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

Vol. 164 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2018 No. 62 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was until word came out about the expose Congress: Why isn’t anyone doing any- called to order by the Speaker pro tem- on CBS, its stock was doing pretty thing about it? Where is the FAA? pore (Mr. BISHOP of Utah). well, too. Where is the DOT and the committees In order to reward investors while f of jurisdiction here in the House of still selling seats at rock-bottom tick- Representatives? I hear the Senators DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO et prices, however, Allegiant pushes are doing something about it. TEMPORE their aging, secondhand fleet of 99 out- Why have there been no hearings and The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- dated aircraft beyond their limits. But, so little response from the Federal fore the House the following commu- hey, apparently, in corporate America, Government? ‘‘60 Minutes’’ made a nication from the Speaker: profits are more important than peo- compelling case that the regulators are ple, even if carrying people safely is WASHINGTON, DC, not doing their jobs. Host Steve Kroft April 17, 2018. supposed to be your main concern. said: ‘‘Over the last 3 years, the FAA So far, the only thing to crash with I hereby appoint the Honorable ROB BISHOP has switched its priorities from ac- to act as Speaker pro tempore on this day. this airline is its high-flying stock tively enforcing safety rules with fines, PAUL D. RYAN, price, which is down 11 percent since warning letters, and sanctions, which Speaker of the House of Representatives. word of the CBS story first came out, become part of the public record’’—so f because ‘‘60 Minutes’’ documented inci- we would all know about the safety of dent after incident—more than 100 in a MORNING-HOUR DEBATE these airlines—‘‘to working quietly less than 2 years—of aborted takeoffs, with the airlines behind the scenes to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- unscheduled landings, smoke-filled fix the problems’’—yes, at the backs of ant to the order of the House of Janu- cabins, cabin-pressure loss, and other the American people that they are sup- emergency situations. ary 8, 2018, the Chair will now recog- posed to protect. A former prosecutor at the FAA with nize Members from lists submitted by This airline, Allegiant, with 3.5 times 30 years of experience says: ‘‘You the majority and minority leaders for as many serious emergency incidents know, if, God forbid, there is an acci- morning-hour debate. as any other airline, might be a special dent, I think there will be a lot of peo- The Chair will alternate recognition case or it might just be typical, but we ple saying, ‘Well, we knew. We knew between the parties. All time shall be just don’t know. And the American equally allocated between the parties, and we did nothing.’’’ Mr. Speaker, Allegiant Air is a trag- people just don’t know. and in no event shall debate continue If the FAA isn’t doing a good job of beyond 11:50 a.m. Each Member, other edy waiting to happen. And they really should know better, and we as a coun- making sure Allegiant Air is safe, what than the majority and minority leaders try should know better, because the else are we missing about the airlines? and the minority whip, shall be limited CEO of Allegiant is none other than We ought to demand that the experts to 5 minutes. one of the founders of ValuJet. inside and outside of Congress get the f Do you remember them? They were facts and all the people are account- able. ALLEGIANT AIR the cut-rate airline that was appar- ently cutting corners on safety to Now, I understand that the dirtiest The SPEAKER pro tempore. The boost their position with stockholders. word in the conservative dictionary is Chair recognizes the gentleman from But they aren’t flying anymore be- ‘‘regulation,’’ and, frankly, it is not Illinois (Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ) for 5 minutes. cause ValuJet flight 592, with 110 peo- clear that the downside in regulatory ´ Mr. GUTIERREZ. Mr. Speaker, the ple on board, plunged into the Ever- oversight happened exclusively or even CBS News program ‘‘60 Minutes’’ de- glades after taking off from Miami more rapidly since our current busi- voted more than half their show on International Airport 22 years ago. nessman and TV host President took Sunday to a 7-month investigation into What we learned after the fact was office; but I think it is clear that fol- Allegiant Air, a low-budget airline that the airline drove up profits, lowing the rules being transparent and based in Las Vegas. pushed its fleet to the edge, took extra being accountable in American indus- The segment was called ‘‘Allegiant freight in cargo holds to make extra try, especially the airline industry Air: The Budget Airline Flying Under money, and cut corners on the safety of where millions of lives are at stake the Radar.’’ According to CBS, Alle- its passengers. And you know what every day, ought to be a top priority. giant is one of the most profitable air- happened. People died. When I sit down to dinner with my lines in the U.S. and made a healthy We have seen this before, which leads family, I want to know the chicken and profit for 60 straight months. And up to the very important question for vegetables on my plate are safe to eat.

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 23:52 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.000 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3346 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 My car, my gadgets, and my flight Banquet. This wonderful event will knowing this man was the attorney for home all deserve rigorous scrutiny. I take place this Thursday, and this the President—and authorize the war- want to know that the water my grand- year’s festivities will be extra special rant and to know his job was on the son drinks is clean. because we will be celebrating the 50th line and his neck was on the line The American people are losing con- anniversary of the University of Miami showed great courage, something we fidence, Mr. Speaker, that the people Sports Hall of Fame. all in America should respect and hold who are supposed to be watching out I am a proud University of Miami up as an admirable quality in a man for us are really watching out for us Hurricane, where I earned my doc- who exhibits the best characteristics of when we eat, drink, breathe, travel. torate in education. I am married to our citizenry. There is a big drive in Congress to Dexter, a fellow UM Cane. My stepson Then Mr. Rosenstein, a learned attor- cut government budgets, cut red tape, and daughter-in-law, Dougie and Lind- ney who didn’t feel that attorney-cli- crusade against regulation. The other say, are graduates of University of ent privilege was being infringed upon, side demonizes regulation almost as Miami Law School, as is my step- sent the case to the Southern District much as the President demonizes im- daughter Katherine Lehtinen. So the of New York, where other lawyers who migrants. But I just want to make sure Lehtinen clan, we are real boosters of were trained took the case to a judge, that, when the Federal Government the University of Miami Hurricanes, who was also learned in the law, who and this Congress are cutting budgets, and we wish all the best to the guests said the warrant should issue. we are not cutting corners that allow and participants of the banquet. Attorney-client privilege is alive and airplanes with Americans on them, Congratulations to the University of is being dealt with in the proper fash- with anybody on them, with human Miami for its Sports Hall of Fame 50th ion in Judge Wood’s courtroom. She is beings on them, to fly out of the sky so Anniversary. properly seeing to it that it is re- that companies can make better prof- Go Canes. spected, but that information that is its. f not that of an attorney-client privilege The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- will be revealed to the American pub- ATTORNEY-CLIENT PRIVILEGE bers are reminded to refrain from en- lic. gaging in personalities toward the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The For some reason, a lot of people President. Chair recognizes the gentleman from today who normally are talking about f Tennessee (Mr. COHEN) for 5 minutes. the Second Amendment are talking Mr. COHEN. Mr. Speaker, on this about attorney-client privilege like it CONGRATULATING UM-NSU CARD day, as a lawyer and as a Congressman, is the biggest legal principle in our ON 25TH ANNIVERSARY I want to express my appreciation for country’s fabric. What is more impor- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the Department of Justice, the FBI, tant than anything—and attorney-cli- Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Mr. Mueller, Mr. Rosenstein, Mr. Wray, ent privilege is being respected—is the Florida (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN) for 5 min- and others. information that has been garnered utes. The attorneys in the Justice Depart- through that search warrant that could Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I ment are among the best in the coun- show the possibility of crimes being rise this morning to recognize the 25th try, and Mr. Mueller and Mr. Rosen- committed by the President of the anniversary of the University of stein are in that group. The FBI have United States of America. There is Miami-Nova Southeastern University the finest law enforcement people in nothing more important to be seen, Center for Autism and Related Disabil- our country, and Mr. Wray heads that and attorney-client privilege is nothing ities, known as UM-NSU CARD. office up. compared to that. Why people are con- On April 28, friends, families, Besides being outstanding jurists, cerned about that and not the informa- healthcare advocates, and community men of rectitude, and probity, what tion that they are trying to keep quiet leaders from throughout our area in else do Mr. Wray, Mr. Rosenstein, and astonishes me. south Florida will gather together to Mr. Mueller have in common? They are We need a transparent President. We celebrate this notable milestone at the all Republicans, and they have all been need a President who pays his taxes Tropical Nights Gala on beautiful Bis- attacked by our President. and reveals them to the American pub- cayne Bay. Our President said, when the warrant lic and who doesn’t try to squash the Since 1993, the outstanding staff and was issued on his attorney’s office for Justice Department, the FBI, and professionals at CARD have excelled at his materials, that that was an attack means of people of probity and rec- providing specialized services to indi- on our country. In my opinion, that titude and character. viduals living with autism and related statement and the attacks on our Jus- Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Rosenstein, disabilities. By working with a net- tice Department and FBI, and on Mr. Mr. Mueller, Mr. Wray, the Justice De- work of outreach centers, UM-NSU Rosenstein and Mr. Mueller and Mr. partment, and FBI officials. CARD is able to create lasting opportu- Wray, those were attacks on our coun- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- nities and growth for so many. try. bers are reminded to refrain from en- Currently, CARD assists over 11,000 When one undermines the Justice De- gaging in personalities toward the families in our south Florida commu- partment and the FBI and, basically, President. nity, offering them invaluable support, people working in the Federal Govern- f resources, and guidance. ment to protect us and see that our Mr. Speaker, I rise to congratulate laws are carried out in an appropriate FREE SPEECH FOR ME, BUT NOT all of the staff, the volunteers, the ad- manner and that the rule of law, which FOR THEE? vocates, and the family members who this country is respected for all around The SPEAKER pro tempore. The get so much out of the University of the world, is meted out in evenhanded Chair recognizes the gentleman from Miami-Nova Southeastern Center for fashion, that is an attack on the funda- Texas (Mr. POE) for 5 minutes. Autism and Related Disabilities on this mental principles of the United States Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Alex- proud 25th anniversary. I thank them of America. ander Hamilton was 21 years of age; all for helping those with autism, re- Mr. Speaker, I resent that sugges- Aaron Burr, 20 years of age; James lated disabilities, and spectrum dis- tion. The fact is Mr. Rosenstein showed Monroe, 18; James Madison, 25 years orders to achieve their full potential great bravery in seeing—as we say in old. These young Founding Fathers, and leave their own beautiful mark on jury charges, ‘‘going where truth dic- some of America’s most notable names, our beautiful world. tated and justice demanded’’—in seeing were college age when they stood CELEBRATING 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF that that warrant was issued. They did against an opposing British monarch UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SPORTS HALL OF FAME it on the basis of probable cause and in- and demanded life, liberty, and the pur- Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I formation that they had to have sur- suit of happiness. would like to congratulate all of the veillance of Mr. COHEN. They had to In fact, the right to freedom of organizers and supporters of the Uni- have probable cause to even have sur- speech was considered so important versity of Miami Sports Hall of Fame veillance. And then to go through— that James Madison, the author of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:52 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.002 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3347 Constitution, made it the First Amend- puses today to have dialogue with stu- friends, former Police Chief Peter ment in the Bill of Rights. However, it dents because he ruled controversial Carnes. seems today that some of America’s views are constitutionally protected. He gave as a Big Brother to a young youngest minds of this generation have Freedom of speech is one of the boy through the Big Brothers Big Sis- forgotten just what it is this great Na- things that made this country different ters Program of Cape Cod and the Is- tion stands for and what ideals it was from the rest of the world. lands, and that young boy now wants built on. We must remember that fact and re- to grow up and be a police officer just b 1015 ject the tendency to bruise the First like Sean. Amendment by stamping out speech He gave to the children he visited in A disturbing trend has begun crop- that is controversial. the schools as a police officer accom- ping up on some college campuses In the famous words of Evelyn Bea- panied most often by his partner and around the country. The ideals that trice Hall, who wrote under a pseu- canine friend, Nero. our Founding Fathers so painstakingly donym in the 1900s: ‘‘I disapprove of He gave to his friends and his second penned into life are at risk of dis- what you say, but I will defend to the family at the Yarmouth Police Depart- appearing from the sacred parchment death your right to say it.’’ ment where he is loved and missed of liberty. Freedom of speech is under I don’t see any university professors dearly. attack. The left has perpetrated the teaching this dedication to free speech. Sean gave the greatest love to his idea that freedom of speech only ap- What is most disturbing is that often it parents, Patrick and Denise; his broth- plies to them but not to opposing is the public universities that are re- er and sister; his family; and particu- views: free speech for me but not for sponsible for silencing speech that they larly to his wife, Dara, who shared in thee. don’t agree with. This is clearly a vio- the spirit of giving as she conducted Conservative thinkers are often lation of the philosophy of the First her work in the Cape Cod Foundation banned from some universities. If they Amendment. with helping over 250 charities. Sean are invited, students are allowed the George Washington said it best: ‘‘If and Dara were a fixture at every chari- disrupt the events. the freedom of speech is taken away, table event on Cape Cod. Mr. Speaker, since when does a war then dumb and silent we may be led Ultimately, he gave his life—the ulti- of words include physical violence like sheep to the slaughter.’’ mate sacrifice—to protect us and pro- against anyone who disagrees? Some America must always remain a free tect others from a dangerous and vio- universities and students claim that if and open public space where the mar- lent individual whom the Yarmouth speech is offensive, it must be banned; ketplace of ideas, even those we may Police Chief Frank Frederickson said and who are we going to let decide detest or disagree with, are always would have clearly taken another life what is offensive or hurtful? The lis- freely expressed. had Sean not intervened. tener? The elite academia? The govern- Mr. Speaker, I leave you with the Sean is a hero. He is one of us. He is ment? words of James Madison: ‘‘The ad- much more than that. He is someone This is a very dangerous philosophy vancement and diffusion of knowledge we aspire to be, a giver, whose love for that some of our universities are pro- is the only guardian of true liberty.’’ others will continue to inspire us. moting and students are accepting. The Our college youth of today should There was a vigil last Saturday in British censored speech critical of the heed the words of American youth of the town of Yarmouth, Massachusetts, King. That is one reason the free flow 1776. But the elite academia of our uni- where 1,000 people showed up to pay of diverse ideas is protected in our versity speech police may not allow tribute to Sean. Tomorrow he will be country. The Bolsheviks and Lenin en- controversial words—those words of laid to rest joined by several thousand forced censorship of ideas they op- Madison and Jefferson—to be taught on who will gather together to pay tribute posed. campus because it just might offend and share love with him. Lenin said, to paraphrase: We don’t them. God bless Officer Sean Gannon. May let our enemies have guns. Why should And that is just the way it is. he rest in peace. May his soul and spir- we let them have ideas that are cal- f it continue to live among us and in- culated to criticize the government? spire us. HONORING OFFICER SEAN GANNON Speech control by universities, pro- f fessors, students, or government is a The SPEAKER pro tempore. The violation of the 1776 movement. It Chair recognizes the gentleman from RUSSIA seems as if our very founding document Massachusetts (Mr. KEATING) for 5 min- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The is at risk of fading into the abyss of utes. Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from history. Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, so many Missouri (Mrs. HARTZLER) for 5 min- Have we forgotten the meaning of the people in this world are focused on: utes. First Amendment? The First Amend- What’s in it for me? Mrs. HARTZLER. Mr. Speaker, I rise ment protects all forms of speech, even Not Officer Sean Gannon. Sean was a today to shed light on a quiet war that those we don’t personally agree with. giver. His life was defined by his focus has plagued our Nation for years. It is Even those words that offend us per- on serving and helping others. not the type of warfare we typically sonally are protected. Sean was taken from us last Thurs- consider, but this war’s implications If our American public square or uni- day in an act of violence that shocked are just as grave. It is a war being versity becomes a place where only our sensibilities and broke all of our waged on our soil, in our communities, ideas that the speech police allow, then hearts. and exploiting discourse among friends, we have lost our way and have become In his early years, he gave to his family, and neighbors. It is a war in- nothing more than an echo chamber. community in New Bedford, his class- tended to divide our great Nation in How can political ideas be challenged mates at All Saints School, and then order to weaken our unity and our re- if people cannot be allowed the freedom his classmates at Bishop Stang High silience. to speak different opinions? In School in North Dartmouth. He gave to The tactics of this warfare are not al- Terminiello v. Chicago, Supreme Court his college mates as he prepared for his ways apparent, making it possible for Justice Douglas stated: ‘‘A function of lifetime goal of becoming a police offi- any citizen to become a casualty of free speech under our system of govern- cer at Westfield State and Mass Mari- this dangerous campaign against the ment is to invite dispute. It may in- time Academy. United States. The war I am referring deed best serve its high purpose when He gave to the communities in prepa- to is the disinformation war against it induces a condition of unrest, cre- ration of this at Westfield and Nan- Western democracies being waged by ates dissatisfaction with conditions as tucket working there as a police officer the Russian Federation. they are, or even stirs people to and began his real career at Stonehill Russia’s disinformation campaign anger.’’ College, working to support and help against the United States started be- I guess Justice Douglas would not be students there, keeping them safe, and fore the 2016 Presidential election. In allowed on some of our university cam- working with one of his mentors and 2013, the Chief of Staff of the Armed

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:52 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.004 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3348 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 Forces of Russia stated: ‘‘The very Instead of placing blame on each married on June 28, 1953, and she re- rules of war have changed. The role of other and further polarizing our Na- mained his lifelong companion for 64 nonmilitary means of achieving polit- tion, we should turn toward each other years. ical and strategic goals has grown, and, to develop a defense strategy to By the mid-1960s, Dr. Reese had re- in many cases, they have exceeded the counter Russia’s propaganda machine. turned to teach in Selma, Alabama, power of force of weapons in their ef- Russia is instigating fights on both where he became the president of the fectiveness. The focus of applied meth- sides of the aisle. They do not care Dallas County Voters League and ods of conflict has altered in the direc- about American political parties, but president of the Selma Teachers Asso- tion of the broad use of political, eco- rather the demise of Western demo- ciation. He used both leadership posi- nomic, informational, humanitarian, cratic institutions. It is time that we tions to actively educate Blacks in and other nonmilitary measures—ap- stop Russia from infecting our family Selma about the right to vote. With plied in coordination with the protest with their disinformation virus. courage and tenacity, Dr. Reese led the potential of the population.’’ I call on all Americans to judge in- first-ever teachers march to the Selma Last month, General Philip flammatory posts with a wary eye. We Dallas County Courthouse in which Breedlove testified before the House need to quit being naive, allowing our- over 100 Black teachers demanded the Armed Services Committee stating: selves to become a pawn of those who right to vote. He challenged his fellow ‘‘Russia sees the West, and in par- want our undoing. teachers to exercise their right of citi- ticular, a unified West, as an adver- The internet is now a battlefield. It zenship by saying: ‘‘How can we teach sary. Waging a conventional war is critical that we consider the source American civics if we ourselves cannot against the West would be unfavorable of all information we receive. That in- vote?’’ to Russia. As such, it has used hybrid formation could be from a Russian bot As the president of the Dallas County warfare to break up Western unity.’’ in St. Petersburg. It is time to stand Voters League, he invited Dr. King to He went on to say: ‘‘Exploiting divi- united, talk to each other, and work Selma to support their local efforts. sions in U.S. society and promoting a together to solve the challenges of our With the help of Dr. King and SCLC, ‘culture war’ is one key element of times. Dr. Reese organized a voting rights march on March 7, 1965, a day that will Moscow’s efforts to weaken the West.’’ f In 2015, Russia’s disinformation cam- live in infamy as Bloody Sunday. Dur- paign against the United States im- HONORING THE LIFE OF REV. DR. ing the march, protesters were brutally pacted my home State of Missouri. Re- FREDERICK DOUGLAS REESE beaten and sprayed with tear gas sim- search conducted by U.S. Air Force The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ply for speaking out for their right to Lieutenant Colonel Jared Pier found Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from vote. The sacrifices made that day by foot that the same Russian trolls involved Alabama (Ms. SEWELL) for 5 minutes. soldiers like Dr. Reese were captured in the 2016 Presidential election inter- Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speak- on national outlets and led to the rise jected themselves in the 2015 protests er, today I rise to honor a mentor, a of so many Americans who came to at the University of Missouri with the fellow Selma, Alabama, native, voting Alabama to support their efforts. The goal of inciting further unrest and rights activist, and an American hero, Selma to Montgomery marches which spreading discord and fear. The Rus- Rev. Dr. Frederick Douglas Reese, who Dr. Reese set in motion led to the pas- sian account @fanfan1911 tweeted: passed away on April 5, 2018, at the age sage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. ‘‘The cops are marching with the KKK. of 88. Dr. Reese is best known for the While many minority Americans con- They beat up my little brother. Watch pivotal role he played in the Selma to tinue to face barriers to the polls out.’’ Montgomery march that led to the pas- The tweet was then retweeted by today, our progress as a nation is un- sage of the Voting Rights Act of 1965. mistakable. We have Dr. Reese to Twitter bots and hundreds of real Twit- It was Dr. Reese, as president of the ter users who fell victim to the hoax. thank for that progress. Dallas County Voters League, who in- On a personal note, I know that I Lieutenant Colonel Pier’s research vited Dr. King and the Southern Chris- would not be here today as Alabama’s found that this same Twitter account tian Leadership Conference to Selma first Black Congresswoman were it not later changed its tweets to all German to organize and support their local vot- for the work of Dr. Reese and so many and spread rumors about Syrian refu- ing rights campaign. As a longtime ed- foot soldiers who led the way, who gees provoking unrest in Germany dur- ucator, pastor, and civil rights activist, looked our democracy in the eye and ing the height of the refugee crisis. In Dr. Reese’s life and legacy stands as a made us hold up to those ideals. It was 2016, the account switched back to testament to the power of one man’s my greatest honor as a Member of Con- English and began tweeting about the ability to change the world. gress to present to my fellow Selma na- 2016 Presidential election. Dr. Reese was born in Selma, Ala- tive Dr. Reese the Congressional Gold Russia’s interference in the 2016 Pres- bama, on November 28, 1929, the only Medal for his work in the voting rights idential election by spreading son of a strong, matriarchal family led movement on the occasion of the 50th disinformation on social media is trou- by his mother, Ellie R. Reese, and that anniversary of the Selma to Mont- bling, and it showcases Russia’s suc- included his older sister siblings, Doris gomery march. cess in weaponizing the internet. Rus- Reese and Annie Ratliff. His strong Dr. Reese and others helped to sia has exploited political divisions educational and spiritual home envi- change the course of American history with the intention to cause individuals ronment, coupled with the Christian and open the doors of opportunities for to question the legitimacy of our de- education training he received, was the African Americans all across this Na- mocracy. That is Russia’s ultimate solid foundation of his success. tion. We shall never forget the sac- goal, not to sway the outcome of elec- An outstanding student, Dr. Reese rifices that they made to our country. tions, but to call into question the very graduated from Alabama State Univer- Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the Sev- foundations that make our democracy sity and Livingston University with a enth Congressional District of Ala- strong by provoking mistrust and in- degree in mathematics and continued bama; a great, grateful nation; and the stability into democratic institutions. his education at the University of Ala- State of Alabama, I ask my colleagues As Americans, we must wake up and bama, Southern University, and Au- to join me in celebrating the life and band together to fight against Russia’s burn University before receiving his contributions of Reverend Dr. Fred- tactics. In Missouri and around the doctorate of divinity from Selma Uni- erick Douglas Reese. country, we have our own interfamily versity. Dr. Reese was an American hero, a squabbles. Brothers and sisters may national treasure, a beloved Selma na- have arguments, but the minute the b 1030 tive whose life’s fight for voting rights neighborhood kid picks on one of us, Dr. Reese’s teaching career began in will forever change the fabric of Amer- we defend each other. It is time that Wilcox County, Alabama, where he ican history. May we all recommit our- we face the reality that Russia is ex- taught science for 9 years and, most selves to the cause he fought for by ploiting our American family disagree- significantly, met his future bride, voting in every election: local, State, ments and making them far worse. Alline, a fellow teacher. The two were and Federal.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:52 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.006 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3349 HONORING THE CIVIL AIR PATROL Civil Air Patrol Cadet Advisory Coun- able agriculture. It effectively elimi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The cil for its incredible commitment to nates funding for farmers markets, Chair recognizes the gentleman from our youth. I wish them the best in ad- value-added producer grants, and cost- Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON) for 5 vance of the annual conference later sharing programs for organic certifi- minutes. this week, and I look forward to join- cation by failing to reauthorize manda- Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. ing them at that celebration as well. tory funding for these programs. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of f Mr. Speaker, I spent the better part of 21⁄2 years traveling Oregon after the the Civil Air Patrol and the contribu- DRAFT FARM BILL tions this civilian auxiliary makes to last farm bill asking people what they our great nation. The Civil Air Patrol The SPEAKER pro tempore. The wanted. And I will tell you, people in supports America’s communities with Chair recognizes the gentleman from Oregon—farmers and ranchers, people emergency response; diverse aviation Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER) for 5 min- who eat, sports people, people who are and ground services; youth develop- utes. involved with food production and nu- ment; and promotion of air, space, and Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, trition—this is not the approach that cyber power. this week, the House Committee on Ag- people in our community want, nor, The Civil Air Patrol consists of 1,445 riculture will be marking up the most frankly, by all available evidence, the squadrons and approximately 58,000 important bill that almost no one pays vast majority of farmers and ranchers. volunteer youth and adult members na- attention to, rolled out with very little They want to see reforms. They want tionwide. It is congressionally char- fanfare. And actually, we can kind of to have a crop insurance program that tered and operates as a nonprofit orga- understand why it has been sort of isn’t wasteful support for large com- modity producers, but actually is nization. It is made up of 8 geographic played down a little bit. The draft farm available for people who grow food, regions, consisting of 52 wings through- bill makes it more difficult to get specialty crops for nursery, and the out the 50 States, Puerto Rico, and the SNAP benefits, while weakening the wine industry. It ought to be helping District of Columbia. meager limits for farm subsidies and Mr. Speaker, on Saturday evening, I while cutting investments in conserva- beginning farmers and ranchers get a had the honor of speaking at the Penn- tion and innovative programs which toehold. It ought to deal with the ef- sylvania Wing Civil Air Patrol’s 2018 people care deeply about. forts to cut down food waste, to pro- Conference in Grantville, Pennsyl- The draft bill cuts billions from those vide protection for animal welfare. Mr. Speaker, the draft proposal that vania. More than 400 Civil Air Patrol SNAP benefits. It creates burdensome has been released is a missed oppor- members and cadets throughout the work requirements for caretakers of tunity, a missed opportunity for the Commonwealth will gather there this children over 6 and people between the ages of 50 and 59. Under this provision, committee. But I am hopeful that Con- weekend to celebrate this outstanding gress, as this process works out, will civilian auxiliary. Colonel Gary L. people would have to find work or at- tend job training for at least 20 hours step up and do its part to make it bet- Fleming is the wing commander. ter, to focus on people who eat; people Mr. Speaker, this year, the Civil Air per week. The provisions won’t do any- who care about clean air, clean water; Patrol is celebrating its 70-year asso- thing at all to address poverty. Data people who want to protect animal wel- ciation with the U.S. Air Force. Con- from the Bureau of Labor Statistics fare; people who want to have a vi- gress passed a law on May 26, 1948, des- shows that, even for those in the gen- eral population, securing a job within 3 brant, thriving local food scene; and to ignating the Civil Air Patrol as the of- be able to provide food security for peo- ficial Air Force auxiliary. The Civil Air months is virtually unattainable. There will be a spirited debate about ple who are at risk. Patrol cadet program has been in exist- Mr. Speaker, we can do better. I whether we ought to reduce nutrition ence for more than 75 years. Cadet pro- strongly urge my colleagues to take a for low-income people, but there are a grams throughout the country are hard look at this proposal and think whole range of other items that need to making incredible impacts. Cadet pro- about what a farm bill would look like have attention. grams attract more than 25,000 mem- for their community. I think they will The commodities programs that bers, ages 12 through 20. find this bill falls far, far short. The program educates youth in four channel 94 percent of the subsidies in main program areas: leadership, aero- the farm bill to people who grow six f space, fitness, and character develop- commodities. This bill will exempt RECOGNIZING THE MIRACLE ment. It enriches the school cur- most corporate farms from payment LEAGUE OF NORTHAMPTON riculum through after-school pro- limits and make it easier for large ag- TOWNSHIP grams. Programs offer orientation riculture entities to call themselves The SPEAKER pro tempore. The flights in powered and glider aircraft, family farms and get even more sub- Chair recognizes the gentleman from as well as flight training scholarships. sidies. It gets rid of payment limits for Pennsylvania (Mr. FITZPATRICK) for 5 Activities and competitions are avail- marketing loan gains and loan defi- minutes. able for cadets at local, State, re- ciency payments and exempts partner- Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I gional, and national levels. Opportuni- ships, joint ventures, LLCs, and Sub- rise today to recognize an organization ties for community development are chapter S corporations from means in my district that strives to empower available through the color guard and testing, opening the loopholes wider. individuals with special needs as well drill team, as well as emergency serv- In the area of conservation, which as their families. ices missions. matters deeply to Americans across The Miracle League of Northampton The Civil Air Patrol makes up about the country and makes a big difference Township fosters both social and edu- 10 percent of each of the U.S. Air Force to farmers and ranchers in Oregon, this cational growth through sports and Academy’s classes. The cadets who bill gets rid of the Conservation Stew- recreation. Along with buddy programs have earned the General Billy Mitchell ardship Program, one of the largest and coaching opportunities, Miracle Award enlist in the Air Force, U.S. conservation programs in the farm bill. League offers those with special needs Army, and U.S. Coast Guard at higher It cuts the conservation title by $1 bil- the ability to participate in baseball, pay grades. lion over 10 years and cuts funding for basketball, bowling, and soccer Mr. Speaker, the cadet program also the working lands program by nearly leagues. offers college scholarships in several $5 billion over 10 years, and it weakens On May 5, this organization will be different disciplines, as well as an the Endangered Species Act by allow- holding its first annual charity wiffle international air cadet exchange pro- ing pesticides to be approved without ball tournament. The Miracle League gram. considering the impact on endangered of Northampton Township Wiffle Ball The Civil Air Patrol cadet program species. Classic will take place at Miracle truly encourages our youth to reach Mr. Speaker, one of the most impor- League Fields in Churchville, and will great heights. They have been building tant areas that needs our attention feature a single elimination bracket leaders for more than 75 years, and I deals with local food and regional in- along with awards for best team name am so proud of the Pennsylvania Wing frastructure to promote local sustain- and best uniforms.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:52 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.008 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3350 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 I would like to recognize president the people she cared so much about and dairy producers expand to foreign mar- Brian Damiani and vice president Allan the city she loved. kets so we can compete. Corless, along with the executive direc- She was a relentless warrior for the Further, it also includes research and tors, board members, and volunteers, people she represented. She brought development of organic farming that for the countless hours they put in to the city of Newburgh through an eco- continues to be very, very important, improve the lives of those in Bucks nomic crisis and presided over a real and it encourages a comprehensive ap- County. revitalization throughout that city. proach to ensuring the health and secu- RECOGNIZING WARWICK TOWNSHIP FOR ITS RANK Our thoughts are with the Kennedy rity of our livestock. But we could do AS ONE OF PENNSYLVANIA’S SAFEST CITIES family as well, and, of course, the en- more in all of these areas. Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, we tire Newburgh community that will There are also parts of this farm bill have no higher priority than working miss her leadership. that, for me, are problematic. As writ- to ensure the safety of the commu- The public servants we lost this ten, the dairy provisions create an un- nities we represent. Working with law weekend were truly special people. even playing field that protects some, enforcement and local officials is es- They dedicated their lives to the peo- while leaving others exposed, sowing a sential to meeting this responsibility. I ple they served, and the best way for us regional divide within the dairy indus- am proud to recognize Warwick Town- to honor their legacy is to finish their try. Instead, we should raise the thresh- ship in Bucks County, Pennsylvania, work, to look out for the communities old for catastrophic coverage under the for being ranked as one of our State’s they represented, and to make sure dairy safety net so we can respond safest cities. they stay the wonderful places to live, more quickly for all dairy producers In identifying Pennsylvania’s safest work, and raise a family that they are. when milk markets plummet. The Cali- cities, the statistics were compiled Frank and Judy, thank you for all fornia dairy industry has hit hard from the FBI Uniform Crime Report. you have done for us. I hope everyone in the Hudson Valley joins me in say- times in recent years. This information indicated that War- Lastly, there are components of this ing a prayer in remembrance of their wick Township was the 15th safest city farm bill that I strongly oppose, as do service, and, of course, we will see in the State of Pennsylvania. I would countless other organizations, people them; we will see them whenever we like to thank Judith Algeo, chair- in the San Joaquin Valley and across see the government doing something woman of the Warwick Township Board the country. One of these proposals right. We will see them when we see of Supervisors, and Police Chief Mark makes changes to the Supplemental the city of Newburgh continue to Goldberg for their hard work in keep- Nutrition Assistance Program, other- thrive. We will see them when we see ing our district a phenomenal place to wise known as SNAP, that will dev- the State government improving our live, work, and raise a family. I look astate parts of the food program that environment—looking out for working forward to continuing our mission to- are working well. gether. families, fighting for people without a SNAP education and training pro- f voice. That is where we will see their grams are designed to help people and legacy, when we continue the work MEMORIALIZING THE LIVES OF help recipients develop skills so ulti- they fought so nobly and so long to ad- mately they become self-reliant. I am a FRANK SKARTADOS AND JUDY vance. KENNEDY strong supporter of SNAP education Rest in peace. and training programs. Although some The SPEAKER pro tempore. The f of our SNAP education and training Chair recognizes the gentleman from CONCERNS ABOUT AMERICA’S programs are yielding great results, we New York (Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALO- FOOD BILL have a pilot project in Fresno County NEY) for 5 minutes. called the Fresno Bridge Academy that Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The has expanded, and we now, as a result New York. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Chair recognizes the gentleman from of the last farm bill, have 10 pilot memorialize two beloved elected offi- California (Mr. COSTA) for 5 minutes. projects around the country. In 2019, cials from the Hudson Valley who Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today they are supposed to report back to the passed away this weekend: Assembly- to raise concerns about the farm bill Congress to say what works and what man Frank Skartados and Newburgh that we will consider in the House Ag- doesn’t work. mayor, Judy Kennedy. riculture Committee tomorrow. That is the way we should be doing First, Assemblyman Frank In any legislation, there are parts of this so that we can get people off of as- Skartados represented a number of it that you support and there are areas sistance, make them self-sufficient. We communities up and down the Hudson that are problematic and there are ti- all agree that able-bodied people Valley. He lost a battle with cancer tles that you may oppose. That is part should be working. Yet, this farm bill early Sunday morning. Even though he of legislation. Some of these areas, of makes enrollment in the SNAP edu- was struggling through his sickness, course, are works in progress. That is cation and training program manda- Frank still fought relentlessly for his part of legislation as well. The farm tory, and in many cases, without giv- neighbors up in Albany. bill is no exception. ing them the necessary tools to get There are parts of this proposal that b 1045 real jobs that exist. are a continuation of good things that We have been warned that such a Frank was an immigrant from we have done in previous farm bills strain on burgeoning programs may Greece, grew up on a small Greek is- that have worked. This version of the very well collapse, costing billions of land, came to America as a teenager, farm bill supports programs that are dollars, and creating a new Federal bu- learned English, paid his way through critical to specialty crops in the San reaucracy. In addition, this proposal school, and built a successful business. Joaquin Valley and across California would systematically prevent people He went on to represent the people of and the Nation. Specialty crops are from getting food assistance that they the Hudson Valley and the State As- special. They are fresh fruits and vege- badly need, including our disabled, our sembly for nearly a decade. Now, if tables that serve as the foundation of a seniors, and our veterans. Twenty-five that is not the American Dream, I healthy diet. California grows half of percent of my constituents are on don’t know what is. My heart goes out the Nation’s specialty crops. SNAP and require food assistance. to the Skartados family and to every- This bill also provides support for re- This program is vital to the health of one else grieving his loss. We will miss search and risk management tools that our communities, both in rural and Frank sorely. are necessary. That includes contin- urban areas in every State in the Na- I would also like to memorialize uous support for the Environmental tion. The farm bill is America’s food Judy Kennedy, the mayor of Newburgh, Quality Incentives Program, a program bill. It is about our national security. New York. Judy and I shared a love for that encourages farmers to be good It is very important. It should not the city of Newburgh. Judy also passed stewards of our environment. It also serve some well and abandon others. away from cancer this weekend. She has proposals that support programs Although this proposal does include fought through her sickness to serve that help our farmers, ranchers, and some good provisions, it fails to serve

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:52 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.009 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3351 important parts of our community, and ceedings and announces to the House program and 265,000 children off of free it builds a bigger and more intense di- his approval thereof. school meals. vide between regions and groups in our Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- Not a single one of them told us to country. Our Nation’s food policy nal stands approved. add hurdles for families with heating should not be something that further f and cooling costs, and not a single one divides us. This part of the House farm suggested we kick vulnerable adults off bill proposal, I think, is bad policy. It PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE of benefits when they can’t find work. will not succeed legislatively, nor can The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman Yet that is exactly what this bill it be successfully implemented. from Massachusetts (Mr. MCGOVERN) does. The reckless Republican pro- The United States Senate is writing come forward and lead the House in the posals in this bill cut SNAP benefits by a bipartisan farm bill, and that is what Pledge of Allegiance. over $20 billion, reducing or elimi- we should be doing in the House. As a Mr. MCGOVERN led the Pledge of Al- nating benefits for 2 million kids, vet- matter of fact, the farm bill, for over 40 legiance as follows: erans, working families, and other vul- years, has been one of the most bipar- I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the nerable adults. tisan things that we do in Congress. United States of America, and to the Repub- Make no mistake, this bill will make I call upon my colleagues to work to- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, hunger worse in our country. I plead gether, in a bipartisan fashion, to nego- indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. with the Republican leadership of this tiate these differences, one that serves f House: Stop beating up on poor people. the widest range of Americans so that f we can produce enduring good public ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER policy decisions that serve to protect The SPEAKER. The Chair will enter- MARKING TAX DAY 2018 the safety net for all Americans, pro- tain up to 15 requests for 1-minute (Mr. GIANFORTE asked and was mote American farmers, ranchers, and speeches on each side of the aisle. given permission to address the House dairy people so that we can not only f for 1 minute and to revise and extend feed the Nation but compete in foreign his remarks.) markets. CONGRATULATIONS MURPHYS Mr. GIANFORTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise We can do better. We should do bet- BORO MIDDLE SCHOOL GIRLS today to mark tax day 2018. ter. VOLLEYBALL TEAM I do not make it a habit of cele- brating tax day, but this year is dif- f (Mr. BOST asked and was given per- mission to address the House for 1 ferent. Tax day 2018 is the last time the RECESS minute and to revise and extend his re- American people will have to file their The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- marks.) taxes under a complex, outdated Tax ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, today I Code. declares the House in recess until noon proudly honor the Murphysboro Middle The new Tax Code lowers the tax rate today. School Blue Devils Girls volleyball for every Montanan. The reduced rates Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 52 team for winning the Class L State are creating larger paychecks. A teach- minutes a.m.), the House stood in re- Championship for the second straight er in Billings told me her take-home cess. year. pay has gone up $1,500 a year. The new Tax Code provides relief to f Along the way, the team also cap- Montana families by doubling the child tured their eighth consecutive Junior b 1200 tax credit. Parents will have more Southwest Egyptian Conference title. money to buy their children clothes, AFTER RECESS That win was also a career milestone diapers, and food. The recess having expired, the House for Coach Mike Layne. It marked the Today, I am celebrating tax day 2018 was called to order by the Speaker at 1,000th combined career win while because we are putting that old noon. coaching volleyball for Murphysboro antigrowth Tax Code out to pasture. In Community Unit School District at f its place is a new, simpler Tax Code both the middle school and high school PRAYER that cuts rates for all Montanans, levels. helps families, and is growing our econ- The Chaplain, the Reverend Patrick I extend a heartfelt congratulations omy, leading to more jobs and higher J. Conroy, offered the following prayer: to the players, coaching staff, school Eternal God, we give You thanks for wages. officials, family, and friends who sup- giving us another day. Lead us in this ported these young ladies on their in- f day in Your ways, that our Nation credible journey. Southern Illinois is ADHERE TO THE RULE OF LAW might be guided along the roads of proud of you. peace, justice, and goodwill. (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was Grant strength and wisdom to our Go, Blue Devils. given permission to address the House Speaker and the Members of both this f for 1 minute.) Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, it assembly and the Senate, to our Presi- REJECT THE REPUBLICAN FARM is my task this morning to encourage dent and his Cabinet, and to our Su- BILL preme Court—as well as to us all, that my colleagues to adhere to the rule of (Mr. MCGOVERN asked and was all of our institutions and all of our law. given permission to address the House communities fulfill the noble promises In keeping with that, my colleagues for 1 minute and to revise and extend of our representative form of self-gov- on the Judiciary Committee—Mr. NAD- his remarks.) ernment. LER, the ranking member, myself, and Grant us the courage to become Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, to- Mr. COHEN—introduced H.R. 5476, the whom You have called us to be—our morrow the House Agriculture Com- Special Counsel Independence and In- better selves—so that the United mittee will mark up the Republican tegrity Act, to protect the work of Spe- States might continue to be a nation farm bill. This incredibly partisan pro- cial Counsel Mueller and to allow his worthy of emulation. posal was drafted in secret. Almost work to proceed. Bless us this day and every day, and nothing in the bill reflects the 23 hear- In the recent days, Mr. Mueller’s may all that is done within the peo- ings our committee held on SNAP. prosecutors found information that ple’s House be for Your greater honor We heard from 90 experts, and not a generated questions about criminal ac- and glory. single one of them, liberal or conserv- tivity. No prosecutor can ignore that Amen. ative, suggested eliminating State kind of evidence. He referred it first to f flexibility through broad-based cat- the Deputy Attorney General, Mr. egorical eligibility and worsening the Rosenstein, to approve his potential re- THE JOURNAL benefit cliff. ferral of that information, and he did The SPEAKER. The Chair has exam- Not a single one of them said to us: approve it. It was referred to the ined the Journal of the last day’s pro- Kick 400,000 working families out of the Southern District of New York.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:55 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.011 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3352 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 We now come to find out that the I say, these are not just numbers on a So let’s get this straight. The Fed- President’s attorney has been inves- page; these are people who are in need. eral Government borrows almost $2 tigated for a long period of time. We At the same time, Republicans want trillion from our children and our found out a surprise: one of his clients to expand the ill-targeted commodity grandchildren so that we can funnel was Sean Hannity, who was already programs. They will maintain crop in- hundreds of billions of dollars to the being investigated. surance subsidies that have no eligi- wealthiest Americans. Is that what we This is an insurance that the Presi- bility requirements or limits. should be doing here? dent will not fire the special counsel This farm bill is not reform; it is hy- I think not. and allow his work to continue. That is pocrisy. No one in this Chamber goes f an Article I responsibility, a constitu- hungry. They have three squares or SYRIAN CHEMICAL ATTACKS tional responsibility, and I encourage more. I urge my colleagues to defend my colleagues to join us to provide the Food Stamp program and oppose (Mr. LAHOOD asked and was given that insurance. this farm bill. permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his re- f f marks.) SAVE A MAJESTIC SHIP FROM MARKET DATA PROTECTION Mr. LAHOOD. Mr. Speaker, over the SINKING INTO THE DEPTHS OF (Mr. DAVIDSON asked and was given weekend, President Trump and our HISTORY permission to address the House for 1 British and French allies made it (Mr. POE of Texas asked and was minute and to revise and extend his re- known that the heinous actions of dic- given permission to address the House marks.) tator Bashar al-Assad will not be toler- Mr. DAVIDSON. Mr. Speaker, the for 1 minute and to revise and extend ated. Consolidated Audit Trail stands as the his remarks.) Over the past 3 years, Assad, aided by Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the largest financial database in the world Iran and Russia, has continued to carry first board of her keel landed on the and ranks second in size only to the out chemical warfare against his own NSA’s database. dockyard with a loud thump. people. Not only is this in direct viola- The value of the sensitive informa- It was 107 years ago today, April 17, tion of Syria’s previous agreement to tion housed within this database in- 1911. One year later, she sailed smooth- destroy their chemical weapons stock- cludes Social Security numbers, broker ly into Newport News, Virginia, har- pile, but it also violates every tenet of numbers, account numbers. In fact, it bor, christened the USS Texas, BB–35. basic human decency and violates our is comparable to nine times the wealth Geneva Conventions standards. She was commissioned and saw imme- that is in Fort Knox—far more sen- diate action in World War I. The Texas Through pictures and images, the sitive than the Equifax data, whose world quickly saw the aftermath of made numerous voyages to the North breach affects 143 million Americans. Sea, serving the country and our State Assad’s most recent attack on his own Despite the enormity of wealth with- people: scores of people dead or dying of Texas. in this database, the unfortunate re- while foaming at the mouth, including Upon formal entry into World War II, ality is that its cybersecurity is not women and innocent children. the battleship Texas escorted war con- yet adequate. The Government Ac- voys across the Atlantic, was the flag- By aiding Assad’s murder of his own countability Office report found the people and then working to prevent a ship on D-day, and saw action in the SEC’s systems ‘‘at unnecessary risk of response by the United Nations, Russia Pacific as well. She was decommis- compromise.’’ The CAT operator re- and Iran deserve equal blame and scru- sioned in 1948. cently delayed the issuing of technical Texas schoolchildren saved their tiny when it comes to these attacks. specifications, which means that indus- Mr. Speaker, I urge the administra- nickels to bring the ship home to try will have just 1 month to transmit tion to follow through with the sanc- Texas. She is now moored in La Porte, all of this market data. Texas. But now after serving our great Mr. Speaker, I introduced the Market tions on Russian companies that was Nation, Texas is in danger of being Data Protection Act, which passed this announced by Ambassador Nikki Haley scrapped for parts, a fate unfitting for House with unanimous support, to and to continue sending a clear mes- the majestic ship that served our coun- guarantee the private information of sage that these horrific criminal ac- try. hundreds of millions of Americans tions by the dictator, Assad, will not To prevent this, the State of Texas transmits securely and without risk. be tolerated. and Congress must band together and Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my col- f work to save the battleship Texas from leagues in the Senate to send this bill BRING THE DREAM ACT TO THE sinking into the depths of history. to the President’s desk. FLOOR And that is just the way it is. f (Mr. ESPAILLAT asked and was f TAX BILL BENEFITS THE given permission to address the House OPPOSE THE FARM BILL WEALTHY for 1 minute and to revise and extend (Ms. DELAURO asked and was given (Mr. KILDEE asked and was given his remarks.) permission to address the House for 1 permission to address the House for 1 Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, I rise minute and to revise and extend her re- minute.) today to urge Speaker RYAN do the fol- marks.) Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, today is lowing: before he retires, do the right Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, I rise in tax day, the day that hardworking thing and bring the Dream Act to the strong opposition to the recently re- Americans finish preparing their taxes; floor. leased farm bill for 2018. and it is already clear, looking at the Already 46 of his Republican col- Congressional Republicans and the new tax bill, that it will overwhelm- leagues and more than 170 Democrats— Trump administration want to unravel ingly benefit CEOs, shareholders, and that is 218 bipartisan supporters—have, the social safety net, and according to the wealthiest Americans. as of today, cosponsored H. Res. 774. the Center on Budget and Policy Prior- Since the passage of this Republican This will force debate on competing ities, this farm bill cuts total Supple- tax bill, corporations have already fun- DACA bills in the House and use a pro- mental Nutrition Assistance Program neled $250 billion to CEOs and share- cedure known as Queen of the Hill. benefits—that is the Food Stamp pro- holders through stock buybacks, This will include four amendments, in- gram—by more than $23 billion. money that is not going to workers. cluding Representative ROYBAL- Its stricter work requirements could Stock buybacks overwhelmingly ben- ALLARD’s clean Dream Act and an affect 5 million Americans who receive efit the wealthiest Americans and cor- amendment, H.R. 4796, the USA Act. food stamps in this country—children, porate executives. In fact, the richest Mr. Speaker, this will force a debate on seniors, the disabled, and, yes, vet- 10 percent of American households hold this issue. erans—even though most recipients 84 percent of stocks. The Dreamers have the support of who can work already do. The CBO just released information the American people and Members of All told, 2 million would lose some or showing that this tax bill will increase Congress. Bring the Dream Act to the all of their benefits. To my colleagues the deficit by $1.9 trillion. floor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:37 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.013 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3353 b 1215 Mr. Speaker, Lottie was an extraor- ment thereto, to final passage without inter- dinary friend of mine. She helped me at vening motion except: (1) one hour of debate CELEBRATING TAX REFORM ON equally divided and controlled by the chair TAX DAY every stage of my career, never waver- ing, never faltering. On good days and and ranking minority member of the Com- mittee on Ways and Means; and (2) one mo- (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania bad days, I knew Lottie would be there asked and was given permission to ad- tion to recommit with or without instruc- for me, as she was for so many of us. tions. dress the House for 1 minute and to re- Her advice, wisdom, humor, and vast The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. DA- vise and extend his remarks.) knowledge of life will be sorely missed. Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. VIDSON). The gentleman from Alabama Mr. Speaker, today is tax day. Typi- f is recognized for 1 hour. cally, Americans dread this day—the THE REPUBLICAN TAX SCAM Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, for the deadline for filing Federal income tax purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- returns—thanks to a cumbersome, (Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia asked and tomary 30 minutes to the gentleman complex, and confusing Tax Code. was given permission to address the from Florida (Mr. HASTINGS), pending But fear not. Thanks to the Tax Cuts House for 1 minute and to revise and which I yield myself such time as I and Jobs Act, this is the last time extend his remarks.) may consume. During consideration of Americans will file under the old sys- Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speak- this resolution, all time yielded is for tem. er, as the corporations, the wealthy, the purpose of debate only. and the well-connected enjoy lavish tax Next year, taxpayers will be able to GENERAL LEAVE cuts, while retaining the ability to keep more of their hard-earned dollars. Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I ask avoid paying any taxes whatsoever be- Approximately two-thirds of all house- unanimous consent that all Members cause of the many tax loopholes still in holds will see a lower marginal income have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- the Tax Code, millions of low- and mid- tax rate in 2018, according to a recent tend their remarks. dle-income Americans work diligently analysis by the Tax Policy Center. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there to complete their tax returns today. Thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs objection to the request of the gen- The Republican tax scam has made Act, American families can look for- tleman from Alabama? ward to lower individual tax rates; a the rich even richer, while economic There was no objection. nearly double standard deduction, from inequality in America has gotten a Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, House Res- $6,500 to $12,000 for individuals, and whole lot worse. Sadly, most Ameri- olution 830 provides for consideration from $13,000 to $24,000 for married cou- cans say they have seen no change in of H.R. 5192, the Protecting Children ples; and a doubled child tax credit in- their withholding taxes. From Identity Theft Act. The resolu- crease from $1,000 to $2,000 per child. While the wealthy are reaping mas- tion calls for a closed rule, as no Mr. Speaker, these are just some of sive windfalls from the giveaways in amendments to the bill were sub- the benefits. The average American the GOP tax scam, the nonpartisan mitted. should be able to file their taxes with- Congressional Budget Office estimates Mr. Speaker, this bipartisan legisla- out an army of accountants. I look for- that this tax scam will cause the an- tion is designed to reduce identity ward to next year when the majority of nual deficit to soar to over $1 trillion fraud by allowing financial institutions American families will see a much in 2020, and an additional $3.4 trillion to verify the accuracy of a name, So- easier tax process. will be added to the national debt over cial Security number, and date of birth It is pro-growth, pro-family tax re- the next 10 years. before passing that information to form; fair and simple. Ending deficit spending and reducing credit bureaus. f the Federal debt is what Republicans This legislation is designed to target have always claimed they were about, HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY something known as synthetic identity but we see now, with Republicans in OF LOTTIE ALBERT fraud. This begins when a criminal total control, that they have misled us. combines a real Social Security num- (Mr. HASTINGS asked and was given It is time to put this scam to bed, permission to address the House for 1 ber with fictitious information, such as Mr. Speaker, and bring new order to a name and date of birth, to apply for minute.) this House. Shame on the Republicans. Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise credit with a financial institution that today to mourn the passing of my dear f passes information to credit bureaus friend, Lottie Albert. PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION for a credit check. Credit bureaus create a record based Lottie was born on December 25, 1915, OF H.R. 5192, PROTECTING CHIL- on the fraudulent credentials. Over to Eva and Louis Wernick in New York DREN FROM IDENTITY THEFT time, this creates a synthetic identity City. Twenty-one years later, Lottie ACT married Sol Albert. The two enjoyed 55 based on the valid Social Security Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, by direc- years of marriage and have two lovely number but a false name. tion of the Committee on Rules, I call daughters, my friends, Harriet and Do- Currently, children and other vulner- up House Resolution 830 and ask for its reen. Lottie was the loving grand- able individuals are more likely to be immediate consideration. mother to Eric, Glenn, and Lowell, as victims of synthetic identity theft be- The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- well as the great-grandmother to Kyle, cause they do not drive, work, or estab- lows: Samantha, Heather, and Seth. lish credit. This makes it easier for an Lottie was a resident and community H. RES. 830 identity thief to misuse the Social Se- leader of Broward County for over 40 Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- curity number of a child without being years. It has been my honor to see lution it shall be in order to consider in the detected. Lottie’s commitment and passion for House the bill (H.R. 5192) to authorize the Reports indicate that over 1 million Commissioner of Social Security to provide serving her community. She was an children have their identity stolen confirmation of fraud protection data to cer- each year. Studies show that children amazing individual who dedicated her- tain permitted entities, and for other pur- self to helping so many throughout poses. All points of order against consider- are 50 times more likely than adults to south Florida. ation of the bill are waived. In lieu of the be a victim of identity theft. In 1988, she was inducted into the amendment in the nature of a substitute rec- This is a real and serious issue that is Area Agency on Aging’s Dr. Nan S. ommended by the Committee on Ways and only becoming more and more com- Hutchinson Broward Senior Hall of Means now printed in the bill, an amend- mon. According to TransUnion, a Fame. Additionally, Broward County ment in the nature of a substitute consisting record $355 million in outstanding cred- honored her by declaring November 12 of the text of Rules Committee Print 115-68 it card balances was owed by people shall be considered as adopted. The bill, as who it suspects didn’t exist in 2017. as Lottie Albert Appreciation Day. amended, shall be considered as read. All In 2012, Lottie was inducted into the points of order against provisions in the bill, That is up more than eightfold from Broward County Women’s Hall of Fame as amended, are waived. The previous ques- 2012. for her work with the Ann Storck Chil- tion shall be considered as ordered on the This type of fraud can saddle children dren’s Center. bill, as amended, and on any further amend- with unintended debt and a flawed

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:37 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.017 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3354 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 credit history sometimes before they It came out of committee 38–0. THOMPSON’s bill that would give States can even walk or drive a car. H.R. 5192 protects young children and the resources to help them submit in- That is why this bipartisan legisla- recent immigrants from synthetic formation to the background check tion is so important. The bill would re- identity theft, a type of fraud that in- system. One hundred Members of Con- quire the Social Security Administra- volves combining a legitimate Social gress, including seven Republicans, are tion to create a verification system to Security number with a fake name in cosponsoring the Gun Violence Re- match the name, Social Security num- order to create a new synthetic iden- straining Order Act, which will allow ber, and date of birth submitted by per- tity. One in every 10 children have fall- family members or law enforcement of- mitted entities against their official en victim to this type of threat. Re- ficials to petition a judge to tempo- records. search has shown that children’s iden- rarily remove firearms from an indi- This would allow financial institu- tities are stolen at a rate of 50 times vidual in crisis. We had that example tions to verify the accuracy of the cus- more frequently than adults, resulting in Florida after it passed its law. Im- tomer’s personal information in order in children and families shouldering mediately, a family came to the sher- to guard against synthetic identity unforeseeable debt and a flawed credit iff’s office to have weapons taken from fraud. history that is extremely difficult to a person in crisis. Importantly, the bill requires that clear. Has the Speaker brought these bipar- users of the verification system pay Mr. Speaker, in a refreshing change tisan measures to the floor for a vote? the full cost to limit any costs to tax- of pace, this measure, as I indicated, No. The Republican majority has re- payers. Also, the bill ensures that the had a 38–0 vote coming out of the fused to take up even the most basic provisions do not distract the Social markup in committee and included commonsense legislation to help miti- Security Administration from their input from Democrats, the IRS, and gate the epidemic of gun violence fac- core duties and responsibilities. consumer protection advocates. ing this country. My friends across the It is also important to note that the Unsurprisingly, as I have indicated, aisle have even refused to address the bill includes protections to ensure the it came out of committee overwhelm- use of bump stocks, a reform whose verification system is secure and not ingly with all 16 Democrats voting in need is agreed upon by Democrats and subject to abuse or misuse. The con- favor. The bipartisanship reflected in Republicans, including the President. sumer must also consent before their this bill is certainly a rarity in this Fortunately, in the State of Florida, it information could be subject to an in- body and, frankly, could have easily did pass in the last session of the legis- quiry. come before us under suspension of the lature. This is bipartisan, commonsense leg- rules. Mr. Speaker, just last year, 34 House islation that solves a real-world prob- It is now painfully obvious what the Republicans signed a letter to Speaker lem, but I bet it will never get the at- Republican majority’s playbook is. My PAUL RYAN urging him to bring for- tention that it deserves. This bill went friends across the aisle can work in a ward a permanent legislative solution through regular order. It passed out of bipartisan manner if they want to, but for the Dreamers, these young, hard- the Ways and Means Committee on a when it comes to major issues facing working individuals who are stuck in 38–0 vote, and I hope it receives a simi- our country, like taking away legal limbo. But despite this bipartisan lar vote here on the House floor. healthcare from 23 million Americans support, not to mention the support of Despite what some in the national or handing a $1.5 trillion tax giveaway 90 percent of the American public, the news media would have you to believe, to America’s wealthiest citizens, they Republican majority continues to this type of bipartisan legislation actu- would rather force through partisan block the Dream Act, ignoring the ally happens all the time here in the legislation written in back rooms with calls of the vast majority of Ameri- House. The vast majority of bills we little to no expert analysis, similar to cans. pass receive bipartisan support, and the farm bill that is about to come out It is time for the Trump administra- while that may not make for the best here sometime in the not-to-distant fu- tion and Republican-controlled Con- television, it is the reality of the work ture. gress to stop playing politics with the we do on a daily basis. While it is certainly refreshing that lives of Dreamers and come to terms So I urge my colleagues to support we are working in a bipartisan manner with the fact that their long anti-im- this rule and the Protecting Children for a change, protecting children and migrant wish list is not going any- From Identity Theft Act, and let’s families from identity theft is not the where fast. work to solve a problem impacting only bipartisan priority. These reforms Mr. Speaker, the House of Represent- Americans each and every day. are just as pressing as protecting our atives is a place where the issues facing Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to children from gun violence, providing our Nation should be addressed and support House Resolution 830 and the relief for hard-working, young Dream- solved in a bipartisan manner, similar underlying bill, and I reserve the bal- ers, and debating the use of military to this legislation. It is a sad state of ance of my time. force overseas—or how about an infra- affairs for the Nation that Congress Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, it is structure bill of consequence and real has continued to sit idly by while the kind of good to see a Floridian in the immigration reform. executive branch further engages our pro tempore chair. military in conflicts overseas without Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman b 1230 congressional authorization. from Alabama for yielding me the cus- Sixty-eight percent of Americans say Republican leadership’s refusal to tomary 30 minutes for debate, and I Congress must do more to reduce gun allow a robust debate on the efficacy of yield myself such time as I may con- violence. More than a million Ameri- an authorization of the use of military sume. cans took to the streets across the force for our presence in Syria is not Mr. Speaker, I rise today to debate country to march for our lives and to only a dereliction of duty but does a this rule. Last night at the Rules Com- urge Congress to take action to reduce great disservice to the country and our mittee, we had the opportunity to hear gun violence. I had the honor of sitting Constitution. If the President, any from Chairman KEVIN BRADY of the on the stage on that day, and I was President, intends to further involve Committee on Ways and Means, the never as proud as I was of the children American troops in the Syrian conflict, chairman of the Oversight Sub- from Broward County, where I am priv- or any conflict, then Congress has not committee, LYNN JENKINS, and the ileged to serve, or from around this Na- only the responsibility but also the ranking member of the Oversight Sub- tion, and their friends and allies, par- constitutional authority to lead that committee, JOHN LEWIS, about this leg- ents, loved ones, and constituents who conversation. islation. came from all over the country here, as Despite across-the-aisle support for They discussed—hey, America, listen well as to events in a significant num- these pressing problems, we are not to this—the bipartisan nature in which ber of locations around the country. here today debating the rule to address they worked on this issue to craft leg- 207 members of Congress, including 14 gun violence in America. We are not islation that they hope can achieve Republicans, are sponsoring H.R. 4240, here today debating the rule to protect strong bipartisan support in this body. the Democratic Representative MIKE Dreamers from being removed from our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:37 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.018 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3355 workforce or being deported to coun- House and the Senate without that. I tional Defense Authorization Act that tries of which they have no knowledge. hope that those negotiations and those comes out of the Committee on Armed We are not here today debating the discussions can somehow resume be- Services that I am in. rule for the use of military force in cause they clearly hit a very bad spot. We have a host of legislation that we Syria. We are not here today discussing The President has shown his good will be doing, and I think doing suc- immigration reform. We are not here faith. I hope the rest of us can reach cessfully, between now and when we today discussing an infrastructure back and find a way to address this have these midterm elections in No- measure that is desperately needed. issue. vember. So we are not done legislating When I came to Congress in 1992, But this issue is not just the Dream- by any means. there were 14,000 bridges in this coun- ers. It is also border security. If we are I look forward to continuing to de- try in need of repair. Today there are not willing to talk about that and bate these issues, but today we are 54,000 bridges in this country in need of chain migration and the others, we are talking about a very important bill repair. But we are not discussing that not really talking about immigration that did come through committee in a here today. Instead, we are using floor reform; we are talking about one piece bipartisan fashion and, I believe, is time to discuss a bill that could have of it. going to get broad bipartisan support easily been considered on the suspen- With regard to the AUMF, Authoriza- here in this body, once more showing sion calendar, and I predict that, had it tion for Use of Military Force, I am a the American people that we can get been on the suspension calendar, 435 strong advocate, as I think the gen- the people’s work done in the right Members, or as many as assembled, tleman knows, for a new AUMF. Actu- way. would have voted unanimously in favor ally, I am a cosponsor for one of the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of of the measure today as they would if bills that would provide for that. I have my time. Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, it were on the floor at this particular said, going back several years, that I through you, I would advise my friend moment. think we have been operating in cer- that I have no further speakers, and I Are my friends across the aisle intent tain parts of the world without ade- am prepared to close. quate authorization. And whether it is on running out the clock before the Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I am as constitutionally required or not, I midterm elections? Is that what the well. American people have to look forward think it is the right thing to do. Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield to over the next 7 months? The people However, I do not think the Presi- myself the balance of my time. who sent us here deserve bipartisan so- dent had to have prior congressional Mr. Speaker, I listened very intently lutions to the pressing problems con- authorization before the strike that to my friend from Alabama, and he in- fronting this great Nation. Not next was launched Friday night against dicated that the action that was just month. Not next week. Not tomorrow. Syria in conjunction with France and undertaken over the weekend by this But today. Great Britain. He clearly has that au- administration was ‘‘something,’’ and I Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of thority under Article II of the Con- maintain that it was under an old Au- my time. stitution, to protect our servicemen thorization for Use of Military Force. Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- and -women who are in Syria right Listen, one of the reasons Congress self such time as I may consume. now. So I applaud what the President won’t undertake to debate an author- Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the re- did. I applaud the way he did it. But I ization for the use of military force, marks of my good friend from Florida. am clear in my thinking that he did which I would urge my friend would I do want to note the presence on the not need prior authorization from Con- give us a strategy if we had that debate floor of our newest member of the gress to go there. and at least the administration would Rules Committee, the gentlewoman Now, I hope that we will get a strat- have Congress’ input with reference to from California (Mrs. TORRES). We wel- egy in general for Syria that fits into the use of military force—we can’t con- come her to the committee. our overall strategy to the Middle tinue to have pin pricks at the whim of I do think there are bipartisan things East. We have been stumbling around any President. I argued the same thing that we can do. The gentleman said one in Syria for several years now. Presi- during the Obama administration, and that I think is very important; that is, dent Obama put out the so-called red I argued it during the Clinton adminis- infrastructure. He and I have had this line, and then the Syrians walked tration. discussion before. The President wants across it and used chemical weapons What we have done is abdicate our us to do an infrastructure bill, and I against their people. And we did noth- responsibility in Congress when it think all of us want to do an infra- ing. All that did was encourage further comes to war. And if you think it isn’t structure bill. I think there is some bad behavior like what we saw in this war, then ask the 500,000 people who time here we need to take to make sure horrible chemical attack on innocent are dead as a result of this measure un- that we do get a bipartisan bill in that civilians in Syria. dertaken in Syria, not just by the regard. I don’t think it will pass with- At least President Trump is doing United States but with a variety of out a bipartisan agreement, so I hope something. And I hope that that some- forces fighting inside. If you think it we do that. thing that he has done will send a loud isn’t war when a bomb destroys a On the gun issue, as I think the gen- message, not just to the Assad regime building, or 76 missiles destroy build- tleman knows, the bump stock rule in Syria but also to Russia and to Iran, ings, then I have news for you about was actually something put in place by that the civilized world is not going to what war looks like. And we had no ATF under the Obama administration, tolerate that sort of activity. And we input. and President Trump has asked the don’t care who does it; we are going to My understanding is the administra- ATF essentially to rescind it, and they take appropriate action. The President tion met with the leadership of the Re- are in the process of doing that. So I had the authorization to do it, and I publican Party. I don’t recall hearing a hope they’ll do that. am glad that he did it. single Democrat was invited to have We did pass, and this body is part of We are not done legislating this year. any discussion at all about this matter. our appropriations bill for this fiscal I think the gentleman suggests that we Mr. Speaker, I applaud this bipar- year that has gone to the President and are, but we have got some big bills tisan legislation, as I have said, that been signed, the Fix NICS bill. So there coming before us. This week we will would limit synthetic identity fraud are gun legislation things, addressing take up a major IRS reform bill. I am and help protect millions of identities, these issues, that are moving forward. looking forward to that, this being tax including those of young children and He also brought up the very impor- day for so many of us. A good tax day recent immigrants, from being stolen. tant issue of immigration. The Presi- for the vast majority of the people in In a refreshing change of pace, this dent, I think, has made some very bold America, by the way. measure received input from Demo- moves in that regard to try to get a We will be taking up a reauthoriza- crats, the IRS, and consumer protec- discussion going so that we can have tion of the Federal Aviation Adminis- tion advocates. some bipartisanship here. It is clear tration. We will be taking up another My friend from Alabama said that that that is not going to pass both the farm bill. We will be taking up the Na- there are measures that are coming

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:37 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.020 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3356 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 forward, and I applaud him that those have just become immigrant citizens of SEC. 2. REPORTING REQUIREMENTS. measures are coming forward. But I this country. So I applaud the fact that (a) ATTORNEY GENERAL REPORT.—Not later didn’t hear him say that there were we have come forward with this legisla- than 120 days after the date of enactment of this Act, the Attorney General shall submit going to be measures having to do with tion. It shows that we are working to- to Congress a report on the status of pros- Dreamers. I didn’t hear him say there gether. I look forward to the debate on ecutions for violations of section 1028(a) or was anything that would be signifi- the floor of this House. 1028A(a) of title 18, United States Code, in- cantly involved in gun violence other Mr. Speaker, I again urge my col- cluding— than his words with reference to bump leagues to support House Resolution (1) the number of defendants referred to stocks and some reference back to 830 and the underlying bill. the Attorney General for prosecution during some other date in time. I am talking Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance the 5-year period immediately preceding the of my time, and I move the previous date of the report by any agency of the Fed- about right now, not only bump stocks eral Government, disaggregated by the num- but the necessary indicia for buying a question on the resolution. ber of defendants referred by each agency; weapon and the age for buying a weap- The previous question was ordered. (2) a map of the United States indicating on and a variety of measures. The resolution was agreed to. how many cases were referred for prosecu- Twenty-six measures exist right here A motion to reconsider was laid upon tion by agencies of the Federal Government in the House of Representatives on the table. in each judicial district; which we could be voting—any one of f (3) the rate, by year and judicial district, them—that are commonsense gun re- of convictions for cases described in para- COMMUNICATION FROM THE graph (1) that were prosecuted; and form. And we refuse to do so because CLERK OF THE HOUSE (4) the Attorney General’s recommenda- the Speaker won’t put them on the The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. tions regarding— floor. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida) laid before (A) identification of trends in the commis- I hope that we can continue working the House the following communica- sion of such offenses; together across the aisle to confront (B) how to improve collaboration with tion from the Clerk of the House of the pressing issues facing this great other Federal agencies; Representatives: Nation. When the farm bill comes here, (C) how to improve law enforcement deter- I hope Democrats have some input. OFFICE OF THE CLERK, rence and prevention of such offenses; and HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, They haven’t had any at this point. (D) whether such offenses are being com- Washington, DC, April 17, 2018. mitted by individuals or criminal organiza- And we can help people whom we have Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, tions. been elected to serve. The Speaker, House of Representatives, (b) SECRETARY OF THE TREASURY REPORT.— b 1245 Washington, DC. Not later than 120 days after the date of en- DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the per- actment of this Act, the Secretary of the However, it is time that we address mission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of Treasury shall submit a report to Congress gun violence in America; it is time the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- detailing— that we protect Dreamers; it is time we tives, the Clerk received the following mes- (1) current efforts by the Secretary to as- exert our constitutional authority and sage from the Secretary of the Senate on sist with the prosecution of violations of sec- debate a new Authorization for Use of April 17, 2018, at 11:20 a.m.: tion 1028(a) or 1028A(a) of title 18, United That the Senate agreed to S. Res. 467. States Code, wherein the defendant mis- Military Force; and it is time for us to The Honorable Michael C. Stenger as Ser- represented himself or herself to be engaged repair these broken-down bridges and geant at Arms and Doorkeeper of the Senate. in lawful activities on behalf of, or carrying raggedy roads in the United States of With best wishes, I am, out lawful duties as an officer or employee of America. Sincerely, the Internal Revenue Service; Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance KAREN L. HAAS. (2) overall trends in the commission of of my time. f such offenses; Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- (3) the Secretary’s recommendations re- self such time as I may consume. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER garding what resources are needed to facili- Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the re- PRO TEMPORE tate improved review and prosecution of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- such cases; and marks of my good friend from Florida. (4) information on what assistance the In- I certainly hope that there can be some ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair ternal Revenue Service may offer victims of further discussions and we can have will postpone further proceedings such offenses. something that comes forth on this today on motions to suspend the rules SEC. 3. PUBLICATION OF REPORT. floor that is truly bipartisan on the on which a recorded vote or the yeas Not later than 120 days after the date of issue of immigration reform, including and nays are ordered, or votes objected enactment of this Act, the Attorney General border security. to under clause 6 of rule XX. shall make the report submitted under sec- I know that there are some people, The House will resume proceedings tion 3(b) publically available on an Internet webpage of the Attorney General. not including my friend from Florida, on postponed questions at a later time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- who would like to pass legislation that f ant to the rule, the gentleman from would repeal the Second Amendment. I JUSTICE FOR VICTIMS OF IRS Texas (Mr. POE) and the gentlewoman hope that that legislation doesn’t come SCAMS AND IDENTITY THEFT from Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE) each to the floor because I do not think it ACT OF 2018 will control 20 minutes. would meet with the approval of the Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I The Chair recognizes the gentleman vast majority of the people of America. from Texas. I do strongly believe at some point move to suspend the rules and pass the GENERAL LEAVE we should be debating on this floor a bill (H.R. 2905) to require the Attorney Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I ask new Authorization for Use of Military General to establish procedures for ex- unanimous consent that all Members Force. But I will say again, the Presi- pedited review of the case of any per- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- dent did not need that authorization son who unlawfully solicits personal information for purposes of commit- tend their remarks and include extra- for what he did on Friday night, not neous material on H.R. 2905, currently because he was presuming to act under ting identity theft, while purporting to be acting on behalf of the IRS, and for under consideration. an old authorization, but because he The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there had the inherent power to do that other purposes, as amended. The Clerk read the title of the bill. objection to the request of the gen- under Article II of the Constitution. If The text of the bill is as follows: tleman from Texas? he is acting under that authority, he H.R. 2905 There was no objection. doesn’t need extra authorization from Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I us. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- resentatives of the United States of America in yield myself such time as I may con- This bill, however, that we are talk- Congress assembled, sume. ing about today is something we can SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Mr. Speaker, identity theft is a prob- all agree on, is something that is im- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Justice for lem across the United States. It affects portant for protecting young children Victims of IRS Scams and Identity Theft Act millions of Americans each year. A re- and, yes, for protecting people who of 2018’’. cent study found that $16 billion was

