, OH, give up his right to hold the com- monthly for his family of four children. about the Equifax scandal that we pany accountable in court if Bill signed Keep in mind, as well, that there are found out about just a couple of weeks up for their credit monitoring service. the deductibles on top of that. Were he ago. The massive data breach at Do you remember, after the story to use that insurance, by the time he Equifax and the fake accounts scandal broke—I believe it was in July when satisfies the family deductible, which at Wells Fargo drive home the fact the executives found out about the 143 is about $12,000, he has paid—or he will that so-called forced arbitration million Americans breached, or the 140-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.015 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6107 plus million Americans breached—that continuing to hide behind arbitration country and over their families and a couple of executives sold some of following scandal after scandal. You over hard-working people all across their stock. That is interesting. We will remember what Warren Buffet, America? will see what happens about that. Then who is a major stockholder in Wells It is our job to protect the people we it became public in September. So we Fargo, said: You rarely find just one serve, not to protect Wall Street banks know that. cockroach in the kitchen. Well, with and corporations when they try to Now, we also know that Equifax, Wells Fargo, there was one case after scam consumers. Big companies use then, to make it up to their customers, they said: This is it. Then, there was small print to silence the hard-working said that they would give them a free another, and they said: Well, this is it. Americans they have cheated. year of credit monitoring. A year ago, Then, there was another one. We don’t When a resolution to repeal the Con- I believe it was, when there was an- know what is next. sumer Financial Protection Bureau’s other situation like that of a data We know that many of the victims of rule comes to this floor, I urge my col- breech, Congress voted to protect Fed- Wells Fargo’s scandal were service- leagues to speak up for the people eral employees and to give them free members. In 2015, Santander Bank ille- whom we serve. credit monitoring for 10 years. But gally repossessed cars from service- I suggest the absence of a quorum. Equifax, generously—I believe some members and, then, used a forced arbi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The used that word, but they probably tration clause to silence their claims. clerk will call the roll. didn’t—gave the 1 year, but they had a So they are willing to go against serv- The bill clerk proceeded to call the forced arbitration clause. It was only icemembers, in the case of Santander. roll. because of a staff person on the Bank- Wells Fargo is willing to do it against Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask ing, Housing, and Urban Affairs Com- servicemembers. Wells Fargo is willing unanimous consent that the order for mittee, that CORY saw that they had to do it against up to 3.5 million cus- the quorum call be rescinded. that provision in these contracts—this tomers for whom they opened fake ac- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without free year of credit monitoring—and counts. objection, it is so ordered. Equifax decided to back off of that. Servicemembers and all Americans HURRICANE HARVEY RECOVERY These forced arbitration clauses are deserve to be protected from this shady Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I am incredibly powerful. To understand legal fine print. That is what the Con- particularly glad to see you presiding them better, big companies use the sumer Financial Protection Bureau has today because I came here to report on small print not just against regular done with its new rule on the issue of what you and I saw together in Texas families back in Ohio but even against forced arbitration—a rule that some in during this last long weekend. Unfortu- people who could afford top-notch legal this body want to overturn. nately, it didn’t feel quite like home— teams. It is despicable that Congress is try- not when parts of Texas battered by Gretchen Carlson, a well-known news ing to cover for big corporations look- Hurricane Harvey aren’t what they anchor, endured sexual harassment at ing to cheat consumers and overturn used to be and not when so many cit- FOX but was prevented from suing her this rule. Make no mistake. Voting to ies, towns, and wornout faces don’t employer by a forced arbitration overturn the CFPB rule about forced look like they otherwise would. clause. She didn’t really know that or arbitration is simply saying that we As of this weekend, more than 8 mil- hadn’t thought much about that when support corporations’ ability and ef- lion cubic yards of debris still needed she signed her contract. She wrote of forts to cheat their consumers. They to be cleared in Houston alone—the forced arbitration: It is ‘‘often argued simply don’t have their day in court. Presiding Officer’s hometown and the to be a quicker and cheaper method of The American Legion adopted a reso- city of my birth. More than 800,000 peo- dispute resolution for employees’’ but, lution at its national conference last ple have registered with FEMA for in- ‘‘instead [it] has silenced millions of month opposing repeal of the Consumer dividual assistance. More than 24,000 women who otherwise may have come Financial Protection Bureau’s rule. hotel rooms are still occupied by vic- forward.’’ They understand that the Consumer tims of the flood. Fifty-two public and The power of forced arbitration Financial Protection Bureau did the charter schools sustained ‘‘cata- clauses to silence victims has allowed right thing to protect servicemembers strophic damage’’ and are awaiting potentially millions of people to be from forced arbitration. funding for repairs. Worst of all, 82 harmed by big banks and other finan- John Kamin, assistant director of the lives were lost as a result of this ter- cial institutions. American Legion’s veterans employ- rible storm. Let’s take another one, Wells Fargo. ment and education division, said: One news story that stuck with me In 2013, Wells Fargo used a forced arbi- ‘‘Our membership has stated unequivo- came from Port Arthur, where the tration clause to silence a customer cally that we will not accept a future mayor, Mr. Derrick Ford Freeman, a who had accused the company of open- where our military veterans’ financial man of truly steel resolve, can’t stop ing fake accounts in his name. You will protections are chipped away to in- yawning. Well, he is exhausted. He has remember that Wells Fargo opened as crease the margins of the financial sec- a good reason. He has been sleeping up- many as 3.5 million fake accounts, tor.’’ stairs in his child’s second floor meaning they opened an account that Let me say that again: ‘‘We will not bunkbed because, unlike some other the Senator from Texas or that I or accept a future’’—this is from the residents, he hasn’t had time to strip others had not given permission to do American Legion—‘‘where our military the first floors of his house that flood- so. They opened accounts in people’s veterans’ financial protections are ed to remove the Sheetrock, destroyed names. Obviously, I am not saying that chipped away to increase the margins furniture, and all of his personal ef- personally of the Senator from Texas of the financial sector.’’ fects. He has been too busy worrying and me, but they opened 3 million fake The right to have your day in court about others and trying to help pull accounts of customers who didn’t even is enshrined in the Constitution that the pieces back together. know these accounts had been opened. our servicemembers fight to uphold. Mayor Freeman spoke of the smell in They subjected their employees to The least we can do is to protect this his house at night. First, it is the harsh sales goals. They threatened to right for the women and the men who flood. Then, it is the mold. Then, it is fire anyone who didn’t keep up. protect our country—to protect this the mosquitoes. He spoke about the Think about how much damage could right for the men and the women who challenges his community faces, and he have been prevented if that customer protect our country. spoke about the more than 100 school- was allowed to take Wells Fargo to How can Members of this body, when teachers and 100 city employees in Port open court 4 years ago, but they this vote approaches, if they support Arthur who still did not have homes couldn’t because of forced arbitration. the CRA to overturn the rule of the ready to return to. Well, Equifax pulled back its use of CFPB, look those servicemen and serv- What Mayor Freeman was most wor- forced arbitration clauses after the icewomen in the eyes and explain that ried about, though, is that people will public shaming of what they did, but they chose to stand with Wall Street forget. Now, as other natural disasters Wells Fargo seems to have no shame in over these people who served their and news stories begin to occupy the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.016 S26SEPT1 S6108 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 coverage on television and turn peo- they are wondering if we remember the bott in the months to come. It will be ple’s gaze away from Texas, to Florida sheer scale of the disaster zone—an months, if not years, before the recov- and now to the devastation in Puerto area larger than West Virginia, Dela- ery will be complete. Rico, the mayor’s concern makes some ware, and Rhode Island combined. We One additional way we can help vic- sense. want to assure them that the answer is tims is through targeted tax relief. I But I want to assure Mayor Free- yes. want to highlight in this regard a non- man—as I know the Presiding Officer We have been working hard trying to controversial section of the Federal would, and as we would to our friends match the scale of the storm with an Aviation Administration reauthoriza- in Florida and the east coast, who were appropriate congressional response. tion bill that House Democrats blocked hit by Hurricane Irma, or our friends in Here are just a few of the ways in yesterday. It contained a number of Puerto Rico, who were devastated by which the Federal Government has re- disaster tax provisions, like those that Hurricane Maria—that we will not for- sponded: were passed after Hurricane Katrina, get and that we will stand together to First, the President—and we thank that will help hurricane victims get make sure that the Federal Govern- him for his leadership and initiative— back on their feet. It is unconscionable ment plays its essential role in helping issued a major disaster declaration that the House minority leader held them recover and in helping them re- under the Stafford Act, which is the that relief hostage to cater to the most store their lives. trigger for the Federal Emergency extreme elements of her own political But I also remember another civic Management Agency’s, or FEMA’s, party. If we were talking about earth- leader, Mayor Becky Ames of Beau- public assistance grants to be provided. quake victims in San Francisco instead mont, and what she said to me right This is, to be clear, not a handout. of hurricane relief in Texas, Florida, after the storm. Smiling, she declared: Each State is responsible for part of and Puerto Rico, surely she wouldn’t We had a downpour; now we have an out- the cost. Secondly, the U.S. Army be playing politics like she is now with pour. The outpour is coming right into our Corps of Engineers conducted infra- this important hurricane relief pack- city. structure assessments and assisted age. That is what we saw time and again. with State debris management. Third, Spearheaded by Chairman KEVIN Yes, the Federal Government re- FEMA has coordinated with the Amer- BRADY, the legislation would have sponded. Yes, the State responded, led ican Red Cross and other local govern- helped victims keep more of their pay- by Governor Abbott and emergency op- ments to find and provide temporary check, deduct more of the cost of their erations. Yes, the mayors and the housing for the displaced. property damage, and have more im- county judges responded. But the truth As I said, these are just a few of the mediate access to their retirement sav- is neighbors helped neighbors. We ways the administration has been re- ings without penalty. It would also talked again. I sort of chuckle when I sponding. I realize they are just on the have encouraged even more Americans think about the Cajun Navy, but our first step. That is why last week I led to generously donate to hurricane re- friends from around the country, in- a bipartisan letter, along with my col- lief. cluding next door in Louisiana, came league in the Chair, calling upon the It is imperative the House act a sec- to help pluck people off the tops of Department of Housing and Urban De- ond time later this week to overcome their flooded houses and places of busi- velopment to speed up allocation of re- the objection of Ms. PELOSI, to make ness, and of course many people have lief funds. We were able to appropriate, sure hurricane tax relief is delivered to those in need on a timely basis and lent a helping hand. and the President signed into law, a I think it is best to combine Mayor $7.4 billion allocation for community without further delay. Shame on those Freeman’s concerns with Mayor development block grants, or CDBG who would play politics with the sort Ames’s optimism. In other words, we funds, that Congress has decided are of relief the President and we have all need to make sure that outpour she appropriate as a downpayment on the committed would be forthcoming in re- was speaking about continues. I know recovery from Hurricane Harvey. These sponse to these terrible hurricanes, the outpour hasn’t dried up places like CDBG funds, community development whether it is Harvey, Irma, or Maria. The fact remains that Federal, State, Friendswood, TX, where the Presiding block grant funds, will help Texas com- and local actors will have to continue Officer and I helped Team Rubicon munities repair their infrastructure, to work side by side to make sure clean up some of the houses that were rebuild schools, and reopen the businesses that are integral to recovery. I Texas is made whole again. trashed by Hurricane Harvey. We Colleagues, let’s keep Mayor Ames might add, given Texas’s contribution joined the Speaker of the House, PAUL and Mayor Freeman in mind. Let’s re- to the national economy, it is really RYAN—and we are delighted he saw fit member that those still recovering in important not just to folks in Texas, to come join us in this effort—as well their communities and elsewhere need this is important to the country that as the chairman of the House Appro- and deserve our support. Let’s make we get our businesses back on their priations Committee and virtually the sure Texas resembles the home we all own two feet, opening doors, and help- entire Houston congressional delega- have come to know and love following ing contribute to the economy while tion. this terribly devastating hurricane. We also know the outpour has not they continue to create jobs. Mr. President, I yield the floor. stopped in places like Aloe Elementary I am grateful to my colleagues for in Victoria, a school that was severely moving with such dispatch in appro- f damaged by the storm. There I saw sec- priating the funds. I know Congress’s RECESS ond graders get packages from their quick action can quickly be undone by The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under counterparts in West Lafayette, LA. delays at the bureaucracy level. We the previous order, the Senate stands The school may have temporary walls. need to make sure that doesn’t happen. in recess until 2:15 p.m. Certain classrooms and hallways had On the State level, Governor Abbott Thereupon, the Senate, at 12:37 p.m., to be cordoned off as the building con- has announced the Commission to Re- recessed until 2:15 p.m. and reassem- tinues, but these ‘‘Aloe-gators’’—the build Texas, which will be led ably by bled when called to order by the Pre- school mascot—are permanently grate- Texas A&M System Chancellor John siding Officer (Mr. PORTMAN). ful for the help they are getting from Sharp. I met with Chancellor Sharp f children from Lafayette, LA, and Cum- last week in Texas, and he assured me berland Elementary in Indiana. the commission will be traveling NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- I think we owe it to these young- around the State and working to TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR sters—and the many other Texans we prioritize projects to help restore 2018—MOTION TO PROCEED—Con- met with in Victoria, Friendswood, and roads, bridges, schools, government tinued Houston—to explain what we here in buildings, and impacted communities. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Washington are doing to address the The Texas delegation will be working ator from Rhode Island. storm, which, let’s not forget, rained with him as we focus on our response. HEALTHCARE down more water—34 trillion gallons— I know we all look forward to working Mr. REED. Mr. President, I wish to than any storm in U.S. history. I think with the commission and Governor Ab- talk about the latest attempt from my

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.017 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6109 colleagues on the other side of the aisle questration, and to ensure a stable I urge my colleagues to really think to upend our health care system. They Federal budget to improve our econ- about who would be impacted by this have been trying to sell this as a new omy. legislation. Whether or not you like and better health care bill, but in fact In fact, after the efforts to pass ObamaCare or voted for it 7 years ago, they somehow have managed to come TrumpCare failed just 2 months ago, this latest TrumpCare bill is not the up with something even worse than the Republicans and Democrats on the solution. previous TrumpCare bills. It would re- Senate Health, Education, Labor, and I will continue to oppose these efforts peal the Affordable Care Act, gutting Pensions Committee joined together in and hope to work with my colleagues key protections for people with pre- a bipartisan fashion to come up with a to improve our health care system and existing conditions and ending Med- bill that would improve our healthcare lower costs for everybody. icaid as we know it. system and lower costs for everyone. I yield the floor. I want to recognize some of my col- Significant progress on this effort has The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- leagues, however, on the other side of been made. ator from Vermont. the aisle who already stood up to this However, by resurrecting this PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS effort, because no matter how many TrumpCare debate, we are again on the RECOVERY EFFORT changes have been made to gain the brink of voting on whether to kick mil- Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, it was 6 support of Senators, this bill would be lions of Americans off of their health years ago that Tropical Storm Irene devastating to every State, including insurance. With this effort, Repub- tore through my home State of my home State of Rhode Island. licans are taking our health care sys- Vermont, and I remember it like it was Senate Republicans are trying to tem hostage again, as deadlines ap- yesterday. I remember going around hide the impact of the bill, potentially proach this week for finalizing insur- the State the next day in a helicopter forcing a vote before the nonpartisan ance rates for the next year. Health in- with the head of our National Guard Congressional Budget Office is even surance commissioners and other ex- and reviewing the damage. We are still able to publish a full score and analysis perts have already said that the insta- trying to recover. of the bill, including estimates for how bility in Washington has caused rates In the days after the storm, I came to many people would lose coverage and to increase. Yet my colleagues on the this Chamber, and I asked for the sup- how healthcare costs would be affected. other side of the aisle continue down port that Vermont needed to recover Late yesterday, we received a pre- this destructive path. and rebuild. I remember with gratitude What is especially egregious is that liminary estimate from CBO saying that Republicans and Democrats alike in addition to the jettisoned ACA sta- that, similar to previous TrumpCare in the Senate, from across the country, bilization efforts, we also need to ex- bills, this proposal would leave mil- stood with the people of Vermont. I re- tend funding for other critical bipar- lions more Americans without health member how much the calls of support tisan health care priorities, such as the insurance because of massive cuts to from Republican and Democratic col- Children’s Health Insurance Program Medicaid. We will not see a more de- leagues meant to me. and the community health centers, tailed score for weeks. Yet the major- Today, we have to do the same for whose Federal funding expires in just a ity is attempting to rush this through the people of Puerto Rico and the U.S. couple of days. In fact, the Chairman Virgin Islands. More than 31⁄2 million in order to use budget rules that expire and Ranking Member of the Senate Fi- Americans—remember, these are on Saturday that enable passage of this nance Committee had come to a bipar- Americans—have seen their homes and bill with just 51 votes. tisan agreement to extend funding for Fortunately, a number of non- communities destroyed by the double CHIP for 5 years, providing stability partisan organizations are publishing blow of Hurricanes Irma and Maria. and assurances for States and families data on the latest bill, and they all The destruction is catastrophic. The across the country. However, that work details are still coming in. agree that this bill would have a simi- is now on hold, just like the critical The vast majority of Puerto Rico is lar impact as the previous TrumpCare ACA stabilization effort. bills. Tens of millions of Americans We must continue to make our voices without power and remains in the would lose coverage, State budgets heard and show the majority that this dark. At least 44 percent—almost half would be decimated, and costs would is not what the American people want. of its people—are without potable increase—especially for those with pre- They want us to work together to water, and some estimates put it even existing conditions, who would be strengthen health care, increase ac- higher. The vast majority of hospitals priced out of the market entirely. Ac- cess, and keep costs down. The enor- in Puerto Rico are without power. The cording to one of these organizations, mous outpouring of citizen opposition food supply is dwindling. Cell phone Avalere, Rhode Island is slated to lose and health care experts criticizing sites are down, crippling communica- $3 billion by 2027, and the cuts only get TrumpCare over the summer was a tion on the island. People can’t find worse from there. Medicaid would be very powerful statement about what out what has happened to their fami- cut drastically, meaning our most vul- the American people—my constituents lies. We are on the verge of a humani- nerable citizens would lose access to and people across the country—believe tarian crisis right here on U.S. soil. health care, including children, people should be the path forward on health President Trump, leaders of FEMA, with disabilities, and seniors. care. the Department of Homeland Security, Over 60 percent of nursing home resi- As my colleagues work to make last- and the Department of Defense have all dents in Rhode Island access care minute changes to the bill and conceal got to act quickly. We have to put the through Medicaid, and half of Medicaid the real impacts by refusing to hold full force of the United States behind spending is on these long-term care substantive hearings and rushing new these efforts, as we would in any State services. versions of the bill to the floor with lit- where this might happen. It would become impossible to pro- tle or no warning, my constituents are Earlier this month, Congress ap- tect these programs from the cuts pro- not fooled. They continue to write to proved $15 billion in emergency funding jected under this bill. In fact, States me, urging me to keep up the opposi- for disaster relief following Hurricanes would be forced to cut not only health tion to TrumpCare. Harvey and Irma. As vice chairman of care but also education and infrastruc- Just a week or two ago, I heard from the Appropriations Committee, I was ture and other priorities to make up or Barbara in Middletown, RI. Her mother happy to support that. These resources try to make up—and I think ‘‘try to has Alzheimer’s diseases and relies on should be put to work in Puerto Rico make up’’ are better words to use—the Medicaid for long-term care. Her sister and the U.S. Virgin Islands as well. But difference. This would be nothing short has Down syndrome and has recently it is not going to last for long. This of a crisis in every State in this coun- been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s dis- money will run out within a couple of try. ease as well. She also relies on Med- weeks. We have to sustain our commit- We have already spent so much time icaid for her health care. This new pro- ments to rebuilding and recovering this year having this fight—time we posal, just like the previous proposals, from all of these hurricanes for the could have spent working across the would be devastating to Barbara and long haul—not just in the continental aisle to improve health care, to end se- her family. United States but in all parts of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.019 S26SEPT1 S6110 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 United States, which include Puerto When those amendments failed, the Re- duct such expansive and impactful Rico and the Virgin Islands. publican leadership attempted to fully policies. This is not the Senate that I I would ask the administration to repeal the Affordable Care Act. That know and respect. prepare an emergency aid request as did not work either. Yesterday, the Senate Finance Com- soon as possible. The Appropriations Instead of learning from that painful mittee held the only hearing in the Committee is ready to move on it, but process, the Republican leadership Senate on TrumpCare. We heard how the Congress—the House and Senate— emerged from the August recess with a devastating this bill would be for mil- should act very quickly. We have to new plan. Released just last week and lions of Americans who depend on sub- stand by each other in times of dis- revised several times since, the pro- sidies to purchase health insurance. We aster. When there is a storm, one of us posal of Senators GRAHAM, CASSIDY, heard how reduced funding would force braces for it, and the others have to HELLER, and JOHNSON was intended to States to choose what services to cover help pick up the pieces. That is who we revive the healthcare reconciliation for children, pregnant women, and are. That is why we act. That is why bill the Senate already defeated. Unfor- those with disabilities who depend on we are Americans. We are the United tunately, their bill contains all of the Medicaid. Benefits like maternity cov- States of America—all of us. Now we problems of previous versions and in- erage or homecare will be at risk as must make sure that we respond not cludes new, troubling provisions that States choose to relax the insurance just in Texas, as we should, not just in would fundamentally change requirements under the ACA. Remark- Florida, as we should, but in Puerto healthcare in this country for the ably, experts disagreed with the au- Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. They worse. thors as to what this amendment are part of our country. This Graham-Cassidy-Heller-Johnson would mean for those with preexisting HEALTHCARE bill—just the latest version of conditions. Mr. President, the Senate finds itself TrumpCare—would make dangerous One thing the hearing made abun- today in a familiar situation: Deeply changes to our healthcare system re- dantly clear is that this sweeping pol- partisan efforts to repeal and replace sulting in millions of Americans losing icy needs further examination. The the landmark Affordable Care Act have health insurance coverage, including Congressional Budget Office says it hit a wall. By their own admission, the Vermonters. In fact, based on previous needs at least a couple of weeks to Senate majority has, with their backs estimates, a provision in this bill fully examine this proposal. How many against a wall and a looming deadline would cause 15 million Americans to will lose insurance? How much will pre- to advance legislation by a simple ma- lose insurance and premiums to in- miums increase? How many will lose jority vote, put forward one last-gasp crease by an average of 20 percent on access to health care? These are funda- effort to roll back access to healthcare day 1. mental questions to which we do not for millions of Americans—not because This hasty proposal would allow in- and will not have answers before the it is sound policy, but in an effort to surance companies to charge seniors, majority’s arbitrary timeline is up. meet a campaign promise, regardless of those with disabilities, those with pre- The preliminary estimate released late its harm to millions of Americans. It is existing conditions, and women more Monday by the CBO says that ‘‘mil- as irresponsible as it is dangerous. for coverage. These are all discrimina- lions’’ of Americans would be unin- These efforts put lives at risk. This tory policies that the Affordable Care sured as a result of the Graham-Cas- zombie project should be abandoned, Act changed. sidy-Heller-Johnson proposal. What is and we should get back to the con- Like previous versions of TrumpCare, more, I have not heard from a single structive and promising bipartisan this bill would end Medicaid as we health-related group that supports this work toward strengthening troubled know it by capping spending in the pro- measure. insurance markets. gram and forcing States to cut eligi- So why does the majority insist on Instead of working on a responsible bility, benefits, or both. What is worse, pushing forward? It seems they are so budget, or disaster relief for Puerto this new version of the bill would fully intent on voting on anything that they Rico, Florida, and Texas, or on any of repeal the tax credits and subsidies cre- would have us consider an unexamined, the many pressing issues facing our ated under the ACA and instead give hastily cobbled together bill solely to country, we began this week in a situa- States inadequately funded block repeal the ACA—for the express pur- tion virtually identical to where we grants with no requirement that the poses of fulfilling a crassly partisan were in July. In fact, it reflects the funding goes to those in need. campaign promise. This would be noth- state of the Senate for much of this States like Vermont have done the ing more than legislative malpractice. year, where policymaking has been re- right thing. Because of Vermont’s Med- Their desire to undo any of the success placed by partisanship and politics. icaid expansion, thousands of of the Obama administration, at any When we considered a healthcare rec- Vermonters now have access to life- cost, would have them push forward a onciliation bill in July, in spite of mul- saving health insurance and care. That proposal that would devastate our tiple drafts and a go-it-alone, is never been more critical than now as health insurance markets, cause mil- hyperpartisan philosophy, the majority we continue to grapple with the opioid lions to lose insurance, and fundamen- leader was still unable to garner crisis. tally change the Medicaid Program, enough support within his own Caucus This latest Republican proposal and the best reason the Republicans to pass a sweeping healthcare bill. I would hurt States like Vermont, sim- can come up with for supporting this joined with many Democrats to offer ply for doing the right thing and ex- new attempt is ‘‘because we said we motions to get the Senate back to reg- panding coverage. In the latest version would.’’ ular order and have the appropriate of the Graham-Cassidy-Heller-Johnson In Vermont, the effects of TrumpCare committees study the effects of these proposal, there seems to be no consist- would be disastrous. Since the passage policies on Medicaid beneficiaries and ency to how block grant funds are of the Affordable Care Act, Vermont those with disabilities, on women and divvied between States, leaving some has made exceptional progress to cut children, on seniors, and the most vul- to conclude the formula is merely a the rate of uninsured Vermonters by nerable, but Republicans voted down ham-fisted attempt to appease some re- half. The number of uninsured those efforts and plowed ahead, seem- luctant Republican Senators to support Vermonters is now below 4 percent. Be- ingly unaware or willingly blind to the this measure. By 2027, all States lose cause of the Medicaid Program and the real-life impacts of what they were try- under this proposal as the block grant Children’s Health Insurance Program, ing to do. During July’s debate, the funding created under this proposal known as Dr. Dynasaur in Vermont, 99 Senate also considered multiple runs out. You cannot consider legisla- percent of children have health insur- amendments to rewrite the Affordable tion of this magnitude, with such far- ance in our State. TrumpCare, in any Care Act. Each of these amendments reaching truly life-and-death con- version, places Vermont’s progress at would have caused tens of millions of sequences, with no debate and no risk. Americans to lose insurance and would meaningful consideration. This is not Vermont has also worked on new and have made it harder for those with pre- the way the Senate, the greatest delib- innovative ways of delivering existing conditions to obtain coverage. erative body in the world, should con- healthcare, which has brought down

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.020 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6111 costs and increased coordination of Cassidy-Heller-Johnson proposal. They get to 50 votes, rather than actually care. One of the most significant ways waited in line for hours, and they were improving our health insurance sys- Vermont has done this is through ex- not granted access to the hearing, held tem. isting flexibility in Medicaid. It is in a smaller room despite the known Was the Affordable Care Act abso- through the Medicaid Program that public interest in this hearing. lutely perfect when it was passed? No, Vermont has offered comprehensive Waiting in line for a hearing he was and we acknowledged the need for con- treatment and counseling services for not allowed to attend, Drew from tinual improvement as the ACA would those suffering with opioid addition. In Readesboro said: be implemented, but unlike with other Vermont, 68 percent of those receiving ‘‘[T]his is my second time down here. I’m important social programs that have medication assisted treatment for here to finally kill this bill as it will result been created over the years—such as opioid addiction are Medicaid recipi- in the deaths of millions of Americans and Social Security and Medicare—Repub- ents. If hundreds of billions of dollars significant loses to Vermont’s funding.’’ licans have not allowed us the oppor- are cut from the Medicaid Program, Todd from Bennington said: tunity to improve, strengthen and per- States will be forced to limit coverage, The reason I oppose the bill is being I’m a fect it over time. Those programs were jeopardizing Vermont’s ability to over- walking pre-existing condition. Diabetes, also not perfect, but instead of playing come this crisis. Provisions that cap high blood pressure. It’s getting under con- partisan games, Republicans and Medicaid spending do not create ‘‘flexi- trol, but it wouldn’t without healthcare. Democrats came together to get some- bility’’ in Medicaid. This policy would Mari from Lincoln said: thing done, time and time again. We instead force States to ration care. I’m here because I have to. Like Marcelle did not vote to repeal the Social Secu- Let’s talk about what that means to [Leahy], I’ve been a nurse for almost 30 years rity Act. No, we came together, and we Vermonters. This week I heard from and if it weren’t for the Affordable Care Act discussed what needed to be done to many of the patients that I’m caring for now Deborah in Waterbury, VT, who wrote in the inpatient cardiology unit at the Uni- better help the American people, not to me urging me to vote to protect versity of Vermont Medical Center would ei- unravel their safety net. Medicaid funding: ther not be alive or would be in a much more We must end this dangerous exercise For a while Medicaid paid for medical care devastating situation. Many of the young of considering sweeping policy solely my son and I needed. Later Medicaid fund- adults that I care for in the cardiology unit for the purposes of fulfilling a nearly ing, and the cancer care it paid for, literally have opiate addiction and are there with se- decade-long partisan campaign prom- saved my life. It turns out many Americans rious infections because of that. And if it ise. We should move forward in a re- find out that they or someone they love weren’t for the part of the Affordable Care sponsible way. We should act in the needs medical care or disability services that Act that allowed young adults up to 26 to best interests of our constituents and only Medicaid covers. Medicaid not only still be covered by their parents insurance, helps individuals and families who need med- many of these young adults would not be not resort to cynical, bumper-sticker ical care or disability services in the commu- alive. So I’ve been fighting for health reform politicking. At its best, the Senate has nity; it also pays for approximately 64 per- in Vermont for decades now . . . This is THE been able to act as the conscience of cent of the people in nursing homes—finan- most immoral bill I’ve seen in my 58 years of the Nation. I hope now is such a time cial help that is necessary because so many life . . . I’m appalled and I’m angry, and I’m and that the Senate will rise to the oc- people spend down their life savings in the very motivated. I wish we didn’t have to be casion and abandon these harmful ef- first few years of care. I am glad that over here but I’m so proud to be here. forts. the years some of my tax dollars have paid These are real stories, real lives. This Mr. President, I yield the floor. for needed services for others. I believe we matters. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- must and can improve the quality, afford- These TrumpCare proposals are not ability and effectiveness of health care in ator from New Mexico. this country; but we won’t do it by denying healthcare bills. A true healthcare bill Mr. HEINRICH. Mr. President, after so many Americans basic health and dis- would not kick millions of Americans the rushed and secretive effort to re- ability services. off health insurance. A true healthcare peal the Affordable Care Act failed ear- Consider this deeply personal story bill would not allow insurance compa- lier this year, I had hoped that we from Allyson in Brattleboro: nies to charge people more for less cov- could finally turn the corner and move About a year ago, I got a migraine. it erage. A true healthcare bill would not forward in a bipartisan fashion to find never went away. Instead, it got worse and move us backwards to a time when some real solutions to our Nation’s re- worse, and turned into what is called a healthcare was unaffordable. maining healthcare challenges. hemiplegic migraine. These migraines look Where there are deficiencies, let’s fix I still believe that most of us here in and feel like strokes, but are ‘just’ mi- them. Where we can find common the Senate—including Senators ALEX- graines. I started having seizures soon after ground, let’s act. One of the first ANDER and MURRAY in the HELP Com- that; they would later be diagnosed as psy- things we should do is stabilize the in- mittee—are willing to work across chogenic nonepileptic seizures. I have also surance market by making cost-shar- party lines to find consensus on prag- had rheumatoid arthritis for five years. The saving grace in all of this has been ing payments permanent. Earlier this matic improvements. That is why I was Medicaid, made available to me through the month, the Senate was doing just that. so appalled that President Trump and Obamacare Medicaid Expansion. I have not The Health, Education, Labor, and Republican leadership are reviving a had to worry about affording the care I’ve Pensions Committee held bipartisan last-ditch effort to pass a disastrous needed (probably close to $100,000, plus hearings aimed at stabilizing our insur- bill that would upend our healthcare $80,000 in prescriptions), which has taken one ance market. This week, the Finance system and take away insurance cov- huge worry off my plate. I could go to the Committee reached an agreement on a erage from millions of Americans. seizure monitoring unit at DHMC for a week 5-year extension of the Children’s Worse yet and even harder to believe, without stopping to wonder how I was going the bill that Republican leadership is to pay for it. I could fill my—prescription Health Insurance Program. This is im- ($4,000 a month) without worry, and continue portant progress that should not be rushing to the floor for a vote this to walk around and look after my kids. I cast aside. week potentially is actually worse could try several medications for migraine We should also be working to shore than any previous versions of this leg- to try to get better. And I could get good, up funding for our health centers, islation. The so-called Graham-Cassidy solid therapy for mental health treatment. which will see a 70 percent cut at the bill they are hoping to vote on would Without these things, and the Medicaid end of the month if we fail to act. One mean higher premiums for worse cov- that pays for them, I would be far sicker of the issues I hear most about is the erage and millions of Americans losing than I am now. I would not be able to care for my children, or work even a little bit. I cost of prescription drugs, which is their health insurance. It will perma- would likely die young. Instead, I am mak- why I have introduced a bill along with nently gut Medicaid. Let me say that ing it through, spending time with my chil- Senator GRASSLEY that would help re- again. It will permanently gut Med- dren, and healing. duce drug costs by helping generic al- icaid. And despite promises to the con- Please continue fighting for my ternatives come to market faster. The trary that Republicans have long healthcare, for my life. American people expect us to work on made, it would end key protections for Vermonters came to Washington real solutions. We should not be push- people with preexisting conditions, Monday in their efforts to attend the ing a plan that hasn’t been vetted such as diabetes and heart disease. In sole hearing on the hapless Graham- where the primary goal seems to be to short, it would throw our entire

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.006 S26SEPT1 S6112 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 healthcare system into chaos. That is licans—get to work on the problems funding so that the island can begin just awful policy any way you look at with healthcare that we all agree need the long process of rebuilding. it. attention. There is work to be done, no Puerto Ricans, like Texans, like How did we get here? For over 7 doubt about it. There is still time to do Louisianans, and like Floridians, are years, Republicans in Washington have what is right for the American families U.S. citizens. They are our sisters and cheered shortcomings in our healthcare who elected us to work together and brothers, and it is our moral obligation system and blamed the Affordable Care make their lives better. The Graham- to provide them with help and relief in Act for every single problem, under the Cassidy bill simply does not do that. this time of their greatest need. premise that they would do better if we There is still time to change course—to As we debate healthcare, let’s re- only put them in charge. The trouble go through regular order, to hold hear- member that in the wake of these dev- has been that their opposition to the ings—plural—and to build a consensus astating storms, Puerto Rico and the ACA has been more rooted in bumper on fixes and improvements to the U.S. Virgin Islands will have enormous sticker politics than it ever was about healthcare system. As Senator MCCAIN public health needs. They will be sub- actual policy or plans to do better for told us all earlier this year, ‘‘We’ve ject to an increased risk of disease the American people. The long-lasting been spinning our wheels on too many transmission from a lack of clean effort on display throughout this year important issues because we keep try- drinking water, to physical injury from in the Senate is only further evidence ing to find a way to win without help the storm, and to mental and behav- that President Trump and Republicans from across the aisle.’’ Well said. ioral trauma from the remarkable in Congress don’t have any real solu- There is a better way forward. I am losses they are suffering. For those tions to improve our Nation’s confident that most of us would wel- who are suffering from chronic condi- healthcare system. come a bipartisan, regular order ap- tions, such as diabetes and cancer and After months of negotiations behind proach. We need to remember that heart disease, finding and accessing closed doors, when Senate Republicans there are real people’s lives that hang treatment will be a daily struggle. released their secret TrumpCare bill in in the balance in this debate. I have Puerto Rico is a medical tragedy that July, its contents proved too harmful heard so many New Mexicans talk is happening right before our eyes. His- for passage, even in their own caucus. about what health coverage means to tory will judge us by how quickly we Now they are hoping for one more last- them and their families. I don’t know respond to this catastrophe. ditch vote before the end of September about you, but that is whose interests HEALTHCARE to pass something, anything to follow I am looking out for. Mr. President, we should remember through on their reckless mission. Real, bipartisan solutions to the that this debate over healthcare is not One consequence of this legislation challenges in our healthcare system confined to just this week, and it is that is so important to my home State are within reach if President Trump certainly not confined to this building of New Mexico is that if we pass this and the Republican leadership would or even to this mainland. bill, it will spell the end to any just be willing to let us work together Yesterday, I held an emergency progress we have made in fighting our to find them. roundtable with the leading healthcare Nation’s opioid and heroin epidemic. It Thank you, Mr. President. leaders in Massachusetts. These are the is nothing short of hypocrisy for Presi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- healthcare heroes who provide compas- dent Trump to say they are taking this ator from Massachusetts. sion and treatment each day to their major public health crisis seriously PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS patients. They all spoke poignantly when they are supporting this bill. RECOVERY EFFORT about the devastation that would come Ironically, the bill before us actually Mr. MARKEY. Thank you, Mr. Presi- from repealing and replacing the Af- does less to combat opioids than the dent. fordable Care Act. bill that was too draconian and dam- I would like to start my remarks Dr. Peter Slavin, president of Massa- aging to pass last time. It is not just today by offering my prayers and my chusetts General Hospital, said: ‘‘To the behavioral health system and support to the people of Puerto Rico repeal the [Affordable Care Act] would opioid treatment that will be upended and to their family members and be a horrible sin for this country.’’ if we dismantle the Medicaid Program; friends here in the United States, many Yet that is exactly what the Graham- Medicaid pays for seniors in nursing of whom have still not been able to get Cassidy bill is. It is a cruel and inhu- homes, for school nurses who care for information about their loved ones. mane sin that would damn millions of our kids, and for Americans with dis- Massachusetts is home to the fifth American families. abilities, and Medicaid has been a fi- largest Puerto Rican community in the In some cases, this most recent nancial lifeline for hospitals and health mainland United States. It is a vibrant TrumpCare proposal is even worse than clinics in rural communities across community, an engaged community, the failed bills before it. The bill pro- this Nation. I know this because I have and since Hurricanes Irma and Maria, posed the use of a totally subjective heard it directly from our rural health it has been a mobilized community. formula which was changed at the providers in New Mexico. If we pass They are horrified by the images that whim of the bill’s sponsors to entice these drastic cuts to Medicaid, some of are emerging from the island, pictures more Republicans to vote in favor of it. our rural health providers in New Mex- and videos of destroyed homes and of The bill was nothing more than some- ico may very well have to close up the massive flooding and widespread thing that had political plastic surgery shop. devastation. These images are difficult that had been performed, but it was This is not some partisan assess- for any of us to see, and for those who fundamentally the same bill. ment; this is what will happen accord- have family there, these scenes beg for At the roundtable I held in Boston ing to many experts and people in the immediate action. Thousands of fami- yesterday, Dr. Henry Dorkin, president healthcare field who have nothing po- lies are homeless, infrastructure is al- of the Massachusetts Medical Society, litical at stake in this debate. The most beyond repair, and much of the said: ‘‘I fear that if Graham-Cassidy Medicaid directors for all 50 States and population will be without power for an were to pass, we would go back to at- the Republican and Democratic Gov- indefinite period of time going into the tending more funerals of children.’’ ernors alike have come out against this future. There is simply no reason to go back bill. We need to act now. We must treat to a time when people died of prevent- Look, I am not outraged about all of Puerto Rico just like any other U.S. able or treatable conditions simply be- this because I am a Democrat or be- State that is experiencing a natural cause they did not have access to in- cause of what I think of President Don- disaster. That means that the United surance. ald Trump; I am outraged about this States should continue deploying its Just moments ago, we learned that bill because of what it will do to New military and civilian assets to provide the Republican leadership will not hold Mexico families and to the commu- lifesaving search-and-rescue, food, a vote on this disastrous bill. They nities I represent. shelter, and power to residents of the simply did not have the votes. Right If we can halt this mad rush, we island. Congress must also act to im- now, millions of Americans are again could all—Democrats and Repub- mediately provide additional aid and breathing a sigh of relief.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.021 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6113 I applaud my colleagues Senator health insurance exchange, an indi- coverage in the exchanges benefit from JOHN MCCAIN of Arizona, Senator vidual marketplace. Stabilize them. a sliding scale tax credit that buys SUSAN COLLINS of Maine, and others in They all basically said to do mainly down the cost of the premiums. If the this Chamber who are calling for a bi- three or four things to stabilize them: premiums go down by 30 or 35 percent, partisan process to strengthen and im- No. 1, make clear that these cost- that means that Uncle Sam, out of the prove our healthcare system. We have sharing subsidies, which help lower in- U.S. Treasury, pays less money in the done it before on the opioid crisis. We come people in the exchanges with form of those tax credits. That is not a have done it on Alzheimer’s and other their copays and deductibles, are not bad deal. medical research funding. I still believe going away. Make it clear that they Our Republican friends like to talk we can do it here. We need to do what are going to be around for at least a about dynamic scoring. I am not sure I we have done so many times before and couple of years. believe dynamic scoring is real, but I focus on bipartisan solutions instead of No. 2, either give the States the abil- believe if we actually do help drive partisan exercises. ity to create their own reinsurance down the cost of premium increases, I hope we can put Graham-Cassidy plans or create one for the Federal Uncle Sam is a big beneficiary of that. and other TrumpCare proposals behind Government, by the Federal Govern- The last two things I want to say are, us and embrace bipartisan negotiations ment, involving the Federal Govern- No. 1, I thank Senator ALEXANDER and led by Senators ALEXANDER and MUR- ment. Senator MURRAY for the great bipar- RAY to stabilize the individual health The third thing they said is, if we are tisan leadership they have shown. I had insurance market. not going to enforce the individual a chance to go to four bipartisan Just last week, Senators WYDEN and mandate—I, personally, think we roundtables a couple of weeks ago. HATCH introduced bipartisan legisla- should—then make sure there is some- They welcomed people not on the tion to reauthorize the Children’s thing that is just as effective as the in- HELP Committee. I am on the Finance Health Insurance Program for 5 more dividual mandate in order to make sure Committee, as is the Presiding Officer. years. There are a number of bipartisan that young people—millennials like my We have shared jurisdiction with the healthcare issues that need immediate sons—are getting their healthcare. HELP Committee. But we have the op- attention this week, such as the fund- They are in the exchanges, and they portunity in our committee to sort of ing for community health centers and are helping to make sure there is a follow the lead, if you will, of what extending the number of Medicare poli- healthy mix of people to insure. they are doing on the HELP Com- cies. Those were almost word by word, mittee and do bipartisan hearings and This bill was not our only option. It panel by panel, what we heard in four bipartisan roundtables of our own. is not even really an option, at least different hearings by the HELP Com- Why don’t we sort of pick up where not for those Americans with pre- mittee during four different bipartisan we were about a week and a half ago existing conditions, who are on Med- roundtables that preceded those hear- when the prospect of debating and vot- icaid, or who need opioid treatment. ings. They all said to fix the exchanges. ing on Graham-Cassidy came out of no- We need to work together in this I have an old friend who is now de- where and led to yesterday’s 5-hour Chamber to improve health in a way ceased. He was a Methodist minister hearing in the Finance Committee? that works for all Americans regard- for many years in southern Delaware. Why don’t we pick up where we left a less of where they live or who their He used to give me this advice when I week and a half ago and get to work Governor is. That is the responsibility was Governor: Just remember this, again? of those who serve here, and now let us TOM—the main thing is to keep the This is not something we ought to have a new beginning, where we begin main thing the main thing. take weeks or months to do. Let’s just to work together to solve those prob- That is what he said. The first time do the main things; that is, stabilize lems. he said it, I didn’t know what he was the exchanges, and if we do nothing I yield the floor. saying. It took me a while, but I finally else in the next week or so, let’s make The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- figured it out. The main thing is to it clear that these cost-sharing sub- ator from Delaware. keep the main thing the main thing. sidies are not going to go away. We Mr. CARPER. Mr. President, while Right now, the thing that we can do help people on the exchanges, the pre- the Senator from Massachusetts is still and ought to be able to agree on is to mium increases go down, and we actu- with us on the floor and in other ways stabilize the exchanges. Premiums do ally help the Treasury. That is not a as well, I just want to say a couple of not have to go up in the exchanges by bad deal. things. 30, 40 percent. If we would simply do The last thing I want to say is for One, good for the Senator. He just one thing and make it clear that these those people who say that Democrats said a mouthful, and he said what cost-sharing subsidies are not going believe the Affordable Care Act is per- needs to be said. What he said is that away and give that green light to the fect and nothing needs to be changed. there is not just one or two choices. insurance companies, insurance com- That is just nonsense. The Presiding Somebody said to me yesterday: Well, missioners across the country will re- Officer and I can sit down and tick off it is a choice between either a single- duce significantly the increases in the a number of things that ought to be ad- payer or Graham-Cassidy. Those are premiums. dressed and fixed. He and I probably, as our choices. I have been told by more than a few smart as we are, are not smart enough Uh-uh. No. No. I think a far better health insurance companies that if we to figure out all of them. We need to choice for us to take is in the example would do that and make sure there is have a good hearing and good conversa- of leadership set by Senators ALEX- some kind of reinsurance program in tion amongst ourselves and with a ANDER and MURRAY on the Committee place, in effect, and also make it clear broad section of shareholders and of Health, Education, Labor, and Pen- that the individual mandate must con- stakeholders across the country. As a sions. As the Presiding Officer knows, tinue to be enforced—and if it is not, recovering Governor and former chair in a span of 2 weeks, they held four bi- then replace it with something that is of the National Governors Association, partisan roundtables with Governors just as good—if we would do those I want to hear the voices of the Gov- from all over the country, insurance three things, we would see premiums ernors. I want to hear the voices of the commissioners from all over the coun- go down anywhere from 30 to 35 percent insurance commissioners and a whole try, healthcare providers, insurance, in the exchanges across the country. lot of other people who are affected by and health economists to ask: What Who mostly benefits from that? Who this. should we do? What should we do right benefits from a 30- or 35-percent reduc- Every President, I think, since Harry now in our being faced with the chal- tion in premiums in the exchanges? Truman has called for providing lenge and maybe the possibility of re- The folks who are getting their insur- healthcare coverage for just about ev- pealing the Affordable Care Act? What ance in the exchanges benefit, but do eryone in our country—every Presi- should we do? you know who else probably benefits dent. Along the way we made some ad- They all said the same thing—sta- even more? Uncle Sam. The reason is vances with Medicaid and Medicare bilize the exchanges. Every State has a that most of the people who get their with Lyndon Johnson. We made some

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:20 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.023 S26SEPT1 S6114 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 advances in the Clinton administration In Ohio and other places, and cer- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The with ORRIN HATCH and Ted Kennedy’s tainly in Delaware, we have huge prob- clerk will call the roll. legislation creating the CHIP Program, lems with opioids and heroin. The big- The senior assistant legislative clerk the Children’s Health Insurance Pro- gest form of treatment, as the Pre- proceeded to call the roll. gram. We are still a long way from siding Officer knows, for people with Mrs. GILLIBRAND. Mr. President, I where we ought to be for health insur- drug addiction in this country is Med- ask unanimous consent that the order ance in this country. icaid. Those are some reasons we think for the quorum call be rescinded. Here is the trifecta of where we it is important not to touch one hair The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without would like to go and where Presidents on the head of Medicaid, if you will, objection, it is so ordered. but to try to figure out how to make and leaders have said forever that we PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS changes in a smart and humane way. ought to go. No. 1, provide quality RECOVERY EFFORT healthcare for people in this country; Let me say a word or two about veterans’ healthcare. My understanding is Mrs. GILLIBRAND. Mr. President, I No. 2, do it in a cost-effective way; and rise to speak about the humanitarian No. 3, cover everybody. We are doing a that the last version of the Republican healthcare proposal was pulled today, crisis in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Vir- lot better job of covering everyone. We gin Islands. This is one of the worst have 20-some million people who don’t not to be voted on. It totally cut several hundreds of billions of dollars from disasters our country has ever seen. have coverage. That is down from 50 The men, women, and children who million people years ago. Medicaid. I believe most everyone says that is true. Not every veteran has ac- live on these islands are American citi- We still have people without cov- zens. Do not forget that. They are suf- erage. We spend a lot more money in cess to the VA for healthcare. Nearly 2 million veterans, as I mentioned ear- fering, and they need our help. They percentage of GDP in this country than have no food to eat, no water to drink, most other advanced nations. We have lier—that is 1 in 10 veterans in this country—rely on Medicaid for their no power, and no refrigeration. If we to continue to get better results for don’t give them help now, then many less money and have a real focus on healthcare, and that includes some 6,000 veterans who are living in my own more people there will die—far more value. than those who were killed during the There is a lot of encouraging work State of Delaware. hurricane itself. going on in my State. I know in Ohio The Affordable Care Act provided I urge my colleagues to think about there are places like the Cleveland healthcare coverage to some 340,000 our fellow American citizens in Puerto Clinic. There are places like Christiana veterans in the States that expanded Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and Care in my State. There is a lot of en- Medicaid. For our veterans who rely on what they are suffering through right couraging work going on, and we ought Medicaid, the most recent TrumpCare now. Listen to their cries for help. Lis- to build on it and find out what works proposal would significantly scale back ten to what one of my constituents and do that. benefits or cause them to lose their Lastly, I want to give a shout out to benefits altogether. Veterans who rely said to me: on those benefits would see higher Senator GARY PETERS and Senators We need help getting my grandparents to healthcare costs and lower quality care come to New York. Their house is damaged DUCKWORTH, STABENOW, myself, and a if they could access it at all. All the and not safe. My grandfather is 93 with Alz- couple of others who have been focused heimer’s. He is bed bound. He has not been on a veterans’ health motion to com- while, we know veterans are at high risk for serious and complex issues be- able to walk for over 18 months. My grand- mit. I want to say a few words about mother is 92 and diabetic with a heart prob- healthcare as it pertains to veterans. cause of their service. I want to close by saying in a heart- lem. My aunt is 68, and we think had a brain This has been lost sometimes in the aneurism and needs medical care. Please felt way that we all know veterans. We shuffle. help them. Help get them to New York. We have an obligation to those who have The Medicaid Program in our coun- can pay for the plane ticket. We need help served us to make sure we take care of try covers about 25 percent of the peo- getting them to the airport and putting them later in their lives. We do that in ple who get healthcare in this country. them on the plane. a variety of ways. Medicare is about 15 percent. The ma- Another New Yorker told me that her The VA system is much maligned in father is a veteran of Vietnam and is a jority of people who get healthcare my State. It is not perfect, but I think coverage in this country get it through retired police department lieutenant they do a darn good job. We have one who now lives in Puerto Rico. This vet- their large group plan. We have 6 per- big hospital in Northern Delaware and cent or 7 percent who get coverage eran of the U.S. military told his two community-based outpatient clin- daughter that he suffered from head through the exchanges. ics—one in Dover and Centerville and trauma because he slipped and fell As a navy veteran, an ROTC guy, re- another one in the southern part of our while clearing water from his house. He tired Navy Captain, we know that not State. They do a very good job. every veteran actually gets their We are about to open a brandnew, told his daughter that Puerto Rico is healthcare coverage from the VA. A 10,000-square foot community out- devastated and looks like an atomic number of them aren’t eligible for that. patient clinic in Georgetown, DE, the bomb has struck the island. He is with- As it turns out, among the people who county seat of our southernmost coun- out power, cell phone use, and water. receive coverage under Medicaid today, ty. Having said that, not every veteran He told her that Mother Nature had un- a lot of them are old, a lot of them are in Delaware can access those facilities. leashed a monster on them. like our parents, grandparents, aunts, For them, Medicaid is useful, and in He said, ‘‘God have mercy on us,’’ and and uncles. The reason they are eligi- some cases it is critical to having any then told his daughter that he loved ble for Medicaid is they have spent care at all. We should keep that in her. down their resources and assets, and mind. The challenges of the focus that This man is a veteran. He served in they are old. A bunch of them have de- were created by the possible vote here our military alongside so many other mentia. Maybe the family is unable or on this floor are now averted on the Americans from Puerto Rico. He pro- unwilling to take care of them, and Graham-Cassidy proposal. As we go for- tected our country when we needed they end up in a nursing home, and ward in a bipartisan way, let’s work to- him, so we need to protect him now. Medicare picks up the tab. gether to fix the things in the Afford- How would you respond if this hu- I described it yesterday in our Fi- able Care Act that need to be fixed and manitarian crisis happened in your nance Committee hearing. It is like a preserve those that need to be pre- State or in my State or any other tsunami. My generation, the baby served, and for the aspects that need to State around the country? boomers, are moving into their retire- be dealt with or dropped, let’s figure Can the Presiding Officer imagine ment and moving into their seventies, out how to do that in a smart and hu- what this would be like if it were Ohio? eighties, and nineties, in some cases. A mane way. We need to also keep in Can you imagine what this would be lot of them are old, and they have de- mind that a couple million people who like if it were New York? We would act mentia. A couple million of them are use Medicaid are veterans themselves. as quickly as we could. We would give veterans who get their healthcare cov- With that, I suggest the absence of a people there every resource they need erage through Medicaid. quorum. to recover. We wouldn’t hesitate even