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.021 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3357 stolen from more than 15 million representatives trick victims into giv- The Justice for Victims of IRS Scams American consumers in 2016. ing them money. Some of the most vul- and Identity Theft Act of 2018 requires In the last several years, sophisti- nerable victims are senior citizens or the Department of Justice and the De- cated phone scams targeting taxpayers, individuals who are not familiar with partment of the Treasury to report to including recent immigrants and elder- the likes of government responsibil- Congress the efforts to combat the seri- ly persons, have been prevalent ities or actions. ous identity theft problem. The bill re- throughout the United States. Callers The bipartisan bill, H.R. 2905, the quires the DOJ to report on the status claim to be IRS employees using fake Justice for Victims of IRS Scams and of prosecutions of identity theft names and bogus IRS identification Identity Theft Act of 2018, helps ensure crimes. It asks for recommendations badge numbers. The fraudsters some- that Congress has the information it regarding how this crime is committed, times know a lot of information about needs to make sure that law enforce- how to improve collaboration with the targets, and they may even alter ment agencies are employing tactics to other Federal agencies, and how to im- the caller I.D. to make it look like the hold these criminals accountable and prove law enforcement deterrence and real IRS is calling them. deter future crimes. prevention of such offenses. Victims are told they owe money to I want to thank the gentleman from It also requires the Department of the IRS and that it must be paid Iowa (Mr. YOUNG) and the gentlewoman the Treasury to provide a report detail- promptly through a gift card or wire from Arizona (Ms. SINEMA) for their as- ing its current efforts to assist in the transfers. Victims are threatened with tute leadership on this bill and for rec- prosecution of identity theft when a arrest, deportation, or suspension of a ognizing that victims are left helpless criminal impersonates IRS personnel business or driver’s license. In many and hopeless sometimes. and the resources they need to facili- cases, the caller becomes hostile and As tax season comes to a close, mil- tate the prosecution of these offenses. insulting. In an effort to trick victims lions of Americans are at risk of being Please remember—I will say it into sharing private information, these exploited by emerging schemes where again—the IRS does not do business thieves sometimes claim that the re- scam artists pretend to be IRS agents this way. Be wary and reach out for funds are ready for deposit. If the and harass victims into providing per- help. phone isn’t answered, the scammers sonal information and money. The IRS This information will provide a help- leave an urgent callback request. estimates that more than $65 million ful insight into how law enforcement These crimes must be prosecuted in has been lost to phone tax scammers in agencies are addressing the heinous order to protect victims and bring the past 5 years. These attacks are problem that Congress wants to re- scheming criminals to justice. I urge most common during the tax season, in solve, and we want to stamp out iden- my colleagues to support H.R. 2905, the March and April. Those are dollars tity theft and the IRS scammers. that many valuable and important pro- Justice for Victims of IRS Scams and We need to ensure that Americans grams or responsibilities of our Federal Identity Theft Act, which will help are being protected from these con art- Government could utilize, dollars that Congress better understand how many ists who target and terrify Americans certainly don’t belong to criminals. and that these thieves are held ac- identity theft crimes are being pros- Often, scammers present themselves ecuted, as well as ways to prevent countable for their criminal activity, as the IRS and trick people into send- and that is why I ask my colleagues to these crimes, bolster assistance that is ing their money and personal informa- made available to victims, and go after support H.R. 2905, the Justice for Vic- tion. As technology advances, so do the tims of IRS Scams and Identity Theft the thieves. scammers. The IRS warned of a sophis- I thank Congressman DAVID YOUNG Act of 2018. ticated phone scam targeting tax- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of for his work on this bill, which will payers, including recent immigrants, protect American consumers, and I my time. which has been making the rounds Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I urge the Senate to take it up without throughout the country. yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from delay. Scammers claim to be IRS employees Iowa (Mr. YOUNG), the author of this Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of using fake names and bogus IRS identi- bill. my time. fication badges. They may know a lot Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I about their targets, and they usually thank both of my colleagues from yield myself such time as I may con- alter the caller I.D. to make it look Texas for their support of this meas- sume. like the IRS. ure. Mr. Speaker, let me thank the man- By debating this bill on the floor of Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support ager of this bill, Mr. POE, again, for his the House today, Mr. Speaker, we hope of my bipartisan bill, H.R. 2905, the continued leadership on issues of pro- that we are sending a far-reaching Justice for Victims of IRS Scams and tecting the victim. warning for those who may be watch- Identity Theft Act of 2018. I know that everyone has either gone ing or those who are watching to tell Scams and identity theft are increas- to their bank, been at a store, or got- others: Please understand that the IRS ingly complex and growing problems. ten that call that says that: ‘‘Are you has made it clear they do not do busi- Americans lose billions of dollars to Mrs. Jones? You live in Texas. There is ness that way. criminals—my colleague called them someone now in a department store in Victims are told they owe money to con artists; that is what they are—exe- New York using your identity, your the IRS and they must be paid prompt- cuting identity theft and fraud each card, your credit card,’’ and nothing ly through a gift card or a wire trans- year. Many in the Third District of but fear comes your way. It may not be fer. That is not the way IRS does busi- Iowa have spoken to me about their even on the basis of you having lost ness. Victims may be threatened with fear of having their identity, bank or your credit cards, but it may be on the arrest or deportation or suspension of a credit card numbers, and other per- basis of the dastardly act of stealing business or driver’s license. sonal information stolen. your identity. Seek immediate help through coun- Mr. Speaker, imagine getting a call Probably there is nothing more, be- sel, through calling, directly, the IRS from your bank or credit card company sides family and faith and country and or your public servant that is nearby. explaining your information has been God, that disturbs you most than to In many cases, the caller becomes stolen. Or imagine having a Federal lose who you are. And so the legisla- hostile and insulting. If the phone isn’t agent knock on your door because tion of H.R. 2905, the Justice for Vic- answered, the scammers often leave an someone stole your name, Social Secu- tims of IRS Scams and Identity Theft urgent callback request. That is not rity number, or banking information. Act of 2018, is a valuable legislative ini- the way the Federal Government does tiative because, every year, billions of its business, or the IRS. b 1300 dollars are stolen from hardworking Scared and confused, many victims This reality can turn a family’s Americans as a result of identity theft. comply with the scammer’s request out world upside down. Millions of Ameri- Tax season, as it begins today, or of fear of the repercussions. Please do cans have gotten that call, and many ends today, is a particularly dangerous not adhere to these heinous and vile have lost everything because of iden- time as scammers pretending to be IRS actions against you. tity theft.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.026 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3358 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 The Justice for Victims of IRS Scams measures to protect all forms of iden- Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. YOUNG from and Identity Theft Act of 2018 requires tity theft. But I want to use the termi- Iowa and Ms. SINEMA from Arizona for the Attorney General and Treasury nology ‘‘victims’’ because, as I have this bipartisan legislation; the chair- Secretary to create and submit reports said, senior citizens, people who are man of the Judiciary Committee for to Congress about identity theft and there alone; and, of course, families, bringing this to the floor; and my fraud across the United States. individuals who are not experienced; friend, Ms. JACKSON LEE, from Hous- In 2016, the Treasury Inspector Gen- first-time filers, for example, of their ton, Texas, for supporting this legisla- eral for Tax Administration, Russell IRS filing; and people who don’t have, tion as well. George, said Americans submit up to or know, anyone to call, they are par- Mr. Speaker, when the phone rings 14,000 complaints about IRS imperson- ticularly in the eye of the storm. and a person answers it, if somebody on ation scams every week. He also said I, again, reiterate—if you are listen- the other end says they are from the IRS impersonation scams were ‘‘the ing to us—do not respond to those IRS, that brings fear and trepidation largest, most pervasive impersonation kinds of intimidating calls. Please call into the soul of whoever answers the scam in the history of the agency.’’ the IRS. Yes, you can call the IRS or phone. People fear the IRS for a mul- This is serious. These scams are indis- your public servant that is nearby, or titude of reasons, so they become vul- criminate and can impact any person seek some relief in some other manner. nerable to a thief who identifies them- at any time. Identity theft can occur in many set- selves as an IRS agent and want to do The report submitted to Congress by tings. It can occur in public places the right thing. They don’t want to go the Attorney General as a result of my where criminals watch you from a to jail for an IRS violation, so they co- bill—this bipartisan bill—will contain nearby location as you punch in your operate with this criminal on the other the number of defendants referred to credit card number, or listen in on end who is a smooth-talking criminal the Department of Justice for identity your conversation if you have to give thief, who is trying to steal money theft and fraud, a map of the United your credit card number over the tele- from this person. States which shows where cases were phone. It can also occur if you receive As Ms. JACKSON LEE said, many referred from, and the rate of convic- applications for pre-approved credit times these are the elderly. These are tion for cases prosecuted. cards in the mail, but discard them people who have tried to save money This bill also recommends the Attor- without tearing up the enclosed mate- over the years; and now the IRS, they ney General provide information on rials. A first notice to everyone: those think, is coming after them, and they how to improve collaboration with items should be shredded. want to cooperate because they want other Federal agencies and discuss Many people’s information is stolen to follow the law. trends in identity theft and fraud when they are inquiring to spam These scammers are just, to me, cases. The Department of Justice emails that promise them some ben- some of the worst people in our soci- should suggest what we can do to deter efit, but request identifying data. In ety. As a former judge and prosecutor, criminals and prevent identity theft some cases, criminals reportedly abuse I don’t like thieves—people who steal from happening. computer technology to steal large from others—especially vulnerable peo- The report from the Treasury Sec- amounts of personal data. ple. retary will contain what efforts the With enough identifying information This legislation helps in a couple of Secretary has undertaken in the pros- about an individual, a criminal can ways, several ways. It helps the vic- ecution of IRS impersonation cases and take over that individual’s identity to tims understand what their responsi- recommendations for resources needed conduct a wide range of crimes. You bility is, and is not, when somebody to assist victims of these crimes. don’t want to get that phone call. calls. But it also lets those thieves out As founder of the Bipartisan Task Maybe it is not a store in New York, there in our country, and other coun- Force to Combat Identity Theft and but it might be a store in Istanbul, or Fraud, I have compiled helpful re- somewhere beyond, that your credit tries, know that we are going to go sources to ensure all Iowans and Amer- card is being used. after them. I mean, $16 billion stolen in icans have the tools and resources they False applications for loans and cred- one year from 15 million Americans. need to stay informed and protected it cards, fraudulent withdrawals from That is a lot of money. That is a lot of from these scams. I know my col- bank accounts, fraudulent use of tele- money even for the government. leagues do this, as well, for their con- phone calling cards, or online accounts, This legislation is vital, it is good stituents. it is important to be reminded the legislation, it is bipartisan legislation, The reports from the Attorney Gen- world is getting smaller and these cred- and it should pass quickly. The Senate, eral and Treasury Secretary will help it card accounts can be used all over down the hallway, should take up this Americans protect themselves and give the world. The consequences of iden- bill and pass it as well. Members of Congress the tools we need tity theft can be severe and can leave a And that is just the way it is. to better protect our bosses: our con- person with no funds to pay for every- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance stituents. day living costs. Identity fraud can of my time. Mr. Speaker, fighting these criminals have a significant effect on your credit Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, every starts with knowing what is out there history. year, billions of dollars are stolen from hard- and being as prepared as possible, If an identity theft uses your existing working Americans as a result of identity theft. which is why I encourage my col- credit or applies for new credit, this Tax season is a particularly dangerous time as leagues to join me in support of this bi- could leave a footprint of debt or scammers pretending to be IRS representa- partisan bill. missed payments in your credit report, tives, trick victims into giving them money. The Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I even to the extent that this individual bipartisan bill, H.R. 2905 ‘‘Justice for Victims yield myself such time as I may con- generates a bankruptcy. Even if the of IRS Scams and Identity Theft Act of 2018,’’ sume. criminal applies for credit and is re- helps ensure that Congress has the informa- Mr. Speaker, in closing, again, let me jected, this can still have a negative tion it needs to make sure that law enforce- thank Mr. YOUNG from Iowa for his impact on your credit history, as each ment agencies are employing tactics to hold presence here. And let me thank Ms. application for credit is recorded. these criminals accountable and deter future SINEMA, who has always been astutely It is with these concerns that I ap- crimes. concerned about the fairness to those plaud this legislation and ask my col- As tax season comes to a close, millions of who may be victimized by these das- leagues to support the present legisla- Americans are at risk of being exploited by an tardly acts. I reiterate again that they tion that is H.R. 2905, the Justice for emerging scheme where scam artists pretend are conmen and -women, and Ms. Victims of IRS Scams and Identity to be IRS agents and harass victims into pro- SINEMA knows well the importance of Theft Act of 2018. The victims are our viding personal information and money. The protecting her constituents, so I want most important cause. IRS estimates that more than $65 million has to congratulate her and Mr. YOUNG for Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance been lost to phone tax scammers in the past this legislation. of my time. five years. These attacks are most common Again, I want to emphasize how im- Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I during the high high tax season in March and portant it is that we take important yield myself the remainder of my time. April.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.028 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3359 Often scammers present themselves as the of identity theft can be severe and can leave gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. PAS- IRS and trick people into sending them money a person with no funds to pay for everyday liv- CRELL) each will control 20 minutes. and personal information. As technology ad- ing costs. Identity fraud can have a significant The Chair recognizes the gentleman vances so do the scammers. The IRS warned effect on your credit history. If an identity thief from Washington. of a sophisticated phone scam targeting tax- uses your existing credit or applies for new GENERAL LEAVE payers, including recent immigrants, which has credit, this could leave a footprint of debt or Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I ask been making the rounds throughout the coun- missed payments on your credit report. Even unanimous consent that all Members try. Scammers claim to be IRS employees, if the criminal applies for credit and is rejected may have 5 legislative days in which to using fake names and bogus IRS identification this can still have a negative effect on your revise and extend their remarks and in- badge numbers. They may know a lot about credit history as each application for credit is clude extraneous material on H.R. 4403, their targets, and they usually alter the caller recorded. currently under consideration. ID to make it look like the IRS is calling. It is with these concerns in mind that we act The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Victims are told they owe money to the IRS on this legislation today. I support this bill and objection to the request of the gen- and it must be paid promptly through a gift encourage my colleagues to do the same. tleman from Washington? card or wire transfer. Victims may be threat- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. There was no objection. Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield ened with arrest, deportation or suspension of BACON). The question is on the motion myself such time as I may consume. a business or driver’s license. In many cases, offered by the gentleman from Texas Mr. Speaker, I am proud to speak the caller becomes hostile and insulting. If the (Mr. POE) that the House suspend the today in support of H.R. 4403, the Mov- phone isn’t answered, the scammers often rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2905, as ing Americans Privacy Protection Act, leave an ‘‘urgent’’ callback request. Scared amended. a bipartisan, commonsense bill, au- and confused, many victims comply with the The question was taken. thorized by Congressman JEFF DENHAM scammers request out of fear of the repercus- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the and gentleman BILL PASCRELL. It was sions. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being favorably reported out of the Ways and The ‘‘Justice for Victims of IRS Scams and in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Means Committee by a voice vote last Identity Theft Act of 2018,’’ requires the De- Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on week. partment of Justice and the Department of that I demand the yeas and nays. This legislation will help put an end Treasury to report to Congress the efforts to The yeas and nays were ordered. to the inadvertent disclosure of person- combat the serious identity theft problem. The The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ally identifiable information, such as bill requires the DOJ to report on the status of ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- Social Security numbers and passport prosecutions of identity theft crimes. It asked ceedings on this motion will be post- numbers that are transmitted on cer- for recommendations regarding how this crime poned. tain shipment documents to the U.S. is committed, how to improve collaboration f Customs and Border Protection. with other federal agencies, and how to im- CBP, as it is called, is required by MOVING AMERICANS PRIVACY prove law enforcement deterrence and pre- law to make certain shipment data PROTECTION ACT vention of such offenses. It also requires the available to the public, but that infor- Department of Treasury to provide a report Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I move mation should not include personally detailing its current efforts to assist in the to suspend the rules and pass the bill identifiable information which may be prosecution of identity theft where the criminal (H.R. 4403) to amend the Tariff Act of erroneously included on shipment doc- impersonates IRS personnel and the re- 1930 to protect personally identifiable uments by carriers. sources they need to facilitate the prosecution information, and for other purposes, as CBP maintains procedures for indi- of these offenses. This information will provide amended. viduals to request confidential treat- a helpful insight into how our law enforcement The Clerk read the title of the bill. ment for their personal information, agencies are addressing the problem and The text of the bill is as follows: but that process is slow. Plus, individ- what Congress can do to help improve the re- H.R. 4403 uals probably would not seek confiden- sults. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- tial treatment if they don’t realize We need to ensure that Americans are resentatives of the United States of America in that their personal information was in- being protected from these con artists who tar- Congress assembled, cluded on shipment documents in the get and terrify Americans and that these SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. first place. thieves are held accountable for their criminal This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Moving Even if the release of such informa- activity. That is why I support H.R. 2905, ‘‘Jus- Americans Privacy Protection Act’’. tion is unintended, Federal agencies should not be putting Americans at tice for Victims of IRS Scams and Identity SEC. 2. PROTECTION OF PERSONALLY IDENTIFI- ABLE INFORMATION. risk for identity theft, credit card Theft Act of 2018.’’ (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 431(c)(2) of the Mr. Speaker, in closing I want to emphasize fraud, and unwanted solicitations. We Tariff Act of 1930 (19 U.S.C. 1431(c)(2)) is can, and should, do more to protect how important it is that we take important amended to read as follows: Americans from such risks and hold measures to protect against all forms of iden- ‘‘(2)(A) The information listed in paragraph Federal agencies accountable. tity theft. (1) shall not be available for public disclo- This legislation would do just that by Identity theft can occur in many settings. It sure if— requiring CBP to ensure that such per- can occur in public places where criminals ‘‘(i) the Secretary of the Treasury makes an affirmative finding on a shipment-by- sonal information is no longer dis- watch you from a nearby location as you closed. punch in your credit card number or listen in shipment basis that disclosure is likely to pose a threat of personal injury or property Mr. Speaker, I thank Congressman on your conversation if you give your credit- damage; or DENHAM and my good friend, Congress- card number over the telephone. It can also ‘‘(ii) the information is exempt under the man PASCRELL, the ranking member on occur if you receive applications for ‘‘pre-ap- provisions of section 552(b)(1) of title 5, the Subcommittee on Trade, for intro- proved’’ credit cards in the mail but discard United States Code. ducing this important legislation. them without tearing up the enclosed mate- ‘‘(B) The Secretary shall ensure that any Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to rials. Many people’s information is stolen when personally identifiable information, includ- join us in supporting this bipartisan they respond to spam emails that promise ing Social Security account numbers and bill, and I reserve the balance of my them some benefit but requests identifying passport numbers, is removed from any manifest signed, produced, delivered, or elec- time. data. In some cases, criminals reportedly have tronically transmitted under this section be- Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield used computer technology to steal large fore access to the manifest is provided to the myself such time as I may consume. amounts of personal data. public.’’. Mr. Speaker, I speak today in sup- With enough identifying information about (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment port of the Moving Americans Privacy an individual, a criminal can take over that in- made by subsection (a) shall take effect on Protection Act, which would require dividual’s identity to conduct a wide range of the date that is 30 days after the date of the that U.S. Customs and Border Protec- crimes. False applications for loans and credit enactment of this Act. tion ensures that personally identifi- cards, fraudulent withdrawals from bank ac- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- able information is not publicly dis- counts, fraudulent use of telephone calling ant to the rule, the gentleman from closed during an international house- cards, or online accounts. The consequences Washington (Mr. REICHERT) and the hold move.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.019 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3360 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 Customs is currently required to ade- ensure that Federal agencies are tak- net and his administration, lavish trav- quately protect personally identifiable ing the necessary extra step of remov- el on military jets and first-class tick- information that is provided on, among ing Social Security numbers, passport ets for personal reasons, and expensive other things, international shipping numbers, and ID numbers from ship- office decorations. Lobbyists have been documents. In order to fulfill this man- ping information. welcomed into agencies to write their date, Customs currently maintains pro- Currently, the Customs and Border own regulations. cedures that allow shippers to request Protection agency is not taking this His campaign and White House is confidential treatment of certain infor- step. filled with the ranks of people who al- mation. In absence of this action, when Amer- ready have pleaded guilty; Michael However, it can often take Customs icans move internationally, their infor- Flynn, who sold his connections to several months to make a determina- mation may be erroneously made pub- Russia and Turkish dictators while tion on such a request. Some deter- lic online. working for Mr. Trump; and so many minations are not even made until Representatives from the Depart- other associates and their connections after the information has already been ment of Defense, Department of State, to foreign governments as leverage, publicly disclosed. That is the problem. the DEA, and FBI, and others have and that is potentially a conflict of in- As a result, personally identifiable heard from their employees on numer- terest. information has been mistakenly dis- ous occasions that their information Bribery and grift might have a place closed to the public. This impact has has been found for sale on the internet in a crime family, but it has no place been acutely felt by U.S. civil servants through the manifest disclosure proc- in the Office of the President or in the and military personnel, which make up ess. Congress of the United States, and this a large percentage of international Annual Department of Defense moves Congress has been absolutely derelict household moves. alone are enormous in scope, with and complicit in the unprecedented Disclosing this information has in- roughly 600,000 servicemembers and conflicts of this Presidency. creased the risks that individuals may their families moving every year, of Since February of 2017, I have been be the victims of identity theft and which 200,000 of those are going inter- calling on the chairman of the Com- credit card fraud. national. mittee on Ways and Means to request In 2014 and 2015, the Army’s Surface b 1315 the President’s tax returns, which he Deployment and Distribution Com- has the authority to do under section In my view, the current system at mand issued separate advisories alert- 6103 of the Tax Code. I have called up Customs is not working as well as it ing servicemembers to this issue. resolutions. Eighteen times the com- could or should. We must do a better job of protecting mittee and this House have voted I also do not believe that individuals our armed servicemembers who are against seeing the President’s tax re- should bear the burden of making a making a sacrifice to wear the cloth of turns. Why? proactive request to Customs to ensure this great Nation. Why did the President support giving that their personally identifiable infor- I want to be clear that there is merit rich people and corporations a giant mation is not publicly disclosed. We to shipping and cargo statistics. We tax cut? Why is he letting Wall Street should be able to expect that our gov- need to make them available for eco- and Big Oil write their own rules? Why ernment will protect such sensitive in- nomic trend analysis, but that does not are his children still running his com- formation. mean that we put our citizens and pany? Why has he not divested, as he This bill is intended to rectify the Armed Forces at risk in the process. was told to do by the ethics commis- problems by mandating that Customs The manifest disclosure process sioner? put in place a proactive system that should not be repealed. The CBP should President Trump seems to have an will prevent personally identifiable in- be required to remove the sensitive unhealthy admiration for authori- formation from being made public. data. tarian leaders. He seems to have a vi- I call on my colleagues to support Chairman BRADY and Chairman sion of turning America into an econ- this commonsense legislation that has REICHERT have identified this issue and omy and government run by his own support on both sides of the aisle. unanimously reported the bill out of greedy and connected circle of Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of the committee last week. It is good oligarchs. But subverting our democ- my time. governance and bipartisan legislation. racy for personal gain while Congress Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my looks the other way is poisonous to our 5 minutes to the gentleman from Cali- colead, Congressman PASCRELL, for his republic and our democracy and it is an fornia (Mr. DENHAM), the coauthor of work on this bill, and I urge its pas- anthema to our values. this legislation. sage. Today is tax day, the 452nd day of Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. Trump’s Presidency and the 452nd Chairman REICHERT of the Sub- myself the balance of my time. I have day this Congress has let him off the committee on Trade for yielding and no further speakers, and I am prepared hook. for his work on this important issue. to close. I call on the chairman of Ways and Protecting Americans’ personally Mr. Speaker, today is tax day, as if Means to stop delaying and get Mr. identifiable information has been hotly you didn’t know that, and newly filed Trump’s tax returns now, like every debated in the Halls of Congress this FEC reports show that the President’s other President for the past several month. Last week, we debated appro- campaign paid his businesses $150,000 in decades. The American people demand priate limitations on private compa- the first quarter of this year, including it. We owe it to our democracy to shed nies’ access, use, and distribution of $68,000 to the Trump Hotel in D.C., and light on his conflicts. private data. $58,000 for rent. Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD This week in the House, we are mov- Lobbyists in foreign governments an article from New York magazine. ing a package of bills to improve the continue to spend money at these ho- Federal Government’s use of Ameri- tels. We have no way of verifying what [From New York Magazine, April 1, 2018] cans’ data to ensure that the govern- that income looks like or where it is 501 DAYS IN SWAMPLAND ment is doing everything to keep its coming from. (By Joy Crane and Nick Tabor, Introduction citizens safe. Candidate Trump said on the cam- by David Cay Johnston) Private companies should not be sell- paign trail: ‘‘My whole life I have been On the day he took the oath of office, Don- ing personal information without con- greedy, greedy, greedy. I have grabbed ald Trump delivered two messages about sent, but unequivocally, the Federal all the money I could get. I am so what to expect from his administration. Government should not be selling the greedy.’’ First came the lofty promise of his inaugural address. ‘‘The forgotten men and women of personal information of its citizens and Since the election, we have witnessed our country will be forgotten no longer,’’ he armed services members. not just his own conflicts of self-en- vowed. ‘‘For too long, a small group in our I introduced H.R. 4403, the Moving richment at taxpayers’ expense, but nation’s capital has reaped the rewards of Americans Privacy Protection Act, to petty graft from members of his Cabi- government while the people have borne the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:55 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.031 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3361 cost. Washington flourished—but the people loan—for nearly $1 billion—is from a syn- tion from coal plants by a third and saved did not share in its wealth.’’ dicate assembled by Goldman Sachs that in- taxpayers and consumers as much as $93 bil- The second message, which Trump deliv- cludes the state-owned Bank of China If ei- lion a year. The venue for the mining board’s ered without speaking a word, was aimed at ther Trump or Jared Kushner, who tried to meeting: the Trump International Hotel in a much smaller, but very rich, audience. As shake down Qatar’s finance minister for a Washington, D.C. the new president’s motorcade left the Cap- loan, winds up needing to negotiate new 10/5 A commercial real-estate trade asso- itol, rolling past knots of supporters and pro- terms on his ballooning debt, America could ciation hosts an awards gala at Trump’s testers, it suddenly stopped three blocks find itself being dictated to by a foreign gov- hotel, sponsored by a roster of prominent short of the White House. Trump, the First ernment—all because the White House, lobbying agents. Lady, and the rest of his family got out of thanks to Trump’s business model, has be- 10/11 The American Legislative Exchange their limos and took a three-minute turn in come a true House of Cards. Council, a powerful conservative lobbying the middle of Pennsylvania Avenue. What follows is 501 days of official corrup- group with ties to the Koch brothers, an- nounces that the venue for its 45th-anniver- This was no random spot. The very first tion, from small-time graft and brazen influ- sary gala will be Trump’s hotel. The group place Trump headed after being sworn in— ence peddling to full-blown raids on the fed- requests corporate sponsorships of up to his true destination all along, in a sense— eral Treasury. But as even this initial $100,000. was the Old Post Office and Clock Tower, glimpse makes clear, Trump isn’t draining which only 12 days before the election had the swamp—he’s monetizing it.—David Cay 2018 been repurposed as the Trump International Johnston 3/5 The Independent Petroleum Association Hotel Washington. The elegant granite of America holds a three-day lobbying event TRUMP’S HOTEL IN D.C. structure, whose architectural character at the hotel. Trump had promised to preserve, was now 2016 3/28 A federal judge declines to stop a law- besmirched by a gaudy, faux-gold sign bear- 12/7 Diplomats from Bahrain move the suit that accuses Trump of violating the ing his name. The carefully choreographed country’s National Day celebration from the Constitution by accepting money from for- stop sent a clear signal to the foreign gov- Ritz-Carlton to the ballroom at the Trump eign governments at his hotel. ernments, lobbyists, and corporate interests International Hotel in Washington, D.C. MAR-A-LAGO keen on currying favor in Washington. 2017 ‘‘The ornate Jazz Age house was designed Oil companies, mining interests, insurance 1/20 A watchdog group calls on the General with Old-World Spanish, Venetian, and Por- executives, foreign diplomats, and defense tuguese influences.’’—From a state depart- Services Administration, a federal agency, contractors all rushed to book their annual ment promo online conferences at Trump’s hotels and resorts, to stop leasing the Old Post Office to Trump 2016 where Cabinet members graciously addressed for use as the hotel. The agency’s ethics divi- them. After hiking the nightly rate to $653— sion, which reports to Trump, rules that the 12/31 Mar-a-Lago hosts a New Year’s Eve 32 percent higher than other local luxury ho- $180 million deal is fine. party with Trump, priced at $525 a ticket. tels—Trump collected $2 million in profits 1/23 Saudi Arabia holds a bash at the hotel His take for the night: $400,000. from the property during his first three after renting rooms for lobbyists for five 2017 months in office. By last August, the hotel’s months. Trump’s haul: $270,000. 1/1 The resort quietly doubles its initiation bar and restaurant had hauled in another $8 2/25 The Kuwaiti Embassy, reportedly pres- fee to $200,000—a potential haul of $2 million. million in revenue. And although Trump has sured by the Trump Organization, moves its In return, club members get access to the pledged to give away any money his hotels National Day celebration from the Four Sea- president on a par with White House offi- earn from foreign governments, the plan con- sons to Trump’s hotel. cials. tains a lucrative loophole: Employees at his 3/1 The National Railroad Construction and 4/4 The State Department runs an online hotels admit that they make no effort to Maintenance Association hosts a dinner at promotion for Mar-a-Lago, which is also identify guests who represent other coun- the hotel, drenched in Trump-branded coffee picked up by embassy websites in England tries, meaning that much of the foreign and wine. and Albania. 4/6 Trump and Ivanka meet with Chinese money spent at Trump’s properties flows di- 3/22 The American Petroleum Institute president Xi Jinping at Mar-a-Lago. That rectly into his own pockets. On March 28, a holds its board meeting at Trump’s hotel, same day, China approves trademarks for federal judge allowed a lawsuit to go forward where it meets with EPA chief Scott Pruitt. A month later, Pruitt suspends drilling regu- three of Ivanka’s brands. that charges Trump with violating the Con- 6/16 Financial-disclosure filings show that lations. stitution by accepting money from foreign Trump’s revenues from the resort soared by 5/1 Rates at the hotel jump to $653 per governments at his D.C. hotel. 25 percent during his presidential run. In fact, although Trump refuses to disclose night, a price hike of 60 percent since 7/17 The administration increases the allot- the details of his myriad business operations, Trump’s election. ment of H2–B visas for foreign workers. he continues to enjoy access to every dime 5/21 A Turkish government council holds Within days, Mar-a-Lago applies for 76 of the he makes as president. Instead of setting up its annual conference at the hotel. The new visas—even though a local jobs agency a blind trust to avoid conflicts of interest, as group’s chair founded the company that paid has 5,100 applicants qualified to fill the open- other presidents have done, Trump put his $530,000 to former national-security adviser ings. two grown sons in charge of his more than Michael Flynn for lobbying work. 11/10 The Republican Attorneys General 500 business entities. His sons regularly brief 7/17 E-cigarette-makers hold their annual Association, which has spent more than Trump about how the enterprises are doing. conference at the hotel. Ten days later, the $75,000 at Trump’s properties in five months, What’s more, only 15 days after this ‘‘eyes FDA announces it will delay federal over- holds a reception at Mar-a-Lago. It later wide open’’ trust was set up, Trump amended sight of e-cigarettes until 2022. forms a ‘‘working group’’ to partner with the the fine print to allow him to take money 8/11 A federal agency accidentally posts the Trump administration to roll back environ- out of the operation any time he pleases. The hotel’s Q1 profits: $2 million. mental protections. loophole, buried on page 161 of the 166–page 9/13 Staffers for Linda McMahon, head of 12/9 Oxbow Carbon, a major energy com- form, stipulates that any ‘‘net income or the Small Business Administration, try to pany that would benefit from the Keystone principal’’ can be distributed to Trump ‘‘at cover up the fact that she addressed a busi- XL pipeline, holds its annual holiday gala at his request.’’ Far from putting his wealth in ness lobbying event at the hotel, avoiding Mar-a-Lago. a blind trust, Trump asked the public for its images of hotel signs bearing Trump’s name 12/31 Trump boosts ticket prices for his blind trust, effectively sticking his money in when posting photos of the event on Twitter. New Year’s Eve bash to $750. Taxpayers foot a piggy bank in Don Jr.’s room that he is 9/28 The Fund for American Studies, a con- the $26,000 bill for lights, generators, and tent rental. free to raid at any hour of the day or night. servative organization, hosts a lunch at the Trump’s children are working hard to cash hotel. The keynote speaker, Supreme Court 2018 in on his time in office—especially with for- Justice Neil Gorsuch, thanks Trump’s staff 1/9 The Trump administration opens off- eign investors. At taxpayer expense, they for helping him get confirmed. shore drilling in all but one state: Florida, have flown to Uruguay, the Dominican Re- 10/4 At its annual board meeting, the Na- where oil and gas exploration could hurt public, Dubai, and India in search of licens- tional Mining Association is addressed by business at Mar-a-Lago. ing and real-estate deals, trading on the three Cabinet members: Commerce Sec- 2/18 Reports reveal that Trump regularly president’s influence in exchange for invest- retary Wilbur Ross, Labor Secretary Alex- solicits input from Mar-a-Lago members on ments. But the biggest complication of ander Acosta, and Energy Secretary Rick everything from gun control to Jared Trump’s presidency—and the one he works Perry. ‘‘Coal is fighting back,’’ Perry exults Kushner’s favorability. hardest to keep secret—is the way his entire over breakfast with the country’s top mining 2/26 An Israel-focused charity, the Truth business operation is mired in massive debt. executives. ‘‘Clearly the president wants to About Israel, relocates its gala to Mar-a- Rather than being independently wealthy, revive, not revile, this vital resource. ‘‘Five Lago in appreciation of the president’s sup- port for Israel. public records show, Trump and the business days later, the Trump administration an- partnerships in which he is a leading inves- nounces the repeal of Obama’s Clean Power TRUMP’S OTHER PROPERTIES & INVESTMENTS tor owe big banks and foreign governments Plan, which would have encouraged states to 2016 at least $2.3 billion—far more than his disclo- replace coal with wind and solar energy. The 11/14 In a call with Argentina’s president, sure reports indicate. His largest single plan would have cut climate-warming pollu- Mauricio Macri, Trump reportedly pushes for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.016 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3362 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 approval to build a Trump Tower in down- company poured $450,000 into Trump’s cam- 2/18 Taxpayers pay $16,000 to provide secu- town Buenos Aires Ivanka Trump, who over- paign and inauguration after Obama an- rity for Eric Trump and Donald Jr. during sees the family business with her brothers, nounced plans to end all federal contracts their trip to open a Trump-branded golf sits in on the call. with private prisons. GEO also hired two of course in Dubai. The event is invitation- 2017 Jeff Sessions’s former aides, plus a former only. Trump Organization employee, as lobbyists. 3/3 Jared Kushner meets with the CEO of 1/24 Trump signs an executive order to fast- The investment paid off: A month after Citigroup, which is lobbying to loosen finan- track the Dakota Access Pipeline. He claims Trump took office, he ended the ban on pri- cial regulations. Citigroup subsequently to have sold the stock he owns in the pipe- vate prisons. GEO received a $110 million lends Kushner’s company $325 million to de- line’s builders—as much as $300,000—but of- contract to build a new immigration jail in velop a group of office buildings in Brooklyn. fers no proof. Texas, plus $44 million a year to operate it. 3/9 Kushner fails to disclose his ownership 1/27 Trump issues the travel ban but leaves Earlier this year, the federal Bureau of Pris- of Cadre, a real-estate start-up. The firm’s off Saudi Arabia, Turkey, and Egypt—coun- ons announced it would slash some 6,000 jobs value shot up by millions of dollars after he tries where he has significant business inter- and transfer more inmates to private facili- entered the White House. ests. His company was paid as much as $10 ties. 3/20 Eric’s wife posts a photo on Instagram million for use of his name on a tower in 10/18 Defense contractor L3 Technologies of the family’s weeklong ski vacation in Istanbul, and he registered eight new busi- holds its annual meeting at Trump National Aspen. Taxpayers were charged $330,000 for nesses in Saudi Arabia during his campaign. Doral. L3 depends on government largesse security details and another $200,000 for lux- 2/3 Trump, who owned as much as $5 mil- for 84 percent of its revenue. ury lodgings. lion in bank stocks in 2016, orders the Treas- 10/19 In a break with tradition, Trump per- 3/20 Ivanka, refusing to place her assets in ury secretary to consider ways to roll back sonally interviews candidates for U.S. attor- a blind trust, sets up shop in the West Wing. regulations on banks. The value of bank ney in the districts that cover most of his 4/24 Kushner’s family tries to broker fund- stocks soars nearly 30 percent during his business dealings. For the New York posi- ing for his real-estate ventures with Qatar’s first year in office. tion, he ultimately chooses one of his cam- finance minister. The minister declines. A 2/14 Trump, who owned stock in large oil paign donors. month later, Kushner supports diplomatic companies, allows oil companies to hide the 11/7 Trump hawks his golf course during a actions against Qatar. payments they make to foreign governments major speech to South Korea’s legislature. 5/4 State Department and Voice of America in exchange for extraction rights. The move 11/8 A payday-lender lobbying group an- promote Ivanka’s book Women Who Work comes only two months after ExxonMobil, nounces it will hold its 2018 annual con- 5/5 Trump extends fast-track visas for for- which lobbied for the concession, donated ference at the Trump National Doral. Two eigners who invest $500,000 in U.S. properties. $500,000 to Trump’s inauguration. months later, the administration announces The next day, Kushner’s sister promises 2/21 Angela Chen, a consultant with ties to it is considering scrapping a rule that re- visas to Chinese investors if they put $500,000 China’s ruling elite, buys a $16 million pent- quires payday lenders to stop taking advan- into the family’s properties in New Jersey. house in a Trump-owned property. tage of clients who cannot pay off their 5/17 Kushner’s company is subpoenaed by 2/28 Trump, who owns 12 golf courses in the loans. federal prosecutors and the SEC for its pro- U.S., rolls back a rule that limits water pol- 2018 motion of the investment-for-visa program. lution by golf courses. 1/2 A judge rules that Starrett City, a hous- 7/21 CNN finds that even after his family 4/29 Overriding diplomatic concerns, Trump ing complex in Brooklyn that Trump owns a business apologizes for name-dropping invites Philippines president Rodrigo stake in, can be sold to private developers. Kushner at a marketing event in Beijing, it Duterte to the White House. To gain favor The sale is expected to net Trump $14 million highlights his White House role in an online with Trump, Duterte had appointed the after the administration approves it.* sales pitch to Chinese investors. president’s partner on the Trump Tower in 2/21 Mississippi awards $6 million in tax 10/3 Kushner fined $200 for missing a disclo- Manila as his economic envoy to the U.S. breaks to a new Trump-branded hotel. sure deadline. To date, he has been forced to 5/7 The Metals Service Center Institute, FAMILY & FRIENDS change his disclosure form 39 times for fail- which is pushing the Commerce Department ing to mention potential conflicts of inter- for steel tariffs, holds its annual conference ‘‘The company and policy and government est. at Trump’s resort in Miami. are completely separated. We have built an 10/4 ProPublica investigation reveals that 5/16 The Republican Governors Association unbelievable wall in between the two.’’—Eric after Manhattan DA Cyrus Vance dropped a holds a conference at Trump’s golf club in Trump criminal investigation against Donald Jr. Miami, where members strategize with cor- 2016 and Ivanka, their attorney arranged a fund- porate executives over how to persuade the 11/13 While appearing on 60 Minutes to dis- raiser on Vance’s behalf, donating $32,000 new administration to dismantle environ- cuss her father’s election, Ivanka Trump himself and raising at least $9,000 more. mental regulations and enact other business- wears a $10,800 bracelet from her jewelry 11/1 Apollo Global Management lends friendly moves. Trump’s take for the con- company. After the interview, the company Kushner’s real-estate company $184 million— ference: $400,000. sends out a ‘‘style alert’’ promoting the triple the size of its average loan—after 5/19 Trump proposes slashing HUD’s budg- bracelet to reporters. meeting with him in the White House six et—but retains a subsidy that has poured 12/6 Firm founded by Melania Trump’s weeks later, the SEC drops investigation more than $490 million into a housing com- friend and adviser Stephanie Winston into Apollo’s finances. plex in Brooklyn where Trump has a finan- Wolkoff receives $26 million for helping plan 12/3 Kushner is exposed for failing to dis- cial stake. the inauguration. close that his family’s foundation—which he 6/16 Lynne Patton, an event planner and 2017 led for nine years—funded an illegal Israeli friend of the Trump family with no experi- 1/5 Eric Trump jets to Uruguay to check on settlement on the West Bank. Just before ence in housing, is put in charge of the HUD an unfinished Trump condo tower. The trip Trump took office, Kushner tried to sway a region covering New York and New Jersey— costs taxpayers $97,830. U.N. vote against an anti-settlement resolu- giving her a senior position in the agency 2/5 Eric Trump spends $200,000 in taxpayer tion. that disburses federal subsidies to a Brook- money to jet to the Dominican Republic to lyn housing complex from which Trump push for a Trump-branded project. The deal— 2018 made $5 million in 2016. (Patton recused her- which would put Trump’s name on 17 high- 2/20 Donald Jr. tours India to sell Trump- self from matters involving the complex, rises—violates a Dominican height limit for branded homes; several newspapers run an ad after a congressional committee sent a letter new resorts. It also breaks Trump’s vow not promising a ‘‘conversation and dinner’’ with to HUD.)* to seek overseas deals during his presidency. him—for an additional fee of $30,000. 8/2 Activists protest against JPMorgan The Dominican president personally ap- OFFICIALS & THEIR PALS Chase, which lobbied to slash the corporate proves the high-rises. ‘‘Here in the palace, ‘‘We are going to send the special interests tax rate while paying Trump $1.5 million a the president’s thoughts are that this U.S packing.’’—Donald Trump year in rent at one of his office buildings. president is angry and we better not get in 9/19 Report reveals that the Pentagon his way,’’ a former Dominican ambassador 2017 spends $130,000 a month in rent at Trump explains. ‘‘We don’t want to cross him.’’ 1/19 During his confirmation as Treasury Tower—more than twice as much as other 2/6 Melania’s lawyers, suing a British paper secretary, Steven Mnuchin fails to disclose a tenants. for libel, argue its reporting ruined her hedge fund he registered in the Cayman Is- 10/9 Trump International Hotel in Chicago ‘‘once-in-a-lifetime opportunity’’ to mone- lands to avoid paying federal taxes—the very hosts a two-day conference for the manufac- tize her position as First Lady by cashing in thing he is supposed to collect as Treasury turing industry. on ‘‘multi-million-dollar business relation- secretary. 10/10 An insurance-industry trade associa- ships.’’ 1/24 During his confirmation as secretary tion holds its four-day annual conference at 2/9 Kellyanne Conway offers ‘‘free commer- of Health and Human Services, Tom Price Trump’s resort in Miami. cial’’ for Ivanka’s clothing line on Fox News. fails to disclose an insider deal he got on 10/16 GEO Group, the nation’s largest for- ‘‘Go buy it today, everybody.’’ Trump refuses $520,000 in stock in a biotech company. As profit prison company, holds its annual con- to discipline her, defying recommendation of secretary, he will be in a position to approve ference at the Trump National Doral. The his own ethics agency. a drug the company has developed.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:55 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.017 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3363 2/9 Reports reveal that a top White House 1/23 Trump appoints Jeffrey Wood, a lob- 2/18 Dina Powell, who advised Trump on aide, Chris Liddell, participated in meetings byist for a coal polluter, to prosecute envi- foreign policy, returns to Goldman Sachs between Trump and the CEOs of 18 compa- ronmental crimes like coal pollution. only two months after leaving the White nies in which he held large amounts of 2/6 Lauren Maddox, who guided Betsy House. At Goldman, she will focus on ‘‘en- stock—a possible criminal offense. The com- DeVos through her confirmation process for hancing the firm’s relationships’’ with some panies included Lockheed Martin, Walmart, Education secretary, is hired by a for-profit of the same foreign governments she advised JPMorgan Chase, and Dow Chemical. law school to help restore its access to fed- Trump on. 3/16 Congressional investigators reveal that eral student loans. After paying $130,000 in 3/2 Trump nominates Peter Wright, an at- Trump’s former national-security adviser lobbying fees, the school gets its wish: The torney for Dow Chemical, to lead the EPA’s Michael Flynn—who wanted to ‘‘rip up’’ Education Department agrees to reconsider regulation of chemical spills. Dow has 100 American sanctions on Russia—failed to re- its eligiblity for millions in loans. polluted sites that Wright would be in charge port $45,000 in fees he received from the Rus- 2/27 Billionaire Carl Icahn, an unpaid ad- of cleaning up. sian state media outlet RT. viser to Trump, submits a regulatory pro- PETTY GRAFT 4/14 The White House stops releasing logs posal that would raise the value of his in- 2107 of visitors, concealing trips made by lobby- vestment in an oil refinery. During Trump’s 2/28 The State Department spends $15,000 in ists and corporate executives. In Trump’s first six weeks in office, Icahn makes an taxpayer money for the grand opening of a first two months alone, by one estimate, extra $60 million on the deal. Trump hotel in Vancouver, an event at- 4/12 Marcus Peacock, a policy expert in more than 500 executives and foreign leaders tended by Eric, Tiffany, and Donald Jr. made unrecorded visits to the White House. Trump’s budget office, takes a job lobbying 4/14 Trump jets to Mar-a-Lago via Air 6/29 HUD Secretary Ben Carson tours Balti- the budget office for the Business Round- Force One at a cost to taxpayers of $142,380 more—accompanied by prospective business table, which represents zoo of America’s per hour. For years, Trump heckled Presi- associates being courted by his son. One ad- largest corporations. Trump makes no move dent Obama for taking vacations and golfing ministrator on the tour later offers Carson’s to enforce the five-year moratorium he trips at government expense. If elected, he daughter-in-law a contract worth $500,000. vowed to place on such revolving-door vowed, he would ‘‘rarely leave the White 11/5 New reports reveal that during his con- moves. House, because there’s so much work to be firmation hearings, Commerce Secretary 5/19 Trump nominates K. T. McFarland, ad- done.’’ In fact, during his first three months Wilbur Ross failed to disclose that a shipping viser who once siphoned off $14,000 in cam- in office, Trump’s taxpayer-funded flights to firm he owns a stake in has close ties to paign funds for ‘‘personal use,’’ as ambas- his private properties exceeded $20 million— Vladimir Putin’s son-in-law. His new job sador to Singapore. on track to quickly surpass the amount puts him in charge of American trade policy 8/1 A top aide to EPA chief Scott Pruitt, Obama spent on travel during his eight years with Russia. who oversees federal grants worth hundreds in office. Trump made more than 90 visits to 12/18 Under pressure from watchdogs, EPA of millions of dollars, receives permission to his golf courses and played almost twice as chief Scott Pruitt terminates a $120,000 con- work as a consultant for private clients. De- much golf as Obama. His family joined in, re- tract for a firm he has worked with in the spite his influence over public policy, the quiring Secret Service agents to rack up an past to dig up information on EPA staffers identities of his clients will be kept secret. extra 4,054 days of taxpayer-funded travel to 8/15 Two Trump campaign operatives reg- who had criticized him or his policies. keep up. 12/22 ‘‘You all just got a lot richer,’’ Trump ister a new lobbying firm, Turnberry Solu- 5/16 Rick Perry and his staffers take a pri- tells wealthy patrons at Mar-a-Lago hours tions, named after the Scottish town where vate Jet to a small-business forum in Kansas after signing a massive tax giveway to the Trump owns a golf club. Its first client, Elio City, at a cost to taxpayers of $35,000, rather superrich. The bill saved Trump $15 million Motors, hires it to help obtain government than taking a nonstop flight to the airport 45 in taxes and Jared Kushner $12 million. It handouts. minutes away from the event. also enriched much of Trump’s inner circle— 10/17 Whitefish Energy, a Montana firm 6/2 David Shulkin’s chief of staff falsifies including Linda McMahon, Betsy DeVos, that employed the son of Interior Secretary an email to suggest that the VA secretary Steven Mnuchin, and Rex Tillerson. Ryan Zinke, is awarded $300 million in a no- needed to travel to Europe to receive an 2018 bid federal contract to restore storm-bat- award. Shulkin’s 11-day trip with his wife, 1/12 Performant Financial is one of only tered Puerto Rico. most of which was devoted to sightseeing, 10/26 Trump nominates J. Steven Gardner, two companies awarded $400 million in con- cost taxpayers $122,344. a coal-industry consultant, to oversee en- tracts from the Education Department to 6/7 Scott Pruitt, the EPA chief, spends forcement of strip-mining regulations. The collect on defaulted student loans. One nota- $36,000 in taxpayer money to take a military Senate winds up rejecting the nomination. ble former investor in Performant: Edu- plane to New York. 11/8 Kirstjen Nielsen, Trump’s pick to head 6/24 Treasury Secretary Steven Mnuchin cation Secretary Betsy DeVos. the Department of Homeland Security, was 1/31 CDC chief Brenda Fitzgerald is forced marries Louise Linton and requests a mili- guided through her confirmation by a lob- to resign over her purchase of stock in one of tary plane for their honeymoon to Europe— byist whose clients compete for DHS con- the world’s largest tobacco companies. She at a cost to taxpayers of $25,000 per hour. tracts. Privatizing the ‘‘sherpa’’ role in con- bought the shares a month after taking over 6/26 Interior Secretary Ryan Zinke spends firmations—work long performed by govern- the agency tasked with reducing tobacco $12,375 in taxpayer money to fly home aboard ment staffers—opens up a brazen new fron- use. a private flight from Las Vegas, where he 2/1 William Emanuel, a Trump appointee to tier in corruption. The lobbyist, Thad Binge, hung out with a hockey team owned by his the National Labor Relations Board, is in- oversaw the drafting of official policy memos biggest campaign donor. vestigated for a possible ethics violation and was included on emails between the DHS 7/7 Zinke uses $6,250 in taxpayer money for after he votes on a case involving his former and the White House, enabling him to exploit a helicopter flight from Virginia to Wash- law firm. His tie-breaking vote would have internal information for private gain. Among ington, D.C.—a three-hour car ride—for a made it harder for employees at franchises Bingel’s clients is an Israeli defense con- horse-riding date with Mike Pence. like McDonald’s to hold their parent compa- tractor being paid $145 million by DHS to 8/4 HHS Secretary Tom Price takes a pri- nies accountable for labor-law violations, build part of Trump’s ‘‘virtual wall’’ along vate jet at taxpayer expense to St. Simons but the decision is thrown out because of his the Mexican border. Island, an exclusive resort where he owns 12/6 A photographer at the Department of conflict of interest. land. The trip, like many of the 26 flights Energy is fired after leaking a photo that 3/29 ABC News reports that EPA chief Pru- Price took on corporate jets, could have been shows Rick Perry receiving a confidential itt spent much of his first year in Wash- accomplished with a routine commercial ‘‘action plan’’ from a coal magnate in March. ington living in a townhouse co-owned by flight. The plan is a blueprint for the coal-industry the wife of J. Steven Hart, a top energy lob- 8/21 Mnuchin and his wife travel to Ken- bailout that Perry announced in September. byist. Hart lobbied the EPA on several poli- tucky aboard a government plane, at a cost cies last year, including coal regulations and 2018 to taxpayers of $33,000, to watch the solar limits on air pollution. 1/12 Trump gives Kenneth Allen, a former eclipse. 8/30 EPA chief Pruitt spends $43,000 to build LOBBYIST & OTHER SLEAZE mining executive who still profits from coal sales to the Tennessee Valley Authority, a a soundproof phone booth in his office, ena- ‘‘We’re going to end the government cor- seat on the TVA board. bling him to hold secret conversations with ruption, and we’re going to drain the swamp 1/29 Alex Azar, a former lobbyist who lobbyists and corporate executives. The Gov- in Washington, D.C.’’—Donald Trump worked his way up to the presidency of a ernment Accountability Office is inves- 2017 drug company, is sworn in as secretary of tigating whether the move violated agency 1/17 Scott Mason, a key member of Trump’s Health and Human Services. Azar, whose spending rules. transition team, returns to lobbying—one of company hiked the price of insulin and other 9/29 HHS Secretary Price is forced to resign nine transition-team members to violate drugs under his watch, is now in charge of over the nearly $1 million in taxpayer money Trump’s pledge that he would bar such re- making drugs more affordable. he spent taking military planes and private volving-door moves for at least six months. 2/12 Carl Icahn, who served as an unpaid ad- jets, often to visit family and friends. One of Mason’s clients, Peabody Energy, viser to Trump, sells $30 million in steel 2018 later helps dream up a coal-industry bailout stocks just before Trump announces tariffs 2/27 HUD Secretary Ben Carson spends promoted by Energy Secretary Rick Perry. on steel imports. $196,000 on a dinette set and lounge furniture,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:55 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.018 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3364 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 exceeding the $5,000 legal limit for office im- REQUIRING NOTICE FROM SEC- changes to the operations of TACs. provements. RETARY OF THE TREASURY IN Last year, all TACs nationwide moved 3/7 Zinke spends $139,000 to renovate his of- CASE OF A TAXPAYER ASSIST- to an appointment system that dras- fice doors at Interior. ANCE CENTER CLOSURE tically cut down on wait times. Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- H.R. 5440 provides important im- back the balance of my time. er, I move to suspend the rules and provements and transparency for the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- pass the bill (H.R. 5440) to require no- millions of taxpayers who visit TACs bers are reminded to refrain from en- tice from the Secretary of the Treasury every year. This important bill ensures gaging in personalities toward the in the case of any closure of a Tax- that impacted communities are pro- President. payer Assistance Center, as amended. vided at least 90 days notice prior to the closure of a TAC. Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield The Clerk read the title of the bill. Late last year, the TAC in Hunts- myself such time as I may consume. The text of the bill is as follows: H.R. 5440 ville, Alabama, closed suddenly. This Mr. Speaker, while I respect my good closure created problems for taxpayers Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- friend’s right to voice his opinion and I right at the start of filing season. respect the fact that he shared that in- resentatives of the United States of America in formation with us, I am disappointed, Congress assembled, b 1330 SECTION 1. NOTICE FROM IRS REGARDING CLO- however, that he chose this moment to SURE OF TAXPAYER ASSISTANCE Local taxpayers did not know that make those comments. CENTERS. the office had closed, with some driv- This is a bipartisan bill. In fact, last Not later than 90 days before the date that ing 50 miles to the TAC, only to find a week, in the Ways and Means Com- a proposed closure of a Taxpayer Assistance sign on the door directing them to an- mittee, the information and the com- Center would take effect, the Secretary of other office 70 miles away. As you can ments shared by members on both sides the Treasury (or the Secretary’s delegate) imagine, this can be incredibly disrup- shall— tive for all taxpayers, but particularly of the aisle were ideas that were shared (1) make publicly available (including by that were bipartisan in nature. The bill non-electronic means) a notice which— those in rural areas. Fortunately, last was talked about in a positive way, and (A) identifies the Taxpayer Assistance Cen- month, the office recently reopened, al- it was my hope today that we could ter proposed for closure and the date of such beit at significantly reduced hours. have that same congeniality on the proposed closure, and The requisite 90 days’ advance public floor today rather than take a left turn (B) identifies the relevant alternative notice under this bill is required to be into the land of the President’s taxes, sources of taxpayer assistance which may be both through online means, but also because today we are talking about utilized by taxpayers affected by such pro- nonelectronic means as well. This can posed closure, and be accomplished through the use of Americans and the need to protect (2) submit to Congress a written report their identity, and I think that is what that includes— local news or radio, posting notice at Americans want to hear, is how is Con- (A) the information included in the notice the local library, or other methods. gress able to help them today. described in paragraph (1), This notice must provide information So from this side of the aisle today, (B) the reasons for such proposed closure, on alternative ways for taxpayers to Mr. Speaker, we are focused on just and obtain assistance. (C) such other information as the Sec- Today, ensuring the IRS can address that. We are focused on passing H.R. retary may determine appropriate. 4403, the Moving Americans Privacy the needs of taxpayers wherever they Protection Act. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- are is critically important, while the ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from IRS needs flexibility to allocate scarce It is a straightforward, common- Kansas (Ms. JENKINS) and the gen- resources. This bill marks an impor- sense, and once again I will say it, bi- tleman from Illinois (Mr. DANNY K. tant step to providing transparency for partisan, unusual in this day and age, DAVIS) each will control 20 minutes. those impacted. but true in this case. The Chair recognizes the gentle- I would like to thank my colleagues, It puts an end to the inadvertent dis- woman from Kansas. Congresswoman KAREN HANDEL and closure of personally identifiable infor- GENERAL LEAVE Congressman TOM O’HALLERAN, for mation contained on shipment docu- Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- their time and attention on this impor- ments to CBP and holds the agency ac- er, I ask unanimous consent that all tant issue. countable. Members may have 5 legislative days Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The American people want to know within which to revise and extend their my time. that we are doing this kind of work. remarks and include extraneous mate- Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. This is a good piece of legislation rial on H.R. 5440, currently under con- Speaker, I yield myself such time as I that protects their identification, and sideration. may consume. helps the CBP and Congress by giving The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mr. Speaker, as we recognize tax day the language to Congress to hold the objection to the request of the gentle- today, it is fitting that we advance a CBP accountable. woman from Kansas? bill that recognizes Taxpayer Assist- We are committed to providing legis- There was no objection. ance Centers are the primary face of lative solutions that help protect Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- the Internal Revenue Service in local Americans from having their identities er, I yield myself as much time as I communities. stolen, and this bill does just that. may consume. H.R. 5440 was jointly introduced by I urge my colleagues to join us in Mr. Speaker, Taxpayer Assistance Representative KAREN HANDEL from supporting this bipartisan bill. Centers, or TACs, are taxpayer service Georgia and Representative TOM facilities operated by the IRS across O’HALLERAN from Arizona. It simply Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance the country. In 2017, more than 350 TAC requires public and congressional noti- of my time. locations provided face-to-face services fication prior to any closures of these The SPEAKER pro tempore. The to more than 3.2 million taxpayers. critical centers. question is on the motion offered by TACs can assist taxpayers in making Taxpayer Assistance Centers, or the gentleman from Washington (Mr. payments, answering questions about TACs, provide in-person help to tax- REICHERT) that the House suspend the their account, and other services. payers on a wide range of issues, in- rules and pass the bill, H.R. 4403, as These offices provide valuable services cluding making payments, resolving amended. for taxpayers to assist them in ful- questions, and authenticating identity. The question was taken; and (two- filling their tax responsibilities. TAC They are IRS employees who know the thirds being in the affirmative) the employees are often the only face tax- law and provide high-caliber assistance rules were suspended and the bill, as payers see in their routine interactions locally. amended, was passed. with the IRS. In fiscal year 2017, TACs served ap- A motion to reconsider was laid on As the IRS has moved more services proximately 3.2 million taxpayers, the table. online, the agency has made numerous down from 4.3 million served the prior

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.018 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3365 year. Unfortunately, this decline can try will still need to turn to the IRS While the IRS offers virtual help and be tied, in part, to the IRS’ recent for help and for answers about their assistance to taxpayers, the reality is prioritization of online services over taxes. That is why I am here today to that many older Americans and those in-person assistance. This shift is evi- speak in support of H.R. 5440. This bi- with disabilities cannot meaningfully dent in multiple ways: partisan legislation, introduced to- access or utilize such technology. Peo- It is evident in the closure of 30 TACs gether with my colleague from Ari- ple who are honestly trying to comply since 2011, a reduction of over 7 per- zona, Representative O’HALLERAN, with the law should get the help they cent; whom I thank, holds the IRS account- need, face-to-face, on a timely basis. It is evident in the substantial reduc- able for putting its customers, the tax- People in rural counties spend time tion in TAC staffing, a decline of about payers, first. and money to drive hours away to get 30 percent during the same period that IRS Taxpayer Assistance Centers their questions answered at Taxpayer the centers were closed; provide important services to tax- Assistance Centers. That is time away It is evident in the rigid requirement payers. Through over 300 centers across from running their businesses, from of appointment-only assistance, with- the country, millions of Americans re- their jobs, and from their families. out allowing walk-in help, even just to ceive free, personal, in-person tax as- Issues like transportation barriers and pay one’s taxes. Indeed, the Taxpayer sistance each year. childcare often complicate the process. Advocate noted that about 30 percent All too often, however, these centers Our commonsense bill simply affirms of all TACs have either zero or one em- are closed with little to no notice, leav- the taxpayers’ right to quality service ployee, resulting in virtual closures in ing taxpayers to generally fend for by requiring the IRS to notify Congress about 111 sites. themselves. H.R. 5440 requires the IRS and affected communities at least 90 These reductions impose hardships to provide adequate public notice about days before closing down a Taxpayer on local communities and limit tax- any proposed closure and ensures that Assistance Center. payers’ rights to quality service. These impacted taxpayers in that community Providing accessible, quality service reductions in access and the resulting will still have access to assistance. to the people we represent is the most community disruption concern tax- Most of us dread even the thought of basic and important function we have payers as well as Members of Congress. having to deal with the IRS, but today, as Members of Congress. While explor- H.R. 5440 is a commonsense bill that through a package of bipartisan bills, ing innovative ways to expand tech- requires the IRS to provide public no- Congress is moving forward to redesign nology is a smart strategy for Federal tice, including through nonelectronic and restructure the IRS so that its top agencies and one Congress should en- means, 90 days prior to the closure of a priority is putting its customers first. courage, we must make sure in-person Taxpayer Assistance Center. This no- H.R. 5440 is one aspect of these impor- service remains a viable and meaning- tice ensures that affected taxpayers are tant reforms to refocus the IRS. ful option for those Americans who Again, I thank Representative aware of closures as well as informa- need it, especially for the agency that, O’HALLERAN and the entire Ways and tion on alternative forms of assistance arguably, has the greatest direct im- Means Committee for their hard work that is available. Importantly, the Sec- pact over the most people in the coun- on this legislation, and I urge my col- retary of the Treasury must notify leagues to support it. try—the IRS. Congress of the closure and provide the Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. This bill will hold the IRS account- reasons for closing the TAC. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the gen- able for making sure communities im- Face-to-face assistance is a critical tleman from Arizona (Mr. pacted by a Taxpayer Assistance Cen- element of the Internal Revenue Serv- O’HALLERAN), the lead Democratic co- ter closure have adequate notice and ice. Many tax issues cannot be resolved sponsor. are informed sooner about alternative via a website or a brief phone call. Tax- Mr. O’HALLERAN. Mr. Speaker, I sources for assistance. payer Assistance Centers are vital to thank the gentleman for yielding, and I thank Congresswoman HANDEL for our tax system, and I urge my col- I thank him and the chairman of the working with me on this bipartisan leagues to support this commonsense committee for supporting my common- bill, and I urge my colleagues to sup- legislation to ensure public and con- sense bill with the gentlewoman from port its passage. gressional notification prior to any clo- Georgia (Mrs. HANDEL), my colleague. Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- sures of centers. As millions of taxpayers across this er, having no further speakers, I re- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of country prepare to file their returns on serve the balance of my time. my time. time this week, we must ensure they Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- have the resources they need to prop- Speaker, I have no further speakers, er, I yield 5 minutes to the gentle- erly comply with the law. and I yield myself such time as I may woman from Georgia (Mrs. HANDEL), Taxpayer Assistance Centers play a consume. who has provided great leadership on critical role in communities across this As I prepare to close, I want to reit- this bill. country. Over 3 million Americans vis- erate the importance of Taxpayer As- Mrs. HANDEL. Mr. Speaker, as ited one of these centers in fiscal year sistance Centers as the local face of the Americans file their taxes today, it is 2017, many of whom traveled consider- Internal Revenue Service. The Internal the very last time they will do so under able distances to get their questions Revenue Service should be increasing the old, unfair Tax Code. Thanks to the answered face-to-face. Arizona’s five this presence and not limiting it. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, hardworking Taxpayer Assistance Centers help H.R. 5440 is a commonsense bill that Americans are already seeing the bene- thousands of individuals every year. requires the IRS to provide public no- fits of lower tax rates and a stronger Ensuring compliance with a com- tice, including through nonelectronic economic growth: take-home pay has plicated Tax Code can be challenging means, 90 days prior to the closure of a increased; companies are investing in for families. With the new tax law set Taxpayer Assistance Center. This no- infrastructure, R&D, and people, with to substantially change the current tice ensures that affected taxpayers are billions of dollars in bonuses and pay Code, it is more important than ever aware of closures, as well as informa- increases, and even enhanced benefits. for taxpayers to get answers that will tion on alternative forms of assistance The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act also affect their bottom lines. that are available. This notice will help makes our Tax Code less complex and Over the past few years, dozens of communities and taxpayers better an- makes the process of filing out our tax Taxpayer Assistance Centers across the swer their questions and comply with returns easier and less daunting. This Nation have closed as the IRS sought their tax obligations. time next year, in addition to most savings. According to the national Tax- As I have said, this is, indeed, a com- Americans paying less in taxes, most payer Advocate, over 7 percent of these monsense bill. I urge my colleagues to Americans will find that the tax forms centers have been shuttered since 2011. support it, and I yield back the balance are simpler and the process less com- Closing one of these centers, which of my time. plex. often receive walk-in visits, with little Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- Even so, Mr. Speaker, tax day will or no clear public notice is disruptive er, I yield myself such time as I may still come, and people across this coun- and undermines fairness. consume.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.037 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3366 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 I want to again thank Congress- Mr. Speaker, as most of us are aware, Now, I don’t know about you, but woman KAREN HANDEL and Congress- the IRS has the ability to seize and sell when I think of things that are likely man TOM O’HALLERAN for their leader- a taxpayer’s property to satisfy unpaid to go bad, I think of things that we ship on this issue. taxes. produce in my home State of Kansas, H.R. 5440 provides important trans- However, given the profound impact like meat or dairy products. parency regarding closure of TACs to of such a move on the taxpayer’s liveli- As a result, this commonsense bipar- ensure that the public is notified and hood, well-defined safeguards govern tisan bill limits the IRS’ ability to provided with information on how they these seizures. seize and immediately sell a taxpayer’s can get the help they need from the Nonetheless, the Ways and Means property to only cases where the seized IRS. Oversight Subcommittee discovered goods are actually likely to go bad. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance last year that there are ways for the I would like to thank the bill’s spon- of my time. IRS to legally circumvent these pro- sors, Congressman FERGUSON and Con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tections. gressman CROWLEY, for all of their hard question is on the motion offered by While IRS auctions typically require work on this issue. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to the gentlewoman from Kansas (Ms. a 10-day advance notice and the estab- lishment of minimum bid requirements join me in supporting this bipartisan JENKINS) that the House suspend the bill, and I reserve the balance of my rules and pass the bill, H.R. 5440, as to ensure profits sufficient to cover the unpaid taxes, the IRS can forego these time. amended. Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield The question was taken; and (two- requirements by deeming seized goods as perishable. myself such time as I may consume. thirds being in the affirmative) the Under current law, perishable goods Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. rules were suspended and the bill, as are defined as those that are likely to 5446, and I thank Mr. FERGUSON for amended, was passed. go bad, become greatly reduced in price working with our office to bring this A motion to reconsider was laid on or value by keeping, or cannot be kept bill to committee and here to the floor the table. without great expense to the IRS. as well. And I thank the gentlewoman f If the IRS deems the goods seized to from Kansas (Ms. JENKINS) for man- aging the time on this bill. This may b 1345 be perishable, it can sell them on the same day without any minimum bid re- be one of the last things she gets to do RESTRICTING IMMEDIATE SALE quirements. This streamlined process here on the House floor, and I just want OF SEIZED PROPERTY BY SEC- can lead to seized goods being sold for to thank her for her friendship RETARY OF THE TREASURY TO significantly less than a normal auc- throughout the years, as well, and PERISHABLE GOODS tion would allow. working in a bipartisan way with us on H.R. 5446, the bill before us, puts in occasion. Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- Mr. Speaker, as my colleague men- er, I move to suspend the rules and place much-needed safeguards on the same-day seizure and sale of a tax- tioned, this is a targeted bill to address pass the bill (H.R. 5446) to amend the the overzealous enforcement of exist- Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to re- payer’s property. While we are discussing this bill ing law. These changes are needed be- strict the immediate sale of seized cause, as Mr. FERGUSON will point out property by the Secretary of the Treas- today, I would like to talk a little bit about the Oversight Subcommittee’s as well, we have found ourselves in an ury to perishable goods, as amended. environment where small-business findings that led us to this point. The Clerk read the title of the bill. owners have seen their property and The text of the bill is as follows: Last year, the subcommittee first be- came aware of this issue after local products taken and sold within 24 H.R. 5446 news reports from Dallas, Texas, hours. Take, for example, as was mentioned Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- brought to light the 2015 seizure of a resentatives of the United States of America in by Ms. JENKINS, the 2015 IRS raid of bridal shop, including dresses and sew- Congress assembled, Mii’s Bridal and Tuxedo shop in Gar- ing machines. SECTION 1. RULES FOR SEIZURE AND SALE OF land, Texas. Claiming the owners owed These goods were then sold imme- PERISHABLE GOODS RESTRICTED back taxes, the IRS agents seized diately at auction within hours of their TO ONLY PERISHABLE GOODS. $17,000 in cash and $650,000 in wedding (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 6336 of the Inter- seizure. This left the owners with no dresses and equipment, like sewing ma- nal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by means of earning an income going for- striking ‘‘or become greatly reduced in price chines. The agents then immediately ward, while not fully satisfying their auctioned off those items, even though or value by keeping, or that such property tax debts. cannot be kept without great expense’’. their tax dispute was not settled and Now, common sense would tell us has not been contested. (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment that this sale was not in the best inter- made by this section shall apply to property The agency argued the expedited pro- seized after the date of the enactment of this est of the couple, whose livelihood was cedures were needed because they said Act. ruined, or the IRS, who did not fully the dresses, as was mentioned, were The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- collect the amount owed. perishable goods. These were not or- Further investigation by the sub- ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from anges or grapefruits, they were not ap- committee also found that there were Kansas (Ms. JENKINS) and the gen- ples or eggs, they were dresses. at least eight other instances of small tleman from New York (Mr. CROWLEY) By invoking the word ‘‘perishable,’’ businesses being liquidated using the each will control 20 minutes. the IRS didn’t have to post advance perishable goods designation in the The Chair recognizes the gentle- public notice of the auction or wait at past few years. woman from Kansas. least 10 days for sunlight to come in In only two of the cases did there ap- before selling the goods, as is normally GENERAL LEAVE pear to be any foods offered as part of required. Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- the sale. To say this is wrong is an understate- er, I ask unanimous consent that all The subcommittee concluded that ment. Clothing, as we all know, is not Members may have 5 legislative days while the IRS’ use of this authority is really perishable. It will decay over within which to revise and extend their limited, when it is used, the goods sold time and when it is worn, but left to its remarks and include extraneous mate- under this designation are typically own, it doesn’t decay. It is not perish- rial on H.R. 5446, currently under con- the contents of a small business and able. sideration. are almost never in danger of imme- And destroying an immigrant-owned The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there diately going bad. business—an immigrant-owned busi- objection to the request of the gentle- To give you an idea of what I am ness—within hours, that took decades woman from Kansas? talking about, the IRS designated to build, should never have happened in There was no objection. things such as sporting goods, artwork, the first place. Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- scrapbooking materials, automotive How the IRS used civil asset for- er, I yield myself such time as I may supplies, and workout equipment as feiture in this case goes against a bed- consume. perishable. rock principle of our country, of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.038 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3367 United States—the principle of due Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I yield nukkah break. That was the only goal, process. myself such time as I may consume. so that my Republican colleagues could In this case, the IRS acted without Mr. Speaker, once again, let me say they had achieved something, even proper notice and outside the intent of thank Mr. FERGUSON, as well as Ms. if it was ill conceived and passed with the law. They seized property and sold JENKINS, for bringing this bill to the rushed judgment. it without knowing its true cost or its floor. And now we know about all the prob- value. I don’t want anyone who may be lems with the bill and all the fixes that Civil asset forfeiture is a tool that watching this on C–SPAN and may be have to take place; things that maybe the IRS and other law enforcement just waking up, turning on the tele- could have been worked out had there agencies use to go after ill-gotten funds vision, and looking at the incredible bi- been a more open process and more de- from human traffickers, terrorists, and partisanship that is happening here liberative process and the inclusion of other serious criminal activity. today to think they died and have gone Democrats in that process. Just Sometimes it is a necessary mecha- to bipartisan heaven. maybe. nism. I think we all recognize that. But Although much of the work that we So I don’t want anyone, again, to be only when used correctly and fairly. are doing today is bipartisan in nature, watching C–SPAN or maybe turning on Seizing the goods of a small immi- it really is drastically different than the news tonight and learning about all grant-owned business and selling them the way in which the Committee on the bipartisanship that is happening immediately at auction under the false Ways and Means has conducted busi- here on the House floor—and it is good; premise that they were perishable ness in the most recent past in connec- these are good bills that we are work- goods is a clear example of how the law tion with the passage of the Republican ing on together—and say: Did I die and should not be used. tax bill. Democrats have called that a something happened? Has the world Passage of this measure will ensure tax scam bill. been righted? Am I missing something? that abuses like this never happen It had absolutely no input from the I want them to know: No. You are again. I urge swift passage of this bill Democratic side of the aisle, certainly not missing anything. to help us take at least some steps to here in the House of Representatives, b 1400 address the abusive flaws in the civil in the committee, or here on the floor. asset forfeiture procedure and give at That tax scam bill did pass, and it Not reflective of any of the Democratic least this one company some modicum did go toward helping the wealthiest 1 principles or values in that bill and its of justice. percent and the richest multinational Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of passage. corporations in the history of the And as much as we are working in a my time. world, and the little guy is not getting Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- very bipartisan way, this is not a re- very much at all. That is still the case. er, I yield 5 minutes to the gentleman flection of my good friend Ms. JENKINS, That hasn’t changed. And it is sad, but from Georgia (Mr. FERGUSON), one of but more a reflection, I think, of the it is true. the leaders on this issue. leadership of the Republican Con- I, once again, want to thank the gen- Mr. FERGUSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise ference in ramming a bill through the tlewoman for her efforts in bringing today in support of H.R. 5446. This com- committee without proper hearings. this bipartisan bill to the floor. But let monsense legislation makes a targeted Not having a single Democratic amend- it be known that this is more of an ab- but important reform to protect Amer- ment in that process spoke very ill of erration and not the norm in terms of ican small businesses by ensuring that the process itself. how the committee has been con- the rules for seizure of perishable goods Nobody cares about how sausage gets ducting business, nor has the House of are restricted only to goods that are, in made. We know that. Nobody cares how Representatives been conducting busi- fact, perishable. legislation gets made. Nobody cares ness in the most recent past. The fact that we are having to even about how sausage gets made until Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance comment or debate on the fact that a they taste it and it doesn’t taste good. of my time. small business in Texas was destroyed And I think that is what is happening Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- by the actions of an IRS agent that de- right now with the American people. er, I yield myself such time as I may termined that bridal dresses were per- This tax bill is falling flat on its face. consume. ishable is unconscionable, and it should This tax scam bill is falling flat on its Mr. Speaker, I want to again thank not happen, and it should not have hap- face because it is not helping the peo- Congressman DREW FERGUSON and Con- pened then; and I agree with my col- ple it was purported to be helping in gressman JOE CROWLEY for their lead- ership on this issue. league from New York that it should the first place. The greatest bait-and- H.R. 5446 further strengthens the never happen again, and this legisla- switch probably in the history of our country went on in terms of what the safeguards in place to ensure that tion will help ensure that. goods being sold immediately are lim- Now, I don’t think we have to explain President talked about, the people he was going to help, the middle class and ited to those that are likely to go bad. to anybody that, since these bridal Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance hardworking people, and instead it all gowns are not perishable, why is this of my time. bill even necessary? But it is a shame basically went to the wealthiest 1 per- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The that we have had agents use this par- cent and the wealthiest multinational question is on the motion offered by ticular piece of legislation to actually corporations in the history of man- the gentlewoman from Kansas (Ms. kind. leave a family destitute because of JENKINS) that the House suspend the their actions of selling bridal dresses They got permanent tax relief, and rules and pass the bill, H.R. 5446, as under the guise that they were perish- the middle class and working men and amended. able. women in this country got bupkis. All The question was taken; and (two- This legislation tightens up the law right? And the reality is they know thirds being in the affirmative) the to eliminate the language that the IRS what happened here. They know that 83 rules were suspended and the bill, as agents in Dallas and others across the percent of that bill went to the amended, was passed. country have used to justify their over- wealthiest 1 percent and 17 percent to A motion to reconsider was laid on reaching use of same-day sale provi- working men and women and working the table. sions. H.R. 5446 makes an important poor people. f step to prevent the IRS from redefining That is just obscene. That is not re- these words to suit their own purposes, flective of who we are as a nation or as ALLOWING OFFICERS AND EM- threatening the livelihoods of Amer- a country or as a people, yet that is PLOYEES OF DEPARTMENT OF ican small businesses. what happened, and in no small part THE TREASURY TO PROVIDE Mr. Speaker, I am proud to sponsor because it was done in such a partisan TAXPAYERS INFORMATION RE- this legislation to strength protections way. The bill had not a single hearing GARDING LOW-INCOME TAX- for small businesses and job creators, within the committee and was brought PAYER CLINICS and I encourage my colleagues to vote to the floor all to meet a deadline of Mr. HOLDING. Mr. Speaker, I move ‘‘yes’’ and do the same. passing it before the Christmas and Ha- to suspend the rules and pass the bill