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:20 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.024 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6115 for a moment. This is urgent and seri- lages. Limited funding meant medical pansion has been an ‘‘unqualified suc- ous, and we have to help our fellow services were often rationed to only cess.’’ The ACA brought new hope to citizens now. emergency care or life and limb. IHS Native families and communities. Congress must provide the funding patients were not guaranteed access to But this latest Republican plan will necessary to send every resource avail- comprehensive medical services, spe- undo this success. Thank goodness it able. Help them clean up. Help them re- cialized services, or preventive care. has been withdrawn. In that plan, they cover without further delay. That in- The Affordable Care Act and the claim they will preserve Medicaid ex- cludes providing disaster community Medicaid expansion changed this equa- pansion eligibility rules for Tribes. block grant funding, just as we did for tion and changed it dramatically. The This offers a false hope. the people of Texas and Florida. We ACA alone has increased third-party Like most people on Medicaid, Tribal cannot turn our backs on our fellow billing revenues to IHS more than 25 members go on and off the rolls as citizens. percent, and Medicaid funding for IHS their income fluctuates. Proposals like I yield the floor. has increased nearly 50 percent. Tribal Graham-Cassidy would require that I suggest the absence of a quorum. and urban health facilities have been they be continuously enrolled in Med- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The able to move away from healthcare ra- icaid expansion and work to receive clerk will call the roll. tioning. benefits. If not, they would be dropped The senior assistant legislative clerk Medicaid expansion has provided permanently from the program. proceeded to call the roll. health insurance to an additional Section 128 of Graham-Cassidy is also Mr. UDALL. Mr. President, I ask 290,000 Native Americans from 492 being pushed as helpful to Indian Coun- unanimous consent that the order for Tribes—almost 90 percent of all Tribes. try. This section expands IHS’s Federal the quorum call be rescinded. This includes 45,600 Tribal members reimbursement rate to non-Native pro- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without from my home State of New Mexico. viders, but really it is a veiled attempt objection, it is so ordered. Uninsured rates in Indian Country to buy off State leaders concerned have decreased from 53 percent to 39 HEALTH CARE about massive cuts to the Medicaid percent, and many Tribal communities’ Mr. UDALL. Thank you, Mr. Presi- Program. It will not improve Tribal uninsured rates are even lower. At the dent, for your recognition. healthcare facilities. It will undercut Santa Domingo Pueblo in New Mexico, I rise today with my colleagues from the IHS, and it will undermine the 22 percent of Kewa Pueblo Health Cor- the Senate Committee on Indian Af- Tribal self-determination by bypassing poration’s patients were uninsured in fairs, Senator HEITKAMP and Senator Tribal input in the Federal Medicaid 2013. In 2016, the uninsured rate was CORTEZ MASTO, to talk about how the reimbursement process. down to 7 percent. At the IHS Sante Fe Republicans’ latest and most heartless There are 30,000 Native Americans Service Unit in New Mexico, 84 percent healthcare bill hurts American Indians who now have private individual health of our patients now have some sort of and Alaska Natives. insurance thanks to the ACA. Every insurance. On the Turtle Mountain I have just heard some good news Republican plan so far strips away the Reservation in North Dakota, they that this bill might not be brought up ACA’s cost-sharing subsidies and tax have seen a 14-percent reduction in unfor a vote this week, but Republicans credits, which help make private insur- insured Tribal members. At the Port- insist that they will continue their ef- ance affordable for many of these Trib- land Urban Indian Health Center, the forts to repeal the Affordable Care Act al members and for millions of working rate of uninsured has gone from 56 per- and raid the Medicaid expansion pro- cent to 8 percent, solely due to Med- Americans. The Republican bill does gram, which will devastate Indian icaid expansion. This is impressive. Let nothing to help these Native Ameri- Country. So this latest withdrawal is me just say that again. It has gone cans keep their health insurance. great, but they are saying that it is not The sponsors can try to dress this bill from 56 percent uninsured to 8 percent. going away. So we have to maintain Medicaid expansion has helped to up, but the glaring reality is that vigilance on this issue. make up for this historic underfunding TrumpCare 2.0 would be terrible for In- We came together before, in July, in IHS services. Third-party billing dian Country. In fact, it is worse for when Republicans’ Better Care Rec- revenue through Medicaid is now up to Tribes than any other proposed repeal onciliation Act threatened to roll back 35 percent of the Kewa Pueblo Health plan so far. healthcare for Native communities. Corporation’s total budget. For the It is no surprise that prominent Na- With that bill’s defeat, we hoped the Jicarilla Apache Tribe in New Mexico, tive organizations—the National In- debate over legislation that jeopard- Medicaid makes up more than 75 per- dian Health Board, the National Con- ized healthcare for Native communities cent of their third-party billing rev- gress of American Indians, and the Na- was behind us, and we hoped we could enue. At the Navajo Crownpoint IHS tional Council of Urban Indian begin to work in earnest in a bipar- hospital, 50 percent of their budget Health—oppose Graham-Cassidy and tisan way to address the real comes from Medicaid third-party bill- proposals like it. They join virtually healthcare problems that Americans ing revenue. For Seattle’s urban Indian all major patient advocate organiza- face. health clinic, operated by the Seattle tions and medical organizations in Given this new threat, my Indian Af- Indian Health Board, Medicaid and their opposition, including the Amer- fairs Committee colleagues and I must Medicare expansion have resulted in a ican Heart Association, the American remind this Chamber, once again, that revenue increase of 146 percent since Cancer Society, the American Lung As- the Federal Government bears a sol- 2012. sociation, and the American Medical emn trust, treaty responsibility, and Medicaid expansion has allowed IHS Association. obligation to ensure that Native Amer- to expand services and build new facili- Eighty percent of the American peo- icans receive quality healthcare. Each ties. Kewa Pueblo Health Corporation ple disapprove of the Republicans’ at- version of the Republican repeal we has used some of its third-party billing tempts to undermine healthcare. Gra- have seen so far violates that trust re- to offer new specialty-care services, ham-Cassidy is woefully out of touch sponsibility by taking healthcare away like obstetrics and podiatry, and to with the American people and, espe- from hundreds of thousands of Native build new clinic space. Santa Fe IHS cially, with Indian Country. I am glad Americans and abdicating the Federal used its additional funds to build new this bill will not receive a vote this Government’s Native healthcare re- examination rooms for Santa Clara week. sponsibilities. If any of these proposals Pueblo, establish a mobile health unit Just like tens of millions of our fel- pass, Native Americans’ health and for San Felipe Pueblo, and update out- low Americans, Tribes, Tribal organi- lives will be in danger. These efforts patient rooms at the main clinic in zations, and individual Native Ameri- must be stopped. Santa Fe. The Seattle urban Indian cans all around the country are wor- Everyone familiar with Indian Coun- clinic uses its additional revenue to ex- ried about what Republicans will do to try knows that the Indian Health Serv- pand patient services to include a pilot their healthcare. I have received a ice is severely underfunded. ‘‘Don’t get opioid addiction program. record 15,000 calls, emails, and letters sick after June’’ was a familiar refrain In the words of the National Council from constituents about healthcare on many reservations, pueblos, and vil- on Urban Indian Health, Medicaid ex- this year. Almost all of them have been

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:20 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.025 S26SEPT1 S6116 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 opposed to the Republicans’ relentless the last that we have heard of it, but it spond to many times with great empa- attacks on healthcare, and not a single is critically important that now we thy, are never taken out of that com- Tribe has reached out to my office in have time to talk about the impacts mittee room. They are never under- support of this bill. and we have time to talk about why it stood broadly by Senators in this These attacks are happening behind is that we found this bill so objection- Chamber. We vowed that day that we closed doors. There was only one able, and we have an opportunity to are never going to leave those chal- rushed hearing, and it was yesterday. raise the issues that may have been lenges in that committee room. We are There is no formal Congressional Budg- forgotten. I think one of those issues is going to take those challenges to this et Office analysis, and there has been the unique challenges that Native forum and to this floor. We want to no meaningful consultation with American people have in receiving and share our concern about the lack of Tribes. Although many of us have affording quality healthcare in Amer- Tribal consultation in the healthcare called for that, there has been no con- ica. debates so far. sultation. It is difficult to adequately All of the Tribes in my State have a Unfortunately, the Graham-Cassidy describe the recklessness, cruelty, and treaty right to healthcare. It is kind of healthcare bill still does not remotely cynicism in the Republicans’ rush to like when they say that, under the Af- or adequately protect Native people. tear down the ACA. fordable Care Act, you have access to Just look at the opposition to the bill The Senate Health, Education, care, but if the care is low quality, if from the National Congress of Amer- Labor, and Pensions Committee start- the care is unavailable, if the care is ican Indians, the National Indian ed a bipartisan effort to address the not something you can afford or that Health Board, and the National Council real healthcare needs in this country, will actually provide the kinds of serv- of Urban Indian Health. This bill is just but Republicans froze it once Graham- ices that you need, it is really not ful- as bad as, if not worse than, the pre- Cassidy was introduced. I am really fillment of the treaty obligation. vious bill. To push it through without hoping now that Chairman LAMAR One of the things we know is that adequate consultation in ways that ALEXANDER and Vice Chairman PATTY many of the programs within the Af- would fundamentally change our MURRAY can get back to the bipartisan fordable Care Act have gone a long way healthcare system is in no way putting work that needs to be done. Other toward meeting the Federal Govern- the healthcare needs of people first; it time-sensitive legislation with broad, ment’s treaty responsibility to provide is putting politics first. It is irrespon- bipartisan support—like reauthoriza- healthcare to Native American people. sible and unconscionable. tion of the Children’s Health Insurance We talk about how Graham-Cassidy Those of us on the Indian Affairs Program and the Special Diabetes Pro- would hurt seniors, children with dis- Committee know undoubtedly that the gram for Indians, which need to be en- abilities, individuals with preexisting Indian Health Service is severely un- acted before the end of September—was conditions like asthma or cancer, those derfunded and, some of us would argue, pushed aside. receiving treatment for opioid abuse, inappropriately managed. It has been Congress needs to change focus. We and many more. But too often in those that way since I have been here. We need to work across the aisle to meet statistics, which would encompass have experienced those challenges of the needs of the American people, and many Native American people who un- lack of leadership, lack of funding, and, we need to improve Native American fortunately have high rates of chronic really, an attitude that this is the way healthcare. We have come a long way conditions, the specific and unique we have always done it. It has resulted under the Affordable Care Act and the needs of Native populations are forgot- in very many of our institutions losing Medicaid expansion, but we are far ten during debates in the Congress. It their CMS certification. That is unac- from being able to declare victory. I happened when Republicans tried to ceptable. echo our colleague from Arizona, Sen- pass their initial healthcare bill over The stories are unacceptable, but we ator MCCAIN. Given the enormous im- the summer, and it nearly happened also cannot just pin it on Indian pact of healthcare on the lives of again. health. We have to recognize and un- Americans and our economy, we need Here we are on the Senate floor to derstand that this is also a funding to find bipartisan solutions through make sure that Native communities problem. So it is essential that we find the regular order. are not left behind during these discus- resources to fill those gaps and enter Partisan repeal of the ACA is not sions in the future. We will be watch- the Affordable Care Act, where we not right for Indian Country or for Amer- ing to make sure that communities in only have traditional Medicaid eligi- ica. our State, unique and discreet, and, in bility, but we also have expanded Med- Now, Mr. President, I would yield the fact, treaty Tribes, which are entitled icaid, which now has given extra hope floor to my colleague from North Da- to healthcare by contract, by treaty to Indian healthcare providers that kota, Senator HEITKAMP. I worked for with the U.S. Government—that their this resource can be made available many years as attorney general with interests are heard and that their without constantly having to beg for Senator HEITKAMP. She was a great voices are heard. additional resources for Indian health. champion during those years for Native In July, when the Senate was dis- So it is particularly because of these Americans and, specifically, for Native cussing the last Republican healthcare severe challenges at the Indian Health American children. She has been an in- bill that would have taken healthcare Service that traditional Medicaid, credible advocate on the Affordable away from North Dakota families, I Medicaid expansion, and private health Care Act and the good that it has done worked with Senator UDALL, vice insurance access have been critical for for Native Americans. chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Indian Country, making sure Native The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Committee, to hold a discussion on Americans can access quality, afford- ator from North Dakota is recognized. Tribal healthcare. The purpose was to able care to keep them and their fami- Ms. HEITKAMP. Thank you, Mr. hear directly from Tribal leaders, in- lies healthy. President. cluding the chairman of the Turtle Thanks to the increase of third-party To my great colleague and one of the Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians payments, we are no longer limited to nicest people here, Senator UDALL, who from North Dakota, about how bad life and limb care at Tribal and IHS fa- always leads with his brain, we know that bill would have been for Indian cilities in the Great Plains IHS service that his heart isn’t far behind, and he Country. area. But the Graham-Cassidy has been a tremendous leader, a tre- During that discussion in July, we la- healthcare bill would undo all of that mendous advocate, and a tremendous mented—those of us who are on the progress. It would slash Medicaid ex- collaborator on this all-important committee, especially the minority pansion and cap the Federal contribu- issue. members—that what happens in the In- tions to traditional Medicaid, pushing I think first that we have to ac- dian Affairs Committee all too often those remaining costs onto States and knowledge how grateful and thankful stays in the Indian Affairs Committee. counties that can ill afford it. we are that the Republican bill, known What do I mean by that? I think the Medicaid expansion has significant as Graham-Cassidy, will not be ad- stories we hear and the challenges we impact on IHS services at Turtle vanced this week. I don’t think it is hear about Native people, which we re- Mountain, increasing the funding and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:20 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.027 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6117 resources available to its patient popu- services. Quite honestly, keeping chil- eral Government—if, in fact, the cit- lation by increasing healthcare serv- dren with their families is a long- izen of that State were Native Amer- ices, increasing Purchased/Referred standing challenge, as we see the his- ican enrolled—to say that really is a Care, or PRC, services, and increasing tory of childhood trauma beginning at Federal treaty right. So the Federal revenue generation. the time of not only the westward Government should pay 100 percent of Here are just some of the statistics movement of families, like my ances- that, even though your State match that show how Turtle Mountain’s IHS tors, but the trauma that was experi- would be 50–50. That makes sense. I can hospital has been impacted by the Med- enced when children were ripped out of buy that. But do you know what? That icaid expansion: a 13-percent decrease their homes and taken to boarding does nothing to expand healthcare to in uninsured patients; a 30-percent in- schools—a trauma from which many Native people—nothing. What that crease in Medicaid coverage; a 13-per- Native American communities have does is say that 50 percent that you are cent increase in traditional Medicare not yet recovered. currently paying is because these are coverage; a 57-percent increase in pri- Sadly, this plan would take a signifi- citizens of your State, not some kind of vate insurance coverage; a 9-percent in- cant step backward in healthcare for nonresidents. These are residents of crease in the number of individuals all Americans and certainly fall short your State, citizens of your State, served; a 43-percent increase in revenue on our promises and our treaty obliga- whom you pay that additional 50 per- generation, i.e., collections; and a 32- tions to Native Americans. With so cent for. If the argument had been that percent increase in Purchased/Referred much at stake in our healthcare sys- we are going to take that additional 50 Care referrals. That may sound as if it tem, it is critical that we take a percent, the Federal Government is is good for the institution, but when it thoughtful and inclusive approach to going to pay it, and we are going to is good for the institution—the healthcare—in fact, healthcare reform augment what we do in healthcare for healthcare provider—it is good for the that considers the needs of all Ameri- this population, then we are actually families who get their services there. cans, including, in my case, the first getting somewhere. Then we are actu- Third-party billing revenue has also Americans, Native Americans. ally accomplishing something for Na- allowed the hospital to make renova- Republicans need to work with tive American people and Native Amer- tions to emergency rooms and clinics, Democrats. I was saddened when I ican children. purchase new medical equipment, in- heard last night during the debate a I want you to understand that this is cluding neonatal monitors, recruit and discussion about how there isn’t any a population that suffers diabetes at hire additional staff, including licensed opportunity for bipartisanship. I, like record rates—hypertension, behavioral professionals, increase staff training 30 of my other colleagues, attended and mental health, including serious and education, provide Wi-Fi through- meetings held by the HELP Committee addictions, with record and epidemic out the hospital, and expand its all-im- before their hearings. Think about suicides among young people all portant behavioral healthcare facility this. Thirty U.S. Senators, at 8 in the through Indian Country, record and to serve more patients. morning, without a mandate, with no epic amounts of opioid and meth addic- But the Republican healthcare bill obligation to be there, completely vol- tion, children being born addicted. would have eliminated these cost-shar- untary, came together during three We need interventions now. We do ing payments that make private health mornings to talk about how we can not need to see a reduction in support insurance affordable and accessible to work together as a bipartisan group on to healthcare—both behavioral and American Indian families and North healthcare. So when people say it is mental healthcare—right now, at this Dakota Indian families for the first not happening, it clearly is happening. time. It is a crisis, and we need to do time. All through the country you hear It is happening, and we can, in fact, get everything we can to consult with the this over and over again, in pockets of to yes on many of the challenges that Tribes, to consult with Indian poverty in this country. For the first we have in healthcare. But we can’t get healthcare leaders, to consult with the time in people’s lives, they have an in- to a lasting system if it is something people who do this work for a living, surance card, and that is a ticket to a that is done in a back room in the dead and fashion a system that will expand future. Without an insurance card, of night without consultation, not just and grow access to healthcare. It is many times people are left behind. This with other Members of this body but critically important. is an issue I have spoken about mul- without consultation for groups like Make no mistake, these are the first tiple times because it is so important. Native American Tribes and Native Americans, and way too often, the ‘‘as- In North Dakota, the Republican bill American people. terisk Americans.’’ What do I mean by would have caused an estimate of al- Over the past 41⁄2 years, I have offered most 1,000 Native Americans to lose reasonable reforms that should be bi- that? They are not large enough to their cost-sharing reduction payments. partisan to make the current have a demographic category, so their The Republican healthcare bill would healthcare system work better for Da- challenges are not tracked, whether it also jeopardize all-important mental kotans and better for those citizens is human trafficking, whether it is ad- health services for Native youth and and my constituents in Indian Coun- diction. If we do not begin to focus on could remove a trauma-informed ap- try. Over the past few months and this, we will fail in our treaty obliga- proach to students’ education. The years, I have met with a group of Re- tions. Mandan, Hidatsa, Arikara Nation from publican and Democratic Senators to The United States of America signed my State is working to set up a mental talk about reasonable reforms that a treaty with Indian people. Let’s keep health pilot program in their schools would make healthcare work better if our word. Let’s work together. Let’s by next year in this partnership with we just focus for a minute on what work in collaboration with many of the Nexus and PATH in North Dakota, unites us and what we can do if we just people in my State who are struggling which will bring social workers and a set aside partisanship, if we simply be- to make ends meet. Let’s not reduce satellite clinic to school campus. This lieve that we can, in fact, bury par- services and resources. Let’s not take a pilot program will be paid for by Med- tisan hatchets and begin the work of step backward. icaid. working together. Thank you. The Graham-Cassidy healthcare bill I want to mention one last discussion I yield the floor back to the Senator would cut $5.5 billion from traditional item. Many times, when you hear peo- from New Mexico. Medicaid in North Dakota by 2036, af- ple talk about treaty obligations for The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- fecting 36,000 low-income—not people— healthcare or education, it is usually ator from New Mexico. but low-income children. The Tribe and people on this side of the aisle who are Mr. UDALL. Mr. President, let me the North Dakota Department of Pub- talking about Tribal sovereignty, Trib- thank my colleague Senator HEITKAMP lic Instruction are relying on those al treaty rights. Well, I was gladdened for her great advocacy today for Native Medicaid dollars to keep this mental to hear my colleague from South Da- Americans. I have known her for a long health program possible, which will kota talk about a treaty right that time. In every public service job she keep kids in the classroom and in the Tribes in his State have to healthcare. has had—whether it was the State tax communities while they are provided The solution there was to ask the Fed- commissioner of North Dakota or the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:20 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.028 S26SEPT1 S6118 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 attorney general and now U.S. Sen- ice coverage and care, as Chairman It is true that Indian Country made ator—she has always been a great ad- Torres discussed? significant gains under the Affordable vocate for the Tribes. We so much ap- Mr. UDALL. I say to Senator CORTEZ Care Act. Before the ACA, the Indian preciate that. I can tell you, she is one MASTO, thank you so much. Thank you Health Service regularly denied Tribal of the hardest working members of the for bringing the statements forward members’ claims for basic care and pre- Senate in the Indian Affairs Com- from Chairwoman Torres. She has ventive services, such as mammo- mittee. She really brings what you every right to be concerned. grams, women’s health screenings, or talked about—a great bipartisan ap- The short answer to her question is, diabetes management care. proach to this. We look forward to yes, we don’t want to go back. Chair- Because of the chaos the Trump ad- doing more of that in the future. woman Torres is right to be concerned. ministration has created in the I also wish to say to the Presiding Of- Tribal leaders across the country want healthcare markets, this problem is ficer that he has shown bipartisanship to know how this bill would impact not being confronted, it is being exac- on opioids, and we have an epidemic. their members, but, as Senator erbated across the country. We have So we can show that there is biparti- HEITKAMP highlighted, Republican seen it in Nevada. Insurers are pulling sanship. leadership has not engaged in any out of the ACA exchanges in rural With that, Mr. President, I ask unan- meaningful Tribal consultation. areas, thanks to the uncertainty these imous consent for myself and Senator I know that is something that con- continued efforts to repeal the ACA, CORTEZ MASTO to engage in a colloquy cerns you a lot. Working with you on such as Graham-Cassidy, are creating and then yield to her. our committee, you always raise that in the healthcare market. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without issue—Tribal consultation and how im- Democrats are ready to work with objection, it is so ordered. portant that is. That did not occur be- Republicans to fix the problems with Ms. CORTEZ MASTO. Mr. President, fore these proposals were put before us. the Affordable Care Act. We want to I thank Senator UDALL, the ranking Repeal of the Medicaid expansion provide certainty that brings insurers member of the Senate Indian Affairs would pull millions of dollars out of back into the health insurance market- Committee. I am honored to be work- critical funding at the Indian Health places, lower premiums and prescrip- ing with him on that committee in a Service and would return the entire tion drug prices, and improve bipartisan way, as he talked about. system to life or limb. Medicaid fund- healthcare. We can’t kick millions of I am also very honored to represent ing at IHS has increased by over $240 people—including the members of the the great State of Nevada, a State that million since the Affordable Care Act Walker River Paiute Tribe and the 27 is home to civically active Tribes. Ne- passage, and that is an increase of 43 other Tribes and community organiza- vada’s Tribal communities deal with percent. tions in the State of Nevada—off of many of the same challenges that Under the ACA, Tribes and urban In- their healthcare. No one in this country should be plague Native communities throughout dian health facilities have started of- forced to choose between paying their the United States. Indigenous people fering a much wider range of medical bills and putting food on their suffer from higher rates of poverty, ill- healthcare services to Native Ameri- table. All too often, our Tribal mem- ness, and substance abuse than the cans, such as OB–GYN, podiatry, and bers are confronted with that very general population. behavioral health. I have mentioned the old official IHS choice. I recently received this communica- I will not stop fighting to oppose motto several times: ‘‘Don’t get sick tion from the Walker River Paiute these efforts to take away the after June.’’ This was a motto because chairman, Amber Torres, about the im- healthcare of Native communities in the Indian Health Service would run portance of the Medicaid expansion for Nevada and millions more Americans out of money after June. So what peo- her community. Chairman Torres throughout our country. It is time we ple would say with regard to their wrote: work together. healthcare in Indian Country is ‘‘Don’t I feel that the impacts on cutting Medicaid I thank the vice chair. expansion for Nevada would be detrimental get sick after June’’—a pretty out- I yield the floor back. to the people. With this coverage we have rageous situation. In practical terms, Mr. UDALL. Thank you very much, I been able to obtain services for our male and that motto translated to exactly the say to Senator CORTEZ MASTO. Today, childless adult population. Our people have sort of healthcare rationing Chair- been able to obtain services that have not you can at least tell your chairwoman woman Torres described in her letter. that this bill has been withdrawn. been approved or do not qualify through In- Imagine living in that sort of dian Health Services. There is not going to be a further vote healthcare system, where diabetics are She then goes on to say: on it. But I would urge her—and I know told that help is only available once you know this well—we need to stay A large portion of our reservation is cov- their kidneys start to shut down, where ered by the expansion and have seen their vigilant. This can be brought up at any expectant mothers can’t access pre- time. It can be attached to a major health ailments being addressed in a timely natal care. manner due to alternative means of cov- piece of legislation moving forward. So erage. The reality is that Graham-Cassidy— urge her to continue this great advo- and we hope another proposal doesn’t cacy. We really appreciate your advo- She said: come forward like Graham-Cassidy; we We have seen our covered recipients per- cacy. know they buried that today—would I yield the floor. centage go from 20 percent to 45 percent, turn back the clock in Indian Country, with our numbers continuing to rise daily. If I suggest the absence of a quorum. Medicaid expansion is repealed, what is the taking us from this current era of Trib- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The alternative for these people . . . ? al healthcare innovation back to the clerk will call the roll. Historically Indian Health Services has days of life and limb. The assistant bill clerk proceeded to only been at a Medical Level Priority 1 for I thank Senator CORTEZ MASTO for call the roll. our service delivery area, which means her great advocacy for Native Ameri- Mr. NELSON. Mr. President, I ask bleeding, blind, broken or dying. Is this what cans. I know very well her work as unanimous consent that the order for we need to look forward to going back to? State attorney general. I know she the quorum call be rescinded. Chairman Torres’s question is one a worked with Tribes and wanted to try The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without lot of Native Americans are asking to work through problems rather than objection, it is so ordered. right now and a question I wish to pose litigate them all the time. HURRICANE RECOVERY EFFORTS to Ranking Member UDALL. I wanted to say to your chairwoman Mr. NELSON. Mr. President, I want The Federal Government has a sacred in Nevada that we really appreciate her to express my appreciation to the fel- trust and responsibility to the Native hard work on behalf of her Tribal mem- low Senators who have come up innu- communities of Nevada and throughout bers and other Tribes around the coun- merable times to express their regrets the country. I ask the vice chairman, try. for what has happened to Florida, as would rolling back Medicaid expansion I yield to the Senator from Nevada. we did with our colleagues from Texas in Nevada and other States like mine Ms. CORTEZ MASTO. I thank the with regard to the hurricane in Texas. result in pre-ACA Indian Health Serv- vice chair. Indeed, that was an unusual storm.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.030 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6119 The almost gold standard storm of the bottom of it, because in an emer- fellow citizens in the Virgin Islands Hurricane Andrew 25 years ago crossed gency situation like that, with people’s and Puerto Rico. the State of Florida in 4 hours. It was lives on the line, that should never I have talked to the Department of small in diameter compared to this happen again. Defense and said: Do everything that present hurricane that hit Florida and I am so proud of the people who you can do to assist. They are trying. I traveled right up the peninsula and, worked in our office so diligently. We talked to the FAA Administrator. therefore, covered up the entire State. had many of the employees here in the There is just the simple thing of being For the past few weeks, in my trav- Washington office go to Florida as eyes able to have instrument landings after eling all around, there was vast devas- and ears out there in the community so many of the radars got knocked out. tation either by the wind or by flood- before FEMA could get in to register Here is one example of just a practical ing. It is really hard to believe that a people for individual assistance be- problem facing the island, as if they State as large as ours could be vir- cause they couldn’t get through. If didn’t have enough practical problems tually covered up by a storm. There they had cell phones and the cell phone to begin with. was limited access to critical supplies service was spotty, they couldn’t get Look at the financial crisis. The like gasoline, and some places sus- through. We had people out there in Medicaid funds are going to run out. tained considerable damage. I remem- the field signing people up and getting That is before the hurricane. Look at ber down in the Keys, in the part that it to FEMA for individual assistance. the Zika crisis in Puerto Rico. That is hit the northeastern quadrant of the Our folks on the Florida staff as well before the hurricane. Think what it is eye wall, in Big Pine Key, I went to a as the Washington staff who went down like now. trailer park—a place of mobile homes— there did a wonderful job. They worked Here is an example. One of the radars and there was not one mobile home their fingers to the bone, and they on the top of a mountain gets taken that was sitting upright. They were all worked their hearts out. I want them out by the storm. All right, we need to turned on their sides or turned over on to know how much I appreciate that, get it back up there. We need a heli- their roofs. It was something that you serving the people of Florida in need. copter, and can get a helicopter to take just cannot believe—the force of the It is important that those of us in a radar up to place it there, because wind. public service respond with urgency the roads are impassable, but now The cost of rebuilding is going to be and purpose when somebody calls for there is cloud cover up in the moun- in the billions. We have passed a tem- help. That applies to all of us in public tain, and they can’t fly up. So one porary measure of $15 billion, and that service. I was really heartened when I problem compounds another, just so we is running out. We are going to have to saw all over Florida people helping can get instrument landings coming do something immediately for the Vir- people. I saw frail and elderly persons into Puerto Rico instead of the visual gin Islands and Puerto Rico, but there who had no place to go who were taken flight rules where we have to keep so is going to be a continuing cost in into a girl’s dormitory that had air much more distance from the planes. Texas and a huge cost in Florida. Many conditioning. They took care of them Just think if we end up having to have people have been dislocated, and they for 4 nights—eight frail, elderly an airlift in order to get food and sup- are unable to move back into their women. plies into Puerto Rico to keep them homes. I saw people helping people in Belle alive. Take people in the Florida Keys. Glade. Senator RUBIO and I went to Now is not the time to talk about the There is a tourism economy there, and Belle Glade together and served food. former financial problems or about the to have a tourism economy, you have We went and thanked those students in debt payments to bondholders. In a cri- to get the service personnel back in. that dorm near Immokalee. We sis, all that matters is saving lives and Well, they don’t have any homes. So thanked them together for people help- giving the people the resources they you have to bring in temporary housing people. need to get back on their feet. I am ing. In the Keys, there is one way in Now what we need to do is to take hopeful that our colleagues will see the and one way out. So that is going to that same effort that we saw in Texas urgency of the situation in Puerto Rico take some time. and that we have seen in Florida of and the U.S. Virgin Islands, in addition Then, sadly, in the tragedy of all people helping people and we have to to the ongoing troubles in Florida and, tragedies, 11 frail, elderly seniors died help the people of the Virgin Islands I expect, Texas, as well, which will con- in a hot box that was a nursing home and Puerto Rico. Over the weekend, tinue for some time. that had lost power, and the generators the full scale devastation of the third I hope we can work together to get that were required under the existing hurricane became clearer. The first was an aid package soon that helps all of law and existing regulations of the in Texas, the second was in Florida and those affected by the storms as soon as State of Florida were for putting the on up into the Southeast, and now the possible. Why? Because we are all lights back on. They were not genera- third one was not only hitting the Vir- Americans, and we need to act like it. tors that were sufficient in order to gin Islands, like the former one did, We need to come together and get on run the air conditioning systems. The but was just ripping up Puerto Rico. the long road to recovery. 11 senior citizens perished after there I have talked to the Governor, and he I yield the floor. were a number of calls that had been says the island faces a humanitarian The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. made to the Governor’s cell phone and crisis. The devastation over this past DAINES). The Senator from Ohio. calls that were made to Florida Power week has become a lot clearer to us as Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. President, I & Light. we start to see all of the devastation thank the Senator from Florida for the There is a criminal investigation on our TV screens. According to one re- report from his State and for his words that is underway that will answer some port, ‘‘Hurricane Maria whipped Puerto about the devastation in Puerto Rico. of the questions of why, as they pled Rico with Irma-level winds, drenched Our hearts go out to those in Florida, for help to come and get back on the the island with Harvey-level flooding, Texas, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto power, those calls were never answered. crippled communications, decimated Rico. We do have a responsibility to re- As a result, 11 people died. Something buildings and damaged the dam that spond quickly. They are responding to like that simply just shouldn’t happen puts the downstream residents at risk some devastating storms, especially in America, a country that has the re- of catastrophe.’’ when they are combined. sources and the compassion that our That is what our fellow Americans Our thanks also go to the first re- people have. are facing right now down in the Carib- sponders and the many volunteers, in- I want to state that, if people can’t bean. We need to act with urgency and cluding some in the State of Ohio and get through in an emergency like this purpose to aid Puerto Rico in their those from my hometown, who stepped to a Federal or State agency, I want time of need. I will have a chance to go forward to help the people in need. It is them to call me at my office at 407–872– down there on Sunday. I want to see it extraordinary. 7161 or on the WATS line at 888–671–4091 firsthand. I will continue to carry this Again, I look forward to working or to visit the website at message: The U.S. Congress has to with my colleagues to come up with billnelson.senate.gov. We will get to come to the aid of our friends and our additional assistance as we have done

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:20 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.031 S26SEPT1 S6120 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 already for some of the initial damage The path was not easy. In those first This month, as we recognize Tim’s 27 in Texas. There is so much more now few months, he worked 8 hours a day, years of public service, we also recog- that we must do. trading his government job for a reha- nize his incredible life journey and his TRIBUTE TO TIM O’NEILL bilitation facility. He worked with resilience in the face of adversity. Mr. President, I rise today to talk speech and physical therapists. And Strokes can affect people in a variety about one of our colleagues here in the with Ginny at his side, he put in over- of ways. In Tim’s case, I must say I Senate, who has an inspiring story and time every day. The extensive road to think it made him a stronger person. is celebrating an important anniver- recovery was daunting. Tim, a Har- Guided by his love for his wife Ginny sary this week. vard-educated lawyer in the middle of and their three children now and his I want to mention this week Door- a successful career, had to totally re- dedication to public service, Tim has keeper Tim O’Neill, who works with us learn things. He had to relearn how to had a career and a life worthy of cele- in the Senate and celebrates 27 years of read, and he had to relearn how to bration and recognition. Government service. He has been a write. So, Tim, today, this week, we all con- doorkeeper since 2010, during which I know Tim will agree with me that gratulate you on 27 years of honorable time I have had the pleasure of getting his wife Ginny was the unsung hero of service and wish you many more to to know him, as have many of my col- this story of recovery. come. leagues in the Senate. The O’Neills felt the support and gen- Thank you, Mr. President. His career has been a remarkable erosity of those around them. As I I yield the floor. journey. He started in the Senate as a mentioned, he worked at the Treasury The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- legislative director, and he later went Department. Those close to Tim—and ator from Connecticut. on to work in the White House—not some who hardly knew him at all—do- PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS during one Presidential administration nated their personal leave time to RECOVERY EFFORT but during four Presidential adminis- allow him to keep receiving a paycheck Mr. BLUMENTHAL. Mr. President, I trations. Tim worked for President during this recovery process, and the want to talk about the terrible human- Ronald Reagan, President George H.W. Treasury Department assured him that itarian crisis faced by the people of Bush, President Bill Clinton, and Presi- his job would be waiting when he was Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Is- dent George W. Bush. ready and able to return. lands, as well as the gulf coast and the He worked in the Department of Shortly after the stroke that he people of Florida, who have endured Treasury and at the Federal Housing wasn’t supposed to ever recover from, the fury and ferocity of Mother Nature Finance Board, eventually becoming Tim was home, self-mobile in a wheel- the chairman of that agency. After at its worst. chair. Soon he taught himself how to All of the people who live in Puerto that he went to the House of Rep- walk again. He never regained use of Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are resentatives, where he was senior legis- his right hand at all—one of his only Americans. First and foremost, they lative counsel for the Financial Serv- lasting handicaps to this day—so do ices Committee. We are happy to have are Americans who are going through you know what he did? He learned to one of the toughest periods of their Tim back here on the Senate side, write with his left hand. His resilience where he works today. lives, a time that no American wants and determination are really amazing. to face alone. Tim has had an impressive career He went back to work. His stroke was My message to the people of Puerto which I outlined, but the most amazing in January of 1989. Again, that Sunday, Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands: You thing about his career doesn’t reside in doctors didn’t think he would live are not alone. You are not alone in this what he has done but what he has over- through the night, and if he did, they humanitarian crisis. Congress will act. come. thought his life would be in a wheel- We will provide the kind of relief pack- One weekend in January of 1989, chair. In 1995, only 6 years later, he was age—food, medicine, whatever supplies when Tim was at the Treasury Depart- sworn in as a Director of the Federal are necessary not only to endure and ment, his life was altered forever. Housing Finance Board, a position he survive but to eventually thrive. Tim’s life had first changed on Friday was nominated for by President Clin- That is more than just rhetoric; that morning when he found out his wife ton. Later, in 2001, President George W. is a promise this Senate must make to Ginny was pregnant with their first Bush elevated him to Chairman of that our fellow Americans. These Americans child. But later that weekend, on a Board. In 2005, he became a senior leg- citizens in Puerto Rico, for example, Sunday, as he was putting on his shoes islative counsel to the House Financial to go jogging, at 34 years old, he suf- Services Committee, until his first re- have lost their homes, their businesses, fered a major stroke that affected two- tirement from government in 2007. He their livelihoods, and, some of them, thirds of his brain. had 20 years of service. loved ones. The doctors didn’t immediately tell He had had a good career and a recov- I come to this floor on this issue that Ginny how serious it was. Later she ery story that was respected by every- has preoccupied me and others because would find out that they did not be- one who knew about it. He could very it is truly a story of two storms. It is lieve he would live through the night, well have sat back and enjoyed that re- a tale of two catastrophes—one of them and, if he did, they believed his lasting tirement after those 20 years, but resulting from nature’s fury but the brain damage would mean he would Tim’s life is defined by purpose and other manmade. never walk again and never talk again. service and people. So after trying re- We know very visibly and dramati- Despite this very grim prognosis, tirement for a little while, Tim re- cally about the storm that directly hit Tim had a few things going for him. turned to the place he loved and the Puerto Rico, and it is called Maria. It First, there was an incredible positive people he knew, coming back here to was side-glanced by an earlier storm attitude that we all see in the Senate. the U.S. Senate as a doorkeeper in 2010. that missed it with its full fury, but Second, he was young and athletic, Tim’s extensive knowledge of Capitol Maria was a direct hit, leaving more which improved his chances of recov- Hill has benefited the U.S. Senate, and than 60,000 American citizens without ery. He also talks about his Irish deter- I will tell you what—his good spirits power, passing within miles of San mination, which made him resilient. have had an effect on countless Sen- Juan, home to 400,000 people. It was the And he had the knowledge of knowing ators, including me, countless members strongest storm to hit the island in 80 that Ginny was pregnant, and he was of our staff, and many visitors. His at- years. The winds tore off the trees and absolutely committed to being part of titude is infectious. He exemplifies the dumped more than 21⁄2 feet of rain on his daughter’s life. In fact, one of the power of positive thinking. He cer- the island. It razed houses there and on few things he said he remembered in tainly brightens my days, and I know the U.S. Virgin Islands, leaving a his initial stages of recovery was that he has inspired many. wasteland, crumpled structures, Ginny was pregnant and that he had a By the way, I just heard today that scarred concrete, shells of buildings, no daughter coming. And when he began he is also a leader among doorkeepers, electricity, and virtually no tele- regaining his speech, the first thing he including organizing periodic team- communications for most people. told Ginny was that he was going to rebuilding events at the Nats games with There are 3.4 million people in dire cover. his fellow doorkeepers. need of housing, food, water, medicine,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:20 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.032 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6121 diesel, gasoline—the necessities of life. water and shelter to lives that have be United States Circuit Judge for the There is a humanitarian crisis in Puer- been upended by this unforgiving Eighth Circuit. to Rico that requires an immediate and storm. All arms of the Federal Govern- CLOTURE MOTION unconditional response from Con- ment should be brought to bear to help Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I gress—not from just the Senate but our fellow citizens in Puerto Rico. send a cloture motion to the desk. from the House and from the President. This morning, I asked the Chairman The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- One area where the President had of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Joseph ture motion having been presented made an announcement today concerns Dunford, whether he would be ready, under rule XXII, the Chair directs the the potential matching amounts of willing, and able to help and provide clerk to read the motion. money that Puerto Rico and the U.S. additional assistance on behalf of the The bill clerk read as follows: Virgin Islands may have to provide. Department of Defense and the mili- CLOTURE MOTION There should be no match. There tary that he commands, and his un- should be no requirement that Puerto We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- equivocal response was yes. I commend ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands provide and thank him for that willingness to Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby a share of the money needed for re- help our fellow Americans. And he af- move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- building and recovery, and the Presi- firmed they are our fellow Americans, nation of Ralph R. Erickson, of North Da- dent should waive every bit of the re- they serve in our military, and they kota, to be United States Circuit Judge for quired matching share. Every dime, give back to communities in this coun- the Eighth Circuit. every nickel should be waived. try. Mitch McConnell, Orrin G. Hatch, James That leads me to talk about the sec- I am proud to represent 300,000 fellow Lankford, Jerry Moran, Johnny Isak- ond storm that has hit Puerto Rico. It son, John Thune, Thom Tillis, Shelley Americans who have come from Puerto Moore Capito, Mike Crapo, James E. is less visible and less recent. It is the Rico to Connecticut, and they, in turn, Risch, Mike Rounds, John Barrasso, result of a continually building set of reflect families there. I have spoken to John Cornyn, Chuck Grassley, John headwinds, a financial storm that had friends in Puerto Rico who described to Boozman, John Hoeven, Rob Portman. built over many years and has now re- me the dire images outside their win- f duced Puerto Rico to a state of near in- dow—similar to the images we have solvency, virtual bankruptcy—$74 bil- seen on national television. LEGISLATIVE SESSION lion in debt that would have been a se- Puerto Rico’s debt troubles are no se- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I vere storm for the people of Puerto cret to anybody here today. We have move to proceed to legislative session. Rico—not of their making—even with- discussed them, debated them, and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The out the hurricane that directly hit the failed to provide adequate assistance to question is on agreeing to the motion. island. meet them. We must work on two The motion was agreed to. We have an obligation as immediate tracks—the immediate recovery effort and dire with respect to rebuilding and in the face of this truly destructive f recovering from that second storm as hurricane but also the financial peril EXECUTIVE SESSION we do for the first. That is the reason that continues to put Puerto Rico’s I have been involved over a period of economy at risk, jobs in jeopardy, and many months in seeking to construct the island’s precarious financial posi- EXECUTIVE CALENDAR solutions, beginning with the tion as much at risk as its water and Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I PROMESA Act. And I intend—and I roads are. commit that I will continue seeking move to proceed to executive session to Puerto Rico’s infrastructure, energy, consider Calendar No. 251, Ajit Pai. that kind of solution, not just solu- water, schools, hospitals, transpor- tions to the buildings that have been The PRESIDING OFFICER. The tation, and other vital facilities nec- question is on agreeing to the motion. collapsed but to an economy that will essary for a functioning economy must collapse if we do not act. That is an im- The motion was agreed to. be rebuilt and made whole. That is our The PRESIDING OFFICER. The portant obligation that we share to fel- obligation. And the same is true of the low Americans, because this storm is clerk will report the nomination. Virgin Islands, where fellow Americans The bill clerk read the nomination of not due to their neglect or profligacy; are equally at risk, their safety in jeop- it is due to the tax laws and healthcare Ajit Varadaraj Pai, of Kansas, to be a ardy, and their economy potentially Member of the Federal Communica- laws that unfortunately failed to treat struggling. them fairly. tions Commission for a term of five We owe it to our fellow Americans years from July 1, 2016. Delay in meeting the astronomic and friends and families—there are CLOTURE MOTION costs of Hurricane Maria would be un- people in Connecticut who have friends acceptable and unconscionable. We and family there—and all of us who Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I must act promptly. I am hopeful that share a love for these islands that are send a cloture motion to the desk. it will be this week. I am talking to populated by patriotic Americans dedi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The clo- our leader, Senator SCHUMER, who has cated to our country. ture motion having been presented provided such strong vision and cour- Thank you. under rule XXII, the Chair directs the age in this area. He has been a cham- Mr. President, I yield the floor. clerk to read the motion. pion of Puerto Rico, and I hope he will The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- The bill clerk read as follows: help us craft a solution that is imme- jority leader. CLOTURE MOTION diate, vigorous, and prompt. f We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- The administration and Congress ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the must ensure as well that the Federal EXECUTIVE SESSION Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby Government plays a robust and respon- move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- sible role in funding and financing nation of Ajit Varadaraj Pai, of Kansas, to these recovery efforts so that no addi- EXECUTIVE CALENDAR be a Member of the Federal Communications Commission. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I tional damage is done to Puerto Rico’s Mitch McConnell, Joni Ernst, Thom already fragile economy. It is time to move to proceed to executive session to Tillis, Ben Sasse, Steve Daines, Mike forgo the miasma and bureaucratic rig- consider Calendar No. 312, Ralph Crapo, Jerry Moran, Tom Cotton, John marole of Federal redtape and financ- Erickson. Thune, Pat Roberts, James M. Inhofe, ing constraints, while flooding is still The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Johnny Isakson, John Cornyn, James an acute risk to life and health and re- question is on agreeing to the motion. Lankford, John Boozman, James E. covery efforts are just beginning. The motion was agreed to. Risch, Roger F. Wicker. The Puerto Rican Government must The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I be granted direct and instant tools to clerk will report the nomination. ask unanimous consent that the man- bring electricity back to the people, to The bill clerk read the nomination of datory quorum calls for the cloture feed the hungry, to provide drinking Ralph R. Erickson, of North Dakota, to motions be waived.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.033 S26SEPT1 S6122 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without brothers and our sisters. These Ameri- America, we must be there for our citi- objection, it is so ordered. cans deserve action from this body and zens. Yet I have read so many heart- f from the President of the United breaking stories. This shows the lack States. of urgency, the lack of being present, LEGISLATIVE SESSION Puerto Rico’s Governor has spoken the lack of being there when we are Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I directly to this crisis, noting that just needed. ask unanimous consent that the Sen- 40 percent of the residents of Puerto The Washington Post reported that ate resume legislative session. Rico have access to drinking water— when journalists were looking to go The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without meaning that 2 million American citi- and provide coverage—somehow jour- objection, it is so ordered. zens right now in Puerto Rico do not nalists are making it there to report on have access to clean drinking water. the extent of the damage—they were in f This is a serious crisis. a remote area of Puerto Rico when NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- More than this, we know the vast local residents saw them. Their first TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR majority of Puerto Rican residents response was simply to ask: Are you 2018—MOTION TO PROCEED—Con- still don’t have electricity. They are FEMA? Are you our government? Are tinued struggling to access food. They do not you coming to address the crisis? have basic means of communications Right now Americans are suffering. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. on the island, even to family here. Right now Americans are facing devas- JOHNSON). The Senator from New Jer- They can’t access bank accounts. Their tation and potentially death in these sey. sanitation systems have come to a hours and these days. PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS complete standstill. Access to basic I worry about this body now heading RECOVERY EFFORT medications—often urgently needed toward Thursday or Friday. How can Mr. BOOKER. Mr. President, I appre- medication and healthcare—is under we in good conscience go back to our ciate the words from all the colleagues threat. homes this weekend, knowing that I have seen. It is great to see bipartisan It is estimated that it is going to hundreds of thousands of American sentiments about dealing with the take months before power comes back, citizens in Puerto Rico and the Virgin most powerful hurricanes in recorded and recovery and rebuilding will take Islands may be homeless, may not have history. These hurricanes have left years for the islands. The next few shelter, may not have food, and may thousands of families homeless, de- weeks of recovery are critically impor- not have water? We cannot allow our stroying infrastructure, and leaving tant in the effort to save lives. fellow Americans to fall deeper into most people without power for the fore- I saw in Superstorm Sandy how it this crisis. seeable future. There are thousands of wasn’t just the hurricane itself that Nosotros somos gente de esperanza; individual stories of loss of life, of loss took lives; in fact, in my city, it was in somos gente de fe. Pero nuestra of possessions, of everything people the hours and days after that people historia siempre ha sido una que own, devastated by this storm. lost lives. We know that right now in conecta oraciones y palabras con What is important to me now is that Puerto Rico, every minute, every hour, acciones. Necesitamos actuar ahora. We are a people of hope; we are a peo- we turn these words into action. I am every day we wait to get critical aid— ple of faith. But our history has always grateful for the leadership we are see- necessary aid—our failure to act could been one of matching prayers and ing from the State of Texas and the mean the difference between life and words with actions. We must act now. State of Florida, but I want to focus in death or between grave suffering and on what is happening in Puerto Rico I yield the floor. relieving that suffering for hundreds of I suggest the absence of a quorum. and the Virgin Islands. We know, right thousands of people in Puerto Rico, as The PRESIDING OFFICER. The now, close to 31.5 million American well as the U.S. Virgin Islands. clerk will call the roll. citizens on these islands are on the We cannot afford to wait any longer The senior assistant legislative clerk brink of a humanitarian catastrophe, to better mobilize support and re- proceeded to call the roll. including the 3.4 million people who sources and help our fellow Americans Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, I ask live in Puerto Rico and over 100,000 in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands unanimous consent that the order for Americans on the U.S. Virgin Islands. right now. I hope that over time we are the quorum call be rescinded. The American citizens living in Puerto able to develop larger and more com- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Rico are part of a population that is prehensive aid packages, such as those objection, it is so ordered. bigger than the States of Wyoming, being discussed for survivors of the HEALTHCARE Vermont, North Dakota, and Alaska hurricanes in Florida and Texas. The Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, first combined, but they don’t have eight urgency we have in Puerto Rico right of all, I rise with a sigh of relief that Senators representing them in this now, the urgency we have to provide the decision has been made not to go body—working for them, fighting for vital security, energy, food, and health forward with a vote on a very divisive them. needs—we must answer that urgency healthcare bill. When Superstorm Sandy hit New Jer- with action. More importantly today, I rise to say sey, I know the constant work Senator Puerto Rico needs U.S. military, dis- this is really an opportunity for us to MENENDEZ, I, and my predecessor Sen- aster, and humanitarian assistance to work together to get something done— ator Frank Lautenberg put into work- maintain order and provide security, something very positive—as it relates ing on making sure our communities water, food, and fuel. Puerto Rico to healthcare costs and healthcare cov- could recover. We don’t have direct needs additional first responders, and erage for the people whom we all rep- Senators representing this incredible they need generators, emergency vehi- resent in our States and the people population of Americans. They don’t cles, and fuel. Also, Puerto Rico needs across the country. I am hopeful we have folks here every single day who to see that its government—the U.S. will see action soon, and I am hopeful are pressing for the interests of these Government—will respond the way we it will be this week when we can come Americans, for their safety, their secu- have for other disasters. together around very good work that is rity, their lives. We have to—the 100 of There cannot be a double standard being done in the Health, Education, us—step up to make sure that we are when it comes to Americans. We are Labor, and Pensions Committee with focusing on the interests of our fellow one country. We are one Nation. our two great leaders—Senator ALEX- Americans after what has been one of Whether it was Hurricane Sandy in ANDER and Senator MURRAY. the worst storms in recorded history. New Jersey and New York or Hurri- They have been holding a number of The Americans in Puerto Rico pay canes Harvey and Irma that ravaged committee meetings and forums, and I taxes. They love this country. They Texas and Florida, when our Nation am very pleased to have participated in serve in the military. In fact, they sees a natural disaster destroy the those. We have had great bipartisan serve in the military at a rate almost homes of thousands, take lives, knock participation in focusing on how to sta- twice as high as the general U.S. popu- down power—when a challenge like bilize the current insurance market- lation. These are patriots. They are our that comes to the United States of place. We know that has to be step one

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.039 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6123 if we are going to bring down rates, next few days and come together and even the lines themselves, and, in bring down costs, and create a path for- have a positive story, a good news many cases, the fuel, power, and crews ward so more insurance companies are story to tell at the end of this week to get to the work sites. participating in the current system. I about what we are able to do, working It will not work because, in many have great confidence that we can together, to be able to fix problems in cases, the government of Puerto Rico come together and get that done. It the healthcare system and to be able to still does not have a full assessment of needs to get done immediately because continue very important programs that the damage of the storm. While com- decisions are being made about rates provide healthcare for children and for munication in San Juan is severely this week, and I am hopeful we can families in local communities around limited, in most of the other areas of take action on that this week. the country. the big island and smaller islands, com- Mr. President, we have two other Thank you. munication is nonexistent. things that are very important—open I yield the floor. Something was brought to my atten- dates that are looming by the end of I suggest the absence of a quorum. tion firsthand yesterday when we vis- the week. One is for the Children’s The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ited one of the Coast Guard centers and Health Insurance Program, which cov- clerk will call the roll. watched. Much of the response they are ers 9 million American children across The legislative clerk proceeded to conducting there is limited to a paper the country. In Michigan, we call it call the roll. map on the wall with some sticky note MIChild. We have children today who Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, I ask pads and four landlines on which they can go to the doctor and parents who unanimous consent that the order for hope people can call in and get updates can take their children to the doctor the quorum call be rescinded. on what they are seeing in the field because of the MIChild Program. The The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without from a satellite phone. Hopefully, that Federal funding for that ends on Sep- objection, it is so ordered. has improved over the last 24 hours as tember 30, this weekend, if we do not PUERTO RICO RECOVERY EFFORT more Coast Guard vessels have come in take action. Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, I had the to support communications. But we This is another piece of good news be- opportunity yesterday, along with the still have large parts of Puerto Rico cause the distinguished chairman of Coast Guard and the Resident Commis- that have not communicated with the the Finance Committee, Senator sioner of Puerto Rico, JENNIFFER rest of the island, the government, or HATCH; the distinguished ranking GONZA´ LEZ, to visit San Juan, Puerto the outside world, for that matter, member, Senator WYDEN; others; and I Rico, to see firsthand some of the dev- going on to today. have introduced a bipartisan bill that astation that has impacted this U.S. There are also logistical challenges. In most of the 50 States—certainly in will extend that program for an addi- territory. I would summarize it by say- my home State of Florida, we saw the tional 5 years. It needs to get done this ing that what I saw were more than 3.5 largest power restoration effort in the week. It is a bipartisan effort, and I am million American citizens potentially history of the world. At least that is hopeful that can get done as well. on the verge of a serious and growing We have community health centers humanitarian crisis. what they are claiming. Literally, we in our country—our federally qualified There are a lot of reasons for this. saw hundreds of those bucket trucks community health centers—whose The first is that Puerto Rico has been from all over the United States—all 50 States and even Canada—coming in funding runs out, again, this weekend. in the eye of not one but three storms. with prearranged contracts and their Funding health centers has strong bi- The first was Hurricane Irma, which crews to restore power. Even with that partisan support. Senator ROY BLUNT impacted it a few weeks ago, followed dramatic level of response, there were and I, along with a total of 70 out of 100 by the devastation of Hurricane Maria, people without power until late this Members of the Senate, have joined in and preexisting these two things was a weekend, and there are still a couple a letter to continue the funding for very significant fiscal crisis that thousand people in Florida who have health centers. That needs to get done placed extraordinary constraints on the ability of the territory’s govern- no power. right away. In addition to that, there You can’t drive a convoy of trucks ment both to prepare for the storm and are what we call certain health extend- into Puerto Rico. They have to come in now to respond to it. ers or policies that are bipartisan that on a barge, and those barges take 7 Our traditional model of hurricane can be done together as well. days from Jacksonville and 5 days from response—one that, unfortunately, be- We see a picture of important efforts Miami, plus whatever time it takes to cause of numerous storms, I have come of stabilizing the insurance markets to travel and position those crews to get to know well as a resident of Florida— bring down costs, creating more oppor- there. You not only have to deliver the is that FEMA basically arrives in sup- tunity for competition in the market- crews, you have to deliver the supplies port of the State. When Florida gets places, continuing the Children’s in order to be able to restore power. Health Insurance Program, continuing hit by a storm and Texas gets hit by a What is the practical impact of not the funding for health centers, which storm, FEMA comes in to the State having power? Having no power is not are so critical in communities in every and tells the State: We are here to simply an inconvenience; for many one of our States, where people are get- help. Tell us where to go, tell us what people it is life and death. Imagine an ting the care they need at their local you need, and we will provide those re- area outside of San Juan where some- health centers. sources to the places you want. It one is a diabetic and depends on insulin Bringing those things together can works that way. The President issues that needs to be refrigerated. That be done. Now, it is a lot of work to do an emergency declaration, and it opens medicine has gone bad by now if they that in a couple of days, but these are up FEMA and other disaster relief, and haven’t run out. Imagine someone who bipartisan efforts that can be done to- then the State government directs that needs dialysis twice a week. It has been gether to show that in fact we can assistance and tells them: This is what longer than that since they have had come together and get things done. I we need, this is where we need it, and it. Imagine if someone needs chemo- know the people in Michigan want us this is what we can handle on our own. therapy if they have cancer. That is to do that. They want us to work to- This model will not work in Puerto not going to happen this week or next gether to get things done. They want Rico. It will not work foremost be- unless things change. us to focus on lowering costs for cause, as I stated earlier, the financial These are real challenges, and I raise healthcare and increasing coverage, and fiscal constraints have limited its them only because this is a disaster and they are anxious to see that we can capacity to build its own internal abil- that will require an intensity of effort come together to do that. ity to respond. on behalf of the Federal Government I am hopeful. It is only Tuesday, and They had just finished repairing the that you would not traditionally see in I am hopeful, with the remaining days damage from Irma a few weeks ago. So, a storm that impacts the mainland for of the week, given the bipartisanship literally, there are not nearly enough the reasons I have outlined—and many that is there and the agreements that basic things like those wooden poles to more. have been made on legislation already, hold up the electric lines or the trans- Now, the good news is, earlier today that we could go into high gear in the formers that are attached to them or you saw the White House engage even

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.041 S26SEPT1 S6124 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 more in terms of some of the things take it a number of days to get there. bill. This was going to be, I think, the they are doing. There are more Depart- The Federal Government has agreed to fourth time we had a vote to repeal the ment of Defense assets and, as a result a 100-percent Federal match. It usually Affordable Care Act. The House of Rep- of some restoration at the airport, the means the Federal Government paid a resentatives, over the last 7 years, has ability to land more planes more portion of it and the States pay the voted to repeal the Affordable Care Act quickly. So, again, more things are rest. The Federal Government, for the somewhere on the order of 67 times or coming in. The port opened fairly next 180 days, has agreed to 100 percent almost 70 times. They have gone back quickly, but the challenges remain. payment of these services, and that to their constituents year after year Even if today we could approve $10 will be critical because these restora- after year saying they voted to repeal billion in assistance and somehow fig- tion crews are going to want to know the Affordable Care Act; that it was a ured out a way to deliver it to Puerto how their costs are going to be paid if Socialist takeover of the United States Rico in the next 24 hours, they would they show up and begin to restore of America that they were trying to still be challenged to take it from the power. correct. They distorted what the Af- airport to the seaport and deliver it to I just think it is imperative that we fordable Care Act actually was. I am the places that need it the most be- don’t lose focus and don’t lose sight of not going to litigate that today. cause there are roads that are still not what is at hand because there are over It is clear, from my perspective in clear, because we still don’t have a full 3 million American citizens in danger. Colorado, whether people support the assessment of where the damage is and A number of them—perhaps in the Affordable Care Act or whether they where the need is most and, quite thousands—already have existing vul- don’t, it often turns on—not always— frankly, because there are probably nerabilities and are in severe danger of what party they are in or whether they roads and bridges in parts of Puerto losing their life and extraordinary supported President Obama or whether Rico that will collapse if one of these human suffering. they didn’t. I say not always because I big trucks drive over them. I thank my colleagues on both sides get a lot of email and have people in I say this because there is only one of the aisle who, throughout the day, my townhalls who aren’t Democrats entity in the world with the capacity have expressed a tremendous amount but who have preexisting conditions or to respond to all these various issues; of interest in wanting to know how whose children have preexisting condi- that is, the Federal Government of the they can be helpful and what they can tions who have health insurance for United States. Leveraging the power of do. I think the most important thing the first time as a result of the Afford- the Department of Defense and an as- we need to do now is to continue to able Care Act. sortment of other agencies, it remains drive the sense of urgency, to do all we Having said all that, whether they the only institution certainly in our can to bring to bear all of the resources support the Affordable Care Act or country—and probably in the world— the Federal Government can bring to whether they don’t, in my State—and I with a capacity to respond quickly and assist in this recovery. Then we will be bet it is true all over the United States effectively to the crisis at hand. able to work together on not just re- of America—people are deeply dissatis- While response to this storm will building Puerto Rico but helping her to fied with the way they interact and take a significant amount of patience, rebuild so she is stronger, more pros- their families interact and their small it will also take a significant amount perous, and more stable than ever. businesses interact with the American of urgency. For each day that goes by, With that, I yield the floor. healthcare system. They should be be- this crisis will get worse, not better. I I suggest the absence of a quorum. cause it doesn’t work very well. I am fear that if, in fact, there is not enough The PRESIDING OFFICER. The not talking about the Affordable Care urgency in the response, we will be clerk will call the roll. Act. I am talking about the Affordable talking about a very different set of The assistant bill clerk proceeded to Care Act, plus our healthcare system. stories in the days to come. call the roll. They are not the same thing, and we I hope I am wrong, with all of my Mr. BENNET. Mr. President, I ask should be addressing that. heart, but I fear that when communica- unanimous consent that the order for We should be addressing the costs in tion lines come back up and when we the quorum call be rescinded. our system. We should be addressing start getting more access to some of The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. the lack of transparency in our system. these areas that have been cut off, we RUBIO). Without objection, it is so or- We should be making sure people in the are going to start learning that the toll dered. richest country in the world have ac- and the impact of the storm is far Mr. BENNET. Mr. President, I am cess to health insurance, but they also worse than we had imagined. I pray not sure exactly what those words have to have access to quality care. In with all my heart that someone will mean, but I know it allows me to speak too many rural areas in Colorado—and watch this video on YouTube one day so I am glad to have done it. it is true all over America—there are and say: Oh, look, he was exaggerating. I thank you for your leadership on not enough primary care doctors, not It wasn’t that bad after all. I hope that the natural disasters we are having, enough primary care nurses. We are is what happens, but I fear it will not, particularly in Puerto Rico. There are not delivering healthcare in those and every day that goes by, it will only 3.4 million American citizens who are places very efficiently, and we are not get worse. living in conditions that nobody in this delivering it well enough, especially I don’t believe it is fair to say that country should have to tolerate. They when we know a lot of our veterans the response up to this point is because are without fuel, they are without live in those communities, and we some people don’t care or because they food, they are without water, they are know increasingly there is a profound haven’t paid enough attention to it. I without energy, and they are without opioid addiction that needs to be dealt honestly think it is just a challenge electricity. Some reports have said it with. that is unique and that requires us to is going to be months before that elec- After 7 years of saying repeal, repeal, respond to it in ways we wouldn’t tra- tricity is repaired. We have to do ev- repeal and then some years of saying ditionally respond, for the factors I erything we can in this body to make repeal and replace, we have now wasted have just pointed out. sure these American citizens are sup- 7 months of the American people’s time In most places on the mainland, if ported and that they can rebuild, and I on an entirely partisan effort to try to not all, the States have a certain ca- know the Presiding Officer feels the pass two bills that could not have been pacity internally to address this, but same way. We have to work together to more unresponsive to the critics of Puerto Rico, for the challenges I have do this. ObamaCare in Colorado, to say nothing just outlined—and particularly because HEALTHCARE of the supporters. So it is not a sur- of the storm that just passed—has al- Mr. President, that is not the reason prise to me that the last attempt ready had many of those resources de- I am coming to the floor today. I want- failed, and it is not a surprise to me pleted. ed to say a word about healthcare now that people weren’t even going to vote There is positive news today. The that the decision has been made, appar- on this bill because it is such a terrible USS Comfort, a ship that is a hospital ently, to not even have a vote on this bill that they didn’t want to vote on it. ship, is on its way, but again it will latest version of the repeal and replace So they have withdrawn it, which is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.048 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6125 good for the American people, except ementary and Secondary Education which we need to do, and then let’s ad- the people in Colorado are still facing Act, which used to be known as No dress healthcare in a bipartisan way, challenges in healthcare, including Child Left Behind. That bill actually and I will accept President Trump’s challenges from the Affordable Care got a unanimous vote in our com- goals for what it should look like. Let’s Act. There, I said it. I voted for it. mittee—a committee that has on it make sure everybody is covered at a There are things we should fix, and BERNIE SANDERS from Vermont and lower price, with higher quality. That one of those things is a problem that is RAND PAUL from Kentucky. That is is what he promised on the campaign common—I heard both Members of the quite an achievement. trail, and we have the opportunity to Republican Party on the Finance Com- So I have absolute confidence in their deliver that if we are willing to work in mittee and Democrats on the Finance ability to deal with this set of issues a bipartisan way. Committee yesterday at the hearing related to this 7 percent of our popu- I know that is what people in Colo- talk about it—which is the problem lation. And I hope that bipartisan proc- rado want out of this place. They are that people have in the individual mar- ess will then become a model or a foun- so tired of the Affordable Care Act ket affording insurance. They say to dation for the work we need to do on being litigated in this way, and it is me, as somebody who voted for the Af- healthcare going forward. We have to clear that the repeal effort has failed. fordable Care Act: Hey, Michael. You turn the page on the last 7 years or 8 But that is not enough. We have to have required us to buy something—in- years of these repeal votes. continue to fix the system. And I wish surance because of the individual man- From my perspective, having failed LAMAR ALEXANDER and PATTY MURRAY date—that in my area is too expensive to repeal, the answer can’t be to say: all the best as we try to do this in the because there is not enough competi- We will not help you fix the Affordable HELP Committee, and then I hope tion of insurers, and the deductible is Care Act because if we participate in Democrats and Republicans will sup- so high it is of no use to me and my the process to fix the Affordable Care port that effort on this floor, and we family. Why would you make me buy Act, it somehow legitimizes the Afford- can actually do something useful, after something like that? able Care Act. all of these years, for the American I think that is a completely legiti- You should not hold the position that people and their families and their mate criticism of the bill. It is impor- if you fail to repeal, you can’t fix it. If small businesses. tant to recognize that when we are you are going to repeal it, repeal it. With that, Mr. President, I yield the talking about this group of people who And I think we know where that has floor. are very important, it is 7 percent of gone. If you are not going to repeal it, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the population that is covered in Amer- you better be part of fixing it, or you ator from Minnesota. Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I ica—7 percent. Ninety three percent of are going to own the problem. the people are getting their insurance There are a lot of people on this side first rise today to thank my colleague someplace else—from their employer, who want to address that issue, and I for his comments. I am very pleased from Medicare, from Medicaid. This is believe there are a lot of Republicans that this process may now move for- 7 percent we are talking about. who want to address that issue. We are ward—the one that was stymied be- By the way, the issue around that 7 now out of excuses for why we can’t do cause of a bill that, as my friend from Colorado just pointed out, would kick percent—not the people—the issue it because Graham-Cassidy has been millions of people off of healthcare, around that 7 percent, that is what has pulled, as it should have been because jack up their premiums, and really was consumed our politics for the last 7 that bill, far from stabilizing our insur- an effort to pass the buck to the States years. It is not how to make it less ex- ance system, would have actually made without the bucks. I think that is one pensive for 100 percent of the American it worse, would have injected even of the reasons we saw our Republican people, not how to make it more trans- more volatility. Governors in Nevada and in Ohio op- parent for 100 percent of the American Sometimes people say: Well, don’t posing this effort. I thank him for his people, more predictable for 100 percent you think there is already volatility in leadership on the relevant committees of the American people but what are the system? My answer to that is yes, and his passion for this issue. we going to do to cover 7 percent. Of I do. That is why we have to fix it. The I would agree with him that people in those, the folks who aren’t getting sub- last thing we need to do is make it my State, the State of Minnesota, just sidies, are about 1 percent of people more volatile. The last thing we need like the State of Colorado—we have a who are insured in America. I say that to do is make matters worse. We lot of independent sorts in both our not to diminish those people at all be- should stabilize it, based on the bipar- States, and they want to see us get cause they are struggling—and I meet tisan testimony we have had in the things done. We now have the oppor- them all the time in my State—I say it HELP Committee. tunity to do that. to show just how small that set of The other thing it does—and the Sen- Mr. BENNET. Mr. President, might I issues is and how easily they could be ator from Minnesota is here, so I am interrupt? resolved by the U.S. Congress if we going to stop—the other thing it does Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Is there a ques- could work together instead of having is it throws millions of people off of in- tion? this pitched battle about healthcare, surance. This is not a healthcare bill. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- instead of calling each other names and It is not a healthcare bill; it is ‘‘we are ator from Colorado. Bolshevik takeover and all the rest. going to take your healthcare away’’ Mr. BENNET. I want to observe—I Fortunately, there is a solution that bill. It couldn’t be sustained in front of don’t know how to phrase this ques- is being worked on not in the Finance the American people. They wouldn’t tion, but the Senator from Minnesota Committee but in the Health, Edu- even vote on it because they knew how made such an excellent point about cation, Labor, and Pensions Com- bad it was. We had no hearings before dropping this on the States. I hadn’t mittee. The two leaders of that com- yesterday’s Finance Committee. It is made that point. That was one of the mittee—LAMAR ALEXANDER, who is the like watching ‘‘Veep.’’ It is not the way things that came up over and over Republican chair, and PATTY MURRAY, the government ought to work. So they again in the Finance Committee hear- who is the Democratic ranking mem- have an excuse for a hearing. They de- ing, was that in the name of fed- ber, are among two of the finest legis- cide to have the hearing. The Congres- eralism, we were basically imposing on lators in this body. Time after time sional Budget Office report, which we all of the States the obligation to de- after time, even when Washington has should have had months to look at, if cide that they had to reinvent their not worked, they have managed to lead not weeks, comes out in the middle of healthcare system over the next 2 that committee to what LAMAR ALEX- the hearing and tells us that millions years whether that was something they ANDER refers to as a result. It has come of people are going to lose their health wanted to do or not. I am glad the Sen- to the floor after going through a proc- insurance as a result of this bill—flying ator raised that. I also want to thank ess in our committee, an amendment completely in the face of President her for her leadership. process. It has come to the floor for an Trump’s promises. I yield the floor. amendment process, whether we were Let’s get this short-term thing done, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- reforming the FDA or rewriting the El- let’s stabilize the individual market, ator from Minnesota.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.049 S26SEPT1 S6126 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Thank you. The answer is, among those cities, signed on now. The United States has As we wait for those bipartisan nego- Los Angeles, CA. You may have seen withdrawn or expressed its intention to tiations—and we hope we will get this in the news. After a heat wave and withdraw, but it will not actually go something soon, because I have seen re- recordbreaking temperatures, Mayor off the Paris accord until the year 2020. insurance be a positive force in my Eric Garcetti announced plans to cut So there is just one country, and that State for bringing some of the rates the average temperature in L.A. by 3 is also true. down in the exchange. The average for degrees Fahrenheit over the next two It is true that solar power has in- the preliminary rates was 20 percent decades. creased 43 times in a 7-year period. We when our Republican legislature joined One of the keys to doing this is to certainly know climate disruption does with our Democratic Governor to get coat the city’s roads in something not cause hurricanes, but we also know this passed—20 percent reduction. We called CoolSeal, which is a light-col- the hotter temperature of the ocean would like to see that rolled out on a ored paint. Originally, it was a paint causes the hurricanes we have to be national basis. that was developed by engineers for much more powerful and much more (The remarks of Ms. KLOBUCHAR per- military air bases so as to keep spy destructive. taining to the submission of S. Res. 268 planes cool while they were resting on In the days leading up to Harvey, the are printed in today’s RECORD under the tarmac. CoolSeal keeps streets and sea surface temperatures in Texas were ‘‘Submitted Resolutions.’’) parking lots 10 degrees cooler than 3 to 7 degrees Fahrenheit above aver- Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I does black asphalt. age. We saw this same phenomenon yield the floor. This is an interesting innovation, when Hurricane Sandy struck the At- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- and I am sure the work L.A. does will lantic coast, where temperatures were ator from Oregon. help create information for other cities 5 degrees or more above average. CLIMATE DISRUPTION because cities are heat islands. Because Let’s turn to question No. 5. Some Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, cli- of the asphalt, they are often much scientists say we need to invent a de- mate disruption is the seminal chal- hotter than the surrounding country- vice to pull carbon out of the air. lenge of our generation. It affects ev- side. Which of the following would accom- erything from our farms to our forests, OK. Question No. 3. In which State do plish that task? Would it be perma- to our fisheries. We see the impact 31 communities face an imminent frost, wind turbines, glaciers, or trees? from disappearing ice sheets and melt- threat of destruction from climate dis- We do not think of any of these as an ing permafrost and glaciers. We see it ruption? Is it 31 communities in Utah invention by humankind, but one of in the coral reefs. We see it in the mov- or in Michigan or in Alaska or in New these processes that exists currently in ing insect populations. We see it in the Hampshire? nature does have a big impact in pull- more powerful storms. The correct answer is Alaska. Alaska ing carbon out of the air. In response, communities across our is experiencing a tremendous increase The answer is D, trees. Of course, globe are transforming their energy in the vulnerability of towns, which is that is a process we see during which, economies. They are working on en- the result of melting ice sheets; there- every year, the carbon dioxide level in ergy efficiency, certainly—more effi- fore, the storms closer approach. There the air surges when the leaves come off cient appliances and a little more mile- are higher seas and more violent the trees and then decreases in the age in their cars. Yet many are also storms so we are seeing a real assault spring when the leaves are on the trees working to transform their energy on those ocean communities. For one because they start pulling more carbon economies from a fossil fuel energy community of 600 people, it is esti- dioxide out of the air. So we need a lot economy to a renewable energy econ- mated it would cost about $180 million more force in order to reduce carbon omy. How much do you know about the to relocate all of the residents. pollution. changes that are underway? Let’s find Meanwhile, the Trump administra- The challenge is, worldwide, we are out. tion is moving to dismantle climate not adding to our forests. We are, in Welcome to episode 5 of the Senate adaption programs, like the Denali fact, losing our forests. In 2015, we lost Climate Disruption Quiz. Here we go. Commission, which have provided Fed- about 47 percent more forested land Here is the first question. eral assistance to safeguard or relocate than we did in 2001. The rate of defor- This August, an electric 500 horse- communities that are at risk from ris- estation is actually increasing so we power Tesla Model X SUV raced a 740 ing sea levels, storms, and disappearing need to be doing the reverse. We need horsepower Lamborghini Aventador SV sea ice. to be ending deforestation and adding in a quarter-mile drag race. Who won? This takes us to question No. 4. Of forests. Unfortunately, that is not the Was it the 500 horsepower electric the following statements, which state- case. Tesla or the 740 horsepower ment is not true; that is, which of In 2015, we lost about 49 million acres Lamborghini? Was the race called off these four statements is false? Is it of forest around the world. We lost it or did they tie? that July 2017 was the second hottest because of wildfires, because of log- Take a moment. Feel free to lock in month on record? Is the false state- ging, and because of expanding agri- your answer. ment that only one country is not culture. That is about the size of Ne- The answer is, the Tesla won the signed on to the Paris climate agree- braska. Picture it. In a single year, we race. The Tesla won the race, despite ment? Is it statement C, that climate lost forests that were the size of Ne- the fact that it had far less horsepower. disruption played no part in the devas- braska. That is bad news in the fight In fact, it set a record for an SV in a tation of Hurricanes Harvey and Irma? against climate disruption because de- quarter mile. It beat the Lamborghini Is it statement D, that the United forestation accounts for more than 10 by about 500ths of a second. States is now producing 43 times as percent of global carbon dioxide emis- It just goes to help demonstrate the much solar energy as it did in 2007? sions, not to mention that forests play incredible torque and acceleration that Three statements are true, and one is an incredibly important role in sup- comes with electric power, and if you false. The false statement is statement porting diversified ecological systems have ever tried driving a Tesla and had C. It is, in fact, July 2017 that was the around the globe. it accelerate so fast that it pinned you second hottest month on record. In So there we have it—this week’s epi- against the back of the seat, you would fact, we had a recent period during sode 5 of the Senate Climate Disrup- know what I am talking about. which each month was the hottest tion Quiz. These are questions ripped OK. Let’s turn to question No. 2. month on record in the calendar year. right from the headlines. The facts on Taking a page from the white roof That extended for about 16 months in a the ground are changing rapidly as the movement, which city in America has row not so long ago. pace of climate disruption increases. begun painting its streets white in Then, indeed, only one country is not This is the single biggest test facing order to lower temperatures? Is it the signed on to the Paris climate agree- humankind. It is a test that calls on city of Phoenix, AZ? Is it Austin, TX? ment. That country is Syria, which is every one of us to respond. Is it Kansas City, MO, or perhaps Los in the grip of a ferocious civil war. It is simply a fact that the devasta- Angeles, CA? Nicaragua had not signed on, but it has tion we have witnessed recently in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.050 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6127 Houston, TX, is far more dramatic be- maternity care, contraception, and ington were untouchable, I would think cause of climate disruption and carbon other critical services women need will it would be providing healthcare to pollution. It is simply a fact that the be covered and bars women on Med- sick children, but apparently not. devastation we just witnessed in Flor- icaid from accessing Planned Parent- Each Republican healthcare bill in ida is far worse than the disruption and hood, which is the primary healthcare the House and Senate goes far beyond the devastation that would have oc- provider for millions of American just repealing the Affordable Care Act. curred otherwise. That is why we all women. We hear so much from the It essentially ends Medicaid as we have need to keep working to tackle this other side about the importance of known it since 1965, the year President challenge. The United States should be being able to choose your doctor. This Lyndon Johnson created the program. in the lead in taking on the seminal bill says that, if you have chosen a doc- Today, Medicaid covers 36 million chil- challenge of humankind in our generator at Planned Parenthood, too bad. It dren, including 5 million in California. tion. doesn’t matter how much you like that That is nearly half of all children in Thank you, Mr. President. doctor; you need to find someone else. this country. The program has always The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- The bill also takes us back to the been a partnership between the States ator from Texas. days of junk plans, when you could and the Federal Government. The Fed- f faithfully pay your premium and then eral Government has paid a fixed share MORNING BUSINESS discover you weren’t covered when you of all healthcare costs for Medicaid got sick. The Affordable Care Act re- beneficiaries. Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask quired all insurance companies to Republicans want to end that part- unanimous consent that the Senate be cover essential health benefits like nership. Their plan would place strict in a period of morning business, with cancer treatment, maternity care, pre- limits on Federal payments, with Senators permitted to speak therein scriptions, and mental health. Graham- States responsible for all costs above for up to 10 minutes each. that limit. We don’t have a full CBO The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Cassidy says States can waive that pro- score of this bill, so we don’t have the objection, it is so ordered. tection. Those items I described affect all exact numbers, but outside estimates f Americans, but as I said, this bill is of the total cuts in this bill show HEALTHCARE also a direct attack on California and States losing over $4 trillion over the Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I other Democratic States. When the Su- next two decades. Let me repeat that rise in strong opposition to the Repub- preme Court ruled that the Affordable figure: over $4 trillion of cuts to Med- lican healthcare bill known as Graham- Care Act couldn’t require States to ex- icaid and health insurance subsidies Cassidy. You would expect that Repub- pand Medicaid to cover more families, within a generation. licans’ fourth attempt to repeal the Af- some Republican States used that as a California alone would be required to fordable Care Act would be better than way to attack President Obama’s leg- pay $139 billion more between 2020 and the previous three. In fact, the opposite acy. Never mind that they were risking 2027, and over the next 20 years, it is true. This bill is the worst of the their own constituents’ lives, it was a would cost my State $800 billion. These four bills. political win for them. cuts would be backbreaking and force This is especially personal for me be- Now, Graham-Cassidy proposes tak- many States to make extremely hard cause the bill hurts California more ing Federal funds away from those choices. If California couldn’t come up than any other State. Before I get to States that did expand Medicaid and with tens of billions of dollars more this attack on my home State, I would give it to those that refused. In Cali- each year, millions of residents could like to list just a few of the many ways fornia alone, 4 million have health in- lose their Medicaid coverage. Califor- this bill harms millions of Americans surance today because my State de- nia’s Medicaid director said, ‘‘Nothing and puts countless lives at risk. cided to accept the Federal Govern- is safe—no population, no services.’’ This bill boots at least 32 million ment’s 90 percent contribution for a In July, I visited UCSF Benioff Chil- Americans off healthcare. There is no small 10 percent buy-in. Graham-Cas- dren’s Hospital in San Francisco. I met sugarcoating it; Graham-Cassidy cuts sidy would end that, pulling the rug with three mothers—Kristin, Sally, health insurance subsidies and slashes out from under those Californians. To and Nina. Their children—Maggie, Medicaid funding. That will mean say this is unconscionable is an under- Megan, and Drew—have struggled with fewer people with healthcare, plain and statement. extraordinary healthcare needs includ- simple. What is worse, the bill’s authors ing cerebral palsy, a congenital heart The bill ends guaranteed protections openly admit this is their strategy—to defect, and VATER syndrome, which is for those with preexisting conditions. redirect money from States like Cali- a set of complex birth defects. If it Anyone who says otherwise is not tell- fornia and New York to Republican weren’t for the first-class care they re- ing the truth. This bill says that States States. Senator CASSIDY said he is just ceived at Benioff, they wouldn’t have can allow insurance companies to trying to create ‘‘parity,’’ but the rea- survived. charge those with preexisting condi- son there isn’t parity is because Repub- These mothers are heroes. They have tions whatever they want. That means lican Governors and legislatures chose dedicated their lives to their children, an end to guaranteed coverage because to put politics over people’s health. doing all they can to ensure they lead people with health conditions would be States can choose at any time to opt- full, happy lives in the face of such sig- charged so much they wouldn’t be able in and receive the 90 percent match for nificant adversity. When I asked them to afford coverage. Arguments to the Medicaid expansion. Candidly, it is a how they and their children cope, Nina contrary are just wrong. revolting way to get a bill passed told me that you simply do your best This bill not only eliminates the The one part of this bill that is the to live the life you have. Medicaid expansion, it ends Medicaid same as past versions is the dire cuts All three of these families are middle as we have known it since 1965. The to Medicaid. This needs to be repeated: class. They are covered by employer- Medicaid expansion in the Affordable The only thing congressional Repub- sponsored private insurance, but Med- Care Act has meant 15 million more licans have agreed on throughout this icaid fills the significant gaps in cov- vulnerable Americans have gained in- entire process is that children, preg- erage. It covers in-home nurses to pro- surance. With those funds gone, they nant women, people with disabilities, vide around-the-clock care, as well as lose coverage. By radically changing and seniors in nursing homes get too first-rate medical equipment—services traditional Medicaid, States would much healthcare. that private insurance doesn’t cover. have to either cover hundreds of bil- For any of my colleagues who don’t Without in-home care, their children lions in additional costs or kick people realize the full extent of what Medicaid would have been placed in institutions off Medicaid. Again, fewer people with does for this country, allow me to ex- to ensure access to critical around-the- coverage, more lives at risk—these are plain. Gutting Medicaid would dev- clock care. facts, and they are indisputable. astate care for children, particularly If the Senate passes a bill that guts This bill is also devastating for wom- those with disabilities and complex Medicaid, mothers like these may not en’s health. It ends the guarantee that healthcare needs. If anything in Wash- be able to keep their children at home.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.053 S26SEPT1 S6128 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 That is a stunning indictment of a pass this bill, they are effectively eral actions to advance the implemen- party that proclaims its commitment abandoning families during the most tation of the Paris agreement. Fortu- to ‘‘family values.’’ One of the first painful and difficult times in their nately, the administration will be rep- areas where these cuts could show lives—telling them they are on their resented at this ministerial event, but themselves would be our country’s 220 own. I don’t believe that is the type of not at the same levels of power as most top-rate children’s hospitals. On aver- country we are, and it is up to Senate other countries participating. More- age, 60 percent of patients at these hos- Republicans to prove it. Stop advo- over, the U.S. is merely participating, pitals are covered by Medicaid. In some cating the dangerous repeal of the Af- when it would best serve of our inter- facilities, that number is as high as 80 fordable Care Act. Instead, let’s sta- ests to lead an engagement like this, percent. Those hospitals would inevi- bilize its funding and improve it so it where we could be steering the agenda, tably need to reduce services and con- works for all Americans. as opposed to ceding such leadership to solidate locations. Their ability to stay f China. open would be threatened. CLIMATE WEEK Increased global demand for clean en- You don’t need to take my word on ergy and the incorporation of carbon this point. The doctors and healthcare Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, today I accounting into world markets are professionals who run children’s hos- wish to voice my support for the eighth clear signals that the global economy pitals have made this point crystal annual Climate Week NYC, which took is on a low-carbon trajectory. If we clear. Dr. Michael Anderson, CEO of place in New York City from Sep- stand on the sidelines as these changes Benioff Children’s says, ‘‘Graham-Cas- tember 18 to 24. The 2017 Climate Week in international economics take sidy will be devastating to sick chil- brought together businesses, govern- shape—with Syria and Nicaragua as dren and their families. If Graham-Cas- ments, academics, civil society, and the only other nations not party to the sidy is implemented, children with other stakeholders to advance inter- agreement—we will be the loser. complex illnesses will be more likely to national action and cooperation to bet- Denying the scientific and real world have less funding available to them ter understand the science and chal- than what they actually need.’’ evidence of climate change is irrespon- lenges of climate change and to plan sible, and it is equally irresponsible to Dr. Paul Viviano, CEO of Children’s and execute actions to address this Hospital Los Angeles—one of the coun- deny or ignore the economic shifts oc- ever-evolving crisis facing humanity. curring around the world as a result of try’s top 10 children’s hospitals—said Climate Week traditionally occurs dur- previously that the cuts like this to international efforts to combat climate ing the U.N. General Assembly in sup- change. the Medicaid Program would ‘‘threat- port of enhanced dialogue to advance Climate change is real. The science is en’’ their programs and ‘‘put at risk international cooperation between na- indisputable. While hurricanes have al- life-saving services.’’ The reach of tions and, since 2015, to ensure the suc- ways happened this time of year over these cuts would extend far beyond pa- cess of the Paris agreement. tients who rely on the Medicaid Pro- As the ranking member of the Senate the North Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico, gram. That is because the research and Foreign Relations Committee, I strong- changes in the global climate—because training of specialists at children’s ly believe climate diplomacy must be a of increased carbon emissions into the hospitals improves care for children top priority for U.S. foreign policy. Cli- atmosphere from human activity—have nationwide. If specialists aren’t avail- mate change poses an imminent and created warmer atmospheric and sur- able or are never trained, that hurts all long-term threat to not only our na- face water conditions that are increas- children. Todd Suntrapak, CEO of Val- tional security and economic success, ing the likelihood of intensely powerful ley Children’s in Madera, CA, told me but also the long-lasting prosperity of hurricanes. that gutting Medicaid ‘‘threatens the this country. Addressing this crisis re- We have seen the destruction caused very viability of pediatric health care quires collective action and coopera- by Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria in this country.’’ tion by local and national representa- and the devastating effects they have Gutting Medicaid also threatens the tives, small and large businesses, and brought to millions of Americans. My wide range of supplemental services thoughts and prayers go out to all like speech and physical therapy that every one of us. If the U.S. is to maintain our status as the world’s super- those affected. First and foremost, our allow children with disabilities to country must assist and provide relief thrive. Many of the letters and calls I power, it is in our best interest to lead the global effort to address the serious to those affected. That includes our have received in opposition to the bill citizens and their neighbors in the Car- have been from mothers advocating on challenges posed by climate change. When America leads, we not only pro- ibbean. behalf of their children with disabil- As we come together as a nation to ities because they know these cuts tect and enhance our own interests, but we have the unique ability to bring help survivors in need now, we must would hurt their families. also act to reduce future risks and pro- Beth from Davis, CA, has a son others along and help forge consensus, tect more people from becoming vic- named Patrick with Down syndrome. but regardless of whether the U.S. con- tims in the future. That means ac- Patrick also battled leukemia as a tinues to lead or if we retreat, as the knowledging the reality of climate child. Despite the challenges he has President’s decision to withdraw the change and acting to reduce pollution faced, Patrick will soon graduate from U.S. from the Paris agreement suggests that has been scientifically proven to high school. His mom expects him to he is interested in doing, the rest of the secure a job and live independently be- world has made it quite clear that they be changing our environment and caus- cause of the support he receives plan to press ahead with or without us. ing the increased intensity of extreme through California’s regional center That is a sad day for America’s glob- weather events like hurricanes, programs. al leadership. Moreover, it is foolish to droughts, and wildfires. Medicaid provides the vast majority believe that the collaborative policies In addition to the rises in sea levels, of the $2.5 billion in Federal funding and multilateral efforts around reduc- record-breaking droughts are plaguing that our 21 regional center programs ing global emissions will not affect the regions in the Mediterranean, Middle receive to facilitate job-training, phys- United States simply because we East, and East Africa. NASA’s ongoing ical therapy, and other supports for choose not to participate. research on climate change shows the those with disabilities. Beth wrote to For example, the Trump administra- significance of human-induced climate me that her family has ‘‘every reason tion refused to participate in the devel- change, threatening our national secu- to believe that Patrick will be a tax- opment of the G20’s ‘‘Hamburg Climate rity and our socioeconomic and diplo- paying Californian and we can’t wait!’’ and Energy Action Plan for Growth,’’ matic ties across the world. Reviewing Gutting Medicaid puts the services which outlines a global economic part- the evidence we are presented with, it that have allowed Patrick to be in a nership plan for a clean energy future. is clear the only way we can tackle cli- position to graduate from high school This week, Canada, the EU, and China mate change is through global leader- on the chopping block. are hosting a climate ministerial meet- ship and action based on science and I would like to close by reminding ing of 30 major and emerging econo- based on the urgency of preserving our my Republican colleagues that, if they mies in Montreal to develop multilat- way of life.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.036 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6129 Here at home, every city and State sort of action would not only benefit as a biological research aid at Walter bears some risk from the effects of cli- my home State of Maryland because of Reed Medical Hospital in Washington, mate change. Fortunately, many State its low coastal geography, but also DC. Upon returning to Maine, he began and local and private sector leaders States like New York and South Caro- an illustrious career in environmental recognize this reality. Despite the ab- lina. conservation, as a civil servant and sence of leadership from the Trump ad- According to the New York City De- leader of one of the largest land trusts ministration, these individuals and the partment of Environmental Protection, of the United States, the Forest Soci- States, localities, and businesses they Manhattan and the other boroughs ety of Maine. represent across many sectors are tak- have experienced a significant increase In his career as a civil servant, he led ing a stand against the national secu- in flooding events, attributable to local the acquisition and conservation of 250 rity threats posed by climate change. sea levels having risen an average of 1.2 coastal islands and headed Maine’s Even though the President’s actions inches per decade since 1900, a trend newly formed Endangered Species on the Paris agreement are demor- that will only worsen without decisive Group. With leadership, patience, and alizing, this by no means equals defeat action to stabilize Earth’s climate. perseverance, he worked with diverse for our Nation and the rest of the There is no doubt that adapting our in- partners to protect our coast and wild- world. frastructure to withstand the effects of life. In 1997, Alan became the first exec- One way to show other nations we climate change will provide substantial utive director of the Forest Society of are indeed committed to this global benefits to our communities and our Maine, FSM. During his tenure, the cause is to join them by building on economy. FSM grew from a one-person operation the progress we have made here in our We are fortunate that some corpora- into a national leader in forestland own country from the local to national tions such as the members of the Bev- conservation, helping to conserve over level. Domestic climate change and erage Industry Environmental Round- 1 million acres of forestland. Just as he clean energy policy, including substan- table, BIER, are stepping up to reduce did leading the Endangered Species tial investments in clean energy re- carbon emissions. BIER’s commitment Group, Alan achieved this success by search, development, and production, to reduce energy consumption and bet- bringing together diverse groups under have made the U.S. an incubator for inter manage water resources are impor- a common purpose of protecting our vestment and entrepreneurship. Cre- tant examples of how U.S. industry is forests. His notable conservation ating a robust domestic market helps demonstrating leadership in advancing achievements include the 20,000-acre companies develop credible track environmental sustainability and ad- Nicatous Lake easement, protecting 6 records, skilled workforces, and scal- dressing environmental challenges. miles of the beautiful Moosehead Lake able products to export around the More than 900 U.S. businesses support shore, the 329,000-acre West Branch world to a market hungry for clean en- keeping the U.S. in the Paris agree- Project, and the unprecedented 360,000- ergy solutions. This is where domestic ment, including more than 20 Fortune acre Moosehead Region conservation action intersects with U S. ‘‘climate di- 500 companies. American businesses easement. plomacy.’’ need the U.S. Government at the nego- In addition to his conservation work, We should look toward U.S. corpora- tiating table to represent their inter- Alan also authored two books, ‘‘Just tions that are shifting to cleaner tech- ests. Acting to prevent the worst ef- Loons: A Wildlife Watcher’s Guide,’’ nology as an illustration of our contin- fects of climate change holds tremen- 1998, and ‘‘Just Eagles: A Wildlife ued fight against climate change. U.S. dous economic and job growth opportu- Watchers Guide,’’ 2000. These books re- political leadership in innovation and nities for Maryland and our Nation. flect his passion for Maine’s outdoors technology combined with increased Such an ambitious global goal can only that embodied his life’s work. Alan will global demand for clean energy tech- be achieved through strategic action be remembered for his thoughtful lead- nology can help create trans- starting at the local level, supported ership, dedication, and passion. Above formational job growth opportunities by a Congress and President through all that, nothing exceeded his deep love across the United States. Each day we policy and political courage. for his family and his devotion to his dither on making the right political Fighting climate change is essential friends. Alan will be sorely missed by choices on clean energy is a day we to U.S. national security interests and all, and we owe him an enormous debt lose global clout to China, India, and to growing U.S. economic opportuni- of gratitude. other nations who are racing to fill the ties. Meanwhile, the world continues to f void our current retreat has created. look to us for leadership. I remain mo- As we look to be more resilient to tivated to join my colleagues and peo- TRIBUTE TO CATHY GLENN AND climate change, our global partners ple across the country to fight global DAVE AHART have already started to combat the climate change so that we can dem- Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, today I issues through innovation and adapta- onstrate our Nation’s commitment to want to honor the service of two out- tion. For example, Holland’s recent leading climate diplomacy and to standing individuals who have dedi- shift to innovate against flooding is a maintain the American private sector’s cated their careers to serving the good example of how other nations are strength in a changing global economy. American people. actively working to adapt to climate f Cathy Glenn and Dave Ahart have change and create financial opportuni- worked for nearly 30 years in the Sen- ties. REMEMBERING ALAN HUTCHINSON ate, many of which have been behind Holland’s shift to high-tech water Mr. KING. Mr. President, today we the scenes in the Senate Recording management systems will protect remember the life of Alan Hutchinson, Studio, ensuring that the public had against future flooding and scarcity of who passed away earlier this year at access to their elected leaders. freshwater sources. These are tech- the age of 70. As a beloved family man, Every day, Cathy and Dave showed nologies that the Dutch will likely ex- veteran, author, and tireless environ- up to work early and sometimes stayed port to other nations and regions at mental advocate, Alan dedicated his so late that they kept a cot tucked risk of flooding, so the Dutch will prof- life to preserving Maine’s most pre- away in the corner of their studio. it from the investments they have cious land, water, and wildlife. Future Together these two never missed a made and the experiences they have generations of Americans will enjoy all beat as they ran back and forth be- gained taking prudent measures to pro- that the Maine outdoors has to offer tween soundboards, helping Senators tect themselves against the effects of thanks in part to Alan’s dedication to from both parties connect with folks sea level rise. conservation. back home and communicate the latest This strategic measure sets an exam- Originally from Rhode Island, Alan happenings from the Nation’s Capital. ple for how the U.S. should work col- first came to Maine as a student at the Cathy and Dave worked as a team. lectively with businesses and local gov- University of Maine at Orono, where he This body could certainly learn a thing ernments to set aside funding earned his bachelor and master’s de- or two from them. proactively for future climate change grees in wildlife management. During They conducted their careers with mitigation and adaptation. Taking this the Vietnam war, he served his country professionalism and selfless service,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.031 S26SEPT1 S6130 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 going above and beyond to make our Schoenbaums built a prosperous res- serviced its first television station, jobs easier. taurant chain that would eventually be WPVI-TV in Philadelphia. Many of Cathy and Dave exemplify what it known as Shoney’s. The chain grew AccuWeather’s first customers are still means to serve. While civil service can into over 1,000 locations across dozens customers today. be a thankless profession, these two of States, employing many West Vir- In the 1980s, AccuWeather developed worked hard with grace and always ginians as it became an iconic Amer- the USA TODAY weather page and be- with a smile on their faces. ican brand. Not content to rest on their came the official weather forecaster at I can’t imagine what the Senate Re- success, Betty and Alex sought to share the World Fair in Kentucky. The com- cording Studio will be like without their good fortune with the world. pany also produced the weather maps them, but it is only fitting that Cathy The philanthropic gifts made by the for the Associated Press. and Dave ride into the sunset together. Schoenbaums are too numerous to list AccuWeather has been a global name Although many of us in the Senate individually. During Alex’s lifetime, he since the 1970s. Having first established are sad to see them trade in their head- and Betty established the Schoenbaum an international presence serving cus- phones for baseball caps and spend Fund at the Greater Kanawha Valley tomers in Canada, AccuWeather has ex- their afternoons watching ‘‘Veep’’ in- Foundation in Charleston, which was panded to providing services all around stead of committee hearings, we wish used to purchase sports and recreation the world for customers in locations them both the very best in a well-de- equipment for over 200 public schools such as South Asia, the Middle East served retirement. in the Kanawha Valley. They also es- and South America. Some of these Today I want the RECORD to show tablished the Schoenbaum Scholarship global services include providing fore- that Cathy Glenn and Dave Ahart made Foundation and the Schoenbaum Fam- casts to help with crop rotation and the Senate a better place, and I join all ily Foundation, which continues to forecasts for major ports, television of the Senators and staff to thank give to numerous organizations, in- stations, and newspapers. AccuWeather them for their incredible service. cluding the Boy Scouts of America, the currently serves over 43,000 Zip Codes f Children’s Home Society of West Vir- and over 1.5 billion people. ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS ginia, Mountaineer Food Bank, Moun- Dr. Myers and AccuWeather have taineer Habitat for Humanity, and the been recognized on the State and na- United Way of Kanawha Valley. tional level, receiving the Pennsyl- TRIBUTE TO CAROLINE CELLEY Since Alex’s passing, Betty has con- vania Association of Broadcasters ∑ Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I tinued to give, establishing the Pride in Pennsylvania Business Award, would like to take the opportunity to Schoenbaum Family Enrichment Cen- an Outstanding Job Generator Award express my appreciation to Caroline for ter, funding the construction of a Li- from the Chamber of Business and In- her hard work as an intern for the Sen- brary at the University of Charleston dustry of Centre County, PA, and five ate Republican Policy Committee. I and an undergraduate college of busi- Telly Awards. This year, AccuWeather recognize her efforts and contributions ness building at the Ohio State Univer- received an award as the No. 1 most ac- to my office as well as to the State of sity, and endowing scholarships at curate forecaster by ForecastWatch, an Wyoming. West Virginia University and the Ohio industry tracker. Dr. Myers was hon- Caroline is a native of Arizona. She is State University. ored as one of the 528 greatest entre- a graduate of Pepperdine University, Betty may be celebrating her 100th preneurs in American history with his where she studied integrated mar- birthday, but age has not slowed her biographical inclusion in Entrepreneur keting communication. She has dem- down. She continues to serve as the Magazine’s Encyclopedia of Entre- onstrated a strong work ethic, which president of the Schoenbaum Family preneurs. has made her an invaluable asset to Foundation and as a board member for In Centre County, PA, AccuWeather our office. The quality of her work is several foundations, committees, and employs over 400 people in a facility reflected in her great efforts over the organizations. She is also an active that houses 23 radio booths and a TV last several months. member of the Sarasota, FL, commu- studio with state-of-the-art equipment. I want to thank Caroline for the dedi- nity. According to Betty, there is great AccuWeather is also a family business, cation she has shown while working for joy and purpose to be had from a life of with Dr. Myers’ brothers serving as of- me and my staff It was a pleasure to giving to your fellow man. I believe I ficers—Barry Lee Myers is the CEO and have her as part of our team. I know speak for many when I say we can all Evan Myers is the COO and senior vice she will have continued success with benefit from her example. I wish her president. I wish AccuWeather the best all of her future endeavors. I wish her many more years of health and happi- and look forward to its continued suc- all my best on her next journey.∑ ness.∑ cess serving Pennsylvania and many ∑ f f others around the world. TRIBUTE TO BETTY SCHOENBAUM 55TH ANNIVERSARY OF f ∑ Mrs. CAPITO. Mr. President, I wish ACCUWEATHER REMEMBERING HAROLD DEAN to recognize a prolific philanthropist, ∑ Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, today I WILCOXSON successful businesswoman, and extraor- rise to celebrate the 55th anniversary ∑ Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, Living- dinary friend to the people of West Vir- of AccuWeather, the worldwide weath- ston, MT, lost an incredible member of ginia, Betty Frank Schoenbaum, on er service headquartered in State Col- the community on August 30 when Har- the occasion of her 100th birthday. lege, PA. old Dean Wilcoxson, son of Carl and Countless West Virginians, Americans, AccuWeather was founded by Dr. Joel Harriett Esther (Swingley) Wilcoxson, and people all over the world have ben- Myers, who received his Ph.D. from the passed away at age 94. Harold spent efited and continue to benefit from the Pennsylvania State University and is much of his life operating the family- endeavors of Betty and her late hus- currently a fellow of the American Me- owned business and Montana institu- band, Alex Schoenbaum. teorological Association. Dr. Myers got tion, Wilcoxson’s Ice Cream shop. Betty received her degree in com- his start weather forecasting for gas Wilcoxson’s Ice Cream has provided de- merce from the Ohio State University and utility companies in Pennsylvania. licious ice cream and fond memories in 1939; it was there that she met Alex, In the 1960s and 1970s, Dr. Myers taught for Montanans for over 100 years. and the two would begin their lifelong at Penn State and continued to expand Harold was born on April 15, 1923, and proclivity toward helping the under- his weather forecasting business to in- graduated from Park County High privileged. They would marry and clude highway departments, utility School in 1941. He pursued a certificate move to Charleston, WV, soon after, companies, construction companies, in electronics repair at Kinmen Busi- beginning a successful business career and ski resorts. ness University in Spokane, WA, and that would increase the impact of their The name ‘‘AccuWeather’’ was first used his electronics expertise for the generosity. used in 1971 to service the WARM-AM rest of his life. Starting with the Parkette Drive-In radio station in the Wilkes-Barre/ On September 15, 1942, Harold joined on Charleston’s West Side, the Scranton region. In 1972, AccuWeather the U.S. Navy and served aboard the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.045 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6131 U.S.S. Quincey as an electronics chief REMEMBERING BRYAN A. STRONG mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- during World War II. His ship was lo- ∑ fairs. Ms. DUCKWORTH. Mr. President, H.R. 2061. An act to reauthorize the North cated off of the French coast during today I wish to commemorate the life the D-Day invasion of Normandy in Korean Human Rights Act of 2004, and for of Bryan A. Strong, a caring husband, other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign 1944 and was anchored in Sagami Wan loving father, and dedicated police offi- Relations. during the signing of the Japanese In- cer with the Chicago Police Depart- f strument of Surrender in 1945. ment. Following his service, Harold re- Mr. Strong passed away from a heart MEASURES READ THE FIRST TIME turned to Montana to continue build- attack on March 27, 2014. We remember The following bill was read the first ing Wilcoxson’s Ice Cream. Amidst him for his compassion, sympathy, and time: long hours of building the family busi- love of life. As a policeman, Mr. Strong ness, Harold also enjoyed racecars. His put the needs of others above his own. H.R. 3354. An act making appropriations love and passion for fast cars lasted a He served his community with pride, for the Department of the Interior, environment, and related agencies for the fiscal year lifetime. selflessness, and honor. From cleaning cream cans as a boy ending September 30, 2018, and for other pur- Mr. Strong leaves an admirable leg- poses. to fixing electrical issues and man- acy in his community and family. His aging new plant projects, Harold en- son, Brian, and wife, Janette, remem- f sured Wilcoxson’s Ice Cream shop ber him as their adventurous best would continue in its legacy of gour- PRIVILEGED NOMINATION friend who filled their lives—and many REFERRED TO COMMITTEE met ice cream and service to Mon- others—with excitement and love. tanans for generations. Harold Dean I am grateful for Mr. Strong’s serv- On request by Senator PETERS, under Wilcoxson, beloved businessowner and ice. May his life and legacy serve as an the authority of S. Res. 116, 112th Con- mentor, brought much to the Living- inspiration to all. gress, the following nomination was re- ston community through his quiet Thank you.∑ ferred to the Committee on Homeland leadership and commitment to service Security and Governmental Affairs: f and will be missed by many.∑ Frederick M. Nutt, of Virginia, to be Con- f MESSAGES FROM THE HOUSE troller, Office of Federal Financial Manage- ment and Budget, vice David Arthur Mader. RECOGNIZING THE FOSTER At 11:06 a.m., a message from the GRANDPARENT PROGRAM House of Representatives, delivered by f ∑ Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, today I Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, announced that the House has passed the EXECUTIVE AND OTHER have the honor of recognizing the ad- COMMUNICATIONS ministrators and volunteers of the following bills, without amendment: Western Montana Area VI Agency on S. 810. An act to facilitate construction of The following communications were Aging Foster Grandparent Program. a bridge on certain property in Christian laid before the Senate, together with Based in the small town of Polson, MT, County, Missouri, and for other purposes. accompanying papers, reports, and doc- the program covers six mainly rural S. 1141. An act to ensure that the United uments, and were referred as indicated: States promotes the meaningful participa- EC–2891. A communication from the Acting western Montana counties and the tion of women in mediation and negotiation Administrator of the Specialty Crops Pro- area’s lone Indian reservation. Every processes seeking to prevent, mitigate, or re- gram, Agricultural Marketing Service, De- year, the lives of dozens of children solve violent conflict. across Montana are changed for the partment of Agriculture, transmitting, pur- The message further announced that suant to law, the report of a rule entitled better by the Foster Grandparent pro- the House has passed the following ‘‘Apricots Grown in Designated Counties in gram, and dozens of senior citizens are bills, in which it requests the concur- Washington; Decreased Assessment Rate’’ able to use their time and skills to rence of the Senate: (Docket No. AMS–SC–17–0033) received in the make a difference in the life of a child. Office of the President of the Senate on Sep- H.R. 1235. An act to require the Secretary tember 25, 2017; to the Committee on Agri- Foster grandparents are able to vol- of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition culture, Nutrition, and Forestry. unteer in many different settings, in- of the 60th Anniversary of the Naismith Me- EC–2892. A communication from the Sec- cluding schools, afterschool programs, morial Basketball Hall of Fame. retary of Defense, transmitting a report on Head Start programs, teen mentorship H.R. 2061. An act to reauthorize the North the approved retirement of Lieutenant Gen- Korean Human Rights Act of 2004, and for programs, and correctional facilities. eral Anthony J. Rock, United States Air other purposes. With many communities in western Force, and his advancement to the grade of H.R. 2519. An act to require the Secretary Montana facing high unemployment, as lieutenant general on the retired list; to the of the Treasury to mint commemorative well as meth and opioid drug crises, the Committee on Armed Services. coins in recognition of the 100th anniversary EC–2893. A communication from the Sec- Foster Grandparent program has a par- of The American Legion. retary of Defense, transmitting a report on ticular focus on at-risk children. Fos- H.R. 3819. An act to amend title 38, United the approved retirement of Lieutenant Gen- ter grandparents support children who States Code, to extend certain expiring pro- eral James B. Laster, United States Marine have been abused or neglected, provide visions of law administered by the Secretary Corps, and his advancement to the grade of of Veterans Affairs, and for other purposes. mentorship to teens, and help children lieutenant general on the retired list; to the with disabilities. ENROLLED BILL SIGNED Committee on Armed Services. This week, community members and At 12:33 p.m., a message from the EC–2894. A communication from the Chair- the Western Montana Area VI Agency House of Representatives, delivered by woman of the Nuclear Weapons Council, on Aging are gathering to honor foster Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- transmitting, pursuant to law, a report rel- grandparents. Included in that group is nounced that the Speaker has signed ative to the President’s budget requests for the National Nuclear Security Administra- Navy veteran Karl Paddock, who is re- the following enrolled bill: ceiving a special award for his service tion for fiscal year 2018; to the Committee on H.R. 3110. An act to amend the Financial Armed Services. to the program. Our communities need Stability Act of 2010 to modify the term of EC–2895. A communication from the Presi- more people like Karl and all of the the independent member of the Financial dent of the United States, transmitting, pur- foster grandparents who are willing to Stability Oversight Council. suant to law, a report relative to the step up and make a difference in the f issuance of an Executive Order to take fur- lives of our most precious resource: our ther steps with respect to the national emer- children. MEASURES REFERRED gency originally declared in Executive Order It is my hope that the Western Mon- The following bills were read the first 13466 of June 26, 2008, with respect to North Korea; to the Committee on Banking, Hous- tana Area VI Agency on Aging Foster and the second times by unanimous Grandparent Program will continue to ing, and Urban Affairs. consent, and referred as indicated: EC–2896. A communication from the Acting grow in the years to come. I congratu- H.R. 1235. An act to require the Secretary Assistant Secretary for Insular Affairs, De- late everyone involved in its success of the Treasury to mint coins in recognition partment of the Interior, transmitting, pur- and the difference it is making for the of the 60th Anniversary of the Naismith Me- suant to law, reports entitled ‘‘Report to the communities of western Montana.∑ morial Basketball Hall of Fame; to the Com- Congress: Compact Impact Analysis of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.033 S26SEPT1 S6132 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 2016 Report from Guam’’ and ‘‘Impact of the mitting, pursuant to law, a report entitled EC–2913. A communication from the Man- Compacts of Free Association on Guam FY ‘‘Report on the Ninth Review of the Backlog agement and Program Analyst, Federal (Fiscal Year) 2004 through FY 2016’’; to the of Postmarketing Requirements and Com- Aviation Administration, Department of Committee on Energy and Natural Re- mitments’’; to the Committee on Health, Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to sources. Education, Labor, and Pensions. law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- EC–2897. A communication from the Direc- EC–2905. A communication from the Acting ness Directives; Airbus Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– tor of Congressional Affairs, Nuclear Regu- Assistant Secretary for Legislation, Depart- AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2016–9518)) received latory Commission, transmitting, pursuant ment of Health and Human Services, trans- in the Office of the President of the Senate to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘NRC mitting, pursuant to law, a report entitled on September 25, 2017; to the Committee on Regulatory Issue Summary 2017–06: Nuclear ‘‘Assets for Independence Program - Status Commerce, Science, and Transportation. Regulatory Policy on Use of Combination at the Conclusion of the Sixteenth Year, Fis- EC–2914. A communication from the Man- Dosimetry Devices During Industrial Radio- cal Year 2015’’; to the Committee on Health, agement and Program Analyst, Federal graphic Operations’’ (RIS 2017–06) received in Education, Labor, and Pensions. Aviation Administration, Department of the Office of the President of the Senate on EC–2906. A communication from the Acting Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to September 25, 2017; to the Committee on En- Chief Privacy and Civil Liberties Officer, Of- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- vironment and Public Works. fice of Privacy and Civil Liberties, Depart- ness Directives; Airbus Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– EC–2898. A communication from the Direc- ment of Justice, transmitting, pursuant to AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2016–7264)) received tor of Congressional Affairs, Nuclear Reactor law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Privacy in the Office of the President of the Senate Regulation, Nuclear Regulatory Commis- Act of 1974; Implementation’’’ (CPCLO Order on September 25, 2017; to the Committee on sion, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- No. 008–2017) received during adjournment of Commerce, Science, and Transportation. port of a rule entitled ‘‘Final Safety Evalua- the Senate in the Office of the President of EC–2915. A communication from the Man- tion of Technical Specifications Task Force the Senate on September 21, 2017; to the agement and Program Analyst, Federal Traveler, TSTF–546, Revision 0, ‘Revise Committee on the Judiciary. Aviation Administration, Department of APRM Channel Adjustment Surveillance Re- EC–2907. A communication from the Dep- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to quirement’ ’’ (NUREG–1433 and NUREG–1434) uty General Counsel, Office of Investment law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- received in the Office of the President of the and Innovation, Small Business Administra- ness Directives; Airbus Defense and Space Senate on September 25, 2017; to the Com- tion, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- S.A. (Formerly Known as Construcciones mittee on Environment and Public Works. port of a rule entitled ‘‘Small Business In- Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– EC–2899. A communication from the Chief vestment Companies: Passive Business Ex- AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2016–9521)) received of the Publications and Regulations Branch, pansion and Technical Clarifications’’ in the Office of the President of the Senate (RIN3245–AG67) received in the Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Department of the on September 25, 2017; to the Committee on President of the Senate on September 19, Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Commerce, Science, and Transportation. report of a rule entitled ‘‘Relief for Victims 2017; to the Committee on the Judiciary. EC–2916. A communication from the Man- EC–2908. A communication from the Man- of Hurricane Irma’’ (Announcement 2017–13) agement and Program Analyst, Federal agement and Program Analyst, Federal received during adjournment of the Senate Aviation Administration, Department of Aviation Administration, Department of in the Office of the President of the Senate Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to on September 20, 2017; to the Committee on law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Finance. ness Directives; Airbus Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– ness Directives; Diamond Aircraft Industries EC–2900. A communication from the Chief AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2016–9517)) received GmbH Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket of the Publications and Regulations Branch, in the Office of the President of the Senate No. FAA–2017–0638)) received in the Office of Internal Revenue Service, Department of the the President of the Senate on September 25, on September 25, 2017; to the Committee on Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the 2017; to the Committee on Commerce, Commerce, Science, and Transportation. report of a rule entitled ‘‘Guidelines for Good EC–2917. A communication from the Man- Science, and Transportation. Faith Determinations of Qualifying Public EC–2909. A communication from the Man- agement and Program Analyst, Federal Charity Status’’ (Rev. Proc. 2017–53) received agement and Program Analyst, Federal Aviation Administration, Department of during adjournment of the Senate in the Of- Aviation Administration, Department of Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to fice of the President of the Senate on Sep- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- tember 20, 2017; to the Committee on Fi- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- ness Directives; The Boeing Company Air- nance. ness Directives; Viking Air Limited (Type planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– EC–2901. A communication from the Chief Certificate Previously Held by Bombardier, 2017–0503)) received in the Office of the Presi- of the Publications and Regulations Branch, Inc.; Canadair Limited) Airplanes’’ dent of the Senate on September 25, 2017; to Internal Revenue Service, Department of the ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2017–0474)) the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the received in the Office of the President of the Transportation. report of a rule entitled ‘‘Safe Harbor for In- Senate on September 25, 2017; to the Com- EC–2918. A communication from the Man- advertent Normalization Violations’’ (Rev. mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- agement and Program Analyst, Federal Proc. 2017–47) received during adjournment of tation. Aviation Administration, Department of the Senate in the Office of the President of EC–2910. A communication from the Man- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to the Senate on September 20, 2017; to the agement and Program Analyst, Federal law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Committee on Finance. Aviation Administration, Department of ness Directives; The Boeing Company Air- EC–2902. A communication from the Chief Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– of the Publications and Regulations Branch, law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- 2017–0337)) received in the Office of the Presi- Internal Revenue Service, Department of the ness Directives; Dassault Aviation Air- dent of the Senate on September 25, 2017; to Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– the Committee on Commerce, Science, and report of a rule entitled ‘‘Treatment of 2017–0502)) received in the Office of the Presi- Transportation. Amounts Paid to Section 170(c) Organiza- dent of the Senate on September 25, 2017; to EC–2919. A communication from the Man- tions under Employer Leave-Based Donation the Committee on Commerce, Science, and agement and Program Analyst, Federal Programs to Aid Victims of Hurricane and Transportation. Aviation Administration, Department of Tropical Storm Irma’’ (Notice 2017–52) re- EC–2911. A communication from the Man- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to ceived during adjournment of the Senate in agement and Program Analyst, Federal law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- the Office of the President of the Senate on Aviation Administration, Department of ness Directives; The Boeing Company Air- September 20, 2017; to the Committee on Fi- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– nance. law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- 2017–0128)) received in the Office of the Presi- EC–2903. A communication from the Direc- ness Directives; Dassault Aviation Air- dent of the Senate on September 25, 2017; to tor of Regulations and Policy Management planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Staff, Food and Drug Administration, De- 2017–0475)) received in the Office of the Presi- Transportation. partment of Health and Human Services, dent of the Senate on September 25, 2017; to EC–2920. A communication from the Man- transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of the Committee on Commerce, Science, and agement and Program Analyst, Federal a rule entitled ‘‘Listing of Color Additives Transportation. Aviation Administration, Department of Exempt From Certification; Spirulina Ex- EC–2912. A communication from the Man- Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to tract; Confirmation of Effective Date’’ ((21 agement and Program Analyst, Federal law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- CFR Part 73) (Docket No. FDA–2016–C–2570)) Aviation Administration, Department of ness Directives; The Boeing Company Air- received during adjournment of the Senate Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– in the Office of the President of the Senate law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- 2017–0559)) received in the Office of the Presi- on September 25, 2017; to the Committee on ness Directives; Airbus Airplanes’’ ((RIN2120– dent of the Senate on September 25, 2017; to Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. AA64) (Docket No. FAA–2017–0472)) received the Committee on Commerce, Science, and EC–2904. A communication from the Acting in the Office of the President of the Senate Transportation. Assistant Secretary for Legislation, Depart- on September 25, 2017; to the Committee on EC–2921. A communication from the Man- ment of Health and Human Services, trans- Commerce, Science, and Transportation. agement and Program Analyst, Federal