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.042 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3368 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 (H.R. 5438) to amend the Internal Rev- tutions, and services are provided for Again, Mr. Speaker, I hope all of our enue Code of 1986 to allow officers and free or for a very small fee. colleagues will support our bill, and I employees of the Department of the My district in North Carolina is yield back the balance of my time. Treasury to provide to taxpayers infor- served by one of the clinics that is op- Mr. HOLDING. Mr. Speaker, I yield mation regarding low-income taxpayer erated by North Carolina Central Uni- myself such time as I may consume. clinics, as amended. versity School of Law, a fine institu- Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague The Clerk read the title of the bill. tion just to the west of my house. for his support, and I urge all Members The text of the bill is as follows: North Carolina Central’s motto is: of the House to support this common- H.R. 5438 ‘‘Truth and Service.’’ And this clinic sense legislation. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- allows individuals to come and get tax Mr. Speaker, the IRS is long overdue resentatives of the United States of America in assistance from law school students for an update, and today’s bills mark a Congress assembled, who work under the supervision of the significant step in providing a reform SECTION 1. PROVISION OF INFORMATION RE- staff attorney there at the law school. GARDING LOW-INCOME TAXPAYER that the agency needs and the Amer- I appreciate the hard work that those ican people deserve. CLINICS. volunteers are doing in my community. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7526(c) of the In- This legislation before us today Late last year, House and Senate Re- ternal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by publicans ushered through a new and adding at the end the following new para- would allow the IRS to notify our var- ious constituents of these clinics and improved Tax Code which allows indi- graph: viduals to keep more of their hard- ‘‘(6) PROVISION OF INFORMATION REGARDING their services. These clinics play an earned tax dollars. Along with the new QUALIFIED LOW-INCOME TAXPAYER CLINICS.— important role by helping taxpayers, Notwithstanding any other provision of law, and I am pleased to see this legislation Tax Code, we need a new and improved officers and employees of the Department of move forward and see the help that it IRS. The multiple bills we are taking the Treasury may— will give to our constituents by mak- up today accomplish that goal to some ‘‘(A) advise taxpayers of the availability ing them aware of the tools available degree. of, and eligibility requirements for receiving, The taxpayer needs to come first. I advice and assistance from qualified low-in- in their own communities. This is a practical proposal that will improve am glad that Republicans and Demo- come taxpayer clinics receiving funding crats in the Ways and Means Com- under this section, and taxpayers experience with the IRS. ‘‘(B) provide information regarding the lo- Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank mittee have come together to work and cation of, and contact information for, such Congressman LEWIS from Georgia, my make this a reality. clinics.’’. colleague on the Ways and Means Com- The bills before the House today are (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment mittee, my friend, for partnering with centered on improving the made by this section shall take effect on the me on this bill. This bill was approved functionality and the taxpayers experi- date of the enactment of this Act. with unanimous bipartisan support by ence with the IRS. From directing the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- the House Ways and Means Committee, IRS to develop a customer service ant to the rule, the gentleman from and I urge my colleagues in the House strategy, to codifying the Free File North Carolina (Mr. HOLDING) and the to support this legislation. program, we are reforming the IRS gentleman from Georgia (Mr. LEWIS) Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of into an agency that works for the each will control 20 minutes. my time. American people. The Chair recognizes the gentleman Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, It puts the American people first. from North Carolina. I yield myself such time as I may con- These bills will improve the ease and GENERAL LEAVE sume. efficiency of filing taxes and retrieving Mr. HOLDING. Mr. Speaker, I ask Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support information. unanimous consent that all Members of H.R. 5438. And I am proud to join my We also established an independent have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- friend, the gentleman from North Caro- Office of Appeals to ensure that tax- tend their remarks and include extra- lina (Mr. HOLDING), in sponsoring this payers receive a fair and impartial re- neous material on H.R. 5438, currently bill. Our bill is very simple. It helps view of any disputes that may arise. under consideration. taxpayers receive the support and guid- But most of all, we guarantee that cus- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ance they need. tomer service goals are set by the IRS objection to the request of the gen- Low income taxpayer clinics offer a and that we assure the IRS is account- tleman from North Carolina? free, low-cost service for taxpayers able for meeting them. There was no objection. across our country. These clinics help That is not all. Mr. Speaker, in to- Mr. HOLDING. Mr. Speaker, I yield taxpayers resolve disputes with the day’s world, the value of privacy can- myself such time as I may consume. IRS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support H.R. 5438 would allow the IRS to not be understated. The IRS continues of H.R. 5438, and encourage my col- share information about low income to face serious cyber threats that are leagues to back this commonsense bill. taxpayer clinics for those who might be becoming more and more advanced. It Mr. Speaker, this is a short and eligible. is necessary that the IRS stay ahead of sweet bill. It allows the IRS employees Last December, the Oversight Sub- these threats. to provide taxpayers with information committee held a hearing on the tax- Mr. Speaker, today we are faced with on low income taxpayer clinics. Spe- payers experience. It was one of many an incredible opportunity to modernize cifically, IRS employees would be per- bipartisan meetings to improve tax ad- the IRS and put the American taxpayer mitted to provide program details, in- ministration. During the hearing, we first. So I urge my colleagues to sup- cluding the eligibility requirements to heard testimony from Ms. Tameka R. port this bill, H.R. 5438, and other bills receive assistance from a low income Lester. Ms. Lester serves as the social that are before the House. taxpayer clinic, also where the centers director of the Philip C. Cook Low-In- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance are located, and how to contact them. come Taxpayer Clinic at the Georgia of my time. As many of my colleagues know, the State University College of Law. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. low income taxpayer clinic program This outstanding institution is lo- DUNCAN of Tennessee). The question is provides matching grants to organiza- cated in my congressional district. Ms. on the motion offered by the gen- tions that assist low-income taxpayers Lester and other witnesses shared their tleman from North Carolina (Mr. HOLD- as well as those who speak English as a experiences and offered many great ING) that the House suspend the rules second language. These clinics pri- suggestions. and pass the bill, H.R. 5438, as amend- marily work with taxpayers on dispute H.R. 5438 responds to one of the many ed. resolution issues with the IRS. They issues raised in our discussion. Going The question was taken; and (two- provide representation for audits, ap- forward, I hope that our committee and thirds being in the affirmative) the peals, collection matters, and Federal the full House of Representatives will rules were suspended and the bill, as tax litigation. continue to develop bipartisan re- amended, was passed. These clinics are operated by non- sponses to their concerns and sugges- A motion to reconsider was laid on profit organizations or academic insti- tions. the table.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.045 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3369 REQUIRING SECRETARY OF THE steal a taxpayer’s Social Security num- this program has helped protect tax- TREASURY TO ESTABLISH A ber; you file a fraudulent return in payers and reduce fraudulent returns. PROGRAM FOR THE ISSUANCE their name; and then you collect the The number of tax returns with con- OF IDENTITY PROTECTION PER- refund. firmed identity theft dropped 32 per- SONAL IDENTIFICATION NUM- While this is a tremendous theft of cent from 2016 to 2017, alone, and 57 BERS taxpayer dollars, it is also a nightmare percent during the 2015 to 2017 period. Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I move for victims who then have to work to Yet tax identity thieves are still claim- to suspend the rules and pass the bill clear their name with multiple govern- ing millions of dollars in fraudulently (H.R. 5437) to require the Secretary of ment agencies and wait longer to re- obtained refunds. the Treasury to establish a program for ceive their own tax refund. By broadening the IP PIN program to the issuance of identity protection per- Our seniors, in particular, are very all taxpayers instead of only making it sonal identification numbers, as vulnerable to identity theft, as they available to identity theft victims and amended. then have to struggle to navigate a bu- individuals in pilot project States, we The Clerk read the title of the bill. reaucratic maze to clear their name can be proactive about keeping tax- The text of the bill is as follows: and then file an authentic return. payers’ personal information and hard- H.R. 5437 There is one tool available though to earned dollars safe, and we can make Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- some taxpayers that makes this scam a further progress in reducing the in- resentatives of the United States of America in lot harder to pull this off. It is called stances of fraud during filing season. Congress assembled, an identity protection PIN, or an IP While we can and must do more to SECTION 1. IDENTITY PROTECTION PERSONAL PIN. It is a 6-digit number that is outwit cybercriminals and perpetrators IDENTIFICATION NUMBERS. issued by the IRS to help the IRS then of fraud, this program is a no-brainer Not later than 5 years after the date of the authenticate a tax return and validate that gives a better level of protection enactment of this Act, the Secretary of the the identity of the person who is filing than exists today. I look forward to Treasury or the Secretary’s delegate (here- it. seeing this instituted for all of our con- after referred to in this section as the ‘‘Sec- stituents and hope we can build on this retary’’) shall establish a program to issue, b 1415 progress to bring additional security upon the request of any individual, a number Today, IP PINs are available only in which may be used in connection with such measures and 21st century technology individual’s social security number (or other a couple of States and the District of improvements to the IRS. identifying information with respect to such Columbia, as well as to certain tax- Mr. Speaker, in closing, again, this is individual as determined by the Secretary) payers who might be at high risk of a straightforward and simple bill that to assist the Secretary in verifying such in- identity theft. will protect taxpayers across the coun- dividual’s identity. This legislation today which we are try, and I urge my colleagues to sup- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- taking up would expand this program port it. ant to the rule, the gentleman from by giving all taxpayers access and the Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Minnesota (Mr. PAULSEN) and the gen- option of signing up for an IP PIN over of my time. tlewoman from Washington (Ms. the course of the next 5 years as they Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield DELBENE) each will control 20 minutes. phase this in. This will give all tax- myself such time as I may consume. The Chair recognizes the gentleman payers peace of mind by allowing them Mr. Speaker, as a reminder, next from Minnesota. to proactively protect their own iden- year, taxpayers will enjoy a very sim- GENERAL LEAVE tity from tax scammers, and it will plified and streamlined tax filing proc- Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I ask save taxpayer dollars by preventing ess that allows all hardworking Ameri- unanimous consent that all Members fraud that puts refunds into the wrong cans to keep more of their own hard- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- hands. earned dollars. However, there is still a tend their remarks and to include ex- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to lot that needs to be done to help pro- traneous material on H.R. 5437, cur- join us in supporting this bipartisan tect taxpayers by cracking down on rently under consideration. bill, and I reserve the balance of my identity theft, which is becoming more The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there time. and more prevalent. This is a very objection to the request of the gen- Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Speaker, I yield commonsense, straightforward bill tleman from Minnesota? myself such time as I may consume. that will help tackle identity theft. There was no objection. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. I want to thank not only Chairman Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5437, and I want to thank my colleague, BRADY for his leadership on some of the myself such time as I may consume. Mr. PAULSEN, for all of his work to help IRS reform efforts, but also my col- Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. advance this important measure. This league Congresswoman DELBENE for 5437, legislation that I am coauthoring is a pretty straightforward bill with a partnering up on this issue as well. with my colleague, Congresswoman straightforward mission: protecting It is very common sense; it is bipar- DELBENE from Washington State, that taxpayers from tax identity theft and tisan. By giving taxpayers who are at will tackle identity theft. fraud. risk of identity theft the opportunity Each year the IRS processes over 240 I am sure everyone is familiar with a to request that PIN number, it will million tax returns and issues more scheme that some enterprising crimi- allow them to make sure that their tax than $400 billion in refunds. This makes nals came up with to file fraudulent return is safe, secure, and authentic. tax season a prime target for identity tax returns so that they could collect Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance thieves who steal billions of dollars money that didn’t belong to them. I am of my time. from hardworking taxpayers by filing sure it is safe to say constituents in Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker. I rise false returns. It is all too common. every one of our districts went to file in strong support of H.R. 5437. More than 1.8 million people, includ- their taxes only to find that they had This bill addresses one of the most popular ing more than 13,000 Minnesotans were been filed already, and someone else issues raised during our Subcommittee’s com- victims of tax identify theft in 2015, had claimed their return and their ment period. and in just the first 2 months of 2016, identity. H.R. 5437 is very simple. It would require the filing season, the IRS identified In response, the IRS instituted a the Treasury Secretary to establish a program more than 31,000 fraudulent returns smart, commonsense program to assign that would issue identity protection personal with thousands more surely slipping PIN numbers to affected taxpayers, identification numbers (IP PINs) to taxpayers. through the cracks. without which they could not file their An IP PIN helps prevent tax-related identity A Government Accountability Office taxes. These six-digit numbers would theft and tax refund fraud. The IRS currently report last year found that scammers be reassigned each year, and electronic makes IP PINs available to a limited group of attempted to claim $14.5 billion in returns would not be accepted without taxpayers. If an IP PIN is not included for this fraudulent tax returns in the 2015 tax them. group, the IRS system will automatically reject season alone. For a criminal, the scam According to the American Coalition an electronically filed tax return. It is an addi- is simple and straightforward. You for Taxpayer Rights, it appears that tional layer of protection for these taxpayers.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.048 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3370 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 H.R. 5437 would expand this program. This The Chair recognizes the gentleman People thought: Wow, you had to go bipartisan bill would require the IRS to make from Ohio. through the same process trying to get an IP PIN available to any and all taxpayers. GENERAL LEAVE through to the IRS? It does not matter where they live or work; Mr. RENACCI. Mr. Speaker, I ask I said: Yes, I did. I had to reexplain every taxpayer will be able to request an IP unanimous consent that all Members my story every time I called. PIN. may have 5 legislative days within This commonsense legislation will I would like to thank our colleagues—the which to revise and extend their re- simply require the IRS to establish a Gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. PAULSEN) and marks and include extraneous material single point of contact at the IRS for the Gentlewoman from Washington (Ms. on H.R. 5439, currently under consider- taxpayers who have been impacted by DELBENE) for their good work and support of ation. identity theft. This will help everyday this bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Americans who have had to deal with Mr. Speaker, I urge all of our colleagues to objection to the request of the gen- the stress and inconvenience of having support H.R. 5437. tleman from Ohio? their identity stolen get the service The SPEAKER pro tempore. The There was no objection. they deserve from the IRS. question is on the motion offered by Mr. RENACCI. Mr. Speaker, I yield I thank Chairman BRADY, Ranking the gentleman from Minnesota (Mr. myself such time as I may consume. Member NEAL, and the Ways and Means PAULSEN) that the House suspend the Mr. Speaker, I believe that modern- Committee staff for moving this legis- rules and pass the bill, H.R. 5437, as izing the IRS’ ability to administer our lation forward, and I encourage my col- amended. Tax Code is a critical next step fol- leagues to support its final passage. The question was taken; and (two- lowing the passage of the Tax Cuts and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of thirds being in the affirmative) the Jobs Act. I am pleased that today we my time. rules were suspended and the bill, as are considering H.R. 5439, which cre- Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, amended, was passed. ates a single point of contact at the I yield myself such time as I may con- A motion to reconsider was laid on IRS for identity theft victims. sume. the table. I introduced this legislation with my Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support f good friend, Representative JOHN of H.R. 5439. I believe that this is one of PROVIDING FOR A SINGLE POINT LEWIS. He and I have worked tirelessly my favorite bills. OF CONTACT FOR TAX-RELATED over the last few years to protect the Mr. Speaker, I am very proud to join IDENTITY THEFT VICTIMS identity of taxpayers, having intro- my friend, the gentleman from Ohio duced legislation that has passed the (Mr. RENACCI), in introducing this com- Mr. RENACCI. Mr. Speaker, I move House and was signed into law in 2015 monsense bill, and I want to thank the to suspend the rules and pass the bill that took steps to help reduce identity gentleman for it. (H.R. 5439) to provide for a single point theft. The gentleman from Ohio and I share of contact at the Internal Revenue I was proud to reintroduce with him a passion and a commitment to this Service for the taxpayers who are vic- this Congress the Stolen Identity Re- issue. Two years ago we introduced the tims of tax-related identity theft, as fund Fraud Prevention Act that has Stolen Identity Fraud Prevention Act. amended. nearly 20 bipartisan cosponsors and We both believe that taxpayers should The Clerk read the title of the bill. which included the provision that we receive the help and support that they The text of the bill is as follows: are considering today. need and deserve, and I am proud to H.R. 5439 Identity theft has become a growing join him again today in sponsoring this Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- concern in Ohio and across the United bill. resentatives of the United States of America in States. Unfortunately, it seems as if In recent years, I also included this Congress assembled, there is now constant news of individ- commonsense policy in the Ways and SECTION 1. SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT FOR TAX- RELATED IDENTITY THEFT VICTIMS. uals having their identities stolen due Means Oversight Subcommittee Demo- (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of the to massive data breaches. It is one of cratic bill, the Taxpayer Protection Treasury (or the Secretary’s delegate) shall the most costly crimes to consumers Act. establish and implement procedures to en- and businesses, and it is the fastest H.R. 5439 responds to a frequent, on- sure that any taxpayer whose return has growing white-collar crime in America going concern of many of our citizens. been delayed or otherwise adversely affected according to the Federal Trade Com- This bill will help ease the frustration due to tax-related identity theft has a single mission. that victims of tax-related identity point of contact at the Internal Revenue As many of my colleagues on the theft feel, and it addresses a top IRS Service throughout the processing of the taxpayer’s case. The single point of contact Ways and Means Committee have casework issue in my congressional shall track the taxpayer’s case to completion heard, I, myself, was also the victim of district. and coordinate with other Internal Revenue identity theft not too long ago. I un- H.R. 5439 establishes a single point of Service employees to resolve case issues as derstand the frustration, fear, and contact within the Internal Revenue quickly as possible. sense of helplessness that many feel Service for any taxpayer who is the (b) SINGLE POINT OF CONTACT.— when learning that a criminal has sto- victim of identity theft. As a result of (1) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of subsection len their identity. this bill, the taxpayer will not need to (a), the single point of contact shall consist In 2016, a criminal stole my personal start again from scratch every time of a team or subset of specially trained em- ployees who— information and filed a return with my they try to get an update on their case. (A) have the ability to work across func- name, my wife’s name, our Social Se- Instead, the single point of contact tions to resolve the issues involved in the curity numbers, and other personal in- would work with other IRS units to taxpayer’s case, and formation. The thieves even had a W–2 solve the taxpayer issue as quickly as (B) shall be accountable for handling the from the U.S. Congress that contained possible. case until its resolution. a fake version of my information. I This good, commonsense bill will (2) TEAM OR SUBSET.—The employees in- didn’t learn about this fraud until I re- help taxpayers across our country. For cluded within the team or subset described ceived an IRS notice questioning a re- these reasons, Mr. Speaker, I urge all in paragraph (1) may change as required to meet the needs of the Internal Revenue Serv- turn I had filed—even though I had not of our colleagues to support H.R. 5439. ice, provided that procedures have been es- yet filed. Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like tablished to— Each year, thousands of families try- to urge my colleagues to support this (A) ensure continuity of records and case ing to resolve this same sort of head- bill, and I yield back the balance of my history, and ache have to prove to the Federal Gov- time. (B) notify the taxpayer when appropriate. ernment that they are who they say Mr. RENACCI. Mr. Speaker, I yield The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- they are. That included me, right along myself such time as I may consume. ant to the rule, the gentleman from with everyone else, creating this tre- Mr. Speaker, this commonsense leg- Ohio (Mr. RENACCI) and the gentleman mendous call volume the IRS receives islation is a strong step forward in en- from Georgia (Mr. LEWIS) each will on a given day. I had to go through suring that the American people re- control 20 minutes. that same process. ceive the customer service that they

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.020 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3371 deserve from the IRS should they have mines the application of the amendments I said: ‘‘That’s right, George, we their identity stolen. made by subsection (a) would cause undue are.’’ Along with my personal story, I have burden without a delay, the Secretary may He said: ‘‘Well, Grandpa, this is the heard from countless constituents and delay the application of such amendments, 50th anniversary.’’ but not later than taxable years beginning 2 I said: ‘‘Yes, George, it is.’’ Ohioans who have been frustrated by years after the date of the enactment of this the hoops that they often need to jump Act. He said: ‘‘Well, can we come back for through to get their identity theft con- (ii) SMALL ORGANIZATION.—For purposes of the 100th anniversary?’’ cerns addressed, all the while dealing clause (i), the term ‘‘small organization’’ I said: ‘‘George, we will do that to- with the fear and anxiety of having means any organization— gether. You and I will come across the their identity stolen. This bipartisan (I) the gross receipts of which for the tax- bridge at the 100th anniversary.’’ legislation will provide relief by requir- able year are less than $200,000, and He said: ‘‘Grandpa, how old are you ing a single point of contact within the (II) the aggregate gross assets of which at right now?’’ the end of the taxable year are less than IRS for victims of identity theft. I said: ‘‘Well, George, I am 65.’’ $500,000. He said: ‘‘Grandpa, it may be hard for Again, I want to thank my colleague (B) ORGANIZATIONS FILING FORM 990–T.—In from Georgia (Mr. LEWIS) for his sup- the case of any organization described in sec- you to get across that bridge.’’ port. tion 511(a)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code of I said: ‘‘Georgie, don’t worry. If I Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to 1986 which is subject to the tax imposed by can’t walk, you can push me across.’’ support this legislation, and I yield section 511(a)(1) of such Code on its unrelated That was a great weekend for George. back the balance of my time. business taxable income, or any organization And for Mr. LEWIS, I have always felt The SPEAKER pro tempore. The required to file a return under section 6033 of he is such an iconic figure in this such Code and include information under House for people who stood up for civil question is on the motion offered by subsection (e) thereof, the Secretary may the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. RENACCI) rights. That weekend was one of the delay the application of the amendments most gracious weekends and best week- that the House suspend the rules and made by this section, but not later than tax- pass the bill, H.R. 5439, as amended. able years beginning 2 years after the date of ends with my son my grandson had. So The question was taken; and (two- the enactment of this Act. I can’t tell you how much I appreciate thirds being in the affirmative) the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- being with you on the floor today. rules were suspended and the bill, as ant to the rule, the gentleman from When it comes to charity, the Amer- amended, was passed. Pennsylvania (Mr. KELLY) and the gen- ican people are truly unique. In fact, A motion to reconsider was laid on tleman from Georgia (Mr. LEWIS) each Americans are the most generous in the table. will control 20 minutes. the world according to the new Alma- The Chair recognizes the gentleman nac of American Philanthropy. In a f from Pennsylvania. first-of-its-kind survey, the almanac REQUIRING ELECTRONIC FILING GENERAL LEAVE found that Americans out-donate Brit- OF ANNUAL RETURNS OF EX- Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. ain and Canada 2-to-1 and nations like EMPT ORGANIZATIONS Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that Italy and Germany 20-to-1. What is more, more than half of almost every Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. all Members may have 5 legislative single income level in America donates Speaker, I move to suspend the rules days within which to revise and extend to charity. That is remarkable, and it and pass the bill (H.R. 5443) to amend their remarks and to include extra- makes me proud to be an American and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to re- neous material on H.R. 5443, currently proud of our Nation’s history of philan- quire electronic filing of the annual re- under consideration. thropy. turns of exempt organizations and pro- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there In its earliest form, the word ‘‘phi- vide for making such returns available objection to the request of the gen- lanthropy’’ comes from the Greek term for public inspection, as amended. tleman from Pennsylvania? There was no objection. ‘‘philanthropia,’’ which simply meant The Clerk read the title of the bill. Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. ‘‘love of mankind.’’ The meaning has The text of the bill is as follows: Speaker, I yield myself such time as I evolved over time, but, from the ear- H.R. 5443 may consume. liest days of human civilization, we Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong have depended upon kindness directed resentatives of the United States of America in support of H.R. 5443. This bill, in short, towards strangers and others. We de- Congress assembled, would ensure that all nonprofits file fine ‘‘philanthropy’’ today as the prac- SECTION 1. MANDATORY ELECTRONIC FILING their tax forms electronically so that FOR ANNUAL RETURNS OF EXEMPT tice of organized, systematic giving to ORGANIZATIONS. the charitable community can better improve the quality of human life (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 6033 of the Inter- assist those in need. through the promotion of welfare and nal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by re- First, I want to thank Congress- social change. designating subsection (n) as subsection (o) woman STEPHANIE MURPHY today for Throughout every age, American phi- and by inserting after subsection (m) the fol- cosponsoring this important legislation lanthropists have demonstrated the lowing new subsection: with me. power of giving to create great and ‘‘(n) MANDATORY ELECTRONIC FILING.—Any This provision is identical to one meaningful change. In my own congres- organization required to file a return under that my colleague on the Ways and sional district in western Pennsyl- this section shall file such return in elec- Means Committee, Congressman BLU- vania, we have many wonderful organi- tronic form.’’. MENAUER, and I introduced in a larger zations that demonstrate the power of (b) INSPECTION OF ELECTRONICALLY FILED tax package, the CHARITY Act, along ANNUAL RETURNS.—Section 6104(b) of such giving each and every day. In Erie, with Senators THUNE and CASEY on the Code is amended by adding at the end the Pennsylvania, we have The Erie Com- Senate Finance Committee in 2017. following: ‘‘Any annual return required to be munity Foundation, the United Way of filed electronically under section 6033(n) b 1430 Erie, and the Black Family Founda- shall be made available by the Secretary to tion. the public in machine readable format.’’. Before I discuss this bill in greater (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.— detail, I want to look across the room As a businessman and leader in the (1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in to my great friend, Mr. JOHN LEWIS. It energy sector, Pat Black and his fam- paragraph (2), the amendments made by this was in 2015 that Mr. LEWIS and I ily started a small, private foundation section shall apply to returns filed for tax- crossed the Edmund Pettus Bridge. It in 1993. Here is one individual who took able years beginning after the date of the en- was at that time that Mr. LEWIS it upon himself to create a charitable actment of this Act. stopped and spent some time with my organization to give back to his com- (2) TRANSITIONAL RELIEF.— grandson George. And as we were walk- munity. And we have many other good (A) SMALL ORGANIZATIONS.— ing across the bridge, George, who was corporate citizens in Erie, as well, such (i) IN GENERAL.—In the case of any small organizations, or any other organizations for 8 at the time, said: ‘‘Grandpa, we are as Erie Insurance. More than half a which the Secretary of the Treasury or the actually going to do this. We are going century ago, Erie Insurance’s founder, Secretary’s delegate (hereafter referred to in to go across the Edmund Pettus Bridge H.O. Hirt, had a lifelong concern for this paragraph as the ‘‘Secretary’’) deter- with Mr. LEWIS.’’ others who were less fortunate, and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.052 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3372 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 today Erie Insurance and its employees ber of scam nonprofits out of all 50 eral and State filing requirements ap- follow Mr. Hirt’s example and continue States. This is because of the Michigan plicable to charitable organizations, on this tradition of giving of food and attorney general’s ability to manipu- which these organizations spend con- clothing and other drives that help out late and analyze researchable data. siderable time, money, and resources in the community. This bipartisan bill would help ex- complying every year. This would en- And since it is tax filing week, all pose these shams nationally by ensur- able genuine tax-exempt organizations these charitable organizations must ing nonprofits are e-filing annual re- to focus more on their charitable mis- file their tax forms, called 990s, which turns. Therefore, I urge my colleagues sion, whether that is helping wounded brings us back to why we are here on both sides to support this important warriors, sponsoring cancer research, today on the floor considering H.R. good-government, antifraud bill. assisting victims of gun violence, or 5443. Our bill would make it mandatory Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of other notable causes. that 990s be filed electronically going my time. I would note that, in its letter of sup- forward. Electronic filing, or e-filing, is Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, port for this legislation, NASCO states not only more efficient; it costs tax- I yield myself such time as I may con- that having electronic data for all form payers less and the IRS less to admin- sume. 990 filers, as this bill mandates, would ister. This requirement will boost Mr. Speaker, let me just thank my ensure that the States have the ability transparency in the tax-exempt sector friend and colleague from Pennsyl- to identify and stop fraudulent activity by requiring all nonprofits to file their vania for those kind words. Say hello that harms charities and donors more returns electronically. to your grandson George. quickly and effectively. NASCO further Today, approximately 60 percent of Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support states that the bill could result in re- all 990s are filed electronically, but the of H.R. 5443. Let me begin by thanking turning to charitable organizations sig- remaining 40 percent are still paper the gentleman from Pennsylvania and nificant resources that these organiza- filed and not released as open data. In the gentlewoman from Florida for their tions must currently devote to compli- ance with unnecessary government fil- addition to requiring e-filing of the 990 work on this good and necessary bill. Mr. Speaker, I hope all of our col- ing requirements. form be mandatory for tax-exempt or- leagues will support this simple bill, In closing, I respectfully ask my col- ganizations, the bill would make such and I reserve the balance of my time. leagues in this Chamber to support the returns available to the public in a ma- Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. bill, and I urge my colleagues in the chine-readable format. Speaker, having no other speakers, I Senate to quickly follow suit. So why is this important? Better 990 reserve the balance of my time. Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. information, when searchable and Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Speaker, I reserve the balance of my available to the public, allows for bet- I yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman time. ter scrutiny and better transparency. from Florida (Mrs. MURPHY), the lead Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Jacob Harold, president of GuideStar, Democratic cosponsor. I have no further speakers and am pre- which collects and disseminates infor- Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Speak- pared to close. mation from nonprofits’ returns, says: er, I am proud to be the lead Democrat Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- ‘‘The more easily people can access on this bipartisan bill which would pro- leagues to support this bill, and I yield that data, the better.’’ vide government officials with the back the balance of my time. A readable, searchable format that timely information they need to pre- Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. will help improve efficiency and accu- vent and punish fraud in connection Speaker, in closing, I yield myself such racy and reduce fraud, e-filing has with charitable solicitations and the time as I may consume. Yes, it is true, Americans are a chari- served as a highly effective tool in ex- use of charitable assets. posing scam charities, and it will make I want to thank my colleague and table group. In fact, we are the most it easier to catch these few bad actors colead from Pennsylvania, Congress- generous people in the world. Our Na- tion’s history of philanthropy, char- who are using tax donations for per- man MIKE KELLY, for his leadership on ities, and loving people are the envy of sonal gain only. this issue. I also want to thank the the world. In 2016 alone, Americans For example, in 2015, the Federal chairman, ranking member, and the gave $390 billion, with 63 million Amer- Trade Commission, the District of Co- members of the Ways and Means Com- icans, 25 percent of the adult popu- lumbia, and all 50 States filed a lawsuit mittee which unanimously approved lation, volunteering their time, their against four scam cancer charities call- this bill last week. talent, their energy, and their dollars ing themselves the Cancer Fund. Their Our bill would require charities to to make a difference. owners had used over 95 percent of the annually file Internal Revenue Service $187 million in charitable donations for As a recent commentator noted, form 990, the form used by tax-exempt Americans have it in their DNA to be their own personal benefit. This law- organizations, in electronic as opposed suit took almost 4 years because of the philanthropic. Of all the countries, we to paper format. It would also require are the most generous. Because I know difficulty of analyzing thousands and the IRS to make these electronic fil- thousands of pages of data that were my colleagues have it in their DNA to ings available to the public in ma- support our Nation’s unique philan- filed on paper. chine-readable format. Our legislation Our bill will correct that. Hundreds thropic history and charitable commu- has been endorsed by the National As- nity, I urge them to vote in favor of of millions of dollars from generous sociation of State Charity Officials, or Americans were wasted because their this important legislation. NASCO, which is an association of Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance donations were going to a fraudster State agencies that oversees charitable of my time. and not helping researchers to find a organizations. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The cure for cancer. To take money away The purpose of our bill is threefold: question is on the motion offered by from cancer patients is just plain First, it would help law enforcement the gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. wrong and immoral. Our bill wants to agencies and government regulators KELLY) that the House suspend the make sure this doesn’t happen in the identify, shut down, and prosecute rules and pass the bill, H.R. 5443, as future. fraudulent charitable organizations amended. Now, how would that happen? that use financial contributions for The question was taken; and (two- Changes could be brought sooner their personal benefit rather than to thirds being in the affirmative) the against these scam charities, in less help those in need. rules were suspended and the bill, as than 1 year instead of 4, if the return Second, it would protect American amended, was passed. information had been available elec- taxpayers who make generous dona- A motion to reconsider was laid on tronically. There are countless exam- tions to charitable organizations and the table. ples that prove that this can be the deserve to feel a sense of security that f case. The State of Michigan is a great their hard-earned money is being used model for just how valuable access to for its intended purpose. RECESS machine-readable data is. To date, And third, it would help reduce the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Michigan has shut down the most num- often excessive and overlapping Fed- ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.055 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3373 declares the House in recess subject to ‘‘(C) other ordinary and necessary costs as- ‘‘(iv) agrees to provide documentation to the call of the Chair. sociated with the program. substantiate any matching funds provided Accordingly (at 2 o’clock and 42 min- Indirect expenses, including general over- pursuant to the grant program under this utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. head of any entity administering the pro- section. gram, shall not be counted as matching ‘‘(B) ELIGIBLE ORGANIZATION.—The term ‘el- f funds. igible organization’ means— ‘‘(i) an institution of higher education b 1600 ‘‘(c) APPLICATION.— ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Each applicant for a which is described in section 102 (other than AFTER RECESS grant under this section shall submit an ap- subsection (a)(1)(C) thereof) of the Higher plication to the Secretary at such time, in Education Act of 1965 (20 U.S.C. 1002), as in The recess having expired, the House effect on the date of the enactment of this was called to order by the Speaker pro such manner, and containing such informa- tion as the Secretary may reasonably re- section, and which has not been disqualified tempore (Mrs. LOVE) at 4 p.m. quire. from participating in a program under title IV of such Act, f ‘‘(2) PRIORITY.—In awarding grants under ‘‘(ii) an organization described in section MAKING PERMANENT VOLUNTEER this section, the Secretary shall give pri- ority to applications which demonstrate— 501(c) and exempt from tax under section 501(a), INCOME TAX ASSISTANCE ‘‘(A) assistance to low-income taxpayers, ‘‘(iii) a local government agency, includ- MATCHING GRANT PROGRAM with emphasis on outreach to, and services ing— for, such taxpayers, Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Madam ‘‘(I) a county or municipal government ‘‘(B) taxpayer outreach and educational ac- Speaker, I move to suspend the rules agency, and tivities relating to eligibility and avail- and pass the bill (H.R. 2901) to amend ‘‘(II) an Indian tribe, as defined in section ability of income supports available through 4(13) of the Native American Housing Assist- the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to this title, including the earned income tax ance and Self-Determination Act of 1996 (25 make permanent Volunteer Income credit, and U.S.C. 4103(13)), including any tribally des- Tax Assistance matching grant pro- ‘‘(C) specific outreach and focus on one or ignated housing entity (as defined in section gram, as amended. more underserved populations. 4(22) of such Act (25 U.S.C. 4103(22))), tribal The Clerk read the title of the bill. ‘‘(3) AMOUNTS TAKEN INTO ACCOUNT.—In de- subsidiary, subdivision, or other wholly The text of the bill is as follows: termining matching grants under this sec- owned tribal entity, tion, the Secretary shall only take into ac- H.R. 2901 ‘‘(iv) a local, State, regional, or national count amounts provided by the qualified re- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- coalition (with one lead organization which turn preparation program for expenses de- meets the eligibility requirements of clause resentatives of the United States of America in scribed in subsection (b). Congress assembled, (i), (ii), or (iii) acting as the applicant orga- ‘‘(d) PROGRAM ADHERENCE.— nization), or SECTION 1. RETURN PREPARATION PROGRAMS ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall es- ‘‘(v) in the case of low-income taxpayers FOR LOW-INCOME TAXPAYERS. tablish procedures for, and shall conduct not and members of underserved populations (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 77 of the Internal less frequently than once every 5 calendar with respect to which no organizations de- Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by inserting years during which a qualified return prepa- scribed in the preceding clauses are avail- after section 7526 the following new section: ration program is operating under a grant able— ‘‘SEC. 7526A. RETURN PREPARATION PROGRAMS under this section, periodic site visits— ‘‘(I) a State government agency, or FOR LOW-INCOME TAXPAYERS. ‘‘(A) to ensure the program is carrying out ‘‘(II) an office providing Cooperative Ex- ‘‘(a) ESTABLISHMENT OF VOLUNTEER INCOME the purposes of this section, and tension services (as established at the land- TAX ASSISTANCE MATCHING GRANT PRO- ‘‘(B) to determine whether the program grant colleges and universities under the GRAM.—The Secretary shall establish a Com- meets such program adherence standards as Smith-Lever Act of May 8, 1914). munity Volunteer Income Tax Assistance the Secretary shall by regulation or other ‘‘(3) LOW-INCOME TAXPAYERS.—The term Matching Grant Program under which the guidance prescribe. ‘low-income taxpayer’ means a taxpayer Secretary may, subject to the availability of ‘‘(2) ADDITIONAL REQUIREMENTS FOR GRANT whose income for the taxable year does not appropriated funds, make grants to provide RECIPIENTS NOT MEETING PROGRAM ADHERENCE exceed an amount equal to the completed matching funds for the development, expan- STANDARDS.—In the case of any qualified re- phaseout amount under section 32(b) for a sion, or continuation of qualified return turn preparation program which— married couple filing a joint return with 3 or preparation programs assisting low-income ‘‘(A) is awarded a grant under this section, more qualifying children, as determined in a taxpayers and members of underserved popu- and revenue procedure or other published guid- lations. ‘‘(B) is subsequently determined— ance. ‘‘(b) USE OF FUNDS.— ‘‘(i) not to meet the program adherence ‘‘(4) UNDERSERVED POPULATION.—The term ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Qualified return prepara- standards described in paragraph (1)(B), or ‘underserved population’ includes popu- tion programs may use grants received under ‘‘(ii) not to be otherwise carrying out the lations of persons with disabilities, persons this section for— purposes of this section, with limited English proficiency, Native ‘‘(A) ordinary and necessary costs associ- such program shall not be eligible for any Americans, individuals living in rural areas, ated with program operation in accordance additional grants under this section unless members of the Armed Forces and their with cost principles under the applicable Of- such program provides sufficient documenta- spouses, and the elderly. fice of Management and Budget circular, in- tion of corrective measures established to ‘‘(f) SPECIAL RULES AND LIMITATIONS.— cluding— address any such deficiencies determined. ‘‘(1) DURATION OF GRANTS.—Upon applica- ‘‘(i) wages or salaries of persons coordi- ‘‘(e) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this sec- tion of a qualified return preparation pro- nating the activities of the program, tion— gram, the Secretary is authorized to award a ‘‘(ii) developing training materials, con- ‘‘(1) QUALIFIED RETURN PREPARATION PRO- multi-year grant not to exceed 3 years. ducting training, and performing quality re- GRAM.—The term ‘qualified return prepara- ‘‘(2) AGGREGATE LIMITATION.—Unless other- views of the returns prepared under the pro- tion program’ means any program— wise provided by specific appropriation, the gram, ‘‘(A) which provides assistance to individ- Secretary shall not allocate more than ‘‘(iii) equipment purchases, and uals, not less than 90 percent of whom are $30,000,000 per fiscal year (exclusive of costs ‘‘(iv) vehicle-related expenses associated low-income taxpayers, in preparing and fil- of administering the program) to grants with remote or rural tax preparation serv- ing Federal income tax returns, under this section. ices, ‘‘(B) which is administered by a qualified ‘‘(g) PROMOTION OF PROGRAMS.— ‘‘(B) outreach and educational activities entity, ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall pro- described in subsection (c)(2)(B), and ‘‘(C) in which all volunteers who assist in mote tax preparation through qualified re- ‘‘(C) services related to financial education the preparation of Federal income tax re- turn preparation programs through the use and capability, asset development, and the turns meet the training requirements pre- of mass communications and other means. establishment of savings accounts in connec- scribed by the Secretary, and ‘‘(2) PROVISION OF INFORMATION REGARDING tion with tax return preparation. ‘‘(D) which uses a quality review process QUALIFIED RETURN PREPARATION PROGRAMS.— ‘‘(2) REQUIREMENT OF MATCHING FUNDS.—A which reviews 100 percent of all returns. The Secretary may provide taxpayers infor- qualified return preparation program must ‘‘(2) QUALIFIED ENTITY.— mation regarding qualified return prepara- provide matching funds on a dollar-for-dollar ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘qualified en- tion programs receiving grants under this basis for all grants provided under this sec- tity’ means any entity which— section. tion. Matching funds may include— ‘‘(i) is an eligible organization, ‘‘(3) VITA GRANTEE REFERRAL.—Qualified ‘‘(A) the salary (including fringe benefits) ‘‘(ii) is in compliance with Federal tax fil- return preparation programs receiving a of individuals performing services for the ing and payment requirements, grant under this section are encouraged, in program, ‘‘(iii) is not debarred or suspended from appropriate cases, to— ‘‘(B) the cost of equipment used in the pro- Federal contracts, grants, or cooperative ‘‘(A) advise taxpayers of the availability gram, and agreements, and of, and eligibility requirements for receiving,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.057 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3374 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 advice and assistance from qualified low-in- among the highest accuracy rates of all more, especially in States like Illinois, come taxpayer clinics receiving funding preparers. affected by the SALT limitation. VITA under section 7526, and This program has enjoyed strong sup- services are top-notch. The Internal ‘‘(B) provide information regarding the lo- port in the past, regardless of adminis- Revenue Service reported that VITA cation of, and contact information for, such clinics.’’. tration or the party in the majority. preparers have a 94 percent accuracy (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of H.R. 2901 would permanently authorize rate nationally on returns claiming the sections for chapter 77 of such Code is the VITA grant program while ensur- earned income tax credit. amended by inserting after the item relating ing that VITA preparers continue to Further, VITA services make a real to section 7526 the following new item: maintain their high-accuracy rates. difference for individuals and families. ‘‘Sec. 7526A. Return preparation programs I want to thank Representative VITA sites are skilled at ensuring that for low-income taxpayers.’’. DANNY DAVIS for partnering with me on taxpayers get all of the tax benefits for The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- this legislation. I am appreciative of which they are eligible. These savings, ant to the rule, the gentleman from the work and leadership Chairman coupled with the savings of hundreds of Florida (Mr. CURBELO) and the gen- BRADY and Subcommittee Chairwoman dollars in tax preparation costs, put tleman from Illinois (Mr. DANNY K. LYNN JENKINS, as well as the staff of more money in my constituents’ pock- DAVIS) each will control 20 minutes. the Oversight Subcommittee and the ets to cover the essential costs like The Chair recognizes the gentleman other House Committees on Ways and rent, groceries, and medical care. from Florida. Means staff for their efforts on this im- H.R. 2901 makes important changes GENERAL LEAVE portant legislation. to the VITA program. For example, in Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Madam Madam Speaker, this will help some addition to permanently authorizing Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that of the most vulnerable people in our VITA, the bill allows the Secretary to all Members have 5 legislative days to country, people who want to comply fund the VITA grants up to $30 million. revise and extend their remarks and in- with the Tax Code. It will make sure We have fully exhausted the recent ap- clude extraneous material on H.R. 2901, that individuals who are eligible for propriations of $15 million. The IRS es- currently under consideration. certain benefits under the Tax Code are timates that 70 percent of Americans The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there able to obtain them. are eligible to file their taxes for free. objection to the request of the gen- In short, this will improve quality of Given the high demand and need, tleman from Florida? life for lower- and middle-income peo- H.R. 2901 recognizes that the IRS There was no objection. ple in our country, especially in my should put taxpayers first by giving Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Madam south Florida district. them access to high-quality free serv- Speaker, I yield myself such time as I I encourage all of my colleagues to ices, doubling our Federal investment may consume. vote in favor of H.R. 2901, the Volun- via this quality matching grant pro- Madam Speaker, I rise in strong sup- teer Income Tax Assistance Perma- gram. port of H.R. 2901, the Volunteer Income nence Act, and support the VITA pro- Madam Speaker, I want to acknowl- Tax Assistance Permanence Act, that I gram, which helps our constituents file edge and recognize the wonderful VITA am grateful to see brought before the their taxes confidently and accurately. sites in Chicago—the Center for Eco- House today. Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- nomic Progress, City-Wide Tax Assist- The Volunteer Income Tax Assist- ance of my time. ance Program via Ladder Up, and I am ance program is a matching grant pro- Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. especially pleased that the United Way gram administered by the IRS where Madam Speaker, I yield myself such of Metropolitan Chicago helps cham- the Federal Government partners with time as I may consume. pion this program in my hometown. the local community to provide free Madam Speaker, as we recognize tax As these programs do, many VITA professional tax preparation services to day today, I applaud this body for ad- sites provide additional programs to in- individuals with an annual income of vancing H.R. 2901, the Volunteer In- crease financial stability for families, less than $54,000 and for those with a come Tax Assistance Permanence Act. and I am grateful for their presence in limited proficiency in English. I want to thank my colleague and Chicago and other places throughout Today, April 17, is tax day, the dead- commend him for his leadership in the country. line for filing returns. As Americans all bringing this legislation to the floor. It Madam Speaker, I also want to thank across the country work to complete has been good working with the gen- Ranking Members NEAL and LEWIS, their returns, we are reminded of the tleman from Florida (Mr. CURBELO), Chairmen BRADY and JENKINS, Sen- dangers associated with tax return pre- and I look forward to continuing to do ators BROWN and HELLER, former Rep- parer fraud. Filing your return can be so. resentative Mike Honda, former Rep- confusing, and unscrupulous preparers This crucial program provides high- resentative Xavier Becerra, the United seek to take advantage of this confu- quality tax assistance to hardworking Way, and Prosperity Now for their sion for their own profit. families to help those who can benefit leadership in providing the permanence They bring in business by promising from a program that is designed to of this program. larger refunds, refunds they are able to help. And as I know people are struggling obtain by claiming inflated expenses, The Volunteer Income Tax Assist- and running trying to get there fast be- false deductions, or unreliable credits ance program, or VITA, offers free tax fore the deadline expires to file their on their clients’ returns. Some fraudu- services to people who make less than returns, I am glad to know that those lent preparers even siphon off refunds 250 percent of the poverty level, and to who needed it were able to get help. to their own accounts. However, when underserved taxpayers, including per- Madam Speaker, I urge support for the IRS detects the false return, it is sons with disabilities, the elderly, and this program, and I reserve the balance the taxpayer, and not the return pre- limited-English speakers. of my time. parer, who is then liable for any addi- It is a prime example of smart Fed- Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Madam tional taxes and/or penalties. eral investment because each Federal Speaker, having no other speakers, I Unfortunately, it is low-income and dollar is matched by the private sector. am prepared to close, and I reserve the underserved populations, such as those The demand for VITA services is great. balance of my time. with limited English, who are the pri- The number of tax returns prepared by Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. mary targets of fraudulent preparers. the VITA program doubled between Madam Speaker, I yield myself such It is a threat that my district in south 2014 and 2016. In 2016, VITA grantees time as I may consume. Florida is all too familiar with. filed more than 3.8 million returns, Again, I want to thank my colleague, Thankfully, the VITA program al- helping families claim about $1.1 bil- the gentleman from Florida (Mr. lows taxpayers to fill out and submit lion in earned tax benefits. In Illinois, CURBELO), for his tremendous leader- their returns accurately without the over 23,000 returns were filed for almost ship on this issue. If one talks to some- fear of being scammed—all free of $32 million in refunds. one who has used this service to convey charge. The VITA preparers are IRS With the new tax law, these high-cal- their earnest sense of relief and grati- certified, and at 94 percent, have iber, in-person services are needed even tude for something that is called

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP7.012 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3375 ‘‘free,’’ they save not only the cost of Madam Speaker, I encourage all my marks and include extraneous material paying a tax preparer, but they also colleagues to support this legislation, on H.R. 1512, which is currently under know that they have got all of the ben- and I yield back the balance of my consideration. efits for which they were entitled. time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there I represent thousands of low-income The SPEAKER pro tempore. The objection to the request of the gen- taxpayers, and the earned income tax- question is on the motion offered by tleman from Texas? payer credit that they are able to get the gentleman from Florida (Mr. There was no objection. oftentimes lights up their life when it CURBELO) that the House suspend the Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I is time to file. Some of them are able rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2901, as yield myself such time as I may con- to get benefits that they didn’t think amended. sume. they were going to have, and so they The question was taken; and (two- Madam Speaker, the history of this give a real bit of thanks to those who thirds being in the affirmative) the legislation begins in my district in Southlake, Texas. A constituent of helped them prepare and to know. rules were suspended and the bill, as mine called my office very distraught There are many adviser volunteers amended, was passed. that her mail had been stolen, and with and I want to thank them—individuals A motion to reconsider was laid on it, her newborn baby’s Social Security who give of their time, their energy, the table. card and number. A week later, a felon their knowledge, their expertise, and f their effort to make sure that low-in- with an extensive history of forgery, come taxpayers are provided all of the SOCIAL SECURITY CHILD credit card abuse, and identity theft assistance that they need. PROTECTION ACT OF 2018 was apprehended, and in his possession Madam Speaker, I am pleased to Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I was the Social Security card of my have had the opportunity to work on move to suspend the rules and pass the newborn constituent. The child’s mother, rightfully so, was this bill, and I urge all of my col- bill (H.R. 1512) to amend title II of the very concerned that her 6-month-old leagues to support it. Social Security Act to provide for the I yield back the balance of my time. child’s identity had been compromised, reissuance of Social Security account and I requested on her behalf that the Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Madam numbers to young children in cases Speaker, I yield myself such time as I Social Security Administration issue where confidentiality has been com- the child a new Social Security card. may consume. promised, as amended. Madam Speaker, I want to first We thought that would be an easy The Clerk read the title of the bill. thing to do. The request was denied. thank my colleague, the gentleman The text of the bill is as follows: from Illinois (Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS), for My staff and my district office took H.R. 1512 his hard work on this bill. Dr. DAVIS is it on themselves to get the law someone who has committed his career Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- changed and asked me would I consider to Americans who are struggling the resentatives of the United States of America in introducing a bill to do that. So today, Congress assembled, most, and he is willing to work with we are here to try to protect a group of SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. anyone in this Congress who wants to the most vulnerable of our Social Secu- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Social Security help our communities get ahead, espe- rity cardholders. Child Protection Act of 2018’’. Members of this Chamber know So- cially those who are struggling and SEC. 2. REISSUANCE OF SOCIAL SECURITY AC- who most need our help. It has been a cial Security numbers have become an COUNT NUMBERS TO YOUNG CHIL- increasingly valuable target for iden- true honor to collaborate with him on DREN IN CASES WHERE CONFIDEN- tity theft due to their widespread use this legislation. TIALITY HAS BEEN COMPROMISED. Madam Speaker, I want to remind (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 205(c)(2)(B) of the throughout the financial sector. Madam Speaker, children like my my colleagues once again what the Social Security Act (42 U.S.C. 405(c)(2)(B)) is amended— constituent are particularly vulnerable VITA program is all about. (1) by redesignating clause (iii) as clause (iv); Every tax filing season, unscrupulous to Social Security number theft be- and cause usually, before the age of 13, they preparers try to take advantage of un- (2) by inserting after clause (ii) the following derserved populations by filing fraudu- do not work, they do not drive, they do new clause: not try to get credit cards, and they lent returns on their behalf. ‘‘(iii) In any case in which a Social Security don’t try to establish credit, which b 1615 account number has been issued to a child who has not attained the age of 14 pursuant to sub- would extend the time a thief can use The taxpayer and not the preparer is clause (IV) or (V) of clause (i) and it is dem- that child’s identity before the theft is then liable for the fraudulent return. onstrated by evidence, as determined by the even noticed. This happens way too often, Madam Commissioner of Social Security, and submitted Current policy does little to protect Speaker, in south Florida and through- under penalty of perjury to the Commissioner by children whose Social Security cards out the country. a parent or guardian of the child that in the and numbers have been stolen. I believe The VITA program goes a long way course of transmission of the social security card H.R. 1512 is the answer to this problem. to the child, the confidentiality of such number to mitigate the threat preparer fraud has been compromised by reason of theft of such This bill requires that the Social Secu- poses to vulnerable communities by social security card, the Commissioner shall rity Administration issue a new Social providing free tax preparation services issue a new Social Security account number to Security number for a child age 13 and administered by IRS-certified pre- such child and make note in the records main- under when a child’s Social Security parers. tained with respect to such child of the perti- card has been stolen and the child’s Taxpayers who just want to comply nent information received by the Commissioner parent or guardian demonstrates to the with the Tax Code should not have to regarding the theft of the social security card.’’. Commissioner of the Social Security fear additional taxes or penalties be- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made Administration under penalty of per- cause of a fraudulently repaired return. by subsection (a) shall take effect on the date that is 180 days after the date of the enactment jury that it was stolen while being The VITA program gives these tax- of this Act. transmitted by Social Security to the payers a place to go where they can child’s address, that is, by U.S. mail. rest assured their tax returns will be The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- This bill is a commonsense solution. filed accurately and at no cost. ant to the rule, the gentleman from We need to combat identity theft. I en- I encourage my colleagues to join me Texas (Mr. MARCHANT) and the gen- courage all Members to vote today to in supporting this commonsense pro- tleman from Illinois (Mr. DANNY K. protect our constituents, especially our gram and vote to permanently reau- DAVIS) each will control 20 minutes. most vulnerable. thorize the VITA grant program. The Chair recognizes the gentleman I thank my fellow Texan, LLOYD DOG- I want to thank, Madam Speaker, so from Texas. GETT, for cosponsoring the bill and many volunteers at the United Way, at GENERAL LEAVE helping me introduce the bill. I urge branches in South Dade, who every tax Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I my colleagues to join us in supporting season help hundreds and hundreds of ask unanimous consent that all Mem- this bipartisan bill. lower and middle-income Americans bers may have 5 legislative days within I would also like to thank, Madam get through this difficult process. which to revise and extend their re- Speaker, my district staff who worked

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They are really kind Madam Speaker, I yield myself such Speaker, while this bill will help child of a blank canvas. They don’t work, time as I may consume. victims of identity theft, the fact is and they don’t establish credit. This al- I am pleased to rise in support of that it still doesn’t fix the real prob- lows theft and fraud to go undetected H.R. 1512, the Social Security Child lem. for many years in some cases. Protection Act, which was introduced The real problem is that we use So- By the time that they are young ENNY jointly by Representatives K cial Security numbers to both identify adults, they could unknowingly be bur- MARCHANT and LLOYD DOGGETT, both of and authenticate people. It just doesn’t ied in debt and face delays in very im- Texas. I note that my colleague, Mr. make sense, but we have been doing portant steps in their education, in JOHNSON, is also in the House. This this for decades, and I think it is time their work, in getting their first job, in means that Texas is serious about chil- to put a stop to it. getting that driver’s license or apply- dren and protecting them. This bipar- When Social Security created Social ing for a student loan. tisan legislation would protect children Security numbers back in 1936, they in cases where their Social Security were designed for a limited purpose: to I salute Mr. MARCHANT for seeing card is stolen from the mail. track earnings and administer Social that this is a problem. I am pleased to Most parents apply for a Social Secu- Security benefits for hardworking join him and my colleague, Mr. DAVIS, rity number for their child soon after Americans. Back then, there wasn’t from Chicago in supporting this meas- the baby is born. They can do this eas- much thought about keeping your ure. ily and securely right in the hospital. number secret. But as we all know, Children and their parents or their The Social Security Administration that has changed since these numbers guardians acting on their behalf de- then assigns a number to the child and are used for everything from getting serve a streamlined process that will mails the card to the child’s family. credit to enrolling kids in school. allow for a child to be issued a new So- Unfortunately, sometimes these let- Madam Speaker, H.R. 1512, the Social cial Security number long before any ters do not reach their intended des- Security Child Protection Act, is a step misuse occurs. tination. They can be stolen from the in the right direction, and I urge all mail. In fact, the Social Security num- Members to support it. b 1630 bers of children are highly valued by I also want to take this opportunity identity thieves. Fraudsters can wreak to begin a serious conversation about No child should have to wait for the havoc, creating an extensive record of the future of Social Security numbers inevitable harm to come along and bad debt and fraud associated with a and how we use them. I invite Members have their identity stolen before action child’s number. to join me. The American people de- occurs. Building on the success that we Currently, Social Security will issue serve no less. have had with seniors, and I hope in a a new number to anyone, child or Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. much more prompt fashion than we adult, who can show that their number Madam Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to were able to do it for seniors, we now, through Mr. MARCHANT’s efforts, are has been misused and that they have the gentleman from Texas (Mr. DOG- working to ensure, once again on a bi- been harmed. However, in the case of a GETT). child, sometimes years go by before the Mr. DOGGETT. Madam Speaker, the partisan basis, that we provide the family learns that a child’s number has Social Security number really is a key same kind of protection for infants and been used for fraud. to identity theft, and thieves have had children from baseless identity thieves. Under the bill, the Social Security a field day with these Social Security Madam Speaker, I urge adoption of Administration would issue a child a numbers and the identity theft and the the legislation. new Social Security number if their invasion of privacy that occurs. Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. card is stolen from the mail. The fam- A full 10 years ago, I authored a Madam Speaker, I have no further ily would no longer have to prove that measure here in the House to remove speakers, and I will close. harm has occurred before the child can this information from the Medicare I am pleased to note that H.R. 1512 be issued a new number. card. The next session, finally in 2010, and other bills before us today take im- Madam Speaker, this is a common- we were able to pass that through the portant steps to decrease identity sense measure, and I want to commend House with the help of Representative theft. I know that identity theft is one Mr. MARCHANT for thinking it up, JOHNSON. It was a bipartisan initiative. of the top issues that the Chicago Tax- thinking of it and responding to a need Then the Senate didn’t pass it. payer Advocate addresses. Helping pre- that was expressed to him by one of his When Republicans took over control vent identity fraud and helping tax- constituents. It is a great measure. I of the House, Mr. JOHNSON appro- payers deal with identity theft are im- am pleased to support it, and I urge all priately took the lead on that legisla- portant improvements. of my colleagues to support it. tion, and he worked at it for a while, Madam Speaker, I urge passage of Madam Speaker, I reserve the bal- and, finally, in 2015, he got it passed to this bill, and I yield back the balance ance of my time. remove the Social Security number of my time. Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I from the Medicare card. Mr. MARCHANT. Madam Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman from As Representative JOHNSON knows, yield myself such time as I may con- Plano, Texas (Mr. SAM JOHNSON), who finally, now, 10 years from when we sume. is the chairman of the Social Security started in June of this year, it looks Subcommittee. like seniors will begin getting their I would like to say thank you to my Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Madam Medicare cards without the Social Se- colleagues on the committee who have Speaker, I thank my fellow Texans, curity number on it, to protect their worked on this bill, and especially Con- Mr. MARCHANT and Mr. DOGGETT, for privacy and to avoid the exploitation gressman DOGGETT, who has helped introducing this commonsense bill. that has occurred. every step of the way. Children who have had their Social To his credit, Mr. MARCHANT has H.R. 1512 is a very commonsense so- Security cards stolen from the mail be- identified another group of very vul- lution that is supported by the Asso- fore it even gets to them deserve a new nerable individuals: children. Carnegie ciation of Mature American Citizens Social Security number. This helps Mellon did a study that reported that and the AARP. these youngest victims of identity nearly 10 percent of America’s children Madam Speaker, I include in the theft start out with a clean slate. It is have had their identity already stolen, RECORD their letters of support.

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ASSOCIATION OF MATURE An individual’s Social Security number is SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. AMERICAN CITIZENS, critical financial information and integral to This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Protecting Chil- Washington, DC, March 17, 2017. everyone’s personal identity. Many parents dren from Identity Theft Act’’. Hon. KENNY MARCHANT, apply for Social Security numbers for their SEC. 2. REDUCING IDENTITY FRAUD. 24th District, Texas, children soon after birth. Social Security (a) PURPOSE.—The purpose of this section is Washington, DC. numbers for all family members are used for to reduce the prevalence of synthetic identity Hon. LLOYD DOGGETT, a wide variety of purposes, including employ- fraud, which disproportionally affects vulner- 35th District, Texas, ment and taxes. For these reasons, Social able populations, such as minors and recent im- Washington, DC. Security numbers must be afforded the high- migrants, by facilitating the validation by per- DEAR CONGRESSMAN MARCHANT AND CON- est level of privacy protection to guard mitted entities of fraud protection data, pursu- GRESSMAN DOGGETT: On behalf of the 1.3 mil- against financial fraud or identity theft. ant to electronically received consumer consent, lion members of AMAC, the Association of AARP has a long-standing public policy through use of a database maintained by the Mature American Citizens, I am writing in position to protect the integrity of Social Commissioner. strong support of H.R. 1512, the Social Secu- Security numbers that specifically states (b) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: rity Child Protection Act. This important that ‘‘companies, government agencies, and (1) COMMISSIONER.—The term ‘‘Commissioner’’ piece of legislation offers more protection individuals should not be allowed to post or means the Commissioner of the Social Security for children under 14 who have been victims publicly display Social Security numbers, Administration. of Social Security card theft. This bill is as print them on cards, transmit them over the timely as it is simple in protecting the iden- (2) FINANCIAL INSTITUTION.—The term ‘‘finan- internet or by facsimile, or send them by cial institution’’ has the meaning given the term tities of our nation’s children. mail without safety measures.’’ We appre- The Social Security Child Protection Act in section 509 of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act (15 ciate your support to protect personal Social is a real-life solution to a real-time problem. U.S.C. 6809). Security information and make this change As the Federal Trade Commission (FTC) re- (3) FRAUD PROTECTION DATA.—The term in the law. cently reported, identity theft rose by 50% ‘‘fraud protection data’’ means a combination of We look forward to continuing to work from 2014 to 2015. As millions of identities the following information with respect to an in- are compromised each year due to Social Se- with you to promote the integrity of the So- dividual: curity card theft, children are becoming a cial Security program, and to protect the (A) The name of the individual (including the more attractive target to identity thieves. identities of American workers and their first name and any family forename or surname H.R. 1512 does more to stem Social Security families. If you have any questions, please of the individual). card theft by making it easier for parents to feel free to call me. (B) The Social Security account number of the request new Social Security numbers for Sincerely, individual. their children when their Social Security JOYCE A. ROGERS, (C) The date of birth (including the month, card has been stolen, in transit, from the So- Senior Vice President, Government Affairs. day, and year) of the individual. cial Security Administration (SSA). Mr. MARCHANT. Again, I encourage (4) PERMITTED ENTITY.—The term ‘‘permitted Under current policy, parents of children all Members to vote ‘‘yes’’ to make entity’’ means a financial institution or a serv- under 14 are able to request a new Social Se- ice provider, subsidiary, affiliate, agent, con- curity number only when they can dem- sure that children who have their So- cial Security cards stolen are pro- tractor, or assignee of a financial institution. onstrate harm has occurred as a direct result (c) EFFICIENCY.— of Social Security card theft. However, dem- tected. (1) RELIANCE ON EXISTING METHODS.—The onstrating a level of harm requisite with Madam Speaker, I yield back the bal- Commissioner shall evaluate the feasibility of current policy is difficult for most parents ance of my time. making modifications to any database that is in because children do not typically participate The SPEAKER pro tempore. The existence as of the date of enactment of this Act in activities where harm from Social Secu- question is on the motion offered by or a similar resource such that the database or rity card theft would be made apparent (get- the gentleman from Texas (Mr. MARCH- resource— ting a driver’s license, buying a home, open- (A) is reasonably designed to effectuate the ing a line of credit, etc.). H.R. 1512 would ANT) that the House suspend the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1512, as amend- purpose of this section; and make it easier for parents to get a new So- (B) meets the requirements of subsection (d). cial Security number for their children be- ed. (2) EXECUTION.—The Commissioner shall es- cause they would only need to show their The question was taken; and (two- tablish a system to carry out subsection (a), in child’s Social Security card was stolen in thirds being in the affirmative) the accordance with section 1106 of the Social Secu- transit from the SSA—not that their child rules were suspended and the bill, as rity Act. In doing so, the Commissioner shall suffered harm. As an organization committed to rep- amended, was passed. make the modifications necessary to any data- resenting the interests of mature Americans A motion to reconsider was laid on base that is in existence as of the date of enact- and seniors, AMAC is dedicated to ensuring the table. ment of this Act or similar resource, or develop a database or similar resource. senior citizens’ interests are protected. We f thank Congressman Marchant and Congress- (d) PROTECTION OF VULNERABLE CON- man Doggett for their commonsense and PROTECTING CHILDREN FROM SUMERS.—The database or similar resource de- practical solution to protect children from IDENTITY THEFT ACT scribed in subsection (c) shall— identity theft. AMAC is pleased to offer our (1) compare fraud protection data provided in organization’s full support to the Social Se- Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- an inquiry by a permitted entity against such curity Child Protection Act. er, pursuant to House Resolution 830, I information maintained by the Commissioner in Sincerely, call up the bill (H.R. 5192) to authorize order to confirm (or not confirm) the validity of DAN WEBER, the Commissioner of Social Security to the information provided, and in such a manner President and Founder of AMAC. provide confirmation of fraud protec- as to deter fraudulent use of the database or tion data to certain permitted entities, similar resource; AARP, (2) be scalable and accommodate reasonably and for other purposes, and ask for its anticipated volumes of verification requests from Washington, DC, April 11, 2018. immediate consideration in the House. Hon. KEVIN BRADY, permitted entities with commercially reasonable Chairman, House of Representatives, The Clerk read the title of the bill. uptime and availability; and Committee on Ways and Means, Washington, The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. (3) allow permitted entities to submit— DC. STEWART). Pursuant to House Resolu- (A) one or more individual requests electroni- Hon. RICHARD E. NEAL, tion 830, in lieu of the amendment in cally for real-time machine-to-machine (or simi- Ranking Member, House of Representatives, the nature of a substitute rec- lar functionality) accurate responses; and Committee on Ways and Means, Washington, ommended by the Committee on Ways (B) multiple requests electronically, such as those provided in a batch format, for accurate DC. and Means printed in the bill, an DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY: On behalf of electronic responses within a reasonable period AARP’s 38 million members, I am writing in amendment in the nature of a sub- of time from submission, not to exceed 24 hours. support of H.R. 1512, the Social Security stitute consisting of the text of Rules (e) CERTIFICATION REQUIRED.—Before pro- Child Protection Act of 2017. The bill directs Committee Print 115–68 is adopted, and viding confirmation of fraud protection data to the Social Security Administration (SSA) to the bill, as amended, is considered a permitted entity, the Commissioner shall en- issue a new Social Security number to a read. sure that the Commissioner has a certification child under the age of 14 if the confiden- The text of the bill, as amended, is as from the permitted entity that is dated not more tiality of the child’s previous number has follows: than 2 years before the date on which that con- been compromised due to the theft of the firmation is provided that includes the following documentation. AARP is strongly com- H.R. 5192 declarations: mitted to protecting the confidentiality of Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- (1) The entity is a permitted entity. Social Security numbers for American citi- resentatives of the United States of America in (2) The entity is in compliance with this sec- zens of all ages. Congress assembled, tion.

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The amount of such prices shall be able to continue providing important years. periodically adjusted by the Commissioner to en- services and benefits. (f) CONSUMER CONSENT.— sure that amounts collected are sufficient to The SSA Commissioner is not al- (1) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any other fully offset the cost of the administration of this provision of law or regulation, a permitted enti- lowed to begin development of the new section. verification system until the Commis- ty may submit a request to the database or simi- (2) INITIAL DEVELOPMENT.—The Commissioner lar resource described in subsection (c) only— shall not begin development of a verification sioner determines that at least 50 per- (A) pursuant to the written, including elec- system to carry out this section until the Com- cent of the program’s startup costs tronic, consent received by a permitted entity missioner determines that amounts equal to at have been covered by users. After ini- from the individual who is the subject of the re- least 50 percent of program start-up costs have tial development, users of the verifica- quest; and been collected under paragraph (1). (B) in connection with any circumstance de- tion system are obligated to pay for (3) EXISTING RESOURCES.—The Commissioner scribed in section 604 of the Fair Credit Report- the ongoing costs associated with this of Social Security may use funds designated for new workload by way of advances, re- ing Act (15 U.S.C. 1681b). information technology modernization to carry (2) ELECTRONIC CONSENT REQUIREMENTS.—For out this section, but in all cases shall be fully imbursements, user fees, or other re- a permitted entity to use the consent of an indi- reimbursed under paragraph (1)(A). coveries, as determined by the Com- vidual received electronically pursuant to para- (4) ANNUAL REPORT.—The Commissioner of So- missioner. graph (1)(A), the permitted entity must obtain cial Security shall annually submit to the Com- My south Florida district is far too the individual’s electronic signature, as defined mittee on Ways and Means of the House of Rep- familiar with fraudulent activity af- in section 106 of the Electronic Signatures in resentatives and the Committee on Finance of Global and National Commerce Act (15 U.S.C. fecting the community, and sadly, chil- the Senate a report on the amount of indirect 7006). Permitted entities must develop and use dren and immigrants are particularly costs to the Social Security Administration aris- an electronic signature process in accordance vulnerable to these schemes. Over 1 ing as a result of the implementation of this sec- with all Federal laws and requirements as des- tion. million children have their identity ignated by the Commissioner. stolen annually, and they are 50 times (3) EFFECTUATING ELECTRONIC CONSENT.—No The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill, more likely than adults to be victims provision of law or requirement, including sec- as amended, shall be debatable for 1 of identity theft. tion 552a of title 5, United States Code, shall hour equally divided and controlled by I am proud to partner with Rep- prevent the use of electronic consent for pur- the chair and ranking minority mem- poses of this subsection or for use in any other resentatives SINEMA, HULTGREN, and ber of the Committee on Ways and MARCHANT on this important effort. I consent based verification under the discretion Means. of the Commissioner. would also like to thank Chairman The gentleman from Florida (Mr. (g) COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT.— BRADY and subcommittee Chairman CURBELO) and the gentleman from Illi- (1) AUDITS AND MONITORING.— JOHNSON for their leadership and hard (A) IN GENERAL.—The Commissioner— nois (Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS) each will (i) shall conduct audits and monitoring to— work, as well as the staff of the Social control 30 minutes. Security Subcommittee and the rest of (I) ensure proper use by permitted entities of The Chair recognizes the gentleman the database or similar resource described in the House Committee on Ways and subsection (c); and from Florida. Means staff who have worked on this (II) deter fraud and misuse by permitted enti- GENERAL LEAVE legislation. ties with respect to the database or similar re- Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- I encourage all my colleagues to vote source described in subsection (c); and er, I ask unanimous consent that all (ii) may terminate services for any permitted in favor of H.R. 5192, the Protecting entity that prevents or refuses to allow the Com- Members may have 5 legislative days Children from Identity Theft Act, to missioner to carry out the activities described in within which to revise and extend their help modernize identity protections for clause (i) and may terminate or suspend services remarks and include extraneous mate- our children. for any permitted entity as necessary to enforce rial on H.R. 5192, currently under con- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of any violation of this section or of any certifi- sideration. my time. cation made under this section. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. (2) ENFORCEMENT.— objection to the request of the gen- Speaker, I yield myself such time as I (A) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any other provision of law, including the matter preceding tleman from Florida? may consume. paragraph (1) of section 505(a) of the Gramm- There was no objection. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in Leach-Bliley Act (15 U.S.C. 6805(a)), any viola- Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- support of H.R. 5192, the Protecting tion of this section and any certification made er, I yield myself such time as I may Children from Identity Theft Act, under this section shall be enforced in accord- consume. which was introduced by Representa- ance with paragraphs (1) through (7) of such Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong tives CARLOS CURBELO of Florida and section 505(a) by the agencies described in those support of H.R. 5192, the Protecting KYRSTEN SINEMA of Arizona. paragraphs. Children from Identity Theft Act, and I Our Nation is facing a growing epi- (B) RELEVANT INFORMATION.—Upon discovery by the Commissioner of any violation of this sec- am grateful that it is being brought be- demic of so-called synthetic identity tion or any certification made under this sec- fore the House today. theft. This is a sophisticated form of tion, the Commissioner shall forward any rel- This bill aims to combat synthetic fraud where the fraudster manufac- evant information pertaining to that violation identity fraud by directing the Social tures a fake identity using a legitimate to the appropriate agency described in subpara- Security Administration to accept Social Security number but combining graph (A) for evaluation by the agency for pur- electronic signatures when financial it with a made-up name. Numbers that poses of enforcing this section. institutions want to verify their cus- belong to children are especially valu- (h) RECOVERY OF COSTS.— (1) IN GENERAL.— tomers’ information. able for these fraudsters. This is be- (A) IN GENERAL.—Amounts obligated to carry Synthetic identity fraud accounts for cause children typically do not yet out this section shall be fully recovered from the 80 percent of all credit card fraud losses have a credit record. If they did, the users of the database or verification system by today. It has been reported that a credit record would reveal that the way of advances, reimbursements, user fees, or record $355 million in outstanding cred- name and number do not match, mak- other recoveries as determined by the Commis- it card balances was owed by people ing the number useless to the synthetic sioner. The funds recovered under this para- who it suspects didn’t exist in 2017, up graph shall be deposited as an offsetting collec- identity fraudster. tion to the account providing appropriations for more than eightfold from 2012. Under this bill, banks and other cer- the Social Security Administration, to be used The Government Accountability Of- tified users could verify the customer’s for the administration of this section without fice describes this type of fraud as in- name, Social Security number, and fiscal year limitation. volving the creation of a fictitious date of birth with Social Security’s

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It is a pleasure to work any identity information back to the American people deserve nothing less. with her and to team up, in a bipar- bank other than, yes, this is a match Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. tisan manner, to fight fraud and to or, no, this does not match. This Speaker, I am pleased to yield 5 min- help the most vulnerable, in this case, matching could occur more quickly utes to the gentlewoman from Arizona the children. I am very grateful to her, than it does under current law, to re- (Ms. SINEMA), the lead Democratic co- for all her work on this legislation. flect the way commerce is conducted sponsor of this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. today. b 1645 I am pleased that we were able to HULTGREN). work in a bipartisan way to develop Ms. SINEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise in Mr. HULTGREN. Mr. Speaker, I rise this legislation and to strengthen it as support of H.R. 5192, the Protecting today to speak in support of the Pro- it moved through the committee proc- Children from Identity Theft Act. tecting Children from Identity Theft ess. We did so in several ways. Mr. Speaker, most of us assume our Act. First, we made sure that users of the children are safe from identity theft. I would also like to begin by thank- system paid the full cost of developing Most children don’t have credit cards, ing Leader MCCARTHY and my col- it and conducting the verifications. We and many don’t have bank accounts, so leagues on the Ways and Means Com- did not want to detract from the main why would they be targeted? Unfortu- mittee, especially CARLOS CURBELO, for mission of Social Security, which is to nately, there is a new type of crime on his support in bringing this legislation to the House floor. make sure Americans receive their the rise known as synthetic identity H.R. 5192 will bring the Social Secu- earned Social Security benefits on theft. This crime targets children and accounts for billions of dollars in cred- rity Administration into the 21st cen- time and in full. tury to assist the private sector in Second, we strengthened the security it card fraud. combating identity fraud. Identity of the system to make it not subject to Synthetic identity theft is happening theft affects thousands, if not millions, misuse. Americans’ personal informa- right now, and it is hurting real people. In Arizona, a 17-year-old girl discov- of children and families a year. A re- tion must be kept secure, and Social port by Carnegie Mellon CyLab exam- Security must only conduct the match- ered she had accumulated over $275,000 in debt because her Social Security ined more than 40,000 cases of identity ing when the individual has given con- theft and found that 10 percent of chil- sent. number was linked to eight scammers and 42 accounts, including mortgages, dren in the study had someone else I am pleased to say that Social Secu- using their Social Security number. rity’s track record on this is strong, auto loans, and credit cards. To pull off this fraud, criminals ob- Among other things, children’s identi- and I expect they will carry on with ties were used to purchase homes and their protectiveness of Americans’ pri- tain a Social Security number with no prior credit history, and they use it to open credit card accounts. vate data as they design a new system. According to the information re- apply for a credit card under a fake I urge my colleagues to support this bi- cently published by the Algonquin name. While the first fraudulent credit partisan legislation to protect children Patch, Illinois ranks number seven in card application is usually denied, the and fight identity theft. the United States for identity theft. failed attempt creates a ‘‘synthetic Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The median loss for fraud is nearly identity’’ with credit bureaus. This al- my time. $500. Credit card fraud is the most com- Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- lows thieves to apply for credit cards, mon type of fraud. er, it is my pleasure to yield 3 minutes other lines of credit, cell phones, and For example, in Wilmette, Illinois, to the gentleman from Texas (Mr. SAM other activities that require a credit the Social Security number of a 13- JOHNSON), the distinguished chairman check. Over time, thieves are able to year-old was used by a fraudster to of the Social Security Subcommittee. rack up mountains of debt and ruin open a credit card with a plan to use it Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. kids’ credit before they have a chance to pay for plastic surgery. Imagine Speaker, I thank Mr. CURBELO for to build their futures. when these children go to get their yielding and for introducing this com- Every day, Arizona families first legitimate extension of credit, monsense and much-needed bill. shouldn’t have to worry about their maybe a car loan or a student loan, Mr. Speaker, synthetic identity fraud kids being targets of financial fraud only to find out that criminals have is a real problem with real costs to the and identity theft. Because financial stolen their identities and wrecked victims. One million children have criminals constantly use new tricks to their financial standing. their identity stolen each year, and steal children’s identities, we must The Protecting Children from Iden- they deserve to be protected. This leg- modernize and strengthen ID verifica- tity Theft will strengthen the relation- islation will also help stop criminals tion for everyday financial activities. ship between the public and private from stealing $1 billion a year by en- Our bill, the Protecting Children sectors in order to combat identity suring that we can verify a person is from Identity Theft Act, fights back theft. Specifically, it will bring the So- who he or she claims to be when apply- and gives Arizonans peace of mind. By cial Security Administration into the ing for a credit card. directing the Social Security Adminis- 21st century by allowing companies Synthetic identity fraud is a growing tration to modernize its ID verification who meet strict regulatory standards problem. Social Security must quickly system to allow for more transactions to electronically confirm whether a take steps to get this important fraud- to be screened and verified, we are tak- name, date of birth, and Social Secu- fighting tool up and running. As chair- ing a commonsense step to ensure peo- rity number match. man of the Social Security Sub- ple are who they say they are. Our This will make it much easier for committee, I intend to make sure So- commonsense bill closes a key security companies, such as credit card issuers, cial Security doesn’t hold this up in gap, helping to stop synthetic identity to ensure that they are only providing any way. theft in its tracks. credit to legitimate applicants. This While Social Security will provide Thank you to Chairman BRADY and will prevent millions of dollars in fraud this service, the users pay the full cost special thanks to the gentleman from costs, not to mention preventing all of so Social Security’s budget won’t be Florida (Mr. CURBELO), my friend, for the headaches for my constituents impacted. working together to protect our chil- whose identities will be at risk unless Social Security has an important job: dren and crack down on fraudsters. Ar- this bill is signed into law. to make sure those who are eligible get izonans value their privacy, and they Again, I want to encourage all of my the benefits they deserve. I am com- want us to work together to protect it. colleagues to vote in support of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.068 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3380 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 Protecting Children from Identity This kind of fraud can really ruin Higgins (LA) McCarthy Russell Theft Act. people’s lives, and today, we are work- Higgins (NY) McCaul Rutherford Hill McClintock Ryan (OH) Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. ing together, as one united House, Re- Himes McCollum Sa´ nchez Speaker, I yield myself such time as I publicans and Democrats, to fight Holding McEachin Sanford may consume. I have no further re- fraud and to protect children, some of Hollingsworth McGovern Sarbanes quests for time, so I am going to move the most vulnerable people in our soci- Hoyer McHenry Schakowsky ahead and close. Hudson McKinley Schiff ety. Huffman McMorris Schneider Mr. Speaker, I think we have seen Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote, and Huizenga Rodgers Schrader much agreement on the floor today, I yield back the balance of my time. Hultgren McNerney Schweikert pleasantly so. I really don’t know when The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time Hunter McSally Scott (VA) I have seen as much agreement on a for debate has expired. Hurd Meadows Scott, Austin group of bills and legislation as I have Issa Meehan Scott, David Pursuant to House Resolution 830, Jackson Lee Meeks Sensenbrenner seen on this day. And I guess it really the previous question is ordered on the Jayapal Meng Serrano means that all of us agree that we need bill, as amended. Jeffries Messer Sessions to do everything that we can to protect The question is on the engrossment Jenkins (KS) Mitchell Sewell (AL) ourselves from identity theft, that we Johnson (GA) Moolenaar Shea-Porter and third reading of the bill. Johnson (LA) Mooney (WV) Sherman need to look after the interest of chil- The bill was ordered to be engrossed Johnson (OH) Moore Shimkus dren and protect them. and read a third time, and was read the Johnson, E. B. Moulton Shuster I want to thank all of the staff from third time. Johnson, Sam Mullin Simpson both sides of the aisle, even those who Jones Murphy (FL) Sinema The SPEAKER pro tempore. The worked for subcommittees, as well as Jordan Nadler Sires question is on the passage of the bill. Joyce (OH) Napolitano Smith (MO) for the primary staff, for the tremen- The question was taken; and the Kaptur Neal Smith (NE) dous amount of work that they have Speaker pro tempore announced that Katko Newhouse Smith (NJ) done. Keating Noem Smith (TX) Again, it is a pleasure working with the ayes appeared to have it. Kelly (IL) Nolan Smucker Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- Kelly (MS) Norcross Soto Mr. CURBELO, and I guess if we don’t Kelly (PA) Norman Speier agree on everything, we do agree that er, on that I demand the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. Kennedy Nunes Stefanik all of us have a responsibility to file Khanna O’Halleran Stewart and pay income taxes in order to keep The vote was taken by electronic de- Kihuen O’Rourke Stivers our government moving. vice, and there were—yeas 420, nays 1, Kildee Olson Suozzi It has been a pleasant day, not just not voting 8, as follows: Kilmer Palazzo Swalwell (CA) Kind Pallone Takano for us, but I think all of our constitu- [Roll No. 142] King (IA) Palmer Taylor ents, who have watched the pro- YEAS—420 King (NY) Panetta Tenney Pascrell Thompson (CA) ceedings, probably are saying to them- Abraham Castro (TX) Duncan (TN) Kinzinger Paulsen selves that they would love to see more Adams Chabot Dunn Knight Thompson (PA) days like this, and I would, too. So I Aderholt Cheney Ellison Krishnamoorthi Payne Thornberry Aguilar Chu, Judy Emmer Kuster (NH) Pearce Tipton urge passage of this bill and the others Allen Cicilline Engel Kustoff (TN) Pelosi Titus that we have had before us. Amash Clark (MA) Eshoo Labrador Perlmutter Tonko Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Amodei Clarke (NY) Espaillat LaHood Perry Torres of my time. Arrington Clay Estes (KS) LaMalfa Peters Trott Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speak- Babin Cleaver Esty (CT) Lamb Peterson Tsongas Bacon Clyburn Evans Lamborn Pingree Turner er, I yield myself such time as I may Banks (IN) Coffman Faso Lance Pittenger Upton consume. Barletta Cohen Ferguson Langevin Pocan Valadao Mr. Speaker, I appreciate the com- Barr Cole Fitzpatrick Larsen (WA) Poe (TX) Vargas Barraga´ n Collins (GA) Fleischmann ments of my colleague, Mr. DAVIS, and Larson (CT) Poliquin Veasey Barton Collins (NY) Flores Latta Polis Vela Bass Comer I agree with him. This is certainly Fortenberry Lawrence Posey Vela´ zquez Beatty Comstock Foster something to celebrate. The American Lawson (FL) Price (NC) Visclosky Bera Conaway Foxx Lee Quigley Wagner people oftentimes see us arguing. It is Bergman Connolly Frankel (FL) Raskin less often that they see us collabo- Beyer Cook Frelinghuysen Levin Walberg rating, working together to advance Biggs Cooper Fudge Lewis (GA) Ratcliffe Walden Lewis (MN) Reed Walker policies that will improve quality of Bilirakis Correa Gabbard Bishop (GA) Costa Gaetz Lieu, Ted Reichert Walorski life in our country. Bishop (MI) Costello (PA) Gallagher Lipinski Renacci Walters, Mimi That is why I want to again urge all Bishop (UT) Courtney Gallego LoBiondo Rice (NY) Walz of my colleagues to support H.R. 5192, Blackburn Cramer Garamendi Loebsack Rice (SC) Wasserman the Protecting Children from Identity Blum Crawford Garrett Lofgren Richmond Schultz Blumenauer Crist Gianforte Long Roby Waters, Maxine Theft Act. We need to do everything we Blunt Rochester Crowley Gibbs Loudermilk Roe (TN) Watson Coleman can to safeguard our communities from Bonamici Cuellar Gohmert Love Rogers (AL) Webster (FL) these fraud schemes. This problem has Bost Culberson Gomez Lowenthal Rogers (KY) Welch worsened significantly over the past Boyle, Brendan Cummings Gonzalez (TX) Lowey Rohrabacher Wenstrup F. Curbelo (FL) Goodlatte Lucas Rokita Westerman few years and is leaving families with Brady (PA) Curtis Gosar Luetkemeyer Rooney, Francis Williams Brady (TX) Davidson Gottheimer debt they did not accrue and a weaker Lujan Grisham, Rooney, Thomas Wilson (FL) Brat Davis (CA) Gowdy credit history. M. J. Wilson (SC) Brooks (AL) Davis, Danny Granger Luja´ n, Ben Ray Ros-Lehtinen Wittman H.R. 5192 will help root out synthetic Brooks (IN) Davis, Rodney Graves (GA) Lynch Rosen Womack identity fraud through modernized ver- Brown (MD) DeFazio Graves (LA) MacArthur Roskam Brownley (CA) DeGette Woodall ification of customer information, and Graves (MO) Maloney, Ross Buchanan Delaney Yarmuth Green, Al Carolyn B. Rothfus I hope my colleagues will join me in Buck DelBene Green, Gene Yoder Maloney, Sean Rouzer voting to help protect individuals Bucshon Demings Griffith Yoho Marchant Roybal-Allard Budd Denham Grijalva Young (AK) across the country from this illegal ac- Marino Royce (CA) tivity. Burgess Dent Grothman Young (IA) Bustos DeSantis Guthrie Marshall Ruiz Zeldin Once again, Mr. Speaker, my appre- Butterfield DeSaulnier Gutie´rrez Mast Ruppersberger ciation to Chairman BRADY, to Rank- Byrne DesJarlais Hanabusa Matsui Rush ing Member NEAL, to Mr. DAVIS, to Mr. Calvert Deutch Handel Capuano Diaz-Balart Harper NAYS—1 HULTGREN, to Ms. SINEMA, and to ev- Carbajal Dingell Harris Massie eryone who has been a part of making Ca´ rdenas Doggett Hartzler this happen, so that, after we pass this Carson (IN) Donovan Hastings NOT VOTING—8 legislation, children in our country Carter (GA) Doyle, Michael Heck Carter (TX) F. Hensarling Black Jenkins (WV) Thompson (MS) won’t have to worry about having their Cartwright Duffy Herrera Beutler Bridenstine Scalise Weber (TX) identities stolen at such a young age. Castor (FL) Duncan (SC) Hice, Jody B. DeLauro Smith (WA)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.070 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3381 b 1720 There was no objection. AUTHORIZING THE SPEAKER TO Ms. MCCOLLUM and Mr. RODNEY The text of the concurrent resolution DECLARE A RECESS ON WEDNES- DAVIS of Illinois changed their vote is as follows: DAY, APRIL 25, 2018, FOR THE PURPOSE OF RECEIVING IN from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ H. CON. RES. 115 So the bill was passed. JOINT MEETING HIS EXCEL- The result of the vote was announced Resolved by the House of Representatives (the LENCY EMMANUEL MACRON, Senate concurring), as above recorded. PRESIDENT OF THE FRENCH RE- A motion to reconsider was laid on SECTION 1. USE OF THE CAPITOL GROUNDS FOR PUBLIC NATIONAL PEACE OFFICERS MEMO- the table. RIAL SERVICE. Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask Stated for: unanimous consent that it may be in (a) IN GENERAL.—The Grand Lodge of the Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- Fraternal Order of Police and its auxiliary order at any time on Wednesday, April ably detained. Had I been present, I would shall be permitted to sponsor a public event, 25, 2018, for the Speaker to declare a re- have voted ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 142. the 37th Annual National Peace Officers Me- cess, subject to the call of the Chair, f morial Service (in this resolution referred to for the purpose of receiving in joint as the ‘‘Memorial Service’’), on the Capitol meeting His Excellency Emmanuel Ma- ELECTING MEMBERS TO CERTAIN Grounds, in order to honor the law enforce- cron, President of the French Republic. STANDING COMMITTEES OF THE ment officers who died in the line of duty The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES during 2017. objection to the request of the gen- Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, by di- (b) DATE OF MEMORIAL SERVICE.—The Me- tleman from Pennsylvania? rection of the Democratic Caucus, I morial Service shall be held on May 15, 2018, There was no objection. offer a privileged resolution and ask or on such other date as the Speaker of the House of Representatives and the Committee for its immediate consideration. on Rules and Administration of the Senate f The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- jointly designate, with preparation for the lows: event to begin on May 11, 2018, and takedown MAKE THE BAN ON DRILLING H. RES. 833 completed on May 16, 2018. PERMANENT Resolved, That the following named Mem- SEC. 2. USE OF THE CAPITOL GROUNDS FOR NA- bers be and are hereby elected to the fol- TIONAL HONOR GUARD AND PIPE (Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida lowing standing committees of the House of BAND EXHIBITION. asked and was given permission to ad- Representatives: (a) IN GENERAL.—The Grand Lodge of the dress the House for 1 minute and to re- (1) COMMITTEE ON NATURAL RESOURCES.— Fraternal Order of Police and its auxiliary vise and extend his remarks.) Ms. Vela´ zquez. shall be permitted to sponsor a public event, Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida. (2) COMMITTEE ON SCIENCE, SPACE, AND the National Honor Guard and Pipe Band Ex- Mr. Speaker, this week marks the TECHNOLOGY.—Mr. Lamb (to rank imme- hibition (in this resolution referred to as the eighth anniversary of the 2010 Deep- diately after Ms. Rosen). ‘‘Exhibition’’), on the Capitol Grounds, in water Horizon oil spill in the central (3) COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS.—Mr. order to allow law enforcement representa- Gulf of Mexico. Lamb (to rank immediately after Mr. tives to exhibit their ability to demonstrate Correa). Honor Guard programs and provide for a bag- Accordingly, I rise today to, once The resolution was agreed to. pipe exhibition. again, vigorously oppose any effort to A motion to reconsider was laid on (b) DATE OF EXHIBITION.—The Exhibition allow energy exploration in the eastern the table. shall be held on May 14, 2018, or on such gulf. The ban on drilling east of the other date as the Speaker of the House of Military Mission Line, 86 degrees, 41 f Representatives and the Committee on Rules minutes west, was put in place in 2006 PERMISSION FOR MEMBER TO BE and Administration of the Senate jointly and is going to expire in 2022. We need CONSIDERED AS FIRST SPONSOR designate. to make it permanent. OF H.R. 141 SEC. 3. TERMS AND CONDITIONS. Our tourism industry in Florida and Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speak- (a) IN GENERAL.—Under conditions to be our residential development need pro- er, I ask unanimous consent that I may prescribed by the Architect of the Capitol tection from offshore drilling. We need hereafter be considered to be the first and the Capitol Police Board, the event shall protection from the oil companies. sponsor of H.R. 141, a bill originally in- be— Another spill like Deepwater Horizon (1) free of admission charge and open to the troduced by Representative Conyers of would be an existential threat to Flor- public; and ida. The clockwise loop current, which Michigan, for the purposes of adding (2) arranged not to interfere with the needs cosponsors and requesting reprintings of Congress. runs all down the west coast, would carry any chemicals that get into the pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII. (b) EXPENSES AND LIABILITIES.—The spon- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. sors of the Memorial Service and Exhibition water all down the west coast to Key HULTGREN). Is there objection to the shall assume full responsibility for all ex- West. request of the gentleman from Geor- penses and liabilities incident to all activi- We don’t need the eastern Gulf to be- gia? ties associated with the events. come self-sufficient in energy, either. There was no objection. SEC. 4. EVENT PREPARATIONS. Technology and the shale revolution have taken care of that. f Subject to the approval of the Architect of the Capitol, the sponsors referred to in sec- The Western Hemisphere is already AUTHORIZING THE USE OF THE tion 3(b) are authorized to erect upon the independent and the U.S. itself will be CAPITOL GROUNDS FOR THE NA- Capitol Grounds such stage, sound amplifi- before long. It is estimated that the TIONAL PEACE OFFICERS MEMO- cation devices, and other related structures U.S. will supply 30 percent of Mexico’s RIAL SERVICE AND THE NA- and equipment, as may be required for the gas by 2030. In the Permian Basin TIONAL HONOR GUARD AND PIPE Memorial Service and Exhibition. alone, one of the three producing sands BAND EXHIBITION SEC. 5. ENFORCEMENT OF RESTRICTIONS. is estimated to hold over 20 billion bar- Mr. BARLETTA. Mr. Speaker, I ask The Capitol Police Board shall provide for rels of oil equivalence. unanimous consent that the Com- enforcement of the restrictions contained in As the CEO of Shell said recently: We mittee on Transportation and Infra- section 5104(c) of title 40, United States Code, will see peak demand for gasoline and structure be discharged from further concerning sales, advertisements, displays, oil within the decade. consideration of House Concurrent Res- and solicitations on the Capitol Grounds, as Shell’s latest offshore platform, the olution 115, and ask for its immediate well as other restrictions applicable to the Vito, has been scaled back 80 percent Capitol Grounds, in connection with the consideration in the House. events. from 40,000 tons to 8,900 tons because it The Clerk read the title of the con- is just not productive. current resolution. The concurrent resolution was agreed Shell is investing in alternative ener- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there to. gies. objection to the request of the gen- A motion to reconsider was laid on Mr. Speaker, please protect Florida tleman from Pennsylvania? the table. and make the ban permanent.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.073 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3382 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 TRUMP ADMINISTRATION WEAK- wealth of kindness will continue to in his 1932 Chevy. He was known as a ENS CLEAN AIR PROTECTIONS spread from everyone she touched. Mr. Fix-It and loved to work on cars. May God bless her and her family, (Mr. MCEACHIN asked and was given Hal was also known for his warm permission to address the House for 1 and may she rest in peace. heart and great sense of humor. minute.) f Mr. Speaker, please join me in recog- nizing Hal’s contributions to the town Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I am TAX DAY 2018 deeply concerned by the administra- of Chenango over the past two decades. (Mrs. BEATTY asked and was given Our deepest condolences to Hal’s fam- tion’s continued assault on essential permission to address the House for 1 regulations that protect our health and ily on the loss of an honored and be- minute.) loved member of our community. our environment. Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, as Jus- All Americans need, deserve, and tice Oliver Wendell Holmes put it: f have a right to breathe clean air. His- ‘‘Taxes are the price we pay for a civ- torically, we have upheld that right to HONORING SERGEANT FIRST ilized society.’’ CLASS (RETIRED) ROY F. TACHIAS reasonable, science-based limits on pol- I rise today because, with the enact- ´ lution, but that tradition is under as- ment of the Republican tax bill, the (Mr. BEN RAY LUJAN of New Mex- sault. American people have been getting the ico asked and was given permission to Last week, the administration di- short end of that deal. address the House for 1 minute and to rected the EPA to weaken the stand- When the majority jammed through revise and extend his remarks.) ards for ambient air pollution. their tax bill, we all knew it was a Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mexico. By allowing for emissions trading, massive giveaway to the super-wealthy Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a this directive will magnify existing en- and the well-connected. great New Mexican and American hero, vironmental injustices, enabling in- Now we see the evidence, tax day. Sergeant First Class Roy Tachias of creased pollution in communities that The vast majority of tax cuts have Albuquerque, who is here with us already live with dangerously high con- gone to stock buybacks, dividends, and today. centrations. corporate mergers, while only a sliver In 1950, Roy Tachias was deployed to The order also softens public health of the benefits have found their way to Korea, where he saw fierce combat. One mandates under the Clean Air Act. It American workers. night, Roy was ordered to mount a for- restricts what kind of scientific data On top of that, it will be ordinary ward listening post. That night, in regulators can use, and it increases Americans and our children and grand- darkness, he witnessed the Chinese their workloads without providing new children who will shoulder the trillions Army approaching. Alone, Roy began resources. of dollars of debt and threats to cut the to shout, shoot, and throw grenades at Mr. Speaker, if we ignore the best very Federal programs that help them the waves of soldiers. This threw the available science or if we starve agen- and their families make ends meet. enemy into disarray and stopped the cies of the resources they need to actu- Americans deserve better than the attack. ally uphold commonsense limits, then Republican tax bill, massive debt, and By morning, Sergeant Tachias had we are not protecting the American never-ending dysfunction. They deserve single-handedly killed 33 enemy sol- people. better jobs, better wages, and a better diers and taken one prisoner. He earned Last week’s directive was dangerous future. the Silver Star for conspicuous gal- and a needless mistake. Like the rest f lantry and heroism. Stars and Stripes of this administration’s dirty energy RECOGNIZING THE LEGACY OF called him the ‘‘One Man Army.’’ Ser- agenda, it needs to be reversed. HAROLD ‘‘HAL’’ SNOPEK geant Tachias was wounded five times f in Korea and received the Purple Heart (Ms. TENNEY asked and was given with a Bronze Star with valor. b 1730 permission to address the House for 1 After the war, Roy married and set- HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY minute and to revise and extend her re- tled in California. He eventually re- OF LINDA LAMBOURNE marks.) turned to the Army and served two Ms. TENNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise (Mr. KNIGHT asked and was given tours in Vietnam, where his leadership today to recognize the legacy of Harold and bravery earned him another Bronze permission to address the House for 1 ‘‘Hal’’ Snopek of Binghamton, New minute.) Star. In 1976, he retired and returned York. Mr. Hal Snopek was the beloved home to New Mexico. Mr. KNIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise Chenango town supervisor and, sadly, today to honor the life and legacy of It is with great gratitude, pride, and passed away last month. Hal graduated respect that we recognize his service Linda Lambourne, a loving wife, com- from Chenango Forks High School, passionate mother, dedicated public today. New Mexico is humbled by his where he was a multiyear letterman, lifetime of service that began on the servant, and a pillar in the community setting several school records, one of Santa Clarita. Korean Peninsula in 1950, and has con- which still stands today. He was in- tinued to inspire those around him. Linda served this esteemed body as ducted into the New York State Public an aide to my predecessor, Congress- High School Hall of Fame Athletic As- f man Buck McKeon. She later contin- sociation in 1991. ued her public service in the office of RECOGNIZING THE SYLVESTER Hal was also a devoted car salesman COMPREHENSIVE CANCER CENTER my dear friend, California State sen- at JW Greene for over 25 years. He was ator, Scott Wilk. appointed to the Chenango town board (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN asked and was Her energy, kindness, and commit- in 2004, and served as the town’s cur- given permission to address the House ment to the people of her community rent supervisor. for 1 minute and to revise and extend was felt by everyone who had the privi- Hal was deeply devoted to his family, her remarks.) lege of meeting her. Linda was deeply leaving behind his loving wife and high Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I admired and loved by her family and school sweetheart, Donna, his daugh- rise today to recognize the Sylvester the people of Santa Clarita. ters, Tami and Tina, four grand- Comprehensive Cancer Center at my Mr. Speaker, although she was diag- children, and two great-grandchildren. alma mater, the University of Miami. nosed with ALS nearly 3 years ago, Along with being a dedicated public Sylvester is the only university-based Linda never lost her vibrant spirit, as servant, Hal was a loving husband, dad, cancer center in South Florida. With her memory continues, to this day, to grandfather, and ‘‘Pop Pop.’’ He was a locations from Miami to Coral Springs, be a light in our community. parishioner at the former St. Chris- it serves one of the most diverse re- She is survived by her husband, topher’s Church, where he and Donna gions in the Nation. Steve; her two daughters, Lindsey and were married 57 years ago, and he was We are lucky to have Sylvester be- Angie; and her five grandchildren. currently active at Most Holy Rosary. cause, unfortunately, Florida has the While California may have lost a dear In his later years, Hal enjoyed driv- second highest rate of cancer in the friend with her passing, her joy and ing all over town with his wife, Donna, country. This is why, every day, more

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.076 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3383 than 250 doctors and scientists at Syl- the mayor of Nahunta, Georgia, in for 1 minute and to revise and extend vester work tirelessly to discover ex- Georgia’s First Congressional District, his remarks.) citing breakthroughs and lead the for over 15 years and across four dif- Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I search to find a cure for cancer. ferent decades. rise today to call on my colleagues in Sylvester is also committed to in- Mayor Jacobs lived in Nahunta for Congress to extend the biodiesel and creasing access to prevention and early his entire life, taking great pride in his renewable diesel tax incentives detection for South Florida’s most vul- town, and truly caring about its resi- through the end of this year. nerable and high-risk communities. dents and well-being. A testament to For many years, biodiesel producers, his hard work for the well-being of The center will soon be launching a blenders, and marketers have endured Nahunta, Mayor Jacobs founded Neigh- cutting-edge mobile screening unit to inconsistent Federal tax treatment, bors Helping Neighbors there in 2004, serve thousands throughout South while being asked to wait for a much- which is a nonprofit that helps citizens Florida. needed thoughtful and comprehensive Mr. Speaker, I would like to con- search for jobs, purchase homes, apply for nutrition assistance, and much look at energy tax policy. We just cele- gratulate all of the doctors, the nurses, brated the end of an old, outdated, and and the researchers at Sylvester Can- more. Mayor Jacobs has also done an excep- out-of-touch Tax Code, and it is time cer Center on their amazing success, to deal with the last pieces of uncer- and thank them for providing highly tional job guiding his residents through unique situations for Nahunta, tainty. specialized and unique cancer treat- including population changes, hurri- Biodiesel provides important envi- ment for all of our South Florida com- canes, and wildfires. ronmental and economic benefits munity residents. Mayor Jacobs will be remembered by across the country, helps us reduce our f many in Nahunta as one of the best reliance on foreign energy sources, and RECOGNIZING THE PASSING OF leaders the city has ever had. His fam- is a reliable source of American-made RICK ANTLE ily and the city of Nahunta are in my energy. Production has long been sty- thoughts and prayers. mied by the on-again, off-again policy (Mr. PANETTA asked and was given Congress has been implementing, and permission to address the House for 1 f we must provide certainty to the mar- minute and to revise and extend his re- SEVERE RAIN AND FLOODING IN kets and to all the producers, blenders, marks.) KAUAI AND EAST OAHU and marketers whose livelihood de- Mr. PANETTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise (Ms. HANABUSA asked and was pends on biodiesel. today to recognize the passing of Rick given permission to address the House Antle, an absolute legend of the agri- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to for 1 minute.) join me and extend the biodiesel and culture industry in our Salinas Valley Ms. HANABUSA. Mr. Speaker, I rise renewable diesel tax incentives to the and all across our great Nation. today with my colleague, Congress- end of this year, and work with me and Rick was the president and CEO of woman TULSI GABBARD, to call atten- others, in a bipartisan way, to find a the produce giant, Tanimura & Antle. tion to the damage done by severe rain T&A’s success was due to Rick’s and and flooding on the island of Kauai and more permanent solution to this sys- his family’s stewardship of the environ- in East Oahu. tem of irresponsible stopgap tax exten- ment, as well as his employees. For the It was an unexpected spring storm sions. farmworkers, who he called the back- and, according to the National Weather bone of his business, he provided state- Service, the town of Hanalei received f of-the-art healthcare and housing, and more than 27 inches of rain over the invited all of his employees to join a weekend. Hanalei is home to my very GOP TAX SCAM good friends, the Haraguchis. stock option program so that they (Ms. KAPTUR asked and was given could become owners of the company. Thankfully, Mr. Speaker, there are no reports of injuries, and for that we permission to address the House for 1 The way he ran T&A was a testament minute.) to his caring personality and his polit- are lucky and grateful. However, the images of mudslides, mangled road- Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, as cer- ical philosophy. tain as March 20 is the first day of Yet, for Rick, nothing was more im- ways, and severely damaged homes is spring, today, April 17, at midnight, is portant than family. A beloved son, a heartbreaking. It is encouraging to the tax filing deadline for 2017 returns. devoted husband and soulmate to his watch neighbors helping neighbors and Months after passing the $1.8 trillion wife, Tonya, a doting grandfather, and strangers coming together to share deficit-busting tax giveaway, Repub- a dedicated father, Rick’s love for his food, electricity, and water. Kauai suffered a direct hit from a licans are still trying to sell their family, generosity to his employees, hurricane and is home to the wettest trickle-down tax scam. and contributions to the agriculture place on planet Earth. Yet, their In fact, Republicans are so desperate community and to our community will mayor, Bernard Carvalho, who was to spin the tax scam that a GOP-sanc- never be forgotten. born and raised on the island, declared That is why I will never forget his tioned PAC group will spend $1 million the disaster ‘‘the worst.’’ son, Brian, recounting the best piece of on TV ads to convince us of what we On Oahu, during a 24-hour rainfall know isn’t true. The American people advice Rick ever gave him, which was from 4 p.m. Friday to 4 p.m. Saturday, that ‘‘the best fertilizer a farmer can aren’t buying it. more rain fell in Niu Valley in one day Republicans’ huge tax bonanzas to ever use is his shadow.’’ To me, that than in all of April 2017. Flooding philosophy sums up Rick and the Antle corporations and billionaires is not closed a major highway, filled homes trickling down to the American people. family, and that is why he will always with waist-deep water, and washed de- be there, and that is why Rick Antle It is billions of dollars in tax givebacks bris out to sea. to major corporations, but 12 cents to will always be with us. FEMA is working with State and the average worker. f county officials and is prepared to ini- tiate Federal assistance the moment Instead of stuffing the tax scam with REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF corporate giveaways, we should have MAYOR RONNIE E. JACOBS the Governor asks for it. Mr. Speaker, I ask that all our col- closed the carried interest loophole, (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and leagues stand with us and to have pray- one of many promises President Trump was given permission to address the ers for the people of Hawaii. made during his campaign and then broke. That loophole lets hedge fund House for 1 minute and to revise and f extend his remarks.) managers pay a 20 percent tax on their Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speak- EXTEND THE BIODIESEL AND RE- investment profits instead of the 37 er, I rise today to remember the life of NEWABLE DIESEL TAX INCEN- percent individual income tax. Nahunta mayor, Ronnie E. Jacobs, who TIVES The Republican tax plan is pure passed away on Thursday, March 29, at (Mr. YOUNG of Iowa asked and was greed, and we should reverse it at our the age of 64. Mayor Jacobs had been given permission to address the House first opportunity.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.078 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3384 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 b 1745 of New York, who have lost a great with the wind. She did what was right, HONORING THE LIFE OF CALLA voice in this Chamber, and those of and it didn’t have to be popular. MEDIG other districts’ iterations that she rep- Bob had a love and passion for poli- resented through the years that she tics as great as his wonderful wife, (Mr. KIHUEN asked and was given served in this remarkable body. Louise. They were such a Washington permission to address the House for 1 We call to mind Don and her Rules couple. Bob would sometimes drive minute and to revise and extend his re- staff. People who were there as com- Louise back and forth from Rochester, marks.) mittee people assisting her in her every New York, to Albany. He was known as Mr. KIHUEN. Mr. Speaker, today I move. We call to mind Liam and her an incredibly thoughtful and brilliant rise to remember the life of Calla crew here in D.C. and at home in the partner who supported Louise tire- Medig. district office, and certainly her family lessly. Going to the Route 91 festival in Las and friends, people who have worked Their activism began with their fight Vegas had become an annual tradition with her through the years. to protect Hart’s Woods in Perinton, for Calla. She would always take time It is a great loss for all of us. just outside of Rochester. Louise would off from her job as a waitress in Ed- Louise did everything with charm. go on to organize Democrats in monton, Canada, so she could travel to When Louise introduced herself to Perinton, and Bob went on to found the Las Vegas just for the festival. newly elected House Speaker Jim Genesee Valley People’s Power Coali- Calla was a hard worker and was Wright as a newly entering Member tion, fighting against rate increases by about to become the newest manager back in 1986, she spoke in that wonder- Rochester Gas and Electric Corpora- at her restaurant. She was a mature, ful upstate New York accent, inflected tion. grounded, and lighthearted person. with her deep Kentucky roots, which Bob and Louise loved their family Calla will be remembered for being Speaker Wright immediately dis- above all, and tonight I want to recog- kind and warmhearted and for being cerned. nize their daughters—Megan Secatore, someone who would always greet you In her very forward way, she threw Amy Slaughter, and Emily Robin Mi- with a beaming smile. out her hand to shake his, and she in- nerva—and thank them and their fami- I extend my condolences to Calla troduced herself to the new Speaker: lies for the gift of their mother’s time Medig’s family and friends. Please Mr. Speaker, I’m Louise Slaughter and their unselfish giving of her so know that the city of Las Vegas, the from upstate New York. that she could serve our Nation. State of Nevada, and the whole country And he responded: It’s about time up- Megan and Amy and Emily, this Na- grieve with you. state New York elected somebody with- tion owes you a debt of thanks for the f out an accent. extraordinary spirit and achievement CELEBRATING THE EXTRAOR- Louise was a great storyteller. She of your parents, our great and dearly DINARY LIFE OF THE LATE HON- had this way of really personalizing an departed friends, Louise and Bob ORABLE LOUISE SLAUGHTER issue and making it so human that you Slaughter. I have to speak of them as a couldn’t shake. She brought the rel- team. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. evance of issues to human life. There Louise left her imprint on all whom LEWIS of Minnesota). Under the Speak- was no better storyteller than Louise she served in Rochester and in Wash- er’s announced policy of January 3, Slaughter, and she peppered everything ington and for a generation yet unborn. 2017, the gentleman from New York with her unique and delightful sayings Louise’s passion and foresight live on (Mr. TONKO) is recognized for 60 min- that were such a signature of her per- through the lasting and extraordinary utes as the designee of the minority sonality. legacy of her work and through the leader. She was a person of extraordinary in- service that she provided, knowing GENERAL LEAVE tegrity and courage. I remember sit- that that service will continue long Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- ting with her and some of our col- into the future. imous consent that all Members may leagues when Bob passed, her late hus- She was recognized as a fighter for have 5 legislative days within which to band. I know how much she loved him the common, ordinary person, and that revise and extend their remarks and in- and how much he loved her, and I can- is the greatest tribute we can offer her. clude extraneous material on the topic not imagine the pain she felt in that We say thank you to a humble servant of my Special Order. moment. But I watched her steel her- who picked up the task and did it mas- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there self, pick herself up and go on, just the terfully well. objection to the request of the gen- way Bob would have been wanted, an Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman tleman from New York? expression of the deepest love and re- from New York’s 16th Congressional There was no objection. spect I have ever been privileged to District (Mr. ENGEL). Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, it is with witness. Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank my deep sadness that I rise to celebrate Louise had a devotion to public serv- friend and colleague for yielding to me. the extraordinary life of our great ice that was born of the 1960s in a truly I think he really just said it all. friend, colleague, mentor, inspiration, aspirational moment for our country, I had the pleasure of knowing Louise and much-respected Congresswoman, an era that gave birth to a newfound for almost 40 years. We served together Louise Slaughter. driven political generation. And I like in the New York State Assembly up in We met a long time ago in 1983, when to imagine Louise in that moment lis- Albany, New York, and I was senior to both of us entered as freshmen in the tening to the voices of the people, read- her in the New York State Assembly. New York State Assembly. I under- ing news of conflict, of hope for racial She ran for Congress a few years before stood in that moment of meeting that and social justice, of fights for peace in I did, and she was senior to me here. I there was greatness there, and it only the face of seemingly endless war in never stopped teasing her about that to built beyond what I anticipated Vietnam, and empowering women and remind her that she may be senior through the years. speaking for our environment, all set here, but if you put the length of our Louise was a woman of great respect, with extraordinary music. terms together, I am senior to her, and of great charm, of intellect, integrity, Bob Dylan’s ‘‘Blowin’ In The Wind’’ we always got a kick out of that and and passion for doing the right thing. gave us a series of intractable ques- always laughed. And, Louise, this evening, we just say tions about peace, about war, about One thing about Louise is what you thank you for the impact that you freedom, at a time when those ques- saw is what you got. Louise spoke her have had on our lives and, more impor- tions were on the lips of every single mind. She wasn’t afraid to stand up to tantly, on the people for whom you American. And Louise, speaking about power. She was always thinking of the have spoken and for those who have blowing in the wind, was never a good for the country and for New York been impacted favorably by your sound weather vane politician. Amidst the and her congressional district. And works. uncertainty and conflict of that mo- there was no other calculation in what We call to mind this evening the peo- ment, she forged herself a backbone of she did. It was just feeling good trying ple of the 25th Congressional District steel and never wavered, never blew to help the people.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.081 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3385 She was outspoken, and she said She was a passionate voice for pro- Slaughter’s family and the legions of what was on her mind, and she knew gressive values. Like a New Yorker, staff who served her may find comfort more things than many of us have for- she never backed down from a fight. If knowing her great legacy and many ac- gotten. She knew them, and she re- she wanted to get something done, she complishments have improved the lives membered them, and she would always dug in her heels and fought like hell for of so many Americans. have a little quip or a little thing to it. Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to say that would really make you laugh But, as a daughter of the South, she the gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. and would make you feel like you were will equally be remembered for her CAROLYN B. MALONEY), from New with a friend. And she kind of gave you amazing wit, her gentle touch, her dis- York’s 12th Congressional District. the inside scoop on a bunch of things. arming smile, and her genuine friend- Mrs. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New You know, she was the Member of ships on both sides of the aisle. York. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gen- Congress who was the oldest Member of What is remarkable is that, at the tleman for yielding and for his incred- Congress, and you would never know it. end of the day, when the debate con- ible leadership in supporting Louise, When I first found out how old she was, cluded and the votes were taken, Lou- organizing all of her many elections, I thought it was a misprint. She was al- ise was known for sharing a laugh with and organizing this tribute to her to- ways young. Until the day she died, she her colleagues on the opposite side of night. was young, young and having a passion the aisle. No one was a better public servant or and a belief of helping people and hav- Someone once described her as ‘‘a fighter for her constituents than Lou- ing a belief in government and govern- combination of Southern charm and ise Slaughter. Her passing is a huge ment was there to do good for people backroom politics, a Southern belle loss for New York, for the House, and and to be a good tool, not, as some peo- with a cigar in her mouth.’’ She truly for all of us. She worked for people ple would say, that government is the was larger than life. right up until the day she died. When I enemy. When Louise came to Congress, there first came to Congress, Louise took me Louise always believed that govern- were far fewer women in this body. She under her wing. For that, and her ment should be and could be and would helped lead the way for so many of us friendship, I will be forever grateful. I be a friend: a friend to do things for who came after, breaking down bar- truly miss her dearly, but I am com- people, for seniors, for poor people, for riers. So many of us owe her a debt of forted knowing the legacy that she immigrants. If you needed someone to gratitude for the trails she blazed. leaves behind. come and help you work for any cause As a fellow New Yorker, as a fellow When Louise became a Member of the that was a right cause, all you had to female Member of Congress, but most House in 1987, she was one of just 25 fe- do was ask Louise, and she always said of all, as her friend, I know I will miss male leaders. Today, we number more yes. her. than 100. I have no doubt that her lead- Now, our offices back in the Rayburn This body is better served for her ership and the example she set as the building are opposite each other. So service, and the U.S. House will cer- first female chair of the House Rules you go down the hallway. If you turn tainly be a less colorful place without Committee led to more women running left, you are in my office; if you turn seeing her on the floor, leading debates for office. She was a trailblazer, and right, you are in her office. So I often on the rules with her Kentucky accent she broke down doors for people, for got to meet her when we were going to and her commitment to progressive women, and for real change in this votes and got to say things to her values. country. about New York politics, and she really Mr. Speaker, I thank my friend for While I could go on and on about her had the in, the scoop. She really knew the opportunity to speak. legislative achievements, including the what it was. Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to Violence Against Women Act—the first I am going to miss her. I already the gentlewoman from New York’s 17th bill that I worked on when I came to miss her. I know we have so many of Congressional District (Mrs. LOWEY). Congress with Louise—she was the lead our colleagues from New York who are Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, our Na- Democrat along with then-Senator here because all of us together have a tion still grieves the loss of a great Biden. It was a transformational bill heartfelt appreciation of what it was to New Yorker, Louise Slaughter. that addressed violence against women. be Louise and to be Louise’s friend. I will never forget when Louise and I, She fought years for it. Many people You know that twang she had from still just junior Congresswomen at the thought it was a personal affair, a fam- Kentucky? She always proudly told ev- time, charged up the steps of the U.S. ily affair, and she fought to making it eryone she was from Kentucky, but her Senate to demand that Anita Hill be a legal affair that women should be heart was really from New York, and I allowed to testify against Clarence protected in any and every cir- will miss her dearly. Thomas. cumstance. It had money in it to train Rest peacefully, my friend. We all police and prosecutors to be more sen- b 1800 love you. sitive to the needs of women and the Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to Louise never lost that fighting spirit, violence against them. the gentlewoman from New York’s Sev- fearlessness, and commitment to jus- She was a biologist by training and enth Congressional District (Ms. tice, equality, and women’s rights. was very proud of this background. She VELA´ ZQUEZ). She broke barriers, becoming the was a leader on FDA health issues and Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I first woman to chair the House Rules was the first to introduce genetic infor- thank my colleague for yielding time Committee, and set a strong example mation and the Genetic Information to me and thank my friends for orga- of public services and principled leader- Nondiscrimination Act that became a nizing this tribute. ship as dean of the New York congres- central part of the Affordable Care Act, Louise was a remarkable woman, an sional delegation. that you should not hold preexisting astute legislator, a skilled negotiator, As a leading champion of women’s conditions and prevent healthcare for and a gifted debater. She will be re- empowerment, she proudly represented people because of preexisting condi- membered for all those traits. But she Seneca Falls, the site of the first wom- tions. will also be remembered for her com- en’s rights convention. It was an honor She considered that one of her great- passion, her humor, and the many to charge alongside Louise up the steps est achievements. She led the debate kindnesses she extended to all of us. of the Senate that fall day years ago, on the floor for the Democrats for the I will always recall the many times and during the many battles we fought Affordable Care Act and its passage. coming down to this very floor to together for America’s healthcare, She oversaw that historic debate. speak and hearing Louise arguing for women’s rights, opportunity for work- Her impact extends far beyond the fairness and opposing policies bad for ing men and women, and so much bills that she passed and the commit- our Nation. She was a fierce orator more. tees that she chaired. She was the first with a sharp wit. When she disagreed New York, the Congress, and our woman to chair most of the commit- with how this House was doing busi- country have suffered an immeasurable tees that she became part of. During ness, she let it be known. loss. I do pray that Congresswoman her 31 years in Congress, she was a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.082 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3386 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 mentor to many female Members and, with us in the Assembly for 4 years and Kentucky, Louise quickly became a because of that, played a major role in then she came here. I trailed her by an- true native daughter of upstate New shaping our party and coalition we are other 6 years. York, exemplifying its values and rep- today. She always was a champion of up- resenting her fellow constituents with She was a leader for New York, and state New York, which caused people the zeal and tenacity that was she was a leader for Democrats in New to do a double take when they heard unrivaled in her storied tenure. York. She was one of the first Demo- her southern lilt. She was a champion Becoming the first woman to chair crats to be elected in upstate New of so many things before their time. the House Rules Committee, Congress- York, and everyone running for office She was a champion for women’s woman Slaughter was a pioneer in her in upstate New York, the first person rights. She was a passionate leader as advocacy for issues ranging from con- they went to was Louise Slaughter. co-chair of the Pro-Choice Caucus for gressional transparency to health pro- I am proud to have called her a dear many years. She protected the freedom tections for those with preexisting con- friend and mentor and grateful to be of every woman to live, work, and start ditions. able to pay tribute to her and to say a family on her own terms. I had the distinct honor, pleasure, thank you to her and her family. She She was, as you have heard, the and privilege to work with Representa- adored her late husband, Bob, and we chairman at one point, the leading tive Slaughter on a whole host of all appreciate the great impact she had Democrat on the House Rules Com- issues that affect our neighboring com- on me, on this Congress, and on our Na- mittee. She was tough, determined, munities in upstate New York and the tion. and compassionate, and she was a Nation at large. Whether it was tack- Louise, we miss you. You are in our fighter. She was a fighter for the vul- ling the opioid epidemic, or ensuring hearts. Thank you, dear friend. nerable and those without a voice. our citizens had access to clean drink- Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I now yield She was a microbiologist before she ing water, I am proud, but humbled, to to Representative YVETTE CLARKE of came into politics. And she left a last- say Louise and I worked side by side. New York’s Ninth Congressional Dis- ing imprint of that with her Genetic For Louise, the interest of her con- trict. Information Nondiscrimination Act stituents and fellow Americans rose Ms. CLARKE of New York. Mr. when we started to get the ability to above all else as she embodied the true Speaker, I thank Representative TONKO deal with the genomics. She under- meaning of bipartisanship, readily for leading this Special Order hour in stood before anybody else the poten- reaching across the aisle to people like commemoration of our dear colleague, tials for good and for bad, and she me, in spite of party or public pressure, the Honorable Louise Slaughter. wrote and eventually got into law the to achieve the common good. Mr. Speaker, I join my colleagues on Genetic Information Nondiscrimina- Rest peacefully, Louise. I will miss the floor today to honor a remarkable tion Act so people wouldn’t be dis- your lovely demeanor and your won- woman. Words just couldn’t adequately criminated against on the basis of their derful smile. capture the sense of sadness I felt after genetic traits. Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I now yield hearing of the loss of Congresswoman She wrote the STOCK Act, to pro- to Representative JOHN LEWIS, who Louise Slaughter, the dean of the New hibit Congress Members from trading represents Georgia’s Fifth Congres- York delegation. on inside knowledge, which not every sional District. Louise dedicated her life’s work to Member of Congress was thrilled with. Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, the people of western New York and, But she was more than just her legisla- I thank the gentleman, Brother PAUL, indeed, all Americans across our great tive accomplishments. She was a gra- for yielding. Nation. She embodied a spirit of cious and true friend who brought joy It is hard. It is difficult to stand here strength, wisdom, and grace, and she and laughter into every room, and she and know that Sister Louise Slaughter was beautiful inside and out. She rep- had a great sense of humor. is not here. We came to Congress to- resented the very best of the American When she ran for Congress the first gether, and, from time to time, she spirit, our values, and our ideals. time, she ran against an incumbent would call me Brother JOHN. I loved Louise was a trailblazer and was the who, being in the minority party at Sister Louise. first woman to serve as chair and rank- that time, was in the habit of voting She would talk. She would laugh. She ing member of the powerful House ‘‘no’’ on a lot of things. And she labeled was smart, gifted, and brave. She was Rules Committee. She commanded the him in the campaign as the ‘‘Abomi- courageous and sometimes very bold. I respect and admiration of all of her nable No-Man.’’ So she had a sense of will never forget the trip to Rochester colleagues. Having had the honor of humor which other people appreciated, to be with her and see how the people serving with Louise has enriched my and she will long be remembered for loved her, adored her. I think when God passion for service and my commit- her sense of humor, for her decency, created Sister Louise, he destroyed the ment to fight for the most vulnerable her humanity, and her tireless, fearless mold. She was one of a kind, so won- amongst us. work for everyone. derful. I miss her every single day. Louise was indeed a woman on whose The Halls of the Capitol feel dimin- I thank Brother PAUL for doing this. shoulders I stand. The United States ished without her. And I have realized Sister Louise would be very proud of Congress has lost an esteemed leader, over the last few weeks how lucky we him. the New York delegation has lost a be- all were to know her, to work with her, Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I thank loved dean, and I have lost a cherished to call her a friend. We will always Brother JOHN for his comments. friend and mentor. miss her, and this institution will be Mr. Speaker, I now yield to Rep- It was my great privilege to serve diminished by her absence. resentative NANCY PELOSI from Cali- with Louise Slaughter, and she is Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I now yield fornia, our former Speaker, our Demo- missed immensely. to Representative JOHN KATKO from cratic leader, our minority leader. Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to New York’s 24th Congressional Dis- Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I think the gentleman from New York (Mr. trict. this may have happened to me at the NADLER) from New York’s 10th Con- Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I want to funeral as well when I followed JOHN gressional District. thank the gentleman for yielding. LEWIS at the podium. What a task. I Mr. NADLER. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor thank the gentleman for being such an the gentleman for yielding. the life of one of my dear friends and inspiration and thank him for loving Mr. Speaker, I am heartbroken at the colleagues, Representative Dorothy Louise so much as we know she loved loss of Louise Slaughter, who was a Louise McIntosh Slaughter. Brother JOHN as well. dear friend and a beloved colleague. I Congresswoman Slaughter passed Aren’t we proud of PAUL TONKO and first met Louise when she was elected away last month at the age of 88 after his relationship with Louise, a friend- to the New York State Assembly in more than 31 years of service in the ship that goes back to the State legis- 1982, and ELIOT ENGEL and Louise House of Representatives representing lature many years ago in New York. Slaughter and I sat next to each other the people of Rochester, New York. Louise came 31 years ago to the Con- on the Assembly floor. She was only Born a coal miner’s daughter from gress. He came more recently, but his

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.086 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3387 friendship goes back longer. So dear that. When our country was attacked to our friend, Louise McIntosh Slaugh- was he to her. and the Congress went out in front of ter, born in Harlan County, Kentucky, So here we have Louise—and I don’t the Capitol, it was Congresswoman who wrote fresh pages in American his- have a magic minute, so this is not an Slaughter who started singing ‘‘God tory. 8-hour proposition in high heels, al- Bless America,’’ and everyone joined in There ought to be a statue at Seneca though I would love to do that for Lou- on that. Falls that honors her service to Amer- ise any time—but let me just make She was not only proud to represent ica. It was astounding. some wishes. I wish you could have all the home of the feminists, those revo- She became one of only 288 women in been in Rochester for Louise’s memo- lutionaries, she was one herself, and American history to be elected to this rial service to hear her grandchildren she was damn proud of it. She wasn’t House of Representatives, and she, as talk about her. an apologist for any of it. She was with all women Members who have As a grandmother myself, and any proud of it because she understood that served as House Members, was vividly time I go to a service now, I think: that was what was going to move aware she was an American pioneer, as What do the grandchildren think? America forward. only 3 percent of individuals who have What do they know about their grand- She loved this House. She had a home ever served here to date have been mother? Do they know how much their on the Hill, and she had a home in her women. grandmother loved them? Louise’s district, but she loved this House. She What a marvelous person she was to grandchildren do and did. Hopefully we used to stand right here. This is where be with. We had the privilege of serving will be hearing more from them. she did her work. together for over three decades. Her b 1815 Mr. Speaker, don’t cross Louise. acuity, her passion, her perseverance, They spoke magnificently about her Don’t ever cross Louise. She was a and her sparkling humor and keen personally—not so great about her lady, but I will tell you something, you mind brought new life and direction to cooking, not that day anyway. But, would feel the wrath of Louise Slaugh- our republic and to every Member here. anyway, they just loved her so much. ter if you went the other way on her. She was a treasured friend and, yes, She was about the future, but she had The way I will always remember Lou- dean of the New York delegation. She a tremendous respect for the past as ise is that she knew how to love. She also became the first woman to ever well. So when many of us, Brother knew how to love well. She had a chair the exclusive Rules Committee, a JOHN, visited her in Rochester, we fierceness about her in taking care of committee whose unusually round-the- would go to Susan B. Anthony’s home her constituents. They belonged to her, clock schedule required members to to see where so much of women’s rights and she belonged to them. As the lead- work through the night and into the began. She would take us across the er recalled, the tribute they paid to her wee hours of the morning, often past borderline of the district to see where at her memorial I think was second to midnight, or convening at the crack of it all began at Seneca Falls. She took none. dawn. It wasn’t an easy job. That com- such ownership of our suffragettes and So, Louise, my friend, no one is ever mittee is a place of grueling endurance, her responsibility to carry forth their going to fill your shoes around here, and yet she traversed that brutal track courage and their possibilities for the but we stand taller because we knew day in and day out without a whimper. future. you. How she could remain crisp on subse- She was a Southern belle with a She showed us the right way to be a quent floor debates on hundreds and Southern charm and a Northern time- friend, the best way to represent peo- hundreds of bills and amendments table. So you never wanted to waste ple, and how to fight tough and fight managing thousands of details is a too much time not giving in to Louise hard for the right things. vivid testimony to her mental and because eventually she would have her I loved Louise’s accent. When you physical strength which she devoted to way. Save yourself some time: What- would see her on the floor, she would our Nation. ever you say, Louise. say: ANNA, have I told you this week She was gracious to a fault. I recall She was a beautiful person to serve that I just love you? her inviting Members to her Rules with. Many of our colleagues want to When she spoke, it was as if her Committee office always helping Mem- speak about her. I will have another words were just a security blanket bers to feel at home here. opportunity tomorrow, but I did want around you. You knew that she meant As the eldest woman in the House to add my voice, once again, to our col- it. It was tender, it was loving, and you with 88 years of experience, Louise leagues’, as we speak about her with knew that you had one of the best part- Slaughter brought wisdom that served great respect, admiration, and affec- ners you could ever have in any under- America superbly. She was dedicated tion that is about Louise Slaughter. taking. to the working people of our country Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to I think that Louise is very happy in and to the rights of women. She never the gentlewoman from California (Ms. heaven. I have no doubt that she is stopped giving. ESHOO). Representative ANNA ESHOO chairing the big Rules Committee in The daughter of a blacksmith who represents the 18th District. the sky. I have no doubt that when she worked in a Kentucky coal mine, she Ms. ESHOO. Mr. Speaker, I thank our got to the gate, there was absolutely was a tireless advocate for workers in colleague and dear friend, PAUL TONKO, no discussion whatsoever as to whether Rochester in places like Kodak or for organizing this Special Order. she was going to take a high place in Xerox, and she stood shoulder to shoul- Mr. Speaker, to all of Congress- heaven because of everything that she der with her community and fought woman Slaughter’s staff that is here, did on Earth. with full soul against bad trade deals we pay tribute to them. She loved So, Louise, be happy there. You that she correctly feared would hollow them, and she would talk about each earned it. out her community’s jobs and in turn one of them. I don’t know which one is We miss her here, but we know that the American middle class. She was which, but she thought that we all her spirit is with us, it always will be, right, and she never gave up fighting knew which one was which. She had all and that we will love her across eter- for them. the stories straight. She was so proud nity. She coauthored the Violence Against of them. There was a poet that wrote these beau- Women Act and fought full bore for There is so much to be said about tiful words: So she passed over, and all the equal pay for equal work and stood tall Louise. She was a great mother. She trumpets sounded for her on the other side. her whole career in our effort to make was a fabulous wife to Bob. She was a God rest you, Louise. our Nation more just and equal. microbiologist. She was a great grand- Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to Last night, I attended an event at the mother. She represented a district in the gentlewoman from Ohio (Ms. KAP- United States Holocaust Memorial Mu- western New York with a Kentucky ac- TUR.) Congresswoman MARCY KAPTUR seum, and one of the women docents cent. I don’t think that will ever hap- represents Ohio’s Ninth District. took me around. I told her what hap- pen again. Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, what a pened to Louise, and she said: Oh, my She had a beautiful singing voice. I privilege it is to be with our colleagues goodness. I am from upstate New York. don’t know how many Members know tonight to join together to pay tribute I was her constituent. She gave me a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:55 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.087 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3388 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 ticket when I was a Girl Scout to come her home district. But if they came to tucky where she earned degrees in microbi- to Washington, and look what I am the Rules Committee, either when Lou- ology and public health, Louise Slaughter un- doing now, a very high-level person at ise was a member or senior member or derstood the connection between public health that museum. the ranking member or chair, her as- and a vibrant democracy, and fought to en- I said: Louise’s gifts keep on giving. tuteness and genius, her sharp wit, her sure passage of the landmark Affordable Care A grateful Nation thanks Louise reminding members that she was the Act. Slaughter and her husband, Bob, who chair, that we could learn from her if In the 112th Congress, Congresswoman was at her side for so many, many we decided to do so. Louise Slaughter introduced and shepherded years, and her beautiful daughters, I know personally, as a frequent vis- to passage Pub. L. 112–105, the ‘‘Stop Trad- grandchildren, and all the constituents itor to the Rules Committee, Louise ing on Congressional Knowledge Act’’ or from the greater Rochester area. She Slaughter was in charge and the first ‘‘STOCK Act,’’ which prohibits the use of non- will be truly, truly missed. woman chair of this powerful com- public information for private profit, including Through her passionate and loving mittee. I learned fast from her. I can- insider trading by members of Congress and work for America and commitment to not thank her enough for teaching a other government employees, and requires liberty, she has helped make America a new Member at that time of the works many financial transactions by members of much more just and equal nation. and the goings-on and the protocols of Congress to be reported within 45 days. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague, the Rules Committee and how to do it Mr. Speaker, since her first years on Capitol PAUL TONKO, for his love of Louise and right. Hill, Congresswoman Louise Slaughter was an for always sitting with her and for en- She never lost her humor and her advocate for women all over the world. joying and sharing these years. He has wonderful Southern twang. Of course, Among her many accomplishments, Con- done a superb, masterful job this who would be better leading Seneca gresswoman Louise Slaughter co-authored the evening of paying full tribute to her Falls than Louise McIntosh Slaughter? landmark Violence Against Women Act, en- and her life. I thank her for her fight for women’s sured the first federal funding to the National Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I thank rights and as well for taking me to Ni- Institutes of Health to research breast cancer, Representative KAPTUR. agara Falls as a member of the Home- and was a co-founder of the Congressional Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentle- land Security Committee. Pro-Choice Caucus. woman from Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE). So, finally, as I close, I am reminded Representative SHEILA JACKSON LEE is that Congresswoman Slaughter had an It is particularly fitting and altogether appro- the Congresswoman from the 18th Dis- iron fist in a velvet glove, and I loved priate that this tireless champion of women, trict of Texas. it. I loved her wit, and I loved the fact children, and families represented an area Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I that she was a true American. near Seneca Falls, the location of the first thank Congressman TONKO so very So my prayer is that the Lord bring women’s rights convention in 1848. much for yielding. He was a dear, dear comfort to the many people, those who The dean of New York’s Congressional Del- friend of Louise. Louise knew and those who felt they egation, Louise Slaughter was the first woman I rise today to really highlight the knew Louise Slaughter, who know that to chair the powerful House Rules Committee, sunshine that Congresswoman Louise a mighty oak has fallen and are heart- and the first woman to serve as Ranking McIntosh Slaughter really was to all of broken at her loss. I ask that God bless Member of that Committee, and in both roles us. I am reminded of that day when her, may God rest her, and as well may she carried the banner and led the fight for those two planes landed in Rochester, God bless her constituents as God progressive values and to make our good New York, her beloved community. It blesses the United States of America. country better. was a bright, sunny day, but it was al- Farewell, Congresswoman Louise I will always remember and be grateful to most amazing as the buses drew up to McIntosh Slaughter, you will never be Congresswoman Louise Slaughter for her help the place of her funeral and the lines forgotten, and you will always be re- in my duties representing the people of the and lines of Rochester citizens, her membered. 18th Congressional District of Texas. constituents, who were lining up two I want to thank my colleague PAUL TONKO, I worked closely with Congresswoman Lou- by two, waiting to come to honor her. for organizing this session honoring our ise Slaughter and drew upon her counsel and That was a true testimony to what shared friend. assistance to shepherd scores of bills and Louise Slaughter and Bob, her hus- I rise today in remembrance of my dear amendments to passage that have been bene- band, were to that community. They friend and our beloved colleague, Congress- ficial to my constituents. loved that community, and that com- woman Louise McIntosh Slaughter of New Louise Slaughter was incredibly generous munity loved her. Eighty-eight years York, a trailblazer for women, whose powerful with her knowledge and experience and of youth, because she was young, vi- voice was quieted this past March 16, 2018. served as a mentor to new members of Con- brant, and ready. Louise Slaughter lived a long, full, and con- gress, including me. I am delighted to acknowledge so sequential life and got the most out of the 88 I will never forget that Louise Slaughter’s much that she did in the areas of wom- years she graced this world. advocacy continued until her last days with us, en’s rights and empowerment, the arts, She will be remembered in this House for including National Women’s March in Wash- healthcare, the battlefield prepared- her service to her constituents and her col- ington, D.C. on January 21, 2017. ness, economic revitalization, the envi- leagues, her formidable intellect, her mastery Mr. Speaker, Louise Slaughter was an iron ronment, and social justice, and, of of the legislative process, and her gracious- fist in a velvet glove. course, her work dealing with the issue ness and kindness to all who came in contact A native of Kentucky, Louise Slaughter of genetics that, really, a lot of people with her. never lost her Southern twang and charm. in Congress didn’t even understand, but After serving four years in the New York Louise Slaughter effortlessly mixed humor Louise with her expertise in microbi- State Assembly, Louise Slaughter was elected with logic to win over skeptics. ology, there she was educating all of to the 100th Congress in 1986 to represent us. the 30th Congressional District of New York, And then after disarming you, Louise As far as her leadership on the Af- which at the time included downtown and Slaughter made her move. fordable Care Act, she was one of the eastern Rochester, most of eastern Monroe Through her words and deeds, Louise soldiers and generals who made sure County, all of Genesee County and northern Slaughter worked to make the lives of all that it passed, and as well her great Livingston and Ontario counties. Americans better. work in dealing with the Violence Reelected to the 15 succeeding Congresses Louise Slaughter was a dear friend and her Against Women Act and the STOCK Louise Slaughter carved out a legacy of lead- loss leaves a void in my heart. Act to make sure that we, as Members ership and accomplishments in the areas of It is my prayer that the Lord brings comfort of Congress, did the right thing finan- women’s rights and empowerment, the arts, to the many people—those whom Louise cially. health care, battlefield preparedness, eco- knew and those who felt they knew Louise But I want to emphasize the tutoring nomic revitalization, the environment, and so- Slaughter—who know that a mighty oak has that Louise Slaughter gave to me. I cial justice. fallen and are heartbroken at the loss. want to thank her staff who is sitting Born in the coal mining town of Lynch, Ken- I thank her family for sharing her with us back in this Chamber, and her staff in tucky and educated at the University of Ken- and the country.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.089 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3389 b 1830 story. They will share a story about Mr. Speaker, and to our leader, Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield to her sense of humor. Yet Louise was NANCY PELOSI, I hope that we take the Representative BARBARA LEE of Cali- very direct. She did not mince her time to name the STOCK Act after fornia’s 13th District. words. She was a straight shooter, and Louise Slaughter. Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, first let me you never had to guess where she was Louise and I spent wonderful eve- nings together with PAUL TONKO and thank Congressman TONKO for leading coming from. this important hour in memory of our I remember when her dear husband, MARCY KAPTUR at dinner at the Na- tional Democratic Club. She kept us in beloved friend and colleague, Congress- Bob, passed. stitches. She did not suffer fools glad- woman Louise Slaughter. Every time I I got to know Bob because we trav- ly, and she would see a phony $2 bill of walk on this floor, I still look for Lou- eled together several times. When Louise came back, she told me: a Member on the floor and not mince ise. Actually, PAUL, right there. The Honey, I couldn’t live if I didn’t have words. void that she has left is just unbear- this job. I love serving the people of my She also taught me to speak South- able. district. I love helping the people of ern. She taught me that you should say Her passing was devastating news for western New York. I love serving this ‘‘bless your sweet heart,’’ which really all of us here, but I must once again country. meant, ‘‘move over,’’ expletive deleted. send my thoughts and condolences to This was her life’s work. I will always remember her lying her beautiful daughters, her grand- Finally, let me just say I not only peacefully in the hospital, with per- children, to her entire congressional lost a colleague, but also a dear friend. fectly coifed hair, as only a lady would district, the State of New York, and My prayers are with her family and have, and a faint smile on her face. I really, to our entire country. friends, her staff, her district. Louise like to think that she was smiling be- Louise was a dear friend and mentor, will have a lasting place in history, cause she left this world with her boots and she was an unparalleled legislator. though, and her spirit is with us to- on. She was still fighting for her con- Of course, she loved her district and night. She was a woman who exuded stituents, taking her last breaths with fought for them with passion, intellect, grace, dignity, intelligence, and she dignity, strength, elegance, and at and dedication. touched and enriched all our lives. peace, with her three daughters look- I also want to say to Louise’s staff Louise, we will miss you so much. ing on with love and admiration. how much I know, like ANNA said, that May you rest in peace. May God bless Louise, you are now with your be- she loved you and she respected you. I you. loved Bob. We all here, including your have to say, around here poaching is a And again, I thank PAUL for this op- extraordinary staff who is seated here no-no. Well, Louise poached one of my portunity. in the Chamber, are heartbroken. We staff members, and I told her. And Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I now yield are, frankly, still in shock. But we are when we talked about it, I said: I am so to Representative JACKIE SPEIER of deeply grateful to have known and to happy, Louise. You are the only Mem- California’s 14th District. love you. ber that I would be happy about poach- Ms. SPEIER. Mr. Speaker, thank God bless you always. ing. you, and I thank my dear friend, PAUL Mr. TONKO. I thank the Congress- And so thank you, all, because I TONKO, who loved Louise like no one woman for those comments. know she loved you, and I was happy to else in this Chamber, for arranging this I now yield to Representative ALMA allow Louise to poach my staff because for us tonight. ADAMS of North Carolina’s 12th Dis- she did an incredible job for Louise. Tom Jones had a song, ‘‘She’s a trict. Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, I thank Louise invited me to her district sev- Lady.’’ Louise Slaughter was that lady, eral times. I tell you, the love and the my colleague for yielding. except none of the other lyrics of that Mr. Speaker, I rise to honor the life respect all across her district, I wit- song were appropriate for Louise. She nessed. I said, if only my district saw and legacy of my dear friend, Congress- was a lady who was tough as nails, woman Louise Slaughter. I didn’t know this, how she brought people together, with a steel backbone and a sharp and her as long as many of my colleagues, because I think we could learn a lot very funny tongue. but our brief association was profound from Louise’s ability to build coali- There are many people I like in our and meaningful. tions. Chamber, few I truly love. I loved Lou- When I came to Congress 4 years ago, I remember when I first came to Con- ise Slaughter. Louise Slaughter was one of the first gress, yes, 20 years ago—April 21, it Members come and go and hardly to welcome me. She was always gen- will be 20 years—Louise came up to me leave a footprint around here, even uine, kind, and personally supportive, and she said: Honey. Members who have served long periods always pleasant, and she always made She called everybody ‘‘Honey,’’ as of time. That is not true about Louise. you feel really good. you know. I still did it today. I walk onto this As a history-making, trailblazing She said: I want to be your friend, floor seeking her out. I look at C– champion of women’s rights and the and I want to get to know you. SPAN and expect to see her presenting only microbiologist, as you have heard, She said: I want to invite you to another cogent argument on the inane in Congress, Louise Slaughter fought come up to Seneca Falls to mark the closed rule offered by the other side. for opportunity for all people. The im- 150th anniversary of the Declaration of There is a void in this Chamber with pact of her years of advocacy and Sentiments. her passing, but her footprints are ev- mentorship and friendship can be seen I tell you, that was quite a remark- erywhere. here today in the many colleagues who able moment for me to be with Louise Louise distinguished herself in so are standing together to honor her life. Slaughter, and we became close friends many issues and in so many ways: the Louise was a champion for the people from that day forward. first woman, as we have said over and from the great State of New York, but She was a trailblazer, the only micro- over again, to represent western New I like to think of her with Kentucky biologist in Congress. She had a Ph.D. York; the first woman to chair the roots and a Southern accent, as a fel- She was brilliant. Also, watching Lou- Rules Committee. low Southerner at heart. She left big ise work late into the night, past mid- Now, as an 88-year-old woman, she shoes to fill, but I know she would be night, but yet she stayed engaged and was chairing this committee into the proud to welcome in the next genera- energized no matter how late the Rules wee hours of the morning, day after tion of leaders. Committee worked. She used her role, day, and never lost a beat. So I join my colleagues this evening though, as chair to fight for children She is one of the longest serving in expressing my deepest sympathies and for families, for women, for com- Members. She is the only microbiolo- for the family, for the friends, for the munities of color, for those living gist. She was responsible for creating staff, and for the constituents that she below the poverty line. the first $500 million set-aside for leaves behind. She may no longer be Another remarkable thing about breast cancer research. She created the with us on Earth, but her spirit and her Louise was her humor. Any Member of Office of Research on Women’s Health, passion for life will live on for genera- Congress, just ask anyone, Republican and she is responsible for the passage tions to come. She clearly made our or Democrat, and they will tell you a of the STOCK Act. world much better than she found it.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:55 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.090 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3390 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 Mr. TONKO. I thank the Congress- myself, knowing that Louise had been souls. And to our champion, our trail- woman for her thoughts. here a few years more than I had, to blazer, the true voice for the weak Mr. Speaker, I now yield to the New learn what her age was at the time of voice or underheard in government, the Hampshire District One Representa- her passing, because she was out pow- pioneer expression, the drum major for tive, Congresswoman CAROL SHEA-POR- erfully speaking truth to power right women, it goes on and on—she earned TER. up until the week before she passed. so many labels—to our friend, Louise Ms. SHEA-PORTER. Thank you, Con- She had the enthusiastic support of Slaughter, our colleague, our mentor, gressman TONKO, for yielding. I know her late husband and tremendous part- rest in peace, beloved friend. how close you were to Louise and how ner, Bob. Both of them understood the Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance much she loved you and you loved her. challenges of public service, and they of my time. I offer my condolences not only to withstood repeated Republican assaults Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, it is with a Louise’s family, but also to Paul and to with wit and grit. Her fierce passion heavy heart that I rise to remember my col- the entire Chamber, and to me, because was matched with sincere compassion league from New York, the former dean of our I loved Louise, also. You hear people and kindness. delegation and the first woman to chair the using the word ‘‘love’’ here. It was very Over the years, time and time again, House Rules Committee, Louise McIntosh genuine. she reached out and helped me and Slaughter. Louise was a wonderful soul whose When I arrived in January of 2007, I helped other Members. I admired her love of public service, the institution of Con- saw the fire in Louise and I saw the unwavering commitment to speak gress, and her home of western New York honey in Louise. She was a mixture of truth and to honor values of accept- each and every day. both. That is what made her so abso- ance, equality, and justice. She put the Louise grew up in a coal mining community lutely delightful. I saw her as the new health and well-being of people first, in Kentucky as one of 5 children. Inspired by chairman of the Rules Committee take and she fought tirelessly to improve the loss of her sister to pneumonia as a child, on our friends across the aisle about so the lives of the people in her commu- Louise chose to study microbiology and pur- many issues here, and she had that fire nity and across this country. sue a master’s degree in public health. Her in her. But then I saw her with the passion for health care inspired her work b 1845 honey and the sweetness, and that is throughout her career as she championed nu- why people use the word ‘‘love’’ when Louise showed just how much one de- merous bills and efforts to help the American they talk about Louise. termined woman can do for our coun- people gain real access to care. So I want to tell just a very short try. As chair of the Rules Committee, After obtaining her degrees, Louise met her story about my first real close encoun- she was involved in every major piece husband, Robert, and the couple moved to ter with Louise Slaughter. of legislation and many minor ones New York. While living near Rochester, Louise I had a dear friend in New Hampshire that came before this House. And in became involved in local community groups who very much admired Louise and her service on Rules, it can certainly and eventually sought to get involved in elec- wanted to meet her. I said: She is busy. be said that she worked day and night, toral politics. Her long career in public service She has just taken over this new posi- sometimes all night, on behalf of the took Louise from the county legislature to Gov. Mario Cuomo’s staff, the New York State As- tion. And I am new, but okay, I will people of this country. sembly, and eventually the Congress. ask her. She overcame significant resistance I had the honor of serving alongside Louise So we were walking there, and I to secure passage of the Violence in the Assembly before eventually joining her called Louise over, and I said: Louise, I Against Women Act, achieving some in Congress. She had a perfect blend of would like to introduce you to some- historic increases in funding for wom- en’s health. She was a real trailblazer southern charm and New York hustle, and body who just has always admired you. was a steadfast champion for the people of Louise said: Honey, have her come when it came to so many issues and in- western New York and Americans across the into my office. spired so many women to get involved country. I will miss her relentless passion, her So we did. And Louise sat down on and make a difference for our country. wit, and above all, her friendship. I know Mon- the couch like she didn’t have a thing She authored the STOCK Act to en- roe County and the city of Rochester will miss to do that day except to entertain us sure more complete and timely disclo- their longtime champion. sure of financial dealings by the Mem- with tea and small talk and just her Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, Louise Slaughter bers of this House so that no one was warmth and her vibrancy. My friend was a scientist, and she approached her work never forgot that. I never forgot that trading off the public trust for private in this House with scientific precision. She either. That was Louise, absolutely full gain. found that special formula for success: mix an of love and, as I said, full of honey and I think of Louise and look over to extraordinary work ethic with a deep intellect also full of fire. this microphone each time a rule is and love of her community, and the result was We miss her very much here. We al- brought up in the House setting forth thirty-one years of excellence serving New ways will. the terms of debate for legislation. Yorkers in Congress. I was deeply saddened Condolences to her staff, who loved There is a vacancy in the House, and to learn of her passing last month, and I will her as well, and I know that she loved there is a vacancy in our hearts for a look back fondly on the three decades we them. And to the people of western tough but generous woman. served together in this House. New York, thank you for sharing her We salute her daughters, Megan, As the daughter of a coal mine blacksmith, with us for so long. Amy, and Emily; her grandchildren; Louise grew up around hardship and chal- Mr. TONKO. I thank the Congress- her great-grandchild, all of whom she lenge. Later, as a microbiologist and an elect- woman for those comments. often referred to and showed such great ed official, she made public health and eco- Mr. Speaker, now we will hear from affection for. May it be a source of nomic opportunity her focus. In Congress, she the gentleman from Texas 35, Congress- comfort for each of them that their fought for funding for women’s health, to keep man LLOYD DOGGETT. mother was a loyal and loving friend, a our troops safer in combat, and to crack down Mr. DOGGETT. I thank Mr. TONKO so fierce and genuine public servant, a on domestic violence. As Chairwoman of the much for organizing this Special Order. force to be reckoned with, a champion Rules Committee, she played a key role in ad- I do know how special that Louise was for so many vital causes; and may her vancing to the Floor major legislation, includ- to you and to so many of us. She was very fiery spirit live on with all of us. ing the Recovery Act, Affordable Care Act, a dear friend for many years, an out- Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, there you Dodd-Frank Wall Street reform, and the Don’t spoken advocate for social and eco- have it, just a few of the colleagues of Ask Don’t Tell Repeal Act. nomic justice, and she put together a Louise Slaughter who shared their sen- None of us who served with her ever doubt- great team, a series of teams through timents. You can tell that she had this ed her tenacity or resolve. Louise never forgot her years here, some of whom are on lasting touch upon each and every one her roots or the constituents who sent her the floor today. We salute them, also. of us. back to Congress year after year. Her loss is Louise was funny, she was sometimes We are made better because we a great loss for this House, for the people of a bit conspiratorial, and she was a per- crossed paths in life, we travelled jour- upstate New York, and for our country. I join son who just refused to act her age in neys together, and she will leave a for- in offering my condolences to her daughters the best ways possible. I was amazed ever quality in our hearts and our Megan, Amy, and Emily and their families.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.091 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3391 WHAT IS HAPPENING IN OUR or because it has been easier to say looking for a unified theory. It is not NATION’S DEBT things like: Well, the problem is waste just entitlement reform because, let’s The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. and fraud. There are problems with face it, that is the third rail. People go KUSTOFF of Tennessee). Under the waste and fraud, but the numbers are nuts. They run attack ads on you. It is Speaker’s announced policy of January tiny compared to what is about to hap- more complicated. We need to do those 3, 2017, the gentleman from Arizona pen. things in our society that help people be employed, do tax regulatory poli- (Mr. SCHWEIKERT) is recognized for 60 So, some baseline math. When I was minutes as the designee of the major- born, 1962, there were five workers for cies, training policies, opportunity ity leader. every one retiree. Today—and let’s ac- policies, because the more of our broth- Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, as I tually do 12 years from now, because ers and sisters who are working—how get myself organized here, this evening that is when it gets dramatic. Twelve do we go from 63 percent labor force I am going to actually try to do some- years from now, there will only be two. participation, which is a wonderful thing that is probably a little dan- You and your spouse will be covering number from where we thought we gerous and a little tricky. I am going one retiree. So, in just my lifetime, we would be 10 years ago till now, how do to try to do some math from behind have gone from five workers for one re- we get it to go further? How do we get more of our brothers the microphone. tiree to two. You know, we have a running joke in The math is brutal. So think about and sisters to move from being the our office that being a Member of Con- this. Over the last decade—so from 2008 long-term unemployed, the discouraged gress means you often work in a math- to 2018—if you actually look at the workers, and get them to move into free zone but the math always wins. growth in the size of spending in the the opportunities that are out there And, you know, to our friends over government, 72 percent of it was just right now because we have, apparently, here, I guess I should—I don’t mean to Social Security and Medicare. So if millions of jobs that are looking for jump onto this, but we just heard some you actually look at the growth of the workers, but it also does powerful of the discussion about Ms. Slaughter. Federal spending, do understand, over things to these numbers? I am, obviously, from a different part the last 10 years, 72 percent of that We are also going to have to be hon- est about mechanisms within immigra- of the country, a different party, dif- growth were just those two programs: tion. We have a birthrate crisis in this ferent philosophy, and she was always Social Security and Medicare. country. The last few years, if you ac- incredibly kind to me and funny. Most Over the next 10 years, just the tually look at the number of babies we people, I don’t know, completely under- growth will be about $1.3 trillion. That are having, our numbers have substan- stood. She had a brutal wit, and so a is, functionally, just the growth in So- tially collapsed. couple of times, when I would go in cial Security and Medicare will be two full Defense Departments. It is impor- Well, remember, today’s child is to- front of the Rules Committee, some- morrow’s worker; and if in today’s times the banter back and forth, you tant to get our head around telling the truth, because if we are going to save world, when you turn 65 and begin sat there and go: Is she just playing some of your benefits, the math is, you these earned entitlements, we need to with me? So just for my friends that will spend about one-third of your have that moment of reflection that are just leaving from that. adult life in retirement, but we don’t comes off of a calculator instead of All right. So I am going to try to do have enough young people because what happens so often behind these a couple of things here, Mr. Speaker. I these programs are pay-as-you-go pro- microphones where we try to make am going to actually sort of walk grams. That is really important as we public policy by feelings. through what was in the most recent sort of walk through the math. So, first board I have up here, this is CBO report, but also a couple of the So if you are looking for that unified from the latest CBO report, which I ac- previous CBO reports and what is hap- theory, it even adds in things like pening in our Nation’s debt. At the tually have in here, which I am trying trade. If we are going to be a country same time, I am also going to talk to keep from falling off the podium that is very slow on our birthrate and about some of the positive things that here, and there is actually some good immigration, we have designed a tal- are happening, and some of it because news here. And, that is, because of ent-based immigration system that of the tax reform, some of the things what is going on the last couple of also does some rewards for younger de- that are happening in our unemploy- quarters, this last year, substantially, mographics, but we are also going to ment and opportunity out there. I believe, because of what is happening have to have trade with countries that So, first off, let’s walk through a cou- through growth-oriented policies, also have positive demographics so we ple of baseline numbers, and then I am whether it be the tax reform, whether actually have customers. going to grind through these so it tells it be what is happening in the regu- There are lots of these things that all a story of where we are going and latory environment, you are actually have to be thought of together. And where we are at as a country. seeing revenue into the trust funds go something I am not going to do to- When we get behind these micro- up a bit. night, but I have done other evenings phones and say, ‘‘We have an entitle- It is still a crisis, but if you actually and we will do in a month or so, is a ment crisis coming that we have to look at SSDI, which is Social Security fixation on technology and how tech- deal with,’’ they have been saying it Disability Insurance, I think it was nology also can provide amazing oppor- behind these microphones for 30 years. maybe 11⁄2, 2 years ago I got behind this tunity in everything from changing the Well, it is here. The peak of the baby microphone, and there were only like 4 healthcare curve to actually allowing boom, I think, today, is about 62 years years left in the trust fund, and it went more of our brothers and sisters to par- old. There are 74 million of us who are to zero. ticipate in the workforce, even those baby boomers, who will be moving into Well, we gained almost 3 additional with certain difficulties in life or even our benefits, and we don’t have the re- years. Now, some of that is because of those who may be older but choose to sources to cover our promises, the way policy, some of it is because of reve- work. Instead of being scared of tech- things are structured today. nues because we have so many more nology, I think it may be our solution, Yet if you look at the Pew poll from people working right now. If you actu- depending on some of these cost curves. a couple of years ago, only 15 percent ally also take a look at some of the So what is important here is, as you of Republicans believe there is an enti- money going into Social Security, look at this chart, just take a look at tlement crisis coming, but only 5 per- some of the money going into Medicare this first number here. That is the So- cent of Democrats believe it. So this is part A, that is the trust fund portion, cial Security trust fund. Now, as you one of the great difficulties in this we are actually picking up a couple of know, our general fund has taken that body where you often hear us saying: years—1 year here, 2 years there—in money and borrowed it, and then we re- Speak truth to power. Well, how about additional actuarial soundness of the place it with sort of special Social Se- math to power? trust funds. curity IOUs. Well, what about our own constitu- Think of this as an opportunity. If we Now, if I remember correctly, last ents when they don’t believe us be- are going to have to make policy—and year we were paying the Social Secu- cause maybe there has been crying wolf as I stand behind this microphone, I am rity trust fund like 3.1 percent interest