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.012 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6133 Aviation Administration, Department of Air Force nomination of Theresa A. Jones, Navy nominations beginning with Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to to be Major. Santiago A. Abadam II and ending with law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- Air Force nominations beginning with Jaime M. York, which nominations were re- ness Directives; The Boeing Company Air- James S. Shigekane and ending with Andrew ceived by the Senate and appeared in the planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– H. Stephan, which nominations were re- Congressional Record on September 5, 2017. 2017–0247)) received in the Office of the Presi- ceived by the Senate and appeared in the Navy nominations beginning with Sarah A. dent of the Senate on September 25, 2017; to Congressional Record on September 5, 2017. Aguero and ending with Dennis E. Westman, the Committee on Commerce, Science, and Air Force nominations beginning with which nominations were received by the Sen- Transportation. Marc Aalderink and ending with Joseph R. ate and appeared in the Congressional EC–2922. A communication from the Man- Zito, which nominations were received by Record on September 5, 2017. agement and Program Analyst, Federal the Senate and appeared in the Congres- Navy nominations beginning with Joko A. Aviation Administration, Department of sional Record on September 5, 2017. Abubakar and ending with Yui Y. Wong, Transportation, transmitting, pursuant to Air Force nominations beginning with Ian which nominations were received by the Sen- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Airworthi- S. Anderson and ending with Joan Diaz ate and appeared in the Congressional ness Directives; The Boeing Company Air- Zuniga, which nominations were received by Record on September 5, 2017. planes’’ ((RIN2120–AA64) (Docket No. FAA– the Senate and appeared in the Congres- Navy nominations beginning with Brooke 2016–7270)) received in the Office of the Presi- sional Record on September 5, 2017. T. Ahlstrom and ending with Mark C. War- dent of the Senate on September 25, 2017; to Air Force nominations beginning with Jen- ner, which nominations were received by the the Committee on Commerce, Science, and nifer L. Baker and ending with Dorian R. Senate and appeared in the Congressional Transportation. Williams, which nominations were received Record on September 5, 2017. by the Senate and appeared in the Congres- Navy nominations beginning with Miguel f sional Record on September 5, 2017. M. Alampay and ending with Zachary A. Zanfes, which nominations were received by REPORTS OF COMMITTEES Army nomination of Derrick C. Long, to be Colonel. the Senate and appeared in the Congres- The following reports of committees Army nomination of Natalie E. Vanatta, to sional Record on September 5, 2017. were submitted: be Lieutenant Colonel. By Mr. CORKER for the Committee on Army nomination of John F. Lopes, to be Foreign Relations. By Mr. HOEVEN, from the Committee on * Jon M. Huntsman, Jr., of Utah, to be Am- Indian Affairs, without amendment: Lieutenant Colonel. Army nomination of Terrance R. Latson, bassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary S. 607. A bill to establish a business incuba- of the United States of America to the Rus- tors program within the Department of the to be Lieutenant Colonel. Army nomination of Robert P. L. Bailey, sian Federation. Interior to promote economic development Nominee: Jon M. Huntsman, Jr. in Indian reservation communities (Rept. to be Major. Army nomination of Mariah C. Smith, to Post: US Ambassador to Russia. No. 115–163). Nominated: July 20, 2017. be Lieutenant Colonel. (The following is a list of all members of f Army nomination of Mark W. Canary, to my immediate family and their spouses. I be Major. have asked each of these persons to inform EXECUTIVE REPORTS OF Army nomination of David E. Meacher, to me of the pertinent contributions made by COMMITTEES be Colonel. them. To the best of my knowledge, the in- Army nomination of Christopher D. The following executive reports of formation contained in this report is com- McDevitt, to be Colonel. nominations were submitted: plete and accurate.) Army nominations beginning with Bruce Contributions, amount, date, and donee: By Mr. MCCAIN for the Committee on M. Coccoli and ending with Scott J. Sheri- Armed Services. 1. Self: None. dan, which nominations were received by the 2. Spouse: Mary Kaye Huntsman: $2,600, 4/ Army nomination of Col. Michael R. Senate and appeared in the Congressional 19/2014, Rob Wasinger. Fenzel, to be Brigadier General. Record on September 5, 2017. 3. Children and Spouses: Mary Anne Hunts- Air Force nomination of Maj. Gen. Jac- Army nominations beginning with Thomas man: None. Evan Morgan: $1,000, 2/11/2014, queline D. Van Ovost, to be Lieutenant Gen- A. Brooks and ending with D012739, which Seth Moulton. Abby Huntsman: None, Jeff eral. nominations were received by the Senate and Livingston: None, Elizabeth Huntsman: Army nomination of Brig. Gen. John E. appeared in the Congressional Record on None, Eduardo Hernandez: None, Jon M Cardwell, to be Major General. September 5, 2017. Huntsman III: None, Morgan McKenna: Army nomination of Col. Joseph D’Costa, Army nominations beginning with Edward None, William Huntsman: None, Gracie to be Brigadier General. A. Jarrett and ending with Casey T. Schober, Huntsman: None, Asha Huntsman: None. Army nomination of Maj. Gen. Michael A. which nominations were received by the Sen- 4. Parents: Karen Huntsman: $2,700, 6/5/2015, Bills, to be Lieutenant General. ate and appeared in the Congressional Ronald Wyden; $2,700, 6/5/2015, Ronald Wyden; Army nomination of Brig. Gen. Daniel J. Record on September 5, 2017. $2,500, 9/30/2014, Mia Love; Jon M. Huntsman, Christian, to be Major General. Army nominations beginning with Curtis Sr.: $100,000, 2/17/2015, Right to Rise USA; Army nomination of Brig. Gen. Kenneth H. J. Allen and ending with Bradley A. Wright, $2,700, 6/5/2015, Ronald Wyden; $2,700, 6/5/2015, Moore, to be Major General. which nominations were received by the Sen- Ronald Wyden; $2,500, 9/30/2014, Mia Love; Army nomination of Col. Matthew P. ate and appeared in the Congressional $5,000, 1/15/2013, HPAC; $2,600, 6/17/2013, Ga- Easley, to be Brigadier General. Record on September 5, 2017. briel Gomez. Army nomination of Col. Johnny R. Bass, Marine Corps nomination of Megan L. 5. Grandparents: Alonzo Blaine Hunts- to be Brigadier General. Bustin, to be Major. man—deceased; Sarah Kathleen Robison—de- Army nomination of Col. Tony L. Wright, Marine Corps nomination of Robert M. ceased; David Bruce Haight—deceased; Ruby to be Brigadier General. Barclay, to be Major. Olson—deceased. Air Force nominations beginning with Col. Navy nomination of Jason A. Tews, to be 6. Brothers and Spouses: Mark Huntsman, Jeffery D. Aebischer and ending with Col. Lieutenant Commander. None; Peter Huntsman, $2,700, 9/13/16, Doug- Daniel S. Yenchesky, which nominations Navy nomination of Christopher P. Carroll, las Owens; $2,700, 10/22/2015, Ronald Wyden; were received by the Senate and appeared in to be Lieutenant Commander. $2,700, 10/22/2015, Ronald Wyden; Brynn the Congressional Record on September 5, Navy nominations beginning with Gabriel Huntsman, $2,700, 10/22/2015, Ronald Wyden; 2017. Perez and ending with Eric R. Truemper, $2,700, 10/22/2015, Ronald Wyden; James Mr. MCCAIN. Mr. President, for the which nominations were received by the Sen- Huntsman, $2,700, 10/22/2015, Ronald Wyden; Committee on Armed Services I report ate and appeared in the Congressional $300, 10/22/2015, Ronald Wyden; $2,700, 6/27/2016, Record on September 5, 2017. favorably the following nomination Douglas Owens; Marianne Huntsman, $2,700, Navy nominations beginning with Anton 6/27/2016, Douglas Owens; David Huntsman, lists which were printed in the RECORDs A. Adam and ending with Ying P. Zhong, $2,700, 6/5/2015, Ronald Wyden; $2,700, 6/5/2015, on the dates indicated, and ask unani- which nominations were received by the Sen- Ronald Wyden; Michelle Huntsman, None; mous consent, to save the expense of ate and appeared in the Congressional Paul Huntsman, $2,300, 6/11/2015, Ronald reprinting on the Executive Calendar Record on September 5, 2017. Wyden; $2,700, 6/11/2015, Ronald Wyden; that these nominations lie at the Sec- Navy nominations beginning with Adri- Cheryl Huntsman, $2,300, 6/10/2015, Ronald retary’s desk for the information of enne T. Benton and ending with Aaron R. Wyden; $2,700, 6/10/2015, Ronald Wyden. Senators. Wesson, which nominations were received by 7. Sisters and Spouses: Christena Durham, the Senate and appeared in the Congres- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without None; Richard Durham, None; Jennifer sional Record on September 5, 2017. Parkin, None; David Parkin, None; Kathleen objection, it is so ordered. Navy nominations beginning with Huffman—deceased. Air Force nomination of Stephen J. Augus- Salahhudin A. Adenkhalif and ending with *Justin Hicks Siberell, of Maryland, a Ca- tine, to be Major. Victor T. F. Wong, which nominations were reer Member of the Senior Foreign Service, Air Force nomination of William J. Vit, received by the Senate and appeared in the Class of Minister-Counselor, to be Ambas- Jr., to be Major. Congressional Record on September 5, 2017. sador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.014 S26SEPT1 S6134 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 the United States of America to the King- By Mr. WHITEHOUSE: ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS dom of Bahrain. S. 1861. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- S. 198 Nominee: Justin Hicks Siberell. enue Code of 1986 to expand personal saving Post: and retirement savings coverage by enabling At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the (The following is a list of all members of employees not covered by qualifying retire- name of the Senator from Arkansas my immediate family and their spouses. I ment plans to save for retirement through (Mr. COTTON) was added as a cosponsor have asked each of these persons to inform automatic IRA arrangements, and for other of S. 198, a bill to require continued me of the pertinent contributions made by purposes; to the Committee on Finance. and enhanced annual reporting to Con- them. To the best of my knowledge, the in- By Mr. CORKER (for himself, Mr. formation contained in this report is com- gress in the Annual Report on Inter- MENENDEZ, Mr. RUBIO, and Mr. plete and accurate.) national Religious Freedom on anti-Se- CARDIN): Contributions, amount, date and donee: mitic incidents in Europe, the safety 1. Self: none. S. 1862. A bill to amend the Trafficking Victims Protection Act of 2000 to modify the and security of European Jewish com- 2. Spouse: Arnavaz Motiwalla Siberell: munities, and the efforts of the United none. criteria for determining whether countries 3. Children (3) and Spouses (N/A): Samuel are meeting the minimum standards for the States to partner with European gov- Emet Huston Siberell: none. Emeline elimination of human trafficking, and for ernments, the European Union, and Anahita Siberell: none. Benjamin Cyrus other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign civil society groups, to combat anti- Siberell: none. Relations. Semitism, and for other purposes. By Mr. LEE (for himself, Mr. HATCH, 4. Parents: George Edwin Peter Siberell— S. 253 deceased; Anne Hicks Siberell—none. and Mr. PAUL): 5. Grandparents: Reese Siberell—deceased; S. 1863. A bill to clarify that noncommer- At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the Nolene Siberell—deceased; Estill Hicks—de- cial species found entirely within the borders name of the Senator from Alaska (Ms. ceased; Bernice Cornell Hicks—deceased. of a single State are not in interstate com- MURKOWSKI) was added as a cosponsor 6. Brothers (2) and Spouses (2): Peter merce or subject to regulation under the En- of S. 253, a bill to amend title XVIII of Dickson Siberell, none; Marianne Monachino dangered Species Act of 1973 or any other the Social Security Act to repeal the Siberell, none; Brian Siberell, $200.00, 03/2017, provision of law enacted as an exercise of the Medicare outpatient rehabilitation DCCC; $120.00, 10/2016, Act Blue; $100.00, 02/ power of Congress to regulate interstate therapy caps. 2016, Act Blue; $500.00, 10/2015, Hillary for commerce; to the Committee on Environ- S. 281 America; $1500.00, 04/2015, Hillary for Amer- ment and Public Works. ica; $500.00, 08/2013, Booker for Senate; Patri- By Mr. DURBIN (for himself, Mr. At the request of Mr. LEE, the name cia Dryden, none. FRANKEN, and Mr. KING): of the Senator from Missouri (Mr. 7. Sisters and Spouses: N/A. S. 1864. A bill to expand the use of open BLUNT) was added as a cosponsor of S. *A. Wess Mitchell, of Virginia, to be an As- textbooks in order to achieve savings for stu- 281, a bill to amend the Immigration sistant Secretary of State (European and dents; to the Committee on Health, Edu- and Nationality Act to eliminate the Eurasian Affairs). cation, Labor, and Pensions. *J. Steven Dowd, of Florida, to be United per-country numerical limitation for By Mr. RUBIO (for himself, Mr. NEL- States Director of the African Development employment-based immigrants, to in- SON, and Mr. CORNYN): Bank for a term of five years. crease the per-country numerical limi- S. 1865. A bill to provide temporary direct *Nomination was reported with rec- hire authority for certain emergency re- tation for family-sponsored immi- ommendation that it be confirmed sub- sponse positions; to the Committee on grants, and for other purposes. ject to the nominee’s commitment to Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. S. 294 respond to requests to appear and tes- By Mr. ALEXANDER: At the request of Mr. NELSON, the tify before any duly constituted com- S. 1866. A bill to provide the Secretary of name of the Senator from Pennsyl- mittee of the Senate. Education with waiver authority for the re- vania (Mr. TOOMEY) was added as a co- (Nominations without an asterisk allocation rules and authority to extend the sponsor of S. 294, a bill to amend the were reported with the recommenda- deadline by which funds have to be reallocated in the campus-based aid programs Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act tion that they be confirmed.) under the Higher Education Act of 1965 due to clarify the Food and Drug Adminis- f to Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, and tration’s jurisdiction over certain tobacco products, and to protect jobs and INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND Hurricane Maria, to provide equitable services to children and teachers in private small businesses involved in the sale, JOINT RESOLUTIONS schools, and for other purposes; considered manufacturing and distribution of tra- The following bills and joint resolu- and passed. ditional and premium cigars. By Mr. DAINES (for himself, Mr. tions were introduced, read the first S. 298 MORAN, Mr. UDALL, and Mr. WARNER): and second times by unanimous con- At the request of Mr. TESTER, the sent, and referred as indicated: S. 1867. A bill to amend title 40, United States Code, to eliminate the sunset of cer- name of the Senator from California By Mrs. CAPITO (for herself, Mrs. tain provisions relating to information tech- (Ms. HARRIS) was added as a cosponsor MCCASKILL, Mr. MANCHIN, and Mr. nology, to amend the Carl Levin and Howard of S. 298, a bill to require Senate can- SHELBY): P. ‘‘Buck’’ McKeon National Defense Author- S. 1857. A bill to establish a compliance didates to file designations, state- ization Act for Fiscal Year 2015 to extend the deadline of May 15, 2023, for Step 2 emissions ments, and reports in electronic form. sunset relating to the Federal Data Center standards for new residential wood heaters, S. 349 Consolidation Initiative, and for other pur- new residential hydronic heaters, and forced- At the request of Ms. HARRIS, the poses; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- air furnaces; to the Committee on Environ- rity and Governmental Affairs. name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. ment and Public Works. By Mr. HEINRICH (for himself, Mr. MERKLEY) was added as a cosponsor of By Mr. WHITEHOUSE (for himself, Ms. HELLER, Mr. SCHATZ, Mr. FRANKEN, S. 349, a bill to clarify the rights of all WARREN, Mr. REED, Mr. MERKLEY, Mr. KING, Ms. HIRONO, Mrs. FEIN- persons who are held or detained at a and Mr. SANDERS): STEIN, and Mr. REED): S. 1858. A bill to amend the Truth in Lend- port of entry or at any detention facil- S. 1868. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- ing Act to empower the States to set the ity overseen by U.S. Customs and Bor- enue Code of 1986 to provide tax credits for maximum annual percentage rates applica- der Protection or U.S. Immigration energy storage technologies, and for other ble to consumer credit transactions, and for and Customs Enforcement. purposes; to the Committee on Finance. other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- S. 407 nance. f At the request of Mr. CRAPO, the By Mr. GARDNER (for himself, Mr. name of the Senator from Montana INHOFE, Mr. COTTON, Mr. JOHNSON, SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND AINES Mr. PORTMAN, Mr. FLAKE, Mr. BLUNT, SENATE RESOLUTIONS (Mr. D ) was added as a cosponsor of S. 407, a bill to amend the Internal Mr. BARRASSO, Mr. CRUZ, Mr. HELL- The following concurrent resolutions Revenue Code of 1986 to permanently ER, and Mr. SCOTT): and Senate resolutions were read, and S. 1859. A bill to extend the moratorium on extend the railroad track maintenance referred (or acted upon), as indicated: the annual fee on health insurance providers; credit. to the Committee on Finance. By Ms. KLOBUCHAR (for herself and S. 479 By Mr. INHOFE (for himself and Mr. Mr. CARDIN): At the request of Mr. BROWN, the HEINRICH): S. Res. 268. A resolution recognizing Sep- S. 1860. A bill to amend section 203 of the tember 26, 2017, as ‘‘National Voter Registra- name of the Senator from West Vir- Federal Power Act; to the Committee on En- tion Day’’; to the Committee on Rules and ginia (Mrs. CAPITO) was added as a co- ergy and Natural Resources. Administration. sponsor of S. 479, a bill to amend title

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.027 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6135 XVIII of the Social Security Act to (Mr. COTTON) was added as a cosponsor S. 1721 waive coinsurance under Medicare for of S. 1022, a bill to amend the Public At the request of Mr. UDALL, the colorectal cancer screening tests, re- Health Service Act to facilitate assign- name of the Senator from West Vir- gardless of whether therapeutic inter- ment of military trauma care providers ginia (Mrs. CAPITO) was added as a co- vention is required during the screen- to civilian trauma centers in order to sponsor of S. 1721, a bill to amend titles ing. maintain military trauma readiness 10 and 37, United States Code, to pro- S. 568 and to support such centers, and for vide compensation and credit for re- At the request of Mr. BROWN, the other purposes. tired pay purposes for maternity leave name of the Senator from Maine (Mr. S. 1028 taken by members of the reserve com- KING) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Ms. COLLINS, the ponents, and for other purposes. 568, a bill to amend title XVIII of the name of the Senator from New Hamp- S. 1730 Social Security Act to count a period shire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added as a co- At the request of Ms. COLLINS, the of receipt of outpatient observation sponsor of S. 1028, a bill to provide for names of the Senator from Alaska (Mr. services in a hospital toward satisfying the establishment and maintenance of SULLIVAN), the Senator from Massa- the 3-day inpatient hospital require- a Family Caregiving Strategy, and for chusetts (Ms. WARREN), the Senator ment for coverage of skilled nursing fa- other purposes. from West Virginia (Mrs. CAPITO) and cility services under Medicare. S. 1050 the Senator from Oregon (Mr. WYDEN) S. 718 At the request of Ms. DUCKWORTH, were added as cosponsors of S. 1730, a At the request of Mr. PETERS, the the name of the Senator from Oregon bill to implement policies to end pre- name of the Senator from Virginia (Mr. (Mr. MERKLEY) was added as a cospon- ventable maternal, newborn, and child KAINE) was added as a cosponsor of S. sor of S. 1050, a bill to award a Congres- deaths globally. 718, a bill to amend the Higher Edu- sional Gold Medal, collectively, to the S. 1742 cation Act of 1965 to make college af- Chinese-American Veterans of World fordable and accessible. At the request of Ms. STABENOW, the War II, in recognition of their dedi- names of the Senator from Hawaii (Ms. S. 816 cated service during World War II. At the request of Mr. CASEY, the HIRONO) and the Senator from Massa- S. 1064 name of the Senator from Minnesota chusetts (Mr. MARKEY) were added as At the request of Mr. UDALL, the (Mr. FRANKEN) was added as a cospon- cosponsors of S. 1742, a bill to amend names of the Senator from Washington sor of S. 816, a bill to amend the Inter- title XVIII of the Social Security Act (Mrs. MURRAY) and the Senator from nal Revenue Code of 1986 to allow roll- to provide for an option for any citizen Connecticut (Mr. BLUMENTHAL) were overs from 529 programs to ABLE ac- or permanent resident of the United added as cosponsors of S. 1064, a bill to counts. States age 55 to 64 to buy into Medi- amend the Richard B. Russell National S. 856 care. School Lunch Act to prohibit the stig- At the request of Mrs. MCCASKILL, S. 1774 the name of the Senator from Con- matization of children who are unable At the request of Mr. HATCH, the necticut (Mr. MURPHY) was added as a to pay for meals. name of the Senator from Arkansas cosponsor of S. 856, a bill to amend the S. 1568 (Mr. COTTON) was added as a cosponsor Higher Education Act of 1965 and the At the request of Mr. MARKEY, the of S. 1774, a bill to provide protections Jeanne Clery Disclosure of Campus Se- name of the Senator from Minnesota for workers with respect to their right curity Policy and Campus Crime Sta- (Mr. FRANKEN) was added as a cospon- to select or refrain from selecting rep- tistics Act to combat campus sexual sor of S. 1568, a bill to require the Sec- resentation by a labor organization. retary of the Treasury to mint coins in assault, and for other purposes. S. 1783 commemoration of President John F. S. 872 At the request of Ms. DUCKWORTH, At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, the Kennedy. the name of the Senator from Min- S. 1595 name of the Senator from New Hamp- nesota (Ms. KLOBUCHAR) was added as a shire (Ms. HASSAN) was added as a co- At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the cosponsor of S. 1783, a bill to amend the sponsor of S. 872, a bill to amend title names of the Senator from Iowa (Mrs. National Voter Registration Act of 1993 XVIII of the Social Security Act to ERNST), the Senator from New Jersey to require each State to implement a make permanent the extension of the (Mr. MENENDEZ) and the Senator from process under which individuals who Medicare-dependent hospital (MDH) North Dakota (Ms. HEITKAMP) were are 16 years of age may apply to reg- program and the increased payments added as cosponsors of S. 1595, a bill to ister to vote in elections for Federal of- under the Medicare low-volume hos- amend the Hizballah International Fi- fice in the State, to direct the Election pital program. nancing Prevention Act of 2015 to im- Assistance Commission to make grants S. 896 pose additional sanctions with respect to States to increase the involvement At the request of Mr. BURR, the name to Hizballah, and for other purposes. of minors in public election activities, of the Senator from Georgia (Mr. ISAK- S. 1706 and for other purposes. SON At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, his ) was added as a cosponsor of S. 896, S. 1808 a bill to permanently reauthorize the name was added as a cosponsor of S. 1706, a bill to prevent human health At the request of Ms. BALDWIN, the Land and Water Conservation Fund. names of the Senator from New York S. 911 threats posed by the consumption of (Mrs. GILLIBRAND) and the Senator At the request of Mr. CASEY, the equines raised in the United States. from New York (Mr. SCHUMER) were name of the Senator from New Jersey At the request of Mr. CARDIN, his added as cosponsors of S. 1808, a bill to (Mr. MENENDEZ) was added as a cospon- name was added as a cosponsor of S. extend temporarily the Federal Per- sor of S. 911, a bill to direct the Admin- 1706, supra. kins Loan program, and for other pur- istrator of the Federal Aviation Ad- S. 1718 ministration to issue an order with re- At the request of Mr. KENNEDY, the poses. spect to secondary cockpit barriers, name of the Senator from Arkansas S. 1827 and for other purposes. (Mr. COTTON) was added as a cosponsor At the request of Mr. HATCH, the S. 946 of S. 1718, a bill to authorize the mint- name of the Senator from Nevada (Mr. At the request of Mr. FLAKE, the ing of a coin in honor of the 75th anni- HELLER) was added as a cosponsor of S. name of the Senator from Massachu- versary of the end of World War II, and 1827, a bill to extend funding for the setts (Ms. WARREN) was added as a co- for other purposes. Children’s Health Insurance Program, sponsor of S. 946, a bill to require the S. 1719 and for other purposes. Secretary of Veterans Affairs to hire At the request of Mr. BLUNT, the S. 1854 additional Veterans Justice Outreach name of the Senator from Colorado At the request of Mr. GRAHAM, the Specialists to provide treatment court (Mr. GARDNER) was added as a cospon- name of the Senator from West Vir- services to justice-involved veterans, sor of S. 1719, a bill to eliminate duties ginia (Mr. MANCHIN) was added as a co- and for other purposes. on imports of recreational performance sponsor of S. 1854, a bill to amend chap- S. 1022 outerwear, to establish the Sustainable ter 44 of title 18, United States Code, to At the request of Mr. ISAKSON, the Textile and Apparel Research Fund, enhance penalties for theft of a firearm name of the Senator from Arkansas and for other purposes. from a Federal firearms licensee.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:44 Dec 14, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\SEPTEMBER\S26SE7.REC S26SE7 S6136 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017

S. RES. 263 the potential to save students more than a (F) a statement on consultation with rel- At the request of Mr. LEAHY, the billion dollars annually. evant faculty, including those engaged in the name of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. (6) Federal investment in expanding the creation of open educational resources, in use of open educational resources could sig- the development of the application. MERKLEY) was added as a cosponsor of nificantly lower college textbook costs and (d) SPECIAL CONSIDERATION.—In awarding S. Res. 263, a resolution expressing the reduce financial barriers to higher edu- grants under this section, the Secretary sense of the Senate that President cation, while making efficient use of tax- shall give special consideration to applica- Juan Manuel Santos has restructured payer funds. tions that demonstrate the greatest poten- and significantly strengthened the en- SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. tial to— vironmental sector and management In this Act: (1) achieve the highest level of savings for capacity of the Colombian Government (1) EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE.—The term students through sustainable expanded use ‘‘educational resource’’ means an edu- of open textbooks in postsecondary courses and has led the country to become a offered by the eligible entity; global environmental leader. cational material that can be used in postsecondary instruction, including textbooks (2) expand the use of open textbooks at in- S. RES. 266 and other written or audiovisual works. stitutions of higher education outside of the At the request of Mr. COONS, the (2) INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION.—The eligible entity; and name of the Senator from Illinois (Mr. term ‘‘institution of higher education’’ has (3) produce— DURBIN) was added as a cosponsor of S. the meaning given the term in section 101 of (A) the highest quality open textbooks; Res. 266, a resolution reaffirming the the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. (B) open textbooks that can be most easily 1001). utilized and adapted by faculty members at United States-Liberia partnership, institutions of higher education; calling for free, fair, and peaceful elec- (3) OPEN EDUCATIONAL RESOURCE.—The term ‘‘open educational resource’’ means an (C) open textbooks that correspond to the tions in Liberia in October 2017. educational resource that either resides in highest enrollment courses at institutions of S. RES. 267 the public domain or has been released under higher education; and At the request of Mr. HATCH, the an intellectual property license that permits (D) open textbooks created or adapted in names of the Senator from Montana its free use, reuse, modification, and sharing partnership with entities, including campus bookstores, that will assist in marketing and (Mr. DAINES) and the Senator from with others. (4) OPEN TEXTBOOK.—The term ‘‘open text- distribution of the open textbook. North Dakota (Mr. HOEVEN) were added book’’ means an open educational resource (e) USE OF FUNDS.—An eligible entity that as cosponsors of S. Res. 267, a resolu- or set of open educational resources that ei- receives a grant under this section shall use tion designating September 2017 as ther is a textbook or can be used in place of the grant funds to carry out any of the fol- ‘‘National Workforce Development a textbook for a postsecondary course at an lowing activities to expand the use of open Month’’. institution of higher education. textbooks: (1) Professional development for any fac- At the request of Mrs. FEINSTEIN, the (5) RELEVANT FACULTY.—The term ‘‘rel- name of the Senator from Michigan evant faculty’’ means both tenure track and ulty and staff members at institutions of contingent faculty members who may be in- higher education, including the search for (Ms. STABENOW) was added as a cospon- and review of open textbooks. sor of S. Res. 267, supra. volved in the creation of open educational resources or the use of open educational re- (2) Creation or adaptation of open edu- f sources created as part of the grant applica- cational resources, especially open text- tion. books. STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED (3) Development or improvement of tools BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS (6) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ means the Secretary of Education. and informational resources that support the By Mr. DURBIN (for himself, Mr. use of open textbooks, including accessible SEC. 4. GRANT PROGRAM. instructional materials for students with FRANKEN, and Mr. KING): (a) GRANTS AUTHORIZED.—From the disabilities. S. 1864. A bill to expand the use of amounts appropriated under subsection (i), (4) Research evaluating the efficacy of the the Secretary shall make grants, on a com- open textbooks in order to achieve sav- use of open textbooks for achieving savings petitive basis, to eligible entities to support ings for students; to the Committee on for students and the impact on instruction projects that expand the use of open text- Health, Education, Labor, and Pen- and student learning outcomes. books in order to achieve savings for stu- sions. dents while maintaining or improving in- (5) Partnerships with other entities, in- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask struction and student learning outcomes. cluding other institutions of higher edu- unanimous consent that the text of the (b) ELIGIBLE ENTITY.—In this section, the cation, for-profit organizations, or nonprofit organizations, to carry out any of the activi- bill be printed in the RECORD. term ‘‘eligible entity’’ means an institution There being no objection, the text of of higher education or group of institutions ties described in paragraphs (1) through (4). (f) LICENSE.—Educational resources cre- the bill was ordered to be printed in of higher education. (c) APPLICATIONS.— ated under subsection (e) shall be licensed the RECORD, as follows: (1) IN GENERAL.—Each eligible entity desir- under a nonexclusive, irrevocable license to S. 1864 ing a grant under this section, after con- the public to exercise any of the rights under Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- sultation with relevant faculty, shall submit copyright conditioned only on the require- resentatives of the United States of America in an application to the Secretary at such time, ment that attribution be given as directed by the copyright owner. Congress assembled, in such manner, and accompanied by such in- (g) ACCESS AND DISTRIBUTION.—The full and SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. formation as the Secretary may reasonably complete digital content of each educational This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Affordable require. resource created or adapted under subsection College Textbook Act’’. (2) CONTENTS.—Each application submitted (e) shall be made available free of charge to SEC. 2. FINDINGS. under paragraph (1) shall include a descrip- the public— Congress finds the following: tion of the project to be completed with (1) on an easily accessible and interoper- (1) The high cost of college textbooks con- grant funds and— able website, which shall be identified to the tinues to be a barrier for many students in (A) a plan for promoting and tracking the Secretary by the eligible entity; and achieving higher education. use of open textbooks in postsecondary (2) in a machine readable, digital format (2) According to the College Board, during courses offered by the eligible entity, includ- that anyone can directly download, edit with the 2016–2017 academic year, the average stu- ing an estimate of the projected savings that attribution, and redistribute. dent budget for college books and supplies at will be achieved for students; (h) REPORT.—Upon an eligible entity’s 4-year public institutions of higher edu- (B) a plan for evaluating, before creating completion of a project supported under this cation was $1,250. new open educational resources, whether ex- section, the eligible entity shall prepare and (3) The Government Accountability Office isting open educational resources could be submit a report to the Secretary regarding— found that new textbook prices increased 82 used or adapted for the same purpose; (1) the effectiveness of the project in ex- percent between 2002 and 2012 and that al- (C) a plan for quality review and review of panding the use of open textbooks and in though Federal efforts to increase price accuracy of any open educational resources achieving savings for students; transparency have provided students and to be created or adapted through the grant; (2) the impact of the project on expanding families with more and better information, (D) a plan for assessing the impact of open the use of open textbooks at institutions of more must be done to address rising costs. textbooks on instruction and student learn- higher education outside of the eligible enti- (4) The growth of the Internet has enabled ing outcomes at the eligible entity; ty; the creation and sharing of digital content, (E) a plan for disseminating information (3) educational resources created or adapt- including open educational resources that about the results of the project to institu- ed under the grant, including instructions on can be freely used by students, teachers, and tions of higher education outside of the eligi- where the public can access each educational members of the public. ble entity, including promoting the adoption resource under the terms of subsection (g); (5) According to the Student PIRGs, ex- of any open textbooks created or adapted (4) the impact of the project on instruction panded use of open educational resources has through the grant; and and student learning outcomes; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.020 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6137 (5) all project costs, including the value of S. 1866 higher education that is eligible under sub- any volunteer labor and institutional capital Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- paragraph (B) returning more than 10 per- used for the project. resentatives of the United States of America in cent of its allocation under such section 413D (i) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— Congress assembled, or 442 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 for There are authorized to be appropriated to SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. award year 2017–2018. carry out this section such sums as are nec- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Hurricanes (B) INSTITUTIONS ELIGIBLE FOR REALLOCA- essary for each of the 5 fiscal years suc- Harvey, Irma, and Maria Education Relief TION.—An institution of higher education is ceeding the fiscal year during which this Act Act of 2017’’. eligible under this subparagraph if the insti- is enacted. SEC. 2. ALLOCATION AND USE OF CAMPUS-BASED tution— SEC. 5. PRICE INFORMATION. HIGHER EDUCATION ASSISTANCE. (i) participates in the program for which Section 133(b) of the Higher Education Act (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: excess allocations are being reallocated; and of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1015b(b)) is amended— (1) AFFECTED AREA.—The term ‘‘affected (ii)(I) is located in an affected area; or (1) by striking paragraph (6); area’’ means an area for which the President (II) has enrolled or accepted for enrollment (2) by redesignating paragraphs (7), (8), and declared a major disaster or an emergency any affected students in award year 2017– (9), as paragraphs (6), (7), and (8), respec- under section 401 or 501, respectively, of the 2018. tively; and Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emer- (C) BASIS OF REALLOCATION.—The Secretary (3) in paragraph (8), as redesignated by gency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170 and 5191) shall— paragraph (2)— as a result of Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane (i) determine the manner in which excess (A) by striking subparagraphs (A) and (B); Irma, Hurricane Maria, Tropical Storm Har- allocations will be reallocated pursuant to and vey, Tropical Storm Irma, or Tropical Storm this paragraph; and (B) by striking ‘‘a college textbook that— Maria. (ii) give preference in making reallocations ’’ and inserting ‘‘a college textbook that may (2) AFFECTED STUDENT.—The term ‘‘af- to the needs of institutions of higher edu- include printed materials, computer disks, fected student’’ means an individual who has cation located in an affected area. website access, and electronically distrib- applied for or received student financial as- (D) ADDITIONAL WAIVER AUTHORITY.—Not- uted materials.’’. sistance under title IV of the Higher Edu- withstanding any other provision of law, in SEC. 6. SENSE OF CONGRESS. cation Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.), and order to carry out this paragraph, the Sec- It is the sense of Congress that institutions who— retary may waive or modify any statutory or of higher education should encourage the (A) was enrolled or accepted for enrollment regulatory provision relating to the realloca- consideration of open textbooks by faculty on August 25, 2017, at an institution of higher tion of excess allocations under subpart 3 of within the generally accepted principles of education that is located in an affected area; part A or part C of title IV of the Higher academic freedom that establishes the right (B) is a dependent student who was en- Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070b et seq. and responsibility of faculty members, indi- rolled or accepted for enrollment on August and 1087–51 et seq.) in order to ensure that vidually and collectively, to select course 25, 2017, at an institution of higher education assistance is received by institutions of high- materials that are pedagogically most appro- that is not located in an affected area, but er education that are eligible under subpara- priate for their classes. whose parent or parents resided or was em- graph (B). SEC. 7. REPORT TO CONGRESS. ployed on August 25, 2017, in an affected area; (3) AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS DATE EXTEN- Not later than 2 years after the date of en- or SION.—Notwithstanding any other provision actment of this Act, the Secretary shall pre- (C) suffered direct economic hardship as a of law— pare and submit a report to the Committee direct result of Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane (A) any funds available to the Secretary on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of Irma, Hurricane Maria, Tropical Storm Har- under sections 413A and 441 of the Higher the Senate and the Committee on Education vey, Tropical Storm Irma, or Tropical Storm Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070b and and the Workforce of the House of Rep- Maria, as determined by the Secretary. 1087–51) for which the period of availability resentatives detailing— (3) INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION.—The would otherwise expire on September 30, (1) the open textbooks created or adapted term ‘‘institution of higher education’’ has 2017, shall be available for obligation by the under this Act; the meaning given the term in section 102 of Secretary until September 30, 2018, for the (2) the adoption of such open textbooks; the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. purposes of the programs authorized pursu- 1002). (3) the savings generated for students, ant to subpart 3 of part A and part C of title (4) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ States, and the Federal Government through IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 means the Secretary of Education. the use of open textbooks; and U.S.C. 1070b et seq. and 1087–51 et seq.); and (b) WAIVERS.— (4) the impact of open textbooks on in- (B) the Secretary may recall any funds al- (1) WAIVER OF NON-FEDERAL SHARE REQUIRE- struction and student learning outcomes. located to an institution of higher education MENT.—Notwithstanding sections 413C(a)(2) SEC. 8. GAO REPORT. and 443(b)(5) of the Higher Education Act of for award year 2016–2017 under section 413D Not later than 3 years after the date of en- 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070b–2(a)(2) and 1087–53(b)(5)), or 442 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 actment of this Act, the Comptroller General with respect to funds made available for U.S.C. 1070b–3 and 1087–52), that, if not re- of the United States shall prepare and sub- award years 2016–2017 and 2017–2018— turned to the Secretary as excess allocations mit a report to the Committee on Health, (A) in the case of an institution of higher pursuant to either of those sections, would Education, Labor, and Pensions of the Sen- education that is located in an affected area, otherwise lapse on September 30, 2017, and ate and the Committee on Education and the the Secretary shall waive the requirement reallocate those funds in accordance with Workforce of the House of Representatives that a participating institution of higher paragraph (2)(A). on the cost of textbooks to students at insti- education provide a non-Federal share to (c) EMERGENCY REQUIREMENT.—This sec- tutions of higher education. The report shall match Federal funds provided to the institution is designated as an emergency require- particularly examine— tion for the programs authorized pursuant to ment pursuant to section 4(g) of the Statu- tory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 (title I of (1) the change of the cost of textbooks; subpart 3 of part A and part C of title IV of Public Law 111–139; 2 U.S.C. 933(g)). (2) the factors that have contributed to the the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. (d) REPORT.—Not later than October 1, 2018, change of the cost of textbooks; 1070b et seq. and 1087–51 et seq.); and (3) the extent to which open textbooks are the Secretary shall submit to the Committee (B) in the case of an institution of higher on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of used at institutions of higher education; education that is not located in an affected (4) the impact of open textbooks on the the Senate and the Committee on Education area but has enrolled or accepted for enroll- and the Workforce of the House of Rep- cost of textbooks; and ment any affected students, the Secretary (5) how institutions are tracking the im- resentatives information on— may waive the non-Federal share require- (1) the total volume of assistance received pact of open textbooks on instruction and ment described in subparagraph (A) after student learning outcomes. by each eligible institution of higher edu- considering the institution’s student popu- cation under subsection (b)(2); and lation and existing resources. By Mr. ALEXANDER: (2) the total volume of the non-Federal (2) WAIVER OF REALLOCATION RULES.— share waived for each institution of higher S. 1866. A bill to provide the Sec- (A) AUTHORITY TO REALLOCATE.—Notwith- retary of Education with waiver au- education under subsection (b)(1). standing sections 413D(d) and 442(d) of the (e) SUNSET.—The provisions of subsection thority for the reallocation rules and Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070b– (b) shall cease to be effective on September authority to extend the deadline by 3(d) and 1087–52(d)), the Secretary shall— 30, 2018. which funds have to be reallocated in (i) reallocate any funds returned under SEC. 3. PROJECT SERV AND EQUITABLE SERV- the campus-based aid programs under such section 413D or 442 of the Higher Edu- ICES FOR CHILDREN AND TEACHERS the Higher Education Act of 1965 due to cation Act of 1965 that were allocated to in- IN PRIVATE SCHOOLS. Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, and stitutions of higher education for award year Section 8501(b)(1) of the Elementary and 2016–2017 to an institution of higher edu- Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. Hurricane Maria, to provide equitable cation that is eligible under subparagraph 7881(b)(1)) is amended— services to children and teachers in pri- (B); and (1) in subparagraph (D), by striking ‘‘and’’; vate schools, and for other purposes; (ii) waive the allocation reduction for (2) in subparagraph (E), by striking the pe- considered and passed. award year 2018–2019 for an institution of riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.021 S26SEPT1 S6138 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 (3) by adding at the end the following: dress, and other personal information on laws had been crafted with ‘‘surgical ‘‘(F) section 4631, with regard to Project record is current; and precision’’ to discriminate against mi- SERV.’’. (C) to go to the polls on election day and norities. vote if the voting-eligible citizen would like f Now we have an administration that to do so. is abandoning efforts to uphold voting Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS rights. In many States, this is a truly rise to discuss my resolution, S. Res. bipartisan effort. The Commission on 268, calling on the Senate to formally ‘‘Election Integrity’’ looks to be mak- recognize September 26 as National SENATE RESOLUTION 268—RECOG- ing it harder, rather than easier, to NIZING SEPTEMBER 26, 2017, AS Voter Registration Day. National Voter Registration Day is a vote. States are reporting that some ‘‘NATIONAL VOTER REGISTRA- Americans are actually unregistering TION DAY’’ celebration of our democracy and our Nation’s most fundamental right—the to vote because of the Commission’s re- Ms. KLOBUCHAR (for herself and Mr. right to vote. quest for personal data from across the CARDIN) submitted the following reso- Today, thousands of volunteers and country. We have had Democratic and lution; which was referred to the Com- organizations in all 50 States are hit- Republican secretaries of state band mittee on Rules and Administration: ting the streets to register voters. together to say this is something they S. RES. 268 Their goal is to create awareness about don’t want to do. Taken together, these efforts to sup- Whereas the right to vote is a fundamental the registration process and register right that— people who may not register on their press the vote represent a concerted (1) is guaranteed to the people of the own or don’t have the time or don’t strategy to ensure that fewer people United States; and know how to do it. It is really to reach make it to the polls. This is not about (2) constitutes the core of the democracy of out to people way ahead of an election. one party or the other party; this is the United States; Last year, their hard work paid off, and about our democracy. Our very free- Whereas countless people of the United doms are built upon the freedom to States have struggled to obtain and protect more than 750,000 Americans registered to vote on National Voter Registration vote. the right to vote; So what else do we see? Well, we see Day. Whereas each eligible United States citizen attacks from without on our election. I who would like to vote should be able to do These volunteers understand that so without encountering unnecessary bar- voting is a fundamental right, but not remember the Presiding Officer had an riers to the ballot box; everyone agrees. There are still people excellent quote on this matter when he Whereas eligible United States citizens who seem to see it as a privilege that said: One election, it will be one can- who are 18 years of age or older have the not all eligible voters should enjoy. didate in one party; and the next elec- legal rights— tion, it could be the other candidate (1) to register to vote; and That is not the way we should see this. The right to vote is clearly under at- from the other party. That is why, (2) to vote; when we look at interference from for- Whereas the Bureau of the Census esti- tack in the United States. We have seen discriminatory voting laws spring eign governments, we must also pro- mates that over 20 percent of eligible United tect the sacred right to vote, and that States citizens are not registered to vote; up across the country, and those who Whereas many United States citizens are want to prevent people from voting are means everything from the amendment not aware that they must register to vote be- making it harder and harder for people I have with Senator LINDSEY GRAHAM, fore they may cast a ballot; to get to the polls. which is now a bill, to make sure our Whereas, because United States citizens I do not see this as a partisan issue. cyber security is strengthened as we must register in order to vote, many polit- My State last year had the highest vot- head into the 2018 election and make ical campaigns, nonprofit organizations, reli- ing rate in the country. And we have sure that our States have the ability to gious organizations, and other groups con- protect their own voting equipment. duct voter registration drives; seen a number of States that do things like have same-day registration, mail- The reports now—I just found out that Whereas despite the efforts to register in my own State, an attempt had been United States citizens to vote, the Pew Char- in ballots, things like that, and they itable Trusts have found that more than 60 tend to have higher voting rates. They made to hack it. In 21 States, we have percent of adult United States citizens have are not just Democratic States or Re- seen attempts at hacking. All our bill does is say: Let’s help the never been asked to register to vote; publican States; they are Independent States to shore up their equipment, to Whereas, while some States allow same- States. And when you look at the list, day voter registration, many other States make sure they have backup paper bal- it doesn’t necessarily mean that a cer- require registration as many as 30 days be- lots and other commonsense measures. fore the date of the election in which a per- tain party is going to win. We had This bill in the House—the amend- son seeks to vote; Independent Governor Jesse Ventura ment to the National Defense Author- Whereas if a voter has changed names, win in our State; Governor Tim ization Act—was carried by MARK moved, or not voted in recent elections, the Pawlenty. But what our States share is MEADOWS, the head of the Freedom voter registration of the voter must be up- a higher voter turnout. What does that dated; Caucus. That is right. It is a bipartisan mean? Well, it means that people have amendment across both the House and Whereas 1 of 9 United States citizens some trust in their government when moves each year, rendering outdated the the Senate to protect our State elec- former voter registration of the individuals they participate. Even when their can- tion equipment. Our country is strong- who have moved; didate doesn’t win and the other can- er when everyone participates, and Whereas updating voter registration en- didate wins, at least they know they that is why we must protect the elec- sures an easier experience at the polls on had a say and that it mattered and tion equipment. election day; that they went to the voting booth. We must make it easier to vote. I Whereas increased voter registration may That is what I am talking about have one idea: Why don’t we just auto- lead to a higher participation rate in elec- today because in some States, we have matically register eligible voters when tions, which would strengthen the democ- seen discriminatory voting laws spring they turn 18, maybe when they get racy of the United States; and up, and they have literally made it Whereas the many organizations and indi- their driver’s license or Social Security viduals who encourage voter registration and harder for people to vote. We have number. Our States have that data. civic participation have promoted National heard reports of problems with equip- They also have a way to crosscheck Voter Registration Day on the fourth Tues- ment. We had 3-hour lines in Arizona. with criminal records and other things day of each September, which in 2017 falls on We had 100 miles to the nearest polling to make sure these are eligible voters. Tuesday, September 26: Now, therefore, be it station in Nevada and Utah, photo ID Wouldn’t that be easier than going out Resolved, That the Senate— requirements in Wisconsin, where we and trying to get everyone to vote? It (1) recognizes September 26, 2017, as ‘‘Na- now know it can really be hard to get doesn’t mean you have to vote, but you tional Voter Registration Day’’; and an ID in the first place. In North Caro- (2) encourages each voting-eligible citizen automatically get registered to vote, of the United States— lina, a Federal court found that the just like you get your Social Security (A) to register to vote; State’s laws to prevent voter access— number. (B) to verify with the appropriate State or and this is a more conservative court, There is momentum for this idea at local election official that the name, ad- the Fifth Circuit—they said the voter the State level. Last month, Illinois

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.023 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6139 became the 10th State to pass auto- SA 1104. Mr. CORNYN (for Ms. HIRONO) pro- (6) Delivering services based on the per- matic voter registration. Experts posed an amendment to the bill S. 504, to formance, mission, and purpose of a program project that it will result in 1 million permanently authorize the Asia-Pacific Eco- while eliminating redundancies. (c) DUTIES OF THE SECRETARY.—The Sec- people being added to the registration nomic Cooperation Business Travel Card Program. retary (or the Secretary’s designee), in car- list. Estimates show that as many as 50 SA 1105. Mr. CORNYN (for Mr. LEE) pro- rying out subsection (a), shall oversee the million eligible voters would be reg- posed an amendment to the bill S. 1057, to following: istered if we moved to automatic reg- amend the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hy- (1) Collecting and making publicly avail- istration. poxia Research and Control Act of 1998 to ad- able information, submitted by the Advisory Another thing we can do to increase dress harmful algal blooms, and for other Council under section 4(d) to the Committee turnout is to allow same-day voting. In purposes. on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions f and the Special Committee on Aging of the February, I introduced the Same Day Senate, the Committee on Education and the Voter Registration Act, a bill that will TEXT OF AMENDMENTS Workforce of the House of Representatives, allow people to register to vote on elec- SA 1101. Mr. CORNYN (for Ms. COL- and the State agencies responsible for car- tion day. This reduces the burden of rying out family caregiver programs, and LINS) proposed an amendment to the voting and ensures that anyone who made publically available by the Secretary, bill S. 1028, to provide for the establish- forgets to register can go up there to including evidence-based or promising prac- ment and maintenance of a Family prove who they are and they can get tices and innovative models (both domestic Caregiving Strategy, and for other pur- registered. Fifteen States have this— and foreign) regarding the provision of care poses; as follows: by family caregivers or support for family not just blue States, but red States and caregivers. blue States. And they always tend to Strike all after the enacting clause and insert the following: (2) Coordinating and assessing existing be up at the top in the number of peo- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Federal Government programs and activities ple who vote. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Recognize, to recognize and support family caregivers We need to restore Americans’ con- Assist, Include, Support, and Engage Family while ensuring maximum effectiveness and fidence in our election process and our Caregivers Act of 2017’’ or the ‘‘RAISE Fam- avoiding unnecessary duplication. democracy, and we do that by wel- ily Caregivers Act’’. (3) Providing technical assistance, as appropriate, such as disseminating identified coming people to vote. SEC. 2. DEFINITIONS. In this Act: best practices and information sharing based A few years ago, I was fortunate on reports provided under section 4(d), to (1) ADVISORY COUNCIL.—The term ‘‘Advi- enough to go with Congressman LEWIS State or local efforts to support family care- on his yearly pilgrimage—his trip sory Council’’ means the Family Caregiving Advisory Council convened under section 4. givers. where he takes people to the site of the (d) INITIAL STRATEGY; UPDATES.—The Sec- (2) FAMILY CAREGIVER.—The term ‘‘family retary shall— march to Montgomery. The weekend I caregiver’’ means an adult family member or (1) not later than 18 months after the date got to go was actually the moment 48 other individual who has a significant rela- of enactment of this Act, develop, publish, years to the weekend later. The White tionship with, and who provides a broad and submit to the Committee on Health, range of assistance to, an individual with a police chief of Montgomery handed his Education, Labor, and Pensions and the Spe- chronic or other health condition, disability, badge to Congressman LEWIS and gave cial Committee on Aging of the Senate, the or functional limitation. him that badge and apologized. He Committee on Education and the Workforce (3) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ apologized because their police depart- of the House of Representatives, and the means the Secretary of Health and Human State agencies responsible for carrying out ment at that time, 48 years before, had Services. family caregiver programs, an initial Strat- not protected the African-American (4) STRATEGY.—The term ‘‘Strategy’’ egy incorporating the items addressed in the marchers and those other citizens who means the Family Caregiving Strategy set Advisory Council’s initial report under sec- were there marching with them. forth under section 3. tion 4(d) and other relevant information, in- It took 48 years, but it happened. It SEC. 3. FAMILY CAREGIVING STRATEGY. cluding best practices, for recognizing and was an emotional trip, and it made you (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary, in con- supporting family caregivers; and think about those marchers and every- sultation with the heads of other appropriate (2) biennially update, republish, and sub- thing they had done just to get the Federal agencies, shall develop jointly with mit to the Committee on Health, Education, right to vote. You see it in other coun- the Advisory Council and submit to the Com- Labor, and Pensions and the Special Com- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and tries where people will wait in line for mittee on Aging of the Senate, the Com- Pensions and the Special Committee on mittee on Education and the Workforce of a day just to be able to have their say Aging of the Senate, the Committee on Edu- in their own government. That is real- the House of Representatives, and the State cation and the Workforce of the House of agencies responsible for carrying out family ly what this is about. It is about a free- Representatives, and the State agencies re- caregiver programs the Strategy, taking into dom—the freedoms that are guaranteed sponsible for carrying out family caregiver account the most recent annual report sub- in our Constitution. One of those is programs, and make publically available on mitted under section 4(d)(1)— that we can all participate. As long as the internet website of the Department of (A) to reflect new developments, chal- we make the rules, as long as we are el- Health and Human Services, a Family lenges, opportunities, and solutions; and Caregiving Strategy. (B) to review progress based on rec- igible, we can all participate. (b) CONTENTS.—The Strategy shall identify ommendations for recognizing and sup- Today on National Voter Registra- recommended actions that Federal (under porting family caregivers in the Strategy tion Day, I hope that people will join existing Federal programs), State, and local and, based on the results of such review, rec- governments, communities, health care pro- me in celebrating the work of those ommend priority actions for improving the viders, long-term services and supports pro- who are out there encouraging people implementation of such recommendations, viders, and others are taking, or may take, to vote and, of course, get out there as appropriate. to recognize and support family caregivers in and register yourself so your own voice (e) PROCESS FOR PUBLIC INPUT.—The Sec- can be heard. a manner that reflects their diverse needs, retary shall establish a process for public including with respect to the following: input to inform the development of, and up- f (1) Promoting greater adoption of person- dates to, the Strategy, including a process AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND and family-centered care in all health and for the public to submit recommendations to PROPOSED long-term services and supports settings, the Advisory Council and an opportunity for with the person receiving services and sup- public comment on the proposed Strategy. SA 1101. Mr. CORNYN (for Ms. COLLINS) ports and the family caregiver (as appro- (f) NO PREEMPTION.—Nothing in this Act proposed an amendment to the bill S. 1028, to priate) at the center of care teams. preempts any authority of a State or local provide for the establishment and mainte- (2) Assessment and service planning (in- government to recognize or support family nance of a Family Caregiving Strategy, and cluding care transitions and coordination) caregivers. for other purposes. involving family caregivers and care recipi- (g) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in SA 1102. Mr. CORNYN (for Ms. COLLINS) ents. this Act shall be construed to permit the proposed an amendment to the bill S. 1028, (3) Information, education and training Secretary (through regulation, guidance, supra. supports, referral, and care coordination, in- grant criteria, or otherwise) to— SA 1103. Mr. CORNYN (for Mr. LEE) pro- cluding with respect to hospice care, pallia- (1) mandate, direct, or control the alloca- posed an amendment to the resolution S. tive care, and advance planning services. tion of State or local resources; Res. 114, expressing the sense of the Senate (4) Respite options. (2) mandate the use of any of the best prac- on humanitarian crises in Nigeria, Somalia, (5) Financial security and workplace tices identified in the reports required under South Sudan, and Yemen. issues. this Act; or