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.094 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3392 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 for those borrowed moneys. So when This is a chart that I have never seen going to squeeze out so many of the you see some of the future slides here, on the floor before, but is a really in- other things that are happening, but or boards, you will actually see, here is teresting one, because I think a lot of also the greatest fragility to being safe the trust fund balance; but, also, here us don’t really have our head around here. it is with some of the interest revenue where does the money in Medicare Let’s actually go onto the next board that we also pay ourselves back. come from? And, I am sorry, I know because I think it helps actually sort of So think of this craziness. Function- this is a little hard to see, but if you show where we are going. But what is ally, as a society, we borrow money to see this, this is the entire Medicare. also important here is, as you look at pay back the borrowed money because This 45 percent up here, that is actu- these, those on the bottom, you will that cash that we took out of those ally general revenue. We are reaching actually see things like defense and trust funds has long since been spent. into the General Fund and paying it discretionary spending all being fairly But on this board, in 10 years, the So- out to hospitals and doctors and dura- flatlined, even with the most recent cial Security trust fund is cut in half. ble medical equipment. budget appropriations bill. If you actu- In just a few years, the Disability In- The 36 percent there, that is actually ally look at it over the next decade or surance Trust Fund is empty, and if the tax revenue. That is the payroll over the next three decades, almost all you actually can see it, the hospital, tax. That is within our FICA. of the growth in spending comes from the Medicare part A, which is the only Then we also have some taxes on the two programs and covering interest part really with the trust fund, in a few higher income earners and Social Secu- costs. This one is really noisy, and we will years, it is also down to zero. rity benefits, and it comes into here. put these up, or put them out. Over the So just getting our heads around, And then you see this 3 percent down next 30 years—this one actually goes this is reality, this is math, but it is there. That is actually revenue that we pay ourselves. So we borrowed the from 1960, but when you get here, look better than it was a year or so ago, but at the growth. You are heading towards money, gave it to the General Fund, it is still a crisis. And these, I am going a time, 2047. It seems like a lifetime spent it, but we paid ourselves last to put up two of these boards that is from now, but you are in 2018 right year what was the 3.1 percent interest. just going to show—do you see this sort now. So reach out 20 years from now, Well, that is what that 3 percent is of flat inflection here? That is actually reach out 30 years from now. part of the good news because where down there. Defense is 2.7 percent of spending you see—last year, it would have been So if you actually add it up, about equal to the size of the economy, so a constant curve downward that we half of this, half of what we spend in this is a per GDP slide. But the explo- were depleting the funds. As you know, Medicare is General Fund, half is com- sion, you see that red area, in that they have gone negative this year, ing in through the payroll tax. time when I am hopefully well into my meaning that the revenues coming out So if you look at part A, the hospital retirement, 15.6 percent of the entire of Social Security is actually greater trust fund, okay, that is almost all size of the economy. So we are going to than the revenues coming in, except payroll taxes. But if you start looking reach in and take—say the economy is for, since the tax reform and some of at part B and part D, you see the or- this big—we are going to take 15.6 per- the economic expansion, all of a sudden ange there, 75 and 78 percent respec- cent of that, and that is just going to we have hit a bit of a plateau. tively, that is all coming out of the be Social Security and Medicare. And CBO actually had it looking like it General Fund. another 6.2 percent will be covering the was going to last for a couple of years. On occasion, when I have actually interest costs. I am actually much more optimistic done some of these presentations at It is unsustainable, when you start to than some of their baseline numbers, home, you will get the hand that goes realize you will be approaching 30 per- but that is that actual mathematical up and people think that it is all paid cent of the entire gross domestic prod- reprieve. You also see the two lines for by the payroll taxes. That actually uct of this country in Federal spend- there. The variance in those is what we creates sort of this weird misunder- ing. It is not defense, it is not non- are also paying ourselves back as a standing of it is not all within the defense discretionary, it is actually not spiff in interest. trust fund. Almost half of what we even some of the other entitlements, So this one is Social Security, Old- spend in Medicare actually is coming even though sometimes that is easier Age Survivors Insurance Trust Fund. out of the General Fund. And there is to talk about behind these micro- But then when we actually move over actually where, as we see the substan- phones. It really is where we are demo- to the hospital fund—and important, tial growth, you see General Fund graphically as a society. you will see this in future slides. Social spending growing, and why a substan- And look, demographics is our des- Security, in many ways, isn’t my cri- tial portion of that General Fund grow- tiny. We can’t pretend it is not hap- sis—isn’t our crisis, because it is a de- ing is actually part of this. pening. We are all getting older. It is fined benefit. Fixing it, the math is ac- A couple of the other slides, just to the nature of life. And understand also, tually fairly easy. understand, as we have 74 million of these numbers are assuming no wars, our brothers and sisters who are baby no recessions, no disasters. These are b 1900 boomers moving into retirement right just baseline numbers, and that should It is Medicare that becomes so in- now—what is it, about 10,000, 10,300 make this really, really scary. credibly difficult. And Medicare, as you every single day—it actually has a lit- So how do I convince our voters and are going to see in a couple of future tle bit of a steepening curve over the my fellow Members that we have a lit- slides, is a much larger financial issue next 3 or 4 years. tle bit of reprieve right now because we in our near future. Now, the headline on this is really are in a time of terrific economic ex- So you actually just see sort of the important: Social Security, Health En- pansion, terrific employment, and good same thing in that even the hospital titlements, and Interest Costs. So you numbers coming in on the FICA tax? trust fund now is moving negative, have to put in the paying interest on How do we use this as a moment to ac- meaning we are taking more money all of the money we have borrowed as a tually say, let’s be adults, let’s come out of it than is going in. Yet, you do society. Driving 91 percent of the 2008 up with something much more elegant see the little bit of the plateau we are to 2028 spending hikes. than just entitlement reform? But getting because of the current payroll Remember my number before, that if there is actually ways where we can tax. we just do Social Security and Medi- keep our promises to our seniors, keep Just a point of reference on that. If care over the last 10 years, 72 percent our promises to those who are heading you actually looked at the Tax Foun- of the increased spending we had as a into their retirement, but also have it dation’s numbers when the tax reform government, in the Federal Govern- so we are not all here 15 years from was coming out, they actually had, I ment, was just the growth in Social Se- now saying we have hit a deficit crisis: think it was, just shy of $300 billion curity and Medicare. Okay. But if you we can’t sell our bonds, our interest over the next 10 years in new payroll add in also interest on top of it, it goes rates are exploding, everyone is going tax, FICA revenues, and that actually from 72 now to 91 percent. So under- to be taking huge cuts. Let’s attack it reaches into this area. stand, those are the levers that are today.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.095 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3393 Because I believe if we do things that So one more time, think about this. tax reform, actually said: Hey, here is maximize economic growth, things Over the next 30 years, the Social Secu- what we think the tax reform costs in that actually help our Nation’s demo- rity deficit, $18.9 trillion; the Medicare the static; here is what we think some graphics, if we adopt a very aggressive deficit, $39.7 trillion; and then the in- of the dynamic growth is going to be. adoption of technology, particularly in terest we are going to spend on those But they were in two different re- the healthcare space, and also provide shortfalls is another $23.4 trillion. That ports. some options within the entitlements, is $78 trillion. I took the business numbers, just the it is all stuff we should have done 10 Now, if you want to use inflation ad- business portion, to see what it was years ago, but we have been given a lit- justed, just reduce it by a third. doing growthwise. I thought you would tle bit of reprieve right now because of This is the greatest threat to our so- all find this interesting, or maybe I am what is happening in the economic ciety. Because do you see at the very the only one. growth. end, do you see the little blue, the rest So it turns out that the business tax So here is something to get our heads of the budget actually is in balance reform, I think the title II portion of around. If you actually look at the over the next 30 years. And that is ac- our reform bill from December, said, numbers, you see the first two bar tually using the CBO scores, which I hey, businesses, $653 billion in less charts, that is Social Security. It turns think sort of underestimate current taxes, revenues to us as a government out the average American will put in growth. But that is just the math. This over the next 10 years, but the inter- about $543,000 over their working life. isn’t Republican or Democrat; it is national business portion of the book, And this is someone who would be re- math. we are actually going to take in an- tiring right now. And they are going to Yet, it is the greatest threat to our other $324 billion. So $653 billion, if you are here, but get out $616,000. So, okay, a little vari- society. And yet, when I stand in front because we are bringing those moneys, ance. Now, the problem is we have ob- of my constituents and we will have a the repatriation of those moneys back viously already spent all of that money meeting and we will discuss what is the in and actually encouraging companies that was in the trust fund and we put greatest threat to society, the hands go to actually come back to the United IOUs in it, but still, it is a fair deal. up and it becomes all sorts of things, States and work here, we actually gain Medicare is our crisis. Apparently, because this is really hard, it is really $324 billion. someone who is retiring today will big, it is really difficult, and it is real- have put in about $140,000 in Medicare All right. So I am still negative $329 ly, really, really important. billion over the 10 years on those C taxes. But the person who retires today So as we walk through these, I need is taking out about $422,000. So $140,000 corps, the big corporations, but then on to do—and forgive my stacks of paper, the next Joint Tax report, they talked in, $422,000 out. Now multiply that by but sometimes when you are trying to just 74 million of us who are baby about the dynamic scoring, what they do the math, this is one of those where saw as the growth estimates. boomers and you start to understand you lay out the Excel spreadsheet and the size and the scale of where the gap Not to bore everyone with it, but we it goes on and on and on and on. have already seen the CBO has actually is coming from. It is math. Think of this. In 9 years, Social Secu- I desperately wish there was a way to lifted up the growth estimates from rity and Medicare, without the inter- blind the political rage and just say, it even December, so there are good est, will be 10.3 percent of the entire is math, and the math will always win. things happening there. So, hopefully, economy. So the United States Govern- And if we would step up and be less po- these numbers would actually expand litical and more like accountants for a ment will say: Hey, the economy is from that. moment—and I am sorry, I know as Re- today what the GDP is, $21 trillion, $22 But if you actually put the growth publicans that is often our problem, is trillion, $23 trillion. Hopefully, 10 years back in, they were estimating $384 bil- we sound more like accountants—but from now, it is substantially larger. lion of growth in new revenues because the violence, the cruelty we are going But 10 years from now, it is going to be of the bigger economy, more business to do to our society if we continue to over 10 percent is just being reached in spending, more jobs, more opportunity. avoid the reality of the math, in a dec- and spent on Medicare and Social Secu- Now, most of that is from what was ade or decade and a half from now rity. It is the math. happening in those corporations. when the crisis is upon us, our ability But actually, over the next decade, it So it turns out the business portion to fix it will be very, very difficult. It gets up into the 12s, and then a little on the tax reform bill, in the Joint is going to be difficult right now, but it while after that it goes up further. But Tax’s own numbers, actually is about is doable. There are approaches to that is of spending equal to the entire $55 billion to the upside in their own make these numbers work. size of the economy. That is why it be- modeling over the 10 years. I partially This is also, for those folks who are comes so incredibly important that put this up because I was embarrassed now deficit hawks or newfound deficit part of that holistic solution of how we I didn’t see it in their math sooner, but hawks, a time for a moment of honesty save these programs is also that we that is what it is. and reality. Over the next 30 years— maximize economic expansion. So I guess, ultimately, Mr. Speaker, I and this is not inflation adjusted, so So when we get into the discussion have a couple messages here. I under- for those of you who like to do con- that has happened around here a lot stand we are sort of in a time of very stant dollars, you would probably re- lately, where we talk about the tax re- difficult politics, but we need to sort of duce the number by about a third—but form and the jobs and opportunity it is grow up and deal with the reality. this is over the next 30 years. So if you creating, I have had this running con- We are getting older as a society. We plan to be alive for the next 30 years, versation, and I saw it on the floor here have made lots and lots of promises. this is what you are facing today: $82 I think yesterday, where someone is We need to keep those promises. There trillion in cash shortfall; $78 trillion of pounding: Well, tax reform is not pay- are ways to do it, but every single day that is just Social Security, Medicare, ing for itself, tax cuts never pay for we don’t step up and deal with the re- and the interest on that shortfall. themselves. That is partially true. Cer- ality of math, we make it that much So all of the other things that we tain parts don’t. more difficult for all of us. I am 56 years old. My wife, I probably talk about: Oh, it is defense spending. b 1915 No, it is not. shouldn’t say this, but she is exactly Oh, it is other nondefense discre- Certain parts are political-societal my age. We are incredibly blessed. We tionary. No, it is not. decisions to allow families to keep have a 21⁄2-year-old that is the best lit- It is other entitlement programs. A more, but there was an interesting lit- tle girl ever. I have a mug that says so. little bit, but not really. tle set of numbers. This often happens She actually was with us here on the It is the two programs that are when you have your spreadsheets and floor of the House last week. Maybe it earned entitlements that we, as Con- everything laying out in front of you is partially because of my little girl gress, in its wisdom over the last few and you are going over them. that I am going to double down on my decades, didn’t make the math actuari- So in December, the Joint Com- efforts here. ally sound. And just pretending it is mittee on Taxation, which, as you How do I get our friends on the left not there doesn’t fix it. know, was our scorekeeper when we did and our friends in the majority and say

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.097 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE H3394 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE April 17, 2018 maybe it is time we do the most dif- are how we are going to be judged in rity Procedures Amendments to FDIC Regu- ficult thing any of us would ever do in our future when all of us as elected lations (RIN: 3064-AE47) received April 5, our elected career, and that is actually Members leave here. Will we have 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the take on the biggest issue of our times, saved the country from its greatest Committee on Financial Services. and that is the unfunded liabilities and threat, which is the debt that is going 4563. A letter from the Director, Office of the promises we have made? to come crashing down on us very, very Legislative Affairs, Federal Deposit Insur- Do we do a BRAC commission, not to soon? ance Corporation, transmitting the Corpora- close things, but to actually look at ev- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance tions’ final rule — Assessment Regulations erything because is a little bit of the of my time. received April 9, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. solution reforming how we deliver 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 f Stat. 868); to the Committee on Financial healthcare and Medicare? ADJOURNMENT Services. Is a little bit of the solution a dif- 4564. A letter from the Director, Office of ferent type of immigration system that Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I Management and Budget, Executive Office of maximizes economic expansion and move that the House do now adjourn. the President, transmitting the Office’s re- benefits and demographics? The motion was agreed to; accord- port on discretionary appropriations legisla- Is it everything all together? Is it ingly (at 7 o’clock and 23 minutes tion within seven calendar days of enact- maximizing economic expansion so p.m.), under its previous order, the ment, pursuant to 2 U.S.C. 901(a)(7)(B); Pub- payroll taxes become much more ro- House adjourned until tomorrow, lic Law 99-177, Sec. 251(a)(7)(B) (as amended by Public Law 114-113, Sec. 1003); (129 Stat. bust? Wednesday, April 18, 2018, at 10 a.m. for 3035); to the Committee on the Budget. Is it actually creating a path for morning-hour debate. 4565. A letter from the Assistant Secretary those who have been disaffected or are f for Legislation, Department of Health and on certain types of income-based social Human Services, transmitting the Depart- EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, entitlement programs that move them ment’s ninth Annual Report to Congress on ETC. back into our workforce because there the Prevention and Reduction of Underage is opportunity? Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive Drinking for September 2017, pursuant to 42 communications were taken from the U.S.C. 290bb-25b(c)(1)(F); Public Law 109-422, The answer is we need to do it all at Sec. 2; (120 Stat. 2892); to the Committee on the same time. Speaker’s table and referred as follows: Energy and Commerce. But how do you get this body, with 4557. A communication from the President 4566. A letter from the Director, Regula- all the noise that is around us con- of the United States, transmitting FY 2019 tions Policy and Management Staff, FDA, stantly, all the people banging on us budget amendments for the Departments of Department of Health and Human Services, constantly, the chaos that is today’s Agriculture, Defense, Education, Energy, transmitting the Department’s final rule — media, which is an entertainment me- Health and Human Services, Homeland Secu- Cigarettes, Smokeless Tobacco, and Covered rity, Housing and Urban Development, the Tobacco Products; Change of Office Name dium, get a number of people to pull Interior, Justice, Labor, State, Transpor- and Address; Technical Amendment [Docket out a calculator, pull out some great tation, the Treasury, and Veterans Affairs, No.: FDA-2018-N-0011] received April 5, 2018, econometrics, understand the demo- and the Environmental Protection Agency, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law graphics, and do what is necessary to the National Aeronautics and Space Admin- 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- deal with the greatest threat to this istration, National Science Foundation, So- mittee on Energy and Commerce. country? And that greatest threat is cial Security Administration, U.S. Agency 4567. A letter from the Deputy Assistant Administrator, Diversion Control Division, not military. It is actually debt and for International Development, and Other International Programs (H. Doc. No. 115— Drug Enforcement Administration, Depart- promises we have made. ment of Justice, transmitting the Depart- As you have already seen on the 114); to the Committee on Appropriations and ordered to be printed. ment’s temporary rule — Schedules of Con- slides, everything else is pretty much 4558. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- trolled Substances: Extension of Temporary in balance over the next 30 years. What ment of Defense, transmitting a letter on the Placement of MAB-CHMINACA in Schedule I blows us up is the promises we have approved retirement of Vice Admiral Terry of the Controlled Substances Act [Docket made in Social Security and Medicare. J. Benedict, United States Navy, and his ad- No.: DEA-421] received April 5, 2018, pursuant It is fixable, but we cannot continue to vancement to the grade of vice admiral on to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on wait. the retired list, pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 1370(c)(1); Public Law 96-513, Sec. 112 (as Energy and Commerce. The last thing I want to share, and I 4568. A letter from the Deputy Assistant amended by Public Law 104-106, Sec. 502(b)); know I am backtracking a bit, there Administrator, Diversion Control Division, (110 Stat. 293); to the Committee on Armed Drug Enforcement Administration, Depart- continues to be more good news that Services. ment of Justice, transmitting the Depart- comes in from the tax reform and the 4559. A letter from the Under Secretary, ment’s temporary amendment — Schedules positive things that are happening Personnel and Readiness, Department of De- of Controlled Substances: Temporary Place- within the economy; but there was a fense, transmitting the National Guard and ment of Seven Fentanyl-Related Substances Reserve Equipment Report for Fiscal Year great article today about what is also in Schedule I [Docket No.: DEA-475] received 2019, pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 10541(a); Public happening at our State and local lev- April 5, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Law 101-510, Sec. 1483(a) (as amended by Pub- els, and this sort of fits into that uni- Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to fied theory of, if you are going to start lic Law 112-81, Sec. 1070); (125 Stat. 1592); to the Committee on Energy and Commerce. the Committee on Armed Services. 4569. A letter from the Deputy Assistant to step up and do what is difficult, do 4560. A letter from the Assistant to the it in a time when you have economic Administrator, Diversion Control Division, Board, Board of Governors of the Federal Re- Drug Enforcement Administration, Depart- expansion. It turns out revenues to our serve System, transmitting the Board’s final ment of Justice, transmitting the Depart- States look like they are taking quite rule — Real Estate Appraisals [Docket No.: ment’s temporary amendment — Schedules a pop upward. R-1568] (RIN: 7100 AE-81) received April 5, of Controlled Substances: Temporary Place- Also, another article, it turns out 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public ment of Fentanyl-Related Substances in that the International Monetary Fund Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Schedule I [Docket No.: DEA-476] April 5, did a calculation and fairly stepped up Committee on Financial Services. 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public 4561. A letter from the Chief Counsel, world growth for the next couple years Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the FEMA, Department of Homeland Security, Committee on Energy and Commerce. and actually gave half the credit for transmitting the Department’s final rule — 4570. A letter from the Deputy Assistant that growth to the U.S. tax reform, Suspension of Community Eligibility, Administrator, Diversion Control Division, meaning what we did here in the Vernon Parish, LA, et al. [Docket ID: FEMA- Drug Enforcement Administration, Depart- United States actually made a poor 2018-0002; Internal Agency Docket No.: ment of Justice, transmitting the Depart- family on the other side of the world’s FEMA-8521] received March 28, 2018, pursuant ment’s temporary amendment — Schedules opportunities better. to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, of Controlled Substances: Temporary Place- If you actually start to look at all Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on ment of Cyclopropyl Fentanyl in Schedule I the things that are going on around us, Financial Services. [Docket No.: DEA-474] received April 5, 2018, 4562. A letter from the Director, Office of pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law even in a time of turbulent politics, we Legislative Affairs, Federal Deposit Insur- 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- have some good things happening. ance Corporation, transmitting the Corpora- mittee on Energy and Commerce. Now let’s step up and do the really tion’s final rule — Removal of Transferred 4571. A letter from the Director, Regu- hard things, because the hard things OTS Regulations Regarding Minimum Secu- latory Management Division, Environmental

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 4634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP7.098 H17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with HOUSE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H3395 Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- certifying that the export of the listed item titles were introduced and severally re- cy’s final rule — Approval of Nebraska Air to the People’s Republic of China is not det- ferred, as follows: Quality Implementation Plans, Operating rimental to the U.S. space launch industry, By Mr. RATCLIFFE (for himself, Mr. Permits Program, and 112(1) Program; Revi- pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 2778 note; Public Law SMITH of Texas, Mr. HENSARLING, Mr. sion to Nebraska Administrative Code [EPA- 105-261, Sec. 1512 (as amended by Public Law KING of Iowa, Mr. WALKER, Mr. R07-OAR-2017-0485; FRL-9976-52-Region 7] re- 105-277, Sec. 146); (112 Stat. 2174); to the Com- ceived April 5, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. mittee on Foreign Affairs. BIGGS, Mr. BARLETTA, Mr. BABIN, Mr. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 4580. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- GOSAR, Mr. DUNN, Mr. WOMACK, Mr. Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and ment of Commerce, transmitting a report ARRINGTON, Mr. BURGESS, and Mr. Commerce. certifying that the export of the listed items ROKITA): 4572. A letter from the Director, Regu- to the People’s Republic of China is not det- H.R. 5526. A bill to amend title 18, United latory Management Division, Environmental rimental to the U.S. space launch industry, States Code, to provide for certain sen- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 2778 note; Public Law tencing enhancements relating to illegal re- cy’s final rule — Findings of Failure to Sub- 105-261, Sec. 1512 (as amended by Public Law entry offenses, and to clarify the manner in mit State Implementation Plan Submissions 105-277, Sec. 146); (112 Stat. 2174); to the Com- which sentences for such offenses are to be for the 2012 Fine Particulate Matter Na- mittee on Foreign Affairs. served, and for other purposes; to the Com- tional Ambient Air Quality Standards 4581. A letter from the Assistant Secretary mittee on the Judiciary. (NAAQS) [EPA-HQ-OAR-2018-0135; FRL-9976- for Export Administration, Bureau of Indus- By Mr. STIVERS (for himself and Ms. 35-OAR] received April 5, 2018, pursuant to 5 try and Security, Department of Commerce, LOFGREN): U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. transmitting the Department’s final rule — H.R. 5527. A bill to establish the Daniel 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- Implementation of the February 2017 Aus- Webster Congressional Clerkship Program; ergy and Commerce. tralia Group (AG) Intersessional Decisions to the Committee on House Administration. 4573. A letter from the Director, Regu- and the June 2017 AG Plenary Under- By Mr. BACON (for himself, Mr. KELLY latory Management Division, Environmental standings; Addition of India to the AG of Mississippi, Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- [Docket No.: 170306234-7234-01] (RIN: 094- vania, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, and Ms. cy’s final rule — Air Quality Designations AH37) received April 5, 2018, pursuant to 5 ROSEN): for the 2010 Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) Primary U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. H.R. 5528. A bill to direct the Secretary of National Ambient Air Quality Standard — 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on For- Defense to submit to Congress a plan for im- Round 3 — Supplemental Amendment [EPA- eign Affairs. provements to traumatic brain injury and HQ-OAR-2017-0003; FRL-9976-40-OAR] re- 4582. A letter from the Executive Analyst post-traumatic stress research; to the Com- ceived April 5, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. (Political), Department of Health and mittee on Armed Services. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Human Services, transmitting a notification By Mr. NOLAN: of an action on nomination, and discontinu- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and H.R. 5529. A bill to provide for the transfer ation of service in acting role, pursuant to 5 Commerce. of certain Federal land in the State of Min- 4574. A letter from the Director, Regu- U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 nesota for the benefit of the Leech Lake latory Management Division, Environmental Stat. 2681-614); to the Committee on Over- Band of Ojibwe; to the Committee on Nat- Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- sight and Government Reform. cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation 4583. A letter from the Executive Analyst ural Resources. of Air Quality Implementation Plans; State (Political), Department of Health and By Mr. BISHOP of Utah: of Colorado; Revisions to the Transportation Human Services, transmitting a notification H.R. 5530. A bill to amend the Farm Secu- Conformity Consultation Process [EPA-R08- on an action on nomination, and discontinu- rity and Rural Investment Act of 2002 to re- OAR-2017-0753; FRL-9976-02-Region 8] re- ation of service in acting role, pursuant to 5 peal desert terminal lakes assistance; to the ceived April 5, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. U.S.C. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 Committee on Agriculture, and in addition 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 2681-614); to the Committee on Over- to the Committee on Natural Resources, for Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and sight and Government Reform. a period to be subsequently determined by Commerce. 4584. A letter from the General Counsel, the Speaker, in each case for consideration 4575. A letter from the Director, Regu- Privacy and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, of such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- latory Management Division, Environmental transmitting the Board’s FY 2017 No FEAR tion of the committee concerned. Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- Act report, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 2301 note; By Mr. BUCHANAN (for himself and cy’s final rule — Approval and Promulgation Public Law 107-174, 203(a) (as amended by Mrs. MURPHY of Florida): of Air Quality Implementation Plans; State Public Law 109-435, Sec. 604(f)); (120 Stat. H.R. 5531. A bill to provide for a com- of Wyoming; Sheridan PM10 Nonattainment 3242); to the Committee on Oversight and prehensive, multifaceted approach to pre- Area Limited Maintenance Plan and Redes- Government Reform. venting and treating opioid addiction; to the ignation Request [EPA-R08-OAR-2017-0656; 4585. A letter from the Associate General Committee on Energy and Commerce, and in FRL-9975-84-Region 8] received April 5, 2018, Counsel for General Law, U.S. Customs and addition to the Committees on Ways and pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law Border Protection, Department of Homeland Means, the Budget, Veterans’ Affairs, Over- 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- Security, transmitting a notification on an sight and Government Reform, and the Judi- mittee on Energy and Commerce. action on nomination, and discontinuation ciary, for a period to be subsequently deter- 4576. A letter from the Director, Regu- of service in acting role, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- latory Management Division, Environmental 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 Stat. sideration of such provisions as fall within Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- 2681-614); to the Committee on Oversight and the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. cy’s final rule — Approval of California Air Government Reform. By Mr. CLYBURN (for himself and Mr. Plan Revisions, Yolo-Solano Air Quality 4586. A letter from the Secretary, HHS, and SANFORD): Management District [EPA-R09-OAR-2008- the Attorney General, DOJ, Department of H.R. 5532. A bill to redesignate the Recon- 0612; FRL-9976-06-Region 9] received April 5, Health and Human Services, Department of struction Era National Monument as the Re- 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Justice, transmitting the Annual Report of construction Era National Historical Park, Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the the Departments of Health and Human Serv- and for other purposes; to the Committee on Committee on Energy and Commerce. ices, and Justice titled ‘‘Health Care Fraud Natural Resources. 4577. A letter from the Director, Regu- and Abuse Control Program for FY 2017’’, By Mr. DOGGETT (for himself, Mr. latory Management Division, Environmental pursuant to 42 U.S.C. 1395i(k)(5); Aug. 14, RASKIN, Mr. TED LIEU of California, Protection Agency, transmitting the Agen- 1935, ch. 531, title XVIII, Sec. 1817(k)(5) (as Mr. CICILLINE, Mr. NADLER, Mr. cy’s final rule — Air Plan Approval; South added by Public Law 104-191, Sec. 201(b)); (110 GALLEGO, Mr. POCAN, Ms. JAYAPAL, Carolina; Update to Materials Incorporated Stat. 1996); jointly to the Committees on En- Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Ms. NORTON, by Reference [SC-2017; FRL-9974-17-Region 4] ergy and Commerce and Ways and Means. and Mr. COHEN): received April 5, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 4587. A letter from the Assistant Secretary, H.R. 5533. A bill to require a report of any 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Legislative Affairs, Department of Defense, Stat. 868); to the Committee on Energy and Special Counsel who is removed from office, transmitting additional legislative proposals and for other purposes; to the Committee on Commerce. that the Department of Defense requests be 4578. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- the Judiciary. enacted during the second session of the ment of Commerce, transmitting a report By Mr. DUFFY (for himself and Mr. 115th Congress; jointly to the Committees on certifying that the export of the listed items PERLMUTTER): Armed Services, the Judiciary, Veterans’ Af- to the People’s Republic of China is not det- H.R. 5534. A bill to amend the Consumer fairs, Natural Resources, and Oversight and rimental to the U.S. space launch industry, Financial Protection Act of 2010 to provide Government Reform. pursuant to 22 U.S.C. 2778 note; Public Law procedures for guidance issued by the Bureau 105-261, Sec. 1512 (as amended by Public Law f of Consumer Financial Protection, and for 105-277, Sec. 146); (112 Stat. 2174); to the Com- PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS other purposes; to the Committee on Finan- mittee on Foreign Affairs. cial Services. 4579. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public By Mr. MCCAUL (for himself and Mr. ment of Commerce, transmitting a report bills and resolutions of the following ENGEL):

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This section con- CROWLEY, Mr. LANGEVIN, Mrs. WAT- ESPAILLAT, Mr. NADLER, and Mr. tains 18 clauses, 17 of which enumerate rel- SON COLEMAN, Mr. THOMPSON of Mis- ENGEL): atively specific powers granted to the Con- sissippi, Mr. FOSTER, Mr. AL GREEN H.R. 5542. A bill to establish a grant pro- gress. Among the powers enumerated are of Texas, Mr. VEASEY, Mr. MOULTON, gram under which the Secretary of Transpor- Congress’s powers to regulate commerce. Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. PETERS, Mr. tation will reimburse public transportation By Mr. CLYBURN: KEATING, Mr. SCHRADER, Ms. SPEIER, agencies that offer free unlimited transpor- H.R. 5532. Mr. AGUILAR, Ms. BROWNLEY of Cali- tation passes to eligible individuals; to the Congress has the power to enact this legis- fornia, Mr. POCAN, Ms. SA´ NCHEZ, Ms. Committee on Transportation and Infra- lation pursuant to the following: BLUNT ROCHESTER, Mrs. DINGELL, Mr. structure. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- CUELLAR, Ms. NORTON, Mr. HASTINGS, By Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ: tion. Mr. BROWN of Maryland, Ms. TITUS, H.R. 5543. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Mr. DOGGETT: and Ms. SINEMA): enue Code of 1986 to allow for a credit H.R. 5533. H.R. 5536. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- against tax for certain flood insurance ex- Congress has the power to enact this legis- enue Code of 1986 to expand the credit for ex- penses; to the Committee on Ways and lation pursuant to the following: penditures to provide access to disabled indi- Means. Clause 1 of Section 8 of Article I of the viduals; to the Committee on Ways and By Mr. WALKER: United States Constitution. Means. H.R. 5544. A bill to amend chapter 31 of By Mr. DUFFY: By Ms. NORTON: title 44, United States Code, to require the H.R. 5534. H.R. 5537. A bill to authorize grantees of maintenance of certain records for 3 years, Congress has the power to enact this legis- Department of Justice grants to set up task and for other purposes; to the Committee on lation pursuant to the following: forces on policing in local communities, and Oversight and Government Reform. Article I, section 8, clause 1 (relating to for other purposes; to the Committee on the By Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas (for the general welfare of the United States); Judiciary. himself, Mr. COLE, and Ms. MATSUI): and Article I, section 8, clause 3 (relating to By Mr. PETERS (for himself, Mr. H.J. Res. 133. A joint resolution providing the power to regulate interstate commerce). BERGMAN, Mr. WALZ, Mr. O’ROURKE, for the reappointment of Barbara M. Barrett By Mr. MCCAUL: Ms. BROWNLEY of California, Mr. as a citizen regent of the Board of Regents of H.R. 5535. POLIQUIN, Ms. KUSTER of New Hamp- the Smithsonian Institution; to the Com- Congress has the power to enact this legis- shire, and Mr. PALAZZO): mittee on House Administration. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5538. A bill to amend title 38, United By Mr. CROWLEY: Article 1 Section 8 States Code, to provide for the inclusion of H. Res. 833. A resolution electing Members By Mr. MCEACHIN: certain additional periods of active duty to certain standing committees of the House H.R. 5536. service for purposes of suspending charges to of Representatives; considered and agreed to. Congress has the power to enact this legis- veterans’ entitlement to educational assist- lation pursuant to the following: ance under the laws administered by the Sec- f Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18 retary of Veterans Affairs during periods of CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY By Ms. NORTON: suspended participation in vocational reha- STATEMENT H.R. 5537. bilitation programs; to the Committee on Congress has the power to enact this legis- Veterans’ Affairs. Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida the Rules of the House of Representa- clause 18 of section 8 of article I of the (for himself, Ms. TENNEY, Mr. GAETZ, tives, the following statements are sub- Constitution. Mr. GALLAGHER, Mr. MEADOWS, Mr. mitted regarding the specific powers By Mr. PETERS: BLUM, Mr. BRAT, and Mr. NORMAN): granted to Congress in the Constitu- H.R. 5538. H.R. 5539. A bill to set the annual rate of Congress has the power to enact this legis- compensation for a Member of Congress who tion to enact the accompanying bill or lation pursuant to the following: has served six consecutive terms as a Mem- joint resolution. Article I, Section 8 ber of the House of Representatives or two By Mr. RATCLIFFE: By Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida: consecutive terms as a Senator at $1, to H.R. 5526. H.R. 5539. amend title 5, United States Code, to exclude Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- any service of a Member of Congress occur- lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: ring during any pay period for which the Clause 4 of Section 8 of Article I—The Con- Article 1, Section 8 Member’s annual rate of compensation is $1 gress shall have the Power to establish a uni- By Mr. SUOZZI: as creditable service for purposes of an annu- form Rule of Naturalization, and uniform H.R. 5540. ity under that title, and for other purposes; Laws on the subject of Bankruptcies Congress has the power to enact this legis- to the Committee on House Administration, throughout the United States. lation pursuant to the following: and in addition to the Committee on Over- By Mr. STIVERS: Under Article I, Section 8 of the Constitu- sight and Government Reform, for a period H.R. 5527. tion, Congress has the power ‘‘to make all to be subsequently determined by the Speak- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Laws which shall be necessary and proper for er, in each case for consideration of such pro- lation pursuant to the following: carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- visions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Article 1 Section 8 of the Constitution ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- committee concerned. By Mr. BACON: stitution in the Government of the United By Mr. SUOZZI (for himself and Mr. H.R. 5528. States, or any Department or Officer thereof KINZINGER): Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. UPTON: H.R. 5540. A bill to direct the Director of lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5541. National Intelligence to prepare a National Article 1, Section 8 of the United States Congress has the power to enact this legis- Intelligence Estimate on Hizballah, and for Constitution: ‘‘Congress shall have the power lation pursuant to the following: other purposes; to the Committee on Intel- . . . to make rules for the government and Article I, Section 8, Clause 3. The Congress ligence (Permanent Select), and in addition regulation of the land and naval forces.’’ shall have the Power to regulate commerce to the Committee on Foreign Affairs, for a By Mr. NOLAN: with foreign Nations, and among the several period to be subsequently determined by the H.R. 5529. States, and with Indian Tribes. Speaker, in each case for consideration of Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ: such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 5542. tion of the committee concerned. Article IV, Section 3, Clause 2—The Con- Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. UPTON (for himself and Ms. gress shall have power to dispose of and lation pursuant to the following: CLARKE of New York): make all needful Rules and Regulations re- Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 H.R. 5541. A bill to amend titles XVIII and specting the Territory or other property be- The Congress shall have Power to . . . pro- XIX of the Social Security Act to provide longing to the United States. vide for the . . . general Welfare of the equal coverage of in vitro specific IgE tests By Mr. BISHOP of Utah: United States; . . . and percutaneous tests for allergies under H.R. 5530. By Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ: the Medicare and Medicaid programs, and for Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 5543. other purposes; to the Committee on Energy lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- and Commerce, and in addition to the Com- Section 8 of Article I of the Constitution lation pursuant to the following:

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Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 H.R. 2270: Mr. DESAULNIER. NETTA, Mr. ROSS, Mr. KATKO, Mr. RATCLIFFE, The Congress shall have Power to lay and H.R. 2293: Mr. ROSS and Mrs. MURPHY of and Mrs. WALORSKI. collect Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises, Florida. H.R. 5136: Mr. DESAULNIER. to pay the Debts and provide for the common H.R. 2317: Mr. SUOZZI. H.R. 5146: Mr. DESAULNIER. Defense and general Welfare of the United H.R. 2327: Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. H.R. 5147: Mr. COHEN. States; but all Duties, Imposts and Excises H.R. 2358: Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi, Ms. H.R. 5153: Mr. HUNTER and Mrs. WALORSKI. shall be uniform throughout the United TSONGAS, Mr. WALZ, and Mr. COURTNEY. H.R. 5180: Mr. COURTNEY. States. H.R. 2418: Mr. LAWSON of Florida. H.R. 5191: Mr. CURBELO of Florida and Mr. By Mr. WALKER: H.R. 2553: Mr. WEBER of Texas, Mr. BANKS STIVERS. H.R. 5544. of Indiana, Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania, Mr. H.R. 5198: Mr. EMMER. Congress has the power to enact this legis- GIBBS, Mr. LAMALFA, and Mr. HILL. H.R. 5220: Mr. SMITH of Texas. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2584: Mr. WITTMAN, Ms. WASSERMAN H.R. 5259: Mr. PETERSON and Ms. TENNEY. Article I, Section 8, Clauses 1, 3, and 18 of SCHULTZ, Mr. ROSS, and Mr. BLUMENAUER. H.R. 5271: Mr. MOULTON. the United States Constitution H.R. 2599: Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. H.R. 5322: Ms. JAYAPAL. By Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas: H.R. 2747: Mr. KIND. H.R. 5324: Mr. HUDSON. H.J. Res. 133. H.R. 2953: Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia and Mr. H.R. 5339: Mr. MCNERNEY. Congress has the power to enact this legis- DAVID SCOTT of Georgia. H.R. 5343: Mr. LAMALFA, Mr. DESJARLAIS, lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2976: Mr. DENHAM, Mr. RODNEY DAVIS Mr. JONES, Mr. ROE of Tennessee, and Mr. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 17, giving Con- of Illinois, and Mr. VALADAO. KING of Iowa. gress exclusive jurisdiction over the District H.R. 3174: Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. H.R. 5358: Mr. BRAT. of Columbia. That clause was cited as the au- H.R. 3192: Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of H.R. 5365: Mr. BARLETTA. thority for the government’s ability to ac- New York. H.R. 5369: Mr. JORDAN. cept the original Smithson donation and the H.R. 3356: Mr. ROKITA. H.R. 5383: Ms. ESHOO. creation of the Smithsonian Institution via H.R. 3378: Mr. TAKANO. H.R. 5387: Mr. MCNERNEY. the Act of August 10, 1846. H.R. 3400: Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. H.R. 5395: Mr. CROWLEY. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18, the Nec- H.R. 3528: Ms. BONAMICI. H.R. 5406: Mr. MASSIE. essary and Proper clause, which provides the H.R. 3545: Mr. DUNN, Mr. FLORES, and Mr. H.R. 5422: Mr. BISHOP of Utah. power to enact legislation necessary to effec- ROKITA. H.R. 5442: Mr. MESSER. tuate one of the earlier enumerated powers, H.R. 3591: Mr. NORCROSS. H.R. 5468: Mr. ROUZER. such as the authority granted in Clause 17 H.R. 3605: Mr. COURTNEY. H.R. 5476: Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Ms. WILSON of above. H.R. 3681: Mr. CULBERSON. Florida, Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsyl- H.R. 3692: Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. f vania, Mr. DEFAZIO, Ms. ADAMS, Mr. GOMEZ, H.R. 3751: Mr. COHEN. Mr. BROWN of Maryland, Mrs. DINGELL, Mr. ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 3767: Mr. RASKIN and Mr. SCHIFF. WELCH, Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. SHERMAN, Mrs. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 3798: Mr. BUDD. BUSTOS, Mr. TAKANO, and Mr. YARMUTH. H.R. 3842: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. H.R. 5483: Mr. ROKITA. were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 3871: Mr. GARAMENDI. tions, as follows: H.R. 5499: Mr. KILMER. H.R. 3938: Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ and Mr. LIPINSKI. H.R. 5503: Mr. WEBSTER of Florida and Mr. H.R. 103: Ms. BONAMICI. H.R. 3956: Mr. GIBBS, Mrs. WAGNER, and Mr. LOUDERMILK. H.R. 299: Mrs. BLACK. WENSTRUP. H.R. 5509: Ms. EDDIE BERNICE JOHNSON of H.R. 389: Ms. GABBARD. H.R. 3994: Mr. COLLINS of New York. Texas, Mr. MARSHALL, and Mr. LIPINSKI. H.R. 394: Mr. SCHIFF. H.R. 4001: Mr. COHEN, Mr. POCAN, and Mr. H.R. 5517: Mr. RYAN of Ohio and Mr. H.R. 502: Mr. POE of Texas, Mr. STIVERS, CARSON of Indiana. SUOZZI. and Mr. COLLINS of New York. H.R. 4023: Ms. SINEMA. H.R. 5520: Mr. TAKANO, Ms. BROWNLEY of H.R. 644: Mr. NEWHOUSE. H.R. 4099: Mr. VISCLOSKY, Mr. California, Mr. COFFMAN, Ms. KUSTER of New H.R. 771: Mr. GOMEZ. FLEISCHMANN, and Mr. PASCRELL. Hampshire, Mr. PETERS, Mr. O’ROURKE, Miss H.R. 788: Mr. TIPTON. H.R. 4106: Mr. TAKANO and Ms. BROWNLEY RICE of New York, Ms. ESTY of Connecticut, H.R. 909: Mr. KNIGHT. of California. Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. GAETZ, Mr. CLAY, Mr. H.R. 911: Mr. ROUZER. H.R. 4122: Mr. SMITH of Washington. JONES, Mr. ROHRABACHER, Ms. EDDIE BERNICE H.R. 941: Mr. GALLAGHER and Mr. HUNTER. H.R. 4143: Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. COHEN, Mr. YOUNG of H.R. 959: Mr. PASCRELL. sylvania. Alaska, Mr. RASKIN, Ms. MCCOLLUM, Mr. H.R. 1150: Mr. FASO and Mr. SHIMKUS. H.R. 4177: Mr. SANFORD. KIHUEN, Mr. POCAN, Mr. SMITH of Wash- H.R. 1206: Mr. POE of Texas. H.R. 4215: Mr. CRIST. ington, Ms. ROSEN, Mr. PANETTA, Mr. POLIS, H.R. 1276: Ms. BARRAGA´ N and Ms. EDDIE H.R. 4260: Mr. CARSON of Indiana. Mr. VARGAS, Ms. PINGREE, Ms. TITUS, Mr. BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas. H.R. 4268: Ms. BASS and Ms. MATSUI. CRIST, Mr. JOYCE of Ohio, Ms. LEE, Mr. GRI- H.R. 1291: Ms. TITUS. H.R. 4306: Mr. BEYER. JALVA, and Mr. HECK. H.R. 1300: Mr. SUOZZI. H.R. 4635: Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire, H.J. Res. 100: Mr. THOMPSON of California. H.R. 1316: Mrs. ROBY and Mr. HIGGINS of Ms. BROWNLEY of California, and Mr. PETERS. H. Con. Res. 13: Mr. RUSH. Louisiana. H.R. 4638: Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS. H. Res. 763: Ms. JENKINS of Kansas, Mr. H.R. 1318: Mr. SCHIFF. H.R. 4691: Ms. LOFGREN. PAYNE, and Mr. KILMER. H.R. 1358: Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. H.R. 4693: Ms. LOFGREN. H. Res. 774: Mr. LONG and Mr. REICHERT. H.R. 1445: Mr. BRAT. H.R. 4733: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut and Ms. H. Res. 781: Ms. JACKSON LEE, Ms. WILSON H.R. 1511: Ms. MOORE and Ms. BONAMICI. BONAMICI. of Florida, Ms. MOORE, and Mrs. COMSTOCK. H.R. 1542: Mr. ROKITA. H.R. 4805: Mr. MEADOWS. H. Res. 813: Mr. BACON. H.R. 1596: Mr. MITCHELL. H.R. 4815: Mr. MEEKS. H. Res. 823: Ms. TITUS. H.R. 1603: Mr. SCHIFF. H.R. 4821: Mr. NUNES. H.R. 1697: Mr. BRAT. H.R. 4841: Mr. RENACCI. f H.R. 1762: Mr. ROKITA. H.R. 4843: Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. KELLY of H.R. 1817: Mr. MCNERNEY. Pennsylvania, and Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN CONGRESSIONAL EARMARKS, LIM- H.R. 1825: Mr. EVANS. GRISHAM of New Mexico. ITED TAX BENEFITS, OR LIM- H.R. 1861: Mr. O’ROURKE. H.R. 4966: Mrs. LOVE. ITED TARIFF BENEFITS H.R. 1870: Mr. CARBAJAL. H.R. 4983: Mr. SMITH of Texas. H.R. 1876: Mr. FASO, Ms. STEFANIK, and Mr. H.R. 5001: Mrs. DAVIS of California. Under clause 9 of rule XXI, lists or COLLINS of New York. H.R. 5012: Mr. NEWHOUSE. statements on congressional earmarks, H.R. 1928: Mr. KATKO. H.R. 5040: Mr. CHABOT. limited tax benefits, or limited tariff H.R. 1957: Mr. SCHIFF. H.R. 5041: Mr. BERGMAN. benefits were submitted as follows: H.R. 2043: Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN. H.R. 5096: Mr. DESAULNIER. H.R. 2069: Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. H.R. 5121: Mr. YOUNG of Iowa and Mr. TIP- OFFERED BY MR. BRADY OF TEXAS H.R. 2077: Mr. RASKIN and Mr. DUNCAN of TON. The provisions that warranted a referral to Tennessee. H.R. 5129: Mr. SHERMAN, Mr. POE of Texas, the Committee on Ways and Means in H.R. 4 H.R. 2095: Mr. LAWSON of Florida. and Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. do not contain any congressional earmarks, H.R. 2212: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY and Mr. GIBBS. H.R. 5132: Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. limited tax benefits, or limited tariff bene- H.R. 2242: Mr. GOMEZ and Mr. GRIJALVA. SWALWELL of California, Mr. OLSON, Mr. PA- fits as defined in clause 9 of rule XXI.

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Vol. 164 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, APRIL 17, 2018 No. 62 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was another chance to use the Congres- join with our colleagues from Pennsyl- called to order by the President pro sional Review Act and repeal yet an- vania and Kansas and add another vic- tempore (Mr. HATCH). other of the last administration’s run- tory to that list. f away regulations. Thanks to Senator f MORAN and Senator TOOMEY, today’s PRAYER effort will protect consumers from a TAX REFORM The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- brazen attempt by the past Director of Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, fered the following prayer: the Consumer Financial Protection Bu- today is tax day, the deadline for most Let us pray. reau to stretch his authority and inter- Americans to file their tax returns. For Almighty God, Ruler of the Universe, fere in the auto industry. many middle-class households, that the Sustainer of Life, and the Father of The Dodd-Frank Act of 2010 got a lot means sending too much of their hard- Humanity, great is Your faithfulness. of things wrong, but one thing Dodd- earned money off to the IRS—hardly Lord, forgive us when our courage wav- Frank got right was protecting auto cause for celebration. But this year, ers in the face of difficulties because dealers from meddling by the CFPB. the gray clouds of tax day have a silver we ignore Your abiding presence. Our Democratic colleagues are usu- lining. Today is the very last time that Thank You for imparting wisdom, pa- ally fans of Federal regulations. I guess American families will have to file tience, and strength to our lawmakers. even they had a hunch that, left un- under the unfair, outdated Tax Code Sustain them with Your presence, and checked, the Federal bureaucracy that Congress and the President got rid strengthen them with Your love. Lord, would find a way to put the brakes on of a few months ago. Out with the old keep them strong, hold them steady, this key industry—and how right they and in with the new. and carry them through each challenge were. Republicans’ historic overhaul cut In 2013, Federal regulators concocted with honor. Grant that they will meet taxes for families and small businesses. a loophole. They bypassed standard re- their hardships and setbacks with a We doubled the standard deduction, ex- view and public comment periods for firm faith in Your sustaining presence. panded the child tax credit, and low- Federal regulations and instead issued We pray in Your merciful Name. ered rates as well. And we accom- guidance that would regulate auto Amen. plished all of this while preserving key dealers’ ability to negotiate loan terms middle-class provisions, such as the f with their customers. Dodd-Frank already gave the CFPB mortgage interest deduction. The RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY upshot of all of this is simple: major LEADER unprecedented insulation from the American people’s elected representa- tax relief for middle-class families and The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. tives, but apparently that wasn’t a big shot in the arm for the U.S. econ- HYDE-SMITH). The majority leader is enough because they still attempted an omy, which will lead to more—and recognized. end run around the express prohibition higher-paying—homegrown American f on the regulation of auto dealers with jobs. guidance they assumed would not be Already, tax reform has given Amer- COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION ican workers a raise, since less of each BILL subject to the Congressional Review Act. Well, today Senator TOOMEY foiled paycheck needs to be withheld for the Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, that plan when he asked GAO for an IRS. When all is said and done, the yesterday afternoon I filed cloture on opinion on whether this guidance was, Treasury Department estimates that S. 1129, the Coast Guard Authorization in fact, intrusive rulemaking that our tax cuts will leave 90 percent of Act, a comprehensive package that should be subject to congressional re- wage-earners with more take-home equips an adaptable force to meet a va- view. GAO decided that indeed it was, pay—that is 90 percent of wage earners riety of important missions. I hope my and now Congress will have its say. with more take-home pay as a result of colleagues will join me in ensuring its Republicans are chopping away at our tax reform measure. swift consideration and passage this the tangled mess of regulations that In addition, millions of Americans week. the last administration left behind. are receiving special bonuses, pay f Our whole economy is getting a tune- raises, or new benefits from their em- up, and now it is time for the front end ployers as a direct result of tax reform. CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW ACT of the auto industry to come along for Thousand-dollar bonuses for workers at RESOLUTION the ride. Kansas City Southern Railway in Mis- Mr. MCCONNELL. First, Madam We used the Congressional Review souri; a higher starting wage at First President, the Senate will consider yet Act a record 15 times last year. Let’s Farmers Bank & Trust in Indiana;

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

S2191

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.000 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2192 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 higher wages and new job opportunities RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY Tribal bills on the floor, so many of at CSS Distribution Group, a small LEADER which have broad bipartisan support business packaging and distribution The PRESIDING OFFICER. The and could pass at least the Senate. company in Kentucky; billion-dollar Democratic leader is recognized. investments in pension plans for UPS f f and FedEx workers—the list goes on RUSSIA AND SPECIAL COUNSEL and on. CONGRATULATING THE PRESIDING LEGISLATION My Democratic colleagues from New OFFICER Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, on York and San Francisco scoff publicly Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, another issue, Russia and Mueller, yes- at the idea that a $2,000 tax cut or a congratulations. This is the first time, terday it was reported that President $1,000 bonus would make a difference at least when I am speaking on the Trump overruled the decision of his ad- for American families. They have floor, that the Presiding Officer is in ministration to implement new sanc- called these things ‘‘crumbs.’’ Some- the Chair. tions against Russia for its support of thing tells me they haven’t tried that Is this the first time the Presiding the brutal Assad regime in Syria in the talking point around many middle- Officer is in the Chair? wake of a chemical weapons attack class kitchen tables. I suspect they The Presiding Officer cannot answer. that was devastating. Our hearts go would be laughed out of the room. Let the record show that she nodded out when we see pictures like this. And these are just the first fruits. her head in an affirmative way. It is only the latest action in a long Tax reform laid the foundation for a f pattern of behavior in which President more prosperous future with more Trump opts to treat Russia and Presi- good-paying American jobs. That is be- TRIBAL LABOR SOVEREIGNTY dent Putin with kid gloves. It took a cause we made sending jobs overseas BILL very long time for President Trump to less appealing. We created new incen- Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, even utter a negative word about Mr. tives for businesses to invest, expand, first, a brief comment on the Tribal Putin, and his administration has time build, and hire right here at home. We Labor Sovereignty Act, which failed to and again delayed the implementation gave overseas competitors something move forward in the Senate last night. of sanctions. to worry about—a healthy, competitive Indian Affairs has very rarely found its Reports in the press said that Presi- U.S. economy. Already, job creators of way to the floor of the Senate, despite dent Trump was unhappy with his ad- all shapes and sizes are investing more a number of very pressing issues in In- ministration’s decision to expel 60 Rus- and expanding. For example, a fur- dian Country, including homelessness, sian diplomats after British citizens niture store in Ohio is planning a 4,500- educational disparities, language loss, were victims of a Russian-linked at- square-foot expansion, a craft brewery healthcare access, broadband access, tack. The decision to expel those dip- in Iowa is planning to open a new pro- and many more. For a number of years, lomats was correct, in my view, but ap- duction line, and a deck and patio Democrats and Republicans on the In- parently the President wasn’t happy builder in Virginia is hiring 10 new em- dian Affairs Committee have pushed with the decision by his own appointed ployees to meet rising demand, just to legislation that would alleviate these national security team. name a few. problems. On our side of the aisle, Sen- The White House shouldn’t have to Republicans designed every piece of ators UDALL, TESTER, SMITH, BALDWIN, drag the President kicking and scream- tax reform to benefit middle-class fam- HEINRICH, HEITKAMP, CANTWELL, and ing to do the right thing when it comes ilies and small businesses, both right MURRAY have worked very hard on bills to punishing Vladimir Putin and Rus- now and in the years and decades that deal with these very, very signifi- sia. His refusal to stand up to the ahead. That used to be a bipartisan pri- cant issues in Indian Country, but none Kremlin is troubling, and it leaves ority, but this time, Democrats chose of these bills have reached the floor. many Americans wondering: Why and to put political posturing ahead of The leader has refused to put bills what does the President have to hide? America’s best interests. Every single that would dramatically help Indian That is what 90 percent of all Ameri- Democrat in the House and every sin- Country on the floor. When, finally, a cans are asking themselves—Democrat, gle Democrat in the Senate voted to Tribal bill was brought forward by the Republican, liberal, conservative. His block tax reform—and by extension, majority leader, it was closed to actions with Putin have been so con- every bit of this good news—from hap- amendments and debate. Senator founding and so contrary to American pening. Later today, in fact, some of UDALL, our ranking member, wished to interests that there is virtually no ra- our colleagues across the aisle will be have amendments. Senator HOEVEN, tional explanation for them. demonstrating against the law right the chairman of the Indian Affairs At the same time, the President’s here on the grounds of the Capitol. I Committee, told me he wanted amend- rhetoric about the Russia probe should wonder whether they are protesting all ments. But the way Leader MCCONNELL concern all of us. Should he seek to the new jobs, or maybe it is the big brought it to the floor was with no shut down or impede the investigation family tax cuts, or maybe they are pro- amendments, no debate, and no discus- by firing the Deputy Attorney General testing the bonuses and wage hikes or sion. Even worse, it was a bill to scrap or Special Counsel Mueller, interfering all of the small business expansions. labor rights at a time when we should with the chain of command, or issuing Their first mistake was voting to block be doing everything we can to pardons, we would—make no mistake all of this in the first place. Now, even strengthen labor protections. The only about it—be in a full-fledged constitu- as the economy is starting to thrive, bill the leader would bring to the floor tional crisis. they want to repeal these historic tax is one that was divisive and destined to I urge my colleagues, all of my col- cuts and literally claw back the fail—a political act, not an act to help leagues—Democrat, Republican, Inde- money. But make no mistake—Repub- Indian Country. pendent—to support the bipartisan leg- licans will continue to stand and fight The AFL–CIO said that passage of islation in the Judiciary Committee for the American people. the measure ‘‘would have amounted to that would protect the special counsel Madam President, I suggest the ab- the most aggressive erosion of labor from a political firing. The rule of law sence of a quorum. protection since the 1940s.’’ is not a partisan issue. It is one of the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The After many years of waiting for Trib- most serious issues we face because clerk will call the roll. al issues to reach the floor, I think that is what is at the core of being an The senior assistant legislative clerk many of us were sorely disappointed American. That is why the whole world proceeded to call the roll. that the majority leader opted for this admires us. That is why so many fami- Mr. SCHUMER. Madam President, I incredibly divisive bill, done in such an lies like mine have been able to climb ask unanimous consent that the order incredibly divisive way. the ladder, starting out in poverty as for the quorum call be rescinded. I hope, now that the measure has my grandparents did, to a decent life. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without failed to advance, that the majority We cannot let the rule of law become a objection, it is so ordered. leader will consent to putting other partisan issue. Let us speak in one

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.001 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2193 loud, clear voice by passing this legis- 100,000 of them, the price of the remain- CONCLUSION OF MORNING lation through the Senate as soon as ing ones will go up. BUSINESS possible. Who benefits? Above all, those who The PRESIDING OFFICER. Morning Finally, as well, the contradictions, I have a lot of the stock shares—the business is closed. might add, in the administration are CEOs of the corporations and the f enormous. Nikki Haley must be so em- wealthiest heads of those companies. barrassed today. She forthrightly said Who else benefits? Shareholders. EXECUTIVE SESSION that we are going to be tough on Rus- Eighty percent of all shares in Amer- sia and do additional sanctions one ica, despite pensions and despite EXECUTIVE CALENDAR day, and then the President contra- 401(k)s, are held by the 10 percent—the dicted her the next. Do they talk to richest people in America. And one- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under each other? Do they have a set plan? Or third of all shares, totally, go to people the previous order, the Senate will pro- is it just up to the President’s whim, overseas. That is who benefits from ceed to executive session to consider day by day, moment by moment? When stock buybacks: corporate CEOs, the following nomination, which the it comes to Russia, it is far too serious wealthy shareholders, people over- clerk will report. to rely on whim, changing attitudes, seas—more than the average American The legislative clerk read the nomi- and maybe an 800-pound gorilla in the worker. That is what has happened. nation of Carlos G. Muniz, of Florida, room. There is something the Presi- Listen to this. According to a recent to be General Counsel, Department of dent is worried about. analysis by JUST Capital, only 6 per- Education. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under f cent of the capital allocated by compa- the previous order, the time until 12:30 REPUBLICAN TAX BILL nies from the tax bill’s savings has gone to employees, while nearly 60 per- p.m. will be equally divided between Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, fi- cent has gone to shareholders. That the two leaders or their designees. The Senator from Massachusetts. nally, today is tax day. That is prob- statistic gets to the very core of the ably America’s least favorite holiday. debate. Who benefited from the tax CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW ACT RESOLUTION It is appropriate today to look back at bill? It was mainly wealthy CEOs, a lot Ms. WARREN. Mr. President, just what has happened since the Repub- of foreigners, and the wealthiest people weeks after making it harder to stop licans passed their tax bill last year. in America—not the average working discrimination in mortgage lending, Since the beginning of the tax debate, person. the Senate is now on the verge of vot- Republicans have insisted their bill is As USA Today put it last week: ing to make it harder to stop discrimi- about cutting taxes for working Ameri- nation in auto lending. The number of companies letting workers About 40 years ago, Congress passed cans. Even though the crux of their bill know they are getting a bonus, raise or other was a massive corporate tax cut, they form of financial compensation has slowed to the important civil rights law called said that workers would benefit the a trickle. Most of the extra cash from tax the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. most. Even though it would direct 83 savings is going into the pockets of stock That law said companies couldn’t dis- percent of the benefits to the top 1 per- shareholders through dividend increases and criminate when offering a loan. It was cent, they said that the bill would be a companies buying back their own stock in a simple idea: Loan terms should be ‘‘middle-class miracle.’’ hopes of boosting its price. based on creditworthiness, not on the How many middle-class people today The whole theory of the Republican color of someone’s skin. think that tax bill is a miracle? Not tax bill can be summed up in two The Consumer Financial Protection many. The only way that could have words: ‘‘trickle down.’’ The whole the- Bureau is one of the Federal agencies been true was if corporations had de- ory was to lavish corporations and the responsible for enforcing that 40-year- cided to invest a substantial amount of already wealthy with tax cuts and old law. The CFPB found out that when their newfound profits in workers. maybe the benefits might trickle down auto dealers were helping customers That is what Republicans, after all, ar- to everyone else. We are already seeing get financing for a car loan, minority gued would happen. the balloon burst on that idea as cor- customers were often given worse loans We Democrats warned that if you porations dedicate an enormous per- than their White counterparts. The un- gave the big corporations the lion’s centage of the tax savings to stock derlying reason was something called a share of the tax cuts, corporations buybacks and only a sliver to worker dealer reserve, where the lenders pro- would do what they always do when compensation. That is why the Repub- viding the financing for a car loan gave they have higher profits and extra lican bill is not popular. A poll out the dealer discretion to mark up the cash—distribute it amongst them- from NBC News/Wall Street Journal— interest rate on the loan and the dealer selves, have a nice little party. Unfor- Wall Street Journal, hardly a working could keep some of the additional prof- tunately, the evidence is mounting man’s newspaper—showed that only 27 it from the markup. The problem was that our predictions, as much as we percent of Americans think the tax the growing evidence that dealers wish they hadn’t come true, were pre- cuts were a good idea. That is fitting marked up loans higher for minorities scient. news on tax day, one of the least pop- than for Whites with similar credit Since the passage of the tax bill—lis- ular days of the year. profiles. ten to this—corporations have spent I yield the floor. In 2013, the CFPB issued guidance to over $250 billion on share buybacks. I suggest the absence of a quorum. these lenders about how they could That is putting corporations on track The PRESIDING OFFICER. The make sure they were complying with to spend between $800 billion and $1 clerk will call the roll. the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. trillion on share buybacks this year The senior assistant legislative clerk They could institute more rigorous alone, outstripping the previous pace. proceeded to call the roll. oversight of their auto financing proc- People may ask: What is a share Ms. WARREN. Mr. President, I ask ess to get rid of these discriminatory buyback? Here is what it is. A corpora- unanimous consent that the order for practices or they could stop using the tion has a lot of money. Some things the quorum call be rescinded. dealer reserves that facilitated these they can do are pay workers more, give The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. KEN- discriminatory practices and just pay family leave, treat their employees NEDY). Without objection, it is so or- dealers a flat fee per loan instead. better. Another thing they could do is dered. After issuing the guidance, the CFPB invest in new plants and equipment, found that a few auto lenders were not new training to make that corporation f following the guidance. It entered into more efficient and to sell more of its settlements with Fifth Third and the goods. Those are good things. financing arms of both Honda and Toy- What is a bad thing? Buying back the RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME ota. These settlements returned mil- stock. What is buying back the stock? The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under lions of dollars to people who had been The corporation says: We have a mil- the previous order, the leadership time charged more for car loans simply lion shares outstanding. If we buy back is reserved. based on the color of their skin.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.003 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2194 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 A lot of auto dealers and auto lenders The Senator from Michigan. see our authority to set standards dis- don’t like the CFPB’s guidance, which COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION BILL appear, repealing what the State of brings us to today, when the Senate is Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, Michigan—the Governor of the State about to vote on reversing this guid- today I rise to talk about an issue that and the legislature—has done over the ance and prohibiting the CFPB from is extremely important to my State of years to protect the water that lit- ever issuing similar guidance again. Michigan. In Michigan, we take great erally surrounds our peninsula. It This is part of the broader Repub- pride in the fact that we are never means that legal challenges to ensure lican attack on the efforts to fight eco- more than 6 miles from a body of water strong standards will be curtailed as nomic discrimination. House Repub- or more than 85 miles from one of our well. licans have passed multiple bills that incredibly amazing Great Lakes. Why is this important? would make it harder to enforce fair In fact, one out of five jobs in Michi- Legal action under the Clean Water lending laws. Since assuming control of gan in some way is tied to the water. Act has arguably been the primary the CFPB, Mick Mulvaney has taken So this is really about who we are. It is driver for requiring new ballast water steps to undermine the agency’s Office in our DNA in Michigan when we talk standards. Preventing invasive species of Fair Lending. about the Great Lakes. In terms of the from hitching a ride in ballast water is The vote today is also a troubling country, it is important for all of us to really a big deal. In fact, the cost of followup to the recent bank deregula- care about the Great Lakes because 95 fighting invasive species nationwide is tion bill that just passed the Senate. percent of the surface fresh water in about $120 billion every year. In Michi- That bill reduced data reporting re- the United States is in the Great gan, we are spending anywhere up to quirements for 85 percent of the banks Lakes. It is 20 percent of the world’s $800 million a year dealing with in this country, making it harder for fresh water, but 95 percent of our fresh invasive species that are already here. Federal agencies to monitor mortgage water in the United States is in the One of our big nightmares is that Asian lending, uncover discrimination, and Great Lakes. Through our Great Lakes carp that have been coming up the Mis- enforce the law. Now the Senate is con- Task Force, we are always working to- sissippi and Illinois Rivers will hit the sidering rolling back guidance that ex- gether. All the Senators and House Great Lakes. If we don’t have the ca- plains how lenders can avoid discrimi- Members around the Great Lakes have pacity to do what we need to do there, nation when providing auto loans. a special responsibility to step up and it is going to be a disaster for the Let’s be clear. Discrimination in auto protect them, but we all should care Great Lakes. lending is alive and well. The National because of the incredible natural re- Let me also say that on the Great Fair Housing Alliance recently sent sources they provide. Lakes, we have what we call our two people—one White, one non- Unfortunately, perhaps no other body lakers, which are huge cargo vessels. If White—to eight car dealerships in Vir- of water in the United States has been you have been to the Great Lakes, you ginia. Even though the non-White per- as harmed by invasive species as the can look out at it. It looks like you are son had better credit than the White Great Lakes. It is ballast water that looking at the ocean with big barges. has brought the majority of these person in each instance, the non-White We call the Great Lakes, of course, the invasive species into the Great Lakes. person ended up with a more expensive ocean without the salt or sharks. We They are first brought in from salt loan half of the time. Think about have barges. that—better credit and paid more for water into the Great Lakes, and then I have been a strong supporter of the the loan. In fact, in those cases, the they are moved around within the lakers. They are vital to our economy, non-White person would have paid Great Lakes after they get there. and they really do a wonderful job. But I am very concerned about legisla- $2,500 more over the life of their loan unfortunately, when we look at pro- tion in front of us that would weaken than the White person with worse cred- tecting the Great Lakes, giving a de it. our ability to protect the Great Lakes. We need to do everything we can to facto exemption, which is in this bill, The last thing we should be doing is from these vessels ever having to be re- making it harder to crack down on maintain strong ballast water stand- ards and maintain what we need to quired to install ballast water control that kind of discrimination. As a wide technologies is not in the interest of array of civil rights and consumer under the Clean Water Act to protect the waters. It is incredibly important protecting our waters. groups recently wrote, ‘‘Discrimination The good news is that, as the lakers for me to speak out, along with my col- in auto lending continues to extract travel within the Great Lakes, they billions of dollars a year in extra loan leagues, about what is in front of us. I strongly support the Coast Guard aren’t bringing in the salt water bal- payments from borrowers of color; Con- last, but, unfortunately, they move gress should be taking action to end bill. In fact, I strongly support the Coast Guard. I think we have the best them around. We saw this with zebra this injustice, not interfering with ef- mussels that were in the lower part of forts to enforce fair lending laws.’’ and the brightest in the Michigan Coast Guard. I am very proud of them, the Great Lakes. Unfortunately, they A vote in favor of the resolution get moved around all the way up to today is a vote to support the Trump but I am deeply opposed to attaching a bill to that critical legislation that Lake Superior because of the vessels administration’s systemic dismantling that are moving. It does make a dif- of fair lending laws in this country. It would undermine our ability to fight invasive species under the Clean Water ference having those standards. is a vote in favor of Mick Mulvaney’s Beyond the ballast water though, one efforts to leash up the CFPB’s Office of Act and that would take away the rights of our States to be able to pro- of the things that I just recently found Fair Lending. It is a vote in favor of al- out about this addition to the Coast lowing some auto lenders and dealers tect our waters. This new version of what has been Guard bill that is concerning in a very to continue to charge African Ameri- dubbed VIDA, or the Vessel Incidental large way, on top of all this, is that it cans and Latinos hundreds and thou- Discharge Act, requires the Coast not only curtails State ballast water sands more just because of their race. laws, but many States have regulations I urge all of my colleagues to oppose Guard to set ballast water standards in consultation with the EPA, but it has to limit other discharges of oils and this resolution. chemicals and so on. Often times, these Thank you. always been in reverse. The Coast I yield the floor. Guard is not responsible for the protec- rules are in place to protect sensitive I suggest the absence of a quorum. tions. They do fantastic work, but it is areas like oyster beds or corals, which, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The not their job in terms of water quality. again, are out in the salt water. For us, clerk will call the roll. That is the EPA. Unfortunately, this this is about the fact that it would re- The legislative clerk proceeded to legislation that has been attached to move the ability for States to regulate call the roll. the Coast Guard bill removes the au- other harmful chemicals. Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, I ask thority to regulate ballast water dis- I will give you one example that is unanimous consent that the order for charges under the Clean Water Act. becoming a nightmare for us in Michi- the quorum call be rescinded. That is a problem for a lot of reasons. gan. I think it will eventually be in The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without First of all, it means that States like every State. That is a runoff of a regu- objection, it is so ordered. the Great Lakes State of Michigan will lated type of foam that has been used

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.004 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2195 forever in fire suppression. There is a I urge us to take a step back, and be- means. This one change alone, all by group of chemicals that they dump fore voting to proceed to concur with itself, means that 95 percent of tax- called PFOS. That is the acronym. We this, that we take a step back together payers will be taking the standard de- have fire suppression equipment that and take a look at the broader implica- duction from now on. It means people has been used at training facilities and tions of the way this language is put will not have to waste a lot of time others on our Air Force bases, Army together. I strongly support the Coast wading through paperwork and boxes bases, National Guard bases, and so on, Guard bill. I think everybody here is of receipts. People will not have to for a long time. It is not used anymore. going to regret it if this moves forward spend hours chasing after little On the west side of Michigan, we have with this additional language. Cer- itemized deductions, as they have done private companies making footwear tainly, I am not going to support it. year after year on tax day. They will and other kinds of products where Because of the ballast water concerns not just be crossing their fingers, hop- these water-resistant chemicals have alone, I would not. But you add on top ing they are doing everything right, been used in all kinds of ways for a of that taking away the State’s capac- hoping they don’t overpay, and hoping long time. ity to be able to address these toxic they don’t run afoul of the law by not Across the country, States like chemicals that we are now finding ev- paying the amount that is required by Michigan are struggling to address se- erywhere—not only in Michigan, but law. It is going to be much simpler and rious contamination of drinking water across the country—and I think they much fairer. caused by a chemical that has been should be sending off alarm bells to ev- When I thought of all of the things used in this firefighting foam. At our eryone. we have been working on with tax re- National Guard training center, Camp I know that Senator CARPER and the lief, tax reform, tax reductions, to me, Grayling in Northern Michigan—which EPW Committee have been working on it can be summed up in just two words: is the largest one in the country for a real solution to address this issue. I simpler and lower. Taxes needed to be the National Guard—we have a beau- personally think we can do that on a lower, and they needed to be simpler. tiful lake. We have a lot of lakes. This bipartisan basis. I hope we will. So what we are seeing now is both sim- beautiful lake is in the middle of this This is a vote, I think, that many pler and lower taxes. That is a big very large facility. We now see this will regret down the road as this PFOS change that people are going to notice. foam flowing on top of the water. For chemical contamination becomes more people with private property around They are noticing it now in their pay- widespread. The firefighting foam the lake, this foam chemical now is checks, but they are really going to no- wasn’t just used in Michigan or in a floating on top of the water. The town- tice it next April 15 when they file ships are looking at ways that they can few States. It was around the country. their taxes. Americans will not have to wait until go from individual wells to some kind I think taking away the State’s ability next year to see a lot of the benefits of of municipal water system, but it is to be able to address that in their this tax relief law. They are seeing it touching every part of Michigan. My State is a very serious issue. I would guess is that before it is done, because urge my colleagues to vote no on this today because the law wasn’t just tax these types of foams were used all over motion. Let us go back and take an- reform and simplification; it was an the country, we are going to see it ev- other look at it and figure out some immediate, big tax cut as well. It erywhere, and we are going to have different language. Certainly, we all means hard-working Americans are real challenges. support the Coast Guard. If we want to seeing money in their paychecks, and I am very appreciative that the De- take VIDA out and do the Coast Guard they are seeing it today. partment of Defense appropriations bill, that is great. If we want to look at Average wages have gone up nearly 3 money was added for a study to look at the issues around VIDA—and I appre- percent. That is a big increase com- the broader safety issues and public ciate the concerns around that—let’s pared to the stagnant wage growth we health issues that relate to this so we do it in a way that makes sense for the saw during the entire previous admin- know that the right standards are set. people we represent and the States who istration. There are standards now, but we need need to be able to act now. In Michi- According to the Bureau of Economic to be looking more deeply at the im- gan, this has become a huge issue Analysis, American workers brought pacts on ground water and so on. We around this group of toxic chemicals. home almost $200 billion more in Feb- are going to have a lot of remediation I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote. Whenever we ruary than they did in December. Some to do for the public sector as well as vote—I believe it may be tomorrow—I of it came right away in the form of bo- private sector. hope that we take a step back and nuses that companies handed out be- Here is the problem. This bill says work together to get this right. cause of the tax law; some of it came that States can no longer issue any I yield the floor. when employers cut the amount of in- regulation on the use of these foams I suggest the absence of a quorum. come tax that they were withholding which may contain toxic substances. It The PRESIDING OFFICER. The from a worker’s paycheck; and some of is not only ballast water that we care clerk will call the roll. it was because of higher wages we have deeply about. States that don’t have The legislative clerk proceeded to seen with raises announced across the the beautiful Great Lakes around them call the roll. country. It all adds up to about $200 or our coastlines are impacted by these Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I ask billion more for hard-working Ameri- toxic substances that we are finding unanimous consent that the order for cans. more of every day—these chemicals the quorum call be rescinded. That is money people can then spend that were used everywhere. I am sure The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without on things that are important to them people thought they were safe when objection, it is so ordered. and their families. It is about Amer- they were using them. Now we are find- TAX REFORM ican families’ priorities, not nec- ing out they were not, and they have a Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, essarily how the government thinks it huge impact. today is the last tax day under the old, can spend its money better than the This is especially problematic when awful, and broken tax system that the American people. It is money people the States—not the Federal Govern- American people have had to put up can save for things such as tuition for ment—are on the frontline in address- with for decades. their kids, a new car, or whatever they ing this new awareness of citizens Under the tax relief law that Repub- want to save for. People notice that about the impact of the ground water licans passed in this body in Decem- kind of difference in their take-home contamination. This bill would take ber—it was signed by President Trump pay. It makes a big difference in their away the capacity for States to be able and passed the House, as well—we now lives. to act. I don’t think any of the sup- a have a simpler and fairer system and, Another thing that happens when we porters of the bill intended for this to so importantly, one that is much less cut taxes is that businesses have more happen. In fact, many of the pro- expensive for American families. money to hire more workers. I have ponents of the bill have been leaders in One big thing we did in the tax law seen it happen in Wyoming. I have seen the effort in the Senate to address was to double the standard deduction it as I travel the State. In city after these chemicals. that people can take. This is what it city, town after town, community after

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.006 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2196 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 community, businesses are hiring more been in two decades—20 years. That is across the Nation finish filing their workers locally. In fact, the American the confidence of the American people taxes, I come to the floor to discuss the economy has added over 600,000 new in the economy. most recent tax reform bill considered jobs just since Republicans passed and In a second survey, the polling firm by the U.S. Senate and House of Rep- President Trump signed the tax law in Gallup found that investor optimism is resentatives. December. at ‘‘the highest levels . . . in 17 years.’’ Last year, Republicans followed These are jobs at places like Kroger. When we talk about investors, we are through with their promise and used a That grocery store chain—and they talking about families in Wyoming special procedural approach called rec- have a number of convenience stores, who are saving for their retirement. onciliation, which allowed them to as well, serving all around Wyoming— They have seen the effects of Repub- bring a tax reform plan to the floor said last week that they are going to lican policies like the tax relief law. outside of regular order and without be hiring 11,000 new workers. Those They have seen what we are doing to committee hearings and the ordinary aren’t just people at headquarters; cut regulations so the economy can amendment-invoked process. Demo- these are people in stores all across the grow, so people can be free to live their crats were not really participants in country—cashiers, produce clerks, lives and make decisions for them- this but only observers, under the rec- workers in prepared food sections of selves. They have seen what happens onciliation process. That tax plan has the store. It is good for the American when Washington starts to put Amer- now become the law of the land, and economy and good for the communities ica first again. All of those things, now we know what it is doing. It has where these people are being hired. added together, make people confident created a massive tax giveaway to the If someone has money in their pock- in our economy, and it gives them opti- largest multinational corporations, to et, they can decide to spend some of it, mism for the future. the wealthiest corporate CEOs, and to give some to charity, invest some, or The only people who aren’t feeling well-connected campaign donors. save some—whatever they want to do. optimistic right now are the Demo- In passing this plan, Republicans said It is their money. crats in Congress who, across the that if they could just cut taxes In some of the stores similar to board, voted against this tax relief law. enough for large corporations, these Kroger in Cheyenne, Casper, Gillette, Republicans voted to lower taxes, and corporations would invest in America, Rock Springs—but we are seeing it all Democrats voted for higher taxes. Now give breaks to their employees, and around the country—stores are hiring Democrats seem to be desperately try- create more employment. The benefits more people. They are increasing bene- ing to spin their way out of the terrible of these tax breaks to the corporations fits for people who want to continue choices that they have made. supposedly would trickle down to their education or get a GED. All of Over the weekend, the former Speak- workers in the form of higher wages, these things are benefiting our coun- er of the House of Representatives, and the economy would explode, cre- ating new jobs. try. The companies say it is directly NANCY PELOSI, said that the Repub- The tax plan was voted on favorably because they are saving money under lican tax cuts ‘‘are unfair to America’s working families.’’ Who is she kidding? by every Republican in the U.S. Sen- the tax law. ate, and it added $1.5 trillion to the na- We have heard this story again and The only thing unfair would be if tional debt, to fund these massive cor- again. You have heard it in your State, Democrats get their wish and repeal porate tax cuts. So what did the cor- and I have heard it in mine. They are the tax cuts that we passed and raise porations do with their tax cut bene- hiring because they are saving more taxes, which apparently is what they want to do. fits? They turned around and took money under the tax law. I have spoken to a lot of working their taxpayer-funded tax cut and gave A lot of companies are paying more families at home in Wyoming. They are their wealthy CEOs and shareholders a because they want to hold on to the overjoyed at the extra money they raise. So far, in 2018, large corporations workers they have. That is one reason have gotten in their paychecks since have announced over $235 billion in the initial jobless claims number for the Republicans cut taxes. Americans stock buybacks—far outpacing the rate the first week of April has dropped. know that the economy has created of companies announcing one-time bo- The claims of people who are out of 605,000 new jobs since we passed tax re- nuses for their workers. Not only that, work and have filed for benefits from lief. They know we are breaking but more than 100,000 employees in the government have dropped by 9,000 records for low numbers of people filing large corporations have actually been people. That is a sign that people are for unemployment. People see that the terminated. You couldn’t get further keeping their jobs and don’t need to average wages are up—much higher from tax relief for working families if apply for unemployment benefits. than they were a year ago. They know you tried. The number of jobless claims has the Republicans cut taxes, doubled the It gets worse. The Congressional been low now for the longest stretch standard deduction, got rid of the Budget Office reported last week that ever. They have been keeping records ObamaCare individual mandate tax, the Republican tax plan will actually since 1967, and nobody has ever seen it and changed the death tax, which is a cost another $300 billion beyond the like this. $1.5 trillion estimate. Our children and One economist looked at all the good big issue for our farmers and ranchers in Wyoming and for small business grandchildren will pay off the cost of news and said: ‘‘The job market is rip- this tax cut for the wealthiest people roaring.’’ The American people don’t owners. Hard-working Americans who just in America and the largest corpora- need an economist to tell them that. filled out their taxes know the Repub- tions. So much for the promise that All they need to do is look around their licans are on their side, and the last these tax cuts would pay for them- own hometown. I see it at home in Wy- thing they want is to hear Democrats selves. It will cost us roughly $1.9 tril- oming. Businesses are hiring. Workers talking about raising taxes again. lion over 10 years for these tax cuts for are getting bonuses. They are getting Thank you. major corporations and wealthy people. raises. They are seeing more money in I yield the floor. This is a burden our children and their paychecks. People all across I suggest the absence of a quorum. grandchildren will bear. America are feeling better about their The PRESIDING OFFICER. The So what are we hearing now when it jobs. I see confidence and optimism at clerk will call the roll. comes to the budget? Just last week, home. People are feeling better about The legislative clerk proceeded to after seeing that the plan they voted their own personal financial situation. call the roll. for was expected to add $1.9 trillion to It is certainly the case at home in Wy- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask the deficit, Republican Tennessee Sen- oming. unanimous consent that the order for ator CORKER said: ‘‘If it ends up costing There have been a couple of surveys the quorum call be rescinded. what has been laid out here, it could that have come out recently. In one of The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without well be one of the worst votes I’ve them, the Pew Research Center found objection, it is so ordered. made.’’ that the number of people who say that REPUBLICAN TAX PLAN The so-called fiscal conservatives this economy is in good or excellent Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, today, here in the Senate didn’t seem as con- condition is now the highest it has as millions of Americans in Illinois and cerned about the deficit when they

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.007 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2197 were voting for a 10-figure increase with. It does a lot of good things for an using the best technology available to that would go to cut taxes for wealthy important part of our military service. prevent the discharge of harmful people and large corporations. But It helps equip the Coast Guard with the chemicals into their primary drinking make no mistake—as predictably as tools they are going to need so they water and invasive species, but the night follows day, we now have a re- can keep us safe and be part of the crit- bill’s exemptions go far beyond the newed call in the House of Representa- ical homeland security mission. There Great Lakes. tives for a budget amendment—a con- is, however, one provision in the bill Another provision of VIDA would stitutional, balanced budget, ‘‘stop me that should not be there. prevent EPA and States from enforcing before I sin again’’ amendment. Now This bill was reported by the Com- standards to stop the shipping industry that Republicans have exploded the merce Committee. One of the provi- from releasing fluorinated chemicals deficit, the absolutely vital public as- sions in this bill should never have into the lakes and oceans across the sistance programs like Social Security, started in the Commerce Committee; it country. Many of my colleagues have Medicare, and Medicaid are now at should be in the Environment Com- become familiar with chemicals like risk. If there is a balanced budget mittee. It is known as the Vessel Inci- PFAS and PFOA after they contami- amendment, they have said that we dental Discharge Act, or VIDA. This nated critical groundwater sources in have to get to the basic programs like provision in the Coast Guard reauthor- their own States. Social Security, Medicare, and Med- ization bill will undermine the Clean As the ranking member of the De- icaid to make up the difference. I think Water Act just to give a generous deal fense Appropriations Subcommittee, I it is unconscionable to give tax breaks to one specific industry. can’t tell you how many colleagues to people who are well off and com- VIDA exempts the shipping industry from all across the United States have fortable and then to cut the basics of from being regulated by the Environ- now discovered that these human existence for many senior citi- mental Protection Agency under the perfluorinated chemicals are a danger zens in Social Security and Medicare. Clean Water Act. It places it instead to their drinking supply and a public The devastating first act of the Re- under the Coast Guard. The Coast health hazard. They come to me beg- publican tax plan and fiscal conserv- Guard is a great organization, and ging for Federal funds to clean up the atives, as they define it, has exploded there are great men and women serving messes at military bases and airports. our Nation’s deficit and provided enor- there. The Coast Guard, however, has Now we are considering a bill on the mous benefit to those who, frankly, no expertise in setting standards for floor that weakens the standard for re- don’t need it. We can’t let the second clean water; the Environmental Pro- lease of those chemicals into our water act be a balanced budget constitutional tection Agency has that responsibility. supply. What are we thinking? Is the amendment that will end up pillaging This bill takes that responsibility shipping industry worth that much the basic programs that help low- and away from the EPA. that we turn our backs on this public middle-income Americans the most in This bill also preempts the States health hazard? the name of fiscal responsibility. and their rights to implement their I have seen how the military has used COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION BILL own standards that would meet specific these chemicals over the years for le- Mr. President, there was a poll in the needs and limits the public’s ability to gitimate purposes like firefighting. city of Chicago a few years ago by the seek action in court. Now we are going to spend millions of Chicago Tribune, and they asked the Who opposes this bill? The attorney dollars cleaning them up, and this residents of that city: What is the general of the State of Illinois, as well Coast Guard bill is going to make it greatest asset in the city of Chicago? as the attorneys general from New worse. Allowing the commercial ship- Overwhelmingly, they all said the same York, California, Maine, Massachu- ping industry to freely release these thing: Lake Michigan. That is under- setts, Michigan, Oregon, Rhode Island, chemicals into bodies of water without standable. If you have been to that Vermont, and Washington, so far. proper oversight is downright dis- The bill’s supporters say all of this is beautiful city and seen that lakefront gusting. and realized the impact it has on the necessary to establish a uniform na- All of these reasons are why more quality of life, it is understandable tional standard, but the bill doesn’t do than 115 environmental organizations that Chicagoans would value it the that. Instead, it cuts a big Great have announced their opposition to most. Lakes-sized doughnut hole out of its this Coast Guard bill. It has nothing to Millions of people visit Lake Michi- own standard and exempts ships oper- do with the Coast Guard—we value gan each year. They swim, kayak, and ating on the Great Lakes from meeting them; we treasure them; we want to boat. They just walk along the beach the same ‘‘best available control tech- help them—but to slip this provision and have little picnics. It really is a nology’’ standard that all other ship- in, this environmental rider which en- major asset. The lake is the primary pers are required to meet. It is a sweet- dangers the water supply for millions source of drinking water for more than heart deal for shippers on the Great of Americans, is just wrong. 10 million people not just in Illinois Lakes. but in Wisconsin, Indiana, Michigan, VIDA also makes it almost impos- Despite all these objections, Senator and many other States. Together, the sible for anyone to ever require ships MCCONNELL now wants to bring this Great Lakes support a multibillion- operating on the Great Lakes to install bill to the floor in a way that will limit dollar fishing industry, dozens of local new pollution controls in the future. debate, doesn’t allow for any amend- economies, and thousands of small This means these ships would likely ments to change it, and provides no businesses. However, the Coast Guard never be required to use any available pathway to improve the bill or to de- reauthorization bill, which could come technology to prevent the spread of lete this terrible provision. This is not before the Senate as early as tomor- invasive species like mussels, blood red how to consider an issue that is so im- row, will do irreversible damage to the shrimp, and Asian carp. portant with so many people concerned Great Lakes, and I am urging my col- I can’t tell you how much money we about it. leagues to oppose it. have spent to stop the Asian carp from I urge my colleagues, when this It is not uncommon in this Chamber invading the Great Lakes. We think it measure of the Coast Guard reauthor- for Members from each State to stand is going to destroy the Great Lakes as ization comes up for a vote on cloture up from time to time and tell a story a marine habitat if we are not careful, on concurrence, to vote no. to their colleagues about something in and we have stopped them so far. This Today it is the Great Lakes. Tomor- their State of great personal value to irresponsible measure as part of the row it is your backyard, it is your them and to plead with their col- Coast Guard reauthorization goes in water supply that some special interest leagues to understand what this means exactly the opposite direction. It opens group will want to contaminate in the and to stand by them in protecting a the door for invasive species invading name of more profits. We can do better. great natural resource or a great nat- our Great Lakes through ballast water. We owe it to our kids to do better. ural asset. That is unacceptable. I yield the floor. The bill itself—the Coast Guard reau- Chicagoans deserve to know that The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. thorization—I don’t have a problem ships operating on Lake Michigan are CRUZ). The Senator from Arizona.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.009 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2198 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 UNANIMOUS CONSENT REQUEST—H.R. 1551 the decision of the President of the not an unreasonable question. The free Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, I rise United States to order precision mis- world must therefore stand unified today, as I have and will continue to do sile strikes on three facilities in Syria against the use of chemical weapons. until we find a resolution to this issue. last Friday night. The failure to do so sends a signal of I rise to advocate for a solution to ad- This action demonstrates American idleness or even complicity to the dic- dress the issue of securing our border leadership in the face of gross human tators of the world. and protecting those young immi- rights violations and, as we all recall, The Geneva Protocol that eventually grants impacted by an uncertain future President Obama’s redline, which was led to the Chemical Weapons Conven- in the DACA Program. not enforced, which indeed is a provo- tion has been ratified by more than 190 Last month, I offered legislation to cation in and of itself. nations. This means there is a near extend DACA for 3 years and to provide I am glad this President has seen fit global consensus that the kinds of gas 3 years of increased funding for border now, not just once but on two occa- attacks perpetrated by Bashar al-Assad security—this so-called 3-for-3 plan. sions, to punish the Syrian regime for are completely out of bounds, even in Unfortunately, some of my colleagues such gross human rights violations. war zones. have repeatedly chosen to block this These actions are consistent with our As I stand here today, I want to offer measure from coming to the floor, but values and legal authorities provided my support for both the mission that the President’s decision to send Na- to the President under the Constitu- was carried out and the underlying ob- tional Guard troops to the border dis- tion. They are similar to decisions jective, which was to degrade Syria’s plays a continued interest to secure made by Presidents Clinton and Obama capability to research, develop, and de- the border. To take care of that aspect, in Kosovo and Libya. ploy chemical weapons—ones that have this bill would provide significant re- While not unprecedented, clearly clearly done tremendous amounts of sources to do just that, to help secure what occurred is very serious. So I harm. the border, at the same time protecting want to take just a few moments to ex- The targets of our Syrian missile these young immigrants from possible plain why I think the strikes were jus- strikes were a research center and two deportation. tified and were the appropriate course storage facilities used in the produc- I am the first to admit this solution of action taken against the Assad re- tion and testing of chemical and bio- is far from perfect, but it provides a gime. logical weapons. We hope that now temporary fix for these critical prob- What we now know is, the Syrian that these facilities are destroyed, lems and will provide all sides of the government, on April 7, attacked civil- Assad will be perhaps persuaded not to debate with just enough of what they ians in the city of Duma, killing at use chemical weapons once and for all. want. It is a compromise. It would least 70 and injuring 500 more. To carry There is reason to be skeptical, as we begin the process of funding the Presi- out the attack, the regime used chlo- know, since he has before. We all re- dent’s plan to improve border security rine and sarin gas against its own peo- member last year when we struck Syr- and, as I mentioned, ensure DACA re- ple. We know this because credible ian airfields after similar provocations. cipients will not lose protections and medical personnel—including the Bashar al-Assad ignored our warning, face possible deportation. World Health Organization—reported gassed his own people, and has now These young immigrants were physical symptoms that indicated paid a higher price. Will it be enough? brought here through no fault of their these substances had been used. People Who can know, but I hope so. The con- own. They have waited long enough for were convulsing in the streets, their sequences of his cruel and repressive these protections. Likewise, border nervous systems were attacked, their tactics were swift and circumscribed communities, like in my home State of pupils were constricted, all telltale airstrikes ordered by the President of Arizona, have waited long enough for signs of these chemicals. the United States. They protected increased security along our southern When civilians suffer in this way, against the loss of innocent life and border. there is nothing normal or acceptable avoided sparking a larger regional con- As I have said before, we in Congress about it—even in a country grappling flict. have too regularly confused action with a brutal civil war. That Bashar al- We are grateful to our allies, Great with results and have been entirely too Assad inflicted these crimes on his own Britain and France, which played a piv- comfortable ignoring problems that are people makes them even darker and otal role in the mission. We are also just actually tough to solve. We may more insidious. grateful to our uniformed military for not be able to deliver a permanent so- Chemical weapons have long been the their meticulous planning, flawless lution to these problems at this time, kind of redline in the realm of armed, execution, and courageous leadership. but we now have an opportunity to international conflict. After World War TAX REFORM offer at least some action on them. I, the 1925 Geneva Protocol banned Mr. President, on another matter There are many people whose lives and chemical and biological weapons be- that is very much on Americans’ well-being depend on our ability to de- cause they are different in kind from minds, today is tax day. This is the day liver meaningful results. guns, sabers, and bombs. our 2017 tax returns are due, and I Therefore, I ask unanimous consent One reason they are different is be- know many Texans are breathing a that the Senate proceed to the imme- cause of the suffering they inflict on sigh of relief, knowing what lies just diate consideration of Calendar No. 300, their victims. Another reason is be- around the corner, and that is because H.R. 1551. I further ask that the Flake cause of their indiscriminate nature. today is the last time Americans will substitute amendment at the desk be Gases, by their very nature, are impos- file taxes under the old, broken Tax considered and agreed to, the bill, as sible to control. They spread in the at- Code that we overhauled last year in amended, be considered read a third mosphere. You can’t quarantine gas in- the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. time and passed, and the motion to re- side of a defined battlefield, which Yesterday, our friend Representative consider be considered made and laid means civilians can’t and will not be KEVIN BRADY in the House wrote that upon the table. spared. In other words, there is nothing now we can finally say ‘‘Goodbye and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there surgical or targeted about these weap- good riddance to that outdated mon- objection? ons. The use of them can’t be tailored strosity of a tax code that took [so] The Senator from Arkansas. to avoid harming children and innocent much of [Americans’] money, sent [so Mr. COTTON. Mr. President, I object. bystanders. They are instruments of many American] jobs overseas, and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Objec- terror, short and simple, and their bru- kept our economy so slow, many work- tion is heard. tality and lethality are stunning. ers didn’t see a pay raise for a decade If no one yields time, the time will be A third reason these weapons are so or more.’’ charged equally. atrocious is because of the slippery It has been estimated that after-tax The majority whip. slope they provide. If gas attacks are income in Texas will increase by close SYRIA tolerated in the international commu- to $2,600 because of the changes that we Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I come nity, what comes next—biological, ra- enacted into law and which were signed to the floor to offer some remarks on diological, or nuclear weapons? That is by the President. All across the State,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.011 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2199 our constituents are seeing signs that not unfairly targeted with unjustified standing rule XXII, if applicable, at 1 the law is positive and has wide-reach- levels of scrutiny by the IRS. For ex- p.m. on Wednesday, April 18, the Sen- ing effects. I, like the Presiding Offi- ample, the bill makes it a fireable of- ate resume consideration of the Muniz cer, my colleague from Texas, have fense for an IRS employee to use audit- nomination, with 1 hour of debate re- spoken to many of those families and ing methodologies based in whole or in maining, equally divided between Sen- businesses, both great and small. Some part on the political or ideological ator GILLIBRAND or her designee and of the most recent ones I talked to views of a taxpaying individual or enti- Senator ALEXANDER or his designee, on were in College Station. One of the ty. The bill also allows more small the nomination; further, that following folks I spoke to was a woman by the businesses to petition for attorney’s the use or yielding back of that time, name of Claudia Smith. Claudia owns fees when a court determines that the the Senate vote on the nomination as and operates a small mom-and-pop IRS’s legal actions weren’t substan- under the previous order; finally, that flooring business. She told me that tax tially justified. I hope we can act on the Senate now proceed to legislative reform has impacted her company in this legislation soon. session for a period of morning busi- many important ways. To all of my fellow Texans, happy tax ness, with Senators permitted to speak The first is that, with more money in day. Just remember: Today, it is out for up to 10 minutes each. their pockets, her customers feel more with the old and in with the new. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without optimistic. They are more willing to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- objection, it is so ordered. ator from New York. make purchases that for years before f they had been putting off. Mrs. GILLIBRAND. Mr. President, I The second is that Claudia is using rise to speak in opposition to the nomi- LEGISLATIVE SESSION her tax savings to hire more employees nation of Carlos Muniz to be the gen- eral counsel at the Department of Edu- and buy expensive equipment that pre- MORNING BUSINESS viously the company could not afford. cation. One of the most important re- The third way the changes are help- sponsibilities that the Department of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ing Claudia is that she is able to sleep Education has is to uphold title IX and ate will now proceed to legislative ses- a little more soundly at night. In years fight back against gender discrimina- sion for a period of morning business. past, one thing that kept her up was tion in all its forms. This is an enor- f the rising cost of health insurance. Be- mous responsibility, but it is also an ORDER OF BUSINESS cause of the size of her business, Clau- urgent one. Thousands of men and women have Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, for the dia has never been required to provide information of our colleagues, I know it, but since she considers her cowork- survived sexual assaults on college campuses, and they are demanding the leader plans to make a motion to ers to be family, health insurance is proceed to S.J. Res. 57, the auto lend- something she felt obligated to offer. that the Education Department and their universities take these crimes se- ing CRA, at 2:15 p.m., and we will have When she did her annual budgeting riously. But over the last year, we have a rollcall vote on that motion. each year, health insurance was often heard over and over again that Sec- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- on the chopping block—something she retary DeVos has let down these sur- ator from Indiana. just couldn’t afford. Up until the very vivors. Instead of working to uphold Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I ask last minute, Claudia was never quite and even strengthen title IX, she has unanimous consent to be able to com- sure whether she would be able to keep used her position to weaken title IX. plete my remarks. offering it. Now, thanks to the Tax We should not be arming her with more The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Cuts and Jobs Act, she feels more con- staff who are determined to carry out objection, it is so ordered. fident in her ability to provide not only that plan, but that is what Mr. Muniz f health insurance for the foreseeable fu- will do if he is confirmed. TAX REFORM ture but other new employee benefits Mr. Muniz’s nomination sends a cyn- as well. ical message to survivors of campus Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I rise Claudia’s is a great story—not be- sexual assault all over our country— today on tax day to recognize this as cause it is unique but because it is typ- that the Education Department is not the very last time Americans will have ical of the sort of response I have heard taking survivors seriously and that to file their taxes under the com- across my State when it comes to the they are not interested in protecting a plicated, burdensome, outdated system benefits of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. law that is supposed to keep our stu- of the past. Today, we officially kick Although I am very glad that last dents safe. off a new tax code—one that is simpler, fall we were able to pass the first major If this nominee is confirmed, I have fairer, and allows hard-working Ameri- overhaul of the Tax Code in more than no doubt that he is going to accelerate cans to keep more of their hard-earned 30 years, now is not the time to let up. Secretary DeVos’s attack on title IX. money. We can’t stop fighting for taxpayers This is an insult to the thousands of Since we passed the Tax Cuts and like Claudia. In fact, today I am re- students who have suffered through Jobs Act last December, success stories introducing the Small Business Tax- sexual assaults on their college cam- have poured into my office from Indi- payer Bill of Rights Act, legislation puses. Mr. Muniz has spent his career ana businesses that are paying their that reduces redtape for taxpayers and on the wrong side of this issue, and he workers more and from constituents allows small businesses to spend more has made it clear through his actions who are earning more. Tax reform has time growing and creating jobs and less that he does not respect the important provided needed relief across Indiana time dealing with burdensome IRS pro- role title IX actually plays in pro- and across the entire country. cedures and improper targeting prac- tecting our students and keeping our To date, we have found scores of com- tices. I am proud to have my colleague, campuses safe. panies in my home State of Indiana the senior Senator from Nevada, as my The general counsel of the Education that have invested in their employees, original cosponsor. In some ways, it is Department should work to uphold and invested in capital improvements, or a complement to the Tax Cuts and Jobs strengthen our anti-discrimination lowered energy rates for consumers. Act. laws, but I fear this nominee is going They range in size from large compa- This year, research has shown, tax- to do the exact opposite. I urge all of nies, such as Walmart and AT&T, to payers will spend more than 8 billion my colleagues to do what is best for smaller Indiana businesses, such as hours completing IRS forms, costing our students and join me in opposing Family Express, which has 70 conven- almost $200 billion in cumulative mon- this nomination. ience stores across the State and is etized costs. That is a 14-percent in- I yield the floor. building 10 more and increasing its crease from 2017. This legislation will The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- starting wage. ‘‘We feel obligated to hopefully improve that situation. It jority whip. pass on a significant portion of the tax will notably lower the compliance bur- ORDER OF PROCEDURE savings to our staff,’’ said Family Ex- den, strengthen taxpayer protections, Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask press president and CEO Gus and ensure that small businesses are unanimous consent that notwith- Olympidis.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:34 Apr 17, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.012 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2200 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 My guest to this year’s State of the The senior assistant legislative clerk of title 5, United States Code, of the rule Union Address was another beneficiary read as follows: submitted by Bureau of Consumer Financial of this historic tax overhaul. Chelsee Motion to proceed to Calendar No. 378, S.J. Protection relating to ‘‘Indirect Auto Lend- Hatfield is a young mother of three Res. 57, a joint resolution providing for con- ing and Compliance with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act.’’ children and a teller at a rural branch gressional disapproval under chapter 8 of of First Farmers Bank & Trust in Tip- title 5, United States Code, of the rule sub- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ton, IN. Chelsee received a raise and a mitted by Bureau of Consumer Financial ator from Idaho. Protection relating to ‘‘Indirect Auto Lend- Mr. CRAPO. Mr. President, I rise bonus as a result of this tax reform ef- ing and Compliance with the Equal Credit today to offer my support for Senator fort. This additional income will help Opportunity Act.’’ MORAN and Senator TOOMEY’s resolu- Chelsee go back to school to earn her Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask for the yeas tion using the Congressional Review associate’s degree. It will enable her to and nays. Act to disapprove of the CFPB’s 2013 put money away for her children’s fu- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a auto finance guidance. ture college education. Chelsee rep- sufficient second? It is important that Congress dis- resents so many Americans who work There appears to be a sufficient sec- approve this guidance because it was in small towns and who live in our ond. an attempt by the CFPB to make sub- rural communities and are going to get The question is on agreeing to the stantive policy changes through guid- a fair shot because of the benefits from motion. ance rather than through the rule- tax reform. The clerk will call the roll. making process governed by the Ad- The tax reform success stories don’t The senior assistant legislative clerk ministrative Procedure Act. It was also stop there. NIPSCO, or the Northern called the roll. an attempt to regulate auto dealers Indiana Public Service Company, is an Mr. CORNYN. The following Senators who were explicitly exempted from the electric utility company in are necessarily absent: the Senator CFPB’s supervision and regulation Merrillville, IN. It is passing on $26 from Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN) and the Senator from North Carolina (Mr. under the Dodd-Frank Act. million in new savings to its cus- According to an internal CFPB tomers. Andy Mark, a mechanical and TILLIS). Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the memo, the CFPB rejected developing a electrical parts supplier in Kokomo, is rule using its statutory authority to hiring more employees. Muncie Avia- Senator from Illinois (Ms. DUCKWORTH) is necessarily absent. regulate unfair, deceptive, and abusive tion Company is providing tax reform acts and practices because ‘‘the poten- bonuses for all of its employees. One The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. PORTMAN). Are there any other Sen- tially unfair, deceptive, or abusive ac- Hoosier, who lives in Cedar Lake, IN, is tions are ostensibly those of dealers, growing his third-generation milk- ators in the Chamber desiring to vote? The result was announced—yeas 50, over whom we have no regulatory au- hauling business, and another, who thority.’’ lives in Southern Indiana and works nays 47, as follows: [Rollcall Vote No. 75 Leg.] As the Wall Street Journal editorial for U-Haul in Louisville, used his $500 board noted, ‘‘That didn’t stop former YEAS—50 tax bonus to pay a bill. These bonuses CFPB chief Richard Cordray, who used and raises are allowing more Hoosiers Alexander Flake Murkowski the back door of auto-financing to reg- to save for a rainy day, to put more Barrasso Gardner Paul Blunt Graham Perdue ulate dealers.’’ money away towards their child’s edu- Boozman Grassley Portman Make no mistake—the CFPB’s deci- cation, to make repairs to their home, Burr Hatch Risch sion to develop guidance instead of a and to keep food on the table. Capito Heller Roberts rule was intentional. At Senator Cassidy Hoeven Rounds It is worth noting that when we were TOOMEY’s request, the Government Ac- Collins Hyde-Smith Rubio debating tax reform, I listened care- Corker Inhofe Sasse countability Office evaluated the bul- Cornyn Isakson fully to feedback from my constituents Scott letin to see if it should have been sub- Cotton Johnson across Indiana. I spent a lot of time Shelby Crapo Kennedy mitted to Congress as required by the traveling the State, holding Cruz Lankford Sullivan Congressional Review Act. roundtables, visiting businesses, and Daines Lee Thune The GAO concluded: talking to folks on the street. I am Enzi Manchin Toomey Ernst McConnell Wicker The Bulletin is a general statement of pol- glad to say that Hoosier voices were Fischer Moran Young icy designed to assist indirect auto lenders heard, and they are receiving the tax to ensure that they are operating in compli- relief they asked for. I look forward to NAYS—47 ance with ECOA and Regulation B, as ap- continue hearing Hoosiers’ tax reform Baldwin Hassan Peters plied to dealer markup and compensation Bennet Heinrich stories, and, like the rest of America, I Reed practices. As such, it is a rule subject to the Blumenthal Heitkamp Sanders requirements of the CRA. look forward to this being the last day Booker Hirono Schatz of the old, outdated tax system. Brown Jones Schumer Plainly, the CFPB failed to follow Mr. President, I yield the floor. Cantwell Kaine Shaheen the law by failing to submit the bul- Cardin King Smith letin to Congress. Furthermore, issuing f Carper Klobuchar Stabenow Casey Leahy guidance instead of formulating a rule Tester RECESS Coons Markey allowed the CFPB to sidestep impor- Udall Cortez Masto McCaskill The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under Van Hollen tant aspects of the administrative rule- Donnelly Menendez the previous order, the Senate stands Durbin Merkley Warner making process that provide for ac- in recess until 2:15 p.m. Feinstein Murphy Warren countability, transparency, and thor- Thereupon, the Senate, at 12:30 p.m, Gillibrand Murray Whitehouse ough evaluation. Wyden recessed until 2:15 p.m. and reassem- Harris Nelson Federal agency rules are governed by bled when called to order by the Pre- NOT VOTING—3 the Administrative Procedure Act, siding Officer (Mr. BLUNT). Duckworth McCain Tillis which generally requires an agency to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- The motion was agreed to. publish a notice of a rulemaking, take comments from the public, and estab- jority leader. f f lish an effective date for a rule. Notice PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL and comment is a vital step in the PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL DISAPPROVAL OF A RULE SUB- process because it gives individuals and DISAPPROVAL OF A RULE SUB- MITTED BY BUREAU OF CON- businesses subject to rulemakings the MITTED BY BUREAU OF CON- SUMER FINANCIAL PROTECTION opportunity to provide feedback on the SUMER FINANCIAL PROTEC- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The practical effect of a rule’s implementa- TION—MOTION TO PROCEED clerk will report the joint resolution. tion, and it allows an agency to adjust Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I The senior assistant legislative clerk the rule as necessary to avoid any move to proceed to S.J. Res. 57. read as follows: undue consumer harm. In contrast, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The A joint resolution (S.J. Res. 57) providing bulletins generally do not afford the clerk will report the motion. for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 public an opportunity to lend their

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.013 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2201 voice to the process and have histori- ZIP Code in order to determine a prob- ices Association, the Recreational Ve- cally been used by Federal agencies to ability for race and ethnicity. This ap- hicle Industry Association, and the Mo- simply restate existing law to aid cov- proach is less reliable than other, more torcycle Industry Council, all express- ered companies’ compliance. proven methodologies. A November ing their strong support for S.J. Res. The CFPB’s indirect auto bulletin 2014 study estimated that only 24 per- 57. represents a departure from typical cent of African Americans and 50 per- There being no objection, the mate- Federal agency practice, as reflected in cent of Asians were correctly identified rial was ordered to be printed in the the GAO’s conclusion that it is a rule using this methodology. RECORD, as follows: subject to CRA requirements. In light of such significant concerns, AMERICAN FINANCIAL Without the opportunity for public the House introduced legislation in 2015 SERVICES ASSOCIATION, comment and the ability for the bul- to nullify the effect of the bulletin and Washington, DC, April 13, 2018. letin to be revised to avoid any unin- place guardrails around the develop- DEAR SENATOR: The American Financial tended consequences, auto dealers’ in- ment of any future indirect auto lend- Services Association (AFSA) writes to ex- centive to act as an intermediary has ing guidance. That bill garnered sig- press our strong support for S.J. Res. 57, been greatly diminished. As a result, which would rescind the Consumer Financial nificant bipartisan support, passing the Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) 2013 vehicle fi- consumers will be inconvenienced and House by a vote of 332 to 96, including nance guidance. The guidance is harmful to have fewer and more expensive financ- 88 Democrats. American consumers and businesses, and the ing options when shopping for a vehi- This resolution has attracted sub- CFPB acted without accountability in its cle. stantial support, as well, including issuance of the guidance. Some people opposed to this resolu- from 12 different organizations in- The guidance is harmful because it pres- tion are concerned about what this volved with helping consumers buy a sures vehicle finance companies to limit con- means for regulatory guidance more vehicle and an endorsement via a sumers’ ability to receive discounted auto generally. I would note that almost all Statement of Administration Policy loans from dealers. Furthermore, the guid- ance threatens to raise credit costs and push guidance issued by agencies may qual- from the White House. marginally creditworthy consumers out of ify as a rule under the Congressional For example, the chamber of com- the vehicle financing market, and has the Review Act and must be submitted to merce notes that ‘‘internal documents potential to harm the vehicle industry and Congress for potential disapproval. The [at the CFPB] demonstrate that even its associated U.S. jobs. CRA’s definition of a rule includes, [CFPB] Bureau staff found the data and The Bureau issued the guidance without with some limited exceptions, ‘‘the methodology intended to support the any public comment, consultation with whole or a part of an agency statement rule ‘unconvincing.’’’ CFPB’s sister agencies, or transparency. The of general or particular applicability The Independent Community Bank- CFPB issued the policy, which directed fun- damental market changes, without a trans- and future effect designed to imple- ers of America notes that ‘‘since the parent rulemaking process to assess the im- ment, interpret, or prescribe law or issuance of the Bulletin, many commu- pact on consumers. policy.’’ nity bankers have reported added dif- In the 114th Congress, the House over- Explaining the Congressional Review ficulty in meeting the varying bor- whelming approved H.R. 1737, the ‘‘Reform- Act’s definition of a rule, the GAO said: rowing needs of their customers based ing CFPB Indirect Auto Financing Guidance ‘‘This definition is broad, and includes on confusing and overly-burdensome Act,’’ a bill rejecting the vehicle finance both rules requiring notice and com- guidance.’’ guidance similar to S.J. Res 57. The legisla- ment rulemaking and those that do The National Association of Auto tion passed the House by a bipartisan vote of Dealers notes that ‘‘extensive bipar- 332–96, including 88 Democrats. not, such as general statements of pol- S.J. Res. 57 is a narrow resolution that pre- icy.’’ tisan congressional engagement has serves fair lending protections. It does not This particular bulletin, according to identified several reasons to disapprove hinder enforcement of fair lending laws or GAO, ‘‘advises the public prospectively the CFPB rule/guidance, including a regulations, which AFSA and its members of the manner in which the CFPB pro- lack of due process, concerns about the strongly support. In fact, even the House Fi- poses to exercise its discretionary en- CFPB’s failure to adhere to Section nancial Services Committee minority report forcement power and fits squarely 1029 of Dodd-Frank, and the negative accompanying H.R. 1737 stated that, ‘‘H.R. within the Supreme Court’s definition impact on consumers and small busi- 1737 does not alter regulated entities’ obliga- of a statement of policy.’’ ness dealers.’’ tions under the Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) or the CFPB’s examination or Congress has the power to overturn The American Bankers Association enforcement activity pursuant to ECOA.’’ any agency rule. Under the Congres- said that ‘‘the regulatory and enforce- Proponents of S.J. Res. 57 take fair credit sional Review Act, Congress has the ment uncertainty caused by this Guid- laws very seriously, and the resolution pro- power to overturn agency rules using ance has caused many banks to exit or tects these laws and their enforcement to an expedited procedure. There is noth- to curtail their indirect auto lending, safeguard equal opportunity in vehicle fi- ing special about guidance issued by which limits consumer choice and in- nancing. the agencies that should cause people creases the cost of credit.’’ Please lend your support S.J. Res. 57, both to be concerned, especially a rule The American Financial Services As- as a cosponsor and an affirmative vote on sociation said that ‘‘the guidance is the Senate floor. If you need more informa- masquerading as guidance. Article I tion, please contact me. grants Congress legislative power, and harmful because it pressures vehicle fi- Sincerely, by disapproving this rule, we are ensur- nance companies to limit consumers’ BILL HIMPLER, ing that the CFPB cannot issue a rule ability to receive discounted auto loans Executive Vice President, that is substantially the same as the from dealers. Furthermore, the guid- American Financial Services Association. one it just tried to issue. ance threatens to raise credit costs and There have also been questions raised push marginally creditworthy con- NATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE regarding the flawed methodology the sumers out of the vehicle financing DEALERS ASSOCIATION, CFPB used in its supervisory and en- market, and has the potential to harm Tysons, VA, April 13, 2018. Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, forcement activities based on this bul- the vehicle industry and its associated Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, letin to allege discriminatory auto U.S. jobs.’’ Washington, DC. loan pricing. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- Hon. CHARLES SCHUMER, In November 2015, the House Finan- sent that the five letters I cited be Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, cial Services Committee’s majority printed in the RECORD, as well as a Washington, DC. staff issued a report exploring the joint letter from the National Auto DEAR LEADER MCCONNELL AND LEADER CFPB’s approach to enforcing the Dealers Association, the National RV SCHUMER: On behalf of America’s 16,500 fran- ECOA against indirect auto lenders. Dealers Association, the American chised new car and truck dealers and the 1.1 The report focuses on the controversial International Automobile Dealers, the million people they employ, I am writing in strong support of S.J. Res. 57, a joint resolu- use of disparate impact theory and the Auto Alliance, the National Inde- tion providing for Congressional disapproval CFPB’s use of a flawed statistical pendent Automobile Dealers Associa- of the rule by the Consumer Financial Pro- methodology, which only takes into ac- tion, the National Auto Auction Asso- tection Bureau (CFPB) relating to indirect count an individual’s last name and ciation, the American Financial Serv- auto lending. Despite Congress exempting

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.016 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2202 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 most auto dealers from the CFPB’s jurisdic- to promote a voluntary fair-credit compli- dress purported discrimination. The Bulletin tion under Section 1029 of the Dodd-Frank ance program, based on an effective DOJ established that indirect lenders—firms that Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protec- model that preserves consumer discounts on are never face-to-face with borrowers and tion Act, the CFPB’s rule, issued as ‘‘guid- credit for legitimate business reasons. Unfor- only purchase contracts after-the-fact from ance,’’ operates to reduce market competi- tunately, the CFPB, refusing to work with auto dealers—could be liable for discrimina- tion and take away a consumer’s ability to the Federal regulators that have jurisdiction tion. receive a discounted auto loan in the show- over dealers, failed to adopt the DOJ-based The Chamber abhors discrimination in all room. Access to affordable credit is essential fair credit alternative as an appropriate its forms, including in the financial service to consumers, and the ability of a dealer to method to mitigate fair credit risks in indi- and auto lending sectors. discount credit is often necessary to meet rect auto lending. auto buyers’ needs. Enactment of S.J. Res. 57 is important to However, the Bureau provided little con- S.J. Res. 57 is a narrowly-tailored joint keep auto loans affordable and accessible for crete evidence of problems that the Bulletin resolution that does not amend or change consumers. America’s franchised auto deal- was intended to address. In fact, internal any fair credit law or regulation or impair ers urge a ‘‘Yes’’ vote on S.J. Res. 57 should documents demonstrate that even Bureau their enforcement. The legislation is a meas- it be considered by the Senate. Thank you staff found the data and methodology in- ured response to the CFPB’s attempt to reg- for your consideration. tended to support the rule ‘‘unconvincing.’’ ulate the $1.1 trillion auto financing market, Sincerely, We thank Senator Moran and Senator avoid congressional scrutiny by issuing PETER K. WELCH, Toomey for their leadership to resolve this ‘‘guidance,’’ and impose a new policy with- President and CEO. overreach by the Bureau and for engaging out necessary procedural safeguards. the Government Accountability Office Congress has considered this issue thor- AMERICAN BANKERS ASSOCIATION, (GAO), which determined on December 5, oughly during the past several years through Washington, DC, April 17, 2018. 2017, that the Bulletin is in fact a ‘‘rule’’ for oversight and legislative action. The Senate Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, purposes of the Congressional Review Act. Banking, Housing and Urban Affairs Com- Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, Moreover, we applaud the work of the mittee raised the matter during two CFPB Washington, DC. House Financial Services Committee, which oversight hearings. Moreover, by an over- Hon. CHARLES SCHUMER, released three reports on the topic. whelmingly bipartisan vote of 332–96, includ- Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, ing 88 Democrats, in 2015 the House passed Washington, DC. The Chamber believes the Bureau—like all H.R. 1737, the ‘‘Reforming CFPB Indirect DEAR MAJORITY LEADER MCCONNELL AND other federal agencies—should follow the Ad- Auto Financing Guidance Act,’’ which would MINORITY LEADER SCHUMER: On behalf of the ministrative Procedure Act when issuing have rescinded the CFPB auto finance guid- members of the American Bankers Associa- guidance and promulgating regulations. ance. tion (ABA), I write to express our support for Agency actions should be based on clear leg- The extensive bipartisan congressional en- S. J. Res. 57, a resolution to disapprove islative authority, solid data, and proper gagement has identified several reasons to BCFP Bulletin No. 2013–02, ‘‘Indirect Auto public input. That is why the Chamber disapprove the CFPB rule/guidance, includ- Lending and Compliance with the Equal strongly supports the Portman-Heitkamp ing a lack of due process, concerns about the Credit Opportunity Act’’ (Bulletin). ‘‘Regulatory Accountability Act,’’ which CFPB’s failure to adhere to Section 1029 of According to the statements of the Bureau would modernize the rulemaking and guid- Dodd-Frank, and the negative impact on of Consumer Financial Protection (Bureau) ance processes for the first time since 1946. consumers and small business dealers. In at the time of issue, the Bulletin was to pro- The Chamber urges you to reject the Bu- particular: vide lenders with fair lending compliance reau’s Bulletin and to support S.J. Res. 57. The rule/guidance was issued without any ‘‘guidance’’ in situations when lenders per- Sincerely, mit automobile dealers flexibility to set prior notice, opportunity for public com- JACK HOWARD, ment, or consultation with the federal agen- automobile loan interest rates. In practice, Senior Vice President, cies Congress authorized to regulate dealers. however, the Bulletin was applied as far Congressional and Public Affairs. Indirect auto lenders were pressured by the more than guidance, asserting with regu- rule/guidance to eliminate a consumer’s abil- latory effect, highly controversial legal ity to receive a discount on auto credit by a theories and methodologies to allege that INDEPENDENT COMMUNITY ® dealer, which would have fundamentally al- banks and finance companies that purchase BANKERS OF AMERICAN , tered the entire auto finance market. This motor vehicle installment sales contracts Washington, DC, April 17, 2018. new policy would have limited market com- may be liable under the Equal Credit Oppor- Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, petition, raised credit costs for auto buyers, tunity Act (ECOA) for purported, but Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, and thereby pushed some marginally credit- undemonstrated racial disparities in the in- Washington, DC. worthy borrowers out of the credit market. terest rates that the automobile dealers Hon. CHARLES E. SCHUMER, The CFPB admitted to the Senate that it did charged consumers. Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, not analyze the impact of the rule/guidance ABA strongly believes that every auto- Washington, DC. on consumers. mobile customer deserves to be treated fair- DEAR MAJORITY LEADER MCCONNELL AND Despite Congress’ clear determination in ly, and that there is no room for illegal dis- MINORITY LEADER SCHUMER: On behalf of the Dodd-Frank to place regulatory oversight of crimination of any kind in automobile fi- nearly 5,700 community banks represented auto retailers with the Federal Reserve nancing. However, the Bulletin was issued by ICBA, I write today to urge all members Board, Federal Trade Commission and De- without the opportunity for public comment of the Senate to support S.J. Res. 57, a joint partment of Justice (DOJ), the rule/guidance on its legal underpinnings, critical review of resolution under the Congressional Review assumed the CFPB could unilaterally assert its assumption and bases, and its impact on Act (CRA) introduced by Sen. Jerry Moran jurisdiction over dealer discounts and the consumer access to convenient and afford- (R–Kan.) to overturn the Consumer Finan- manner of dealer compensation for auto able credit. cial Protection Bureau’s (CFPB) 2013 auto fi- credit. The regulatory and enforcement uncer- nance guidance set forth in CFPB Bulletin The rule/guidance was based on a flawed tainty caused by this Guidance has caused 2013–02, titled ‘‘Indirect Auto Lending and method for identifying the background of many banks to exit or curtail their indirect Compliance with the Equal Credit Oppor- consumers that relied solely on a borrower’s auto lending, which limits consumer choice tunity’’ (Bulletin). zip code and last name. A non-partisan study and increases the cost of credit. S.J. Res. 57 follows the U.S. Government of the CFPB’s policy found a 41 percent error ABA urges the Senate to adopt S.J. Res. 57. Accountability Office’s (GAO’s) determina- rate for classifying the background of a sig- Sincerely, tion that the ‘‘guidance’’ outlined in the Bul- nificant group of consumers, and even the JAMES C. BALLENTINE. letin is a ‘‘rule’’ subject to CRA. Sen. Pat CFPB’s own review revealed a 20 percent Toomey (R-Pa.) requested that GAO deter- error rate for the same group. (This non-par- CHAMBER OF COMMERCE mine whether the Bulletin was subject to tisan study was never rebutted by the OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, CRA. Since the issuance of the Bulletin, CFPB.) Washington, DC, April 17, 2018. many community bankers have reported The rule/guidance failed to account for le- TO MEMBERS OF THE UNITED STATES SEN- added difficulty in meeting the varying bor- gitimate business factors that can affect fi- ATE: The U.S. Chamber of Commerce urges nance rates (such as discounting a rate due you to support S.J. Res. 57, a Congressional rowing needs of their customers based on to the presence of a competing offer or to ac- Review Act resolution to undo the Bureau of confusing and overly-burdensome guidance. commodate a consumer’s monthly budget Consumer Financial Protection’s action on For this reason, ICBA supports this effort to constraint) to ensure that borrowers being indirect auto lending. The Chamber will con- overturn this harmful guidance administered compared are similarly situated. sider including votes on, or in relation to, by the CFPB. The auto industry takes fair credit laws S.J. Res. 57 in our How They Voted score- ICBA and America’s community banks very seriously and strongly condemns dis- card. thank you for your consideration. crimination. In furtherance of this commit- In 2013, the Bureau issued a ‘‘Bulletin’’ Sincerely, ment, NADA, joined by the other national that imposed new requirements under the CAMDEN R. FINE, dealer associations, developed and continues Equal Credit Opportunity Act (ECOA) to ad- President & CEO.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:15 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.002 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2203 NADA, AUTO ALLIANCE, AMERICAN seek a resolution on this issue, the CFPB The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without FINANCIAL SERVICES ASSOCIATION, rebuffed extensive industry efforts to work objection, it is so ordered. THE NATIONAL RV DEALERS ASSO- together to fashion a solution that would Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I am CIATION, NATIONAL INDEPENDENT preserve discounted auto loans by dealers here to lend my support to a measure AUTOMOTIVE DEALERS ASSOCIA- within the parameters of the DOJ-based that I have had the honor of working TION, RECREATION VEHICLE INDUS- model. In addition, the CFPB continued to TRY ASSOCIATION, AMERICAN pressure finance sources to limit a dealer’s on with the Senator from Pennsyl- INTERNATIONAL AUTOMOTIVE ability to discount credit based on a deeply vania, Mr. TOOMEY, and I have worked DEALERS, NATIONAL AUTO AUC- flawed method for measuring lender compli- side by side with the chairman of the TION ASSOCIATION, MOTORCYCLE ance with fair lending laws. Banking Committee—of which I am a S.J. Res. 57 is narrow and purely a process INDUSTRY COUNCIL. member—the Senator from Idaho, Mr. April 16, 2018. resolution that preserves fair lending protec- tions and does not hinder enforcement of fair CRAPO. I very much appreciate the DEAR SENATOR: We, the undersigned orga- leadership that both of those individ- nizations which represent businesses that lending laws or regulations. In fact, even the make, sell, finance, auction and service vehi- House Financial Services Committee minor- uals and my other colleagues have pro- cles are writing to express our strong sup- ity report accompanying H.R. 1737 stated vided over a long period of time on this port for S.J. Res. 57, a joint resolution to dis- that ‘‘H.R. 1737 does not alter regulated enti- issue. approve the Consumer Financial Protection ties’ obligations under the Equal Credit Op- Dodd-Frank was passed as a result of Bureau’s (CFPB) 2013 auto finance guidance. portunity Act (ECOA) or the CFPB’s exam- the concerns that many had across the ination or enforcement activity pursuant to The CFPB guidance pressures indirect auto country and here in the Congress re- lenders to limit a consumer’s ability to re- ECOA.’’ Proponents of S.J. Res. 57 take fair credit laws very seriously, and this joint res- garding the financial challenges that ceive a discounted auto loan from a dealer, olution protects these laws and their en- our Nation faced resulting from mort- resulting in less competition, higher financ- forcement to safeguard equal opportunity in ing rates, and loss of credit access for many gages that were sold. It really was a vehicle financing. Wall Street crisis that, in so many vehicle buyers. Senators should disapprove the auto fi- Access to affordable credit, including a ways, became challenging for Main nance guidance that operates to eliminate dealer’s ability to discount credit, is essen- dealer discounts, threatens to raise credit Street, with Main Street having the tial to meet the transportation needs of our costs and push marginally creditworthy con- consequence of having the difficulties customers. Since more than 80 percent of ve- sumers out of the vehicle financing market, presented to them based upon what hicle purchases are financed, adequate retail and harms the vehicle industry and its asso- happened on Wall Street, and in so credit is vital to facilitate vehicle sales. The ciated U.S. jobs. Vehicle sales play an impor- current system benefits consumers as deal- many instances, consumers ended up tant role in the economy, as they constitute paying the price. But as we tried to ers’ access to multiple lending institutions almost 20 percent of all retail spending in frequently allows dealers to help consumers, the U.S. Nationwide the vehicle industry correct the problem when Dodd-Frank including the marginally credit worthy who provides jobs for more than 7 million work- was passed, it got way beyond the cul- often have limited options, secure financing ers and their families. It is in the best inter- prits—those who were culpable for cre- at competitive interest rates. est of consumers, dealers, and vehicle manu- ating the financial crisis in our Na- The CFPB auto lending policy, issued facturers to keep vehicle financing competi- tion—and began to penalize those who through a guidance, directed fundamental tive and affordable. market changes without a transparent rule- had nothing to do with them. Keeping auto financing competitive and af- One of the creatures of the passage of making process to assess the impact on con- fordable is not only warranted, it is essential sumers. This guidance was issued without for the vehicle industry and its customers. Dodd-Frank was the Consumer Finan- any public comment, consultation with That is why similar legislation easily passed cial Protection Bureau, and one of the CFPB’s sister agencies (including those that the House, and why the Senate should pass aspects of the Consumer Financial Pro- Congress authorized to regulate auto deal- S.J. Res. 57. tection Bureau was their effort to regu- ers), or transparency. Indeed, by the CFPB’s Mr. CRAPO. Finally, President late indirect auto lending. own admission, the agency did not study the Trump’s Statement of Administration I think the chairman, the Senator impact of its guidance on consumers. from Idaho, did a great job of explain- This controversial guidance also enabled Policy also endorses this resolution. I the agency to skirt Congress’ express prohi- am going to read a few highlights from ing this resolution. Today, we have the bition on its exercise of authority over auto, the statement. authority to reject the decision that recreational vehicle, and motorcycle retail- This bulletin limits the ability of auto was made by the Consumer Financial ers engaged in indirect lending, (Sec. 1029(a) dealers to offer auto loans to their customers Protect Bureau, and I hope my col- of Dodd-Frank). Under the Dodd-Frank law and was not issued pursuant to notice-and- leagues will join me in doing so. I have dealers continue to be regulated by that Fed- comment rulemaking. As a result, the CFPB introduced this resolution to accom- failed to allow the public to comment before eral Reserve Board, Federal Trade Commis- plish that. sion and Department of Justice, as well as it made significant changes to an important Senator TOOMEY has made clear by rigorous state laws and regulations. sector of the economy. Dodd-Frank explic- The auto industry takes fair credit laws itly excludes the regulation of auto dealers his efforts that this guidance that was extremely seriously and has proactively pro- from the CFPB’s jurisdiction. Disapproving issued by the Consumer Financial Pro- moted a comprehensive compliance program this bulletin, therefore, would provide con- tection Bureau is subject to a CRA, and to enhance fair credit lending. Under the De- sumers with more options for auto financing that is our mission today—to accom- partment of Justice (DOJ) modeled program, while ensuring that the CFPB abides by con- plish the passage of that CRA. a dealer can reduce the consumer’s APR by gressional limits on its jurisdiction. While the chairman was speaking, I documenting one of seven ‘‘legitimate busi- This rule should be disapproved, and jotted down perhaps four or five points ness reasons’’ identified by the DOJ as a le- any future action on the matter should that I would like to make to my col- gitimate reason for a dealer to discount go through the appropriate rulemaking leagues. One is that those who lend credit. Legitimate business reasons include process established by Congress. If this ‘‘meeting or beating’’ a competitive offer money to someone buying an auto- rule stands, banks, credit unions, and mobile had nothing to do with the fi- that is available to the customer from an- finance companies holding nearly $1.1 other dealer or lender. Preserving this vigor- nancial collapse that occurred as a re- ously competitive market for vehicle financ- trillion in outstanding loans will need- sult of the mortgage crisis in 2007 and ing lowers the cost of auto credit for con- lessly face significant liability, and the 2008. sumers across the board. When Congress cre- ability of auto dealers to play a valu- I think Republicans probably made a ated the CFPB, surely it did not intend the able role by matching buyers and lend- mistake—I could take out the political agency to use its power to stop vehicle re- ers will be diminished. word ‘‘probably.’’ Republicans made a tailers from offering consumers discounts. I urge my colleagues to support this mistake in saying ‘‘We are going to re- In a rejection of the auto finance guidance, resolution. last Congress the House overwhelming ap- I yield the floor. peal Dodd-Frank,’’ and Democrats re- proved a bill similar to S.J. Res. 57, H.R. I suggest the absence of a quorum. sponded by saying ‘‘You are never 1737, the ‘‘Reforming CFPB Indirect Auto Fi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The going to touch Dodd-Frank.’’ As a re- nancing Guidance Act.’’ H.R. 1737, which clerk will call the roll. sult, since 2008, we have been unable to would have rescinded the guidance, passed by The senior assistant legislative clerk correct, in a bipartisan way, the prob- a bipartisan vote of 332-96, including 88 lems that many of us saw with Dodd- Democrats (November 18, 2015). proceeded to call the roll. Despite the House’s overwhelmingly bipar- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask Frank. There are those who say ‘‘We tisan approval of the legislation and addi- unanimous consent that the order for are going to get rid of the entire tional bipartisan efforts in the Senate to the quorum call be rescinded. thing,’’ and those who say ‘‘You can’t

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So for those two Protection Bureau created by using an which financing is arranged by some- reasons, we ought to be opposed to the algorithm to determine discrimination, one who sells an automobile in their guidance that was directed to the auto- and at the same time, not do anything business to make the deal work for the mobile dealers and those who lend to change the prohibition, the ille- consumer who wants to buy the auto- money at the direction of those auto- gality of discriminating against a per- mobile. mobile dealers. son based upon that person’s race. I would outline these five points: The third item I would raise is what Also, I think we can easily make the First of all, this ought to be a rel- this guidance is designed to do is to case that this kind of guidance, this ef- atively easy decision because auto- prevent discrimination. What they fort by the Consumer Financial Protec- mobile dealers are specifically ex- claimed they were doing was to make tion Bureau, causes damage to the con- cluded from the provisions of Dodd- certain that interest rates do not differ sumer, who therefore will not get the Frank. So, in my view, the Consumer based upon a person’s race. If that were benefit of an appropriate rate of inter- Financial Protection Bureau had to the desired outcome, I would have no est because of the fear of this guidance, work its magic to try to find a way to qualms. But because you can’t ask a which then, ultimately, results in just regulate the financing of automobiles person’s race, there is no way to know. a standard interest rate for everyone. that were arranged for by the auto- So what the Consumer Financial Pro- Today we have the opportunity to mobile dealer in contravention to the tection Bureau did was to create a correct a problem that was created in law which says that automobile dealers computer program, an algorithm, in contravention of a law that used a are not covered by it. which they guessed what a person’s flawed method to determine whether a I was not in the Senate at the time race was based upon their last name— person was discriminated against and this amendment was offered. It was of- how it sounds—and, secondly, on their to improve the circumstances that con- fered here in the U.S. Senate by my ZIP Code. Never was the Consumer Fi- sumers face at a time in which every predecessor, Senator Brownback, and nancial Protection Bureau able to pro- dime matters, so we should see im- adopted as a provision in Dodd-Frank. vide the evidence that anyone had been provement in the opportunities for peo- It is very specific. discriminated against, only that if you ple to borrow money and to buy an I just read the language of the ex- use a computer program and run a automobile for the benefit of them- emption, the exclusion, before I came bunch of numbers through it, the algo- selves and their families. on the Senate floor. Again, it says that rithm, based upon what a person’s I hope that my colleagues will join automobile dealers are excluded from name sounds like—which I guess, in my me, as they did on the motion to pro- the provisions of Dodd-Frank. Yet the mind, is discrimination in and of ceed, and that this CRA will be adopted Consumer Financial Protection Bureau itself—and, secondly, the ZIP Code— over the next day or so. found a way to get around direct law perhaps the same thing could be said I yield the floor. and, in that sense, the intent of the about that—determine what race a per- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- U.S. Senate and the House of Rep- son is or was. ator from Ohio. resentatives when they passed Dodd- So the methods by which the Con- Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I rise in Frank. So just on its face, we ought to sumer Financial Protection Bureau de- opposition to the motion. This is my decide that the CRA is worth sup- termined discrimination were flawed. second day in a row being on the oppo- porting because we are really reaffirm- In fact, a bipartisan report indicated site side of my friend Senator MORAN ing the decision that was made when that 41 percent of the determinations and Senator CRAPO, too, for that mat- Dodd-Frank was passed. were inaccurate, so not quite half of ter, but you have to do what you have Second, the process the Consumer Fi- every time the algorithm guessed what to do. nancial Protection Bureau used—they the race of a borrower was, it was Over the last year and a half, as we didn’t draft a rule and go through the wrong. Yet that apparently was suffi- have seen time after time after time, rulemaking process, and they didn’t cient for the CFPB to believe they had Republicans in this Congress have put anything out for comment by the a basis to determine whether someone made it pretty clear to the American industry that would be affected or by was discriminated against. people whose side they are on. They the consumers who may pay more as a I can’t imagine that many Americans have used the Congressional Review result of the passage or the enactment would find it comforting to know that Act—something nobody at home really of this guidance. But they created only a computer program determines knows about and something most of us something that regulatory bodies often what somebody believes their race is, didn’t know anything about until we do and tried to provide—the word is again, based upon a hypothetical and began to see at the White House these ‘‘guidance.’’ What they say they are not upon actual facts. executive retreats every weekend for doing is providing direction, without Again, the method by which the guid- Wall Street executives. They have used passing a rule, to those who might be ance was used to determine discrimina- the Congressional Review Act more affected by the rule, but as a result of tion was significantly flawed and a than any other Congress in history to just using guidance, no input was solic- process in which I can’t believe many give handouts to big corporations at ited, no input therefore could be given, Americans would find comfort. the expense of ordinary Americans. and the Administrative Procedure Act What I would say, finally, is that It is not enough for Republican legis- was avoided. elimination of the guidance—passage lators to go to Senator MCCONNELL’s I remember the Director of the Con- of the CRA today—would not do any- office down the hall and cut deals giv- sumer Financial Protection Bureau thing to change the prohibition against ing tax cuts to the richest people in the was in front of the Banking Committee discrimination. It is not that if the country and giving tax breaks to Gen- when he was asked: How can this be? CRA is adopted that discrimination eral Motors, which promised that if tax His answer was simply: This is guid- now becomes legal; in fact, we all can cuts were given to the largest corpora- ance, and the Administrative Proce- agree that discrimination has no place tions in America, they were going to dure Act doesn’t apply. Yet, as we have in our society or in our economy. But raise wages and hire more people. seen, the GAO has recently concluded the absence of this CFPB guidance does Well, GM just announced—to its ev- that this is the same outcome, the not make discrimination legal. It does erlasting discredit—hundreds of layoffs same result as rulemaking would be not amend or modify the Equal Credit at its Lordstown plant near Youngs- and therefore subject to the CRA. Opportunity Act nor does it change town, OH. Hundreds and hundreds of What that highlights for me is, in regulation B, which allows for enforce- people were laid off, perhaps perma- two instances already, the CFPB ment of that act. nently. We don’t know, but the signs

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.018 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2205 aren’t good. At the same time, General tract employers had protections for ments to make sure that federally Motors in Toledo, because they make their workers regardless of race, re- funded projects pay the local pre- the transmissions for the Chevy Cruze gardless of gender, regardless of sexual vailing wages. in Youngstown, are laying people off. orientation. It ensured that women had Today I went to breakfast with a And then the Ohio Turnpike from To- the right to choose their own number of iron workers and glaziers ledo to Youngstown, this long Ohio healthcare provider regardless of their and laborers and electricians and pipe turnpike—one of the centers of the form of insurance. fitters and others who work with their American auto industry—we will prob- The Congressional Review Act re- hands and make a damn good living, ably see layoffs in the supply chain. peals all of those rules. with good benefits and good retirement Even though they got a huge tax cut, They repealed the rule that would for their families. You know what. written in the office down the hall, in have guaranteed customers the right to They can use this newfound rule that Majority Leader MCCONNELL’s office— a day in court when they were ripped these very smart Republican legisla- they got a huge tax cut and lots of off by a bank like Wells Fargo. Wells tors figured out how to exploit to un- money in their pockets. What do they Fargo has a whole rap sheet of ripping dermine pay and beat back local pre- do? They mostly do corporate off their customers. But we in this vailing wage laws. buybacks and stock buybacks. They body said: Well, you shouldn’t have Republicans have used the Congres- share this money with their biggest done that, Mr. and Mrs. Wells Fargo, sional Review Act to attack access to stockholders. but we are going to let you do that on healthcare and worker and environ- So that is what happened with the individual contracts. mental protections. So it is no stretch. tax cut. Now they are giving another So if you are wronged by Wells Fargo They have done it before. It is no handout to a big corporation at the ex- or any of these other big financial in- stretch that they would do it again, pense of Americans. It is bad enough stitutions, you don’t get a day in court, only now there would be no limits on that we are considering this Congres- sorry. That is what this body did. the types of agency actions they can sional Review Act piece of legislation. It is the same with Equifax. We know target because they found this loophole We are considering a bill that would what Equifax did. Equifax violated the and they can go back 20 years. The one tell Wall Street banks and shady lend- privacy of pretty much half the people we are working on today was handed ers that it is OK to discriminate in North Dakota or Idaho or Ohio or in down—this agency guidance was hand- against borrowers. this whole country, but we said: That ed down in 2013. Somebody who looks like me can go is OK, Equifax; just try not to do it So one of the first things Republicans to a car dealership and get a loan when again; and we let them off the hook. want to do with this—they are just so they decide they are going to buy a Fortunately, too much time has excited with this new loophole—they Chevy Cruze. My wife and I have each passed for Congress to use the Congres- found that they can go after people bought a Chevy Cruze. I am going to go sional Review Act to roll back other who don’t have good lobbyists in Wash- finance a Chevy Cruze, and I get a cer- protections the last administration put ington. They can go after people who tain interest rate. We have seen data in place, but they now want to open up won’t contribute to their campaign. that shows that if somebody looks a a whole new idea. They want to use a They can go after people who, frankly, little different from me—if they are Af- legal loophole to interfere with poten- struggle every day just to make a liv- rican American, Latina, Asian Amer- tially thousands more Federal deci- ing in this country. ican, or Pacific Islanders—they pay a sions, potentially going back as far as What is the first thing they do? They higher interest rate. We know that is 20 years. make car loans—it is clear what hap- what the data says. But this body— In order to clarify how laws work, pens. They make car loans more expen- from the last vote, it is pretty clear— Federal agencies—this is really in the sive for women and for people of color. they say that is all right, that if the weeds, but you know we have some The bill sends a message to lenders dealer wants to charge higher interest pretty smart people here who figure across the country that if you are le- rates to people of color, that is OK. out how to go in the weeds and find So it is bad enough that we are say- gally discriminating, go ahead, we are loopholes and exploit people and, ing today and this body is giving its not going to stop you. frankly, hurt the little guy. Whether We created the Consumer Financial stamp of approval saying that it is OK she works in construction or punches a Protection Bureau to police Wall to discriminate and to charge higher time clock or works as a waitress in a Street banks and other shady lenders interest rates to people of color. I have said this in the Banking Committee be- diner in Garfield Heights, they find who ripped off working families. Under ways to screw the little guy. its last Director, the Bureau returned fore, and Senator CRAPO has heard me So here is how it works. Federal say this many times: The ZIP Code $12 billion to 29 million Americans who agencies issue guidance to help people where my wife and I live in Cleveland, had been ripped off by payday lenders understand how the law protects them OH, had more foreclosures than any and credit card companies and for-prof- ZIP Code in the United States of Amer- and to help businesses understand how it colleges. ica. There are reasons for that. Part of to follow the law. Just last week, some The Consumer Financial Protection the reasons for that is who lives in my of these smart people—my Republican Bureau used to be a cop on the beat to ZIP Code, mostly. colleagues—at a hearing decried the protect consumers. We want a con- But it is not just that which today’s practice of enforcing the law without sumer bureau because we have the legislation would do. It threatens thou- providing guidance in advance. This banks—$1 trillion, $2 trillion; Bank of sands more protections for workers and week, though—this week—some of America, JPMorgan Chase, Wells families that are vulnerable to repeal those same smart Republicans want to Fargo—these banks are trillion-dollar by Congress. start nullifying agency guidance, banks, some of them $2 trillion. So we Republicans have used the Congres- which would completely up-end the have the banks here, and we have a lot sional Review Act to repeal important Federal programs that families depend of consumers who don’t have a union or rules that would have given low-wage on. And this is an anti-business deci- any protection, and they sign these workers access to retirement plans. So sion, too, on their part. The businesses contracts for a loan or something, and here in the Senate, we talk about car- want the predictability, they want the they don’t really know what the fine ing about workers, we talk about the certainty so they can follow the rules. print says. So that is why we have a dignity of work, and we talk about Under this crazy new plan, some of consumer bureau—to protect those helping people save for the future, but these very smart Republicans—and at people. one of the provisions of the Congres- least one of them is on the Banking Twenty-nine million Americans have sional Review Act would have given Committee—under this new plan, they benefited from it just since its creation low-wage workers access to retirement can ban Federal agencies from explain- less than a decade ago, and they have plans, and this legislation takes it ing how States administer Federal saved $12 billion. It used to be a cop on away. health insurance programs, programs the beat. It used to issue reports warn- One of the other rules that were like the Children’s Health Insurance ing consumers about industries that rolled back ensured that Federal con- Program. They can undermine require- weren’t following the law. It brought

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.019 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2206 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 tough enforcement actions. It identi- gerous precedent that would open the door opinion, the so-called ‘‘leveraged lending’’ fied discriminatory lending practices for Congress to stretch the CRA to challenge guidance which ensures that big banks do in auto loans and home mortgages. a wide variety of settled agency actions that not engage in risky lending practices that have been in effect for years or decades, par- threaten the financial system, without any We know discrimination is still a ticularly ‘‘guidance documents’’ that are not need for a CRA vote. major problem for people of color who only crucial to protecting workers, con- Given the long and growing list of legisla- make the biggest investment of their sumers, minorities, the environment, and tive issues that need to be addressed by the lives: their house and their car—their the economy but also to providing regu- Senate on an urgent and expedited basis, it house and their car, their two biggest latory certainty for businesses and the pub- is difficult to fathom why the Senate would investments, and you can legally dis- lic. Using the CRA, rather than regular legis- choose to spend valuable floor time to repeal lative order, to attack years-old established guidance under the CRA when such guidance criminate in this country because of could be effectively revisited, and if appro- the way somebody looks. You can dis- guidance would be an extraordinary and egregious abuse of normal process—exactly priate, repealed by the agency that issued it criminate against them because of the kind of rigged action on behalf of narrow in short order and with limited procedural race, and now we are saying it is OK. corporate insiders that so infuriates Ameri- requirements. By bringing this vote to the Look at what has happened in this cans of all political stripes. Senate floor, it sends a message to the public country because they said that. Just a This Congress has already used the CRA in that Congress is more interested in giving few months ago, the Center for Inves- unprecedented fashion to repeal fourteen narrow handouts to special interests rather than addressing the real issues that impact tigative Reporting released a report common-sense, carefully developed regula- tions that protect the public, including hard-working Americans and their families. showing that redlining is still a prob- measures to protect internet privacy, wom- We, the under-signed groups, strongly urge lem in big American cities to this day. en’s health, retirement security, workplace Senators to reject abusing the CRA to at- The National Fair Housing Alliance safety, fair pay in the workplace, the envi- tack guidance documents that were issued conducted tests and demonstrated that ronment and clean water, anti-corruption years ago, and get back to solving real prob- people of color were systematically of- safeguards, and sensible gun control. Unlike lems on behalf of the American public. We fered worse loan terms for cars than the normal legislative process, the CRA is al- strongly urge you to reject S.J. Resolution ready problematic legislation which gives 57. White borrowers with the exact same Alaska Wilderness League, American Asso- credit seeking to purchase the exact Congress the ability to strike down regula- tions that protect the public on behalf of ciation for Justice, American Bird Conser- vancy, American Federation of Teachers, same vehicle. But instead of working narrow special interests without any con- American Sustainable Business Council, to root out this discrimination—you gressional hearings and virtually no floor de- Americans for Financial Reform, Center for would think that is what we would all bate. The appropriate response would be for American Progress Action Fund, Center for do, Republicans and Democrats alike. Congress to revisit this flawed process rather Biological Diversity, Center for Progressive than expand it to undermine policies that Instead, we are making it easier for Reform, Center for Responsible Lending, were finalized long ago. banks to turn customers away or to Citizens’ Environmental Coalition, Clean take advantage of them based on the Applying the CRA to settled agency ac- tions from the past would violate the clear Water Action, Coalition on Human Needs, Communications Workers of America (CWA), color of their skin. This is 2018, for intent and spirit of the law. The legislative Conservation Lands Foundation, Consumer gosh sakes. Why would we still be history of the CRA makes plain its purpose: Action, Consumer Federation of America, doing that? ‘‘this legislation establishes a government Consumers for Auto Reliability and Safety, This repeal could permanently weak- wide congressional review mechanism for Defenders of Wildlife, Earthjustice. en Federal anti-discrimination laws. most new rules.’’ As a procedural matter, EarthRights International, Endangered These laws have been the law of the Congress could have, and more appropriately Species Coalition, Environmental Working land for decades. These are the laws should have, reviewed the guidance at issue Group, Family Equality Council, Food & that brave Americans fought for during here back in 2013 when it was issued by the Water Watch, Institute for Agriculture and CFPB, requested a GAO opinion at that time the civil rights movement. Do you re- Trade Policy, Interfaith Center on Corporate to determine its eligibility under the CRA Responsibility, International Corporate Ac- member when Congress passed the fair and potentially used the CRA to challenge housing bill? The fair housing bill was countability Roundtable, League of Con- such guidance shortly after its issuance in servation Voters, NAACP, National Associa- passed a week after Dr. King’s assas- 2013. Indeed, Congress has made multiple tion of Consumer Advocates, National Asso- sination, 50 years ago last week. You GAO requests regarding the applicability of ciation of Social Workers, National Audubon would think we would want to the CRA to guidance documents when the Society, National Black Justice Coalition, strengthen it, not weaken it. guidance was originally issued or shortly National Center for Lesbian Rights, National I ask unanimous consent to have thereafter. Subjecting these actions to the Center for Transgender Equality, National CRA now would fly in the face of congres- Consumer Law Center (on behalf of its low printed in the RECORD letters from the sional intent and stretch the law in ways scores of civil rights and consumer and income clients), National Employment Law that were neither anticipated nor expected Project, National Law Center on Homeless- environmental and other organizations by those who voted for it. ness & Poverty, National LGBTQ Task Force that vehemently oppose this legisla- Moreover, it raises suspicions that this Action Fund. tion. CRA challenge is being undertaken now, National Organization for Women, Na- There being no objection, the mate- rather than following the issuance of the tional Women’s Law Center, Natural Re- rial was ordered to be printed in the guidance in 2013, because there is a higher sources Defense Council, Network for Envi- chance of success given the makeup of this RECORD, as follows: ronmental & Economic Responsibility of Congress. United Church of Christ, Northcoast Envi- APRIL 16, 2018. Moreover, applying the CRA to long-estab- ronmental Center, Progressive Congress Ac- The undersigned organizations are strong- lished guidance would be, simply put, wrong- tion Fund, Public Citizen, Publish What You ly united in opposition to S.J. Resolution 57, headed. Guidance documents are often spe- Pay—US, Safe Alternatives for our Forest sponsored by Sen. Moran (R–KS), which at- cifically requested by regulated entities and Environment, Soda Mountain Wilderness tempts to use the Congressional Review Act industry stakeholders in order to resolve un- Council, South Umpqua Rural Community (CRA) to target regulatory actions by federal certainties in the application of regulations Partnership, Tennessee Citizen Action, agencies that were issued well in the past to stakeholder business practices, including Texas Appleseed, The Center for Auto Safe- and have been in effect for years or poten- in the form of so-called ‘‘No Action Letters’’. ty, The Lands Council, The Wilderness Soci- tially even decades. We vigorously oppose Using the CRA to repeal guidance documents ety, U.S. PIRG, Umpqua Watersheds, Inc., any attempt by the Senate to subject the would imperil numerous past guidance docu- Union of Concerned Scientists, United Steel- ‘‘Bulletin on Indirect Auto Lending and ments that were not submitted to Congress workers, Western Environmental Law Cen- Compliance with the Equal Credit Oppor- under the CRA, including many that were ter, WildEarth Guardians, Woodstock Insti- tunity Act’’—issued by the Consumer Finan- specifically requested by regulated entities tute, and Young Invincibles. cial Protection Bureau (CFPB) in 2013—to a or stakeholders. Congress should act with vote under the CRA. Many of us oppose re- caution, if at all, in using the CRA on guid- APRIL 16, 2018. pealing this important guidance on sub- ance documents, but applying the CRA to Majority Leader MCCONNELL, stantive grounds, but we join together today longstanding guidance would be misguided. Russell Senate Office Building, to focus instead on the procedural issue of Long-established guidance is not locked Washington, DC. using the CRA against a guidance that has into place; when appropriate, it is a rel- Minority Leader SCHUMER, been in place for years. atively simple matter for agencies to revise Hart Senate Office Building, We oppose such a vote, as it would con- or repeal longstanding guidance. In fact, Washington, DC. travene the clear intent of the CRA to allow agencies have already begun the process of DEAR MAJORITY LEADER MCCONNELL AND Congress to review and challenge recently fi- revising or repealing another guidance docu- MINORITY LEADER SCHUMER: We, the under- nalized agency actions. This would set a dan- ment that was the subject of a recent GAO signed civil rights and consumer advocacy