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.043 S26SEPT1 S6140 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 (3) otherwise expand the authority of the cerning the development, maintenance, and of humanitarian relief for civilians in need Secretary beyond that expressly provided to updating of the Strategy, including a de- and respect and protect humanitarian and the Secretary in this Act. scription of the outcomes of the rec- medical relief personnel and objects; SEC. 4. FAMILY CAREGIVING ADVISORY COUNCIL. ommendations and any priorities included in (4) the United States, working with inter- (a) CONVENING.—The Secretary shall con- the initial report pursuant to paragraph (2), national partners, should support efforts to vene a Family Caregiving Advisory Council as appropriate. hold accountable those responsible for delib- to advise and provide recommendations, in- (2) INITIAL REPORT.—The Advisory Coun- erate restrictions on humanitarian access in cluding identified best practices, to the Sec- cil’s initial report under paragraph (1) shall Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen; retary on recognizing and supporting family include— and caregivers. (A) an inventory and assessment of all fed- (5) the contributions of charities, non-prof- (b) MEMBERSHIP.— erally funded efforts to recognize and sup- it organizations, religious organizations, and (1) IN GENERAL.—The members of the Advi- port family caregivers and the outcomes of businesses of the United States have an im- sory Council shall consist of— such efforts, including analyses of the extent portant role in addressing humanitarian cri- (A) the appointed members under para- to which federally funded efforts are reach- ses. graph (2); and ing family caregivers and gaps in such ef- SEC. 2. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. (B) the Federal members under paragraph forts; Nothing in this resolution shall be con- (3). (B) recommendations— strued as a declaration of war or authoriza- (2) APPOINTED MEMBERS.—In addition to (i) to improve and better coordinate Fed- tion to use force. the Federal members under paragraph (3), eral programs and activities to recognize and the Secretary shall appoint not more than 15 support family caregivers, as well as oppor- SA 1104. Mr. CORNYN (for Ms. voting members of the Advisory Council who tunities to improve the coordination of such HIRONO) proposed an amendment to the are not representatives of Federal depart- Federal programs and activities with State bill S. 504, to permanently authorize ments or agencies and who shall include at programs; and the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation least one representative of each of the fol- (ii) to effectively deliver services based on the performance, mission, and purpose of a Business Travel Card Program; as following: lows: (A) Family caregivers. program while eliminating redundancies, (B) Older adults with long-term services avoiding unnecessary duplication and over- Strike all after the enacting clause and in- and supports needs. lap, and ensuring the needs of family care- sert the following: (C) Individuals with disabilities. givers are met; SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (D) Health care and social service pro- (C) the identification of challenges faced This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Asia-Pacific viders. by family caregivers, including financial, Economic Cooperation Business Travel Cards (E) Long-term services and supports pro- health, and other challenges, and existing Act of 2017’’. viders. approaches to address such challenges; and SEC. 2. ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION (F) Employers. (D) an evaluation of how family caregiving BUSINESS TRAVEL CARDS. (G) Paraprofessional workers. impacts the Medicare program, the Medicaid (a) IN GENERAL.—Subtitle B of title IV of (H) State and local officials. program, and other Federal programs. the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. (I) Accreditation bodies. (e) NONAPPLICABILITY OF FACA.—The Fed- 211 et seq.) is amended by inserting after sec- (J) Veterans. eral Advisory Committee Act (5 U.S.C. App.) tion 417 the following: shall not apply to the Advisory Council. (K) As appropriate, other experts and advo- ‘‘SEC. 418. ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERA- cacy organizations engaged in family SEC. 5. FUNDING. TION BUSINESS TRAVEL CARDS. caregiving. No additional funds are authorized to be ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Commissioner of (3) FEDERAL MEMBERS.—The Federal mem- appropriated to carry out this Act. This Act U.S. Customs and Border Protection is au- bers of the Advisory Council, who shall be shall be carried out using funds otherwise thorized to issue an Asia-Pacific Economic nonvoting members, shall consist of the fol- authorized. . Cooperation Business Travel Card (referred lowing: SEC. 6. SUNSET PROVISION. to in this section as an ‘ABT Card’) to any (A) The Administrator of the Centers for The authority and obligations established individual described in subsection (b). Medicare & Medicaid Services (or the Admin- by this Act shall terminate on the date that ‘‘(b) CARD ISSUANCE.—An individual de- istrator’s designee). is 5 years after the date of enactment of this scribed in this subsection is an individual (B) The Administrator of the Administra- Act. who— tion for Community Living (or the Adminis- ‘‘(1) is a citizen of the United States; trator’s designee who has experience in both SA 1102. Mr. CORNYN (for Ms. COL- ‘‘(2) has been approved and is in good aging and disability). LINS) proposed an amendment to the standing in an existing international trusted (C) The Secretary of Veterans Affairs (or bill S. 1028, to provide for the establish- traveler program of the Department; and the Secretary’s designee). ment and maintenance of a Family ‘‘(3) is— (D) The heads of other Federal depart- Caregiving Strategy, and for other pur- ‘‘(A) engaged in business in the Asia-Pa- ments or agencies (or their designees), in- cific region, as determined by the Commis- cluding relevant departments or agencies poses; as follows: sioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protec- that oversee labor and workforce, economic, Amend the title so as to read: ‘‘A bill to tion; or government financial policies, community provide for the establishment and mainte- ‘‘(B) a United States Government official service, and other impacted populations, as nance of a Family Caregiving Strategy, and actively engaged in Asia-Pacific Economic appointed by the Secretary or the Chair of for other purposes.’’. Cooperation business, as determined by the the Advisory Council. Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border (4) DIVERSE REPRESENTATION.—The Sec- SA 1103. Mr. CORNYN (for Mr. LEE) Protection. retary shall ensure that the membership of proposed an amendment to the resolu- ‘‘(c) INTEGRATION WITH EXISTING TRAVEL the Advisory Council reflects the diversity of tion S. Res. 114, expressing the sense of PROGRAMS.—The Commissioner of U.S. Cus- family caregivers and individuals receiving the Senate on humanitarian crises in toms and Border Protection shall integrate services and supports. Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and application procedures for, and issuance, re- (c) MEETINGS.—The Advisory Council shall Yemen; as follows: newal, and revocation of, ABT Cards with ex- meet quarterly during the 1-year period be- isting international trusted traveler pro- ginning on the date of enactment of this Act Strike all after the resolving clause and in- grams of the Department. and at least three times during each year sert the following: ‘‘(d) COOPERATION WITH PRIVATE ENTITIES thereafter. Meetings of the Advisory Council SECTION 1. SENSE OF THE SENATE. AND NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS.—In shall be open to the public. It is the sense of the Senate that— carrying out this section, the Commissioner (d) ADVISORY COUNCIL ANNUAL REPORTS.— (1) an urgent and comprehensive inter- of U.S. Customs and Border Protection may (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 12 months national diplomatic effort is necessary to ad- consult with appropriate private sector enti- after the date of enactment of this Act, and dress obstacles in Nigeria, Somalia, South ties and nongovernmental organizations, in- annually thereafter, the Advisory Council Sudan, and Yemen that are preventing hu- cluding academic institutions. shall submit to the Secretary, the Com- manitarian aid from being delivered to mil- ‘‘(e) FEE.— mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and lions of people who desperately need it; ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Commissioner of Pensions and the Special Committee on (2) the United States should encourage U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall— Aging of the Senate, the Committee on Edu- other governments to join in providing the ‘‘(A) prescribe and collect a fee for the cation and the Workforce of the House of resources necessary to address the humani- issuance and renewal of ABT Cards; and Representatives, and the State agencies re- tarian crises in Nigeria, Somalia, South ‘‘(B) adjust such fee to the extent the Com- sponsible for carrying out family caregiver Sudan, and Yemen; missioner determines necessary to comply programs, and make publically available on (3) parties to the conflicts in Nigeria, So- with paragraph (2). the internet website of the Department of malia, South Sudan, and Yemen should allow ‘‘(2) LIMITATION.—The Commissioner of Health and Human Services, a report con- and facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.025 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6141 ensure that the total amount of the fees col- (1) in paragraph (17), by striking ‘‘and’’ at Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and lected under paragraph (1) during any fiscal the end; Atmosphere; and year is sufficient to offset the direct and in- (2) by redesignating paragraph (18) as para- (B) in the case of a freshwater hypoxia or direct costs associated with carrying out graph (19); and harmful algal bloom event, the Adminis- this section during such fiscal year, includ- (3) by inserting after paragraph (17) the fol- trator of the Environmental Protection ing the costs associated with operating and lowing: Agency. maintaining the ABT Card issuance and re- ‘‘(18) carry out section 418, relating to the (2) EVENT OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.—The newal processes. issuance of Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- term ‘‘event of national significance’’ means ‘‘(3) ACCOUNT FOR COLLECTIONS.—There is tion Business Travel Cards; and’’. a hypoxia or harmful algal bloom event that established in the Treasury of the United (b) REPEAL.— has had or will likely have a significant det- States an ‘Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- (1) IN GENERAL.—The Asia-Pacific Eco- rimental environmental, economic, subsist- tion Business Travel Card Account’ into nomic Cooperation Business Travel Cards ence use, or public health impact on an af- which the fees collected under paragraph (1) Act of 2011 (Public Law 112–54; 8 U.S.C. 1185 fected State. shall be deposited as offsetting receipts. note) is repealed. (3) HYPOXIA OR HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM ‘‘(4) USE OF FUNDS.—Amounts deposited (2) SAVING CLAUSE.—Notwithstanding the EVENT.—The term ‘‘hypoxia or harmful algal into the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation repeal under paragraph (1), an ABT Card bloom event’’ means the occurrence of hy- Business Travel Card Account established issued pursuant to the Asia-Pacific Eco- poxia or a harmful algal bloom as a result of under paragraph (3) shall— nomic Cooperation Business Travel Cards a natural, anthropogenic, or undetermined ‘‘(A) be credited to the appropriate account Act of 2011 before the date of the enactment cause. of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection of this Act that, as of such date, is still f for expenses incurred in carrying out this valid, shall remain valid on and after such section; and date until such time as such Card would oth- AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO ‘‘(B) remain available until expended. erwise expire. MEET ‘‘(f) NOTIFICATION.—The Commissioner of Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, I have 8 U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall SA 1105. Mr. CORNYN (for Mr. LEE) requests for committees to meet during notify the Committee on Homeland Security proposed an amendment to the bill S. today’s session of the Senate. They of the House of Representatives and the 1057, to amend the Harmful Algal Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- have the approval of the Majority and ernmental Affairs of the Senate not later Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Con- Minority leaders. than 60 days after the expenditures of funds trol Act of 1998 to address harmful Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph to operate and provide ABT Card services be- algal blooms, and for other purposes; as 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- yond the amounts collected under subsection follows: ate, the following committees are au- (e)(1). Beginning on page 10, strike line 4 and all thorized to meet during today’s session ‘‘(g) TRUSTED TRAVELER PROGRAM DE- that follows through page 12, line 15 and in- of the Senate: FINED.—In this section, the term ‘trusted sert the following: COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES traveler program’ means a voluntary program of the Department that allows U.S. SEC. 7. HYPOXIA OR HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM OF The Committee on Armed Services is NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE. Customs and Border Protection to expedite authorized to meet during the session clearance of pre-approved, low-risk travelers (a) RELIEF.— of the Senate on Tuesday, September arriving in the United States.’’. (1) IN GENERAL.—Upon a determination 26, 2017, at 10 a.m., in open session to (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of under subsection (b) that there is an event of consider the nomination of: national significance, the appropriate Fed- contents in section 1(b) of the Homeland Se- COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN eral official is authorized to make sums curity Act of 2002 is amended by inserting AFFAIRS available to the affected State or local gov- after the item relating to section 417 the fol- The Committee on Banking, Housing, lowing new item: ernment for the purposes of assessing and mitigating the detrimental environmental, and Urban Affairs is authorized to ‘‘Sec. 418. Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- meet during the session of the Senate tion Business Travel Cards.’’. economic, subsistence use, and public health effects of the event of national significance. on Tuesday, September 26, 2017, at 10 SEC. 3. ACCOUNT. (2) FEDERAL SHARE.—The Federal share of (a) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding the re- a.m. to conduct a hearing entitled, peal of the Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- the cost of any activity carried out under ‘‘Oversight of the U.S. Securities and tion Business Travel Cards Act of 2011 (Pub- this subsection for the purposes described in Exchange Commission.’’ paragraph (1) may not exceed 50 percent of lic Law 112–54; 8 U.S.C. 1185 note) pursuant to COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL the cost of that activity. section 4(b)(1), amounts deposited into the RESOURCES (3) DONATIONS.—Notwithstanding any other APEC Business Travel Card Account estab- The Senate Committee on Energy lished pursuant to such Act as of the date of provision of law, an appropriate Federal official may accept donations of funds, services, and Natural Resources is authorized to the enactment of this Act are hereby trans- meet during the session of the Senate ferred to the Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- facilities, materials, or equipment that the tion Business Travel Card Account estab- appropriate Federal official considers nec- in order to hold a hearing on Tuesday, lished pursuant to section 418(e) of the essary for the purposes described in para- September 26, 2017, at 10 a.m. in Room Homeland Security Act of 2002 (as added by graph (1). Any funds donated to an appro- 366 of the Dirksen Senate Office Build- section 2(a) of this Act), and shall be avail- priate Federal official under this paragraph ing in Washington, DC. able without regard to whether such may be expended without further appropria- COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS amounts are expended in connection with ex- tion and without fiscal year limitation. The Committee on Foreign Relations (b) DETERMINATIONS.— penses incurred with respect to an ABT Card is authorized to meet during the ses- (1) IN GENERAL.—At the discretion of an ap- issued at any time before or after such date sion of the Senate on Tuesday, Sep- of enactment. propriate Federal official, or at the request (b) AVAILABILITY.—Amounts deposited in of the Governor of an affected State, an ap- tember 26, 2017 at 10:30 a.m., to hold a the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Busi- propriate Federal official shall determine business meeting. ness Travel Card Account established pursu- whether a hypoxia or harmful algal bloom COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS ant to section 418(e) of the Homeland Secu- event is an event of national significance. The Committee on Foreign Relations rity Act of 2002, in addition to the purposes (2) CONSIDERATIONS.—In making a deter- is authorized to meet during the ses- for which such amounts are available pursu- mination under paragraph (1), the appro- sion of the Senate on Tuesday, Sep- ant to such subsection, shall also be avail- priate Federal official shall consider the tox- tember 26, 2017 at 10:45 a.m., to hold a able for expenditure in connection with ex- icity of the harmful algal bloom, the severity of the hypoxia, its potential to spread, hearing entitled, ‘‘Managing Security penses incurred with respect to ABT Cards Assistance to Support Foreign Policy.’’ issued at any time before the date of the en- the economic impact, the relative size in re- actment of such section. lation to the past 5 occurrences of harmful COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY (c) TERMINATION.—After the completion of algal blooms or hypoxia events that occur on The Committee on the Judiciary is the transfer described in subsection (a), the a recurrent or annual basis, and the geo- authorized to meet during the session Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business graphic scope, including the potential to af- of the Senate, on September 26, 2017 at Travel Card Account established pursuant to fect several municipalities, to affect more 10 a.m., in room SD–226 of the Dirksen the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Busi- than 1 State, or to cross an international Senate Office Building, to conduct a ness Travel Cards Act of 2011 shall be closed. boundary. hearing entitled, ‘‘Special Counsels and (c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: SEC. 4. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS AND RE- the Separation of Powers.’’ PEAL. (1) APPROPRIATE FEDERAL OFFICIAL.—The (a) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Section term ‘‘appropriate Federal official’’ means— COMMITTEE ON INTELLIGENCE 411(c) of section 411 of the Homeland Secu- (A) in the case of a marine or coastal hy- The Senate Select Committee on In- rity Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 211(c)) is amended— poxia or harmful algal bloom event, the telligence is authorized to meet during

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.028 S26SEPT1 S6142 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 the session of the 115th Congress of the harmed by the hurricanes at those declared a major disaster or an emergency U.S. Senate on Tuesday, September 26, schools. under section 401 or 501, respectively, of the 2017 from 2 p.m., in room SH–219 of the Finally, the third thing this bill will Robert T. Stafford Disaster Relief and Emer- Senate Hart Office Building to hold a do is restore the equitable distribution gency Assistance Act (42 U.S.C. 5170 and 5191) as a result of Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Closed Member Roundtable. to all schools in the Project School Irma, Hurricane Maria, Tropical Storm Har- COMMITTEE ON CONSUMER PROTECTION, PROD- Emergency Response to Violence Pro- vey, Tropical Storm Irma, or Tropical Storm UCT SAFETY, INSURANCE, AND DATA SECURITY gram. Maria. The Committee on Commerce, These grants go to schools to assist (2) AFFECTED STUDENT.—The term ‘‘af- Science, and Transportation is author- recovery following a crisis. They can be fected student’’ means an individual who has ized to hold a meeting during the ses- used for a wide variety of activities, in- applied for or received student financial as- sion of the Senate on Tuesday, Sep- cluding mental health assessments, sistance under title IV of the Higher Edu- tember 26, 2017, at 2:30 p.m. in room 253 emergency transportation needs, and cation Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070 et seq.), and who— of the Russell Senate Office Building. increased costs for teacher overtime. (A) was enrolled or accepted for enrollment The Committee will hold Sub- My State alone can be expected to sub- on August 25, 2017, at an institution of higher committee Hearing on ‘‘FTC Stake- mit applications for this funding next education that is located in an affected area; holder Perspectives: Reform Proposals week, and over 14,000 campuses would (B) is a dependent student who was en- to Improve Fairness, Innovation and be eligible. Obviously, given the lim- rolled or accepted for enrollment on August Consumer Welfare.’’ ited funds, not all of them will receive 25, 2017, at an institution of higher education that is not located in an affected area, but f the maximum they could, but the point is, this is a widely needed and impor- whose parent or parents resided or was em- HURRICANES HARVEY, IRMA, AND ployed on August 25, 2017, in an affected area; tant source of funds for those 14,000 MARIA EDUCATION RELIEF ACT or campuses in Texas alone. Previously, OF 2017 (C) suffered direct economic hardship as a Louisiana, New Jersey, New York, and direct result of Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I would Connecticut all received these funds Irma, Hurricane Maria, Tropical Storm Har- like to address a bill that was actually after Katrina and Sandy. vey, Tropical Storm Irma, or Tropical Storm recommended to me by the chairman Colleagues, Congress needs to act or Maria, as determined by the Secretary. of the Health, Education, Labor, and we will forgo our opportunity to use all (3) INSTITUTION OF HIGHER EDUCATION.—The Pensions Committee, Senator ALEX- three categories of these funds since, as term ‘‘institution of higher education’’ has the meaning given the term in section 102 of ANDER. I appreciate his bringing this I said, the time expires next Saturday. matter to my attention. I will explain the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. When so many people in my home 1002). what it does in a moment. State of Texas and States such as Lou- (4) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ Basically, it deals with the edu- isiana and Florida and places such as means the Secretary of Education. cational impact of hurricanes on our Puerto Rico are dealing with the after- (b) WAIVERS.— population, whether they be in Texas, math of devastating hurricanes, we (1) WAIVER OF NON-FEDERAL SHARE REQUIRE- whether they be in Florida, or whether cannot allow this opportunity to go to MENT.—Notwithstanding sections 413C(a)(2) they be in Puerto Rico. I think it is im- waste. and 443(b)(5) of the Higher Education Act of portant, as the Presiding Officer knows Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070b–2(a)(2) and 1087–53(b)(5)), in his having been to Puerto Rico resent that the Senate proceed to the im- with respect to funds made available for cently, that we deal with all of these award years 2016–2017 and 2017–2018— mediate consideration of S. 1866, intro- (A) in the case of an institution of higher hurricanes and their aftermaths in a duced earlier today. similar and combined and joint fash- education that is located in an affected area, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the Secretary shall waive the requirement ion. clerk will report the bill by title. that a participating institution of higher This legislation is called the Hurri- The senior assistant legislative clerk education provide a non-Federal share to canes Harvey, Irma, and Maria Edu- read as follows: match Federal funds provided to the institu- cation Relief Act of 2017, and it has A bill (S. 1866) to provide the Secretary of tion for the programs authorized pursuant to three vital hurricane relief-related pur- Education with waiver authority for the re- subpart 3 of part A and part C of title IV of poses. allocation rules and authority to extend the the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. First, it provides the Secretary of deadline by which funds have to be reallo- 1070b et seq. and 1087–51 et seq.); and Education with the authority to waive cated in the campus-based aid programs (B) in the case of an institution of higher under the Higher Education Act of 1965 due education that is not located in an affected Federal matching requirements for two area but has enrolled or accepted for enroll- campus-based aid programs under the to Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, and Hurricane Maria, to provide equitable serv- ment any affected students, the Secretary Higher Education Act. First is the Fed- may waive the non-Federal share require- eral Supplemental Educational Oppor- ices to children and teachers in private schools, and for other purposes. ment described in subparagraph (A) after tunity Grant Program. Second is the considering the institution’s student popu- Federal Work-Study Program. Notably, There being no objection, the Senate lation and existing resources. in my State, 18 campuses of higher edu- proceeded to consider the bill. (2) WAIVER OF REALLOCATION RULES.— cation will be eligible for the waiver of Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask (A) AUTHORITY TO REALLOCATE.—Notwith- standing sections 413D(d) and 442(d) of the Federal matching requirements. If not unanimous consent that the bill be considered read a third time and passed Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070b– passed before September 30, which is on 3(d) and 1087–52(d)), the Secretary shall— Saturday, if I am not mistaken, these and the motion to reconsider be considered made and laid upon the table. (i) reallocate any funds returned under matching funds will no longer be avail- such section 413D or 442 of the Higher Edu- able. So this is a rare window of oppor- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without cation Act of 1965 that were allocated to in- tunity for us. As I said, this waiver of objection, it is so ordered. stitutions of higher education for award year authority and relief was also done fol- The bill (S. 1866) was ordered to be 2016–2017 to an institution of higher edu- lowing Hurricanes Katrina, Rita, and engrossed for a third reading, was read cation that is eligible under subparagraph (B); and Sandy, I believe. the third time, and passed, as follows: S. 1866 (ii) waive the allocation reduction for No. 2, the bill requires the Secretary award year 2018–2019 for an institution of to reallocate any remaining supple- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- higher education that is eligible under sub- mental educational opportunity grant resentatives of the United States of America in paragraph (B) returning more than 10 per- or Federal work study funds from the Congress assembled, cent of its allocation under such section 413D 2016 and 2017 award years to colleges SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. or 442 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 for and universities located in hurricane- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Hurricanes award year 2017–2018. impacted areas. Currently, this second Harvey, Irma, and Maria Education Relief (B) INSTITUTIONS ELIGIBLE FOR REALLOCA- Act of 2017’’. amount totals $17.5 million, and if it is TION.—An institution of higher education is SEC. 2. ALLOCATION AND USE OF CAMPUS-BASED eligible under this subparagraph if the insti- not used by the end of September, like HIGHER EDUCATION ASSISTANCE. tution— these matching funds, it will no longer (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: (i) participates in the program for which be available. These funds provide finan- (1) AFFECTED AREA.—The term ‘‘affected excess allocations are being reallocated; and cial aid to students who have been area’’ means an area for which the President (ii)(I) is located in an affected area; or

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.029 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6143 (II) has enrolled or accepted for enrollment The bill clerk read as follows: total population—currently require urgent hu- any affected students in award year 2017– A bill (S. 1028) to provide for the establish- manitarian assistance.’’; 2018. ment and maintenance of a National Family Whereas, according to USAID, ‘‘An estimated (C) BASIS OF REALLOCATION.—The Secretary Caregiving Strategy, and for other purposes. 5.5 million people—nearly half of South Sudan’s shall— population—will face life threatening hunger by (i) determine the manner in which excess There being no objection, the Senate July.’’; allocations will be reallocated pursuant to proceeded to consider the bill. Whereas, according to USAID, in Yemen, this paragraph; and Mr. CORNYN. I ask unanimous con- ‘‘More than seventeen million people—an as- (ii) give preference in making reallocations sent that the Collins substitute amend- tounding 60% of the country’s population—are to the needs of institutions of higher edu- ment, which is at the desk, be agreed food insecure, including seven million people cation located in an affected area. to; that the bill, as amended, be consid- who are unable to survive without food assist- (D) ADDITIONAL WAIVER AUTHORITY.—Not- ered read a third time and passed; that ance.’’; withstanding any other provision of law, in Whereas, according to the United Nations order to carry out this paragraph, the Sec- the Collins title amendment, which is Children’s Fund (UNICEF), ‘‘[s]ome 22 million retary may waive or modify any statutory or at the desk, be agreed to; and that the children have been left hungry, sick, displaced regulatory provision relating to the realloca- motions to reconsider be considered and out of school in the four countries’’ and tion of excess allocations under subpart 3 of made and laid upon the table. ‘‘Nearly 1.4 million are at imminent risk of part A or part C of title IV of the Higher The amendment (No. 1101) in the na- death this year from severe malnutrition.’’; Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070b et seq. ture of a substitute was agreed to. Whereas the humanitarian crises in each of and 1087–51 et seq.) in order to ensure that (The amendment is printed in today’s these regions are, to varying degrees, man-made assistance is received by institutions of high- and preventable—exacerbated by armed conflict RECORD under ‘‘Text of Amendments.’’) er education that are eligible under subpara- and deliberate restrictions on humanitarian ac- graph (B). The bill (S. 1028), as amended, was or- cess; (3) AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS DATE EXTEN- dered to be engrossed for a third read- Whereas parties to the conflicts, including SION.—Notwithstanding any other provision ing, was read the third time, and even some government forces, have harassed, at- of law— passed. tacked, and killed humanitarian workers, (A) any funds available to the Secretary The amendment (No. 1102) was agreed blocked and hindered humanitarian access, and under sections 413A and 441 of the Higher to, as follows: continue to deprive the world’s most hungry Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1070b and people of the food they need; (Purpose: To amend the title) 1087–51) for which the period of availability Whereas humanitarian actors, coordinated by would otherwise expire on September 30, Amend the title so as to read: ‘‘A bill to OCHA, have appealed for $5,600,000,000 in 2017 2017, shall be available for obligation by the provide for the establishment and mainte- to address famines in Yemen, South Sudan, Ni- Secretary until September 30, 2018, for the nance of a Family Caregiving Strategy, and geria, and Somalia; and purposes of the programs authorized pursu- for other purposes.’’. Whereas Mr. Daccord testified before Congress ant to subpart 3 of part A and part C of title on March 22, 2017, ‘‘Our main message is clear: IV of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 f immediate, decisive action is needed to prevent U.S.C. 1070b et seq. and 1087–51 et seq.); and EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF THE vast numbers of people starving to death.’’: (B) the Secretary may recall any funds al- SENATE ON HUMANITARIAN CRI- Now, therefore, be it located to an institution of higher education for award year 2016–2017 under section 413D SES IN NIGERIA, SOMALIA, Resolved, SOUTH SUDAN, AND YEMEN or 442 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 (20 That it is the sense of the Senate that— U.S.C. 1070b–3 and 1087–52), that, if not re- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask (1) the United States should lead an urgent turned to the Secretary as excess allocations unanimous consent that the Senate pursuant to either of those sections, would and comprehensive international diplomatic ef- otherwise lapse on September 30, 2017, and proceed to the consideration of Cal- fort to address obstacles in Nigeria, Somalia, reallocate those funds in accordance with endar No. 115, S. Res. 114. South Sudan, and Yemen that are preventing paragraph (2)(A). The PRESIDING OFFICER. The humanitarian aid from being delivered to mil- (c) EMERGENCY REQUIREMENT.—This sec- clerk will report the resolution by lions of people who desperately need it; tion is designated as an emergency require- title. (2) the United States should encourage other ment pursuant to section 4(g) of the Statu- The bill clerk read as follows: governments to join the United States in pro- tory Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010 (title I of A resolution (S. Res. 114) expressing the viding the resources necessary to address the Public Law 111–139; 2 U.S.C. 933(g)). humanitarian crises in Nigeria, Somalia, South (d) REPORT.—Not later than October 1, 2018, sense of the Senate on humanitarian crises Sudan, and Yemen; the Secretary shall submit to the Committee in Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions of Yemen. (3) parties to the conflicts in Nigeria, Somalia, the Senate and the Committee on Education There being no objection, the Senate South Sudan, and Yemen should allow and fa- and the Workforce of the House of Rep- proceeded to consider the bill, which cilitate rapid and unimpeded passage of human- resentatives information on— had been reported from the Committee itarian relief for civilians in need and respect (1) the total volume of assistance received and protect humanitarian and medical relief by each eligible institution of higher edu- on Foreign Relations, with an amend- personnel and objects; and cation under subsection (b)(2); and ment to strike all after the resolving clause and insert the part printed in (4) the United States, working with inter- (2) the total volume of the non-Federal national partners, should support efforts to hold share waived for each institution of higher italic, and with an amendment to accountable those responsible for deliberate re- education under subsection (b)(1). strike the preamble and insert the part strictions on humanitarian access in Nigeria, (e) SUNSET.—The provisions of subsection printed in italic, as follows: Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen. (b) shall cease to be effective on September Whereas Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and 30, 2018. Yemen are all in famine, pre-famine, or at risk Mr. CORNYN. I ask unanimous con- SEC. 3. PROJECT SERV AND EQUITABLE SERV- of famine in 2017; sent that the committee amendment to ICES FOR CHILDREN AND TEACHERS IN PRIVATE SCHOOLS. Whereas, according to the United Nations Of- the resolution be withdrawn; the Lee Section 8501(b)(1) of the Elementary and fice for the Coordination of Humanitarian Af- amendment at the desk be agreed to; Secondary Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. fairs (OCHA), 20,000,000 people are at risk of the resolution, as amended, be agreed starvation this year in Nigeria, Somalia, South 7881(b)(1)) is amended— to; the amendment to the preamble be (1) in subparagraph (D), by striking ‘‘and’’; Sudan, and Yemen; (2) in subparagraph (E), by striking the pe- Whereas, on March 22, 2017, Mr. Yves agreed to; the preamble, as amended, riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and Daccord, the Director-General of the Inter- be agreed to; and the motions to recon- (3) by adding at the end the following: national Committee of the Red Cross, testified sider be considered made and laid upon ‘‘(F) section 4631, with regard to Project before Congress that the crisis represents ‘‘one the table. SERV.’’. of the most critical humanitarian issues to face mankind since the end of the Second World The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without f War’’ and warned that ‘‘we are at the brink of objection, it is so ordered. RAISE FAMILY CAREGIVERS ACT a humanitarian mega-crisis unprecedented in recent history’’; The committee-reported amendment Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask Whereas, according to the United States in the nature of a substitute to the res- unanimous consent that the Senate Agency for International Development (USAID), olution was withdrawn. proceed to the immediate consider- ‘‘[m]ore than 5.1 million people face severe food ation of Calendar No. 78, S. 1028. insecurity in northeastern Nigeria’’; The amendment (No. 1103) in the na- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Whereas, according to USAID, ‘‘An estimated ture of a substitute was agreed to, as clerk will report the bill by title. 6.2 million people—more than half of Somalia’s follows:

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(Purpose: To recognize that charities, non- and out of school in the four countries’’ and (Purpose: In the nature of a substitute) profit organizations, religious organiza- ‘‘Nearly 1.4 million are at imminent risk of Strike all after the enacting clause and in- tions, and businesses of the United States death this year from severe malnutrition.’’; sert the following: have an important role in addressing hu- Whereas the humanitarian crises in each of SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. manitarian crises) these regions are, to varying degrees, man-made This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Asia-Pacific and preventable—exacerbated by armed conflict Strike all after the resolving clause and in- Economic Cooperation Business Travel Cards sert the following: and deliberate restrictions on humanitarian ac- Act of 2017’’. cess; SECTION 1. SENSE OF THE SENATE. Whereas parties to the conflicts, including SEC. 2. ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERATION It is the sense of the Senate that— BUSINESS TRAVEL CARDS. even some government forces, have harassed, at- (1) an urgent and comprehensive inter- (a) IN GENERAL.—Subtitle B of title IV of tacked, and killed humanitarian workers, national diplomatic effort is necessary to ad- the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. blocked and hindered humanitarian access, and dress obstacles in Nigeria, Somalia, South 211 et seq.) is amended by inserting after sec- continue to deprive the world’s most hungry Sudan, and Yemen that are preventing hu- tion 417 the following: people of the food they need; manitarian aid from being delivered to mil- ‘‘SEC. 418. ASIA-PACIFIC ECONOMIC COOPERA- Whereas humanitarian actors, coordinated by lions of people who desperately need it; TION BUSINESS TRAVEL CARDS. OCHA, have appealed for $5,600,000,000 in 2017 (2) the United States should encourage ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Commissioner of to address famines in Yemen, South Sudan, Ni- other governments to join in providing the U.S. Customs and Border Protection is au- geria, and Somalia; and resources necessary to address the humani- thorized to issue an Asia-Pacific Economic Whereas Mr. Daccord testified before Congress tarian crises in Nigeria, Somalia, South Cooperation Business Travel Card (referred on March 22, 2017, ‘‘Our main message is clear: Sudan, and Yemen; to in this section as an ‘ABT Card’) to any immediate, decisive action is needed to prevent (3) parties to the conflicts in Nigeria, So- individual described in subsection (b). vast numbers of people starving to death.’’: malia, South Sudan, and Yemen should allow ‘‘(b) CARD ISSUANCE.—An individual de- Now, therefore, be it scribed in this subsection is an individual and facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage Resolved, of humanitarian relief for civilians in need who— SECTION 1. SENSE OF THE SENATE. ‘‘(1) is a citizen of the United States; and respect and protect humanitarian and It is the sense of the Senate that— ‘‘(2) has been approved and is in good medical relief personnel and objects; (1) an urgent and comprehensive inter- standing in an existing international trusted (4) the United States, working with international diplomatic effort is necessary to ad- traveler program of the Department; and national partners, should support efforts to dress obstacles in Nigeria, Somalia, South ‘‘(3) is— hold accountable those responsible for delib- Sudan, and Yemen that are preventing hu- ‘‘(A) engaged in business in the Asia-Pa- erate restrictions on humanitarian access in manitarian aid from being delivered to mil- cific region, as determined by the Commis- Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen; lions of people who desperately need it; sioner of U.S. Customs and Border Protec- and (2) the United States should encourage tion; or (5) the contributions of charities, non-prof- other governments to join in providing the ‘‘(B) a United States Government official it organizations, religious organizations, and resources necessary to address the humani- actively engaged in Asia-Pacific Economic businesses of the United States have an im- tarian crises in Nigeria, Somalia, South Cooperation business, as determined by the portant role in addressing humanitarian cri- Sudan, and Yemen; Commissioner of U.S. Customs and Border ses. (3) parties to the conflicts in Nigeria, So- Protection. SEC. 2. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. malia, South Sudan, and Yemen should allow ‘‘(c) INTEGRATION WITH EXISTING TRAVEL Nothing in this resolution shall be con- and facilitate rapid and unimpeded passage strued as a declaration of war or authoriza- PROGRAMS.—The Commissioner of U.S. Cus- of humanitarian relief for civilians in need toms and Border Protection shall integrate tion to use force. and respect and protect humanitarian and The resolution (S. Res. 114), as application procedures for, and issuance, re- medical relief personnel and objects; newal, and revocation of, ABT Cards with ex- amended, was agreed to. (4) the United States, working with inter- isting international trusted traveler pro- The committee-reported amendment national partners, should support efforts to grams of the Department. in the nature of a substitute to the pre- hold accountable those responsible for delib- ‘‘(d) COOPERATION WITH PRIVATE ENTITIES amble was agreed to. erate restrictions on humanitarian access in AND NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZATIONS.—In The preamble, as amended, was Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and Yemen; carrying out this section, the Commissioner agreed to. and of U.S. Customs and Border Protection may The resolution, as amended, with its (5) the contributions of charities, non-prof- consult with appropriate private sector enti- preamble, as amended, reads as follows: it organizations, religious organizations, and ties and nongovernmental organizations, in- businesses of the United States have an im- cluding academic institutions. S. RES. 114 portant role in addressing humanitarian cri- ‘‘(e) FEE.— Whereas Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and ses. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Commissioner of Yemen are all in famine, pre-famine, or at risk SEC. 2. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall— of famine in 2017; Nothing in this resolution shall be con- ‘‘(A) prescribe and collect a fee for the Whereas, according to the United Nations Of- strued as a declaration of war or authoriza- issuance and renewal of ABT Cards; and fice for the Coordination of Humanitarian Af- tion to use force. ‘‘(B) adjust such fee to the extent the Com- fairs (OCHA), 20,000,000 people are at risk of f missioner determines necessary to comply starvation this year in Nigeria, Somalia, South APEC BUSINESS TRAVEL CARDS with paragraph (2). Sudan, and Yemen; REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2017 ‘‘(2) LIMITATION.—The Commissioner of Whereas, on March 22, 2017, Mr. Yves U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall Daccord, the Director-General of the Inter- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask ensure that the total amount of the fees col- national Committee of the Red Cross, testified unanimous consent that the Senate lected under paragraph (1) during any fiscal before Congress that the crisis represents ‘‘one proceed to the immediate consider- year is sufficient to offset the direct and in- of the most critical humanitarian issues to face ation of Calendar 190, S. 504. direct costs associated with carrying out mankind since the end of the Second World The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. this section during such fiscal year, includ- War’’ and warned that ‘‘we are at the brink of DAINES). The clerk will report the bill ing the costs associated with operating and a humanitarian mega-crisis unprecedented in by title. maintaining the ABT Card issuance and re- recent history’’; The bill clerk read as follows: newal processes. Whereas, according to the United States ‘‘(3) ACCOUNT FOR COLLECTIONS.—There is A bill (S. 504) to permanently authorize the Agency for International Development (USAID), established in the Treasury of the United ‘‘[m]ore than 5.1 million people face severe food Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Travel Card Program. States an ‘Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- insecurity in northeastern Nigeria’’; tion Business Travel Card Account’ into Whereas, according to USAID, ‘‘An estimated There being no objection, the Senate which the fees collected under paragraph (1) 6.2 million people—more than half of Somalia’s proceeded to consider the bill. shall be deposited as offsetting receipts. total population—currently require urgent hu- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask ‘‘(4) USE OF FUNDS.—Amounts deposited manitarian assistance.’’; unanimous consent that the Hirono into the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation Whereas, according to USAID, ‘‘An estimated substitute amendment, which is at the Business Travel Card Account established 5.5 million people—nearly half of South Sudan’s desk, be agreed to; that the bill, as under paragraph (3) shall— population—will face life threatening hunger by amended, be read a third time and ‘‘(A) be credited to the appropriate account July.’’; passed; and that the motion to recon- of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Whereas, according to USAID, in Yemen, sider be considered made and laid upon for expenses incurred in carrying out this ‘‘More than seventeen million people—an as- the table with no intervening action or section; and tounding 60% of the country’s population—are ‘‘(B) remain available until expended. debate. food insecure, including seven million people ‘‘(f) NOTIFICATION.—The Commissioner of who are unable to survive without food assist- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without U.S. Customs and Border Protection shall ance.’’; objection, it is so ordered. notify the Committee on Homeland Security Whereas, according to the United Nations The amendment (No. 1104) in the na- of the House of Representatives and the Children’s Fund (UNICEF), ‘‘[s]ome 22 million ture of a substitute was agreed to, as Committee on Homeland Security and Gov- children have been left hungry, sick, displaced follows: ernmental Affairs of the Senate not later

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Sep 28, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\S26SE7.REC S26SE7 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6145 than 60 days after the expenditures of funds HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM AND HY- duce the frequency, severity, and impacts of to operate and provide ABT Card services be- POXIA RESEARCH AND CONTROL harmful algal bloom and hypoxia events;’’; yond the amounts collected under subsection AMENDMENTS ACT OF 2017 (3) in paragraph (4), by striking ‘‘and work (e)(1). cooperatively with’’ and inserting ‘‘, and work ‘‘(g) TRUSTED TRAVELER PROGRAM DE- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask cooperatively to provide technical assistance FINED.—In this section, the term ‘trusted unanimous consent that the Senate to,’’; and traveler program’ means a voluntary pro- proceed to the immediate consider- (4) in paragraph (7)— gram of the Department that allows U.S. ation of Calendar No. 205, S. 1057. (A) by inserting ‘‘and extension’’ after ‘‘exist- Customs and Border Protection to expedite The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ing education’’; and clearance of pre-approved, low-risk travelers (B) by inserting ‘‘intervention,’’ after ‘‘aware- clerk will report the bill by title. ness of the causes, impacts,’’. arriving in the United States.’’. The bill clerk read as follows: (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of (b) NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC AD- contents in section 1(b) of the Homeland Se- A bill (S. 1057) to amend the Harmful Algal MINISTRATION ACTIVITIES.—Section 603A(f) (33 curity Act of 2002 is amended by inserting Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control U.S.C. 4002(f)) is amended— after the item relating to section 417 the fol- Act of 1998 to address harmful algal blooms, (1) in paragraph (3), by inserting ‘‘, which lowing new item: and for other purposes. shall include unmanned systems,’’ after ‘‘infrastructure’’; ‘‘Sec. 418. Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- There being no objection, the Senate proceeded to consider the bill, which (2) in paragraph (5), by striking ‘‘and’’ at the tion Business Travel Cards.’’. end; SEC. 3. ACCOUNT. had been reported from the Committee (3) in paragraph (6)(C), by striking the period (a) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding the re- on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- at the end and inserting a semicolon; and peal of the Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- tation, with an amendment to strike (4) by adding at the end the following: tion Business Travel Cards Act of 2011 (Pub- all after the enacting clause and insert ‘‘(7) use cost effective methods in carrying out lic Law 112–54; 8 U.S.C. 1185 note) pursuant to in lieu thereof the following: this Act; and section 4(b)(1), amounts deposited into the SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ‘‘(8) develop contingency plans for the long- APEC Business Travel Card Account estab- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Harmful Algal term monitoring of hypoxia.’’. lished pursuant to such Act as of the date of Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control SEC. 6. CONSULTATION REQUIRED. the enactment of this Act are hereby trans- Amendments Act of 2017’’. Section 102 of the Harmful Algal Bloom and ferred to the Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- SEC. 2. REFERENCES TO THE HARMFUL ALGAL Hypoxia Amendments Act of 2004 (33 U.S.C. tion Business Travel Card Account estab- BLOOM AND HYPOXIA RESEARCH 4001a) is amended by striking ‘‘the amendments lished pursuant to section 418(e) of the AND CONTROL ACT OF 1998. made by this title’’ and inserting ‘‘the Harmful Homeland Security Act of 2002 (as added by Except as otherwise expressly provided, wher- Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Control section 2(a) of this Act), and shall be avail- ever in this Act an amendment or repeal is ex- Act of 1998’’. able without regard to whether such pressed in terms of an amendment to, or repeal SEC. 7. HYPOXIA OR HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM OF amounts are expended in connection with ex- of, a section or other provision, the reference NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE. penses incurred with respect to an ABT Card shall be considered to be made to a section or (a) RELIEF.— issued at any time before or after such date other provision of the Harmful Algal Bloom and (1) IN GENERAL.—Upon a determination under of enactment. Hypoxia Research and Control Act of 1998 (33 subsection (b) that there is an event of national (b) AVAILABILITY.—Amounts deposited in U.S.C. 4001 et seq.). significance, the appropriate Federal official is the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Busi- SEC. 3. INTER-AGENCY TASK FORCE. authorized to make sums available to the af- ness Travel Card Account established pursu- Section 603(a) (33 U.S.C. 4001(a)) is amended— fected State or local government for the pur- ant to section 418(e) of the Homeland Secu- (1) in paragraph (12), by striking ‘‘and’’ at poses of assessing and mitigating the environ- rity Act of 2002, in addition to the purposes the end; mental, economic, social, and public health ef- for which such amounts are available pursu- (2) by redesignating paragraph (13) as para- fects of the event of national significance. ant to such subsection, shall also be avail- graph (14); and (2) FEDERAL SHARE.—The Federal share of the able for expenditure in connection with ex- (3) by inserting after paragraph (12) the fol- cost of any activity carried out under this sub- penses incurred with respect to ABT Cards lowing: section for the purposes described in paragraph issued at any time before the date of the en- ‘‘(13) the Army Corps of Engineers; and’’. (1) may not exceed 75 percent of the cost of that actment of such section. SEC. 4. SCIENTIFIC ASSESSMENTS OF FRESH- activity. (c) TERMINATION.—After the completion of WATER HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS. (3) DONATIONS.—Notwithstanding any other the transfer described in subsection (a), the Section 603 (33 U.S.C. 4001) is amended— provision of law, an appropriate Federal official Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business (1) by striking subsection (f); may accept donations of funds, services, facili- Travel Card Account established pursuant to (2) by redesignating subsections (g), (h), (i), ties, materials, or equipment that the appro- the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Busi- and (j) as subsections (f), (g), (h), and (i), re- priate Federal official considers necessary for ness Travel Cards Act of 2011 shall be closed. spectively; and the purposes described in paragraph (1). Any SEC. 4. CONFORMING AMENDMENTS AND RE- (3) by amending subsection (g) to read as fol- funds donated to an appropriate Federal official PEAL. lows: under this paragraph may be expended without (a) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Section ‘‘(g) SCIENTIFIC ASSESSMENTS OF MARINE AND further appropriation and without fiscal year 411(c) of section 411 of the Homeland Secu- FRESHWATER HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS.—Not limitation. rity Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 211(c)) is amended— less than once every 5 years the Task Force (b) DETERMINATIONS.— (1) in paragraph (17), by striking ‘‘and’’ at shall complete and submit to Congress a sci- (1) IN GENERAL.—At the discretion of an ap- the end; entific assessment of harmful algal blooms in propriate Federal official, or at the request of (2) by redesignating paragraph (18) as para- United States coastal waters and freshwater the Governor of an affected State, an appro- graph (19); and systems. Each assessment shall examine both priate Federal official shall determine whether a (3) by inserting after paragraph (17) the fol- marine and freshwater harmful algal blooms, in- hypoxia or harmful algal bloom event is an lowing: cluding those in the Great Lakes and upper event of national significance. ‘‘(18) carry out section 418, relating to the reaches of estuaries, those in freshwater lakes (2) CONSIDERATIONS.—In making a determina- issuance of Asia-Pacific Economic Coopera- and rivers, and those that originate in fresh- tion under paragraph (1), the appropriate Fed- tion Business Travel Cards; and’’. water lakes or rivers and migrate to coastal eral official shall consider such factors as the (b) REPEAL.— waters.’’. toxicity of the harmful algal bloom, the severity (1) IN GENERAL.—The Asia-Pacific Eco- SEC. 5. NATIONAL HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM AND of the hypoxia, its potential to spread, the economic Cooperation Business Travel Cards HYPOXIA PROGRAM. nomic impact, the relative size in relation to the Act of 2011 (Public Law 112–54; 8 U.S.C. 1185 (a) PROGRAM DUTIES.—Section 603A(e) (33 past 5 occurrences of harmful algal blooms or note) is repealed. U.S.C. 4002(e)) is amended— hypoxia events that occur on a recurrent or an- (2) SAVING CLAUSE.—Notwithstanding the (1) in paragraph (1), by inserting ‘‘, including nual basis, and the geographic scope, including repeal under paragraph (1), an ABT Card to local and regional stakeholders through the the potential to affect several municipalities, to issued pursuant to the Asia-Pacific Eco- establishment and maintenance of a publicly ac- affect more than 1 State, or to cross an inter- nomic Cooperation Business Travel Cards cessible Internet website that provides informa- national boundary. Act of 2011 before the date of the enactment tion as to Program activities completed under (c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: of this Act that, as of such date, is still this section’’ after ‘‘Program’’; (1) APPROPRIATE FEDERAL OFFICIAL.—The valid, shall remain valid on and after such (2) in paragraph (3)— term ‘‘appropriate Federal official’’ means— (A) in the case of a marine or coastal hypoxia date until such time as such Card would oth- (A) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘; and’’ or harmful algal bloom event, the Under Sec- erwise expire. and inserting a semicolon; retary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere; The bill (S. 504), as amended, was or- (B) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ‘‘and’’ after the semicolon at the end; and and dered to be engrossed for a third read- (C) by adding at the end the following: (B) in the case of a freshwater hypoxia or ing, was read the third time, and ‘‘(D) to accelerate the utilization of effective harmful algal bloom event, the Administrator of passed. methods of intervention and mitigation to re- the Environmental Protection Agency.

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(2) EVENT OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.—The Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and SEC. 5. NATIONAL HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM AND term ‘‘event of national significance’’ means a Atmosphere; and HYPOXIA PROGRAM. hypoxia or harmful algal bloom event that has (B) in the case of a freshwater hypoxia or (a) PROGRAM DUTIES.—Section 603A(e) (33 had or will likely have a significant environ- harmful algal bloom event, the Adminis- U.S.C. 4002(e)) is amended— mental, economic, or public health impact on an trator of the Environmental Protection (1) in paragraph (1), by inserting ‘‘, includ- affected State. Agency. ing to local and regional stakeholders (3) HYPOXIA OR HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM (2) EVENT OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.—The through the establishment and maintenance EVENT.—The term ‘‘hypoxia or harmful algal term ‘‘event of national significance’’ means of a publicly accessible Internet website that bloom event’’ means the occurrence of hypoxia a hypoxia or harmful algal bloom event that provides information as to Program activi- or a harmful algal bloom as a result of a nat- has had or will likely have a significant det- ties completed under this section’’ after ural, anthropogenic, or undetermined cause. rimental environmental, economic, subsist- ‘‘Program’’; (2) in paragraph (3)— SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. ence use, or public health impact on an af- (A) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘; Section 609(a) (33 U.S.C. 4009(a)) is amended fected State. and’’ and inserting a semicolon; by inserting ‘‘, and $22,000,000 for each of fiscal (3) HYPOXIA OR HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM (B) in subparagraph (C), by inserting ‘‘and’’ years 2019 through 2023’’ before the period at EVENT.—The term ‘‘hypoxia or harmful algal after the semicolon at the end; and the end. bloom event’’ means the occurrence of hy- (C) by adding at the end the following: Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask poxia or a harmful algal bloom as a result of a natural, anthropogenic, or undetermined ‘‘(D) to accelerate the utilization of effec- unanimous consent that the com- tive methods of intervention and mitigation mittee-reported substitute amendment cause. The committee-reported amendment to reduce the frequency, severity, and im- be considered, the Lee amendment be pacts of harmful algal bloom and hypoxia in the nature of a substitute, as amend- considered and agreed to, the com- events;’’; ed, was agreed to. mittee-reported substitute amend- (3) in paragraph (4), by striking ‘‘and work The bill was ordered to be engrossed ment, as amended, be agreed to, and cooperatively with’’ and inserting ‘‘, and for a third reading and was read the the bill, as amended, be considered work cooperatively to provide technical as- third time. sistance to,’’; and read a third time. Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I know (4) in paragraph (7)— The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without of no further debate on the bill. (A) by inserting ‘‘and extension’’ after ‘‘ex- objection, it is so ordered. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there isting education’’; and The amendment (No. 1105) was agreed further debate on the bill? (B) by inserting ‘‘intervention,’’ after to, as follows: Hearing none, the bill having been ‘‘awareness of the causes, impacts,’’. (Purpose: To improve the bill) (b) NATIONAL OCEANIC AND ATMOSPHERIC read the third time, the question is, ADMINISTRATION ACTIVITIES.—Section 603A(f) Beginning on page 10, strike line 4 and all Shall it pass? (33 U.S.C. 4002(f)) is amended— that follows through page 12, line 15 and in- The bill (S. 1057), as amended, was (1) in paragraph (3), by inserting ‘‘, which sert the following: passed, as follows: shall include unmanned systems,’’ after ‘‘in- SEC. 7. HYPOXIA OR HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM OF S. 1057 frastructure’’; NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE. (2) in paragraph (5), by striking ‘‘and’’ at Be it enacted by the Senate and House of (a) RELIEF.— the end; Representatives of the United States of (1) IN GENERAL.—Upon a determination (3) in paragraph (6)(C), by striking the pe- America in Congress assembled, under subsection (b) that there is an event of riod at the end and inserting a semicolon; national significance, the appropriate Fed- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. and eral official is authorized to make sums This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Harmful (4) by adding at the end the following: available to the affected State or local gov- Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Con- ‘‘(7) use cost effective methods in carrying ernment for the purposes of assessing and trol Amendments Act of 2017’’. out this Act; and mitigating the detrimental environmental, SEC. 2. REFERENCES TO THE HARMFUL ALGAL ‘‘(8) develop contingency plans for the economic, subsistence use, and public health BLOOM AND HYPOXIA RESEARCH long-term monitoring of hypoxia.’’. AND CONTROL ACT OF 1998. effects of the event of national significance. SEC. 6. CONSULTATION REQUIRED. Except as otherwise expressly provided, (2) FEDERAL SHARE.—The Federal share of Section 102 of the Harmful Algal Bloom wherever in this Act an amendment or repeal the cost of any activity carried out under and Hypoxia Amendments Act of 2004 (33 this subsection for the purposes described in is expressed in terms of an amendment to, or U.S.C. 4001a) is amended by striking ‘‘the paragraph (1) may not exceed 50 percent of repeal of, a section or other provision, the amendments made by this title’’ and insert- the cost of that activity. reference shall be considered to be made to a ing ‘‘the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia (3) DONATIONS.—Notwithstanding any other section or other provision of the Harmful Research and Control Act of 1998’’. Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research and Con- provision of law, an appropriate Federal offi- SEC. 7. HYPOXIA OR HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM OF cial may accept donations of funds, services, trol Act of 1998 (33 U.S.C. 4001 et seq.). NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE. facilities, materials, or equipment that the SEC. 3. INTER-AGENCY TASK FORCE. (a) RELIEF.— appropriate Federal official considers nec- Section 603(a) (33 U.S.C. 4001(a)) is amend- (1) IN GENERAL.—Upon a determination essary for the purposes described in para- ed— under subsection (b) that there is an event of graph (1). Any funds donated to an appro- (1) in paragraph (12), by striking ‘‘and’’ at national significance, the appropriate Fed- priate Federal official under this paragraph the end; eral official is authorized to make sums may be expended without further appropria- (2) by redesignating paragraph (13) as para- available to the affected State or local gov- tion and without fiscal year limitation. graph (14); and ernment for the purposes of assessing and (b) DETERMINATIONS.— (3) by inserting after paragraph (12) the fol- mitigating the detrimental environmental, (1) IN GENERAL.—At the discretion of an ap- lowing: economic, subsistence use, and public health propriate Federal official, or at the request ‘‘(13) the Army Corps of Engineers; and’’. effects of the event of national significance. of the Governor of an affected State, an ap- SEC. 4. SCIENTIFIC ASSESSMENTS OF FRESH- (2) FEDERAL SHARE.—The Federal share of propriate Federal official shall determine WATER HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS. the cost of any activity carried out under whether a hypoxia or harmful algal bloom Section 603 (33 U.S.C. 4001) is amended— this subsection for the purposes described in event is an event of national significance. (1) by striking subsection (f); paragraph (1) may not exceed 50 percent of (2) CONSIDERATIONS.—In making a deter- (2) by redesignating subsections (g), (h), (i), the cost of that activity. mination under paragraph (1), the appro- and (j) as subsections (f), (g), (h), and (i), re- (3) DONATIONS.—Notwithstanding any other priate Federal official shall consider the tox- spectively; and provision of law, an appropriate Federal offi- icity of the harmful algal bloom, the sever- (3) by amending subsection (g) to read as cial may accept donations of funds, services, ity of the hypoxia, its potential to spread, follows: facilities, materials, or equipment that the the economic impact, the relative size in re- ‘‘(g) SCIENTIFIC ASSESSMENTS OF MARINE appropriate Federal official considers nec- lation to the past 5 occurrences of harmful AND FRESHWATER HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOMS.— essary for the purposes described in para- algal blooms or hypoxia events that occur on Not less than once every 5 years the Task graph (1). Any funds donated to an appro- a recurrent or annual basis, and the geo- Force shall complete and submit to Congress priate Federal official under this paragraph graphic scope, including the potential to af- a scientific assessment of harmful algal may be expended without further appropria- fect several municipalities, to affect more blooms in United States coastal waters and tion and without fiscal year limitation. than 1 State, or to cross an international freshwater systems. Each assessment shall (b) DETERMINATIONS.— boundary. examine both marine and freshwater harmful (1) IN GENERAL.—At the discretion of an ap- (c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: algal blooms, including those in the Great propriate Federal official, or at the request (1) APPROPRIATE FEDERAL OFFICIAL.—The Lakes and upper reaches of estuaries, those of the Governor of an affected State, an ap- term ‘‘appropriate Federal official’’ means— in freshwater lakes and rivers, and those propriate Federal official shall determine (A) in the case of a marine or coastal hy- that originate in freshwater lakes or rivers whether a hypoxia or harmful algal bloom poxia or harmful algal bloom event, the and migrate to coastal waters.’’. event is an event of national significance.