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.021 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2207 organizations, ask you to oppose S.J. Res. 57, white testers to visit auto dealerships and with fewer consumer protections and the Congressional Review Act (CRA), intro- shop for the same car within 24 hours of each with fewer environmental protections. duced by Senator Jerry Moran (R–KS), in- other. The study found that, more often than Think of the progress we have made tended to undo the Consumer Financial Pro- not, the better qualified non-white applicant in this country because of consumer tection Bureau’s (CFPB or Consumer Bu- was offered higher cost pricing options than reau) Indirect Auto Lending Guidance, pub- the less qualified white applicant, resulting protection, because of strong safe lished over five years ago. This resolution is in those non-white borrowers paying on aver- drinking water laws, and because of the latest in a series of attempts to chill fed- age $2,662 more than the white borrowers strong clean air laws. I live 10 miles eral efforts to end widespread unlawful dis- over the life of the loan. Additionally, NFHA from Lake Erie. I know about the crimination. Discrimination in the auto found that 75% of the time, white testers progress, in part because we passed lending market is well-documented and re- were offered more financing options than strong laws for environmental protec- sults in people of color paying more for years non-white testers. These statistics further tion. I know what we have done to to finance a car purchase. This CRA would prove the need for continued vigilant en- clean up Lake Erie. also set the dangerous precedent of undoing forcement against violations of ECOA, as long-standing federal agency guidance—an well as clear expectations for industry like The Great Lakes are 20 percent of all expansion of the use of the Congressional Re- the 2013 guidance provides. the ground and surface freshwater in view Act, and certainly beyond its original Auto loans are the third most prevalent the world. I look at what we have done purpose of narrowly reviewing regulations form of debt among U.S. residents after as a society. Do we want to go back on soon after they were enacted. home and student loans. Discrimination in this as the President cuts funding to The Consumer Bureau’s 2013 indirect auto auto lending contributes to credit access dis- clean up the Great Lakes? The EPA lending guidance put auto lenders on clear parities and to the racial and ethnic wealth issues guidelines today to ensure that notice that the Equal Credit Opportunity gap. This CRA would send the wrong mes- Act (ECOA) makes them liable for discrimi- sage to the auto industry and to the Amer- corporate polluters aren’t putting com- natory pricing on auto loans they acquire ican people. munities in danger by contaminating from auto dealers. ECOA makes it illegal for In addition, CRA has never been used to the air they breathe or the water they a creditor to discriminate in any aspect of a undo longstanding guidance, and it was not drink. States rely on Federal guid- credit transaction on the basis of race or intended to be used this way. Permitting ance—the key word—so they can work other protected bases; indirect auto lenders CRAs to undo longstanding guidance opens with the Federal Government to pro- are creditors under ECOA. the door to regulatory uncertainty across vide healthcare to families and chil- Discrimination in auto lending has long the federal regulatory environment and been widespread, and a significant culprit is across a range of U.S. markets as a result. dren. Workers rely on guidance from the discretionary dealer mark-up. Three- We urge you to oppose S.J. Res. 57 and the Department of Labor to make sure fourths of all consumers use a loan to pur- keep the federal government’s commitment they are getting fair pay in a safe chase a car, and 80% of auto loans are fi- to rooting out racial discrimination clear. workplace. But under the legislation nanced through the auto dealer. The auto Thank you for your consideration. If you before us today, those protections dealer may provide that financing directly have any questions please do not hesitate to could be stripped away in the future, or it may facilitate indirect financing by an contact Cheye-Ann Corona, Senior Policy one by one by one. Associate with the Center for Responsible indirect third-party lender. In indirect auto Every time somebody here wants to financing, the dealer usually collects basic Lending, information regarding the applicant and uses Sincerely, do a favor for their favorite special in- an automated system to forward that infor- Allied Progress, American Federation of terest group, they can go down to Sen- mation to several prospective indirect auto State, County, and Municipal Employees, ator MCCONNELL’s office, probably pick lenders. The indirect auto lender establishes Americans for Financial Reform, Arkansans up a ticket—because there is probably a ‘‘buy rate’’ for the customer. The dealer Against Abusive Payday Lenders, California going to be a line, with all the lobby- can then add as much as 2–2.5% to the buy Reinvestment Coalition, Center for Respon- ists going in and out—they will pick up rate and keep some or all of the difference. sible Lending, Color of Change, Consumer a ticket to say, which special interest Federation of America, Consumers Union, These mark-ups have been found to add over group can I do a favor for today, and $25 billion to the total loan cost of auto Impact Fund, Lawyers’ Committee for Civil loans made over the course of one year. Rights Under Law, NAACP, NAACP Legal they will find another one. The discriminatory impact of this discre- Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. For the millions who lost their jobs, tionary practice has been researched and NACA—Ohio State Chair, National Asso- for the millions who lost their homes documented, time and again. In the mid– ciation for Equal Opportunity in Higher Edu- in the financial crisis a decade ago, for 1990s, a series of lawsuits were filed against cation (NAFEO), National Association of So- the millions who are struggling to the largest auto finance companies based on cial Workers, National Community Reinvest- build their retirement with wages that ment Coalition, National Consumer Law data showing that that borrowers of color haven’t been growing for more than 20 were twice as likely to have their loans Center (on behalf of its low income clients), marked up and paid markups twice as large National Urban League, Public Citizen, Pub- years, it is already hard enough to get as similarly situated white borrowers with lic Good Law Center, Public Justice Center, ahead. We should be making it easier similar credit ratings. The CFPB’s own in- Texas Appleseed, The Leadership Conference for them, not harder. vestigations found that borrowers who iden- on Civil and Human Rights, U.S. PIRG, I ask for a ‘‘no’’ vote. tified as African American, Latino, and UnidosUS, and United Church of Christ. Mr. President, I suggest the absence Asian/Pacific Islander paid between 20 and 36 Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, Ameri- of a quorum. basis points more for their loans than simi- cans for Financial Reform called this The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. larly situated white borrowers, adding be- resolution ‘‘a deeply troubling piece of HOEVEN). The clerk will call the roll. tween $150 and $300 in additional interest legislation that will leave millions of The assistant bill clerk proceeded to over the life of those consumers’ loans. call the roll. We have seen the evidence that enforce- people of color at the mercy of auto- ment against auto lending discrimination dealers and lenders with a long history Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, I ask has resulted in real benefits to wronged bor- of racial discrimination.’’ unanimous consent that the order for rowers of color. As a result of its investiga- I know a lot of auto dealers, and I am the quorum call be rescinded. tions, the Consumer Bureau, jointly with the sure my friend from Idaho, Senator The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Department of Justice, took enforcement ac- CRAPO, does as well. We all do. Most of objection, it is so ordered. tion against Ally Financial, Honda, Fifth them don’t do this, but some of them TAX REFORM Third Bank, and Toyota, which resulted in do, and why are we allowing the some Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, today is restitution to wronged borrowers of over $140 million. These lenders also agreed to adjust of them who do to continue to do this? tax day, not typically a day of celebra- their pricing models by limiting the amount If Republicans are willing to use this tion for anyone, with maybe the excep- of their dealer mark-ups—real evidence of loophole that a few very smart Repub- tion of the IRS. But this year there is— progress in the fight against a discrimina- licans uncovered—this loophole that believe it or not—something to cele- tory lending practice. Of note, the 2013 guid- they went down in the weeds and fig- brate because tax day 2018 marks the ance also explains that lenders can address ured out how to exploit—if they are end of the old tax system. fair lending risk by paying compensation to willing to use this loophole to attack Next year, Americans will be filling dealers in ways other than allowing them to our basic right to equality, there may out their taxes under the new tax sys- mark up the interest rate. Discrimination in auto lending continues be no end to the other consumer pro- tem that was created by the Tax Cuts to be a very real problem. In early 2018, a tections they can repeal. Big corpora- and Jobs Act. That means that they study conducted by the National Fair Hous- tions could be free to take advantage of will be paying less in taxes and keeping ing Alliance (NFHA) paired white and non- customers with little to rein them in, more of their hard-earned money.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:13 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.012 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2208 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 If anything became clear during the economy that would give Americans The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- last election cycle, it was that the access to economic security and pros- ator from Pennsylvania. economy was not working well for perity for the long term. We knew that Mr. TOOMEY. Mr. President, I rise American families. In CNN exit poll- the only way to give Americans access this afternoon to address the CRA we ing, 62 percent of voters rated the econ- to real long-term economic security voted to proceed to and on which we omy as poor, and that wasn’t sur- was to ensure that they had access to will vote for final passage tomorrow. It prising. The Obama administration was good jobs, good wages, and real oppor- is a Congressional Review Act resolu- tough for American workers. Job cre- tunities. We knew that the only way to tion that will allow us to repeal an ill- ation was sluggish, wages were stag- guarantee access to good jobs, wages, conceived CFPB regulation. nant, and economic growth lagged far and opportunities was to make sure Let me start with just a word about behind the pace of other recoveries. Op- that businesses had the ability to cre- the CFPB because this is an agency portunities for workers were few and ate and maintain them. that is fundamentally flawed in its de- far between. It is no wonder that so But before the Tax Cuts and Jobs sign and has been so since day one. many hard-working Americans felt Act, our Tax Code wasn’t helping busi- First, there is a single individual di- like they had been left behind. nesses to create jobs or to increase op- rector. There is no bipartisan commis- Republicans were listening, and one portunities for workers. In fact, it was sion. There is no board. There is no of our top priorities in this Congress doing the opposite, and that had real need for consensus. There is one-man has been improving the economic out- consequences for American workers. rule. look for the American people, which is A small business owner struggling to Secondly, this one individual can why last fall we took up tax reform. afford the hefty annual tax bill for her only be removed for cause. He is part of The Tax Code may not be the first business was highly unlikely to be able the executive branch, but the Chief Ex- thing people think of when they think to hire a new worker or to raise wages. ecutive can’t fire him. This makes no of economic prosperity, but it actually A larger business struggling to stay sense. plays a key role in determining the competitive in the global marketplace Finally, the entire CFPB—this huge success of individual families and of while paying a substantially higher tax regulatory agency—is subject to no our economy as a whole. The more rate than its foreign competitors too meaningful oversight. They are not de- money the Federal Government takes often had limited funds to expand or pendent on Congress—the people’s rep- from you in taxes, the less money you increase investment here in the United resentatives—for taxpayer funding. have to pay bills or to buy a house or States. They just draw whatever they want out repair your car or save for retirement. So when it came time for tax reform, of the Fed, which means the Fed has The more money a business has to give we set out to improve the playing field that much less to hand over to the to the Federal Government, the less for American workers by improving the Treasury. An individual, rather than a money it has to grow the business and playing field for businesses as well. To commission, no ability to remove, ex- to invest in its workers. accomplish that, we lowered tax rates cept for cause, and not subject to ap- So when it came time to draft a tax across the board for owners of small propriation—it is a recipe for a dis- bill, Republicans had two goals. First, and medium-sized businesses and farms aster. That is what we have had. we wanted to put more money in the and ranches. We lowered our Nation’s It is not just my opinion, by the way. pockets of hard-working Americans massive corporate tax rate which, up A three-judge panel of the DC Circuit right away. Second, we wanted to cre- until January 1, was the highest cor- Court of Appeals ruled that this struc- ate the kind of economy that would porate tax rate in the developed world. ture is fundamentally unconstitu- give Americans access to economic se- We expanded business owners’ ability tional. I will quote briefly from their curity over the long term. to recover investments they make in decision. They said: ‘‘The CFPB’s [con- Now, I am proud to report that the centration of] enormous executive Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has already their businesses, which frees up cash power in a single, unaccountable, un- achieved the first goal and is well on they can reinvest in their operations checked Director not only departs from its way to achieving the second. To put and their workers. settled historical practice, but also more money in Americans’ pockets, we We brought the U.S. international poses a far greater risk of arbitrary de- lowered tax rates across the board and tax system into the 21st century by re- cision making and abuse of power, and nearly doubled the standard deduc- placing our outdated worldwide system a far greater threat to individual lib- tion—the amount of Americans’ in- with a modernized territorial tax sys- erty, than does a multi-member inde- come that is automatically free from tem so that American businesses are pendent agency.’’ taxation. not operating at a disadvantage rel- We also acted to provide relief for ative to their foreign competitors. Fortunately, we have an Acting Di- parents, who are doing the hard work The goal in all of this was to free up rector at the moment who gets this. of raising the next generation, by dou- businesses to increase investments in Mick Mulvaney has testified about bling the child tax credit and allowing the U.S. economy, to hire new workers, these very flaws in the CFPB and sug- more parents to claim the credit. We and to increase wages and benefits, and gested, as many of us have, at least eliminated the individual mandate tax, that is exactly what they are doing. some structural reforms, making the which disproportionately hit low-in- In response to the Tax Cuts and Jobs CFPB subject to appropriations so Con- come families. We also made sure to Act, more than 500 companies across gress has meaningful oversight; requir- protect key retirement savings plans— this country, and counting, have an- ing that the major rules they pass be 401(k)s and individual retirement ac- nounced good news for American work- subject to a legislative approval, which counts—and we improved education ers. Company after company has an- is Congress taking responsibility for savings accounts, allowing families to nounced pay raises, bonuses, 401(k) the action Congress delegates; giving use their 529 plans to save for elemen- match increases, and other benefits. the President the ability to hire and tary and secondary as well as higher Others are expanding their businesses fire a Director; and having an inde- education. and investing in new equipment and fa- pendent inspector general so we have a Thanks to the IRS’s new withholding cilities. Still others are passing tax watchdog. tables and its new withholding calcu- savings on to their customers in the This is the least we should do. Our lator, Americans have already started form of things like utility rate cuts. colleagues on the other side have not seeing the new tax relief in their pay- That means more money for Americans been willing to agree to any of them, so checks. now and more money for Americans in we have this badly flawed agency. It For a lot of Americans, that is not the future. shouldn’t be surprising that a flawed all they are seeing in their paychecks. Tax day may never be a fun day, but structure leads to badly flawed poli- A lot of Americans are also seeing pay Americans can take heart because cies. That is why we are here dis- increases or bonuses thanks to the Tax thanks to the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, cussing this CRA. It is about the indi- Cuts and Jobs Act. next year’s tax day is going to be a lot rect auto lending guidance, as it is That brings me to our second reform less painful. called, that the CFPB issued some time goal, which was creating the kind of I yield the floor. ago.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.023 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2209 Let me explain a little bit about with this rule. First of all, it is actu- chase price on the vehicle was. They what this is. Indirect auto lending— ally a guidance, not a rulemaking. have no idea what the trade-in was for what is that? Direct auto lending is What does that mean? That means the used vehicle. They have no idea what you might think. It is when a they chose not to follow the law, the what other services were being offered. consumer, a buyer—someone who Administrative Procedure Act, that re- This gets worse. The CFPB decided wants to buy a car—goes to a bank and quires an agency go through a very they needed to make an example of lines up financing from the bank. That systematic and public process of get- someone so they could terrorize the in- would be direct auto financing. Indi- ting a lot of input and review on a pro- dustry into ending this practice of dis- rect auto financing is when the car posed law, proposed rule, before it goes counting interest rates, and they found dealer provides the arrangement of the into effect. a good victim. The Federal Govern- financing for you. The actual financing For very good reason, we require reg- ment owned about 74 percent of Ally is ultimately performed by a lending ulators to get public input, to give ex- Bank at the time. They had an applica- institution, but the car dealer makes perts, consumers, and people engaged tion before the Fed to change their cor- the arrangements. in the business the opportunity to ex- porate organization, which they needed Indirect auto loans are actually very amine the rule under consideration and to do. They needed to complete that; good for consumers for a variety of rea- provide some feedback as to whether otherwise, they would have to shed sons. No. 1, it is very convenient. You there might be unforeseen con- whole business lines. It is a long, com- don’t have to shop around to a bunch of sequences or flaws in it. They did none plicated story. Suffice it to say, Ally banks, as well as a bunch of car deal- of this. The CFPB did not consult with Bank’s future existence, as it was ers. You get one-stop shopping, and the other regulators, as they are re- formed, depended on an approval from you have both. quired by Dodd-Frank, nor did they do the Fed for what should have been a No. 2, it tends to be more competi- a cost-benefit analysis, which is also routine change in corporate structure. tion for the consumers’ loan. How required by Dodd-Frank. They sur- The Fed made it clear they weren’t many banks are you going to realisti- prised the industry and the consumers going to grant that change until there cally go out and visit when you are at- by fundamentally reinterpreting how was a settlement with the CFPB, so Ally Bank was over a barrel. That was tempting to line up your financing? the anti-discrimination legislation exactly what the CFPB wanted. Five But the car dealer can routinely can- would be interpreted. vass all the available lending options Why did they do this? Why did they days before the deadline, which would and make sure the consumer gets the take this approach? Why did they cir- have required Ally Bank to divest itself best possible deal. cumvent the Administrative Procedure of whole categories of business, the Finally, as a routine matter of prac- Act? It is a convenient way to avoid CFPB shakes them down for $100 mil- tice, dealers have always been able to scrutiny. It is a convenient way to im- lion. Four days later, the Fed approves the application. The CFPB found its discount the loan as one of the negoti- pose one’s will without public scrutiny, opportunity, made its example, and it ating provisions in a multipart trans- without any analysis. action. That is important to stress This is a very bad process and, not had a chilling effect on the market. Let me wrap this up with what we here. The nature of the car-buying ex- surprisingly, the outcome is equally are talking about here. It is an unac- perience—for any of us who have done bad. The methodology they used to de- countable, out-of-control agency that it—very typically, there are several termine discrimination on the basis of circumvented the proper rulemaking moving parts, several transactions. race is really amazing. Since there is process in order to avoid public scru- no information about the race of a bor- There is the purchase price you nego- tiny about what they were trying to rower in financing for a vehicle, the tiate for the vehicle you are buying do. They imposed their will on an in- lenders don’t know the race of the bor- and the trade-in value for the vehicle dustry that the Dodd-Frank legislation you are parting with. There is the rowers, literally. They have no idea. explicitly forbid them from regulating. value of other services you may nego- Neither does the CFPB, but that didn’t They developed a badly flawed method- tiate for. It is not possible to judge the stop them from alleging racial dis- ology to allege discrimination on the overall economics of a transaction like crimination. They developed a method- part of lenders on the basis of race, de- this unless you know all of the compo- ology, a system, where they attempt to spite the fact that the lenders didn’t nents. The interest rate you pay on the guess the race of a car buyer who is fi- know the race of the borrowers. They loan is but one of several important nancing the purchase of a car through picked a victim who couldn’t fight components. a loan. They tried to guess their race back. They hit the victim with a $100 Along comes the CFPB. In December based on the last name and geography. million fine without the CFPB know- of 2013, they issued a bulletin that is an They assign a probability to a person ing that any individual was actually attempt to regulate the indirect auto being African American or Hispanic or unfairly treated by Ally Bank. It didn’t lending. In this, they warned lenders of European American or whatever based matter. a disparate impact liability. on a surname and geography. Who ultimately pays the price for Let me explain briefly what this This is a wildly flawed process, which this kind of behavior? The very con- means. First of all, if lending policy is quite predictably led to huge errors. sumers the CFPB is supposed to be discriminatory, it is illegal. If there is Independent, outside analysis has con- serving. Under this very flawed rule of discrimination on the basis of any pro- cluded that their error rates could be the CFPB, the goal was to effectively tected class—and that would include as high as 40 percent. So 40 percent of prevent auto dealers from being able to race, sex, age, gender, and other the people they would designate as Af- discount the interest rate on a loan, things—it is illegal. What the CFPB rican American, in fact, are not, or 40 being unable to compete with a bank came along and said is, even if the percent of the people they would des- down the road that might be offering a lending policy is not discriminatory— ignate as European American, in fact, lower rate, being unable to negotiate a not on its face, it is nondiscrim- are not. It is not just that they got term that might be helpful to a bor- inatory—you can still be liable for the their guesstimate wrong about race, rower. violation of the law if the CFPB thinks but the manner in which they got it Consumers under the CFPB’s rule there is a protected class, some cat- wrong led to the wrong and erroneous have fewer options, less flexibility, re- egory of people, who are paying, on av- conclusion. In other words, there were duced access to credit, and higher erage, a higher interest rate on their systemic flaws that completely invali- costs. That is why Congress should loan. This is the disparate impact the- dated their conclusions. overturn this. This is our opportunity ory the CFPB used in order to attempt Finally, and maybe in some ways to set this right. The House voted 332 to end the ability of auto dealers to most important, they willfully chose to to 96 to repeal this rule. We can do this discount loans as part of a negotiated ignore all the other components of the tomorrow. transaction on a car purchase. transaction. They allege that someone Our colleagues on the other side of Why is this so problematic? There was adversely impacted because they the aisle have complained about the are two categories. First is the very paid a higher rate of interest on a loan, use of a CRA in application to a guid- process by which the CFPB came up but they have no idea what the pur- ance issue. Our Democratic colleagues

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.024 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2210 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 themselves attempted to do this exact rest of the world. These changes to the business and the future of its employ- same thing with respect to a chip guid- Tax Code will bring relief to American ees. This is huge. ance that was issued some years ago, workers and businesses. The average, It is also huge for the entire country and they were perfectly OK with it median-income household in America— because we are much more competitive then. I don’t see why they can’t be OK a family of four—will see its taxes re- today than we have been. For years the with it now. duced by about $2,000 a year, or more Tax Code was working against Amer- It is important to note what this res- than half. ican workers and our entire economy. olution does not do. It does not change, The change to the Tax Code of mak- It was crippling small businesses’ abil- in any way, the legitimate enforcement ing our tax rate more competitive is ity to expand their companies and hire of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act. It making American-made goods much more workers. It was damaging our doesn’t amend that act. It doesn’t more competitive on the world stage. ability to compete with the rest of the change regulation B. The enforcement The greatest hindrance to and the world. Changing the Tax Code last year of the Equal Credit Opportunity Act greatest tax on the American worker was the single greatest thing we could would simply continue as it had gone in years past was this archaically high have done to have unleashed economic for 30-plus years. Discrimination in corporate tax rate. People said: Well, growth this year, and we are just get- credit providing has been illegal and we just pushed all of those profits to ting started. will continue to be illegal when we suc- the corporate entities. No, this is the I have been through some of these cessfully pass this CRA. greatest thing we could do for the large turnarounds, and I characterize I thank Senator MORAN and Will American worker—to help them be- this as a mega turnaround. After 8 Ruder from his staff, John Crews from come more competitive with the rest of years of the lowest economic growth in my staff. I thank Terry van Doren from the world, to give them a level playing U.S. history, we are now on the re- Leader MCCONNELL’s staff for his help. field. That is what we did in this tax bound. That is so important for the fu- I urge my colleagues to vote in favor of bill. ture of our country in the long term. this important Congressional Review We are already seeing the early posi- We have a $21 trillion debt today, as Act resolution. tive results. Over 2 million new jobs the Presiding Officer knows. One of the I yield the floor. have been created since President things we have to do in order to dig our The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Trump took office, and consumer con- way out of that is to get our economy ator from Georgia. fidence is at a 17-year high. As an ex- healthy again. As documented by the TAX REFORM retailer and a person who has worked CBO, or the Congressional Budget Of- Mr. PERDUE. Mr. President, today is with consumer products and in manu- fice, a 1-percent growth in GDP will tax day, 2 days later than April 15 actu- facturing for most of his career, I have yield $300 billion of Federal revenue ally, but nonetheless, today is tax day. watched this index. This is phenomenal every year. That is $3 trillion over the I rise to speak about the impact of to be at a 17-year high this early in next decade. With the projection that what we have done over the last 15 this turnaround. It bodes well for the we are going to add $10 trillion to the months to affect the future of our free future of what we have just done. debt over the next decade just from de- enterprise system in America. When CEO confidence is at a 20-year high. cisions that have been made over the President Donald Trump took office Some $2 trillion in overseas profits has last decade, we can see that just grow- last year, he set out with three clear potentially been unlocked to be made ing the economy alone is not enough to priorities. Under the major objective available now for capital investment solve this debt crisis. last year, job one was to grow the econ- back in this country. Yes, we already There are some in this body who have omy. To do that, he charged us in Con- see public corporations making public argued that this has been nothing but a gress to focus on three things: regula- statements in their quarterly earnings boondoggle, nothing but a huge deficit- tions, energy, and taxes. In addition to reviews about the capital investment increasing exercise. Yes, there were those three, we were supposed to try to plans they are laying out. We see in- identified costs included with this, but get to Dodd-Frank and take away some vestment increases being announced what was not considered by the CBO of the pressure on small banks and re- every month from public companies in was the long-term return on invest- gional banks, which we have done this America today. There is no question ment, the leverage effect of that return year in the Senate. Just a few weeks that businesses are beginning to bring on investment, or the leverage effect of ago, we passed a bill. The reason that those profits home and investing in our this returning profit situation that we is important, those four things will economy. have coming back from the changes in free up some estimated $6 trillion in Nationally, in addition, over 4 mil- the repatriation law. In addition to potential capital investment that has lion Americans have received bonuses that, the CBO disagreed with using the not been at work in our $20 trillion and wage increases. Over 500 businesses impact of foreign direct investment, economy. have taken positive action, be it by which I really don’t understand. What we have just done with regula- giving out bonuses, raising wages, in- I am proud that we got this tax bill tion, energy, and taxes will free up or creasing 401(k) matches, or increasing done, and I know that the positive im- have the opportunity to free up the $6 their overall investments in their com- pact is really just beginning. There are trillion. That is huge in this economy. panies. other things we must do to deal with In the regulatory environment last As a matter of fact, another benefit our national debt in the long term, like year, well over 860 regulations were re- is that most of these public corpora- fixing our budget process, cutting back versed. It is the largest in history. Con- tions have major foundations that do on redundant agencies, saving Social crete steps have been taken to unleash philanthropic work—tremendously Security and Medicare, and finally get- our country’s full energy potential, in- constructive philanthropic work. Most ting after the spiraling nature of the cluding with ANWR, the Keystone of these companies that have made underlying drivers of our healthcare Pipeline, and adjustments to the Clean these announcements about their own costs and not just the insurance of it. Power Plan and the waters of the financial well-being and those of their This wouldn’t be happening without United States, just to mention a few. employees have also dramatically in- these changes to the Tax Code, how- Finally, historic changes to the Tax creased their contributions to those ever, and without a President with a Code were signed into law by President philanthropic efforts and those trust new perspective in the White House. Trump. It used to be that today was a funds. President Trump worked in the real bad day in America, and we all dreaded In my home State of Georgia, dozens world for decades, and he brings that it. It was the day we had to turn our of companies are taking action because sense of urgency to the White House. taxes in. This year, it is actually a day of these changes to the Tax Code, and Today he is working at a business pace, of good news in that this is the last they are making these statements pub- not at a bureaucratic pace, and he is time the American people will have to lic. Just go to any public corporation committed to keeping up the positive file their taxes by using the old, out- today that is in its latest quarterly re- momentum. dated tax system that has become so turn and look at what it is saying This year, the pressure is on the archaic and so noncompetitive with the about how this tax change affects its other side because, right now, as we are

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.025 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2211 trying to deal with immigration, the The issue at hand has to do with dis- rules under the Congressional Review labor issue might be a constraining fac- parate treatment of people when they Act. The guidance in question is imple- tor in the ultimate growth of this econ- go in to get a car. There is plenty of menting guidance for a statute that is omy, and we need to deal with that. evidence that Black and Brown people 50 years old. The guidance came out 5 For different reasons, both sides be- are taken advantage of and treated years ago. The law that it is imple- lieve we need to be investing in infra- more poorly in the credit context than menting is 50 years old. It is a piece of structure. I will remind my colleagues White people. So the CFPB went to col- guidance. It is literally interpretation in this body that it was just in 2011 lect data and to require that people be of an existing law for the public. And when this government threw $1 trillion treated fairly. now we are going to overturn the inter- into our economy. I would debate the I will be voting against this CRA ve- pretation of an existing law from an benefit of that particular investment hicle, but I actually think there is a executive agency. We are not over- because it was not thrown at those bigger, broader, more concerning issue. turning a rulemaking. stimulative issues that would grow the I am going to try to work with the Par- When you go through the rulemaking economy. liamentarian’s office and with the lead- process in the executive branch, it Today, America deals with a new ership of both parties to try to address takes anywhere from 12 to 36 months. world. The world situation has never it. Although it is arcane, it is very wor- There is a rigorous process. It is sort of been more dangerous. The best thing risome for the Senate itself. quasi-judicial, and you have to really we can do for our military and for our The Congressional Review Act passed check all the boxes and do it right. people is to get this economy moving in 1996. The idea was straightforward: Otherwise, you get sued under the Ad- again and create a level playing field All rules have to have some authority ministrative Procedure Act. None of around the world to help our trade sit- beyond the desire for the agency to that happened. This was just guidance. uation. That is what the President is want to promulgate rules. It is subject So now, if the Parliamentarian and trying to do right now—to create a to review by the Congress. In other the GAO and everyone else decides that more level playing field so as to grow words, if you don’t like what an agency the CRA applies to guidance, then the our economy, fix our budget process, is doing, now there is a pathway called time limits on CRA don’t matter at all, and deal with the spending issues that privileged, which allows the Congress and the interpretation of this statute we have here at home. to go ahead and overturn that rule. In is rendered absurd. I am excited to be a part of the Joint the Senate, it is especially important I will point out that this is not the Select Committee on Budget Process because it is not subject to a 60-vote most well-crafted Federal law on the Reform, which is charged with chang- threshold. This is a big deal. This al- books. It is very difficult to interpret ing the way we fund the Federal Gov- lows Congress to say any time there is this Federal law, so I sympathize with ernment every year. I am hopeful that a rule made: We are going to overturn the Parliamentarian and GAO and the will lead to a new budget process that it with a bare majority threshold. That leadership of both parties, who are try- will allow us to avoid the continuing was the will of the Congress, and that ing to make sense of a statute that is resolutions and the omnibuses by is Federal law. unclear in some places. But when a which five or six people get in a room Here is how the statute works. The statute is unclear, you are supposed to and decide how to spend $1 trillion. The rule gets submitted to GAO and Con- interpret the statute in a way that the tax changes alone will not dig us out of gress, and then a clock starts and a statute functions. Right now, what we this debt crisis. We knew that this was bunch of statutory triggers go. I dug are doing is we are rendering the stat- the first step in getting it going, and I into this over the last 10 weeks. Suffice ute essentially absurd because if it is a am delighted with the impact that it is it to say it is very complicated. There rule, you have a strict time limit. If it having on our economy today. is a strict timeline, and there are 60 is guidance—and I am not sure, if it is I yield the floor. legislative days to take action. And be- guidance, why that wouldn’t also apply I suggest the absence of a quorum. cause we are the legislative branch of to an agency circular or an executive The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. the Federal Government, legislative memorandum for the Under Secretary. FLAKE). The clerk will call the roll. days are not actual days; it ends up All of this could be subject to tens of The bill clerk proceeded to call the taking four times that long. thousands of pieces of guidance and roll. The important part is that there is a rules and views, and whatever is con- Mr. PERDUE. Mr. President, I ask process that is prescribed for that, and sidered policymaking could be sub- unanimous consent that the order for there is a timeframe that is prescribed jected to a Congressional Review Act the quorum call be rescinded. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without for that. That is the authority the Con- action. I think that is completely ba- objection, it is so ordered. gress gave itself in 1996. That authority nanas. is very clear about two things: We are going down a path where Con- f First, it is meant to apply to rules, gress can take an administrative ac- RECESS which are binding, and it is meant to tion that has been done in the last 22 Mr. PERDUE. Mr. President, I ask have legal force. The CRA gives the years and subject it to the CRA, and unanimous consent that the Senate Congress a way to weigh in when an you will not need 60 votes. This is bad stand in recess until 5:30 p.m. today. agency’s interpretation of the law con- for our institution. I can’t stress that There being no objection, the Senate, flicts with the legislative intentions. enough. I understand that this is not at 4:21 p.m., recessed until 5:33 p.m. and Second, it only applies to rules that the kind of thing that people across the reassembled when called to order by were recently promulgated. In other country are going to be deeply pas- the Presiding Officer (Mr. RUBIO). words, they specifically envisioned sionate about and march on the streets that a clock would run. The rule gets f about and be motivated to vote on, but submitted to Congress, the clock runs, we are in the Senate, and we have an PROVIDING FOR CONGRESSIONAL and if the Congress likes the rule or if obligation to safeguard the way this in- DISAPPROVAL OF A RULE SUB- there is not sufficient will to overturn stitution operates. MITTED BY BUREAU OF CON- the rule, then the rule stands. If the I am deeply afraid that if we subject SUMER FINANCIAL PROTEC- Congress doesn’t like the rule, then a every piece of administration guid- TION—Continued Member can introduce a CRA resolu- ance—and remember, the door swings The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- tion of disapproval, and we act on it. both ways in Washington. We will have ator from Hawaii. This is why what is happening right a Democratic Senate. Who knows Mr. SCHATZ. Mr. President, I am now is totally nuts. What is happening when, but we will have a Democratic here to give some brief remarks about right now is not what we have nor- Senate and we will have a Democratic what we are on right now, which is a mally done with CRAs. What is hap- House, and we can scour everything Congressional Review Act vehicle to pening right now is that we are submit- that every Republican administration reconsider agency guidance. There is ting agency guidance—not a rule but has done since 1996 pursuant to any law nothing that sounds more arcane and agency guidance—which has no legal made at any time in our American his- wonky than that. force, to the same procedures as the tory and subject it to a majority vote.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:15 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.026 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2212 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 I think the last thing this institution pension funding, expanded maternity come at a better time. Let me tell you needs is a new opportunity to go down and paternal leave, and more paid holi- again why. new rabbit holes on partisan issues and days. More than 10,000 jobs are ex- Under the failed economic policies of a new opportunity to fight on small pected to be created in Southern Ne- the Obama administration, Nevadans things and not deal with the biggest vada alone. suffered through 8 years of historically challenges of our time. So it is no surprise that Nevada was low economic growth. Think about I am going to oppose this on the mer- recently ranked second among States this. In those 8 years, the average econ- its, but I am more worried about what when it comes to middle-income fami- omy growth was less than 2 percent. As we are doing to our institution. Right lies who benefit the most from tax re- a result, wages and workers suffered, now, the Senate is not functioning at a form. job creation suffered, and the middle high level. We have not had any open Let me give you a few examples of class in America suffered. amendment process except vote-arama, how this new law is impacting Nevad- It has been reported that nearly 8 in which I think 100 Senators would agree ans. South Point Hotel Casino and Spa 10 Americans who work full time are is a useless process. So the regular doubled bonuses for its 2,300 full-time living paycheck to paycheck, and if order, which was called for by the then- workers. you live in Nevada, you are more likely minority leader when he was criti- The Prospector Hotel in Ely gave its to be living paycheck to paycheck than cizing Majority Leader Reid, is no- employees a $500 bonus and raised its if you lived anywhere else. where to be found. I am not blaming starting wages. Whether it is a single mother, who is him. I am not blaming anyone in par- McDonald’s, which has around 9,000 taking classes to further her education ticular. But I am saying that when employees in my State, is expanding to give her kids a good life, or the po- there is an opportunity to at least pre- its education benefits program, tri- lice officer and teacher with four chil- vent this institution from falling fur- pling the amount of money eligible dren in Southern Nevada who tell me ther, we should take that opportunity. workers can receive to help cover the that they are barely getting by and are I understand we are not going to be cost of college tuition. doing the best they can, families in my able to intervene in this moment and Lowe’s Home Improvement, which State are trying to plan for their fu- stop this CRA, but let the record re- employs more than 2,000 Nevadans, an- tures. They have told me they are flect that I do not accept that a prece- nounced it is expanding benefits, such struggling, but it is not just Nevadans dent is being set. This has not been ref- as adoption assistance and parental who felt the squeeze. ereed yet. We have not fully had a con- paid leave, and giving bonuses of up to Nearly two-thirds of Americans don’t versation with the Parliamentarian $1,000 to its employees. even have $500 set aside to cover an un- and GAO about what exactly CRA is Walmart announced it will increase expected emergency expense. That is supposed to mean and how it is sup- wages, give eligible employees a special why, as a member of the Senate Fi- posed to operate. If it is supposed to bonus of $1,000, and expand maternity nance Committee, I worked to help operate in an absurd way, I think we and parental leave benefits—benefiting write this legislation. I fought to pass have a lot of work to do. up to 8,700 Walmart associates who are these meaningful tax cuts for the peo- I yield the floor. living in the great State of Nevada. ple of my State because they have been The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- CVS, which has roughly 2,000 employ- waiting too long for a break. ator from Nevada. ees and 100 stores in Nevada, an- I was proud to propose and secure a TAX REFORM nounced that effective this month, it provision in the new law that doubles Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, first of will increase the starting salary and the child tax credit to $2,000 per child. all, happy tax day—three words that wages for hourly employees. Think about this. The enhanced child probably don’t usually go together. I Developers of the stalled Fontaine- tax credit could mean enough money will share that anyway because the bleau Resort, recently renamed the for a family of 4 to cover more than 6 reason I am up here is that for the first Drew, announced they will resume the months’ worth of groceries, buy school time in more than three decades, Con- project and have committed to cre- supplies for 4 kids, and purchase more gress overhauled our Tax Code, and ating over 10,000 new jobs. than 9,000 diapers. It will allow families that is what distinguishes this tax day A–1 Steel, which is based in Sparks, to better plan for their futures. from the ones that came before it. This NV, implemented eight paid holidays Take Sarah as an example, a single is the last time Nevadans will file their for its employees. mom living in Nevada. She told us she taxes under the broken system of the Finally, Cox Communications said it used her child tax credit to help her past. will give around 1,750 Nevadans bo- and her four children move out of a You don’t have to look too far to see nuses of up to $2,000 today. Yes, on tax family shelter and pay rent a full year the positive impacts of our new tax day they will be giving their employees in advance. laws. They are already having an im- bonuses of up to $2,000. This is just the In addition to doubling the child tax pact on the people of my home State of beginning. credit, we doubled the standard deduc- Nevada. Nevadans and Americans During a phone call from the Na- tion, cut rates for low-income and mid- throughout the country have already tional Federation of Independent Busi- dle-class families. It is expected that a benefited from keeping more of their ness in Nevada, roughly 9 in 10 Nevada typical family of four will keep more hard-earned money. In fact, more than business owners said that because of than $2,000 this year. 1 million Nevadans saw their pay- the new tax law, they plan to take ac- It also lowered rates on businesses to checks get bigger last month because tion that includes increasing workers’ ensure that we are globally competi- we doubled the standard deduction and wages and investing in their compa- tive and help incite economic growth. I we doubled the child tax credit. Tax- nies. Several companies are also pledg- am pleased this bill included my provi- payers in every income category re- ing to put more of their capital back sion to make it easier for startups to ceived a tax cut under this bill. into our country rather than overseas. give more junior employees an owner- Furthermore, since President Trump Apple, which recently broke ground ship stake in their company’s success. signed the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act into on a new facility in Reno, announced it I have been fighting for tax reform law just a few months ago, more than will create 20,000 new jobs nationally, for years, and last year we set out to 500 companies throughout the country open a new campus, and directly con- cut taxes for hard-working Americans have committed to giving their work- tribute $350 billion to the U.S. economy and agreed to a framework that in- ers bonuses, pay raises, and enhanced over the next 5 years. cluded three main goals: create more benefits as a direct result of tax re- Make no mistake about it, the Tax jobs, increase wages, and boost Amer- form. Let me share a few of those in Cuts and Jobs Act is working for the ican competitiveness. Even though it my home State. About 11,000 Nevadans people in Nevada. Despite the bill’s has only been a few months, I believe got a raise. Roughly 13,000 Nevadans re- critics, who have described these tax we have already achieved all three of ceived special bonuses of up to $2,000. cuts as ‘‘crumbs’’ and said it is ‘‘the those. Up to 25,000 Nevadans may benefit from worst bill in the history of the U.S. As the son of an auto mechanic and a college tuition assistance, increased Congress,’’ this new bill couldn’t have school cook, I grew up watching my

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.029 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2213 parents work hard to provide for me This is really helping. The average ployers in the United States. It is a and my five brothers and sisters and to person in Ohio will probably see maybe great grocery store chain—the largest provide a good life. They told us that if $30, $40, $50 every 2 weeks in their pay- in the country, by the way. They hap- we worked hard and played by the check. That adds up. The average in pen to be headquartered in Ohio. They rules, then we, too, could achieve the Ohio for a median income family is made a huge announcement yesterday. American dream. about $2,000 a year in tax relief. That is They said they are going to take the Our problem today is that too many the average. That is a big deal. That is savings they got from the tax relief people think that the American dream not just crumbs. and tax reform measure, and they are is out of reach. That is what tax relief Most people I represent live pay- going to substantially give it back to legislation is all about—empowering check to paycheck. Most people I rep- their employees. families to give them a better chance resent think $2,000 is really helpful. By The things they talked about were to get ahead and to prepare for their the way, they tell me they are using it. very interesting. One is to increase the futures. It might be for a long-planned vacation 401(k) match. That is important. They The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act has put they couldn’t afford. It might be, as a already give a 100-percent match. Now my State and our country on the right couple of people have told me, to help they are going to do it at 5 percent, track to economic prosperity, and I with healthcare because they couldn’t rather than 4 percent, of people’s sal- look forward to seeing what the rest of afford to buy healthcare until they had ary. That is nice because people can the year brings for Nevada families and that extra $2,000 in their pocket—or save more for their own retirement. their workers. more for some people—to be able to af- They talked about helping employees Thank you. ford healthcare. who are having a tough time through I yield the floor. For others—we heard a great story the employee assistance program. They The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- this morning from my colleague from are increasing funding for that pro- ator from Ohio. West Virginia about a woman who said gram. They talked about the employee Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. President, I just her daughter used to have to do her discount program so the employees can had a chance to hear my colleague schoolwork at school or maybe at the buy more from their own stores, ex- from Nevada talk a little bit about the library. She couldn’t come home to do panding more things they can buy and importance of the tax cuts and tax re- it because they couldn’t afford high- how much they can buy with discounts. form that this Chamber passed at the speed internet. Now she can afford That helps their employees. end of the year and that is now in ef- high-speed internet with this tax relief They also talked about something I fect. that is being provided. So this is some- thought was really great, which is con- All I can say to my constituents is, thing that is actually affecting people tinuing education—lifelong learning. this is the last year you are going to right now. They said they are going to provide have to file under the old code. You As you go to the post office to mail their employees with a $3,500-a-year— will have the new code next year. Why your form today, or as you send it in $3,500-a-year—stipend to continue their is that important? Because it is sim- electronically, just know it is going to education. Maybe it is getting a GED, pler. It doubles the standard deduction, get a little bit better, a little bit sim- or maybe it is getting an MBA and ev- as an example, which is a great sim- pler, with a little bit less tax liability. erything in between, but they believe plification for a lot of taxpayers. It By the way, the IRS has had some in education. They want to help these also takes about 3 million people off difficulty in accepting electronic fil- employees be able to better them- the tax rolls altogether. ings today—another reason we actually selves. They believe that will also help Think about that. According to the have had to go beyond just tax reform, them to keep people longer term. This Joint Committee on Taxation, over 3 as important as that is, because we is part of how they are using the tax million Americans, who currently have have to ensure we have an IRS that is cut. income tax liability, will no longer working for the American taxpayer. By the way, it is applicable to every- have it under this new tax reform bill. The taxpayer service, the number of body who has been there for 6 months. Why? Because it focuses on lowering calls that are being answered, the num- You only have to be there for 6 months the rates, doubling the standard deduc- ber of answers which will be given cor- to apply for this. You can be there part tion, and doubling the child tax credit. rectly, all of those indicators are con- time or full time, and you get this as- That helps people who are lower in- cerning right now. So we do need to en- sistance for education. This is all com- come Americans, who right now have sure that the IRS has adequate funding ing from the tax relief this body tax liabilities and will not in the fu- to respond to taxpayers but also that passed. ture. So it will be easier for a lot of there are reforms at the IRS so their Is it making a difference in the lives people a year from now because they computer systems do work, so the dif- of your constituents? It certainly is in will have no tax-filing debate because ferent stovepipe systems are talking to the lives of my mine; I can tell you they will not have any tax liability, each other. that. and for others, it is just a simpler So tax reform and tax relief are very I have now been to 13 different busi- form. important but also, as we have seen nesses around the State of Ohio, and I What is already happening this year today with this glitch with regard to have asked them this question directly: is that the paychecks are changing. electronic filing, we have to make sure What is happening? What are you Why? Because the IRS is saying the the IRS is up to the task and providing doing? All of them tell me they are in- employees are going to get more the taxpayer service that people de- vesting either in their people or they money in their paychecks because the serve. are investing in their plants and equip- employers are going to withhold less as The tax relief effort, though, wasn’t ment, helping the technology so people we go into 2018 because the tax pro- just for families and individuals. It also can be more competitive and more ef- posals went into effect at the beginning focuses on business relief. Why? Be- fective at doing their jobs. of this year. So even though this is the cause we know American companies I have also had a half dozen round- last time we will have to file under the were not competitive under the old table discussions, where I bring small old code, people are already seeing code. You had investment going over- business owners together, and dozens of some of the benefits of tax reform. seas and you had jobs going overseas. businesses have told me what they are When I go around Ohio, I talk to peo- There is tax relief for small businesses doing. Some are providing more ple, and they say: You know, ROB, my and large businesses alike. We are healthcare coverage. In a couple of paycheck has already changed. That is hearing more about that because we cases—one is a small craft brewer in because 90 percent of Americans are have seen a lot of headlines. Ohio, another is an auto parts com- now being told they will have less There was another one today about pany—they are providing healthcare withholding taken out of their pay- yet another major company that is for their employees for the first time. checks, again, because of the lower tax making some investments in this coun- In one case, they had it before it got rate, doubling of the child tax credit, try. too expensive because of the Affordable and doubling of the standard deduc- I was at the Kroger company yester- Care Act, and now they are able to pro- tion. day. Kroger is one of the largest em- vide healthcare for their employees.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.030 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2214 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 Another one had never provided month before, we can see these wages ing their time in the Senate. So in this healthcare because it was a small busi- start creeping back up again. way, we are simply anticipating what ness just getting started, and now they This is really exciting to me because, we see as the future, and it is on us to can provide healthcare for their em- ultimately, we want to see economic make this a better workplace before ployees because of the savings from the growth, yes, but we really want to see they get here. I think workplaces tax bill. working families be able to see a little across America are making, and have Others are doing much more in terms higher income so that they are not made, those same kinds of adjustments of the community and charitable giv- stuck in this squeeze where their in- and decisions. ing, again, some with regard to 401(k)s come is flat and yet their expenses are As the ranking member of the Rules and some with regard to new equip- up. Committee, I recognize that this means ment and machines to make their em- What is the biggest expense that has that some of our outdated rules—and ployees more productive. been increasing? Healthcare. So, yes, Senator BLUNT as the chair realizes When economists look at what is we have to do more on healthcare and, this as well—that were developed with- going on in our economy, they think: yes, we have to do more to increase out considering the changing needs in Gosh, the reason wages haven’t gone up economic growth, but wouldn’t it be the workplace must be changed. Sen- much in the last decade—and, really, it great to have wages going up to be able ator DUCKWORTH has taken the lead, has been flat in Ohio—is because work to compensate for that and to give peo- and her resolution is an important part productivity has not been high enough. ple again the sense that if they are of that change. Well, this tax reform effort is providing doing the right things in life, if they As she prepared to give birth, Sen- more investment to our companies. are willing to work hard and play by ator DUCKWORTH did what many moms I would much rather have people in- the rules, they can get ahead and their do. She started to come up with a plan vesting here in America than investing kids and their grandkids can get ahead for how to juggle her family and her overseas, and that is what was hap- too. work. Like too many other moms in pening. Three times as many American So I am excited to be here today to the United States, she came to realize companies were bought by foreign com- say that this is the last day we have to that there were problems in her work- panies last year, instead of the other file under the old Tax Code but also to place for accommodating new moms. way around because of our Tax Code. say that the new Tax Code is helping to Senators have important constitu- There was a study out by Ernst & give the families that I represent the tional obligations related to their serv- Young that said 4,700 of companies opportunity to do a little better, to ice, the most fundamental among them went overseas. When they do that, they give businesses that I represent the op- being voting on legislation. The Senate take their investment with them. They portunity be more competitive and to rules require Senators to vote in per- take some of their R&D with them. reinvest in their employees and to rein- son. We have no intention of changing We have done studies on this to be vest in their businesses and their com- that. They must vote on the Senate able to show that 4,700 companies had petitiveness and their productivity. floor, and no one can do it for them. gone overseas that would have stayed— That, ultimately, is what is going to Right now, unlike in the House, chil- American companies—just over the make the biggest difference in this tax dren are not allowed on the Senate last 13 years if we had the kind of tax reform effort. floor. That means that in order to ful- reform in place we now have. Those With that, I see that one of my col- fill her Senate obligation, Senator companies now have incentive to be leagues is here. here. They have incentive to invest I yield the floor. DUCKWORTH would have to leave her here. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- baby for extended periods in order to Foreign companies now have an in- ator from Minnesota. come in and vote. Sometimes that would be just fine. She would have centive to invest here. When they are S. RES. 463 childcare. Her husband would be there. trying to decide between investing in Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, But as we all know, there are times Japan, China, or Europe, now they look this is a very focused topic and I will when we vote late into the night, when here and say: This is a lower tax rate, just be a few minutes. and you get immediate expensing. In I rise today to discuss S. Res. 463, we vote at unpredictable times, and it other words, when you buy something, which is a resolution that Senator doesn’t work for a mom with a new- born. you can expense it more quickly, de- BLUNT and I just discharged from the duct it more quickly. That encourages Rules Committee that will help new So what did Senator DUCKWORTH do? investment here, whether you are a parents—specifically, Senator par- She called for legislation to change the U.S. company or a foreign company. ents—to bring their infant children rules so that Senators can bring their That is why this is exciting. onto the Senate floor. It hasn’t been infants on the floor during votes, and There is some new information out brought to the Senate floor yet, but I we worked to come up with a workable from the Congressional Budget Office thought I would give an update and ex- proposal. that talks about economic growth, and plain the importance and really the I am proud to say that this week, the it says that because of the tax reform historic nature of this resolution. Senate Rules Committee swiftly dis- effort, we are seeing higher growth As my colleagues know, this month charged the legislation so that it can rates. For this year—the year we are in Senator DUCKWORTH made history be passed by the full Senate, because right now—the Congressional Budget when she gave birth to her beautiful that is what working moms do. They Office had projected 2 percent eco- daughter Maile Pearl. Senator stick together and they get the job nomic growth—pretty weak. I mean, it DUCKWORTH has made history in many done. is growth, but it is not enough to get ways but, among other things, she is Sticking together means recognizing wages up. It is not enough to really get the first sitting U.S. Senator to give that we have a lot of work to do inside people the opportunities they are look- birth while in office. the Halls of Congress. The truth is too ing for when they work hard and play Some have pointed out that it is re- many American moms aren’t in posi- by the rules. Guess what they are say- markable that it took so long to have tions of power to change the rules, ing now: 3.3 percent, not 2 percent. So a Senator who gave birth while in of- which is why it is so important for 3.3 percent economic growth is pro- fice, and I think it does speak to the those of us who are in positions of jected for this year. Again, they say fact that while we are a growing num- power to be champions of change, not this is largely attributable to the pro- ber of women in Congress, there are just here in the Senate but in work- growth policies included in the tax re- still not that many, and it is changing. places across the country. It is wrong form effort we are talking about—the We currently now have 23 women that America is the only industrialized tax cuts. Senators, which is an all-time record— country without a law that requires They also say that for the first time more than at any time in history. We paid maternity leave, and it is wrong in a long time, we are seeing wages are seeing record levels of women run that only 10 percent of American em- going up. They project wages going up. for office. It is inevitable that in the ployers offer workers full pay during When we look at last month and the future more women will have kids dur- parental leave.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.032 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2215 The lack of parental leave, coupled MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE ant to law, a six-month periodic report on with the cost of childcare, has a pro- the national emergency with respect to the At 2:15 p.m., a message from the Central African Republic that was declared found impact on our economy and on House of Representatives, delivered by our society, and it is one of the rea- in Executive Order 13667 of May 12, 2014; to Mr. Novotny, one of its reading clerks, the Committee on Banking, Housing, and sons, I believe, why there are not announced that the House has passed Urban Affairs. enough women in power. We must do the following bill, without amendment: EC–4917. A communication from the Sec- better. S. 167. An act to designate a National Me- retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- Adopting Senator DUCKWORTH’s reso- morial to Fallen Educators at the National ant to law, a six-month periodic report on lution represents a small step forward. Teachers Hall of Fame in Emporia, Kansas. the national emergency with respect to Yemen that was declared in Executive Order In fact, it is one baby forward. In an- The message also announced that the swer to some of the questions that I 13611 of May 16, 2012; to the Committee on House has passed the following bills, in Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. got in the hallway, no, there will not which it requests the concurrence of EC–4918. A communication from the Execu- be wardrobe requirements of the baby, the Senate: tive Secretary, U.S. Agency for Inter- and, no, we do not believe the baby will H.R. 146. An act to take certain Federal national Development (USAID), transmit- be required to wear a Senate pin. lands in Tennessee into trust for the benefit ting, pursuant to law, a report relative to a Somehow, I think we will be able to of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and vacancy in the position of Deputy Adminis- adjust to this simple notion to allow a for other purposes. trator, U.S . Agency for International Devel- child—an infant—on the floor for the H.R. 443. An act to direct the Secretary of opment (USAID), received in the Office of the Interior to study the suitability and fea- the President of the Senate on April 16, 2018; first year of life. That is why I am to the Committee on Foreign Relations. hopeful that this will inspire further sibility of designating the James K. Polk Home in Columbia, Tennessee, as a unit of EC–4919. A communication from the Dep- change both inside and outside of Con- the National Park System, and for other uty Secretary of Health and Human Serv- gress. purposes. ices, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report In addition to the support of all of H.R. 3607. An act to authorize the Sec- relative to the Strategic Plan for the Depart- the women Senators, I would like to retary of the Interior to establish fees for ment of Health and Human Services for fis- cal years 2018–2022; to the Committee on thank Chairman BLUNT, Leaders medical services provided in units of the Na- Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. MCCONNELL and SCHUMER, and Senator tional Park System, and for other purposes. H.R. 3961. An act to amend the Wild and EC–4920. A communication from the Im- DURBIN, Senator DUCKWORTH’s col- Scenic Rivers Act to designate segments of pact Analyst, Office of Regulation Policy league, who all played an instrumental the Kissimmee River and its tributaries in and Management, Department of Veterans role in getting this resolution to the the State of Florida for study for potential Affairs, transmitting, pursuant to law, the floor. Women may be leading the addition to the National Wild and Scenic report of a rule entitled ‘‘Schedule for Rat- charge, but there are a lot of good men Rivers System, and for other purposes. ing Disabilities: The Organs of Special Sense who have had our backs, and that is a H.R. 4609. An act to provide for the convey- and Schedule of Ratings—Eye’’ (RIN2900– good thing, because we need to work ance of a Forest Service site in Dolores AP14) received in the Office of the President of the Senate on April 16, 2018; to the Com- together as we continue to fight for County, Colorado, to be used for a fire sta- tion. mittee on Veterans’ Affairs. more family-friendly workplaces. f Finally, I would like to thank the f one who did all the work, Senator MEASURES REFERRED PETITIONS AND MEMORIALS DUCKWORTH, who continues to serve The following bills were read the first The following petitions and memo- our country with courage and strength, and the second times by unanimous rials were laid before the Senate and for paving the way. Maile Pearl is very consent, and referred as indicated: were referred or ordered to lie on the lucky to have Senator DUCKWORTH as a H.R. 146. An act to take certain Federal table as indicated: mom, and I look forward to meeting lands in Tennessee into trust for the benefit POM–199. A joint memorial adopted by the her here on the Senate floor during a of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, and Legislature of the State of Idaho memori- future round of votes. for other purposes; to the Committee on In- alizing its opposition to any new federal na- I yield the floor. dian Affairs. tional monument designations or further The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- H.R. 3607. An act to authorize the Sec- designations of wilderness in the State of jority leader. retary of the Interior to establish fees for Idaho without the approval of the United medical services provided in units of the Na- States Congress and the Idaho Legislature; f tional Park System, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Natural to the Committee on Energy and Natural Re- Resources. MORNING BUSINESS sources. SENATE JOINT MEMORIAL NO. 103 H.R. 3961. An act to amend the Wild and Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Whereas, the Antiquities Act was passed Scenic Rivers Act to designate segments of by the United States Congress and signed ask unanimous consent that the Sen- the Kissimmee River and its tributaries in ate be in a period of morning business, into law by President Theodore Roosevelt on the State of Florida for study for potential June 8, 1906. The law gives the President of with Senators permitted to speak addition to the National Wild and Scenic the United States the authority to, by presi- therein for up to 10 minutes each. Rivers System, and for other purposes; to the dential proclamation, create national monu- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Committee on Energy and Natural Re- ments from federal lands to protect signifi- objection, it is so ordered. sources. cant natural, cultural or scientific features. H.R. 4609. An act to provide for the convey- The law has been used more than one hun- f ance of a Forest Service site in Dolores dred times since its passage; and County, Colorado, to be used for a fire sta- Whereas, the Wilderness Act was passed in MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT tion; to the Committee on Energy and Nat- 1964 and, since that time, the United States Messages from the President of the ural Resources. Congress has designated nearly 110 million United States were communicated to f acres of federal wildlands as official wilder- the Senate by Ms. Ridgway, one of his ness, which has the highest form of protec- EXECUTIVE AND OTHER tion of any federal wildland; and secretaries. COMMUNICATIONS Whereas, almost sixty-two percent of land f The following communications were in Idaho is federal land; and laid before the Senate, together with Whereas, residents of the State of Idaho EXECUTIVE MESSAGES REFERRED support multiple use of public land. Current accompanying papers, reports, and doc- multiple use and private land protection As in executive session the Presiding uments, and were referred as indicated: policies governing the management of public Officer laid before the Senate messages EC–4915. A communication from the Sec- land in Idaho have generally served and sus- from the President of the United retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- tained the interests of Idaho residents; and States submitting sundry nominations ant to law, a six-month periodic report on Whereas, ranching and agriculture play a which were referred to the appropriate the national emergency with respect to substantial role in the state’s heritage and Syria that was declared in Executive Order identity and should be preserved; and committees. 13338 of May 11, 2004; to the Committee on Whereas, ranching, agriculture, mining, (The messages received today are Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. the forestry industry and recreation are pri- printed at the end of the Senate pro- EC–4916. A communication from the Sec- mary economic drivers in the state, with ag- ceedings.) retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- ribusiness and recreation each contributing

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:15 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.033 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2216 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 an estimated $7.6 billion, the mining indus- POM–200. A joint memorial adopted by the (1) Recognize and protect the authorized try contributing $1.3 billion and the forestry Legislature of the State of Idaho urging the purposes and water rights for storage industry contributing $2 billion to the econ- Department of State to support several posi- projects in Idaho, including irrigation, recre- omy annually in recent years, all of which tions in negotiations with Canada regarding ation, hydropower and local flood control; would be substantially impacted by any land any modification or future implementation (2) Advocate that only storage projects management changes; and of the Columbia River Treaty; to the Com- specifically authorized by Congress for sys- Whereas, Idaho residents, families and visi- mittee on Foreign Relations. tem-wide flood control may be required to tors currently enjoy multiple use on federal HOUSE JOINT MEMORIAL NO. 11 provide such benefits under the treaty, with lands and have generations of family tradi- Whereas, since it was implemented in 1964, no increased flood control burden placed on tions. Changing federal land designations the Columbia River Treaty has provided for projects in Idaho; would impact local wildlife management as a coordinated management of the Columbia (3) Recognize a need to review and rebal- well as opportunities to hunt and fish; and River to reduce flooding impacts and in- ance the Canadian Entitlement; Whereas, changes in federal land designa- crease power generation throughout the Co- (4) Recognize the ecosystem benefits that tions or classifications would affect land use lumbia River Basin; and have already been provided by storage by imposing restrictions on development, re- Whereas, the treaty provides that either projects in the United States pursuant to the source extraction, recreation and land ex- the United States or Canada may terminate other federal laws and refrain from advo- changes that would result in diminished eco- the treaty by providing written notice at cating for additional ecosystem contribu- nomic opportunities and restrictions on ’ac- least 10 years in advance of termination; and tions from U.S. projects; cess and multiple use; and Whereas, the U.S. and Canadian entities (5) Recognize that ecosystem restoration, Whereas, the people of the State of Idaho previously reviewed the treaty and deter- as that term has been used by some pro- value abundant water resources and water mined that the treaty should be modified; ponents of modernization, is intentionally rights and have concern that new national and vague and if incorporated into an inter- monument designations or further designa- Whereas, on December 7, 2017, the U.S. national treaty could be used as a vehicle to tion of wilderness by Congress could affect State Department issued a press release stat- override and infringe upon existing federal those resources and rights; and ing that the United States and Canada will environmental laws and usurp state sov- Whereas, the Idaho Roadless Rule is Ida- begin negotiations to modernize the treaty ereignty over water and, therefore, require ho’s 2006 plan that provides a framework for in early 2018; and any treaty modification to preserve federal use and protection of more than nine million Whereas, the U.S. Entity Regional Rec- environmental protection laws and state acres of federal public backcountry. The rule ommendation of 2013 concluded that the pur- water laws and reject any additional mitiga- is viewed as a nationwide model of collabora- poses of a ‘‘modernized’’ treaty should be ex- tion requirement; tion among groups and individuals with di- panded to include consideration of ‘‘eco- (6) Require any treaty modification to rec- verse interests and concerns; and system-based function’’ in addition to the ognize the primary authority and state sov- Whereas, the Roadless Rule specifically original flood control and hydropower pur- prescribes protective management under the ereignty of Idaho and its sister states over poses of the treaty; and their respective water resources; wildland recreation theme, and it is feared Whereas, unless otherwise agreed to, the (7) Reject any attempts through the treaty that utilization of the Antiquities Act for treaty provides that, in 2024, flood control modification process to incorporate the re- new national monument designations or fur- operations will automatically shift from pro- introduction of anadromous species above ther designation of wilderness by Congress viding guaranteed flood control space in Ca- Hells Canyon or Dworshak, as such efforts would overturn the agreement reached in the nadian reservoirs to ‘‘called upon’’ flood con- are outside the scope of the treaty purposes; formulation of the Idaho Roadless Rule, with trol operations; and and no effort to reach consensus through coordi- Whereas, the U.S. and Canadian entities nation as required by federal law; and have provided differing interpretations of (8) Protect navigation so that adverse Whereas, several years ago, advisory votes the ‘‘called upon’’ flood control provisions, flows do not impact the transportation chan- relating to a suggested new national monu- with the U.S. Entity asserting that ‘‘called nel or block system operations; and be it fur- ment designation and a wilderness designa- upon’’ operations apply only to dams in the ther tion in Idaho were held in a number of poten- Columbia River Basin specifically authorized Resolved, That the Chief Clerk of the House tially affected counties in central and east- for ‘‘system-wide flood control,’’ and the Ca- of Representatives be, and she is hereby au- ern Idaho, both showing over ninety percent nadian Entity taking the position that all thorized and directed to forward a copy of opposition to such designations. Now, there- U.S. storage projects in the Columbia River this Memorial to the President of the Senate fore, be it Basin must be utilized for system-wide flood and the Speaker of the House of Representa- Resolved, By the members of the Second Reg- control before Canadian reservoirs are called tives of Congress, and to the congressional ular Session of the Sixty-fourth Idaho Legisla- upon to provide any flood control space; and delegation representing the State of Idaho in ture, the Senate and the House of Representa- Whereas, altered flood control operations the Congress of the United States, the U.S. tives concurring therein, that we oppose any could have devastating impacts on reservoir Department of State, the Columbia River new federal national monument designations storage and operation levels, irrigation, Treaty Negotiator, the U.S. Entity Coordi- or further designations of wilderness in the recreation, hydropower, local flood control nator, Bonneville Power Administration and State of Idaho without the approval of the and other authorized purposes in Idaho; and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. United States Congress and the Idaho Legis- Whereas, the Canadian Entitlement, lature; and be it further whereby the U.S. and Canadian entities POM–201. A joint resolution adopted by the Resolved, That the Idaho congressional del- share the increased power production created Legislature of the State of Wyoming com- egation is urged to introduce and support by coordinated river operations, has proven memorating the one hundred fiftieth (150th) legislation to oppose any new federal na- to be imbalanced in favor of Canada; and anniversary of the signing of the 1868 Treaty tional monument designations or further Whereas, including ecosystem-based func- of Fort Bridger; to the Committee on Indian designations of wilderness in the State of tion in a modernized treaty could have ad- Affairs. Idaho without the approval of the United verse impacts on existing beneficial uses of ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 3 States Congress and the Idaho Legislature; the river and create greater uncertainty in a and be it further river system that is already heavily regu- Whereas, the Shoshone (eastern band) and Resolved, That any efforts to reach deci- lated; and the Bannock Tribes of Indians, presently sions regarding lands and resources of the Whereas, the Regional Recommendation known as the Eastern Shoshone and Sho- State of Idaho administered by federal agen- fails to recognize the substantial investment shone-Bannock Tribes, entered into a treaty cies or their designees be made through the in ecosystem-based function made by North- with the United States of America on July 3, lawful coordination process as required by west region hydropower producers and their 1868 at Fort Bridger, in the Utah Territory, the National Environmental Policy Act, the customers, including billions of dollars in- which is now present day Wyoming; and Federal Land Policy and Management Act, vested in fish passage and habitat efforts and Whereas, each of the Tribes and the United the National Forest Management Act, the the development and implementation of ro- States Government desiring for peace to con- 1982 Forest Service Planning Rule and other bust environmental mitigation plans; and tinue among and between themselves signed federal acts requiring coordination, rather Whereas, navigation should be protected, the 1868 Treaty of Fort Bridger to keep and than by unilateral administrative processes and adverse flows should not impact the maintain peace; and that exclude the residents of the State of transportation channel or lock system oper- Whereas, the legacy of the 1868 Treaty of Idaho; and be it further ations: Now, therefore, be it Fort Bridger has had an impact in numerous Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate Resolved By the members of the Second Reg- ways on the lives of Tribal members of both be, and she is hereby authorized and directed ular Session of the Sixty-fourth Idaho Legisla- Tribes from generation to generation since to forward a copy of this Memorial to the ture, the House of Representatives and the Sen- the signing; and President of the Senate and the Speaker of ate concurring therein, that we urge the U.S. Whereas, members of both the Eastern the House of Representatives of Congress, Department of State to support the fol- Shoshone and the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes and to the congressional delegation rep- lowing positions in negotiations with Canada have endured difficult burdens, sometimes resenting the State of Idaho in the Congress regarding any modification or future imple- navigating treacherous trails in their dedi- of the United States. mentation of the Columbia River Treaty: cated effort to preserve and pass along their

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:15 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.017 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2217 physical and cultural identity, while at the Whereas, in 1812, Robert Stuart was the Whereas, the United States military aban- same time making significant contributions first non-Indian person to visit the area later doned Fort Laramie in 1890, and all but one to the development of the Republic; and known as Fort Laramie and Alfred Jacob (1) of the fort’s sixty (60) structures were Whereas, the Eastern Shoshone and Sho- Miller became the first artist to record the sold at private auction and were used as pri- shone-Bannock Tribes plan a sesquicenten- area’s landscape in 1837; and vate dwellings, businesses, a dance hall and nial treaty reenactment ceremony at Fort Whereas, beginning in 1841, emigrants livestock shelters during the fort’s home- Bridger State Historic Site to honor the spir- bound for the West Coast stopped in Fort stead period of 1890 to 1937; and it of this area’s rich past and its First Na- Laramie as they traveled to what would Whereas, interested homesteaders, local tions, with celebrations open to the public later become the Oregon, California and residents and others recognized the histor- on July 3, 2018, including the reenactment Mormon Trails, with westward migration ical significance of Fort Laramie in the 1930s between the Tribes and military slated for peaking in the early 1850s at more than fifty and the State of Wyoming acquired Fort 10:00 a.m. and dances, feasts and games thousand (50,000) people traveling these Laramie in 1937, which eventually became a throughout the day; and trails annually; and unit of the national park system in 1938; and Whereas, Wyoming values and respects the Whereas, the United States military pur- Whereas, today, the Fort Laramie National historical and modern contributions of chased the Fort Laramie Post in 1849 and Historic Site is open to the public and res- American Indian people, as evidenced by the stationed soldiers to protect wagon trains, toration of many of the structures to their 2017 passage of the American Indian Edu- thereby establishing a social and economic historic appearances provides visitors with a cational Program Act, which will educate all center for Indians and non-Indians; and glimpse of a bygone era; and Wyoming students about American Indian Whereas, despite efforts to secure peace be- Whereas, the legacy of the 1868 Treaty of tribes of the region, to ensure the cultural tween Native Americans and the non-Indian Fort Laramie has had an impact in numer- heritage, history and contemporary con- emigrants and military personnel, conflicts ous ways on the lives of Tribal members of tributions of American Indians are ad- arose, culminating in wars between Plains Tribes party to the Treaty from generation dressed; and Tribes and the United States; and to generation since the signing; and Whereas, the Eastern Shoshone and the Whereas, the indigenous Nations of the Whereas, the indigenous Nations of the Shoshone-Bannock Nations and their people northern Great Plains region entered into northern Great Plains and their people have continue to be integral components of Amer- treaties with the United States of America endured difficult burdens, sometimes navi- ican society. Now, therefore be it in 1868 at Fort Laramie, in the Dakota Terri- gating treacherous trails in their dedicated Resolved, By the members of the Legislature tory, which is now present day Wyoming, effort to preserve and pass along their phys- of the State of Wyoming: and at other military posts in the region; ical and cultural identity, while at the same Section 1.—That the Wyoming legislature and time making significant contributions to the commemorates the one hundred fiftieth Whereas, these treaties are collectively re- development of the Republic; and (150th) anniversary of the signing of the 1868 garded as the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie Whereas, the indigenous Nations of the Treaty of Fort Bridger by educating native and include the following Tribes in treaty northern Great Plains and their people con- and nonnative people about the Treaty and with the United States: tinue to defend their inherent sovereignty by illustrating that the Eastern Shoshone Treaty with the Sioux and Arapaho and celebrate their cultural heritage; and Whereas, the anniversary of the signing of and Shoshone-Bannock Tribes continue to be Brule´ band of Sioux (presently ‘‘Brule the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie will be com- significant contributors to the success of Lakota’’: Lower Brule and Rosebud Reserva- memorated throughout 2018 at the Fort Lar- this country and its future with forward- tions) amie National Historic Site to honor the looking, positive relationships with the Ogallalah band of Sioux (presently ‘‘Oglala spirit of this area’s rich past and its First United States Government and each of the Lakota’’: Pine Ridge Reservation) several states. Minneconjou band of Sioux (presently Nations, with events from sunrise to sunset Section 2.—That the Wyoming legislature ‘‘Miniconjou Lakota’’: Cheyenne River Res- slated for April 28 and ending festivities on supports nationwide public education about ervation) November 6. Throughout the anniversary the heritage, history and contributions of Yanktonai band of Sioux (presently year, celebrations will commemorate indi- Native American tribes and urges the federal ‘‘Yanktonai Dakota’’ and ‘‘Yankton’’: Stand- vidual Tribe signing dates and may include government to uphold its federal trust re- ing Rock, Yankton and Crow Creek Reserva- traditional culture and history demonstra- sponsibilities. tions) tions; and Section 3.—That the Wyoming legislature Arapaho (presently ‘‘Southern Arapaho’’: Whereas, Wyoming values and respects the supports permanently displaying in Wyo- headquartered in Concho, Oklahoma, Chey- historical and modern contributions of ming the original 1868 Treaty of Fort enne-Arapaho Oklahoma Tribal Statistical American Indian people, as evidenced by the Bridger, which is presently on file with the Area) 2017 passage of the American Indian Edu- National Archives. Hunkpapa band of Sioux (presently cational Program Act, which will educate all Section 4.—That the Secretary of State of ‘‘Hunkpapa Lakota’’: Standing Rock Res- Wyoming students about American Indian Wyoming transmit copies of this resolution ervation) tribes of the region, to ensure the cultural to the President of the United States, the Blackfeet band of Sioux (also ‘‘Blackfoot,’’ heritage, history and contemporary con- Secretary of the Interior, the Speaker of the presently ‘‘Blackfeet Lakota’’: Cheyenne tributions of American Indians are ad- United States House of Representatives, the River and Standing Rock Reservations) dressed. Now, therefore, be it President Pro Tempore of the United States Cuthead band of Sioux (presently ‘‘Cuthead Resolved, By the members of the Legislature Senate and the majority and minority leader Dakota’’: Standing Rock Reservation) of the State of Wyoming: and whip of each house, the Wyoming Con- Two Kettle band of Sioux (presently ‘‘Two Section 1.—That the Wyoming legislature gressional Delegation, each state governor Kettle Lakota’’: Cheyenne River Reserva- commemorates the one hundred fiftieth and the business councils of the Eastern Sho- tion) (150th) anniversary of the signing of the 1868 shone and Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. Sans Arc band of Sioux (presently ‘‘Sans Treaty of Fort Laramie by educating people Arc Lakota’’: Cheyenne River Reservation) about the Treaty and history of this nation- POM–202. A joint resolution adopted by the Santee band of Sioux (presently ‘‘Santee ally significant place. Legislature of the State of Wyoming com- Dakota’’: Santee Sioux, Flandreau, Crow Section 2.—That the Wyoming legislature memorating the one hundred fiftieth (150th) Creek and Lake Traverse Reservations and supports nationwide public education about anniversary of the signing of the 1868 Treaty the Upper Sioux, Lower Sioux, Prairie Island the heritage, history and contributions of of Fort Laramie; to the Committee on Indian and Shakopee Mdewakanton Indian Commu- Native American tribes and urges the federal Affairs. nities) government to uphold its federal trust re- sponsibilities. Treaty with the Crow (Crow Reservation) ENROLLED JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 1 Section 3.—That the Wyoming legislature Whereas, the area in and around what is Treaty with the Northern Cheyenne and supports permanently displaying in Wyo- presently known as Fort Laramie, Wyoming Northern Arapaho (Northern Cheyenne and ming the original treaties that comprise the has served like a grand meeting hall, de- Wind River Reservations, respectively); and 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie, which are pres- scribed by author Starley Talbott as a place Whereas, each of the Tribes and the United ently on file with the National Archives. ‘‘where the mountains meet the plains; States Government desiring for peace, the Section 4.—That the Secretary of State of where two rivers converge; where Native parties signed the 1868 Treaty of Fort Lar- Wyoming transmit copies of this resolution American tribes gathered; where fur trappers amie to cease wars among the parties and to the President of the United States, the and traders rendezvoused; where emigrants bring about and maintain peace; and Secretary of the Interior, the Speaker of the met for rest and supplies; where soldiers Whereas, the 1868 Treaty of Fort Laramie United States House of Representatives, the came and went; where homesteaders linked did not end conflict, as terms of the Treaty President Pro Tempore of the United States the past to the present; and where today’s were broken resulting from the discovery of Senate and the majority and minority leader travelers come to partake in Fort Laramie’s gold in the Black Hills, the area of Fort Lar- and whip of each house, the Wyoming Con- fascinating history;’’ and amie remained a supply and communications gressional Delegation, each state governor Whereas, Fort Laramie and its surrounding center for the United States military’s ef- and the business council of each tribal na- area had been occupied by tribes of the Great forts to confine Native people onto reserva- tion that signed the 1868 Treaty of Fort Lar- Plains throughout the course of history; and tions; and amie.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:15 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.018 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2218 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 POM–203. A joint memorial adopted by the delays that are encountered when dealing By Mr. UDALL (for himself and Mr. Legislature of the State of Idaho requesting with livestock and other agriculture com- INHOFE): a permanent exemption from the U.S. De- modities; and S. 2684. A bill to establish a Federal stu- partment of Transportation—Federal Motor Whereas, in September 2017, seven national dent loan restructured repayment schedule Carrier Safety Administration electronic agriculture commodity organizations and for certain borrowers who are agricultural logging devices mandate granted by which- other agriculture-related organizations re- producers; to the Committee on Health, Edu- ever means appropriate for livestock and ag- quested a waiver from the rule, which was cation, Labor, and Pensions. riculture commodity transporters; to the granted and will be in effect until March 18, By Mr. UDALL (for himself and Mr. Committee on Commerce, Science, and 2018. Section 132, Exemption from Require- INHOFE): Transportation. ment for Electronic Logging Device, is con- S. 2685. A bill to modify certain require- SENATE JOINT MEMORIAL NO. 104 tained in the FY18 federal Transportation, ments for farm ownership loan eligibility; to Whereas, the 2012 federal transportation Housing and Urban Development (THUD) bill the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, bill, MAP–21, mandated electronic logging funding to implement the ELD mandate in and Forestry. devices (ELD) in commercial trucks, which FY18, and this language was signed by all By Mr. PERDUE: were to be finalized by rule in 2015, with an members of Idaho’ s congressional delega- S. 2686. A bill to require Federal agencies implementation date of December 18, 2017, in tion, and legislation was introduced in 2017 to issue appropriate identification for the trucks of model year 2000 and newer; and in the United States House of Representa- carrying of concealed firearms by qualified Whereas, because of the nature of the com- tives to make a livestock/agriculture com- law enforcement officers and qualified re- modities hauled and normal industry sched- modity exemption permanent; and tired law enforcement officers; to the Com- uling uncertainty, livestock and agriculture Whereas, the federal mandate and rule is mittee on the Judiciary. commodity haulers requested exemption difficult to implement, increases cost, lowers By Mr. CRUZ: from this mandated transition from hand- efficiency, imposes an unfunded mandate, S. 2687. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- written logbooks to the electronic log, and creates economic and regulatory hardship enue Code of 1986 to make permanent the in- the United States Department of Transpor- for small business and does not consider the dividual tax provisions of the tax reform law, tation (USDOT) and the Federal Motor Car- special needs of certain segments of the and for other purposes; to the Committee on rier Safety Administration (FMCSA) origi- trucking industry: Now, therefore, be it Finance. nally ignored the request and agriculture Resolved, By the members of the Second Reg- By Mr. CRUZ (for himself and Mr. commodity haulers; and ular Session of the Sixty-fourth Idaho Legisla- INHOFE): Whereas, the federal mandate and rule de- ture, the Senate and the House of Representa- S. 2688. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- creases efficiency, increases business expense tives concurring therein, that we request a enue Code of 1986 to provide for the indexing and does little or nothing to improve safety permanent exemption from the USDOT– of certain assets for purposes of determining in this segment of the trucking industry, and FMCSA ELD mandate granted by whichever gain or loss; to the Committee on Finance. USDOT–FMCSA has not considered the spe- means appropriate for livestock and agri- By Mr. CORNYN (for himself, Mr. cial circumstances surrounding the trans- culture commodity transporters; and be it HELLER, and Mr. ROBERTS): port of livestock, fish and insects, as these further S. 2689. A bill to provide a taxpayer bill of are the most perishable and fragile of all Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate rights for small businesses; to the Com- commodities and must be transported in the be, and she is hereby authorized and directed mittee on Finance. most efficient, timely and expedient manner to forward a copy of this Memorial to the By Mr. RUBIO (for himself, Ms. STABE- as possible, and conformity with the ELD President of the Senate and the Speaker of NOW, Mr. CORNYN, and Mr. NELSON): mandate and existing hours of services rule the House of Representatives of Congress, S. 2690. A bill to amend title XVIII of the would result in delays off-loading and reload- and to the congressional delegation rep- Social Security Act to permit review of cer- ing of livestock and even the addition of a resenting the State of Idaho in the Congress tain Medicare payment determinations for second driver on short hauls; and of the United States, the United States De- disproportionate share hospitals, and for Whereas, infrastructure for off-loading and partment of Transportation and the Federal other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- holding of livestock do not readily exist and, Motor Carrier Safety Administration. nance. if it did, extra handling of cargo would result By Mr. SANDERS (for himself and Ms. in added stress, weight loss, additional ex- POM–204. A resolution approved by the HARRIS): pense and exposure to additional disease and Mayor and City Council of the City of Rice S. 2691. A bill to hold pharmaceutical com- biohazard, with no positive benefit to the Lake, Wisconsin, supporting the passage of panies accountable for illegal marketing and animals; and an amendment to the United States Con- distribution of opioid products and for their Whereas, heavy machinery service vehicles stitution stating: only human beings are en- role in creating and exacerbating the opioid often drive long distances to reach a job site dowed with Constitutional rights-not cor- epidemic in the United States; to the Com- and remain at the location long enough to porations, unions, non-profits or other artifi- mittee on Finance. exceed the 14-hour service day thereby re- cial entities; and money is not speech, and f quiring either an additional driver or an therefore regulating political contributions overnight stay near the job site and subse- and spending is not equivalent to limiting SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND quently decreasing efficiency and increasing political speech; to the Committee on the SENATE RESOLUTIONS Judiciary. business expense; and The following concurrent resolutions Whereas, highway safety is also a primary f consideration, and livestock transporters and Senate resolutions were read, and were involved in a statistically insignificant INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND referred (or acted upon), as indicated: number of accidents (0.004%) according to JOINT RESOLUTIONS By Mr. MANCHIN: the ‘‘Large Truck Crash Causation Study’’ The following bills and joint resolu- S. Res. 470. A resolution expressing the published by the FMCSA and the National tions were introduced, read the first sense of the Senate that electricity markets Highway Safety Institute and 0.7% of fatal do not appropriately value the reliability accidents per the ‘‘Trucks Involved in Fatal and second times by unanimous con- and resilience attributes of baseload power Accidents Factbook 2005’’ published by the sent, and referred as indicated: generation serving the bulk power system; to Transportation Research Institute; and By Mr. MANCHIN: the Committee on Energy and Natural Re- Whereas, mandated ELDs engage when the S. 2681. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- sources. truck’s motor is started. The devices provide enue Code of 1986 to allow a credit against By Mr. BURR (for himself and Mr. the operator no discretion in determining tax for coal-powered electric generation MANCHIN): ‘‘on-duty’’ and ‘‘off-duty’’ time. Large, over- units; to the Committee on Finance. S. Res. 471. A resolution designating March the-road commercial truck fleets support the By Mr. MURPHY (for himself and Mr. 29, 2018, as ‘‘Vietnam Veterans Day’’; consid- ELD mandate because they are better able to UDALL): ered and agreed to. absorb related costs and are subject to well- S. 2682. A bill to establish a student loan By Mr. BURR (for himself, Mr. defined schedules; and forgiveness plan for certain borrowers who MANCHIN, Mr. INHOFE, and Mr. HELL- Whereas, paper logs allow the driver this are employed at a qualified farm or ranch; to ER): determination. Because many livestock and the Committee on Health, Education, Labor, S. Res. 472. A resolution designating April agriculture commodity haulers are small and Pensions. 5, 2018, as ‘‘Gold Star Wives Day’’; considered and independently owned businesses, manda- By Mr. CRAPO (for himself and Mr. and agreed to. tory ELD use will result in increased live- BROWN): f stock handling, more downtime, increased S. 2683. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- expenses, and lower net revenues to pro- enue Code of 1986 to impose a mileage-based ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS ducers and trucking firms and small truck- user fee for mobile mounted concrete boom ing companies forced out of business. The pumps in lieu of the tax on taxable fuels, and S. 66 ELD mandate is impractical because for other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- At the request of Mr. HELLER, the USDOT–FMCSA did not consider normal nance. name of the Senator from Delaware