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(2) CONSIDERATIONS.—In making a deter- Sec. 102. Expanding access to home dialysis (3) by striking ‘‘With respect to’’ and inserting mination under paragraph (1), the appro- therapy. ‘‘(A) With respect to’’; and priate Federal official shall consider the tox- TITLE II—ADVANCING TEAM-BASED CARE (4) by adding at the end the following new icity of the harmful algal bloom, the sever- subparagraph: Sec. 201. Providing continued access to Medi- ity of the hypoxia, its potential to spread, ‘‘(B) For purposes of subparagraph (A)(ii), an care Advantage special needs the economic impact, the relative size in re- individual determined to have end stage renal plans for vulnerable populations. lation to the past 5 occurrences of harmful disease receiving home dialysis may choose to algal blooms or hypoxia events that occur on TITLE III—EXPANDING INNOVATION AND receive monthly end stage renal disease-related a recurrent or annual basis, and the geo- TECHNOLOGY clinical assessments furnished on or after Janu- graphic scope, including the potential to af- Sec. 301. Adapting benefits to meet the needs of ary 1, 2019, via telehealth if the individual re- fect several municipalities, to affect more chronically ill Medicare Advan- ceives a face-to-face clinical assessment, without than 1 State, or to cross an international tage enrollees. the use of telehealth, at least once every three boundary. Sec. 302. Expanding supplemental benefits to consecutive months.’’. (c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: meet the needs of chronically ill (b) ORIGINATING SITE REQUIREMENTS.— (1) APPROPRIATE FEDERAL OFFICIAL.—The Medicare Advantage enrollees. (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 1834(m) of the Social term ‘‘appropriate Federal official’’ means— Sec. 303. Increasing convenience for Medicare Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395m(m)) is amended— (A) in the case of a marine or coastal hy- Advantage enrollees through tele- (A) in paragraph (4)(C)(ii), by adding at the poxia or harmful algal bloom event, the health. end the following new subclauses: Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Sec. 304. Providing accountable care organiza- ‘‘(IX) A renal dialysis facility, but only for Atmosphere; and tions the ability to expand the use purposes of section 1881(b)(3)(B). (B) in the case of a freshwater hypoxia or of telehealth. ‘‘(X) The home of an individual, but only for harmful algal bloom event, the Adminis- Sec. 305. Expanding the use of telehealth for in- purposes of section 1881(b)(3)(B).’’; and trator of the Environmental Protection dividuals with stroke. (B) by adding at the end the following new Agency. paragraph: TITLE IV—IDENTIFYING THE (2) EVENT OF NATIONAL SIGNIFICANCE.—The ‘‘(5) TREATMENT OF HOME DIALYSIS MONTHLY CHRONICALLY ILL POPULATION term ‘‘event of national significance’’ means ESRD-RELATED VISIT.—The geographic require- a hypoxia or harmful algal bloom event that Sec. 401. Providing flexibility for beneficiaries ments described in paragraph (4)(C)(i) shall not has had or will likely have a significant det- to be part of an accountable care apply with respect to telehealth services fur- rimental environmental, economic, subsist- organization. nished on or after January 1, 2019, for purposes ence use, or public health impact on an af- TITLE V—EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS AND of section 1881(b)(3)(B), at an originating site fected State. CAREGIVERS IN CARE DELIVERY described in subclause (VI), (IX), or (X) of para- (3) HYPOXIA OR HARMFUL ALGAL BLOOM Sec. 501. Eliminating barriers to care coordina- graph (4)(C)(ii).’’. EVENT.—The term ‘‘hypoxia or harmful algal tion under accountable care orga- (2) NO FACILITY FEE IF ORIGINATING SITE FOR bloom event’’ means the occurrence of hy- nizations. HOME DIALYSIS THERAPY IS THE HOME.—Section poxia or a harmful algal bloom as a result of Sec. 502. GAO study and report on longitudinal 1834(m)(2)(B) of the Social Security (42 U.S.C. a natural, anthropogenic, or undetermined comprehensive care planning serv- 1395m(m)(2)(B)) is amended— cause. ices under Medicare part B. (A) by redesignating clauses (i) and (ii) as subclauses (I) and (II), and indenting appro- SEC. 8. AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS. TITLE VI—OTHER POLICIES TO IMPROVE Section 609(a) (33 U.S.C. 4009(a)) is amended priately; CARE FOR THE CHRONICALLY ILL by inserting ‘‘, and $22,000,000 for each of fis- (B) in subclause (II), as redesignated by sub- cal years 2019 through 2023’’ before the period Sec. 601. Providing prescription drug plans with paragraph (A), by striking ‘‘clause (i) or this at the end. parts A and B claims data to pro- clause’’ and inserting ‘‘subclause (I) or this sub- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask mote the appropriate use of medi- clause’’; unanimous consent that the motion to cations and improve health out- (C) by striking ‘‘SITE.—With respect to’’ and reconsider be considered made and laid comes. inserting ‘‘SITE.— Sec. 602. GAO study and report on improving upon the table. ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Subject to clause (ii), with medication synchronization. respect to’’; and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Sec. 603. GAO study and report on impact of objection, it is so ordered. (D) by adding at the end the following new obesity drugs on patient health clause: f and spending. ‘‘(ii) NO FACILITY FEE IF ORIGINATING SITE FOR Sec. 604. HHS study and report on long-term CREATING HIGH-QUALITY RE- HOME DIALYSIS THERAPY IS THE HOME.—No facil- risk factors for chronic conditions ity fee shall be paid under this subparagraph to SULTS AND OUTCOMES NEC- among Medicare beneficiaries. an originating site described in paragraph ESSARY TO IMPROVE CHRONIC TITLE VII—OFFSETS (4)(C)(ii)(X).’’. (CHRONIC) CARE ACT OF 2017 Sec. 701. Medicare Improvement Fund. (c) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask Sec. 702. Medicaid Improvement Fund 1881(b)(1) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. unanimous consent that the Senate 1395rr(b)(1)) is amended by striking ‘‘paragraph TITLE I—RECEIVING HIGH QUALITY CARE (3)(A)’’ and inserting ‘‘paragraph (3)(A)(i)’’. proceed to the immediate consider- IN THE HOME TITLE II—ADVANCING TEAM-BASED CARE ation of Calendar No. 206, S. 870. SEC. 101. EXTENDING THE INDEPENDENCE AT The PRESIDING OFFICER. The HOME DEMONSTRATION PROGRAM. SEC. 201. PROVIDING CONTINUED ACCESS TO clerk will report the bill by title. MEDICARE ADVANTAGE SPECIAL Section 1866E of the Social Security Act (42 NEEDS PLANS FOR VULNERABLE The bill clerk read as follows: U.S.C. 1395cc–5) is amended— POPULATIONS. A bill (S. 870) to amend title XVIII of the (1) in subsection (e)— (a) EXTENSION.—Section 1859(f)(1) of the So- Social Security Act to implement Medicare (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘5-year pe- cial Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–28(f)(1)) is payment policies designed to improve man- riod’’ and inserting ‘‘7-year period’’; and amended by striking ‘‘and for periods before agement of chronic disease, streamline care (B) in paragraph (5), by striking ‘‘10,000’’ and January 1, 2019’’. coordination, and improve quality outcomes inserting ‘‘15,000’’; (b) INCREASED INTEGRATION OF DUAL SNPS.— without adding to the deficit. (2) in subsection (g), in the first sentence, by (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 1859(f) of the Social There being no objection, the Senate inserting ‘‘, including, to the extent practicable, Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–28(f)) is amend- proceeded to consider the bill, which the use of electronic health information systems ed— had been reported from the Committee as described in subsection (b)(1)(A)(vi),’’ after (A) in paragraph (3), by adding at the end the on Finance, with an amendment to ‘‘program’’; and following new subparagraph: (3) in subsection (i)(A), by striking ‘‘will not ‘‘(F) The plan meets the requirements applica- strike all after the enacting clause and receive an incentive payment for the second of insert in lieu thereof the following: ble under paragraph (8).’’; and 2’’ and inserting ‘‘did not achieve savings for (B) by adding at the end the following new SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. the third of 3’’. paragraph: HORT ITLE (a) S T .—This Act may be cited as SEC. 102. EXPANDING ACCESS TO HOME DIALYSIS ‘‘(8) INCREASED INTEGRATION OF DUAL SNPS.— the ‘‘Creating High-Quality Results and Out- THERAPY. ‘‘(A) DESIGNATED CONTACT.—The Secretary, comes Necessary to Improve Chronic (CHRON- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1881(b)(3) of the So- acting through the Federal Coordinated Health IC) Care Act of 2017’’. cial Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395rr(b)(3)) is Care Office established under section 2602 of the (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- amended— Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act, tents of this Act is as follows: (1) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and shall serve as a dedicated point of contact for Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. (B) as clauses (i) and (ii), respectively; States to address misalignments that arise with TITLE I—RECEIVING HIGH QUALITY CARE (2) in clause (ii), as redesignated by subpara- the integration of specialized MA plans for spe- IN THE HOME graph (A), strike ‘‘on a comprehensive’’ and in- cial needs individuals described in subsection Sec. 101. Extending the Independence at Home sert ‘‘subject to subparagraph (B), on a com- (b)(6)(B)(ii) under this paragraph and, con- Demonstration Program. prehensive’’; sistent with such role, shall—

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‘‘(i) establish a uniform process for dissemi- ‘‘(D) REQUIREMENTS FOR INTEGRATION.—For special needs individuals described in subsection nating to State Medicaid agencies information 2021 and subsequent years, a specialized MA (b)(6)(B)(iii), the requirements described in this under this title impacting contracts between plan for special needs individuals described in paragraph include the following: such agencies and such plans under this sub- subsection (b)(6)(B)(ii) shall meet one or more of ‘‘(i) The interdisciplinary team under subsection; and the following requirements, to the extent per- paragraph (A)(ii)(III) includes a team of pro- ‘‘(ii) establish basic resources for States inter- mitted under State law, for integration of bene- viders with demonstrated expertise, including ested in exploring such plans as a platform for fits under this title and title XIX: training in an applicable specialty, in treating integration, such as a model contract or other ‘‘(i) The specialized MA plan must meet the individuals similar to the targeted population of tools to achieve those goals. requirements of contracting with the State Med- the plan. ‘‘(B) UNIFIED GRIEVANCES AND APPEALS PROC- icaid agency described in paragraph (3)(D) in ‘‘(ii) Requirements developed by the Secretary ESS.— addition to coordinating long-term services and to provide face-to-face encounters with individ- ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Not later than April 1, 2020, supports or behavioral health services, or both, uals enrolled in the plan not less frequently the Secretary shall establish procedures, to the by meeting an additional minimum set of re- than on an annual basis. extent feasible, unifying grievances and appeals quirements determined by the Secretary through ‘‘(iii) As part of the model of care under procedures under sections 1852(f), 1852(g), the Federal Coordinated Health Care Office es- clause (i) of subparagraph (A), the results of the 1902(a)(3), 1902(a)(5), and 1932(b)(4) for items tablished under section 2602 of the Patient Pro- initial assessment and annual reassessment and services provided by specialized MA plans tection and Affordable Care Act based on input under clause (ii)(I) of such subparagraph of for special needs individuals described in sub- from stakeholders, such as notifying the State in each individual enrolled in the plan are ad- section (b)(6)(B)(ii) under this title and title a timely manner of hospitalizations, emergency dressed in the individual’s individualized care XIX. The Secretary shall solicit comment in de- room visits, and hospital or nursing home dis- plan under clause (ii)(II) of such subparagraph. veloping such procedures from States, plans, charges of enrollees, assigning one primary care ‘‘(iv) As part of the annual evaluation and beneficiaries and their representatives, and provider for each enrollee, or sharing data that approval of such model of care, the Secretary other relevant stakeholders. would benefit the coordination of items and shall take into account whether the plan ful- ‘‘(ii) PROCEDURES.—The procedures estab- services under this title and the State plan filled the previous year’s goals (as required lished under clause (i) shall be included in the under title XIX. Such minimum set of require- under the model of care). ‘‘(v) The Secretary shall establish a minimum plan contract under paragraph (3)(D) and ments must be included in the contract of the benchmark for each element of the model of care shall— specialized MA plan with the State Medicaid of a plan. The Secretary shall only approve a ‘‘(I) adopt the provisions for the enrollee that agency under such paragraph. are most protective for the enrollee and, to the ‘‘(ii) The specialized MA plan must meet the plan’s model of care under this paragraph if extent feasible as determined by the Secretary, requirements of a fully integrated plan described each element of the model of care meets the min- are compatible with unified timeframes and con- in section 1853(a)(1)(B)(iv)(II) (other than the imum benchmark applicable under the preceding solidated access to external review under an in- requirement that the plan have similar average sentence.’’. (2) REVISIONS TO THE DEFINITION OF A SEVERE tegrated process; levels of frailty, as determined by the Secretary, OR DISABLING CHRONIC CONDITIONS SPECIALIZED ‘‘(II) take into account differences in State as the PACE program), or enter into a capitated NEEDS INDIVIDUAL.— plans under title XIX to the extent necessary; contract with the State Medicaid agency to pro- (A) IN GENERAL.—Section 1859(b)(6)(B)(iii) of ‘‘(III) be easily navigable by an enrollee; and vide long-term services and supports or behav- ‘‘(IV) include the elements described in clause the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w– ioral health services, or both. 28(b)(6)(B)(iii)) is amended— (iii), as applicable. ‘‘(iii) In the case where an individual is en- ‘‘(iii) ELEMENTS DESCRIBED.—Both unified ap- (i) by striking ‘‘who have’’ and inserting rolled in both the specialized MA plan and a ‘‘who— peals and unified grievance procedures shall in- Medicaid managed care organization (as defined clude, as applicable, the following elements de- ‘‘(I) before January 1, 2022, have’’; in section 1903(m)(1)(A)) providing long term (ii) in subclause (I), as added by clause (i), by scribed in this clause: services and supports or behavioral health serv- striking the period at the end and inserting ‘‘; ‘‘(I) Single written notification of all applica- ices that have the same parent organization, the and’’; and ble grievances and appeal rights under this title parent organization offering both the special- (iii) by adding at the end the following new and title XIX. For purposes of this subpara- ized MA plan and the Medicaid managed care subclause: graph, the Secretary may waive the require- plan must assume clinical and financial respon- ‘‘(II) on or after January 1, 2022, have one or ments under section 1852(g)(1)(B) when the spe- sibility for benefits provided under this title and more comorbid and medically complex chronic cialized MA plan covers items or services under title XIX.’’. conditions that is life threatening or signifi- this part or under title XIX. (2) CONFORMING AMENDMENT TO RESPONSIBIL- cantly limits overall health or function, have a ‘‘(II) Single pathways for resolution of any ITIES OF FEDERAL COORDINATED HEALTH CARE high risk of hospitalization or other adverse grievance or appeal related to a particular item OFFICE.—Section 2602(d) of the Patient Protec- health outcomes, and require intensive care co- or service provided by specialized MA plans for tion and Affordable Care Act (42 U.S.C. ordination and that is listed under subsection special needs individuals described in subsection 1315b(d)) is amended by adding at the end the (f)(9)(A).’’. (b)(6)(B)(ii) under this title and title XIX. following new paragraphs: (B) PANEL OF CLINICAL ADVISORS.—Section ‘‘(III) Notices written in plain language and ‘‘(6) To act as a designated contact for States 1859(f) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. available in a language and format that is ac- under subsection (f)(8)(A) of section 1859 of the 1395w–28(f)), as amended by subsection (b), is cessible to the enrollee, including in non-English Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–28) with re- amended by adding at the end the following languages that are prevalent in the service area spect to the integration of specialized MA plans new paragraph: of the specialized MA plan. for special needs individuals described in sub- ‘‘(9) LIST OF CONDITIONS FOR CLARIFICATION ‘‘(IV) Unified timeframes for grievances and section (b)(6)(B)(ii) of such section. OF THE DEFINITION OF A SEVERE OR DISABLING appeals processes, such as an individual’s filing ‘‘(7) To be responsible for developing regula- CHRONIC CONDITIONS SPECIALIZED NEEDS INDI- of a grievance or appeal, a plan’s acknowledg- tions and guidance related to the implementa- VIDUAL.— ment and resolution of a grievance or appeal, tion of a unified grievance and appeals process ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Not later than December and notification of decisions with respect to a as described in subparagraphs (B) and (C) of 31, 2020, and every 5 years thereafter, the Sec- grievance or appeal. section 1859(f)(8) of the Social Security Act (42 retary shall convene a panel of clinical advisors ‘‘(V) Requirements for how the plan must U.S.C. 1395w–28(f)(8)).’’. to establish and update a list of conditions that process, track, and resolve grievances and ap- (c) IMPROVEMENTS TO SEVERE OR DISABLING meet each of the following criteria: peals, to ensure beneficiaries are notified on a CHRONIC CONDITION SNPS.— ‘‘(i) Conditions that meet the definition of a timely basis of decisions that are made through- (1) CARE MANAGEMENT REQUIREMENTS.—Sec- severe or disabling chronic condition under sub- out the grievance or appeals process and are tion 1859(f)(5) of the Social Security Act (42 section (b)(6)(B)(iii) on or after January 1, 2022. able to easily determine the status of a griev- U.S.C. 1395w–28(f)(5)) is amended— ‘‘(ii) Conditions that require prescription ance or appeal. (A) by striking ‘‘ALL SNPS.—The require- drugs, providers, and models of care that are ‘‘(iv) CONTINUATION OF BENEFITS PENDING AP- ments’’ and inserting ‘‘ALL SNPS.— unique to the specific population of enrollees in PEAL.—The unified procedures under clause (i) ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Subject to subparagraph a specialized MA plan for special needs individ- shall, with respect to all benefits under parts A (B), the requirements’’; uals described in such subsection on or after and B and title XIX subject to appeal under (B) by redesignating subparagraphs (A) and such date and— such procedures, incorporate provisions under (B) as clauses (i) and (ii), respectively, and in- ‘‘(I) as a result of access to, and enrollment current law and implementing regulations that denting appropriately; in, such a specialized MA plan for special needs provide continuation of benefits pending appeal (C) in clause (ii), as redesignated by subpara- individuals, individuals with such condition under this title and title XIX. graph (B), by redesignating clauses (i) through would have a reasonable expectation of slowing ‘‘(C) REQUIREMENT FOR UNIFIED GRIEVANCES (iii) as subclauses (I) through (III), respectively, or halting the progression of the disease, im- AND APPEALS.—For 2021 and subsequent years, and indenting appropriately; and proving health outcomes and decreasing overall the contract of a specialized MA plan for special (D) by adding at the end the following new costs for individuals diagnosed with such condi- needs individuals described in subsection subparagraph: tion compared to available options of care other (b)(6)(B)(ii) with a State Medicaid agency under ‘‘(B) IMPROVEMENTS TO CARE MANAGEMENT than through such a specialized MA plan for paragraph (3)(D) shall require the use of unified REQUIREMENTS FOR SEVERE OR DISABLING CHRON- special needs individuals; or grievances and appeals procedures as described IC CONDITION SNPS.—For 2020 and subsequent ‘‘(II) have a low prevalence in the general in subparagraph (B). years, in the case of a specialized MA plan for population of beneficiaries under this title or a

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ENROLLEES. panel shall take into account the availability of (B) The types of such specialized MA plans, (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1852(a)(3) of the So- varied benefits, cost-sharing, and supplemental which may include the following: cial Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–22(a)(3)) is benefits under the model described in paragraph (i) A plan described in section amended— (2) of section 1859(h), including the expansion 1853(a)(1)(B)(iv)(II) of such Act (42 U.S.C. (1) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘Each’’ under paragraph (1) of such section.’’. 1395w–23(a)(1)(B)(iv)(II)). and inserting ‘‘Subject to subparagraph (D), (d) QUALITY MEASUREMENT AT THE PLAN (ii) A plan that meets the requirements de- each’’; and LEVEL FOR SNPS AND DETERMINATION OF scribed in subsection (f)(3)(D) of such section (2) by adding at the end the following new FEASABILITY OF QUALITY MEASUREMENT AT THE 1859. subparagraph: PLAN LEVEL FOR ALL MA PLANS.—Section (iii) A plan described in clause (ii) that also ‘‘(D) EXPANDING SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS TO 1853(o) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. meets additional requirements established by the MEET THE NEEDS OF CHRONICALLY ILL ENROLL- 1395w–23(o)) is amended by adding at the end State. EES.— the following new paragraphs: (C) The characteristics of individuals enrolled ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—For plan year 2020 and sub- ‘‘(6) QUALITY MEASUREMENT AT THE PLAN in such specialized MA plans. sequent plan years, in addition to any supple- LEVEL FOR SNPS.— (D) As practicable, the following with respect mental health care benefits otherwise provided ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Subject to subparagraph to State programs for the delivery of long term under this paragraph, an MA plan may provide (B), the Secretary may require reporting of data services and supports under such title XIX supplemental benefits described in clause (ii) to under section 1852(e) for, and apply under this through a managed care program: a chronically ill enrollee (as defined in clause subsection, quality measures at the plan level (i) Which populations of individuals are eligi- (iii)). for specialized MA plans for special needs indi- ble to receive such services and supports. ‘‘(ii) SUPPLEMENTAL BENEFITS DESCRIBED.— viduals instead of at the contract level. (ii) Whether all such services and supports are ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—Supplemental benefits de- ‘‘(B) CONSIDERATIONS.—Prior to applying provided on a capitated basis or if any of such scribed in this clause are supplemental benefits quality measurement at the plan level under this services and supports are carved out and pro- that, with respect to a chronically ill enrollee, paragraph, the Secretary shall— vided through fee-for-service. have a reasonable expectation of improving or ‘‘(i) take into consideration the minimum (E) How the availability and variation of inte- maintaining the health or overall function of number of enrollees in a specialized MA plan for gration arrangements of such specialized MA the chronically ill enrollee and may not be lim- special needs individuals in order to determine if plans offered in States affects spending, service ited to being primarily health related benefits. a statistically significant or valid measurement delivery options, access to community-based ‘‘(II) AUTHORITY TO WAIVE UNIFORMITY RE- of quality at the plan level is possible under this care, and utilization of care. paragraph; QUIREMENTS.—The Secretary may, only with re- (F) The efforts of State Medicaid programs to spect to supplemental benefits provided to a ‘‘(ii) take into consideration the impact of transition dually-eligible beneficiaries receiving such application on plans that serve a dis- chronically ill enrollee under this subpara- long term services and supports (LTSS) from in- graph, waive the uniformity requirement under proportionate number of individuals dually eli- stitutional settings to home and community- gible for benefits under this title and under title subsection (d)(1)(A), as determined appropriate based settings and related financial impacts of by the Secretary. XIX; such transitions ‘‘(iii) CHRONICALLY ILL ENROLLEE DEFINED.— ‘‘(iii) if quality measures are reported at the (2) REPORT.—Not later than 2 years after the In this subparagraph, the term ‘chronically ill plan level, ensure that MA plans are not re- date of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- enrollee’ means an enrollee in an MA plan that quired to provide duplicative information; troller General shall submit to Congress a report the Secretary determines— ‘‘(iv) ensure that such reporting does not containing the results of the study conducted ‘‘(I) has one or more comorbid and medically interfere with the collection of encounter data under paragraph (1), together with rec- complex chronic conditions that is life threat- submitted by MA organizations or the adminis- ommendations for such legislation and adminis- ening or significantly limits the overall health tration of any changes to the program under trative action as the Comptroller General deter- or function of the enrollee; this part as a result of the collection of such mines appropriate. data. ‘‘(II) has a high risk of hospitalization or ‘‘(C) APPLICATION.—If the Secretary applies TITLE III—EXPANDING INNOVATION AND other adverse health outcomes; and quality measurement at the plan level under this TECHNOLOGY ‘‘(III) requires intensive care coordination.’’. paragraph, such quality measurement may in- SEC. 301. ADAPTING BENEFITS TO MEET THE (b) GAO STUDY AND REPORT.— NEEDS OF CHRONICALLY ILL MEDI- clude Medicare Health Outcomes Survey (HOS), (1) STUDY.—The Comptroller General of the CARE ADVANTAGE ENROLLEES. Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information United States (in this subsection referred to as Section 1859 of the Social Security Act (42 Set (HEDIS), Consumer Assessment of the ‘‘Comptroller General’’) shall conduct a U.S.C. 1395w–28) is amended by adding at the Healthcare Providers and Systems (CAHPS) study on supplemental benefits provided to en- end the following new subsection: measures and quality measures under part D. rollees in Medicare Advantage plans under part ‘‘(h) NATIONAL TESTING OF MODEL FOR MEDI- ‘‘(7) DETERMINATION OF FEASIBILITY OF QUAL- C of title XVIII of the Social Security Act. To CARE ADVANTAGE VALUE-BASED INSURANCE DE- ITY MEASUREMENT AT THE PLAN LEVEL FOR ALL the extend data are available, such study shall SIGN.— MA PLANS.— include an analysis of the following: ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In implementing the model ‘‘(A) DETERMINATION OF FEASIBILITY.—The (A) The type of supplemental benefits pro- described in paragraph (2) proposed to be tested Secretary shall determine the feasibility of re- vided to such enrollees, the total number of en- under section 1115A(b), the Secretary shall requiring reporting of data under section 1852(e) rollees receiving each supplemental benefit, and vise the testing of the model under such section for, and applying under this subsection, quality whether the supplemental benefit is covered by to cover, effective not later than January 1, measures at the plan level for all MA plans the standard benchmark cost of the benefit or 2020, all States. under this part. with an additional premium. ‘‘(B) CONSIDERATION OF CHANGE.—After mak- ‘‘(2) MODEL DESCRIBED.—The model described (B) The frequency in which supplemental ben- ing a determination under subparagraph (A), in this paragraph is the testing of a model of efits are utilized by such enrollees. the Secretary shall consider requiring such re- Medicare Advantage value-based insurance de- porting and applying such quality measures at sign that would allow Medicare Advantage (C) The impact supplemental benefits have the plan level as described in such subpara- plans the option to propose and design benefit on— graph.’’. structures that vary benefits, cost-sharing, and (i) indicators of the quality of care received by (e) GAO STUDY AND REPORT ON STATE-LEVEL supplemental benefits offered to enrollees with such enrollees, including overall health and INTEGRATION BETWEEN DUAL SNPS AND MED- specific chronic diseases proposed to be carried function of the enrollees; ICAID.— out in Oregon, Arizona, Texas, Iowa, Michigan, (ii) the utilization of items and services for (1) STUDY.—The Comptroller General of the Indiana, Tennessee, Alabama, Pennsylvania, which benefits are available under the original United States (in this paragraph referred to as and Massachusetts. Medicare fee-for-service program option under the ‘‘Comptroller General’’) shall conduct a ‘‘(3) TERMINATION AND MODIFICATION PROVI- parts A and B of such title XVIII by such en- study on State-level integration between special- SION NOT APPLICABLE UNTIL JANUARY 1, 2022.— rollees; and ized MA plans for special needs individuals de- The provisions of section 1115A(b)(3)(B) shall (iii) the amount of the bids submitted by Medi- scribed in subsection (b)(6)(B)(ii) of section 1859 apply to the model described in paragraph (2), care Advantage Organizations for Medicare Ad- of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–28) including such model as expanded under para- vantage plans under such part C. and the Medicaid program under title XIX of graph (1), beginning January 1, 2022, but shall (2) REPORT.—Not later than 5 years after the such Act (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.). Such study not apply to such model, as so expanded, prior date of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- shall include an analysis of the following: to such date. troller General shall submit to Congress a report (A) The characteristics of States in which the ‘‘(4) FUNDING.—The Secretary shall allocate containing the results of the study conducted State agency responsible for administering the funds made available under section 1115A(f)(1) under paragraph (1), together with rec- State plan under such title XIX has a contract to design, implement, and evaluate the model ommendations for such legislation and adminis- with such a specialized MA plan and that deliv- described in paragraph (2), as expanded under trative action as the Comptroller General deter- ers long term services and supports under the paragraph (1).’’. mines appropriate.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.049 S26SEPT1 S6150 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 SEC. 303. INCREASING CONVENIENCE FOR MEDI- years, the provision of additional telehealth 102(b)(2), is amended by adding at the end the CARE ADVANTAGE ENROLLEES benefits as described in section 1852(m)’’ before following new paragraph: THROUGH TELEHEALTH. the semicolon at the end. ‘‘(6) TREATMENT OF STROKE TELEHEALTH SERV- N ENERAL (a) I G .—Section 1852 of the Social SEC. 304. PROVIDING ACCOUNTABLE CARE ORGA- ICES.— Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w–22) is amended— NIZATIONS THE ABILITY TO EXPAND ‘‘(A) NON-APPLICATION OF ORIGINATING SITE (1) in subsection (a)(1)(B)(i), by inserting ‘‘, THE USE OF TELEHEALTH. REQUIREMENTS.—The requirements described in subject to subsection (m),’’ after ‘‘means’’; and (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1899 of the Social paragraph (4)(C) shall not apply with respect to (2) by adding at the end the following new Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395jjj) is amended by telehealth services furnished on or after Janu- subsection: adding at the end the following new subsection: ary 1, 2021, for purposes of evaluation of an ‘‘(m) PROVISION OF ADDITIONAL TELEHEALTH ‘‘(l) PROVIDING ACOS THE ABILITY TO EXPAND acute stroke, as determined by the Secretary. BENEFITS.— THE USE OF TELEHEALTH SERVICES.— ‘‘(B) NO ORIGINATING SITE FACILITY FEE.—In ‘‘(1) MA PLAN OPTION.—For plan year 2020 ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In the case of telehealth the case of an originating site that does not and subsequent plan years, subject to the re- services for which payment would otherwise be meet the requirements described in paragraph quirements of paragraph (3), an MA plan may made under this title furnished on or after Jan- (4)(C), he Secretary shall not pay an originating provide additional telehealth benefits (as de- uary 1, 2020, for purposes of this subsection site facility fee (as described in paragraph fined in paragraph (2)) to individuals enrolled only, the following shall apply with respect to (2)(B)) to the originating site with respect to under this part. such services furnished by a physician or practi- such telehealth services.’’. ‘‘(2) ADDITIONAL TELEHEALTH BENEFITS DE- tioner participating in an applicable ACO (as TITLE IV—IDENTIFYING THE FINED.— defined in paragraph (2)) to a Medicare fee-for- CHRONICALLY ILL POPULATION ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of this sub- service beneficiary assigned to the applicable section and section 1854: ACO: SEC. 401. PROVIDING FLEXIBILITY FOR BENE- FICIARIES TO BE PART OF AN AC- ‘‘(i) DEFINITION.—The term ‘additional tele- ‘‘(A) INCLUSION OF HOME AS ORIGINATING health benefits’ means services— COUNTABLE CARE ORGANIZATION. SITE.—Subject to paragraph (3), the home of a Section 1899(c) of the Social Security Act (42 ‘‘(I) for which benefits are available under beneficiary shall be treated as an originating part B, including services for which payment is U.S.C. 1395jjj(c)) is amended— site described in section 1834(m)(4)(C)(ii). (1) by redesignating paragraphs (1) and (2) as not made under section 1834(m) due to the con- ‘‘(B) NO APPLICATION OF GEOGRAPHIC LIMITA- subparagraphs (A) and (B), respectively, and ditions for payment under such section; and TION.—The geographic limitation under section indenting appropriately; ‘‘(II) that are identified as clinically appro- 1834(m)(4)(C)(i) shall not apply with respect to (2) by striking ‘‘ACOS.—The Secretary’’ and priate to furnish using electronic information an originating site described in section inserting ‘‘ACOS.— and telecommunications technology when a 1834(m)(4)(C)(ii) (including the home of a bene- physician (as defined in section 1861(r)) or prac- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraph (2), ficiary under subparagraph (A)), subject to the Secretary’’; and titioner (described in section 1842(b)(18)(C)) pro- State licensing requirements. viding the service is not at the same location as (3) by adding at the end the following new ‘‘(2) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection: paragraph: the plan enrollee. ‘‘(A) APPLICABLE ACO.—The term ‘applicable ‘‘(2) PROVIDING FLEXIBILITY.— ‘‘(ii) EXCLUSION OF CAPITAL AND INFRASTRUC- ACO’ means an ACO participating in a model ‘‘(A) CHOICE OF PROSPECTIVE ASSIGNMENT.— TURE COSTS AND INVESTMENTS.—The term ‘addi- tested or expanded under section 1115A or under For each agreement period (effective for agree- tional telehealth benefits’ does not include cap- this section— ital and infrastructure costs and investments re- ments entered into or renewed on or after Janu- ‘‘(i) that operates under a two-sided model— ary 1, 2020), in the case where an ACO estab- lating to such benefits. ‘‘(I) described in section 425.600(a) of title 42, lished under the program is in a Track that pro- ‘‘(B) PUBLIC COMMENT.—Not later than No- Code of Federal Regulations; or vides for the retrospective assignment of Medi- vember 30, 2018, the Secretary shall solicit com- ‘‘(II) tested or expanded under section 1115A; care fee-for-service beneficiaries to the ACO, the ments on— and Secretary shall permit the ACO to choose to ‘‘(i) what types of items and services (includ- ‘‘(ii) for which Medicare fee-for-service bene- have Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries as- ing those provided through supplemental health ficiaries are assigned to the ACO using a pro- signed prospectively, rather than retrospec- care benefits) should be considered to be addi- spective assignment method, as determined ap- tively, to the ACO for an agreement period. tional telehealth benefits; and propriate by the Secretary. ‘‘(B) ASSIGNMENT BASED ON VOLUNTARY IDEN- ‘‘(ii) the requirements for the provision or fur- ‘‘(B) HOME.—The term ‘home’ means, with re- TIFICATION BY MEDICARE FEE-FOR-SERVICE BENE- nishing of such benefits (such as licensure, spect to a Medicare fee-for-service beneficiary, FICIARIES.— training, and coordination requirements). the place of residence used as the home of the ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—For performance year 2018 ‘‘(3) REQUIREMENTS FOR ADDITIONAL TELE- beneficiary. and each subsequent performance year, if a sys- HEALTH BENEFITS.—The Secretary shall specify ‘‘(3) TELEHEALTH SERVICES RECEIVED IN THE tem is available for electronic designation, the requirements for the provision or furnishing of HOME.—In the case of telehealth services de- additional telehealth benefits, including with scribed in paragraph (1) where the home of a Secretary shall permit a Medicare fee-for-service respect to the following: Medicare fee-for-service beneficiary is the origi- beneficiary to voluntarily identify an ACO pro- ‘‘(A) Physician or practitioner licensure and nating site, the following shall apply: fessional as the primary care provider of the beneficiary for purposes of assigning such bene- other requirements such as specific training. ‘‘(A) NO FACILITY FEE.—There shall be no fa- ‘‘(B) Factors necessary to ensure the coordi- cility fee paid to the originating site under sec- ficiary to an ACO, as determined by the Sec- nation of such benefits with items and services tion 1834(m)(2)(B). retary. ‘‘(ii) NOTIFICATION PROCESS.—The Secretary furnished in-person. ‘‘(B) EXCLUSION OF CERTAIN SERVICES.—No ‘‘(C) Such other areas as determined by the payment may be made for such services that are shall establish a process under which a Medi- Secretary. inappropriate to furnish in the home setting care fee-for-service beneficiary is— ‘‘(4) ENROLLEE CHOICE.—If an MA plan pro- such as services that are typically furnished in ‘‘(I) notified of their ability to make an identi- vides a service as an additional telehealth ben- inpatient settings such as a hospital.’’. fication described in clause (i); and ‘‘(II) informed of the process by which they efit (as defined in paragraph (2))— (b) STUDY AND REPORT.— ‘‘(A) the MA plan shall also provide access to (1) STUDY.— may make and change such identification. such benefit through an in-person visit (and not (A) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Health and ‘‘(iii) SUPERSEDING CLAIMS-BASED ASSIGN- only as an additional telehealth benefit); and Human Services (in this subsection referred to MENT.—A voluntary identification by a Medi- ‘‘(B) an individual enrollee shall have discre- as the ‘‘Secretary’’) shall conduct a study on care fee-for-service beneficiary under this sub- tion as to whether to receive such service the implementation of section 1899(l) of the So- paragraph shall supersede any claims-based as- through the in-person visit or as an additional cial Security Act, as added by subsection (a). signment otherwise determined by the Sec- telehealth benefit. Such study shall include an analysis of the uti- retary.’’. ‘‘(5) TREATMENT UNDER MA.—For purposes of lization of, and expenditures for, telehealth TITLE V—EMPOWERING INDIVIDUALS AND this subsection and section 1854, additional tele- services under such section. CAREGIVERS IN CARE DELIVERY health benefits shall be treated as if they were (B) COLLECTION OF DATA.—The Secretary may SEC. 501. ELIMINATING BARRIERS TO CARE CO- benefits under the original Medicare fee-for- collect such data as the Secretary determines ORDINATION UNDER ACCOUNTABLE service program option. necessary to carry out the study under this CARE ORGANIZATIONS. ‘‘(6) CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this subparagraph. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1899 of the Social section shall be construed as affecting the re- (2) REPORT.—Not later than January 1, 2026, Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395jjj), as amended by quirement under subsection (a)(1) that MA the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report section 304(a), is amended— plans provide enrollees with items and services containing the results of the study conducted (1) in subsection (b)(2), by adding at the end (other than hospice care) for which benefits are under paragraph (1), together with rec- the following new subparagraph: available under parts A and B, including bene- ommendations for such legislation and adminis- ‘‘(I) An ACO that seeks to operate an ACO fits available under section 1834(m).’’. trative action as the Secretary determines ap- Beneficiary Incentive Program pursuant to sub- (b) CLARIFICATION REGARDING INCLUSION IN propriate. section (m) shall apply to the Secretary at such BID AMOUNT.—Section 1854(a)(6)(A)(ii)(I) of the SEC. 305. EXPANDING THE USE OF TELEHEALTH time, in such manner, and with such informa- Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w– FOR INDIVIDUALS WITH STROKE. tion as the Secretary may require.’’; 24(a)(6)(A)(ii)(I)) is amended by inserting ‘‘, in- Section 1834(m) of the Social Security Act (42 (2) by adding at the end the following new cluding, for plan year 2020 and subsequent plan U.S.C. 1395m(m)), as amended by section subsection:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.049 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6151

‘‘(m) AUTHORITY TO PROVIDE INCENTIVE PAY- described in clause (i) or (ii) of subparagraph for such legislation and administrative action as MENTS TO BENEFICIARIES WITH RESPECT TO (B). the Secretary determines appropriate. QUALIFYING PRIMARY CARE SERVICES.— ‘‘(E) NO SEPARATE PAYMENTS FROM THE SEC- SEC. 502. GAO STUDY AND REPORT ON LONGITU- ‘‘(1) PROGRAM.— RETARY.—The Secretary shall not make any sep- DINAL COMPREHENSIVE CARE PLAN- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—In order to encourage arate payment to an ACO for the costs, includ- NING SERVICES UNDER MEDICARE Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries to obtain ing incentive payments, of carrying out an ACO PART B. medically necessary primary care services, an Beneficiary Incentive Program established (a) STUDY.—The Comptroller General shall ACO participating under this section under a under this subsection. Nothing in this subpara- conduct a study on the establishment under payment model described in clause (i) or (ii) of graph shall be construed as prohibiting an ACO part B of the Medicare program under title paragraph (2)(B) may apply to establish an from using shared savings received under this XVIII of the Social Security Act of a payment ACO Beneficiary Incentive Program to provide section to carry out an ACO Beneficiary Incen- code for a visit for longitudinal comprehensive incentive payments to such beneficiaries who tive Program. care planning services. Such study shall include are furnished qualifying services in accordance ‘‘(F) NO APPLICATION TO SHARED SAVINGS CAL- an analysis of the following to the extent such with this subsection. The Secretary shall permit CULATION.—Incentive payments made by an information is available: such an ACO to establish such a program at the ACO under this subsection shall be disregarded (1) The frequency with which services similar Secretary’s discretion and subject to such re- for purposes of calculating benchmarks, esti- to longitudinal comprehensive care planning quirements, including program integrity require- mated average per capita Medicare expendi- services are furnished to Medicare beneficiaries, ments, as the Secretary determines necessary. tures, and shared savings under this section. which providers of services and suppliers are ‘‘(B) IMPLEMENTATION.—The Secretary shall ‘‘(G) REPORTING REQUIREMENTS.—An ACO furnishing those services, whether Medicare re- implement this subsection on a date determined conducting an ACO Beneficiary Incentive Pro- imbursement is being received for those services, appropriate by the Secretary. Such date shall be gram under this subsection shall, at such times and, if so, through which codes those services no earlier than January 1, 2019, and no later and in such format as the Secretary may re- are being reimbursed. than January 1, 2020. quire, report to the Secretary such information (2) Whether, and the extent to which, longitu- ‘‘(2) CONDUCT OF PROGRAM.— and retain such documentation as the Secretary dinal comprehensive care planning services ‘‘(A) DURATION.—Subject to subparagraph may require, including the amount and fre- would overlap, and could therefore result in du- (H), an ACO Beneficiary Incentive Program es- quency of incentive payments made and the plicative payment, with services covered under tablished under this subsection shall be con- number of Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries the hospice benefit as well as the chronic care ducted for such period (of not less than 1 year) receiving such payments. management code, evaluation and management as the Secretary may approve. ‘‘(H) TERMINATION.—The Secretary may ter- codes, or other codes that already exist under ‘‘(B) SCOPE.—An ACO Beneficiary Incentive minate an ACO Beneficiary Incentive Program part B of the Medicare program. Program established under this subsection shall established under this subsection at any time for (3) Any barriers to hospitals, skilled nursing provide incentive payments to all of the fol- reasons determined appropriate by the Sec- facilities, hospice programs, home health agen- lowing Medicare fee-for-service beneficiaries retary. cies, and other applicable providers working who are furnished qualifying services by the ‘‘(3) EXCLUSION OF INCENTIVE PAYMENTS.— with a Medicare beneficiary to engage in the ACO: Any payment made under an ACO Beneficiary care planning process and complete the nec- ‘‘(i) With respect to the Track 2 and Track 3 Incentive Program established under this sub- essary documentation to support the treatment payment models described in section 425.600(a) section shall not be considered income or re- and care plan of the beneficiary and provide of title 42, Code of Federal Regulations (or in sources or otherwise taken into account for pur- such documentation to other providers and the any successor regulation), Medicare fee-for- poses of— beneficiary or the beneficiary’s representative. service beneficiaries who are preliminarily pro- ‘‘(A) determining eligibility for benefits or as- (4) Any barriers to providers, other than the spectively or prospectively assigned (or other- sistance (or the amount or extent of benefits or provider furnishing longitudinal comprehensive wise assigned, as determined by the Secretary) assistance) under any Federal program or under care planning services, accessing the care plan to the ACO. any State or local program financed in whole or and associated documentation for use related to ‘‘(ii) With respect to any future payment mod- in part with Federal funds; or the care of the Medicare beneficiary. els involving two-sided risk, Medicare fee-for- ‘‘(B) any Federal or State laws relating to (5) Potential options for ensuring that appli- service beneficiaries who are assigned to the taxation.’’; cable providers are notified of a patient’s exist- ACO, as determined by the Secretary. (3) in subsection (e), by inserting ‘‘, including ing longitudinal care plan and that applicable ‘‘(C) QUALIFYING SERVICE.—For purposes of an ACO Beneficiary Incentive Program under providers consider that plan in making their this subsection, a qualifying service is a primary subsections (b)(2)(I) and (m)’’ after ‘‘the pro- treatment decisions, and what the challenges care service, as defined in section 425.20 of title gram’’; and might be in implementing such options. 42, Code of Federal Regulations (or in any suc- (4) in subsection (g)(6), by inserting ‘‘or of an (6) Stakeholder’s views on the need for the de- cessor regulation), with respect to which coin- ACO Beneficiary Incentive Program under sub- velopment of quality metrics with respect to lon- surance applies under part B, furnished sections (b)(2)(I) and (m)’’ after ‘‘under sub- gitudinal comprehensive care planning services, through an ACO by— such as measures related to— ‘‘(i) an ACO professional described in subsection (d)(4)’’. MENDMENT TO SECTION 1128B.—Section (A) the process of eliciting input from the section (h)(1)(A) who has a primary care spe- (b) A 1128B(b)(3) of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. Medicare beneficiary or from a legally author- cialty designation included in the definition of 1320a–7b(b)(3)) is amended— ized representative and documenting in the med- primary care physician under section 425.20 of (1) by striking ‘‘and’’ at the end of subpara- ical record the patient-directed care plan; title 42, Code of Federal Regulations (or any graph (I); (B) the effectiveness and patient-centeredness successor regulation); (2) by striking the period at the end of sub- of the care plan in organizing delivery of serv- ‘‘(ii) an ACO professional described in sub- ices consistent with the plan; section (h)(1)(B); or paragraph (J) and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and (3) by adding at the end the following new (C) the availability of the care plan and asso- ‘‘(iii) a Federally qualified health center or ciated documentation to other providers that rural health clinic (as such terms are defined in subparagraph: ‘‘(K) an incentive payment made to a Medi- care for the beneficiary; and section 1861(aa)). (D) the extent to which the beneficiary re- ‘‘(D) INCENTIVE PAYMENTS.—An incentive care fee-for-service beneficiary by an ACO under an ACO Beneficiary Incentive Program ceived services and support that is free from dis- payment made by an ACO pursuant to an ACO crimination based on advanced age, disability Beneficiary Incentive Program established established under subsection (m) of section 1899, if the payment is made in accordance with the status, or advanced illness. under this subsection shall be— (7) Stakeholder’s views on how such quality requirements of such subsection and meets such ‘‘(i) in an amount up to $20, with such max- metrics would provide information on— imum amount updated annually by the percent- other conditions as the Secretary may estab- (A) the goals, values, and preferences of the age increase in the consumer price index for all lish.’’. beneficiary; urban consumers (United States city average) (c) EVALUATION AND REPORT.— (B) the documentation of the care plan; for the 12-month period ending with June of the (1) EVALUATION.—The Secretary of Health (C) services furnished to the beneficiary; and previous year; and Human Services (in this subsection referred (D) outcomes of treatment. ‘‘(ii) in the same amount for each Medicare to as the ‘‘Secretary’’) shall conduct an evalua- (8) Stakeholder’s views on— fee-for-service beneficiary described in clause (i) tion of the ACO Beneficiary Incentive Program (A) the type of training and education needed or (ii) of subparagraph (B) without regard to established under subsections (b)(2)(I) and (m) for applicable providers, individuals, and care- enrollment of such a beneficiary in a medicare of section 1899 of the Social Security Act (42 givers in order to facilitate longitudinal com- supplemental policy (described in section U.S.C. 1395jjj), as added by subsection (a). The prehensive care planning services; 1882(g)(1)), in a State Medicaid plan under title evaluation shall include an analysis of the im- (B) the types of providers of services and sup- XIX or a waiver of such a plan, or in any other pact of the implementation of the Program on pliers that should be included in the inter- health insurance policy or health benefit plan; expenditures and beneficiary health outcomes disciplinary team of an applicable provider; and ‘‘(iii) made for each qualifying service fur- under title XVIII of the Social Security Act (42 (C) the characteristics of Medicare bene- nished to such a beneficiary described in clause U.S.C. 1395 et seq.). ficiaries that would be most appropriate to re- (i) or (ii) of subparagraph (B) during a period (2) REPORT.—Not later than October 1, 2023, ceive longitudinal comprehensive care planning specified by the Secretary; and the Secretary shall submit to Congress a report services, such as individuals with advanced dis- ‘‘(iv) made no later than 30 days after a quali- containing the results of the evaluation under ease and individuals who need assistance with fying service is furnished to such a beneficiary paragraph (1), together with recommendations multiple activities of daily living.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.049 S26SEPT1 S6152 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 (9) Stakeholder’s views on the frequency with ‘‘(iii) For any other purpose determined ap- who have such drugs covered through an MA– which longitudinal comprehensive care plan- propriate by the Secretary. PD plan (as defined in section 1860D–1(a)(3)(C) ning services should be furnished. ‘‘(C) LIMITATIONS ON DATA USE.—A PDP spon- of the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395w– (b) REPORT.—Not later than 18 months after sor shall not use data provided to the sponsor 101(a)(3)(C))) as a supplemental health care the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- pursuant to subparagraph (A) for any of the benefit. The study shall include an analysis of troller General shall submit to Congress a report following purposes: the following: containing the results of the study conducted ‘‘(i) To inform coverage determinations under (1) The prevalence of obesity in the Medicare under subsection (a), together with rec- this part. and non-Medicare population. ommendations for such legislation and adminis- ‘‘(ii) To conduct retroactive reviews of medi- (2) The utilization of obesity drugs. trative action as the Comptroller General deter- cally accepted indications determinations. (3) The distribution of Body Mass Index by in- mines appropriate. ‘‘(iii) To facilitate enrollment changes to a dif- dividuals taking obesity drugs, to the extent (c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: ferent prescription drug plan or an MA-PD plan practicable. (1) APPLICABLE PROVIDER.—The term ‘‘appli- offered by the same parent organization. (4) What is known about the use of obesity cable provider’’ means a hospice program (as de- ‘‘(iv) To inform marketing of benefits. drugs in conjunction with the receipt of other fined in subsection (dd)(2) of section 1861 of the ‘‘(v) For any other purpose that the Secretary items or services, such as behavioral counseling, Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1395ww)) or other determines is necessary to include in order to and how these compare to items and services re- provider of services (as defined in subsection (u) protect the identity of individuals entitled to, or ceived by obese individuals who do not take obe- of such section) or supplier (as defined in sub- enrolled for, benefits under this title and to pro- sity drugs. section (d) of such section) that— tect the security of personal health information (5) Physician considerations and attitudes re- (A) furnishes longitudinal comprehensive care ‘‘(D) DATA DESCRIBED.—The data described in lated to prescribing obesity drugs. planning services through an interdisciplinary this clause are standardized extracts (as deter- (6) The extent to which coverage policies cease team; and mined by the Secretary) of claims data under or limit coverage for individuals who fail to re- (B) meets such other requirements as the Sec- parts A and B for items and services furnished ceive clinical benefit. retary may determine to be appropriate. under such parts for time periods specified by (7) What is known about the extent to which (2) COMPTROLLER GENERAL.—The term the Secretary. Such data shall include data as individuals who take obesity drugs adhere to ‘‘Comptroller General’’ means the Comptroller current as practicable.’’. the prescribed regimen. General of the United States. SEC. 602. GAO STUDY AND REPORT ON IMPROV- (8) What is known about the extent to which (3) INTERDISCIPLINARY TEAM.—The term ING MEDICATION SYNCHRONI- individuals who take obesity drugs maintain ‘‘interdisciplinary team’’ means a group that— ZATION. weight loss over time. (A) includes the personnel described in sub- (a) STUDY.—The Comptroller General of the (9) What is known about the subsequent im- section (dd)(2)(B)(i) of such section 1861; United States (in this section referred to as the pact such drugs have on medical services that (B) may include a chaplain, minister, or other ‘‘Comptroller General’’) shall conduct a study are directly related to obesity, including with re- clergy; and on the extent to which Medicare prescription spect to subpopulations determined based on the (C) may include other direct care personnel. drug plans (MA–PD plans and standalone pre- extent of obesity. (4) LONGITUDINAL COMPREHENSIVE CARE PLAN- scription drug plans) under part D of title XVIII (10) What is known about the spending associ- NING SERVICES.—The term ‘‘longitudinal com- of the Social Security Act and private payors ated with the care of individuals who take obe- prehensive care planning services’’ means a vol- use programs that synchronize pharmacy dis- sity drugs, compared to the spending associated untary shared decisionmaking process that is pensing so that individuals may receive multiple with the care of individuals who do not take furnished by an applicable provider through an prescriptions on the same day to facilitate com- such drugs. interdisciplinary team and includes a conversa- prehensive counseling and promote medication (b) REPORT.—Not later than 18 months after tion with Medicare beneficiaries who have re- adherence. The study shall include a analysis of the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- ceived a diagnosis of a serious or life-threat- the following: troller General shall submit to Congress a report ening illness. The purpose of such services is to (1) The extent to which pharmacies have containing the results of the study under sub- discuss a longitudinal care plan that addresses adopted such programs. section (a), together with recommendations for the progression of the disease, treatment op- (2) The common characteristics of such pro- such legislation and administrative action as tions, the goals, values, and preferences of the grams, including how pharmacies structure the Comptroller General determines appropriate. beneficiary, and the availability of other re- counseling sessions under such programs and sources and social supports that may reduce the the types of payment and other arrangements SEC. 604. HHS STUDY AND REPORT ON LONG- beneficiary’s health risks and promote self-man- TERM RISK FACTORS FOR CHRONIC that Medicare prescription drug plans and pri- CONDITIONS AMONG MEDICARE agement and shared decisionmaking. vate payors employ under such programs to sup- BENEFICIARIES. (5) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ means port the efforts of pharmacies. (a) STUDY.—The Secretary of Health and the Secretary of Health and Human Services. (3) How such programs compare for Medicare Human Services (in this section referred to as TITLE VI—OTHER POLICIES TO IMPROVE prescription drug plans and private payors. the ‘‘Secretary’’) shall conduct a study on long- CARE FOR THE CHRONICALLY ILL (4) What is known about how such programs term cost drivers to the Medicare program, in- affect patient medication adherence and overall SEC. 601. PROVIDING PRESCRIPTION DRUG cluding obesity, tobacco use, mental health con- PLANS WITH PARTS A AND B CLAIMS patient health outcomes, including if adherence ditions, and other factors that may contribute to DATA TO PROMOTE THE APPRO- and outcomes vary by patient subpopulations, the deterioration of health conditions among in- PRIATE USE OF MEDICATIONS AND such as disease state and socioeconomic status. dividuals with chronic conditions in the Medi- IMPROVE HEALTH OUTCOMES. (5) What is known about overall patient satis- care population. The study shall include an Section 1860D–4(c) of the Social Security Act faction with such programs and satisfaction analysis of any barriers to collecting and ana- (42 U.S.C. 1395w–104(c)) is amended by adding with such programs, including within patient lyzing such information and how to remove any at the end the following new paragraph: subpopulations, such as disease state and socio- such barriers (including through legislation and ‘‘(6) PROVIDING PRESCRIPTION DRUG PLANS economic status. administrative actions). WITH PARTS A AND B CLAIMS DATA TO PROMOTE (6) The extent to which laws and regulations (b) REPORT.—Not later than 18 months after THE APPROPRIATE USE OF MEDICATIONS AND IM- of the Medicare program support such programs. the date of the enactment of this Act, the Sec- PROVE HEALTH OUTCOMES.— (7) Barriers to the use of medication synchro- retary shall submit to Congress a report con- ‘‘(A) PROCESS.—Subject to subparagraph (B), nization programs by Medicare prescription taining the results of the study under subsection the Secretary shall establish a process under drug plans. (a), together with recommendations for such leg- which a PDP sponsor of a prescription drug (b) REPORT.—Not later than 18 months after islation and administrative action as the Sec- plan may submit a request for the Secretary to the date of the enactment of this Act, the Comp- retary determines appropriate. The Secretary provide the sponsor, on a periodic basis and in troller General shall submit to Congress a report shall also post such report on the Internet an electronic format, beginning in plan year containing the results of the study under sub- website of the Department of Health and 2020, data described in subparagraph (D) with section (a), together with recommendations for Human Services. respect to enrollees in such plan. Such data such legislation and administrative action as shall be provided without regard to whether the Comptroller General determines appropriate. TITLE VII—OFFSETS such enrollees are described in clause (ii) of SEC. 603. GAO STUDY AND REPORT ON IMPACT OF SEC. 701. MEDICARE IMPROVEMENT FUND. paragraph (2)(A). OBESITY DRUGS ON PATIENT Section 1898(b)(1) of the Social Security Act ‘‘(B) PURPOSES.—A PDP sponsor may use the HEALTH AND SPENDING. (42 U.S.C. 1395iii(b)(1)) is amended by striking data provided to the sponsor pursuant to sub- (a) STUDY.—The Comptroller General of the ‘‘$270,000,000’’ and inserting ‘‘$0’’. United States (in this section referred to as the paragraph (A) for any of the following pur- SEC. 702. MEDICAID IMPROVEMENT FUND. ‘‘Comptroller General’’) shall, to the extent data poses: Section 1941(b)(1) of the Social Security Act ‘‘(i) To optimize therapeutic outcomes through are available, conduct a study on the use of pre- (42 U.S.C. 1396w–1(b)(1)) is amended by striking improved medication use, as such phrase is used scription drugs to manage the weight of obese ‘‘$5,000,000’’ and inserting ‘‘$0’’. in clause (i) of paragraph (2)(A). patients and the impact of coverage of such ‘‘(ii) To improving care coordination so as to drugs on patient health and on health care Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, today is prevent adverse health outcomes, such as pre- spending. Such study shall examine the use and a big day in the ongoing effort to up- ventable emergency department visits and hos- impact of these obesity drugs in the non-Medi- date and strengthen Medicare’s guar- pital readmissions. care population and for Medicare beneficiaries antee to seniors. Senate passage of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.049 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6153 Finance Committee’s chronic care bill three children, and a handful of job deemed expired, the Journal of the pro- means seniors with multiple chronic changes. Thank you to Karen Fisher, ceedings be approved to date, the time illnesses will have their individual Hannah Hawkins, Kelsey Avery, Leigh for the two leaders be reserved for their needs better met and get the type of Stuckhardt, Liz Jurinka, Beth Vrabel, use later in the day, and morning busi- care they need earlier. and Matt Kazan—our chronic care ness be closed; finally, that following It is my judgment that the Finance lead—all on my team. Chairman leader remarks, the Senate resume Committee has no job more significant HATCH, I thank you for your commit- consideration of the motion to proceed than updating the Medicare guarantee, ment to keep working on this and to to S. 1519. and that is exactly what today is all your staff, including Jay Khosla, Brett The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without about. The CHRONIC Care Act begins a Baker, Jen Kuskowski, Katie Meyer- objection, it is so ordered. transformational change in the way Simeon, and the chronic care lead, Erin f Medicare works for seniors who suffer Dempsey. Thank you also to Senators ORDER FOR ADJOURNMENT from chronic illnesses like cancer, dia- WARNER and ISAKSON for lending us betes, and Alzheimer’s disease. Marvin Figueroa and Jordan Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, if there If you could bring the lawmakers re- Bartolomeo. is no further business to come before sponsible for the creation of Medicare Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask the Senate, I ask unanimous consent into 2017, they would barely recognize unanimous consent that the com- that it stand adjourned under the pre- the program they created more than mittee-reported amendment be agreed vious order, following the remarks half a century ago. Back then, if a sen- to, and the bill, as amended, be consid- from the Senator from Maryland, Mr. ior needed surgery for a broken hip, he ered read a third time. VAN HOLLEN. or she visited a hospital and used Medi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without care Part A. If a senior needed treat- objection, it is so ordered. objection, it is so ordered. ment for a nasty bout of the flu, he or The committee-reported amendment The Senator from Maryland. she visited their doctor and used Part in the nature of a substitute was f B. agreed to. PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN Today, more than 90 percent of the The bill was ordered to be engrossed ISLANDS RECOVERY EFFORT Medicare dollar goes toward seniors for a third reading and was read the who have two or more chronic condi- third time. Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, I tions. Today’s seniors get their care in Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I know want to start by saying a few words a variety of ways. It is not just fee-for- of no further debate on the bill. about what is happening in Puerto service; there are Medicare Advantage, The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there Rico and the Virgin Islands where, in Accountable Care Organizations, and further debate on the bill? front of our eyes on the television sets, other new systems under development. Hearing none, the bill having been we see a growing humanitarian crisis Keeping up with those changes—up- read the third time, the question is, that needs our urgent attention. dating the Medicare guarantee—is a Shall it pass? Hurricane Maria has left unimagi- big policymaking challenge, and that The bill (S. 870), as amended, was nable devastation. Less than half of the is why the Finance Committee worked passed. population of Puerto Rico has potable so hard, for so long, to get this bill Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask water. Cell service is out on 95 percent across the finish line. There are still unanimous consent that the motion to of the island, making it difficult to more steps before these policies reach reconsider be considered made and laid contact loved ones and call emergency the President’s desk, but with strong upon the table. services, and only 5 percent of the bipartisan backing of the entire U.S. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without power grid in Puerto Rico is working. Senate, I am confident the job will get objection, it is so ordered. My office has been fielding hundreds of calls from across the State of Mary- done. f The CHRONIC Care Act will mean land, some from constituents who are more care at home and less in institu- MEASURE READ THE FIRST eager and desperate to reach their tions. It will expand the use of life- TIME—H.R. 3354 loved ones, others from fellow Ameri- saving technology. It places a stronger Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I under- cans who are watching the devastation focus on primary care. It gives seniors, stand there is a bill at the desk, and I and who are asking us to act quickly. however they get Medicare, more tools ask for its first reading. We all know that in the runups to and options to receive care specifically The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Hurricanes Harvey and Irma, Texas targeted to address their chronic ill- clerk will read the bill by title for the and Florida braced for impact. We here nesses and keep them healthy. Those first time. in the Senate quickly organized to are all important steps forward in up- The bill clerk read as follows: promise we would deliver the resources dating the Medicare guarantee. Still to A bill (H.R. 3354) making appropriations they would need to rebuild. We pro- come is ensuring that every senior for the Department of the Interior, environ- vided an emergency downpayment, and with multiple chronic conditions has ment, and related agencies for the fiscal year we gave them assurances that we an advocate to help them navigate ending September 30, 2018, and for other pur- would also stand ready to provide as- through the Byzantine healthcare sys- poses. sistance when it comes to rebuilding. tem. Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I now We need to make that same urgent Finally just a few points about the ask for a second reading and, in order commitment to the people of Puerto bipartisan process leading to this bill’s to place the bill on the calendar under Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, our passage today. The Finance Com- the provisions of rule XIV, I object to fellow Americans. The administration mittee, in my view, has handed the my own request. needs to bring to bear its full resources Congress a model for how to legislate The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- from the military, to the Army Corps, on a bipartisan basis. I want to thank tion is heard. to FEMA to deliver critical supplies Chairman HATCH, with whom I formed The bill will be read for the second and access to people in all parts of a bipartisan chronic care working time on the next legislative day. those areas. group almost exactly 2 years ago, and I f We have heard that we might get an want to thank Senators WARNER and emergency request for appropriations ORDERS FOR WEDNESDAY, ISAKSON who generously took on the in a week or two. We need to move challenge of leading it. SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 much more quickly, given the urgency Of course this bill wouldn’t have ma- Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask of the situation; 3.5 million of our fel- terialized at all if not for the sweat eq- unanimous consent that when the Sen- low Americans should not be left to uity put in by staff. Somewhere amid ate completes its business today, it ad- languish without water or power. That all the endless hours of work that went journ until 10 a.m., Wednesday, Sep- is not who we are. We need all hands on into writing this bill, they found time tember 27; further, that following the deck, and we need them now, so I hope for multiple weddings, the birth of prayer and pledge, the morning hour be we will move on to that.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.047 S26SEPT1 S6154 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 HEALTHCARE, THE DREAM ACT, drome (HLHS). He has had four open heart cally that means that one of the valves in AND TAX REFORM surgeries and several cardiac catheteriza- my heart never fully closed. I was followed tions. A transplant could be needed one day. annually by a cardiologist, and she told me Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, we I worry every day about how he will have to expect to have it fixed in my 30s. She also had some good news—or I should say heart care should something happen and told me to have children in my 20s because if the American public had some good when he is too old to be on our plan.’’—Dara I needed to have it replaced (not just re- news today in the announcement from ‘‘I am a nurse practitioner and worked for paired), I would need to take blood thinners the Republican leader that the Senate the VA Healthcare System for 15yrs. While that would not allow me to be pregnant. I will not be proceeding to debate what this system is not without its challenges, had my heart repaired four days after my is known as the Graham-Cassidy legis- without it, many of our veterans would not 30th birthday, when my kids were 5 and 9 months. It was not fun, especially being a lation, the latest version of be receiving the healthcare and support they need to remain healthy and productive mem- mom with little ones, but I am as good as TrumpCare, which would have had a bers of society They would not be able to new five years later. Only my health insur- devastating impact on our healthcare work and support their families and as a re- ance doesn’t think so. Prior to the ACA, I system and created harm throughout sult, would likely not seek healthcare until was rejected by the BCBS policy my hus- the country and in my State of Mary- they needed emergency services. By then band’s company was providing for us and his land. In fact, I know millions of Mary- their previously untreated condition may al- employees. They told us they were happy to landers will be breathing a sigh of re- ready have worsened to the point of perma- offer coverage for my family but would not lief as a result of this decision. nent disability or death, leaving their fami- include me on our plan. Everyone gets sick. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- lies to fall into poverty, despair and having Everyone gets old. You can do everything to rely on Gov’t. Assistance. If they do not right and take care of yourself—and still sent to have printed in the RECORD the die, their disability care costs far more than have a preexisting condition that makes you personal testimonials of Marylanders the early and maintenance treatment they more expensive to cover. And without the who, in the last few days, have sent to should have been receiving even if they need- ACA, I may find myself having to fight for me their very powerful stories about ed this maintenance treatment for a life- health insurance again.’’—Justine how the Graham-Cassidy legislation time!’’—Becky ‘‘My daughter was diagnosed with a rare would have harmed their loved ones. ‘‘My 25 yr old son has Crohn’s disease. His Autoimmune disorder at age 18 . . . . Thanks There being no objection, the mate- entire large intestine was surgically re- to Obamacare, she was able to stay on our rial was ordered to be printed in the moved when he was 17. He must get a insurance until age 26 then purchase her own through her employer. Preventative care RECORD, as follows: remicade infusion every 6 weeks to keep his immune system from attacking his intes- keeps her in remission. Losing the ability to VAN HOLLEN CONSTITUENT HEALTHCARE/ACA tines. No hospital ER will administer his afford insurance means she cannot afford STORIES remicade infusion as this is considered main- care. One medication alone costs over $2,000/ 9/19/2017 tenance of his disease. When his situation be- month!’’—Cheryl ‘‘I am a Registered Nurse who specializes comes life threatening and he needs the ‘‘I am the first to acknowledge that there in perianesthesia care. Please do not wind Intervention of the ER . . . the damage is al- are major problems under the ACA. Pre- back the clock and make it harder for people ready done. Why don’t our republican sen- miums and deductibles are far too high and to seek care during an illness. I am heart- ators get this? Shouldn’t they be aware of increasing far too much annually. I am self- broken that I have cared for patients who de- this. . . . if they think they are the experts, employed and the individual market is get- layed care for weeks and months because representing us? Trey will lose his insurance ting exceedingly worse each year. CareFirst they were more afraid of medical bills than next June when he turns 26.’’—Darlene proposed a 50% rate hike for 2018 for plans dying. When people are ill and do not seek ‘‘Deep Medicaid Cuts would be devastating that already have a $6500 deductible. This is care, they jeopardize their lives—and in the to the millions of people with disabilities. not sustainable. However, prior to the ACA, case of communicable diseases they jeop- The Home and Community Waivers would be I was denied coverage by every insurer in the ardize the lives of others by delaying care in jeopardy. Because of the Community State of Maryland. The reason for the denial and treatment.’’—Beth Pathways Medicaid Waiver, Our 32 year old was that I was prescribed Lovenox, an ‘‘My 14 year old daughter is a leukemia son is able to live in his own apartment, vol- injectable blood thinner, when I was preg- survivor. She has multiple serious long term unteer in the community, hold a 30 hr week nant with my three children. The letters de- side effects from her chemotherapy regi- job in Gaithersburg, and have a social life. nying coverage said I was at increased risk ment. By repealing Obamacare, she becomes Without the supports he would lose his inde- for thrombosis, despite the fact that I had uninsurable due to her preexisting condi- pendence. . . . Please don’t make deep cuts medical documentation stating otherwise be- tions and the fact that she has met her life to Medicaid.’’—Reda cause my particular blood clotting concerns time maximum many times over.’’—Caroline ‘‘We have 14 year-old twins, both of whom exist only in pregnancy. Before the three ‘‘I have a neuromuscular autoimmune dis- have Cerebral Palsy. . . . It isn’t their fault children in my profile picture were born, our ease called Myasthenia Gravis. It affects my that they have a disability and they should first daughter was stillborn and I had two voluntary muscles, muscles I use to walk, not be punished for it.’’—Danica miscarriages. Initial pathology following her carry my groceries, see, swallow and ‘‘I work with medically fragile children stillbirth showed that the placenta was breathe. I already have to fight with my in- with disabilities. Without Medical Assist- badly clotted and blood testing showed that surance to get them to pay for my ance, these children and their families can- my Protein S levels were low. Following the immunoglobulin infusions, which most of the not afford the equipment, supplies & thera- two miscarriages and substantial blood time they deny, which sends me to the emer- pies that help them grow and thrive.’’—Car- work, my doctors concluded that my protein gency room because I can’t breathe. If for mel S levels dip to deficient levels in pregnancy any reason I have to find a new insurance, ‘‘I’m 48. I was diagnosed with scoliosis at and that I needed blood thinner in order to such as my husband getting a different job, age 13, and I had spinal fusion surgery to maintain a pregnancy. I find it ironic that it could be a death sentence for me. Just one save my life from it at age 21. The surgery the ‘‘pro-life’’ Republican party wishes to month of outpatient immunoglobulin ther- saved my live, but also had lifelong con- punish me and my family because of medica- apy is $27,000. My immunosuppressants I sequences. I have had this pre-existing condition I took to ensure that my children were have to take daily can run up to $2000 for a tion for most of my life. My parents, and born alive and well. We need to fix the ACA, 3 month supply. Then couple my health then me when I came of age, have always had but this is not it.’’—Kim issues and the cost of medications and I to be careful to make sure that pre-existing ‘‘I have been a type I diabetic for 25 years. would probably die within a month or less. I conditions were covered. I once turned down When my husband and I had health insur- didn’t ask to get sick. I never imagined at 41 a job in part because their insurance didn’t ance coverage through his employer, my pre- I would be facing my mortality.’’—Chrissy cover pre-existing conditions. The ACA scription for life-sustaining insulin cost us ‘‘My older sister has been profoundly dis- meant I no longer had to worry. Today, I $300 each month. After he began working for abled by mental illness for the last 50 years. work as a contractor for the US military, a new employer who did not offer health in- She is 62 now. She has severe behavioral helping defend US cyberspace. I wouldn’t be surance, we were encouraged to shop for our issues She cannot work. . . . She has been here, doing important work and being a pro- healthcare on the Maryland Exchange. With one step from living on the street if it ductive member of society, if I couldn’t get our ACA plan, my insulin is now much more weren’t for Medicaid and SSDI. She is not coverage for my pre-existing conditions.’’— affordable at $50 a month. If I have to go getting rich from these safety nets by any Bruce back to paying exorbitant amounts of money means. If these go away the republican con- ‘‘Obamacare saved my roommate’s life. He for a medication I need in order to survive, gress and this presidential administration was a server at a very popular restaurant, I will be forced to cut corners. If I do not will be responsible for making challenging hardworking, got good tips but could not af- take the necessary amount of insulin, I face lives that much more miserable We don’t ford health insurance. He got prostate can- a host of complications including kidney treat our most vulnerable as if they are dis- cer. Obamacare got him the care he need- failure, neuropathy, blindness, and so much posable.’’—Cat ed.’’—Deborah more. My husband and children should not ‘‘My son, 6, has a complex congenital heart ‘‘I had a mitral valve prolapse. It was dis- have to watch me suffer the preventable defect called Hypoplastic Left Heart Syn- covered when I was a little girl, and basi- side-effects of this disease. Like all other

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.066 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6155 Americans, I deserve affordable health insur- for example), because of the strict Pre-exist- still able to be covered under our family ance coverage and the Affordable Care Act ing Conditions clauses at that time. In 1998, plan. Please do not take the chance for a life provides that for me!’’—Katie when President Clinton signed the bill that in recovery, and addiction treatment serv- ‘‘I am a 55-year-old humorous, fun-loving, forbade insurance providers from denying ices away from our children It is saving and fiercely idealistic daughter, sister, coverage for preexisting conditions, I was lives.’’—Deb friend, 5th grade teacher, volunteer, advo- able to change jobs and move back to my ‘‘It would be a death sentence for me. As it cate, and 9 year breast cancer SURVIVOR. hometown of Baltimore, Maryland. Now, is now I am fighting to get on disability now. Please!! Do not allow them to change the after working for The Johns Hopkins Univer- I have 4 serious pre-existing conditions. The words ‘‘breast cancer survivor’’ into some- sity for 15 years, I have been forced by neces- ACA saved my husband’s life no joke as he thing I loathe and fail to celebrate!! If the sity to leave my job and obtain Social Secu- had cancer life threating cancer and without GOP is successful, which I CANNOT bear to rity Disability benefits, and now I am also it he would NEVER had survived period. He consider, I become no more than a ‘‘pre- being covered primarily by Medicare. I am also has 3 other preexisting conditions. Our existing condition and cancer VICTIM’’ in already living on a fixed income, at age 47, medical bills as it stands now are more then the eyes of our government, insurance com- and I am not making enough money to even all our other bills combined per month. In panies, and the healthcare system. If the live without a roommate, let alone enough the middle of an opiate epidemic as well GOP is successful, I become a 55-year-old money to face increasing premiums as well OMG addiction and or mental health issues angst-ridden daughter, sister, friend, 5th as decreasing coverage for my medical care. are considered pre-existing conditions what grade teacher, volunteer, advocate, and Please, please, please do not let Congress are they thinking and ripping millions of SCARED AS HELL breast cancer VICTIM pass this bill!! I would be honored for you to people safety net away from them in the who fears bankruptcy and spends countless tell my story, and I hope that maybe it could middle of this crisis is not human.’’—Jean hours contemplating my mortality. Please!! be eye-opening for some of the representa- ‘‘I have asthma, which was and is a pre-ex- Keep fighting for all of us. I sincerely believe tives who seem to believe that if you are a isting condition. Early in my twenties when that EVERYONE IS A SURVIVOR—NOT A well-educated, younger, tax paying citizen I was in college but not able to be on my par- VICTIM—OF SOMETHING IN THIS LIFE!! these changes won’t have a big impact. This ent’s insurance, I would put off going to the Please!! Do not let the GOP take control of kind of unexpected medical disaster could doctor because I couldn’t afford it when I got our narrative. We all have people who count happen to anyone.’’—Nicole sick. Consequently, this meant I ended up in on us. If we cannot take care of ourselves be- ‘‘11 months ago, I had to consent to a C- the ER for asthma related problems. Every 6 cause of sky-rocketing medical costs . . . If section at 28 weeks pregnant due to pre-ec- months I would come down with pneumonia we cannot function in our jobs properly be- lampsia. The only thing worse than having because there was no vaccine for it then, and cause of constant fear and worry . . . . How to put my tiny son’s health in jeopardy to each time it meant a visit to the ER for in- can we possibly take care of our beloved fam- save my life was the fear of my dying and tensive breathing treatments because I could ily, friends, and those in our care both pro- leaving my husband to raise a 4 year old and not breathe. This happened so many times I fessionally and in our volunteer endeav- a potentially medically-fragile infant. Now I eventually had to declare bankruptcy to get ors???’’—Carla worry, will his prematurity and my high out from under the bills. Today my asthma ‘‘Thank you for fighting this. I am a 7 1/2 blood pressure come back to haunt us? I got medicine is covered with a nominal co-pay, I year cancer survivor, but could be prohibited through his 142 day stay in the NICU by can see my doctor before a case of bronchitis from coverage if my previous diagnosis is in- dreaming of what his life could be. I dream of becomes something worse, and I do not need cluded in pre-existing condition exemp- him running when he is two, arms out- to go to the ER for treatment. Now I have a tions.’’—Pat stretched, of when he is 22 and graduates twenty year old in college who has pre-exist- ‘‘My daughter is medically fragile, and de- from college, maybe to be a NICU nurse, of ing conditions, unlike me she is still covered pendent on a ventilator, due to a genetic when he gets married and I dance with him under our health insurance and her prescrip- condition (Neurofibromatosis type 1, also . . . . My nightmare is that this will affect tions are affordable. What happens to me, known as NF). She also has a rare cerebro- our ability to have that future I dreamed of, my daughter, and my husband who all have vascular disorder, called Moyamoya Disease mostly that I won’t be there for him. We pre-existing conditions if our insurance is al- that caused her to suffer two strokes at age have fought so hard to get our own ‘‘nor- lowed to go back to the old days of charging 15 months old. Daphne has been through mal’’, please keep fighting for us.’’—Rachel more for our coverage? What happens to my heart surgery, neurosurgeries, chemo- ‘‘I am a Montgomery County Maryland daughter if she can no longer be on our pol- therapy, and countless hospitalizations. She resident and have an aged severely disabled icy? Surely the Republicans can’t think that also suffers from epilepsy. Because of her aged brother in a nursing home who depends repealing these protections and replacing vast health issues, she requires 24 hour care on Medicaid and an adult daughter with them with nothing is something good for our and receives in-home nursing through Med- Crohn’s disease and a preexisting condition country? Are they that out of touch with the icaid for 16 hours a day. Cuts to Medicaid she acquired as a teenager and both of their middle class? Please do not pass this, you coupled with allowing insurers to deny for lives will be put in jeopardy if they lose their will be hurting many, many people.’’—Pam- pre-existing conditions, and bringing back current . . . medical coverage and I am wor- ela high-risk pools would put the most vulner- ried and angry at the cruel and heartless Re- ‘‘As a type 1 diabetic, I used to skimp on able people at risk . . . . Every ACA repeal publican attempt to reduce or eliminate my insulin to make the bottles last longer. bill that has come forward has been a threat their life saving health coverage.’’—Richard Keeping my blood sugar levels higher than to my daughter’s wellbeing, and this one is ‘‘My husband and I have both have had life they had to be is catastrophically unhealthy. no exception. This is not the right path for- threatening medical conditions. To lose our Please don’t make people with chronic ill- ward. The Senate should be working hard to health insurance due to pre-existing condi- nesses have to choose between food and med- make sure every American has access to tions will be a death sentence when we run icine!’’—Sandra healthcare, every Senator should be looking out of options. I worry most though for our ‘‘My sister who has Cerebral Palsy and is out for the most vulnerable Americans. medically fragile children and seniors.’’—Val able to live at home at the age of 41 with my There are measures needed to improve our ‘‘Twelve years ago, before the Affordable parents would lose the medical coverage and healthcare system; but cutting access to Care Act, I was a single parent of two school supports that ensures her wellbeing. My fa- healthcare to the people who need it most is age children and was denied health insurance ther who is 87 years old would now be subject not an improvement. For families like mine, coverage because of pre-existing conditions. to pre-existing condition exclusions. This is it would be devastating.’’—Jenny I frantically searched for employment where a man who served in the army and retired ‘‘In 1994, I was 24 years old and working at I could have coverage in an employer plan. I from the Postal Service in his 70’s. He grew Dartmouth College in New Hampshire, when was fortunate to find this . . . . In 2014 I had up in the Great Depression and worked tire- I suddenly got very sick and was hospital- to leave employment to become a care giver lessly his entire life. Name me one person ized. I was diagnosed with acute pancreatitis for my husband who was diagnosed with Par- who does not have a pre-existing condition of unknown cause, and spent 11 weeks in the kinson’s disease. I considered myself fortu- by the age of 87.’’—Bonnie hospital and had 2 surgeries. I did have nate to be able to do this because the Afford- ‘‘My daughter has had pre-existing condi- health insurance, but the final costs from able Care Act would allow me to purchase tions since she was 22 months. She is now 23, that initial illness that were billed to insur- health insurance without worrying about my still with developmental delays and chronic ance totaled over $250,000. Two years later I pre-existing conditions. My premiums and medical conditions. She will need good care experienced a recurrence of the pancreatitis, deductibles have been very expensive, but at and Medicaid and a Medicaid waiver program and I was told that I now was almost as- least I could obtain coverage. I remember the rest of her life. She will never be able to suredly going to have what is known as Idio- the stress and fear from being previously de- work. If there are cuts to Medicaid and she pathic Recurrent Acute Pancreatitis. This nied coverage.’’—Roberta gets denied private insurance for pre-exist- time I was only hospitalized for 30 days, but ‘‘My 25 year old daughter is about to hit ing conditions, our government is basically the costs were mounting, and I began to be her 90-day sobriety date, thanks to her hard telling me and telling her, ‘‘We really don’t afraid that I was going to easily hit the one work, and the treatment she is receiving at want her to live. We really only want million dollar lifetime limit that was cur- a great rehab in PA. She is still going to out- healthy and non-disabled people living in rently part of my policy. I also was unable to patient, and she is living in a sober house America. We would like her to die.’’ That is consider moving away from New Hampshire with roommates. My health insurance has exactly what their plan sounds like to (to be closer to family resources and support, covered her treatment. Thank God she is me.’’—Kimbell

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.051 S26SEPT1 S6156 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 ‘‘I am guilty of being born with an auto- . . . . Finally, I received a letter. I do not So it is really important that the immune condition. For much of my young qualify for insurance due to pre-existing con- Trump administration take those ac- adult life I was not insurable because of the ditions. I have never been seriously ill, never tions now to avert increasing pre- pre-existing condition clause, and arthritis been hospitalized. I use an asthma inhaler as caused by my autoimmune condition left me needed and I take one generic pill every day miums in the exchanges in the days to stuck in bed more days than not. Since the for another condition. This was enough to come. It is also essential that the Sen- ACA, I am insured and as a result have been deny me. I had to go on a high risk plan ate move forward on that legislation. able to start a treatment for my condition which cost me almost as much as our ACA I hope we will also move forward which is literally life-changing. I can leave plan for a family of three. There was no drug with the continuation and some the house, I can have a normal life, and I’m coverage whatsoever. I had to pay list price strengthening and modifications of the even fostering a dog for a rescue that took for drugs . . . . I had a well-paying job with Children’s Health Insurance Program. dogs from the Harvey shelters before the no dependents and I still needed help from Again, there is bipartisan agreement storm, to make room for displaced pets. He my parents to pay for all of this . . . . With needs a walk every day, at least once a day, this new bill, these are the days we are going on that proposal. We need to move for- and I can do that. The repeal makes no back to. We can’t. We just can’t.’’—Hilary ward right away with the support for sense—if I can buy insurance I can work and Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Now that we have community health centers because contribute to the community. If I can’t get decided not to vote on that legislation, that authority will also expire. insurance I can’t get healthcare, and without I hope we will then get on with the it is essential that this Senate move healthcare I can’t work, I can’t contribute to business of putting into law the agree- society through volunteering—how do people forward expeditiously to take up bipartisan legislation that has been in the ment in principle that was reached by benefit from making sure people like me President Trump and the Democratic can’t get the healthcare we need to be able works through Senator ALEXANDER and leaders in the House and the Senate to to have lives? Even if you don’t care about Senator MURRAY. Those conversations us as people, society benefits when more peo- were bearing fruit. They were produc- provide protections for the Dreamers. ple can work and pay taxes and volunteer.’’— tive until the Senate decided to veer As we all know, the President lit the 6- Kris off, once again, to try to pass legisla- month fuse on these young people who ‘‘In 2006 at age 41, I was diagnosed with a were brought here through no fault of rare, incurable and life-threatening disease. I tion that would have destroyed the Af- fordable Care Act. But now that we their own, and it is incumbent on all of had insurance through a Health Savings Ac- us to make sure that these young peo- count, which had a $3,000 annual deductible have decided not to go down that path, and monthly premiums that increased 400% we have to quickly come back to those ple, who have grown up knowing only in 5 years. I’ve been disabled by this illness bipartisan talks and adopt some com- America as their country and who have and many complications and rely on Medi- monsense measures to strengthen the grown up pledging allegiance to the care and Medicaid to survive. If either is cut insurance system in a smart and tar- flag, not face the threat of deportation I won’t be able to afford the highly special- geted way. 6 months from now. That is what they ized medical care this rare disease requires. There were many commonsense ideas are facing as of this moment. The Sen- I will die as a result. Please do everything in that are part of those discussions, in- ate should act quickly to pass the bi- your power to protect all of us whose lives partisan Dream Act. are at risk.’’—Sangye cluding making more permanent the ‘‘My Wife’s Father, Dennis, passed away a so-called cost-sharing provisions, I hope we will also move forward in a little over two years ago of congestive heart which help to lower the costs of bipartisan way on the important issue failure. He wasn’t even 60. He was a CT Na- healthcare and help to reduce the pre- of tax reform because I think all of us tive that lived alone in SC with just his be- miums, the copays, and the agree that our Tax Code could be sim- loved German Shepheard Bobbi at his side. deductibles, and the reinsurance provi- plified. There is a lot of junk in our While his medical issues were great, he man- sions that also have that effect, as well Tax Code that has been put there by aged to hide most of them from the family as discussions about how we might be powerful special interests who were . . . . Had he gotten treatment early his con- able to hire high-priced lobbyists to ex- ditions could have been easily managed but able to streamline waivers within the because he went untreated for years, his Medicaid system without sacrificing or empt themselves from certain tax pro- issues became fatal. There was eventually jeopardizing the important principles visions that all other Americans have nothing that could be done. The saddest part and protections that Medicaid provides to pay. We need to clear out that un- of this is that we fought with him for years on a national level. derbrush and make other important re- to sign up under the Affordable Care Act. He We know we have to move quickly on forms, and we can simplify the Tax refused because he felt this was a hand out this front because insurance companies Code. and he was too proud for that. When he even- all over the country have already As we do that, I was very much hop- tually became too weak to carry out even started or are on the brink of starting ing that we would take the advice of the most basic tasks, which included hiding our colleague, Senator MCCAIN, who his condition from the family, he finally the process of announcing their pre- agreed to sign up. While he did sign up, he miums. Unless this Senate takes ac- said we need to get back to the regular would never see his first appointment. He tion, we are going to see many high order. We need to get back to the Sen- passed in his sleep before it could even be premiums. So we have to move quick- ate conducting its business in a trans- scheduled . . . . Dennis should have lived. He ly. As we do, the White House needs to parent manner. We need to have hear- could have lived. If he simply had access to stop their efforts to undermine and ings. We need to bring witnesses from the care he needed all along then he would sabotage the Affordable Care Act. all different perspectives and points of still be with us. But we don’t get to have On day one of his Presidency, Presi- view to testify as to the impact of tax that. Instead my Wife has a hole in her heart dent Trump adopted an Executive reform proposals. that may never be repaired. Tormented with the ‘‘what ifs’’ that can never be answered. order that began to sabotage that pro- We short-circuited that process when The only thing we can be thankful for in this gram. We are already seeing the im- it came to healthcare, and the result is that we were able to claim Bobbi, the dog pact when it comes to some of the was a healthcare bill that the over- he lived for. She has become a truly beloved early premium announcements we have whelming majority of the American member of our family.’’—Jason seen from insurance companies that people rejected, including every single ‘‘Thank you for fighting for us. If pre-ex- offer insurance in the exchanges. That patient advocacy organization that isting conditions aren’t covered I will quick- decision—that early Executive order— weighed in on that bill—from the ly go bankrupt. I will lose my house that I has created a big spike. So the Presi- American Cancer Society to the Amer- just purchased. I have a good, steady job and a Master’s degree but this would quickly dent needs to act right away to assure ican Heart Association and the Amer- bankrupt me.’’—Rebecca the folks who provide healthcare ican Diabetes Association. We have ‘‘People need to understand how easy it is throughout the country that he is seen that very long list, with all of the to feel like a relatively healthy person, then going to stop the sabotage and begin to healthcare providers, from the nurses be saddled with a ‘‘pre-existing condition’’. I make sure that we stabilize those mar- to the doctors to the hospitals. Hos- work in a field where it is difficult to get em- kets. It is under his control to say pitals in rural areas, suburban areas, ployer sponsored health insurance. Before today, if he wanted, that he will con- and urban areas all said that the the ACA, when I was applying for my own policy . . . . I had to go through under- tinue those cost-sharing payments healthcare bill that did not go through writing. They called every doctor I ever had. until the Senate and the House adopt the regular process and did not go They requested that my entire file be sent to permanent legislation to address those through the regular order was deeply the insurance company. It was very invasive issues. flawed and would hurt America.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A26SE6.052 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6157 We should learn a lesson from that. we will do. These reports that we are when those debts go up, always the The lesson we should learn is that tax talking about short-circuiting the conversation comes around to cut- reform, which also has an incredibly process are alarming. ting—cutting our investments in edu- wide-reaching impact on our economy Then, we just heard within the last cation; cutting Medicare, turning it and on our country, should go through few days that, in addition to creating a into a voucher program, as various Re- the regular order of debate. It is very process that would fast-track tax cuts publican budgets in the House and Sen- alarming to see that, as of now, it ap- that could go overwhelmingly to the ate have proposed over the years; cut- pears that the process on tax reform is wealthy and add to our deficit, this ting Medicaid, which is what the Gra- going to go through the same short- reconciliation bill will be written in a ham-Cassidy bill would have done and, circuited effort as we saw with respect way that might allow us to try to fast- according to the Congressional Budget to healthcare, because what we have track the destruction of the Affordable Office, it is over a $1 trillion cut, and seen is that the Senate Budget Com- Care Act again. We have finished this that is before it went over a total cliff mittee, on which I am proud to serve, debate for this fiscal year, but sugges- in the outyears. will soon—maybe as early as next tions are that it will open the door to So let’s, please, colleagues, learn the week—be taking up a budget bill that destroying the Affordable Care Act lesson from how this healthcare fiasco will include what are known as budget through that fast-track, so-called rec- unfolded. When it comes to things like reconciliation instructions, which onciliation process in the months tax reform, let’s proceed in a bipar- would provide for a tax cut that would ahead. tisan way. Let’s begin in the coming be deficit-financed. What does that So we would have in one piece of leg- week to get back to the bipartisan dis- mean? It means that we would be cut- islation a proposal that says: Let’s cut cussions on healthcare, so that as we ting taxes and not paying for them. We taxes for very wealthy people, and it head into the fall, people are not going would be cutting taxes and putting it will add to the deficit, but we are also to experience wounds that are inflicted on the American credit card and, as a going to try to reduce the deficit a lit- by the lack of action by this Con- result, dramatically increasing our tle bit by cutting healthcare for mil- gress—by this Senate and this House. debt. In fact, the reports indicate that lions of Americans. I thank you, Mr. President. I hope we the proposal will actually green-light a We thought we just had that debate, can get back to regular order at some $1.5 trillion increase in the Federal def- and we thought the American public point in time and really do the people’s icit. just weighed in on that debate. The re- work the way it is intended to be Now, I have heard our Republican sult of the American public’s weighing done—in an open, transparent, and bi- colleagues in the House and in the Sen- in was very clear, and that is why we partisan way. ate for years talk about the fact that are not voting on that this week in the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the debt is a huge burden overhanging Senate. We should not open the door ator from Iowa. on our economy. The debt is a big prob- again to that kind of fast-track process Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask lem, and we need to deal with it. In that could do such grave harm to the unanimous consent to speak for ap- fact, a few months ago, Leader MCCON- healthcare of the American people. proximately 6 or 7 minutes. NELL said that any tax overhaul plan So I hope that when it comes to tax The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without would ‘‘have to be revenue-neutral’’ be- reform, we will take a different path. objection, it is so ordered. cause of the ‘‘alarming $20 trillion Fed- As I indicated, there are things we can f eral debt.’’ Yet, just months after that and should do to simplify our Tax EPA PROPOSAL ON BIODIESEL statement, we are told that we are Code. What we should not do is what probably going to get a proposal that we have seen in the past. What we saw Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I would actually green-light—open the in the past in the early 2000s was this come to the floor because I am very door—to increasing the Federal debt by fast-track procedure used to pass tax disturbed about some actions coming $1.5 trillion in order to provide a tax cuts that went overwhelmingly to the out of EPA affecting biofuels and con- cut. wealthiest Americans. In fact, after trary to what the President promised. Now, the Democrats have put for- that tax cut was put in place, what In other words, I think people working ward some principles for tax reform went up was the income of the top 1 for the President aren’t following the that I believe reflect the views of the percent. What went up was the deficit President’s direction. American public. What we have said is and the debt, and everybody else was As my colleagues know well, I have this. No. 1, tax reform should be there left flat or sinking. So that would be a championed renewable fuels and other to help the middle class and working terrible mistake. energies for a long period of time. I families with some relief, and we For example, we are told that part of have worked hard to enact policies to should not be providing millionaires in this will be eliminating entirely the so- encourage the growth of renewable the top 1 percent with yet another tax called estate tax. Right now, the estate electricity from sources such as wind cut windfall. That should not be the tax only applies to estates over $11 mil- and solar. The same is true for biofuels. priority of the country. In fact, Sec- lion, for couples—over $11 million. So I have pursued policies to grow our retary Mnuchin, when he was testi- 0.2 percent of Americans are impacted country’s production of renewable fying during his confirmation hearings, by the estate tax, and they are the fuels, such as conventional corn eth- put forward something that we called wealthiest of the very wealthy. Yet anol, biodiesel, and cellulosic ethanol. the Mnuchin rule, which said that this proposal says we are going to actu- I support renewable energy because it there should be no net tax cut for the ally increase the debt by $1.5 trillion in is good for the economy. It is good for very wealthy. So we have adopted that order to make room for tax cuts that our national security. It is good for our as one of our principles for tax reform. benefit the top two-tenths of 1 percent balance of trade. It is good for the We have also said what Leader of the American public. rural economies, and it is good for en- MCCONNELL said a few months ago, That is heading in the wrong direc- ergy independence. that tax reform should not add to the tion. I am pretty confident that, at I was pleased that in the most recent deficit and debt. We shouldn’t pass that least, in my State of Maryland, the Presidential election, then Candidate burden on to taxpayers and future gen- overwhelming majority of our citizens Trump—now our President—made clear erations to pay the interest on that would be very much opposed to that ef- his support for ethanol and the renew- debt. fort. What always happens is that, able fuels standard. He said clearly: Finally, we have said that it should when it comes to cutting taxes for the ‘‘We are going to protect the Renew- go through the regular order, as Sen- very wealthy or for powerful special in- able Fuels Standard.’’ ator MCCAIN indicated, where we have terests, many of our Republican col- On another occasion, Candidate that debate in an open forum so that leagues here forget about all the talk Trump recognized the benefits of the everybody can understand the impact about the importance of the deficit and industry when he said this at an eth- and have their say before people try to debt. It is OK to run up a $1.5 trillion anol biorefinery: rush it through the Senate in a short debt on top of our already high debt in Amazing what you’ve been able to do— period of time. So I hope that is what order to provide tax cuts. But then, amazing. And it’s great for the country and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.067 S26SEPT1 S6158 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE September 26, 2017 the investment is great. Beyond even the port by the President himself. They way. This seems like a bait and switch product, the investment and the jobs and ev- told us that they knew who was boss, from the EPA’s prior proposal and from erything else are great for the country. and they knew the President supported assurances from President Trump him- Finally, at a summit focusing on re- the Renewable Fuel Standard. self and from those Cabinet Secretaries newable fuels in Iowa, as a candidate in About a month ago, the President who came to my office to assure us of January of 2016, Mr. Trump said this: called me. I was traveling to Northwest their support for the RFS. The RFS, which is Renewable Fuel Stand- Iowa for my town meetings. He called Reducing volumes as the EPA pro- ard, is an important tool in the mission to me. We talked on the cellphone for poses would undermine renewable fuel achieve energy independence to the United maybe a couple of minutes. He was production. That is contrary to the States. I will do all that is in my power as somewhat worried—although he didn’t worthwhile goal of America first. It President to achieve that goal. . . . As Presi- dent, I will encourage Congress to be cau- say why he was worried—that people will undermine U.S. workers and harm tious in attempting to charge and change might be questioning whether he still the U.S. economy, particularly in rural any part of the RFS. . . . Energy independ- supported ethanol and other biofuels. America. It is contrary to the goal of ence is a requirement of America to become He made very clear to me that he sup- meeting the country’s fuel needs great again. ports renewable fuels and that he will through domestic production, which is Candidate Trump continued: keep his word on the Renewable Fuel critical to job creation and economic My theme is ‘Make America Great Again.’ Standard. He said he wanted me to tell growth. It’s an important part of it. The EPA should that to the people of Iowa. This all gives me a strong suspicion ensure that biofuel RVOs, or blend levels, There are a lot of ways you can tell that big oil companies and big oil re- match the statutory level set by Congress the people of Iowa, but one of the ways fineries are prevailing once again in under the RFS. I did what he asked is I tweeted it to this Trump EPA, as they did in the These are, in fact, very strong words the 140,000 people who are on my Twit- Obama administration, despite assur- and went over well with farmers and ter feed. I have done what he asked me ances to the contrary that I have re- alternative energy people in my State to do. ceived from this administration. and throughout the country, and I am Here we are today. You can imagine You can bet that I plan to press the glad he said them. After years of delay my surprise this very day when I saw administration to drop this terrible and uncertainty from the previous ad- that President Trump’s EPA has re- plan. I hope the officials working for ministration, Iowans are very grateful leased a proposal out of the blue to re- the President will keep the President’s to hear such determination and convic- duce the volume requirements for bio- word, so I will make sure that EPA tion from Candidate Trump, now Presi- diesel for 2018 and 2019 under the Re- hears loud and clear the impact the dent Trump. newable Fuel Standard. That is the EPA’s proposal will have on Iowa’s I was somewhat cautious early on RFS. corn and soybean farmers and the when the President named a few mem- This action today has come out of biofuel producers in my State and all bers of his Cabinet who were from oil- nowhere. The EPA just released a pro- the jobs connected with it. That is not producing States. Fearful of Big Oil’s posal in July to set blending levels for a way to make America strong once opposition to biofuels and then con- biodiesel. It did not touch the 2018 again. cerned about whether the President level, which was already finalized at 2.1 I yield the floor. would keep his promise, I, along with a billion gallons. The July proposal number of my Senate colleagues, held a would keep the 2019 levels steady at 2.1 f meeting in my office with the nomi- billion gallons. nees for Director of EPA and Secretary This is what happened today, which I ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 10 A.M. of Energy, among others. We expressed have already referred to. Today’s an- TOMORROW to those nominees our support for nouncement proposes to reduce both The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under biofuels and renewable energy and the levels, contrary to what the President the previous order, the Senate stands benefits of strong biofuels policies. One had said that he was supporting. It is adjourned until 10 a.m. tomorrow. by one, these nominees assured us of outrageous that the EPA would change Thereupon, the Senate, at 7:08 p.m., their support because they were made course and propose a reduction in re- adjourned until Wednesday, September well aware of President Trump’s sup- newable fuel volumes in this particular 27, 2017, at 10 a.m.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G26SE6.068 S26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1267 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

PERSONAL EXPLANATION reliable and efficient source of power. In fact, HONORING THE LIFE OF REV. PJM oversees the largest power grid in North IMRE A. BERTALAN HON. PATRICK J. TIBERI America, employing more than 600 people at OF OHIO their headquarters in my district near Valley HON. MARCY KAPTUR Forge, Pennsylvania. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF OHIO PJM was founded in 1927 when three utili- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tuesday, September 26, 2017 ties determined they could provide power Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Mr. TIBERI. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call Nos. more efficiently by interconnecting to share 530 (motion to suspend the rules and pass, as their generating resources and created the Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to amended H.R. 3823), and 531 (motion to sus- world’s first continuous power pool. Over the recognize the life of Rev. Imre A. Bertalan, depend the rules and pass, as amended H.R. past 90 years, PJM has grown to include more voted husband, father and grandfather, who 2061), I did not cast my vote. Had I been than one thousand members representing served as a compassionate pastor of Calvin present, I would have voted Yea on both transmission owners, generation owners, con- United Church of Christ and was known for his these votes. sumers, and residential and commercial cus- dedication to his church, his dedication to his f tomers. PJM earned the distinction of being Hungarian heritage, and advocating for his be- the country’s first fully-functioning independent loved East Toledo neighborhood, Birmingham. RECOGNIZING THE PASSING OF system operator in 1997 and the country’s first Imre passed away after a valiant struggle COLONEL JAMES BROWN OF fully-functioning regional transmission organi- against cancer on August 29, 2017 in Latrobe FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA zation in 2002. Hospital in Latrobe, PA. Mr. Speaker, PJM Interconnection has dem- Imre was born in New Brunswick, New Jer- HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN onstrated extraordinary leadership and em- sey, on October 4, 1949 to Margaret and the OF VIRGINIA braced innovation in the constantly-evolving Rev. Imre G. Bertalan. He graduated from IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES utility industry and, therefore, I would ask my New Brunswick High School, held a bachelor’s colleagues to join me in extending best wishes degree from Rutgers University and a master Tuesday, September 26, 2017 for continued success to all employees as of divinity degree from Princeton Theological Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today they commemorate this memorable milestone. Seminary. with the sad news that Colonel Jim Brown, a Initially not intending to be a minister after resident of Fredericksburg, Virginia passed f graduating from seminary, Imre started as a away on August 30, 2017. Col. Brown grad- community organizer and helped form the uated from Annandale High School in 1956 HANK ALDERFER East Toledo Community Organization. He be- and went on to graduate from Virginia Tech came a member of East Toledo’s Calvin with a degree in Electrical Engineering in HON. ED PERLMUTTER United Church of Christ, which was founded 1960. Col. Brown served 30 years in the Army OF COLORADO as the Hungarian Evangelical Reformed Reserves, retiring in 1991. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Church. He was elected pastor in 1979. During his tenure as pastor, Imre reached Col. Brown dedicated his career to public Tuesday, September 26, 2017 service, spending much of his career working out to the congregations of all of the religions with electric power systems ensuring power Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in the neighborhood so that Calvin was not supply adequacy and reliability, in addition to today to recognize and applaud Hank Alderfer just known as a Hungarian church, but as a restoring systems after storms and earth- for receiving the 2017 Hall of Fame Award neighborhood church open to the entire neigh- quakes. Jim served as the Department of Vir- from the West Chamber. borhood. ginia President of the Reserve Officers Asso- The Hall of Fame Award recognizes out- True to his Hungarian-American roots, Imre ciation, Region IV Commander as well as De- standing individuals who have significant, was integrally involved in efforts on behalf of partment of Virginia Commander of the Military long-lasting impacts through their leadership America’s ethnic communities. A strong rep- Order of the World Wars. I have had the and contributions to Jefferson County’s econ- resentative particularly of the Hungarian-Amer- pleasure of working with Jim on the Fred- omy, community and legacy. icans with whom he shared a common herit- ericksburg Veterans Council for the past 8 Hank Alderfer has shown a lifelong dedica- age, Imre served on the boards of national years. Jim is survived by his wife, June; chil- tion to the Jefferson County community and is Hungarian-American organizations for many dren, James and Julie; and three grand- known for his love of history in the mountain years. He extended his national efforts to his children, Joshua, Victoria, and Michael. communities. He was raised in Evergreen, family, instilling a love of their Hungarian tradi- Mr. Speaker, I ask you to join me and Colorado on the Alderfer Ranch. Eventually tion in all. He was encouraging, comforting, countless others as we recognize the many the Alderfer family sold or donated much of filled with abiding kindness and a gentle soul, contributions of Colonel Jim Brown. their property to Jefferson County Open Space always advising people that ‘‘everything will be f which would become the 242-acre Alderfer/ all right.’’ Three Sisters Open Space Park. When the After decades in ministry as pastor, Imre be- PJM 90TH ANNIVERSARY Alderfer ranch house and barn were des- came the executive director of Bethlen Com- ignated historical landmarks, Hank contributed munities in Ligonier, PA, a retirement and HON. RYAN A. COSTELLO critical information to Jefferson County Plan- nursing community founded by the Hungarian OF PENNSYLVANIA ning and Zoning in the creation of the Ever- Reformed Federation of America. Even after IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES green Area Community Plan. During his ten- his move to Pennsylvania, Imre and his wife ure on the Board of the Evergreen Park and maintained a home in the Birmingham neigh- Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Recreation District, Hank was instrumental in borhood of Toledo and were active in the Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsylvania. Mr. developing the Evergreen hiking and biking planning for the annual Birmingham Ethnic Speaker, I rise today to recognize the hard trails known as the Evergreen Trails Plan. Festival. work and dedication of all employees, past Hank also shares his vast knowledge of the Reverend Imre Bertalan will long be remem- and present, at PJM Interconnection, which is history of the area in his Canyon Courier bered for his dedication to his family, church, celebrating its 90th anniversary. newspaper column ‘‘Yesteryear.’’ the Toledo community at large, and Bethlen The work of PJM employees is critical to en- I extend my deepest congratulations to Communities. A beautiful memorial service suring homes and businesses—more than 65 Hank Alderfer for this well-deserved recogni- was held for Imre at Calvin United Church of million people in total in all or portions of 13 tion by the West Chamber of Jefferson Christ in East Toledo on September 23, 2017. states and the District of Columbia—have a County. We gathered together and gave thanks for the

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

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K26SE8.001 E26SEPT1 E1268 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 26, 2017 ministry of Reverend Imre Bertalan. Just as HONORING THE LIFE OF MR. JOE tives, and worked with committees and advi- importantly, we remembered a loving family CURRY sory bodies developing health policy at the man and friend. county level. He also served as the principal We offer Imre’s beautiful and artistic wife of HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN liaison to Bay Point, the County’s largest unin- almost 37 years, Magdalene ‘‘Baba’’ J. Ujvagi, OF VIRGINIA corporated community. Imre’s children, Sara Davis, Magda Bertalan, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, Mr. Diokno has served our country and our county and his legacy sets a Juli Bertalan, Margit Bertalan, and Imre Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Bertalan, his five grandchildren, his sisters Lil- high standard to which other public servants Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to should aspire. Therefore, it is fitting and prop- lian Bertalan and M. Sarah Bertalan, his family honor the passing of Mr. Joe Curry. Mr. Curry er that we honor him here today and extend and friends our prayers and hope. May they passed peacefully at his home in Lancaster our best wishes for an enjoyable retirement. find comfort in the wonderful gift of Imre’s life, County recently at the age of 84. He is sur- their memories of their husband, father, broth- f vived by his two sons and three daughters. er, uncle, grandfather, friend, his imprimatur Mr. Curry was a well-respected figure in the JOHN ELLIS on his church and neighborhood. All that he community. Born in the Depression, Mr. Curry did contributed to humanity’s greater good and experienced many things in life. He served as HON. ED PERLMUTTER the glory of God. a Marine during the Korean War, started and OF COLORADO Hungarian in his soul, a patriotic American, ran a thriving crab steaming business, and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES faithful Vicar of Christ, Imre Bertalan’s life was later Curry Pottery, to which many in the com- Tuesday, September 26, 2017 writ large. His life will long echo in his family munity including myself, would stop by to say and friends, his congregations and those he hello and seek his counsel on local issues. Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise served so well. I know he was welcomed Mr. Curry was known as a great community today to recognize and applaud John Ellis for home with ‘‘well done, my good and faithful leader, whether it was serving on the Northern receiving the 2017 Jefferson County Hall of servant.’’ Neck Planning District Commission, the Bay Fame Award from the West Chamber. Aging Board or the Lancaster County Eco- The Hall of Fame Award recognizes out- f nomic Development Authority. However, Mr. standing individuals who have significant, Curry’s figure as a community leader went long-lasting impacts through their leadership HONORING MS. PATRICIA well beyond the various Boards and Commis- and contributions to Jefferson County’s econ- MCDERMOTT sions he served on. His true passion was omy, community and legacy. helping the needy, and one of his favorite John Ellis has shown a lifelong dedication to charities was the Boys and Girls Club. Mr. the Jefferson County community. His exten- HON. ROBERT A. BRADY Curry was recognized for his charitable work sive involvement includes serving on many in the Commonwealth, receiving numerous nonprofit boards such as the Evergreen Chris- OF PENNSYLVANIA awards from the American Red Cross, Amer- tian Outreach, Blue Spruce Kiwanis, Ever- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ican Heart Association, Kiwanis Club, and Ro- green Audubon, and Jeffco Outdoor Lab tary International. With that said, Joe Curry will Foundation just to name a few. For the past Tuesday, September 26, 2017 be remembered most for his gracious heart eleven years John has served as an elected Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, and tireless work towards racial reconciliation. official with the Evergreen Metropolitan District today I rise to honor the continuous dedication I am grateful to have known Mr. Curry and and for almost four years has served on the and hard work of Ms. Patricia McDermott. Ms. thankful for his words of wisdom and support Evergreen Parks and Recreation District board. In addition to these endeavors, John is McDermott is an invaluable member of our over the years. Mr. Curry will be dearly missed an avid fisherman and has been teaching fly community and longtime dedicated employee by his family and friends. Virginia and the Na- fishing for the past 27 years and is involved of the Philadelphia Municipal Court. tion sends its greatest gratitude for his service in the U.S. Marine Corps and in his commu- with Evergreen Trout Unlimited preserving Ms. McDermott, a trailblazer in the Philadel- nity. cold-eater fisheries. phia Municipal Courts, was the first woman to f John Ellis’ history of volunteerism and sup- be appointed to Deputy Court Administrator of port of the community and its businesses the Civil Division in 1996. However, her path HONORING MR. EDUARDO DIOKNO spans decades. He currently holds the posi- to arrive at this point was not easy. As a sin- tion of Community Relations Manager for Ev- gle mother, Ms. McDermott struggled early in HON. MIKE THOMPSON ergreen National Bank. her career to find her footing within the court. OF CALIFORNIA I extend my deepest congratulations to John Nevertheless, she worked her way up the sys- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Ellis for this well-deserved recognition by the tem diligently, starting in the Private Criminal West Chamber of Jefferson County. Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Complaint Unit, then moving to the First Filing f Unit in the clerical division, then to Assistant Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, Supervisor, then to Supervisor until she was I, along with my colleague Representative HONORING PRIVATE FIRST CLASS appointed to her current position. MARK DESAULNIER, rise today to honor FREELON F. KELLY Eduardo Diokno upon his retirement after 12 Ms. McDermott has shown exemplary devo- years of service with Contra Costa County. tion and dedication throughout her 43-year- HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN Mr. Diokno currently serves as Deputy Chief long career. She has done much good for the OF TENNESSEE of Staff to Supervisor Federal Glover and has City throughout her tenure, including her sev- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES been a thoughtful policymaker and committed eral renovation projects such as the combina- voice for Filipino Americans in the County. Tuesday, September 26, 2017 tion of units work space at 34 S. 11th Street Mr. Diokno is a lifelong East County resi- Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, today we 2002 and the successful relocation of Munic- dent with a passion for serving our community. honor Wayne County resident, Private First ipal Court’s Civil Division to The Widener He served our country in the U.S. Army as a Class Freelon F. Kelly, decorated combat vet- Building in June 2012. Ms. McDermott was 2nd Lieutenant and later joined the Army Re- eran, farmer, friend, and fallen hero. also responsible for the implementation of a serves. Mr. Diokno then worked as a journalist Born on the 2nd of May, 1912, PFC Kelly nationally recognized electronic case manage- for 28 years with the Philippine News, Oak- trained as an infantryman and shipped to the ment system known as C.L.A.I.M.S. land Tribune, and Contra Costa Times where European Theater of Operations in 1940 Ms. McDermott’s work is certainly admirable he reported on politics and policy-making. where his 26th Infantry Regiment of the 1st In- and notable. A devoted wife and mother of Upon joining the County, Mr. Diokno served fantry Division led America’s first-ever combat four children, she will always consider the as a Senior Field Representative and then a amphibious assault in North Africa. His divi- Philadelphia Municipal Court to be her second Policy Analyst before stepping into his current sion, nicknamed the ‘‘Big Red One’’ for the family. Mr. Speaker, please join me in hon- position with Supervisor Glover. In his various red Arabic numeral 1 on their shoulder sleeve oring Ms. Patricia McDermott for the wonderful roles, Mr. Diokno facilitated the County’s first insignia, fought the enemy at Tunisia’s Kas- work she has done and continues to do for the recognition of the contributions of Filipino serine Pass, the Amphibious Battle of Gela, Philadelphia Municipal Courts. Americans, developed small business initia- Sicily, the Normandy invasion, the battle of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26SE8.001 E26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1269 Aachen, Germany, and the Battle of the Bulge lies acknowledging the impact of Lynn’s tire- needs adopted child, raising them in a warm in Belgium’s Ardennes province. less service and instrumental contributions to and loving home in Winchester, Virginia. Dur- The Big Red One held the critical shoulder Colorado’s community as well as her potential ing Colleen’s service to the New Eve Maternity of the Bulge at Bu¨llingen—a small, rural town to influence national policy. Home, a home for expectant women in crisis of 2,000 residents—facing insurmountable I extend my deepest congratulations to Lynn pregnancy in Winchester, she met a young odds, rallying to their motto: ‘‘No Mission Too Johnson for this well-deserved recognition by mother and her twin newborn boys. Upon see- Difficult. No Sacrifice Too Great.’’ PFC Kelly the West Chamber of Jefferson County. ing the traumatic situation, when the young was Killed In Action on a snowy, bitterly cold f mothers’ drug abuse and other mental health day, December 21st, 1944, and for his sac- problems caused Child Protective Services to rifice was awarded a Bronze Star and two HONORING MR. FRANK MONTEIRO plan on placing the newborns in a temporary Purple Hearts. His name is inscribed on the foster arrangement, Colleen and Richard of- 1st Infantry Division obelisk in Bu¨llingen, com- HON. ELIZABETH H. ESTY fered to take the twins into their home and memorating the 458 Big Red One soldiers OF CONNECTICUT care for them until the young woman was able who died there while ‘‘fighting for the liberty of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to provide a stable upbringing. the world.’’ Tuesday, September 26, 2017 What was expected to be a few weeks of He was brought home to his final resting care was extended to months, and now about place in the Gallaher Cemetery on Glenrock Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, I two years. While the last two years have sure- Rd less than a mile from his family’s farmland rise today to honor Frank Monteiro, the Chief ly been filled with joyous moments, it has not through which the Factory Creek flows. Many Operating Officer of MacDermid Performance always been easy. Colleen and Richard have family memories were made with his nine sib- Solutions and a true leader in the Waterbury, seen the young mother through many hard- lings, on this land, in this creek, and through- Connecticut community. Today, the Waterbury ships and crises, always encouraging her to out his 32 years. Regional Chamber is honoring Frank with the maintain a close relationship with her sons, We dedicate the Factory Creek Bridge to 2017 Malcolm Baldrige Community Award for even though it means frequent transporting of the memory of PFC Freelon F. Kelly, WWII his success at MacDermid and his commit- the twin boys to the mother’s new home in an- hero, who not only ensured the lives lost in ment to the City of Waterbury. other city. By opening their home and their combat were not lost in vain, but also em- A Waterbury native, Frank has been with hearts, Colleen and Richard have dem- bodied the legacy of service and sacrifice of MacDermid for nearly two decades. During onstrated the most sincere form of love pos- The Greatest Generation. Frank’s time with MacDermid, he has helped sible. f guide the company through substantial transi- I am grateful to Colleen and Richard for tions for the business and the local economy. helping the mothers and children who live at LYNN JOHNSON Frank has been a champion for expanding the the New Eve Maternity Home and for the in- company’s presence in Waterbury, working to credible generosity and sensitivity they have HON. ED PERLMUTTER protect 200 jobs at the research and develop- displayed in caring for the twins as though OF COLORADO ment center and encouraging the company to they were their own, as well as their willing- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES expand its workforce in our town. He has ness to return them to their natural mother, if served as COO of Performance Solutions Tuesday, September 26, 2017 she becomes able to care for them. Mr. since 2015. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise In addition to his leadership in local busi- recognizing Colleen and Richard’s tireless today to recognize and applaud Lynn Johnson ness, Frank has dedicated his time and exper- dedication to foster care, making these par- for receiving the West Chamber’s 2017 Jeffer- tise to support important causes in his com- ents not only stand out in Virginia’s Tenth son County Hall of Fame Award. munity. He works with the Waterbury Regional Congressional District, but earning our rec- The Hall of Fame Award recognizes out- Chamber’s professional development program ognition as deserving of the 2017 Angels in standing individuals who have significant, and is an active supporter of Multiple Sclerosis Adoption award. long-lasting impacts through their leadership research and the Greater Waterbury f and contributions to Jefferson County’s econ- Campership Fund. Frank also serves on the omy, community and legacy. Known for her boards of a number of local groups including MIKE MOORE dedication in helping children, families, and the Waterbury Sportsmen’s Club, the Water- those who need it most, Lynn has faithfully bury Symphony Orchestra, the Naugatuck Val- HON. ED PERLMUTTER served Jefferson County and greater Colorado ley Community College, and the United Way OF COLORADO for over twenty years. Lynn began her career of Greater Waterbury. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES as a probation and parole officer with the Mr. Speaker, Frank Monteiro has been an Tuesday, September 26, 2017 United States Courts where she was respon- instrumental leader in our Waterbury commu- sible for supervising offenders with mental nity, both as a leader of MacDermid Perform- Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise health problems and those convicted of sex ance Solutions and a champion for our local today to recognize and applaud Mike Moore offenses. Later she acted as a policy advisor economy. Therefore, it is fitting and proper for receiving the West Chamber’s 2017 Jeffer- for Governor Bill Owens before assuming the that we honor him here today and congratu- son County Hall of Fame Award. position of Chief of Staff to the Lieutenant late him on this well-deserved award. The Hall of Fame Award recognizes out- Governor Jane Norton in 2003. Following this f standing individuals who have significant, position, Lynn managed her own consulting long-lasting impacts through their leadership firm which specialized in issues regarding IN RECOGNITION OF VIRGINIA’S and contributions to Jefferson County’s econ- mental health, high risk youth, developmental 10TH DISTRICT 2017 ANGELS IN omy, community and legacy. disabilities, child welfare and early childhood ADOPTION AWARDEE As a Colorado native, Mike has faithfully education. In that role, Lynn helped develop served the Jefferson County community his programs related to juvenile justice, prioritizing HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK entire life. After serving in the Peace Corps, children and familial wellbeing. OF VIRGINIA Mike returned to Denver in 1966 to become During her career, Lynn was appointed to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the Executive Director of Denver Opportunity various task forces by three different Colorado at the War on Poverty Community Action Governors including Welfare Reform, Youth Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Agency. Mike later co-founded the Jefferson Leadership Commission, and most recently, Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, it is an County Open Living School in Evergreen open Colorado’s Human Trafficking Council. Lynn honor to recognize the generosity of a family to anyone within the county who wished to at- currently serves as the Executive Director of in Virginia’s 10th Congressional District, Col- tend. Turning his attention to the environment, Jefferson County Human Services which in- leen and Richard Davis. The Davis’ have pro- in 1972 Mike was a founding member of Plan cludes Divisions of Head Start, Career and vided a loving home to two beautiful twin Jeffco, which advocated for the creation of the Family Services, Community Assistance, boys, and, this year, I am pleased to congratu- Jefferson County Open Space (JCOS) pro- Workforce and Youth and Families (Child Wel- late them on being the Tenth District Angels in gram. The following year Mike was appointed fare). Earlier this year, she was nominated by Adoption Awardee. a founding member of the Jefferson County President Trump to be the Assistant Secretary Colleen and Richard had three biological Open Space Advisory Committee overseeing for the Administration for Children and Fami- children of their own, as well as one special the JCOS program, which has since helped

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26SE8.004 E26SEPT1 E1270 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks September 26, 2017 preserve the natural and cultural resources of Lead with the Modular-Transition office. In has championed for decades. He has dedi- over 50,000 acres of land. Mike also helped 2016, Kevin moved to the Manager role and cated his life to our nation’s military, and we found the Evergreen Center for the Arts in led the team on House-wide projects, includ- are truly humbled to honor him. 1976, establishing an outlet for local artists to ing the Cannon House Office Building Re- Leadership is not as it appears, but as it pursue their creative endeavors. In 1988, Mike newal Relocations effort. Over many years, performs. We join his family and friends in helped found Culture Jeffco and promoted the Kevin has provided guidance to management dedicating the Sidney Brown Bistro to CSM formation of the Scientific and Cultural Facili- as a subject-matter expert on House oper- Brown, who ensured our veterans’ sacrifices ties District. A year later he was appointed as ations, and he has been an integral part of the are revered and repaid. the founding chairman of the Jefferson County CAO. f Cultural Council, the governing board of the Among his many accomplishments over the PERSONAL EXPLANATION Scientific and Cultural Facilities District that years, Kevin supervised the CAO’s Transition was responsible for distributing the county’s Office staff over the past eight Congressional annual share of Tier III funds for art, music, transitions. He was always the first to arrive HON. LISA BLUNT ROCHESTER theater, dance, zoology, botany, natural his- and last to leave. He provided the transitional OF DELAWARE tory, or cultural history. move coordinators with the knowledge and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mike’s civic achievements include recogni- support necessary to assist incoming fresh- Tuesday, September 26, 2017 tion from the Jefferson County League of man Members and participating returning Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. Mr. Speaker, I Women Voters as well as the Rex Morgan Cit- Members effectively and efficiently. Not only wish to clarify my position for the record on izen Volunteer Award. In his five decades in has Kevin been thoroughly involved with Con- roll call votes cast on September 25, 2017. the Jefferson County area, Mike has worked gressional Transitions, his extensive CAO and On Roll Call Vote Number 530, on consider- tirelessly to improve the City of Evergreen and House knowledge put him in a position to be- ation of H.R. 3823 I did not vote. It was my Jefferson County through public service. come the Clerk’s Office’s main point of contact intention to vote ‘‘No.’’ I extend my deepest congratulations to Mike for all Congressional special elections. On Roll Call Vote Number 531, on consider- Moore for this well-deserved recognition by Furthermore, Kevin has dedicated his career ation of H.R. 2061 I did not vote. It was my the West Chamber of Jefferson County. to making the CAO and the House of Rep- intention to vote ‘‘Yea.’’ f resentatives a better place to work and a f place that runs as smoothly and efficiently as THANKING KEVIN CHAMBERS FOR possible. He has passed along his many years GREG STEVINSON HIS SERVICE TO THE HOUSE of project management and customer service experience to staff and coworkers so they can HON. ED PERLMUTTER HON. STENY H. HOYER continue the extremely high standards of qual- OF COLORADO OF MARYLAND ity service expected by the CAO. On behalf of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the entire House, I extend congratulations to Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Kevin for his many years of dedication and Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise outstanding contributions. I hope my col- today to recognize and applaud Greg Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to offer my leagues will join me in wishing him and his Stevinson for receiving the West Chamber’s thanks to Kevin Chambers for over thirty-five wife Cynthia many happy years together in re- 2017 Jefferson County Hall of Fame Award. years of dedicated service to the United tirement. States House of Representatives. Kevin will The Hall of Fame Award recognizes out- f be retiring this Friday, September 29. He is a standing individuals who have significant, constituent in Maryland’s Fifth Congressional HONORING CSM (RET.) SIDNEY long-lasting impacts through their leadership District, living in Calvert County, and I am BROWN and contributions to Jefferson County’s econ- proud to represent him and his family in Con- omy, community and legacy. gress. HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN As a resident of Jefferson County for over Kevin has been the very definition of excep- fifty years, Greg has used his leadership and OF TENNESSEE business insight to help shape our community. tional customer service that all Chief Adminis- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES trative Office (CAO) employees strive to pro- Greg was instrumental in the creation of the vide to the House community. His thorough Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Colorado Mills Mall and the Denver West Of- leadership and oversight in assisting Members Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, today we fice Park in Lakewood. For these efforts he re- with setting up their offices and with reloca- honor retired Army Command Sergeant Major ceived the honor of being named tions during numerous Congressional transi- Sidney Brown, decorated combat soldier, pas- businessperson of the year by the Rocky tions has provided a template for success for sionate community leader, and tireless advo- Mountain News. Greg has also been an ar- many years to come. Kevin’s extensive knowl- cate for the Clarksville-Montgomery County dent supporter of open space in Jefferson edge of House furniture and its history and his area and its veterans. County. He served on committees including mastery of building and sustaining relation- During 30 years of active military duty, CSM Jefferson County Open Space, Save Open ships with Members and staff has resulted in Brown deployed with the 101st Airborne Divi- Space and Jeffco Outdoors Foundation. cohesiveness and joint partnerships through- sion, serving two tours in Vietnam, Germany, Greg has served on several boards includ- out the House campus. He has also main- and Korea, earning distinction as a member of ing the Colorado Baseball Stadium District, tained strong relationships over the years with the Triple Nickle—555th Parachute Infantry Red Rocks Community College Foundation colleagues from the CAO and Architect of the Association. For his outstanding service, he and Craig Hospital. He is known for his per- Capitol offices. For all who have had the was awarded the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star, sonal drive, public service, and cultural con- pleasure of working with him, Kevin has been and multiple medals and badges. tributions, which have made a tremendous im- an invaluable asset and will be greatly missed. Upon retirement, he was elected as a Mont- pact on this county. Kevin began his career with the House CAO gomery County Commissioner. Within one I extend my deepest congratulations to Greg on December 12, 1980 as a Laborer. In March year of appointment as Chairman of the Stevinson for this well-deserved recognition by 1987 he advanced to Assistant Warehouse Clarksville-Montgomery Veterans’ Home the West Chamber of Jefferson County. Manager and became Warehouse Manager in Board, he gathered support from city council f 1990. In that capacity, he served as a point of members, county commissioners, and state TAIWAN NATIONAL DAY contact between CAO staff and Members of and federal officials to build a much-needed Congress regarding service orders for office nursing home for veterans to ‘‘give back to HON. JOHN SHIMKUS furnishings. In 2001, the CAO called upon them what they sacrificed to give us.’’ In spite OF ILLINOIS Kevin to offer his expertise to the newly devel- of many obstacles in fundraising and land ac- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES oped First Call customer service center as a quisition, the Veterans’ Home opened in Senior Customer Solutions Consultant. There, 2016—due in large part to CSM Brown’s Tuesday, September 26, 2017 he provided guidance, advice, and assistance steadfast mission. His ever-present enthu- Mr. SHIMKUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to to House offices regarding the selection and siasm, determination and devotion make him congratulate our friend, Taiwan, as it com- purchase of office furniture, equipment, and an inspirational model for the active-duty sol- memorates the 106th anniversary of its Na- supplies. Later, Kevin became a Senior Team diers, veteran students and ROTC cadets he tional Day on October 10th.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K26SE8.008 E26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1271 The United States and Taiwan have always HONORING THE TEXAS MILITARY I honor the Texas Military Department and had a strong relationship, even in the absence DEPARTMENT FOR THEIR ROLE the countless first responders who answered of formal diplomatic ties. This relationship has IN HURRICANE HARVEY RELIEF the call for help from their fellow Texans. led to cooperation in many areas such as mat- EFFORTS f ters of international security, trade and investment, cultural exchange and education, etc. HONORING ST. MICHAEL PARISH HON. MARC A. VEASEY ON THEIR 150TH ANNIVERSARY Taiwan is also a great friend in times of need. OF TEXAS When Hurricane Harvey recently wrought de- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES struction and wreaked havoc in areas of Tuesday, September 26, 2017 HON. DANIEL LIPINSKI Texas, Louisiana, Puerto Rico and Virgin Is- OF ILLINOIS lands Taiwan made a generous contribution of Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES recognition of the Texas Military Department $800,000 to help the hurricane’s victims. Tai- Tuesday, September 26, 2017 wan’s President, Tsai Ing-wen, repeatedly ex- for their outstanding response and service to Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pressed concern for our country’s hurricane the state in the wake of Hurricane Harvey. The Texas Military Department is a unique honor all of the parishioners and clergy—past victims, and the people of Taiwan have, once force comprised of the Texas Army National and present—of St. Michael Parish in Orland again, demonstrated their friendship with the Guard, the Texas Air National Guard, the Park, Illinois, as they celebrate the 150th anni- United States. Texas State Guard and the Domestic Oper- versary of their parish. We need to continue to give Taiwan all the ations Task Force. With little notice, Texas Established shortly after the end of the Civil support it needs. Taiwan is a democracy and National and State Guard forces mobilized to War, St. Michael Parish began with a simple deserves our friendship and best wishes. participate in search and rescue missions, pro- wooden church, twenty feet long and thirty It is my privilege today to rise to congratu- vide vital first aid, and assist in transportation feet wide. The first Mass was held on the late Taiwan as it celebrates its 106th National and distribution support to the storm-ravaged Feast of St. Michael the Archangel on Sep- Day. areas of the Lone Star State. The 12,000 sol- tember 29, 1867. After World War II, the par- f diers of the Texas National Guard are fully ish began construction of a grade school PERSONAL EXPLANATION mobilized and completely engaged in oper- which opened in September, 1949, to better ations serving Texans in need. serve the growing parish. As growth continued Since Hurricane Harvey made landfall, the a new church needed to be built and was HON. KAY GRANGER Texas National Guard has performed more dedicated in 1969, followed by a Parish Activi- OF TEXAS than 16,000 rescues and evacuated more than ties Center in 1981. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 7,400 people and 1,000 animals They also en- What has remained constant through all of Tuesday, September 26, 2017 sured that the immediate needs of Texas resi- the changes is the commitment of St. Mi- dents were met by setting up over 30 points Ms. GRANGER. Mr. Speaker, due to a per- chael’s parishioners to be a gathering of of distribution for food, water, and other vital Catholic people believing in God’s love, mani- sonal conflict, I was unable to make votes. commodities between Beaumont and Corpus Had I been present, I would have voted YEA fested by His Son Jesus, and working to fulfill Christi. There are 35 active Texas State His mission on earth. I have experienced the on Roll Call No. 530, and YEA on Roll Call Guard Shelter teams sheltering more than No. 531. daily manifestation of this commitment during 8,000 evacuees at 13 shelters across the my visits to St. Michael Parish, whether for f state and the Texas National Guard assisted worship or to visit the school. St. Michael RECOGNIZING AIR EVAC in setting up three evacuation hubs. Rescue School is an exemplary Catholic elementary LIFETEAM efforts have involved over 400 vehicles rang- school that has won a National Blue Ribbon ing from Humvees and troop transport vehi- Award and emphasizes academics, moral val- HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN cles to re-fuelers and wreckers. The Texas ues, and discipline. The spirit of the school National Guard also deployed its 16 aircraft really shined through during my visit for OF TENNESSEE fleet to support rescue operations all along the Catholic Schools Week. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES coast, including numerous Blackhawk, Lakota, Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to recog- Tuesday, September 26, 2017 and Chinook helicopters. nize Father Paul Burak and all the parish- Not only have Texas’ military forces proved Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, more than ioners of St. Michael, and congratulate them crucial during the aftermath of Hurricane Har- on the 150th anniversary of their parish. May 46 million Americans and tens of thousands of vey, the Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth lo- Tennesseans live over an hour away from their community continue to thrive and grow in cated in my district continues to play a critical God’s love. Level 1 or 2 trauma centers, making them role in the relief effort. The base housed a f twice as likely to die from an accident or med- massive influx of aircraft that was evacuated ical condition. Rapid, sophisticated, air trans- ahead of the storm in order to avoid damage WORLD CONTRACEPTION DAY portation is their only option for complex, time- to critical military weaponry. It also became a dependent care. rallying point for military and other first re- HON. GENE GREEN That is why today we recognize Air Evac sponders from all over the country to organize Lifeteam for its critical service to rural, medi- OF TEXAS recovery efforts. I cannot stress enough the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cally-underserved communities. Five bases in importance of this strategic base and its role Lawrenceburg, Parsons, Savannah, Waverly, in providing a swift response during the imme- Tuesday, September 26, 2017 and Waynesboro, Tennessee, serve all 19 diate aftermath of Hurricane Harvey. Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, contiguous counties in the 7th Congressional The Texas Military Department’s dedication today is World Contraception Day, which pro- District through advanced helicopter ambu- to working around the clock in incredibly chal- vides us an opportunity to talk about the im- lances and personnel. lenging conditions and its demonstrated ability portance of access to contraceptives. Their crews of 65 pilots, nurses, para- to integrate seamlessly with active duty mili- The Centers for Disease Control and Pre- medics, and mechanics maintain a patient-first tary troops, first responders, and the myriad of vention has called contraception one of the focus on high-tech, fixed- and rotary-wing air- volunteers in the midst of one of the worst nat- greatest public health interventions of the 20th craft. Many pilots, having served in Iraq and ural disasters to affect Texas is truly an em- Century. Afghanistan on military air assaults and bodiment of their motto of ‘‘Texans Serving They improve overall health and well-being, medivac missions, use those same skills to Texas.’’ reduce maternal mortality, and allow women to save thousands of lives every year in Ten- The Texas Military Department’s response have greater control over their bodies and nessee. Many crews are regularly deployed to Hurricane Harvey complimented federal ef- their lives. for disaster relief nationwide. Their service is forts and the countless Texans who rose to The Affordable Care Act mandated contra- invaluable. the challenge of helping their fellow Texans ception coverage with no co-pays, and the evi- Air medical transportation will ensure access during their time of need. As a member of the dence of the value of this protection is clear. to emergency health care for the people who House Armed Services Committee and a na- We should build on this success and ensure need it most, and Air Evac Lifeteam puts the tive Texan, I could not be more proud of my all women—both here at home and across the journey in experienced, cutting-edged, com- state’s response during one of the worst nat- globe—have access to affordable, live-chang- passionate hands ural disasters to ever affect Texas. ing contraception.

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COMMEMORATING ENFIELD PO- thy Shelton, as she celebrates 100 years of Congressman JIMMY PANETTA, I rise today to LICE EXPLORERS’ 50TH ANNI- love, life and dedicated service to her commu- acknowledge Housing Choices Coalition for VERSARY nity. persons with Developmental Disabilities On Thursday, October 5th, 2017, Pomona (Housing Choices). This organization was HON. JOE COURTNEY resident Dorothy Shelton will celebrate her founded in 1997 with the goal of creating qual- 100th birthday. Ms Shelton has resided in my OF CONNECTICUT ity, affordable housing opportunities for people IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES home district for the last 13 years where she lives with her daughter Sonya Muhammad We with developmental disabilities in Santa Clara, Tuesday, September 26, 2017 are lucky to have someone like Ms. Shelton in Santa Cruz, Monterey and San Benito Coun- Mr. COURTNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today California’s 35th district. ties. to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Ms. Shelton was born and raised in Chi- Because of the lack of affordable and inclu- Enfield Police Explorers. The Enfield Police cago, Illinois, where in 1942 she began what sive housing choices for people with develop- Explorer program was founded in 1967 by the would begin a lifelong career in public service mental disabilities, Housing Choices was late Chief Walter J. Skower to serve as a life- by working for the Internal Revenue Service. launched with the mission of enhancing the line for troubled youth and as an opportunity During her time there, she worked in the Spe- quality of life for people with developmental for those interested in law enforcement. At its cial Procedures section of the Collection De- inception, the program was the first in the partment. Ms. Shelton oversaw liens, levies, disabilities. Their hope was to relieve the seg- state of Connecticut and the second in the na- and the acquisition of personal property. regation sometimes experienced by adults in tion. After 24 years of dedicated service in the restrictive residential facilities. The Enfield Police Department provides its IRS, Ms. Shelton went on to perform the same Housing Choices partnership model of per- Explorers with a firsthand view of what it’s like level of service for the Bureau of Alcohol, To- manent supportive housing for people with de- bacco, and Firearms in 1966. Once there, she to be a Law Enforcement Officer. They receive velopmental disabilities seeks to work with worked with a team of investigators who con- CPR and first aid training, physical fitness in- local jurisdictions and housing developers to struction, and traditional classroom education fiscated illegal firearms and enforced federal secure long-term commitments of rental units designed to prepare them for a career in Law laws regarding the illegal possession and in new affordable housing properties for peo- Enforcement, military or community service, sales of alcohol and tobacco. and related careers. The Explorers use their Mr. Speaker, Dorothy’s dedication extends ple with developmental disabilities. Residents training to support the police department and far beyond her government service. Ms are then assisted in maintaining their housing community by providing traffic control and se- Shelton has always been a community advo- with an onsite Resident Coordinator. This cate and has belonged to numerous commu- curity at various events, volunteering their time housing model promotes integration of people nity organizations and social service agencies. and efforts to support many local and national with developmental disabilities in typical af- She once supervised a housing program fund- charities, and even aiding in emergency situa- fordable housing communities. ed by the City of Chicago, where she helped tions including storm response and locating secure housing for low-income families in the Since 2002, Housing Choices has provided missing persons. Each year Explorers attend region. Ms. Shelton was also the first African housing advice to 3,000 people with develop- various competitions and a week-long acad- American president for the National Treasury mental disabilities. They further support hous- emy, where they consistently earn accolades Employees Union, Chapter 94, from 1966 to ing stability for residents by providing on-site and awards. While many members have in- her retirement in 1981. resident support services for hundreds of peo- deed gone on to become Law Enforcement She retired with 38 years of service to the ple. Housing Choices’ approach has helped professionals and members of the Armed government. She is loved by her daughter, Forces, most importantly, Explorers become over 1,000 people with developmental disabil- two grandsons and their wives, and six great- ities annually navigate entry points into the responsible citizens and contributors to their grandchildren. Dorothy Shelton is indeed Po- community’s supply of affordable rental hous- communities. mona’s national treasure. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me For her endless dedication to her family and ing properties. in celebrating the Enfield Police Explorers pro- her community, and for being an example of Housing Choices helps residents with devel- gram. In its fifty years, the program has be- love and kindness, I would like to recognize opmental disabilities understand and comply come a bridge between the law enforcement Ms. Shelton for such a monumental feat, and with lease terms and property rules to prevent and youth, fostering public safety as a career wish her a very Happy Birthday on the House evictions. They accomplish this by helping to opportunity, while working to make the com- floor today. resolve problems with neighbors, roommates, munity a better place. f and property managers. Housing Choices f IN HONOR OF HOUSING CHOICES sponsors regular workshops and social events RECOGNIZING THE CENTENNIAL COALITION FOR PERSONS WITH for residents. This helps foster leadership BIRTHDAY OF DOROTHY SHELTON DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES among tenants By fostering understanding and respect they also help create supportive com- HON. NORMA J. TORRES HON. ZOE LOFGREN munities of friends and neighbors to further in- OF CALIFORNIA OF CALIFORNIA tegrate residents into their community. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, please join me in honoring Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Tuesday, September 26, 2017 HCC for twenty years of extraordinary leader- Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Ms. LOFGREN. Mr. Speaker, along with my ship and advocacy in the community of San honor a long-time resident of my district, Doro- colleagues Congresswoman ANNA ESHOO and Jose and for persons with disabilities globally.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:25 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A26SE8.016 E26SEPT1 Tuesday, September 26, 2017 Daily Digest Senate APEC Business Travel Cards Reauthorization Chamber Action Act: Senate passed S. 504, to permanently authorize Routine Proceedings, pages S6097–S6158 the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Measures Introduced: Twelve bills and one resolu- Travel Card Program, after agreeing to the following tion were introduced, as follows: S. 1857–1868, and amendment proposed thereto: Pages S6144–45 S. Res. 268. Page S6134 Cornyn (for Hirono) Amendment No. 1104, in the nature of a substitute. Pages S6144–45 Measures Reported: S. 607, to establish a business incubators program Harmful Algal Bloom and Hypoxia Research within the Department of the Interior to promote and Control Amendments Act: Senate passed S. economic development in Indian reservation commu- 1057, to amend the Harmful Algal Bloom and Hy- poxia Research and Control Act of 1998 to address nities. (S. Rept. No. 115–163) Page S6133 harmful algal blooms, after agreeing to the com- Measures Passed: mittee amendment in the nature of a substitute, and Secretary of Education Waiver Authority: Senate the following amendment proposed thereto: passed S. 1866, to provide the Secretary of Education Pages S6145–47 with waiver authority for the reallocation rules and Cornyn (for Lee) Amendment No. 1105, relating authority to extend the deadline by which funds to hypoxia or harmful algal bloom of national sig- have to be reallocated in the campus-based aid pro- nificance. Pages S6146–47 grams under the Higher Education Act of 1965 due Creating High-Quality Results and Outcomes to Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, and Hurricane Necessary to Improve Chronic (CHRONIC) Care Maria, to provide equitable services to children and Act: Senate passed S. 870, to amend title XVIII of teachers in private schools. Pages S6142–43 the Social Security Act to implement Medicare pay- RAISE Family Caregivers Act: Senate passed S. ment policies designed to improve management of 1028, to provide for the establishment and mainte- chronic disease, streamline care coordination, and nance of a Family Caregiving Strategy, after agreeing improve quality outcomes without adding to the to the following amendments proposed thereto: deficit, after agreeing to the committee amendment Pages S6147–53 Page S6143 in the nature of a substitute. Cornyn (for Collins) Amendment No. 1101, in Measures Considered: the nature of a substitute. Page S6143 National Defense Authorization Act—Agree- Cornyn (for Collins) Amendment No. 1102, to ment: Senate continued consideration of the motion amend the title. Page S6143 to proceed to consideration of S. 1519, to authorize Humanitarian Crises in Nigeria, Somalia, appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for military ac- South Sudan, and Yemen: Senate agreed to S. Res. tivities of the Department of Defense, for military 114, expressing the sense of the Senate on humani- construction, and for defense activities of the Depart- tarian crises in Nigeria, Somalia, South Sudan, and ment of Energy, to prescribe military personnel Yemen, after withdrawing the committee amend- strengths for such fiscal year. ment in the nature of a substitute, and agreeing to Pages S6097–S6108, S6108–21, S6122–27 the following amendment proposed thereto: A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- Pages S6143–44 viding for further consideration of the motion to Cornyn (for Lee) Amendment No. 1103, to recog- proceed to consideration of bill at approximately 10 nize that charities, non-profit organizations, religious a.m., on Wednesday, September 27, 2017. organizations, and businesses of the United States Page S6153 have an important role in addressing humanitarian Erickson Nomination—Cloture: Senate began con- crises. Pages S6143–44 sideration of the nomination of Ralph R. Erickson, D1008

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D26SE7.REC D26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1009 of North Dakota, to be United States Circuit Judge for the Eighth Circuit. Page S6121 Committee Meetings A motion was entered to close further debate on (Committees not listed did not meet) the nomination, and, in accordance with the provisions of Rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the NOMINATION Senate, a vote on cloture will occur on Thursday, Committee on Armed Services: Committee concluded a September 28, 2017. Page S6121 hearing to examine the nomination of General Jo- Prior to the consideration of this nomination, Sen- seph F. Dunford, Jr., USMC, for reappointment to ate took the following action: the grade of general and reappointment to be Chair- Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Execu- man of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, after the nominee tive Session to consider the nomination. Page S6121 testified and answered questions in his own behalf. Pai Nomination—Cloture: Senate began consider- BUSINESS MEETING ation of the nomination of Ajit Varadaraj Pai, of Kansas, to be a Member of the Federal Communica- Committee on Armed Services: Committee ordered favorably reported 3,196 nominations in the Army, Navy, tions Commission. Page S6121 Air Force, and Marine Corps. A motion was entered to close further debate on the nomination, and, in accordance with the provi- SEC OVERSIGHT sions of Rule XXII of the Standing Rules of the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: Senate, a vote on cloture will occur upon disposition Committee concluded an oversight hearing to exam- of the nomination of Ralph R. Erickson, of North ine the Securities and Exchange Commission, after Dakota, to be United States Circuit Judge for the receiving testimony from Jay Clayton, Chairman, Se- Eighth Circuit. Page S6121 curities and Exchange Commission. Prior to the consideration of this nomination, Sen- ate took the following action: FTC STAKEHOLDER PERSPECTIVES Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Legisla- Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: Sub- tive Session. Page S6121 committee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Senate agreed to the motion to proceed to Execu- Insurance, and Data Security concluded a hearing to tive Session to consider the nomination. Page S6121 examine Federal Trade Commission stakeholder perspectives, focusing on reform proposals to improve Messages from the House: Page S6131 fairness, innovation, and consumer welfare, after re- Measures Referred: Page S6131 ceiving testimony from William MacLeod, Kelley Measures Read the First Time: Pages S6131, S6153 Drye and Warren LLP, Lydia Parnes, Wilson Sonsini Goodrich and Rosati PC, Jessica Rich, Consumer Executive Communications: Pages S6131–33 Reports, and Berin Szoka, TechFreedom, all of Executive Reports of Committees: Pages S6133–34 Washington, D.C. Additional Cosponsors: Pages S6134–36 NOMINATIONS Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee Pages S6136–39 concluded a hearing to examine the nominations of Additional Statements: Pages S6130–31 Bruce J. Walker, of New York, to be an Assistant Secretary (Electricity Delivery and Energy Reli- Amendments Submitted: Pages S6139–41 ability), and Steven E. Winberg, of Pennsylvania, to Authorities for Committees to Meet: be an Assistant Secretary (Fossil Energy), both of the Pages S6141–42 Department of Energy, after the nominees testified Adjournment: Senate convened at 10 a.m. and ad- and answered questions in their own behalf. journed at 7:08 p.m., until 10 a.m. on Wednesday, BUSINESS MEETING September 27, 2017. (For Senate’s program, see the Committee on Foreign Relations: Committee ordered fa- remarks of the Acting Majority Leader in today’s vorably reported the nominations of Jon M. Hunts- Record on page S6153.) man, Jr., of Utah, to be Ambassador to the Russian Federation, Justin Hicks Siberell, of Maryland, to be Ambassador to the Kingdom of Bahrain, and A. Wess Mitchell, of Virginia, to be an Assistant Sec- retary (European and Eurasian Affairs), all of the De- partment of State, and J. Steven Dowd, of Florida,

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to be United States Director of the African Develop- ers, including S. 1735, to limit the removal of a spe- ment Bank. cial counsel, and S. 1741, to ensure independent in- SECURITY ASSISTANCE AND FOREIGN vestigations by allowing judicial review of the re- POLICY moval of a special counsel, after receiving testimony from Akhil Reed Amar, Yale University, New Committee on Foreign Relations: Committee concluded a hearing to examine managing security assistance to Haven, Connecticut; Eric A. Posner, University of support foreign policy, after receiving testimony Chicago Law School, Chicago, Illinois; Stephen I. from Tina S. Kaidanow, Acting Assistant Secretary Vladeck, University of Texas School of Law, Austin; of State; and Todd Harvey, Acting Assistant Sec- and John F. Duffy, University of Virginia School of retary for Strategy, Plans and Capabilities, and Lieu- Law, Charlottesville. tenant General Charles W. Hooper, USA, Director, Defense Security Cooperation Agency, both of the INTELLIGENCE Department of Defense. Select Committee on Intelligence: Committee met in SPECIAL COUNSELS AND THE SEPARATION closed session to receive a briefing on certain intel- OF POWERS ligence matters from officials of the intelligence community. Committee on the Judiciary: Committee concluded a to examine special counsels and the separation of pow- h House of Representatives Guest Chaplain: The prayer was offered by the Chamber Action Guest Chaplain, Rev. William Lynn Nash, Glad Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 16 pub- Tidings Pentecostal Church, Mangham, Louisiana. lic bills, H.R. 3829–3844; and 4 resolutions, H. Pages H7496–97 Con. Res. 80; and H. Res. 537 and 539–540 were Journal: The House agreed to the Speaker’s approval introduced. Pages H7532–33 of the Journal by a yea-and-nay vote of 214 yeas to Additional Cosponsors: Pages H7533–35 199 nays with one answering ‘‘present’’, Roll No. Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: 534. Pages H7497, H7505–06 H.R. 3229, to protect the safety of judges by ex- Motion to Fix Next Convening Time: Agreed by tending the authority of the Judicial Conference to voice vote to the Burgess motion that when the redact sensitive information contained in their finan- House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 3 p.m. cial disclosure reports, and for other purposes (H. tomorrow, September 27. Pages H7503–04 Rept. 115–332); and Recess: The House recessed at 2:51 p.m. and recon- H. Res. 538, providing for consideration of the vened at 3:14 p.m. Page H7514 bill (H.R. 3823) to amend title 49, United States Code, to extend authorizations for the airport im- Increasing Opportunity through Evidence-Based provement program, to amend the Internal Revenue Home Visiting Act: The House passed H.R. 2824, Code of 1986 to extend the funding and expenditure to amend title V of the Social Security Act to extend authority of the Airport and Airway Trust Fund, to the Maternal, Infant, and Early Childhood Home Visiting Program, by a recorded vote of 214 ayes to provide disaster tax relief, and for other purposes, 209 noes, Roll No. 537. Pages H7506–14, H7514–17 and providing for consideration of motions to sus- Rejected the DelBene motion to recommit the bill pend the rules (H. Rept. 115–333). Page H7532 to the Committee on Ways and Means with instruc- Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein he tions to report the same back to the House forthwith appointed Representative Brat to act as Speaker pro with an amendment, by a recorded vote of 191 ayes tempore for today. Page H7489 to 232 noes, Roll No. 536. Pages H7515–17 Recess: The House recessed at 11:08 a.m. and re- Pursuant to the Rule, an amendment in the na- convened at 12 noon. Page H7496 ture of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 115–33 shall be considered as an original bill for the purpose of amendment under the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D26SE7.REC D26SEPT1 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1011 five-minute rule, in lieu of the amendment in the Adjournment: The House met at 10 a.m. and ad- nature of a substitute recommended by the Com- journed at 6:01 p.m. mittee on Ways and Means now printed in the bill. Page H7510 Committee Meetings Agreed to: Smith (NE) amendment (No. 1 printed in H. POWERING AMERICA: TECHNOLOGY’S Rept. 115–331) that allows states to take into ac- ROLE IN EMPOWERING CONSUMERS count staffing, community resource, and other re- Committee on Energy And Commerce: Subcommittee on quirements when determining how to operate at Energy held a hearing entitled ‘‘Powering America: least one home visiting model in communities in Technology’s Role in Empowering Consumers’’. Tes- need of services; Pages H7511–12 timony was heard from public witnesses. DelBene amendment (No. 3 printed in H. Rept. THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE REDESIGN 115–331) that eliminates the bill’s matching requirement for tribal home visiting programs; and Committee on Foreign Affairs: Full Committee held a Page H7513 hearing entitled ‘‘The Department of State Rede- Murphy (FL) amendment (No. 4 printed in H. sign’’. Testimony was heard from John J. Sullivan, Rept. 115–331) that requires HRSA, to the extent Deputy Secretary, Department of State. it continues to allocate Home Visiting funding to RAISING THE STANDARD: DHS’S EFFORTS states and territories based in whole or in part on TO IMPROVE AVIATION SECURITY the relative share of families with young children AROUND THE GLOBE living at or below the federal poverty line in each Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on state and territory, to utilize the most accurate fed- Transportation and Protective Security held a hear- eral data available for each jurisdiction. ing entitled ‘‘Raising the Standard: DHS’s Efforts to Pages H7513–14 Improve Aviation Security Around the Globe’’. Tes- Rejected: timony was heard from Craig Lynes, Director of Pascrell amendment (No. 2 printed in H. Rept. Global Compliance, Office of Global Strategies, 115–331) that sought to maintain MIECHV’s cur- Transportation Security Administration, Department rent focus of funding evidence-based home visiting of Homeland Security; Todd C. Owen, Executive As- programs that strengthen families to make kids sistant Commissioner, Office of Field Operations, healthier, safer, and more ready to learn when they Customs and Border Protection, Department of start school by striking the provision in the bill that Homeland Security; and Jennifer Grover, Director, would add ‘‘increasing employment and earnings’’ to Homeland Security and Justice, Government Ac- the program’s measured outcomes (by a recorded countability Office. vote of 191 ayes to 231 noes, Roll No. 535). Pages H7512–13, H7514–15 DHS FINANCIAL SYSTEMS: WILL H. Res. 533, the rule providing for consideration MODERNIZATION EVER BE ACHIEVED of the bill (H.R. 2824) was agreed to by a recorded Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on vote of 230 ayes to 190 noes, Roll No. 533, after Oversight and Management Efficiency held a hearing the previous question was ordered by a yea-and-nay entitled ‘‘DHS Financial Systems: Will Moderniza- vote of 230 yeas to 189 nays, Roll No. 532. tion Ever Be Achieved’’. Testimony was heard from Pages H7499–H7503, H7504–05 Chip Fulghum, Deputy Under Secretary for Manage- Western Hemisphere Drug Policy Commission— ment, Department of Homeland Security; Michele Appointment: The Chair announced the Speaker’s Singer, Director, Interior Business Center, Depart- appointment of the following individual on the part ment of the Interior; Elizabeth Angerman, Executive of the House to the Western Hemisphere Drug Pol- Director, Unified Shared Services Management, Of- icy Commission: Mr. Matt Salmon of Mesa, Arizona. fice of Government-wide Policy, General Services Page H7517 Administration; and Asif Khan, Director, Financial Senate Message: Message received from the Senate Management and Assurance, Government Account- by the Clerk and subsequently presented to the ability Office. House today appears on page H7499. TRANSFORMING GPO FOR THE 21ST Quorum Calls—Votes: Two yea-and-nay votes and CENTURY AND BEYOND: PART 3— four recorded votes developed during the proceedings FEDERAL DEPOSITORY LIBRARY of today and appear on pages H7504, H7504–05. PROGRAM H7505–06, H7515, H7516–17, and H7517. There Committee on House Administration: Full Committee were no quorum calls. held a hearing entitled ‘‘Transforming GPO for the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D26SE7.REC D26SEPT1 D1012 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST September 26, 2017 21st Century and Beyond: Part 3—Federal Deposi- DISASTER TAX RELIEF AND AIRPORT AND tory Library Program’’. Testimony was heard from AIRWAY EXTENSION ACT Laurie Hall, Acting Superintendent of Documents, Committee on Rules: Full Committee held a hearing on Government Publishing Office; Stephen Parks, State H.R. 3823, the ‘‘Disaster Tax Relief and Airport and Librarian, Mississippi; and public witnesses. Airway Extension Act’’. The Committee granted, by record vote of 7–3, a closed rule for H.R. 3823. The LEGISLATIVE MEASURES rule provides one hour of debate with 40 minutes Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on equally divided and controlled by the chair and Water, Power and Oceans held a hearing on H.R. ranking minority member of the Committee on 200, the ‘‘Strengthening Fishing Communities and Ways and Means, and 20 minutes equally divided Increasing Flexibility in Fisheries Management Act’’; and controlled by the chair and ranking minority H.R. 2023, the ‘‘Modernizing Recreational Fisheries member of the Committee on Financial Services. The Management Act of 2017’’; H.R. 3588, the ‘‘RED rule waives all points of order against consideration SNAPPER Act’’; and legislation to amend and reau- of the bill and provides that the bill shall not be thorize the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery Conservation subject to a question of consideration. The rule pro- and Management Act, and for other purposes. Testi- vides that the amendment printed in the Rules Committee report shall be considered as adopted and mony was heard from Jonathan Mitchell, Mayor, the bill, as amended, shall be considered as read. The New Bedford, Massachusetts; Chris Blankenship, rule waives all points of order against provisions in Commissioner, Department of Conservation and the bill, as amended. The rule provides one motion Natural Resources, Alabama; Chris Oliver, Director, to recommit with or without instructions. In section National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration 2, the rule provides that it shall be in order at any Fisheries, Department of Commerce; and public wit- time on the legislative day of September 28, 2017, nesses. for the Speaker to entertain motions that the House suspend the rules and that the Speaker or his des- LEGISLATIVE MEASURES ignee shall consult with the Minority Leader or her Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on In- designee on the designation of any matter for consid- dian, Insular and Alaska Native Affairs held a hear- eration pursuant to this section. ing on H.R. 3535, the ‘‘Ruffey Rancheria Restora- BUILDING A 21ST CENTURY tion Act of 2017’’; H.R. 3650, the ‘‘Lumbee Rec- INFRASTRUCTURE FOR AMERICA: WATER ognition Act’’; and H.R. 3744, the ‘‘Tribal Recogni- STAKEHOLDERS’ PERSPECTIVES tion Act of 2017’’. Testimony was heard from Rep- resentative Pittenger; John Tahsuda, Principal Dep- Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Sub- committee on Water Resources and Environment uty Assistant Secretary—Indian Affairs, Department held a hearing entitled ‘‘Building a 21st Century In- of the Interior; and public witnesses. frastructure for America: Water Stakeholders’ Per- spectives’’. Testimony was heard from public wit- RECOMMENDATIONS OF THE COMMISSION nesses. ON EVIDENCE-BASED POLICYMAKING LEGISLATIVE MEASURES Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Full Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Recommenda- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on tions of the Commission on Evidence-Based Policy- Health held a hearing on H.R. 93, to amend title making’’. Testimony was heard from the following 38, United States Code, to provide for increased ac- Commission on Evidence Based Policy Making offi- cess to Department of Veterans Affairs medical care cials: Katharine G. Abraham, Chair; Ron Haskins, for women veterans; H.R. 501, the ‘‘VA Trans- Co-Chair; Robert Shea, Commissioner; and Latanya parency Enhancement Act of 2017’’; H.R. 1063, the Sweeney, Commissioner. ‘‘Veteran Prescription Continuity Act’’; H.R. 1066, the ‘‘VA Management Alignment Act of 2017’’; EXAMINING AMERICA’S NUCLEAR WASTE H.R. 1943, the ‘‘Restoring Maximum Mobility to Our Nation’s Veterans Act of 2017’’; H.R. 1972, MANAGEMENT AND STORAGE the ‘‘VA Billing Accountability Act’’; H.R. 2147, Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Sub- the ‘‘Veterans Treatment Court Improvement Act of committee on the Interior, Energy, and Environment 2017’’; H.R. 2225, the ‘‘Veterans Dog Training held a hearing entitled ‘‘Examining America’s Nu- Therapy Act’’; H.R. 2327, the ‘‘PAWS Act of clear Waste Management and Storage’’. Testimony 2017’’; and legislation on the VA’s Health Profes- was heard from public witnesses. sionals Educational Assistance Program. Testimony

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:11 Sep 28, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\RECORD17\D26SE7.REC D26SE7 September 26, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1013 was heard from Representatives Dingell, O’Rourke, sador to the Swiss Confederation, and to serve concur- Kilmer, King of Iowa, Smucker, Coffman, Stivers, rently and without additional compensation as Ambas- DeSantis, and Rutherford; Harold Kudler, M.D., sador to the Principality of Liechtenstein, Jamie McCourt, Acting Assistant Deputy Under Secretary for Health of California, to be Ambassador to the French Republic, for Patient Care Services, Veterans Health Adminis- and to serve concurrently and without additional compensation as Ambassador to the Principality of Monaco, tration, Department of Veterans Affairs; and public and Peter Hoekstra, of Michigan, to be Ambassador to witnesses. the Kingdom of the Netherlands, all of the Department of State, 2:15 p.m., SD–419. Joint Meetings Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: No joint committee meetings were held. to hold hearings to examine threats to the homeland, 10 a.m., SD–342. f Committee on Indian Affairs: to hold an oversight hearing to examine the Government Accountability Office re- COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR WEDNESDAY, ports on human trafficking of Native Americans in the SEPTEMBER 27, 2017 United States, 2:30 p.m., SD–628. (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: to hold hearings to examine the Small Business Administration’s Senate response to the 2017 hurricanes, 3 p.m., SR–428A. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: to Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: to hold hearings to exam- hold hearings to examine the nominations of Ann Marie ine preventing veteran suicide, 10 a.m., SR–418. Buerkle, of New York, to be Chairman of the Consumer Select Committee on Intelligence: to hold closed hearings to Product Safety Commission, Howard R. Elliott, of Indi- examine certain intelligence matters, 2:30 p.m., SH–219. ana, to be Administrator of the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration, Department of Transpor- House tation, and Walter G. Copan, of Colorado, to be Under Committee on Armed Services, Subcommittee on Tactical Secretary of Commerce for Standards and Technology, Air and Land Forces, hearing entitled ‘‘The Army’s Tac- 10:30 a.m., SR–253. tical Network Modernization Strategy’’, 2 p.m., 2212 Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Subcommittee Rayburn. on National Parks, to hold hearings to examine encour- Committee on Financial Services, Subcommittee on Hous- aging the next generation to visit National Parks, 2 p.m., ing and Insurance, hearing entitled ‘‘Overview of the SD–366. Family Self-Sufficiency Program’’, 3 p.m., 2128 Rayburn. Committee on Environment and Public Works: to hold hear- Committee on Foreign Affairs, Subcommittee on Africa, ings to examine forest management to mitigate wildfires, Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International focusing on legislative solutions, 10 a.m., SD–406. Organizations, hearing entitled ‘‘Rwanda: Democracy Committee on Foreign Relations: to hold hearings to exam- Thwarted’’, 3 p.m., 2200 Rayburn. ine the nominations of Kathleen M. Fitzpatrick, of the Subcommittee on Asia and the Pacific, hearing entitled District of Columbia, to be Ambassador to the Demo- ‘‘Burma’s Brutal Campaign Against the Rohingya’’, 2:30 cratic Republic of Timor-Leste, and Daniel J. p.m., 2172 Rayburn. Kritenbrink, of Virginia, to be Ambassador to the Social- Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Over- ist Republic of Vietnam, both of the Department of sight and Investigations, hearing entitled ‘‘Exploring So- State, 10:45 a.m., SD–419. lutions to Reduce Risks of Catastrophic Wildfire and Im- Full Committee, to hold hearings to examine the prove Resiliency of National Forests’’, 3 p.m., 1334 nominations of Richard Duke Buchan III, of Florida, to Longworth. be Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain, and to serve Committee on Veterans’ Affairs, Subcommittee on Eco- concurrently and without additional compensation as nomic Opportunity, hearing entitled ‘‘How to Improve Ambassador to Andorra, Richard Grenell, of California, to Access to GI Bill Approved Apprenticeship Programs and be Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Germany, Ed- How these Programs Benefit Veterans’’, 3 p.m., 334 Can- ward T. McMullen, Jr., of South Carolina, to be Ambas- non.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:57 Sep 27, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D26SE7.REC D26SEPT1 D1014 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST September 26, 2017

Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 10 a.m., Wednesday, September 27 3 p.m., Wednesday, September 27

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Wednesday: Senate will continue consider- Program for Wednesday: Consideration of measures ation of the motion to proceed to consideration of S. under suspension of the Rules. 1519, National Defense Authorization Act.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Esty, Elizabeth H., Conn., E1269 Perlmutter, Ed, Colo., E1267, E1268, E1269, E1269, Granger, Kay, Tex., E1271 E1270 Blackburn, Marsha, Tenn., E1268, E1270, E1271 Green, Gene, Tex., E1271 Shimkus, John, Ill., E1270 Blunt Rochester, Lisa, Del., E1270 Hoyer, Steny H., Md., E1270 Thompson, Mike, Calif., E1268 Brady, Robert A., Pa., E1268 Tiberi, Patrick J., Ohio, E1267 Kaptur, Marcy, Ohio, E1267 Comstock, Barbara, Va., E1269 Torres, Norma J., Calif., E1272 Lipinski, Daniel, Ill., E1271 Costello, Ryan A., Pa., E1267 Veasey, Marc A., Tex., E1271 Courtney, Joe, Conn., E1272 Lofgren, Zoe, Calif., E1272 Wittman, Robert J., Va., E1267, E1268

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