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:15 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.025 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2219 (Mr. COONS) was added as a cosponsor (Mr. WICKER) was added as a cosponsor S. RES. 459 of S. 66, a bill to amend title 10, United of S. 2540, a bill to provide predict- At the request of Ms. HARRIS, the States Code, to permit certain retired ability and certainty in the tax law, names of the Senator from Massachu- members of the uniformed services who create jobs, and encourage investment. setts (Mr. MARKEY) and the Senator have a service-connected disability to S. 2555 from Ohio (Mr. BROWN) were added as receive both disability compensation At the request of Mrs. GILLIBRAND, cosponsors of S. Res. 459, a resolution from the Department of Veterans Af- the name of the Senator from Massa- recognizing ‘‘Black Maternal Health fairs for their disability and either re- chusetts (Ms. WARREN) was added as a Week’’ to bring national attention to tired pay by reason of their years of cosponsor of S. 2555, a bill to amend the the maternal health care crisis in the military service or Combat-Related Agricultural Act of 2014 to establish Black community and the importance Special Compensation, and for other the Dairy Farm Sustainability Price of reducing the rate of maternal mor- purposes. Loss Coverage Program, and for other tality and morbidity among Black S. 515 purposes. women. At the request of Mr. CASEY, the S. 2578 S. RES. 460 name of the Senator from Montana At the request of Mr. SCHATZ, the At the request of Ms. BALDWIN, the (Mr. TESTER) was added as a cosponsor name of the Senator from Minnesota names of the Senator from Connecticut of S. 515, a bill to require the Secretary (Ms. SMITH) was added as a cosponsor (Mr. BLUMENTHAL) and the Senator of Labor to maintain a publicly avail- of S. 2578, a bill to amend title 13, from New York (Mrs. GILLIBRAND) were able list of all employers that relocate United States Code, to require the Sec- added as cosponsors of S. Res. 460, a a call center overseas, to make such retary of Commerce to provide ad- resolution condemning Boko Haram companies ineligible for Federal grants vanced notice to Congress before and calling on the Governments of the or guaranteed loans, and to require dis- changing any questions on the decen- United States of America and Nigeria closure of the physical location of busi- nial census, and for other purposes. to swiftly implement measures to de- ness agents engaging in customer serv- S. 2639 feat the terrorist organization. ice communications, and for other pur- At the request of Mr. MARKEY, the S. RES. 463 poses. name of the Senator from Minnesota At the request of Mr. DURBIN, his S. 1719 (Ms. SMITH) was added as a cosponsor name was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the of S. 2639, a bill to require the Federal Res. 463, a resolution authorizing a name of the Senator from Montana Trade Commission to establish privacy Senator to bring a young son or daugh- (Mr. TESTER) was added as a cosponsor protections for customers of online ter of the Senator onto the floor of the of S. 1719, a bill to eliminate duties on edge providers, and for other purposes. Senate during votes. imports of recreational performance S. 2642 f outerwear, to establish the Sustainable At the request of Mr. KAINE, the Textile and Apparel Research Fund, name of the Senator from West Vir- STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED and for other purposes. ginia (Mr. MANCHIN) was added as a co- BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS S. 1989 sponsor of S. 2642, a bill to require the By Mr. CORNYN (for himself, Mr. At the request of Ms. KLOBUCHAR, the Secretary of Labor, in consultation HELLER, and Mr. ROBERTS): name of the Senator from Minnesota with the Secretary of Health and S. 2689. A bill to provide a taxpayer (Ms. SMITH) was added as a cosponsor Human Services, to establish a pilot bill of rights for small businesses; to of S. 1989, a bill to enhance trans- program for Jobs Plus Recovery pro- the Committee on Finance. parency and accountability for online grams, and for other purposes. Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask political advertisements by requiring S. 2663 unanimous consent that the text of the those who purchase and publish such At the request of Mr. BARRASSO, the bill be printed in the RECORD. ads to disclose information about the name of the Senator from Arkansas There being no objection, the text of advertisements to the public, and for (Mr. BOOZMAN) was added as a cospon- the bill was ordered to be printed in other purposes. sor of S. 2663, a bill to modify and im- the RECORD, as follows: S. 2047 prove provisions relating to environ- S. 2689 mental requirements for agriculture At the request of Mr. MURPHY, the Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- and agricultural producers, and for name of the Senator from Hawaii (Ms. resentatives of the United States of America in other purposes. Congress assembled, HIRONO) was added as a cosponsor of S. 2047, a bill to restrict the use of funds S. 2680 SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. for kinetic military operations in At the request of Mr. ALEXANDER, the (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Small Business Taxpayer Bill of Rights North Korea. names of the Senator from Georgia (Mr. ISAKSON), the Senator from Lou- Act of 2018’’. S. 2124 (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- isiana (Mr. CASSIDY) and the Senator At the request of Mr. LEAHY, the tents of this Act is as follows: from Nevada (Mr. HELLER) were added name of the Senator from Minnesota as cosponsors of S. 2680, a bill to ad- Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. Sec. 2. Modification of standards for award- (Ms. SMITH) was added as a cosponsor dress the opioid crisis. of S. 2124, a bill to ensure the privacy ing of costs and certain fees. At the request of Mrs. MURRAY, the Sec. 3. Civil damages allowed for reckless or and security of sensitive personal in- names of the Senator from West Vir- formation, to prevent and mitigate intentional disregard of inter- ginia (Mr. MANCHIN), the Senator from nal revenue laws. identity theft, to provide notice of se- Wisconsin (Ms. BALDWIN) and the Sen- Sec. 4. Modifications relating to certain of- curity breaches involving sensitive per- ator from Virginia (Mr. KAINE) were fenses by officers and employ- sonal information, and to enhance law added as cosponsors of S. 2680, supra. ees in connection with revenue enforcement assistance and for other laws. S.J. RES. 57 protections against security breaches, Sec. 5. Modifications relating to civil dam- At the request of Mr. MORAN, the ages for unauthorized inspec- fraudulent access, and misuse of per- names of the Senator from Texas (Mr. sonal information. tion or disclosure of returns CRUZ) and the Senator from South Da- and return information. S. 2271 kota (Mr. THUNE) were added as co- Sec. 6. Ban on ex parte discussions. At the request of Mr. REED, the name sponsors of S.J. Res. 57, a joint resolu- Sec. 7. Right to independent conference. of the Senator from Michigan (Ms. tion providing for congressional dis- Sec. 8. Alternative dispute resolution proce- STABENOW) was added as a cosponsor of approval under chapter 8 of title 5, dures. S. 2271, a bill to reauthorize the Mu- United States Code, of the rule sub- Sec. 9. Increase in monetary penalties for seum and Library Services Act. certain unauthorized disclo- mitted by Bureau of Consumer Finan- sures of information. S. 2540 cial Protection relating to ‘‘Indirect Sec. 10. Ban on raising new issues on appeal. At the request of Ms. STABENOW, the Auto Lending and Compliance with the Sec. 11. Limitation on enforcement of liens name of the Senator from Mississippi Equal Credit Opportunity Act’’. against principal residences.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:56 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0655 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.022 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2220 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 Sec. 12. Additional provisions relating to year, determined by substituting ‘calendar structuring and Reform Act of 1998, the In- mandatory termination for year 2017’ for ‘calendar year 2016’ in subpara- ternal Revenue Service shall prohibit any ex misconduct. graph (A)(ii) thereof. parte communications between officers in Sec. 13. Review by the Treasury Inspector If any amount as increased under the pre- the Internal Revenue Service Office of Ap- General for Tax Administra- ceding sentence is not a multiple of $500, peals and other Internal Revenue Service tion. such amount shall be rounded to the next employees with respect to any matter pend- Sec. 14. Deduction for expenses relating to lowest multiple of $500.’’. ing before such officers. certain audits. (b) EXTENSION OF TIME TO BRING ACTION.— (b) TERMINATION OF EMPLOYMENT FOR MIS- Sec. 15. Term limit for National Taxpayer Section 7433(d)(3) of the Internal Revenue CONDUCT.—Subject to subsection (c), the Advocate. Code of 1986 is amended by striking ‘‘2 years’’ Commissioner of Internal Revenue shall ter- Sec. 16. Release of IRS levy due to economic and inserting ‘‘5 years’’. minate the employment of any employee of hardship for business taxpayers. the Internal Revenue Service if there is a Sec. 17. Repeal of partial payment require- (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments made by this section shall apply to actions final administrative or judicial determina- ment on submissions of offers- tion that such employee committed any act in-compromise. of employees of the Internal Revenue Service after the date of the enactment of this Act. or omission prohibited under subsection (a) SEC. 2. MODIFICATION OF STANDARDS FOR SEC. 4. MODIFICATIONS RELATING TO CERTAIN in the performance of the employee’s official AWARDING OF COSTS AND CERTAIN duties. Such termination shall be a removal FEES. OFFENSES BY OFFICERS AND EM- PLOYEES IN CONNECTION WITH for cause on charges of misconduct. (a) SMALL BUSINESSES ELIGIBLE WITHOUT REVENUE LAWS. (c) DETERMINATION OF COMMISSIONER.— REGARD TO NET WORTH.—Subparagraph (D) (a) INCREASE IN PENALTY.—Section 7214 of N GENERAL of section 7430(c)(4) of the Internal Revenue (1) I .—The Commissioner of In- the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amend- Code of 1986 is amended by striking ‘‘and’’ at ternal Revenue may take a personnel action ed— the end of clause (i)(II), by striking the pe- other than termination for an act prohibited (1) by striking ‘‘$10,000’’ in subsection (a) riod at the end of clause (ii) and inserting ‘‘, under subsection (a). and inserting ‘‘$25,000’’, and ISCRETION and’’, and by adding at the end the following (2) D .—The exercise of authority (2) by striking ‘‘$5,000’’ in subsection (b) new clause: under paragraph (1) shall be at the sole dis- and inserting ‘‘$10,000’’. ‘‘(iii) in the case of an eligible small busi- cretion of the Commissioner of Internal Rev- (b) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—Section ness, the net worth limitation in clause (ii) enue and may not be delegated to any other 7214 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as of such section shall not apply.’’. officer. At the sole discretion of the Commis- amended by subsection (a), is amended by re- (b) ELIGIBLE SMALL BUSINESS.—Paragraph sioner of Internal Revenue, such Commis- (4) of section 7430(c) of the Internal Revenue designating subsection (c) as subsection (d) sioner may establish a procedure which will Code of 1986 is amended by adding at the end and by inserting after subsection (b) the fol- be used to determine whether an individual the following new subparagraph: lowing new subsection: should be referred to the Commissioner of In- ‘‘(c) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—In the ‘‘(F) ELIGIBLE SMALL BUSINESS.— ternal Revenue for a determination by the case of any calendar year after 2018, the ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of subpara- Commissioner under paragraph (1). graph (D)(iii), the term ‘eligible small busi- $25,000 amount in subsection (a) and the (3) NO APPEAL.—Any determination of the ness’ means, with respect to any proceeding $10,000 amount in subsection (b) shall each be Commissioner of Internal Revenue under commenced in a taxable year— increased by an amount equal to— this subsection may not be appealed in any ‘‘(I) a corporation the stock of which is not ‘‘(1) such dollar amount, multiplied by administrative or judicial proceeding. publicly traded, ‘‘(2) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- (d) TIGTA REPORTING OF TERMINATION OR ‘‘(II) a partnership, or mined under section 1(f)(3) for such calendar MITIGATION.—Section 7803(d)(1)(E) of the In- ‘‘(III) a sole proprietorship, year, determined by substituting ‘calendar ternal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by if the average annual gross receipts of such year 2017’ for ‘calendar year 2016’ in subpara- inserting ‘‘or section 6 of the Small Business corporation, partnership, or sole proprietor- graph (A)(ii) thereof. Taxpayer Bill of Rights Act of 2018’’ after ship for the 3-taxable-year period preceding If any amount as increased under the pre- ‘‘1998’’. such taxable year does not exceed $50,000,000. ceding sentence is not a multiple of $100, SEC. 7. RIGHT TO INDEPENDENT CONFERENCE. For purposes of applying the test under the such amount shall be rounded to the next Section 1001 of the Internal Revenue Serv- preceding sentence, rules similar to the rules lowest multiple of $100.’’. ice Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998 is of paragraphs (2) and (3) of section 448(c) (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments amended by redesignating subsection (c) as shall apply. made by this section shall take effect on the subsection (d) and by inserting after sub- ‘‘(ii) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—In the date of the enactment of this Act. section (b) the following new subsection: case of any calendar year after 2018, the SEC. 5. MODIFICATIONS RELATING TO CIVIL ‘‘(c) RIGHT TO INDEPENDENT CONFERENCE.— $50,000,000 amount in clause (i) shall be in- DAMAGES FOR UNAUTHORIZED IN- Under the organization plan of the Internal creased by an amount equal to— SPECTION OR DISCLOSURE OF RE- Revenue Service, a taxpayer shall have the ‘‘(I) such dollar amount, multiplied by TURNS AND RETURN INFORMATION. right to a conference with the Internal Rev- ‘‘(II) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- (a) INCREASE IN AMOUNT OF DAMAGES.—Sub- enue Service Office of Appeals which does mined under section 1(f)(3) for such calendar paragraph (A) of section 7431(c)(1) of the In- not include personnel from the Office of year, determined by substituting ‘calendar ternal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by Chief Counsel for the Internal Revenue Serv- year 2017’ for ‘calendar year 2016’ in subpara- striking ‘‘$1,000’’ and inserting ‘‘$10,000’’. ice or the compliance functions of the Inter- graph (A)(ii) thereof. (b) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—Section nal Revenue Service unless the taxpayer spe- 7431 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is If any amount as increased under the pre- cifically consents to the participation of amended by adding at the end the following such personnel.’’. ceding sentence is not a multiple of $500, new subsection: such amount shall be rounded to the next SEC. 8. ALTERNATIVE DISPUTE RESOLUTION ‘‘(i) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—In the PROCEDURES. lowest multiple of $500..’’. case of any calendar year after 2018, the (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7123 of the Inter- (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments $10,000 amount in subsection (c)(1)(A) shall made by this section shall apply to pro- nal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by add- be increased by an amount equal to— ing at the end the following new subsection: ceedings commenced after the date of the en- ‘‘(1) such dollar amount, multiplied by ‘‘(d) AVAILABILITY OF DISPUTE RESOLU- actment of this Act. ‘‘(2) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- TIONS.— SEC. 3. CIVIL DAMAGES ALLOWED FOR RECK- mined under section 1(f)(3) for such calendar ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The procedures pre- LESS OR INTENTIONAL DISREGARD year, determined by substituting ‘calendar OF INTERNAL REVENUE LAWS. scribed under subsection (b)(1) and the pilot year 2017’ for ‘calendar year 2016’ in subpara- (a) INCREASE IN AMOUNT OF DAMAGES.— program established under subsection (b)(2) graph (A)(ii) thereof. (1) IN GENERAL.—Section 7433(b) of the In- shall provide that a taxpayer may request ternal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by If any amount as increased under the pre- mediation or arbitration in any case unless striking ‘‘$1,000,000 ($100,000, in the case of ceding sentence is not a multiple of $100, the Secretary has specifically excluded the negligence)’’ and inserting ‘‘$5,000,000 such amount shall be rounded to the next type of issue involved in such case or the ($500,000, in the case of negligence)’’. lowest multiple of $100.’’. class of cases to which such case belongs as (2) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—Section (c) PERIOD FOR BRINGING ACTION.—Sub- not appropriate for resolution under such 7433 of such Code is amended by adding at section (d) of section 7431 of the Internal subsection. The Secretary shall make any the end the following new subsection: Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by striking determination that excludes a type of issue ‘‘(f) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—In the ‘‘2 years’’ and inserting ‘‘5 years’’. or a class of cases public within 5 working case of any calendar year after 2018, the (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment days and provide an explanation for each de- $5,000,000 and $500,000 amounts in subsection made by this section shall apply to inspec- termination. (b) shall each be increased by an amount tions and disclosure occurring on and after ‘‘(2) INDEPENDENT MEDIATORS.— equal to— the date of the enactment of this Act. ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The procedures pre- ‘‘(1) such dollar amount, multiplied by SEC. 6. BAN ON EX PARTE DISCUSSIONS. scribed under subsection (b)(1) shall provide ‘‘(2) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- (a) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding section the taxpayer an opportunity to elect to have mined under section 1(f)(3) for such calendar 1001(a)(4) of the Internal Revenue Service Re- the mediation conducted by an independent,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:56 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.027 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2221 neutral individual not employed by the In- ‘‘(2) Any deficiency in tax which was not end the following new sentence: ‘‘Notwith- ternal Revenue Service Office of Appeals. included in the initial determination. standing the preceding sentence, if the Com- ‘‘(B) COST AND SELECTION.— ‘‘(3) Any theory or justification for a tax missioner of Internal Revenue takes a per- ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—Any taxpayer making an deficiency which was not considered in the sonnel action other than termination for an election under subparagraph (A) shall be re- initial determination. act or omission described in subsection (b), quired— ‘‘(c) NO INFERENCE WITH RESPECT TO ISSUES the Commissioner shall place the employee ‘‘(I) to share the costs of such independent RAISED BY TAXPAYERS.—Nothing in this sec- on unpaid administrative leave for a period mediator equally with the Internal Revenue tion shall be construed to provide any limi- of not less than 90 days.’’. Service Office of Appeals, and tation in addition to any limitations in ef- (c) LIMITATION ON ALTERNATIVE PUNISH- ‘‘(II) to limit the selection of the mediator fect on the date of the enactment of this sec- MENT.—Paragraph (1) of section 1203(c) of the to a roster of recognized national or local tion on the right of a taxpayer to raise an Internal Revenue Service Restructuring and neutral mediators. issue, theory, or justification on an appeal Reform Act of 1998 (26 U.S.C. 7804 note) is ‘‘(ii) EXCEPTION.—Clause (i)(I) shall not from a determination initially made by the amended by striking ‘‘The Commissioner’’ apply to any taxpayer who is an individual Internal Revenue Service that was not with- and inserting ‘‘Except in the case of an act or who was a small business in the preceding in the scope of the initial determination.’’. or omission described in subsection (b)(3)(A), calendar year if such taxpayer had an ad- (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of the Commissioner’’. justed gross income that did not exceed 250 sections for chapter 77 of the Internal Rev- SEC. 13. REVIEW BY THE TREASURY INSPECTOR percent of the poverty level, as determined enue Code of 1986 is amended by adding at GENERAL FOR TAX ADMINISTRA- in accordance with criteria established by the end the following new item: TION. the Director of the Office of Management ‘‘Sec. 7529. Prohibition on Internal Revenue (a) REVIEW.—Subsection (k)(1) of section and Budget, in the taxable year preceding Service raising new issues in an 8D of the Inspector General Act of 1978 (5 the request. internal appeal.’’. U.S.C. App.) is amended— ‘‘(iii) SMALL BUSINESS.—For purposes of (1) in subparagraph (C), by striking ‘‘and’’ (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments clause (ii), the term ‘small business’ has the at the end, meaning given such term under section made by this section shall apply to matters filed or pending with the Internal Revenue (2) by redesignating subparagraph (D) as 41(b)(3)(D)(iii). subparagraph (E), ‘‘(3) AVAILABILITY OF PROCESS.—The proce- Service Office of Appeals on or after the date of the enactment of this Act. (3) by inserting after subparagraph (C) the dures prescribed under subsection (b)(1) and following new subparagraph: the pilot program established under sub- SEC. 11. LIMITATION ON ENFORCEMENT OF ‘‘(D) shall— LIENS AGAINST PRINCIPAL RESI- section (b)(2) shall provide the opportunity ‘‘(i) review any criteria employed by the to elect mediation or arbitration at the time DENCES. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7403(a) of the In- Internal Revenue Service to select tax re- when the case is first filed with the Office of turns (including applications for recognition Appeals and at any time before deliberations ternal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended— (1) by striking ‘‘In any case’’ and inserting of tax-exempt status) for examination or in the appeal commence.’’. audit, assessment or collection of defi- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment the following: ciencies, criminal investigation or referral, made by this section shall take effect on the ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In any case’’, and date of the enactment of this Act. (2) by adding at the end the following new refunds for amounts paid, or any heightened scrutiny or review in order to determine SEC. 9. INCREASE IN MONETARY PENALTIES FOR paragraph: CERTAIN UNAUTHORIZED DISCLO- ‘‘(2) LIMITATION WITH RESPECT TO PRINCIPAL whether the criteria discriminates against SURES OF INFORMATION. RESIDENCE.— taxpayers on the basis of race, religion, or (a) IN GENERAL.—Paragraphs (1), (2), (3), ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—Paragraph (1) shall not political ideology; and and (4) of section 7213(a) of the Internal Rev- apply to any property used as the principal ‘‘(ii) consult with the Internal Revenue enue Code of 1986 are each amended by strik- residence of the taxpayer (within the mean- Service on recommended amendments to ing ‘‘$5,000’’ and inserting ‘‘$10,000’’. ing of section 121) unless the Secretary of the such criteria in order to eliminate any dis- (b) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—Sub- Treasury makes a written determination crimination identified pursuant to the re- section (a) of section 7213 of the Internal that— view described in clause (i); and’’, and Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding ‘‘(i) all other property of the taxpayer, if (4) in subparagraph (E), as so redesignated, at the end the following new paragraph: sold, is insufficient to pay the tax or dis- by striking ‘‘and (C)’’ and inserting ‘‘(C), and ‘‘(6) ADJUSTMENT FOR INFLATION.—In the charge the liability, and (D)’’. case of any calendar year after 2018, the ‘‘(ii) such action will not create an eco- (b) SEMIANNUAL REPORT.—Subsection (g) of $10,000 amounts in paragraphs (1), (2), (3), and nomic hardship for the taxpayer. section 8D of the Inspector General Act of (4) shall each be increased by an amount ‘‘(B) DELEGATION.—For purposes of this 1978 (5 U.S.C. App.) is amended by adding at equal to— paragraph, the Secretary of the Treasury the end the following new paragraph: ‘‘(A) such dollar amount, multiplied by may not delegate any responsibilities under ‘‘(3) Any semiannual report made by the ‘‘(B) the cost-of-living adjustment deter- subparagraph (A) to any person other than— Treasury Inspector General for Tax Adminis- mined under section 1(f)(3) for such calendar ‘‘(i) the Commissioner of Internal Revenue, tration that is required pursuant to section year, determined by substituting ‘calendar or 5(a) shall include— year 2017’ for ‘calendar year 2016’ in subpara- ‘‘(ii) a district director or assistant district ‘‘(A) a statement affirming that the Treas- graph (A)(ii) thereof. director of the Internal Revenue Service.’’. ury Inspector General for Tax Administra- If any amount as increased under the pre- (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments tion has reviewed the criteria described in ceding sentence is not a multiple of $100, made by this section shall apply to actions subsection (k)(1)(D) and consulted with the such amount shall be rounded to the next filed after the date of the enactment of this Internal Revenue Service regarding such cri- lowest multiple of $100.’’. Act. teria; and (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ‘‘(B) a description and explanation of any SEC. 12. ADDITIONAL PROVISIONS RELATING TO made by this section shall apply to disclo- MANDATORY TERMINATION FOR such criteria that was identified as discrimi- sures made after the date of the enactment MISCONDUCT. natory by the Treasury Inspector General for of this Act. (a) TERMINATION OF UNEMPLOYMENT FOR IN- Tax Administration.’’. SEC. 10. BAN ON RAISING NEW ISSUES ON AP- APPROPRIATE REVIEW OF TAX-EXEMPT STA- SEC. 14. DEDUCTION FOR EXPENSES RELATING PEAL. TUS.—Section 1203(b) of the Internal Revenue TO CERTAIN AUDITS. (a) IN GENERAL.—Chapter 77 of the Internal Service Restructuring and Reform Act of (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (a) of section Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by adding 1998 (26 U.S.C. 7804 note) is amended by strik- 62 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is at the end the following new section: ing ‘‘and’’ at the end of paragraph (9), by amended by adding at the end the following ‘‘SEC. 7529. PROHIBITION ON INTERNAL REV- striking the period at the end of paragraph new paragraph: ENUE SERVICE RAISING NEW ISSUES ‘‘(22) EXPENSES RELATING TO CERTAIN AU- IN AN INTERNAL APPEAL. (10) and inserting ‘‘; and’’, and by adding at DITS.—The deduction allowed by section ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—In reviewing an appeal the end the following new paragraph: of any determination initially made by the ‘‘(11) in the case of any review of an appli- 224.’’. Internal Revenue Service, the Internal Rev- cation for tax-exempt status by an organiza- (b) DEDUCTION FOR EXPENSES RELATING TO enue Service Office of Appeals may not con- tion described in section 501(c) of the Inter- CERTAIN AUDITS.—Part VII of subchapter B sider or decide any issue that is not within nal Revenue Code of 1986, developing or using of chapter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of the scope of the initial determination. any methodology that applies dispropor- 1986 is amended by redesignating section 224 ‘‘(b) CERTAIN ISSUES DEEMED OUTSIDE OF tionate scrutiny to any applicant based on as section 225 and by inserting after section SCOPE OF DETERMINATION.—For purposes of the ideology expressed in the name or pur- 223 the following new section: subsection (a), the following matters shall be pose of the organization.’’. ‘‘SEC. 224. EXPENSES RELATING TO CERTAIN AU- considered to be not within the scope of a de- (b) MANDATORY UNPAID ADMINISTRATIVE DITS. termination: LEAVE FOR MISCONDUCT.—Paragraph (1) of ‘‘(a) ALLOWANCE OF DEDUCTION.—In the ‘‘(1) Any issue that was not raised in a no- section 1203(c) of the Internal Revenue Serv- case of an individual, there shall be allowed tice of deficiency or an examiner’s report ice Restructuring and Reform Act of 1998 (26 as a deduction for the taxable year an which is the subject of the appeal. U.S.C. 7804 note) is amended by adding at the amount equal to so much of the qualified

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:56 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.027 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2222 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 NRP expenses paid or incurred during the SEC. 17. REPEAL OF PARTIAL PAYMENT RE- mission should take action to ensure that taxable year as does not exceed $5,000. QUIREMENT ON SUBMISSIONS OF the electricity markets fully recognize the ‘‘(b) QUALIFIED NRP EXPENSES.—For pur- OFFERS-IN-COMPROMISE. reliability and resilience benefits of coal- poses of this section, the term ‘qualified (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 7122 of the Inter- fired and nuclear baseload power generation NRP expenses’ means amounts which but for nal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by resources serving the bulk power system. striking subsection (c) and by redesignating subsection (d) would be allowed as a deduc- f tion under section 162 or 212(3) in connection subsections (d), (e), (f), and (g) as subsections with an audit of the taxpayer’s return of the (c), (d), (e), and (f), respectively. SENATE RESOLUTION 471—DESIG- tax imposed by this chapter for any taxable (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.— NATING MARCH 29, 2018, AS year under the National Research Program, (1) Paragraph (3) of section 7122(c) of the ‘‘VIETNAM VETERANS DAY’’ Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as redesig- but only if such audit results in no increase Mr. BURR (for himself and Mr. in the tax liability of the taxpayer for such nated by subsection (a), is amended by in- taxable year. serting ‘‘and’’ at the end of subparagraph MANCHIN) submitted the following reso- ‘‘(c) DENIAL OF DOUBLE BENEFIT.—No de- (A), by striking ‘‘, and’’ at the end of sub- lution; which was considered and duction shall be allowed under any other paragraph (B) and inserting a period, and by agreed to: provision of this chapter for any amount for striking subparagraph (C). S. RES. 471 (2) Section 7122 of such Code, as amended which a deduction is allowed under this sec- Whereas the Vietnam War was fought in by this section, is amended by adding at the tion.’’. the Republic of Vietnam from 1955 to 1975 end the following new subsection: (c) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of and involved regular forces from the Demo- ‘‘(g) APPLICATION OF USER FEE.—In the sections for part VII of subchapter B of chap- cratic Republic of Vietnam and Viet Cong case of any assessed tax or other amounts ter 1 of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is guerrilla forces in armed conflict with the imposed under this title with respect to such amended by striking the item relating to United States Armed Forces, the armed tax which is the subject of an offer-in-com- section 224 and by inserting after the item forces of allies of the United States, and the promise, such tax or other amounts shall be relating to section 223 the following new armed forces of the Republic of Vietnam; reduced by any user fee imposed under this items: Whereas the United States Armed Forces title with respect to such offer-in-com- ‘‘Sec. 224. Expenses relating to certain au- became involved in Vietnam because the promise.’’. dits. United States Government wanted to provide (3) Section 6159(g) of such Code is amended ‘‘Sec. 225. Cross reference.’’. direct support by the Armed Forces to the by striking ‘‘section 7122(e)’’ and inserting (d) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments Government of the Republic of Vietnam to ‘‘section 7122(d)’’. made by this section shall apply to taxable defend against the growing threat of Com- (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments years beginning after the date of the enact- munism from the Democratic Republic of made by this section shall apply to offers-in- ment of this Act. Vietnam; compromise submitted after the date of the Whereas members of the United States SEC. 15. TERM LIMIT FOR NATIONAL TAXPAYER enactment of this Act. ADVOCATE. Armed Forces began serving in an advisory (a) IN GENERAL.—Subparagraph (B) of sec- f role to the Government of South Vietnam in tion 7803(c)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS 1955; of 1986 is amended by adding at the end the Whereas as a result of the Gulf of Tonkin following new clause: incidents on August 2 and 4, 1964, Congress overwhelmingly passed the Gulf of Tonkin ‘‘(v) TERM.—The term of the National Tax- SENATE RESOLUTION 470—EX- payer Advocate shall be a 10-year term, be- Resolution (Public Law 88–408) on August 7, ginning with a term to commence on the PRESSING THE SENSE OF THE 1964, which provided to the President of the date which is 18 months after the date of the SENATE THAT ELECTRICITY United States the authority to use armed enactment of the Small Business Taxpayer MARKETS DO NOT APPRO- force to assist the Republic of Vietnam in Bill of Rights Act of 2018. Each subsequent PRIATELY VALUE THE RELI- the defense of its freedom against the Demo- term shall begin on the day after the date on ABILITY AND RESILIENCE AT- cratic Republic of Vietnam; which the previous term expires. The Na- TRIBUTES OF BASELOAD POWER Whereas, in 1965, United States Armed tional Taxpayer Advocate may be appointed GENERATION SERVING THE Forces ground combat units arrived in the Republic of Vietnam to join an already to serve more than 1 term.’’. BULK POWER SYSTEM (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The term of any indi- present 23,000 United States Armed Forces vidual serving as the National Taxpayer Ad- Mr. MANCHIN submitted the fol- personnel; vocate under section 7803(c) of the Internal lowing resolution; which was referred Whereas, by September 1965, there were be- Revenue Code of 1986 as of the date of the en- to the Committee on Energy and Nat- tween 150,000 and 190,000 United States actment of this Act shall end as of the day ural Resources: Armed Forces troops in Vietnam, and by before the date which is 18 months after such 1969, a peak number of United States Armed date of enactment, unless such individual is S. RES. 470 Forces troops in Vietnam of approximately reappointed as the National Taxpayer Advo- Whereas the power generation resource 549,500 troops was reached, including United cate for a subsequent term pursuant to sec- mix of the United States is rapidly changing, States Armed Forces members supporting tion 7803(c)(1)(B)(v) of such Code. presenting ongoing challenges to ensuring the combat operations from Thailand, Cam- SEC. 16. RELEASE OF IRS LEVY DUE TO ECO- that baseload units remain operational and bodia, Laos, and aboard Navy vessels; NOMIC HARDSHIP FOR BUSINESS provide enhanced resilience and reliability Whereas, on January 27, 1973, the Agree- TAXPAYERS. to the power grid of the United States; ment on Ending the War in Vietnam and Re- (a) IN GENERAL.—Subparagraph (D) of sec- Whereas many baseload units are not ap- storing Peace (commonly known as the tion 6343(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code propriately valued for the resilience and reli- ‘‘Paris Peace Accords’’) was signed, which re- of 1986 is amended by striking ‘‘or’’ and in- ability attributes those units provide to the quired the release of all United States pris- serting ‘‘including the financial condition of power grid of the United States; oners-of-war held in North Vietnam and the the taxpayer’s viable trade or business, or’’. Whereas accelerated retirements of coal- withdrawal of all United States Armed (b) DETERMINATION OF ECONOMIC HARD- fired and nuclear baseload power generation Forces from South Vietnam; SHIP.—Subsection (a) of section 6343 of the resources are among those challenges, in- Whereas, on March 29, 1973, the United Internal Revenue Code of 1986 is amended by cluding how those resources are needed— States Armed Forces completed the with- adding at the end the following new para- (1) to provide dependable capacity to serve drawal of combat units and combat support graph: customers; units from South Vietnam; ‘‘(4) DETERMINATION OF ECONOMIC HARDSHIP (2) to support essential grid services, such Whereas, on April 30, 1975, North Viet- TO BUSINESS TAXPAYER.—In determining as voltage and frequency support and namese regular forces captured Saigon, the whether to release any levy under paragraph ramping capability; capital of South Vietnam, effectively placing (1)(D), the Secretary shall consider— (3) to offer high availability and reliability South Vietnam under Communist control; ‘‘(A) the economic viability of the busi- from significant on-site fuel storage; and Whereas more than 58,000 members of the ness, (4) to support integration of new genera- United States Armed Forces lost their lives ‘‘(B) the nature and extent of the hardship tion resources; and in the Vietnam War, and more than 300,000 created by the levy (including whether the Whereas in Docket Numbers RM18-000-001 members of the United States Armed Forces taxpayer has exercised ordinary business and AD18-7-001, and in other proceedings, the were wounded in Vietnam; care and prudence), and Federal Energy Regulatory Commission has Whereas, in 1982, the Vietnam Veterans ‘‘(C) the potential harm to individuals if compiled extensive evidence documenting Memorial was dedicated in the District of the business is liquidated.’’. the reliability and resilience attributes of all Columbia to commemorate the members of (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments power generation resources: Now, therefore, the United States Armed Forces who died or made by this section shall apply to levies be it were declared missing-in-action in Vietnam; made after the date of the enactment of this Resolved, That it is the sense of the Senate Whereas the Vietnam War was an ex- Act. that the Federal Energy Regulatory Com- tremely divisive issue among the people of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:56 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.027 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2223 the United States and a conflict that caused nor Roosevelt to assist the families left be- Command, and General Terrence J. a generation of veterans to wait too long for hind by the fallen members and veterans of O’Shaughnessy, USAF, for reappoint- the United States public to acknowledge and the Armed Forces of the United States; ment to the grade of general and to be honor the efforts and services of those vet- Whereas the first meeting of Gold Star Commander, United States Northern erans; Wives of America, Inc. was held on April 5, Whereas members of the United States 1945; Command, and Commander, North Armed Forces who served bravely and faith- Whereas April 5, 2018, marks the 73rd anni- American Aerospace Defense Com- fully for the United States during the Viet- versary of the first meeting of Gold Star mand, both of the Department of De- nam War were often wrongly criticized for Wives of America, Inc.; fense. the decisions of policymakers that were be- Whereas the members and veterans of the COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN yond the control of those members of the Armed Forces of the United States bear the AFFAIRS United States Armed Forces; and burden of protecting the freedom of the peo- The Committee on Banking, Housing, Whereas designating March 29, 2018, as ple of the United States; and and Urban Affairs is authorized to ‘‘Vietnam Veterans Day’’ would be an appro- Whereas the sacrifices of the families of priate way to honor the members of the the fallen members and veterans of the meet during the session of the Senate United States Armed Forces who served in Armed Forces of the United States should on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at 10 a.m to South Vietnam and throughout Southeast never be forgotten: Now, therefore, be it conduct a hearing on the following Asia during the Vietnam War: Now, there- Resolved, That the Senate— nominations: Thelma Drake, of Vir- fore, be it (1) designates April 5, 2018, as ‘‘Gold Star ginia, to be Federal Transit Adminis- Resolved, That the Senate— Wives Day’’; trator, Department of Transportation, (1) designates March 29, 2018, as ‘‘Vietnam (2) honors and recognizes— Jeffrey Nadaner, of Maryland, to be an Veterans Day’’; (A) the contributions of the members of Assistant Secretary of Commerce, and (2) honors and recognizes the contributions Gold Star Wives of America, Inc.; and of veterans who served in the United States (B) the dedication of the members of Gold Seth Daniel Appleton, of Missouri, to Armed Forces in Vietnam during war and Star Wives of America, Inc. to the members be an Assistant Secretary of Housing during peace; and veterans of the Armed Forces of the and Urban Development. (3) encourages States and local govern- United States; and COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND ments to designate March 29, 2018, as ‘‘Viet- (3) encourages the people of the United TRANSPORTATION nam Veterans Day’’; and States to observe Gold Star Wives Day to The Committee on Commerce, (4) encourages the people of the United promote awareness of— Science, and Transportation is author- States to observe Vietnam Veterans Day (A) the contributions and dedication of the ized to meet during the session of the with appropriate ceremonies and activities members of Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. that— to the members and veterans of the Armed Senate on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at 10 (A) provide the appreciation that veterans Forces of the United States; and a.m. to conduct a hearing on the nomi- of the Vietnam War deserve; (B) the important role that Gold Star nation of Karl L. Schultz, to be Admi- (B) demonstrate the resolve that the peo- Wives of America, Inc. plays in the lives of ral and to be Commandant of the Coast ple of the United States shall never forget the spouses and families of the fallen mem- Guard, Department of Homeland Secu- the sacrifices and service of a generation of bers and veterans of the Armed Forces of the rity. veterans who served in the Vietnam War; United States. COMMITTEE ON ENERGY AND NATURAL (C) promote awareness of the faithful serv- f RESOURCES ice and contributions of the veterans of the Vietnam War— AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND The Committee on Energy and Nat- (i) during service in the United States PROPOSED ural Resources is authorized to meet Armed Forces; and during the session of the Senate on (ii) to the communities of the veterans SA 2238. Mr. MCCONNELL (for Ms. HASSAN) Tuesday, April 17, 2018, at 10 a.m. to since returning home; proposed an amendment to the bill S. 1281, to conduct a hearing. (D) promote awareness of the importance establish a bug bounty pilot program within COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS of entire communities empowering veterans the Department of Homeland Security, and and the families of veterans in helping the for other purposes. The Committee on Foreign Relations is authorized to meet during the ses- veterans readjust to civilian life after serv- f ice in the United States Armed Forces; and sion of the Senate on Tuesday, April 17, (E) promote opportunities for veterans of TEXT OF AMENDMENTS 2018, at 10 a.m. to conduct a hearing en- the Vietnam War— SA 2238. Mr. MCCONNELL (for Ms. titled ‘‘U.S. Policy in Yemen.’’ (i) to assist younger veterans returning HASSAN) proposed an amendment to SUBCOMMITEE ON SEAPOWER from the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan in re- the bill S. 1281, to establish a bug boun- The Subcommitee on Seapower of the habilitation from wounds, both seen and un- seen; and ty pilot program within the Depart- Committee on Armed Services is au- (ii) to support the reintegration of younger ment of Homeland Security, and for thorized to meet during the session of veterans into civilian life. other purposes; as follows: the Senate on Tuesday, April 17, 2018, f On page 8, line 21, strike ‘‘90 days’’ and in- at 2:30 p.m. to conduct a hearing. sert ‘‘180 days’’. f SENATE RESOLUTION 472—DESIG- NATING APRIL 5, 2018, AS ‘‘GOLD f APPOINTMENT STAR WIVES DAY’’ AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Mr. BURR (for himself, Mr. MANCHIN, MEET Chair announces, on behalf of the ma- Mr. INHOFE, and Mr. HELLER) submitted Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I have 6 jority leader, pursuant to Public Law the following resolution; which was requests for committees to meet during 70–770, the appointment of the fol- considered and agreed to: today’s session of the Senate. They lowing individual to the Migratory S. RES. 472 have the approval of the Majority and Bird Conservation Commission: the Whereas the Senate honors the sacrifices Minority leaders. Honorable JOHN N. BOOZMAN of Arkan- made by the spouses and families of the fall- Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph sas. en members of the Armed Forces of the 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- f United States; ate, the following committees are au- HACK THE DEPARTMENT OF Whereas Gold Star Wives of America, Inc. thorized to meet during today’s session represents the spouses and families of the HOMELAND SECURITY ACT OF 2017 of the Senate: members and veterans of the Armed Forces Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I of the United States who have died on active COMMITTEE ON ARMED SERVICES ask unanimous consent that the Sen- duty or as a result of a service-connected dis- The Committee on Armed Services is ate proceed to the immediate consider- ability; authorized to meet during the session Whereas the primary mission of Gold Star ation of Calendar No. 335, S. 1281. of the Senate on Tuesday, April 17, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Wives of America, Inc. is to provide services, 2018, at 9:30 a.m. to conduct a hearing support, and friendship to the spouses of the clerk will report the bill by title. fallen members and veterans of the Armed on the following nominations: Admiral The bill clerk read as follows: Forces of the United States; Philip S. Davidson, USN, for reappoint- A bill (S. 1281) to establish a bug bounty Whereas, in 1945, Gold Star Wives of Amer- ment to the grade of admiral and to be pilot program within the Department of ica, Inc. was organized with the help of Elea- Commander, United States Pacific Homeland Security, and for other purposes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:15 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP6.033 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2224 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 There being no objection, the Senate program, broken down by the number of ap- (b) ESTABLISHMENT OF PILOT PROGRAM.— proceeded to consider the bill, which proved individuals, organizations, or companies (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days had been reported from the Committee that— after the date of enactment of this Act, the (A) registered; Secretary shall establish, within the Office on Homeland Security and Govern- (B) were approved; of the Chief Information Officer, a bug boun- mental Affairs, with an amendment to (C) submitted security vulnerabilities; and ty pilot program to minimize vulnerabilities strike all after the enacting clause and (D) received compensation; of Internet-facing information technology of insert in lieu thereof the following: (2) the number and severity of vulnerabilities the Department. reported as part of the pilot program; (2) REQUIREMENTS.—In establishing the SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (3) the number of previously unidentified se- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Hack the De- pilot program, the Secretary shall— curity vulnerabilities remediated as a result of (A) provide compensation for reports of partment of Homeland Security Act of 2017’’ or the pilot program; the ‘‘Hack DHS Act’’. previously unidentified security (4) the current number of outstanding pre- vulnerabilities within the websites, applica- SEC. 2. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY viously unidentified security vulnerabilities and BUG BOUNTY PILOT PROGRAM. tions, and other Internet-facing information Department remediation plans; technology of the Department that are ac- (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: (5) the average length of time between the re- cessible to the public; (1) BUG BOUNTY PROGRAM.—The term ‘‘bug porting of security vulnerabilities and remedi- (B) award a competitive contract to an en- bounty program’’ means a program under which ation of the vulnerabilities; an approved individual, organization, or com- tity, as necessary, to manage the pilot pro- (6) the types of compensation provided under gram and for executing the remediation of pany is temporarily authorized to identify and the pilot program; and report vulnerabilities of Internet-facing infor- vulnerabilities identified as a consequence of (7) the lessons learned from the pilot program. the pilot program; mation technology of the Department in ex- (d) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— (C) designate mission-critical operations change for compensation. There are authorized to be appropriated to the within the Department that should be ex- (2) DEPARTMENT.—The term ‘‘Department’’ Department $250,000 for fiscal year 2018 to carry cluded from the pilot program; means the Department of Homeland Security. out this Act. (3) INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.—The term ‘‘in- (D) consult with the Attorney General on Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I how to ensure that approved individuals, or- formation technology’’ has the meaning given ask unanimous consent that the Has- the term in section 11101 of title 40, United ganizations, or companies that comply with States Code. san amendment be considered and the requirements of the pilot program are (4) PILOT PROGRAM.—The term ‘‘pilot pro- agreed to, the committee-reported sub- protected from prosecution under section gram’’ means the bug bounty pilot program re- stitute amendment, as amended, be 1030 of title 18, United States Code, and simi- quired to be established under subsection (b)(1). agreed to, and the bill, as amended, be lar provisions of law for specific activities (5) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ means considered read a third time. authorized under the pilot program; the Secretary of Homeland Security. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without (E) consult with the relevant offices at the Department of Defense that were responsible (b) ESTABLISHMENT OF PILOT PROGRAM.— objection, it is so ordered. (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days after for launching the 2016 ‘‘Hack the Pentagon’’ the date of enactment of this Act, the Secretary The amendment (No. 2238) was agreed pilot program and subsequent Department of shall establish, within the Office of the Chief to, as follows: Defense bug bounty programs; Information Officer, a bug bounty pilot program (Purpose: To improve the bill) (F) develop an expeditious process by to minimize vulnerabilities of Internet-facing in- On page 8, line 21, strike ‘‘90 days’’ and in- which an approved individual, organization, formation technology of the Department. sert ‘‘180 days’’. or company can register with the entity de- (2) REQUIREMENTS.—In establishing the pilot The committee-reported amendment scribed in subparagraph (B), submit to a program, the Secretary shall— background check as determined by the De- (A) provide compensation for reports of pre- in the nature of a substitute, as amend- partment, and receive a determination as to viously unidentified security vulnerabilities ed, was agreed to. eligibility for participation in the pilot pro- within the websites, applications, and other The bill was ordered to be engrossed gram; and Internet-facing information technology of the for a third reading and was read the (G) engage qualified interested persons, in- Department that are accessible to the public; third time. cluding non-government sector representa- (B) award a competitive contract to an entity, Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I tives, about the structure of the pilot pro- as necessary, to manage the pilot program and know of no further debate on the bill. gram as constructive and to the extent prac- for executing the remediation of vulnerabilities The PRESIDING OFFICER. If there ticable. identified as a consequence of the pilot program; (c) REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after (C) designate mission-critical operations with- is no further debate, the bill having the date on which the pilot program is com- in the Department that should be excluded from been read the third time, the question pleted, the Secretary of Homeland Security the pilot program; is, Shall the bill pass? shall submit to the Committee on Homeland (D) consult with the Attorney General on how The bill (S. 1281), as amended, was Security and Governmental Affairs of the to ensure that approved individuals, organiza- passed, as follows: Senate and the Committee on Homeland Se- tions, or companies that comply with the re- S. 1281 curity of the House of Representatives a re- quirements of the pilot program are protected port on the pilot program, which shall in- from prosecution under section 1030 of title 18, Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- clude— United States Code, and similar provisions of resentatives of the United States of America in (1) the number of approved individuals, or- law for specific activities authorized under the Congress assembled, ganizations, or companies involved in the pilot program; SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. pilot program, broken down by the number (E) consult with the relevant offices at the De- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Hack the of approved individuals, organizations, or partment of Defense that were responsible for Department of Homeland Security Act of companies that— launching the 2016 ‘‘Hack the Pentagon’’ pilot 2017’’ or the ‘‘Hack DHS Act’’. (A) registered; program and subsequent Department of Defense SEC. 2. DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY (B) were approved; bug bounty programs; BUG BOUNTY PILOT PROGRAM. (C) submitted security vulnerabilities; and (F) develop an expeditious process by which (a) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: (D) received compensation; an approved individual, organization, or com- (1) BUG BOUNTY PROGRAM.—The term ‘‘bug (2) the number and severity of pany can register with the entity described in bounty program’’ means a program under vulnerabilities reported as part of the pilot subparagraph (B), submit to a background which an approved individual, organization, program; check as determined by the Department, and re- or company is temporarily authorized to (3) the number of previously unidentified ceive a determination as to eligibility for partici- identify and report vulnerabilities of Inter- security vulnerabilities remediated as a re- pation in the pilot program; and net-facing information technology of the De- sult of the pilot program; (G) engage qualified interested persons, in- partment in exchange for compensation. (4) the current number of outstanding pre- cluding non-government sector representatives, (2) DEPARTMENT.—The term ‘‘Department’’ viously unidentified security vulnerabilities about the structure of the pilot program as con- means the Department of Homeland Secu- and Department remediation plans; structive and to the extent practicable. rity. (5) the average length of time between the (c) REPORT.—Not later than 90 days after the (3) INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.—The term reporting of security vulnerabilities and re- date on which the pilot program is completed, ‘‘information technology’’ has the meaning mediation of the vulnerabilities; the Secretary of Homeland Security shall submit given the term in section 11101 of title 40, (6) the types of compensation provided to the Committee on Homeland Security and United States Code. under the pilot program; and Governmental Affairs of the Senate and the (4) PILOT PROGRAM.—The term ‘‘pilot pro- (7) the lessons learned from the pilot pro- Committee on Homeland Security of the House gram’’ means the bug bounty pilot program gram. of Representatives a report on the pilot program, required to be established under subsection (d) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— which shall include— (b)(1). There are authorized to be appropriated to (1) the number of approved individuals, orga- (5) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ the Department $250,000 for fiscal year 2018 nizations, or companies involved in the pilot means the Secretary of Homeland Security. to carry out this Act.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:15 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.034 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2225 Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I Senate completes its business today, it or acknowledgement. It often goes ask unanimous consent that the mo- adjourn until 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, overlooked that our coastguardsmen tion to reconsider be considered made April 18; further, that following the are serving across every ocean and on and laid upon the table. prayer and pledge, the morning hour be every continent, including Antarctica. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without deemed expired, the Journal of pro- They serve across the Middle East, in- objection, it is so ordered. ceedings be approved to date, the time cluding in both Iraq and Afghanistan. f for the two leaders be reserved for their They help protect our Navy’s ships, de- use later in the day, and morning busi- fend against pirates, and ensure our VIETNAM VETERANS DAY ness be closed. I further ask that fol- strategic ports remain open. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I lowing leader remarks, the Senate re- This legislation provides the Coast ask unanimous consent that the Sen- sume consideration of S.J. Res. 57, with Guard the authority to better carry ate proceed to the consideration of S. the time until 12 noon equally divided out those missions, including defending Res. 471, submitted earlier today. between the managers or their des- our critical ballistic submarines when The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ignees; further, I ask that at 12 noon they are surfaced and at their most clerk will report the resolution by tomorrow, the Senate vote on passage vulnerable. In one way or another, the title. of S.J. Res. 57, and that if passed, the Coast Guard affects every American, The bill clerk read as follows: motion to reconsider be considered even in my home State of South Da- A resolution (S. Res. 471) designating made and laid upon the table; finally, kota. We may not have a coastline, but March 29, 2018, as ‘‘Vietnam Veterans Day.’’ notwithstanding the provisions of rule the work of the Coast Guard helps fa- There being no objection, the Senate XXII, the cloture vote with respect to cilitate the export of agricultural prod- proceeded to consider the resolution. the House message to accompany S. 140 ucts that drive our State’s economy. Mr. MCCONNELL. I know of no fur- occur following disposition of S.J. Res. The Coast Guard also provides boating ther debate on the measure. 57. safety classes and outreach to tens of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without thousands of my fellow South Dako- question is on agreeing to the resolu- objection, it is so ordered. tans. This outreach saves lives every tion. single day. The resolution (S. Res. 471) was f This past year was the deadliest for agreed to. ORDER FOR ADJOURNMENT boaters in the past 5 years, with a 12- percent increase in deaths. Many of Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous Mr. MCCONNELL. If there is no fur- consent that the preamble be agreed ther business to come before the Sen- those deaths could have been pre- to. ate, I ask unanimous consent that it vented, and this legislation seeks to The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without stand adjourned under the previous make improvements to boater safety, objection, it is so ordered. order, following the remarks of Sen- such as requiring the use of an engine The preamble was agreed to. cutoff switch for certain recreational ator THUNE. (The resolution, with its preamble, is The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without boats. Maybe you have seen the videos printed in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- objection, it is so ordered. of boaters falling overboard and their mitted Resolutions.’’) The Senator from South Dakota. boat continuing in circles and hitting Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous them, often seriously injuring or even consent that the motions to reconsider f killing them. This change, supported be considered made and laid upon the COAST GUARD AUTHORIZATION by the recreational boating commu- table with no intervening action or de- BILL nity, will prevent these types of inci- bate. Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, I want to dents in the future. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without speak today to the Coast Guard Au- This legislation also provides cer- objection, it is so ordered. thorization Act of 2017, of which I am a tainty to our mariners. It streamlines f cosponsor. As chairman of the Com- regulations, reduces burdens, and clari- fies ambiguous rules that harm our merce Committee, which has jurisdic- GOLD STAR WIVES DAY commerce and our environment. We tion over the Coast Guard, I am proud Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I also reauthorize the hydrographic serv- that we were able to bring this impor- ask unanimous consent that the Sen- ices at the National Oceanic and At- tant bipartisan legislation, which was ate proceed to the consideration of S. mospheric Administration, which are originally introduced by Senator SUL- Res. 472, submitted earlier today. necessary for shoreline mapping and LIVAN, to the floor today for consider- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The accurate nautical charts, and we reau- ation. The bill that we are debating clerk will report the resolution by thorize the Federal Maritime Commis- will increase our national security, title. sion. The bill clerk read as follows: protect our maritime industry, in- Finally, this bill fixes a broken A resolution (S. Res. 472) designating April crease safety for the boating public, patchwork of regulations that prevents 5, 2018, as ‘‘Gold Star Wives Day.’’ and provide consistency for those who efficiency in moving goods along our There being no objection, the Senate depend on the water for their daily waterways. The Vessel Incidental Dis- proceeded to consider the resolution. work. charge Act, or VIDA, is important bi- As anyone impacted by the 2017 hur- Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous partisan legislation—sponsored by Sen- consent that the resolution be agreed ricane season will tell you, the Coast ators WICKER, CASEY, and more than 20 to, the preamble be agreed to, and the Guard plays a vitally important role in cosponsors from both sides of the motions to reconsider be considered our Nation’s first response efforts. aisle—that creates a uniform set of made and laid upon the table with no Equally critical is the Coast Guard’s rules to protect the environment while intervening action or debate. role as a member of our U.S. military. providing consistent regulations for all The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Coast Guard women and men protect ports and waterways. objection, it is so ordered. our waterways, defend our shores, You will hear from some of my col- The resolution (S. Res. 472) was interdict contraband, arrest human leagues that this act reduces environ- agreed to. traffickers, guarantee the free move- mental controls and is being jammed The preamble was agreed to. ment of commerce, and ensure the down their throats. This is simply not (The resolution, with its preamble, is stewardship of our national resources. true. We have negotiated in good faith printed in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- On any given day, the Coast Guard for hundreds of hours, over the past few mitted Resolutions.’’) responds to an average of 45 search and Congresses, to make this a strong piece f rescue missions, seizes 1,500 pounds of of bipartisan legislation. We need drugs, interdicts 17 illegal migrants, strict, science-based, and achievable ORDERS FOR WEDNESDAY, APRIL conducts 16 security boardings, and fa- environmental standards, and that is 18, 2018 cilitates the movement of $12.6 billion what this VIDA title will yield. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I worth of goods. These professionals do The new standards must be based on ask unanimous consent that when the their job without seeking recognition the best available technology that is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:56 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 4624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17AP6.037 S17APPT1 lotter on DSK3G9T082PROD with SENATE S2226 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE April 17, 2018 economically achievable and are de- ing to accommodate the concerns of in- ANDREW M. SAUL, OF NEW YORK, TO BE COMMIS- SIONER OF SOCIAL SECURITY FOR THE TERM EXPIRING signed to become more stringent over dividual Senators on both sides of the JANUARY 19, 2019, VICE MICHAEL J. ASTRUE, RESIGNED. time as technology improves. Setting aisle but finding a balanced bill that ANDREW M. SAUL, OF NEW YORK, TO BE COMMIS- SIONER OF SOCIAL SECURITY FOR THE TERM EXPIRING limits beyond what is achievable may should attract broad bipartisan sup- JANUARY 19, 2025. (REAPPOINTMENT) make for a good sound bite, but it port. I hope when that vote comes to- MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION doesn’t actually improve the environ- morrow, we will be able to see Members ALEXANDER CRENSHAW, OF FLORIDA, TO BE A MEM- ment. This bill will. on both sides support this legislation BER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION FOR A TERM OF THREE Like so much of the work we do at and the men and women of the Coast YEARS, VICE MARK GREEN, TERM EXPIRED. Guard, who do so much important work the Commerce Committee, Senator OVERSEAS PRIVATE INVESTMENT CORPORATION NELSON and I have worked hard to en- for our country. LOUIS DEJOY, OF NORTH CAROLINA, TO BE A MEMBER sure the bipartisan Coast Guard Au- I yield the floor. OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE OVERSEAS PRI- thorization Act of 2017 can garner VATE INVESTMENT CORPORATION FOR A TERM EXPIR- f ING DECEMBER 17, 2020, VICE MICHAEL JAMES WARREN, strong support on both sides of the TERM EXPIRED. aisle. The measure meets the oper- ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 9:30 A.M. FREDERICK PERPALL, OF TEXAS, TO BE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE OVERSEAS PRIVATE ational needs of the Coast Guard, al- TOMORROW INVESTMENT CORPORATION FOR A TERM EXPIRING DE- CEMBER 17, 2020, VICE JAMES M. DEMERS, TERM EX- lowing the service to continue to do The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under the job that so many of our constitu- PIRED. the previous order, the Senate stands MILLENNIUM CHALLENGE CORPORATION ents rely on. It reauthorizes the FMC adjourned until 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, and NOAA’s hydrographic services. Fi- SUSAN M. MCCUE, OF VIRGINIA, TO BE A MEMBER OF April 18, 2018. THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE MILLENNIUM CHAL- nally, it provides needed regulatory LENGE CORPORATION FOR A TERM OF TWO YEARS. (RE- Thereupon, the Senate, at 6:24 p.m., APPOINTMENT) certainty for recreational and commer- adjourned until Wednesday, April 18, CORPORATION FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY cial vessel operators, while ensuring 2018, at 9:30 a.m. strong environmental protections for SERVICE our Nation’s waterways. f VICTORIA ANN HUGHES, OF VIRGINIA, TO BE A MEMBER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CORPORATION We are going to have an opportunity NOMINATIONS FOR NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE FOR A TERM to vote on this tomorrow. I urge my EXPIRING OCTOBER 6, 2021. (REAPPOINTMENT) Executive nominations received by HEATHER REYNOLDS, OF TEXAS, TO BE A MEMBER OF colleagues on both sides of the aisle to THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF THE CORPORATION FOR support the men and women of the the Senate: NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE FOR A TERM EX- PIRING SEPTEMBER 14, 2021, VICE DEAN A. REUTER, TERM Coast Guard and to support this bipar- SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION EXPIRED. tisan legislation that has been nego- DAVID FABIAN BLACK, OF NORTH DAKOTA, TO BE DEP- CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY tiated for weeks, months, and years to UTY COMMISSIONER OF SOCIAL SECURITY FOR THE TERM EXPIRING JANUARY 19, 2019, VICE CAROLYN W. GINA HASPEL, OF KENTUCKY, TO BE DIRECTOR OF THE bring us to where we are today—work- COLVIN, TERM EXPIRED. CENTRAL INTELLIGENCE AGENCY, VICE MIKE POMPEO.

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TRIBUTE TO STEVE AUSTIN Not content with his personal success how- HAPPY BIRTHDAY MICHAEL ever, Leonard used his role as president to MULLINS HON. LISA BLUNT ROCHESTER begin implementing changes that would im- OF DELAWARE prove the entire industry. He reformed the way IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES trash was collected in San Francisco, doing HON. BRUCE POLIQUIN away with the old time-intensive practices that OF MAINE Tuesday, April 17, 2018 often resulted in backbreaking work for collec- Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. Mr. Speaker, I tors. He continued modernizing both the com- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES rise today, on behalf of my colleagues Senator pany and the industry throughout his career. Tuesday, April 17, 2018 TOM CARPER and Senator CHRIS COONS of Leonard was also proud of his service in the Delaware, to honor and congratulate Steve U.S. Navy aboard submarines, and of course, Mr. POLIQUIN. Mr. Speaker, it is my pleas- Austin, a Delaware Fire Service veteran and his family, including his wife, Virginia, and his ure to wish Mr. Michael A. Mullins a very recipient of the Congressional Fire Services children, Joseph and Gina. I know that they, happy 80th birthday, which he celebrated on Institute’s (CFSI) 2018 Mason Lankford Fire along with the rest of his family and friends, February 1. Mr. Mullins faithfully served our Leadership Award. join me in celebrating his life and his memory. country for 40 years in the U.S. Army and as A selfless citizen, Steve served the people a civil servant with the National Geospatial-In- of Newark in one of the state’s largest volun- f telligence Agency before his retirement in teer fire companies after joining the fire serv- 2001. ice in 1963. His willingness to help others has IN RECOGNITION OF THE AMER- I would like to thank Michael for his service been a source of comfort to Delawareans ex- ICAN ASSOCIATION OF ORAL to the United States, and wish him a year full periencing times of overwhelming loss and AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEONS of blessings and good health. tragedy. Steve’s sacrifice and volunteer spirit is a testament to his character. Steve’s work was essential to the formation HON. MICHAEL C. BURGESS f of the CSFI in 1989 and since then, he has dedicated his life to advancing the health and OF TEXAS RECOGNIZING BETTY BABCOCK safety of firefighters across the nation for more IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES than three decades. His life-long passion is evident in his founding of the Emergency Re- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 HON. JOHN KATKO sponder Safety Institute and Delaware Chap- OF NEW YORK Mr. BURGESS. Mr. Speaker, today I rise to ter of International Arson Investigators. Steve recognize the 100th anniversary of the Amer- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES has been a powerful advocate at the local, ican Association of Oral and Maxillofacial Sur- state and federal level on issues that affect Tuesday, April 17, 2018 geons. Founded in 1918 by just 29 dentists as the ability of first responders to safely resolve the American Society of Exodontists, the orga- dangerous situations and continue living a Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to nization has now grown to include more than long, healthy life. offer Betty Babcock, of the Onondaga Nation’s 9,000 members today. Steve is an extraordinary ambassador for all Snipe Clan my best wishes on the celebration emergency personnel and is much deserving Oral and maxillofacial surgery is the surgical of her 95th birthday on April 22nd. of the CFSI’s 2018 Fire Leadership Award. I arm of dentistry. According to the American Meaning ‘‘People of the Hills,’’ the Onon- want to extend my heartfelt gratitude and sin- Dental Association, this specialty includes the daga Nation and people celebrate a rich and cerest congratulations to Steve for receiving diagnosis, surgical, and adjunctive treatment vibrant culture. Standing as the ‘‘Keepers of the CFSI Leadership Award and for his devo- of diseases, injuries, and defects involving the Fire’’ due to their central location, the On- tion to the people of Delaware. The First State both the functional and esthetic aspects of the ondaga served as the keystone to the great Ir- is lucky to have members of the community hard and soft tissues of the oral and maxillo- oquois Confederacy, forming a system of gov- who volunteer their time and sacrifice their facial region. ernance that inspired America’s founding fa- lives for the greater good. Steve, like many These surgeons are a vital component of thers in crafting the Constitution of the United other emergency workers will tell you, ‘‘I’m just the medical profession. They practice in a va- States. In a storied and respected society doing my job.’’ riety of settings, including private clinical prac- where matriarchy is especially revered, Betty f tice, ambulatory surgical centers, and hos- is certainly the keeper of her family’s hearth, pitals. They also provide service in academia, embodying an inextinguishable flame. REMEMBERING LEONARD the military, and the research industry. Many STEFANELLI Betty has a close-knit family including: her of these surgeons reside and provide critical husband of sixty years Milton, daughter Dar- patient care in my home state of Texas. lene, grandchildren Betty and Eric; and her HON. JOHN GARAMENDI This year, the American Association of Oral brother Oscar. Family has always played a OF CALIFORNIA and Maxillofacial Surgeons will host its 100th key role in Betty’s life; as a young teenager, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Annual Meet and Scientific Sessions and Exhi- Betty became responsible for raising her Tuesday, April 17, 2018 bition. As the members gather in Chicago to younger brothers and sister, and maintains her Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I rise today consider ‘‘Safety and Innovation for the Next dedication to her family to this day. Betty’s first to honor the memory of Leonard Stefanelli, a Century,’’ we also should reflect on the last job was at the offices of Syracuse Attorney native Californian who embodied the American 100 years of progress, led by this organiza- Bob Daugherty, after which she opened and spirit of hard work and determination. tion. operated a very successful restaurant. She Leonard was the son of immigrants in San Today, I recognize the members of the has always been known for her generosity, Francisco, and after graduating high school he American Association for Oral and Maxillo- sense of humor and wonderful meals. took a job as a garbage collector for the Sun- facial Surgeons for their work, and offer my The celebration of Betty’s 95th birthday is a set Scavenger company. Through his hard support for their mission to assure excellence truly momentous occasion. Betty has wit- work, he quickly rose up the ranks, and just in patient care by advancing, promoting, and nessed great milestones in our Nation’s his- 12 years after he started out on the back of preserving the specialty of oral and maxillo- tory, and I am honored to wish her a happy a truck, he became president of the company. facial surgery. birthday.

∑ 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 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17AP8.001 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E480 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2018 HONORING OF HIS HOLINESS SRI helped bring the Arvada community together merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- SRI RAVI SHANKAR and address a variety of disparities, specifi- ily, peers, and community. Most notably, Peter cally as it relates to education. has contributed to his community through his HON. RAJA KRISHNAMOORTHI Congratulations to Rev. John Anderson for Eagle Scout project. Peter built an eight-foot OF ILLINOIS this well-deserved award, and I thank him for tall wood fence around three recycling bins at IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES his contribution to our community. the entrance to Liberty United Methodist f Church. Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI. Mr. Speaker, I rise IN RECOGNITION OF BOB PRICE, commending Peter for his accomplishments today to honor his Holiness Sri Sri Ravi Shan- SUNDAY DISPATCH PERSON OF with the Boy Scouts of America and for his ef- kar, a Hindu spiritual leader and humanitarian THE YEAR forts put forth in achieving the highest distinc- who has devoted his life to eliminating vio- tion of Eagle Scout. lence and spreading compassion throughout HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT f the world. OF PENNSYLVANIA TRIBUTE IN HONOR OF MARTRELL His Holiness’s teachings center on the im- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES portance of spirituality and its ability to en- JACKSON Tuesday, April 17, 2018 hance personal traits such as enthusiasm, love, and compassion. According to his teach- Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise HON. MIKE BISHOP ings on spirituality, the bond that all humans today to recognize Bob Price, who was named OF MICHIGAN share is stronger than any other characteristic the Greater Pittston Sunday Dispatch’s Person IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that divides us, be it religion, race, or nation- of the Year for 2018. The Sunday Dispatch Tuesday, April 17, 2018 ality. Person of the Year award recognizes the per- His Holiness has also taken part in exten- son who has had the greatest impact on life Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I in- sive humanitarian work across the world, from in the Greater Pittston area. Bob will be hon- clude in the RECORD the following proclama- organizing volunteers for many natural disas- ored by the Sunday Dispatch and his commu- tion: ters over the past twenty years, including as- nity on May 8, 2018. Whereas, the 8th Congressional District of sistance for victims of the 2004 tsunami and Bob resides in Dupont, Pennsylvania with Michigan joins in celebration as we com- Hurricane Katrina, to dedicating efforts to pro- his wife of 28 years, Ellen. He is a 1979 grad- memorate Martrell Jackson as he is recog- moting interfaith dialogue through the Board of uate of Wyoming Area High School. After high nized with the Youth on the Move Award by World Religious Leaders for the Elijah Inter- school, Bob attended Penn State University the Greater Lansing Area Club. faith Institute. and received degrees in Electrical Engineering Whereas, Mr. Jackson has dedicated his In addition, His Holiness has played a large and Telecommunications Technology. He cur- time to developing himself as a businessman role in the development of social initiatives all rently works as the Regional Fleet Manager and helping others in our community. At age over the world, and especially in India. He is for Johnson Controls in Allentown. 12 he began working to maintain lawns in his involved in Volunteer For a Better India, an or- Bob is well known throughout the Greater community and used the profits of his work to ganization which promotes voter awareness Pittston Area for the active role he takes in his invest in a snow blower that he could use to and registration as well as free health camps community. He currently serves as the presi- expand his services. He also helps our com- in India. In 2009, His Holiness established Sri dent of the Dupont Borough Crime Watch and munity by volunteering with the Men Making a Sri University in Odisha; in 2017, the school is a member of the Lions Club. Along with fif- Difference Program and assisting his church was awarded a Best Innovative University teen other volunteers, Bob formed the by teaching the younger children. He has Award at the 2017 Education Excellence Progress Committee in 2014 to schedule shared his passion with those around him, in- Awards. events throughout Dupont’s centennial year. In spired other with his kind heart and charisma, In recognition of his contributions to the pro- 2017, Bob was a central figure in the actual and dedicated himself to the ideals that ad- motion of global values, His Holiness has re- planning of the Borough’s 100th anniversary vance our community. ceived the highest awards of many countries, celebration. Bob is also involved with other Let it be known, that the Member of the including India, Colombia, Peru, and Para- local organizations such as Paint Pittston Pink, United States Congress, the Honorable MI- guay. In 2016, the Government of India the Greater Pittston Cultural Coalition, Pittston CHAEL D. BISHOP of the 8th Congressional Dis- awarded him the ‘‘Padma Vibhushan,’’ India’s Arts Council, and NEPA Inclusive. Bob is an trict of the State of Michigan, hereby recog- second highest civilian award. accomplished photographer, and he can often nizes Martrell Jackson for his outstanding Today, I recognize his Holiness Sri Sri Ravi be found at these events taking pictures. achievements. Therefore, this document is Shankar for all that he has done to promote It is an honor to recognize Bob Price as he signed and dedicated to honor this milestone. peace, empathy, and acceptance in our world. accepts the Person of the Year from the May others know of my warmest wishes and I commend him for the good work he has Greater Pittston Sunday Dispatch. I am grate- continued support in the future. done through both his teachings and his hu- ful for all the work he has done on behalf of f manitarian service, and I thank him for his Dupont Borough and the Greater Pittston HONORING THE 50TH ANNIVER- continued efforts to make the world a better area. I wish him all the best and hope that he SARY OF THE NAPA VALLEY AG- place. continues to inspire others with his charitable RICULTURAL PRESERVE f service to his community. f REVEREND JOHN ANDERSON HON. MIKE THOMPSON HONORING PETER MALLON OF CALIFORNIA HON. ED PERLMUTTER IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF COLORADO HON. SAM GRAVES Tuesday, April 17, 2018 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF MISSOURI IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday, April 17, 2018 I rise today to celebrate the 50th anniversary Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Tuesday, April 17, 2018 of the Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve. today to recognize and honor Reverend John Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I In 1968, the Napa Board of Supervisors Anderson for receiving the 2017 Image from proudly pause to recognize Peter Mallon. passed a zoning ordinance to preserve open the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. Peter is a very special young man who has space and prevent future over-development by Each year the Arvada Chamber recognizes exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship creating the Napa Valley Agricultural Preserve, Arvada’s finest men and women for their in- and leadership by taking an active part in the the first agricultural preserve in the United volvement and dedication to the community. Boy Scouts of America, Troop 374, and earn- States. The ordinance established agriculture Rev. Anderson’s positive outlook and impact ing the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. and open space as the best use of the land has helped to shape a kind, giving and peo- Peter has been very active with his troop, in the valley and foothill areas of Napa Coun- ple-focused congregation and community. participating in many scout activities. Over the ty. Through his work as the Reverend of Trinity many years Peter has been involved with Originally the ordinance protected 26,000 Presbyterian Church, Rev. Anderson has scouting, he has not only earned numerous acres of land and today the preserve includes

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17AP8.006 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E481 31,609 acres. The Napa Valley Agricultural PERSONAL EXPLANATION In 2012, Lottie was inducted into the Preserve has been a vital component to the Broward County Women’s Hall of Fame for health of Californian agriculture and has lead HON. YVETTE D. CLARKE her work with the Ann Storck Children’s Cen- the way in agricultural protection and preser- OF NEW YORK ter, the Elderly Interest Fund’s MEDIVAN Pro- vation in California for the past half century. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES gram, and the Alzheimer’s Family Center. As we continue our efforts to preserve the Mr. Speaker, Lottie was an extraordinary Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Napa Valley, property owners have voluntarily friend. She helped me at every stage of my placed their land into conservation easements Ms. CLARKE of New York. Mr. Speaker, on career, never wavering, never faltering. On to ensure the acreage remains rural through April 16, 2018, I was unavoidably detained good days and bad days, I knew Lottie would the preserve. and missed recorded votes No. 140 and 141. be there for me as she was for so many of us. The ordinance was written to monitor devel- Had I been present, on Roll Call No. 140, H.R. Her advice, wisdom, humor, and vast knowl- opment and ensure that the natural landscape 146, Eastern Band of Cherokee Historic Lands edge of life will be sorely missed. would be protected and that the environment Acquisition Act, as amended, I would have f would be utilized in a mutually beneficial way voted YEA; and on Roll Call No. 141, S. 167, RECOGNIZING THE TECHNICAL DE- for residents, farmers and developers. The National Memorial to Fallen Educators Act, I VELOPMENT TEAM AT NAVAL protection from rapid urbanization has enabled would have voted YEA. SURFACE WARFARE CENTER agriculture to flourish in the 21st century and f PANAMA CITY DIVISION has allowed Napa to remain the premier coun- JOHN BEATTIE ty for California wine growers. The preserve has ensured the long-term HON. NEAL P. DUNN conservation of Napa County’s agricultural leg- HON. ED PERLMUTTER OF FLORIDA acy and its future as an essential agricultural OF COLORADO IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES region in the United States. Because of the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tuesday, April 17, 2018 preserve the region will continue to be the Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Mr. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to con- ideal location for producing wine grapes and Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise gratulate an outstanding technical develop- other types of agriculture. today to recognize and honor John Beattie for ment team at Naval Surface Warfare Center, Mr. Speaker, Napa Valley Agricultural Pre- being selected as the 2017 Man of the Year Panama City Division (NSWCPCD), for win- serve is crucial to the preservation of the agri- by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. ning the Excellence in Technology Transfer cultural output of Napa County and all of Each year the Arvada Chamber recognizes Award by the Federal Laboratory Consortium Northern California. It is therefore fitting and Arvada’s finest men and women for their in- for Technology Transfer (FLC). The team of proper that we honor its 50th anniversary. volvement and dedication to the community. Dennis Gallagher, William Hughes, Allie f John’s outstanding community involvement, Pilcher, Richard Manley, Charles Self, and Brian Wentworth won with their invention, the PERSONAL EXPLANATION generosity and overall impact on Arvada is ex- emplified by the amount of time he has do- Combat Diver Navigation Module (CDNM). nated to the Arvada Food Bank helping to pro- Everyday, combat divers risk their lives fac- HON. DINA TITUS vide thousands of children, families, individ- ing hazardous conditions to protect our coun- OF NEVADA uals, seniors and veterans with fresh food. His try—and they do it all while underwater. The IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES spirit of service and dedication to his commu- CDNM technology will increase accuracy, Tuesday, April 17, 2018 nity makes him a role model in the community safety, and situational awareness for combat and is why he was selected as the 2017 Man divers carrying out dangerous underwater mis- Ms. TITUS. Mr. Speaker, I was absent April of the Year. sions. Having the technology to safely carry 16, 2018 due to unforeseen circumstances. If Congratulations to John Beattie for this well- out these missions is crucial and that is where I were present, I would have voted on the fol- deserved award, and I thank him for his con- the technical development team at NSWCPCD lowing: tribution to our community. comes in. Roll no. 140—H.R. 146—On motion to sus- f This team worked together to create a prod- pend the rules and pass the bill: Yea, and Roll uct that will not only allow our combat divers no. 141—S. 167—On motion to suspend the HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY to navigate in zero visibility conditions, it will rules and pass the bill, as amended: Yea. OF LOTTIE ALBERT be used to save lives by other first responders f and our allies overseas. Our nation thanks Dennis, William, Allie, PERSONAL EXPLANATION HON. ALCEE L. HASTINGS OF FLORIDA Richard, Charles, and Brian for their creative IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and innovative thinking—your technology will HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR. Tuesday, April 17, 2018 save lives, and exemplifies the best American OF NEW JERSEY inventive spirit. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to f mourn the passing of my dear friend Lottie Al- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 bert. Lottie was born on December 25, 1915 PERSONAL EXPLANATION Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, on April 16, to Eva and Louis Wernick in New York City. 2018, I missed two roll call votes. Had I been Twenty-one years later, Lottie married Sol Al- HON. LUIS V. GUTIE´RREZ present, I would have voted: YES on Roll Call bert and the two enjoyed 55 years of mar- OF ILLINOIS Vote 140, H.R. 146—Eastern Band of Cher- riage, and have two lovely daughters, Harriet IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES okee Historic Lands Reacquisition Act, as and Doreen. Lottie was the loving grand- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 amended; and YES on Roll Call Vote 141, S. mother to Eric, Glenn, and Lowell, as well as Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ. Mr. Speaker, I was un- 167—National Memorial to Fallen Educators a great-grandmother to Kyle, Samantha, avoidably absent in the House chamber for Act. Heather, and Seth. Roll Call votes on Monday, April 16, 2018. f Lottie was a resident and community leader of Broward County for over 40 years. It has Had I been present, I would have voted Yea PERSONAL EXPLANATION been my honor to see Lottie’s commitment on Roll Call votes 140 and 141. and passion for serving her community. She f HON. CARLOS CURBELO was an amazing individual, who dedicated WORLD HEMOPHILIA DAY 2018 OF FLORIDA herself to helping so many throughout South IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Florida. HON. JOSEPH CROWLEY In 1988, she was inducted into the Area OF NEW YORK Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Agency on Aging’s Dr. Nan S. Hutchinson IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. CURBELO of Florida. Mr. Speaker, had Broward Senior Hall of Fame. Additionally, I been present, I would have voted YEA on Broward County honored Lottie in 2005 by de- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Roll Call No. 140, and YEA on Roll Call No. claring November 12th as ‘‘Lottie Albert Ap- Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to 141. preciation Day.’’ recognize April 17, 2018 as World Hemophilia

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.004 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E482 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2018 Day. This is a day when the international com- Home. He helped create the annual Veterans JAMES JOHNSON munity comes together to raise awareness Day Celebrity Chefs Luncheon and has been about hemophilia and other bleeding disorders a chef for Hands Across the Valley, a fund- HON. ED PERLMUTTER It is a day when we also reaffirm our commit- raiser to help feed those in need throughout OF COLORADO ment to the individuals across the globe who Napa County. He has taught annual etiquette IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES are living with this dangerous chronic disease. classes at Yountville Elementary School, orga- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Hemophilia is a genetic bleeding disorder nized fundraisers for Yountville Little League, Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise that prevents blood from clotting normally, and supported numerous programs at Con- today to recognize and honor James Johnson leading to uncontrolled bleeding in different nolly Ranch. During the October 2017 wildfires for receiving the 2017 Arvada Young Profes- parts of the body. Left untreated, the deep in- Mr. Hurley worked for four consecutive nights ternal bleeding associated with hemophilia can sional Leadership Award from the Arvada cooking for first responders. He brought hun- lead to permanent damage of organs and tis- Chamber of Commerce. dreds of meals from his restaurant to the field sues as well as potentially fatal outcomes. Ad- Each year the Arvada Chamber recognizes ditionally, people with hemophilia are at in- where the responders were stationed. Arvada’s finest men and women for their in- creased risk of developing heart disease, HIV Mr. Speaker, Mr. Hurley is the kind of cit- volvement and dedication to the community. infection, and kidney bleeding as time passes. izen we should all strive to be. He is known James is being recognized for his outstanding Hemophilia is considered a rare disease, for making everyone feel important and spe- contribution and leadership in the Arvada com- but it impacts 20,000 people in the United cial. For many years he has provided our munity. James’ professional and approachable States and more than 400,000 people world- community with a welcoming place to gather. demeanor helped make a difference while he wide. There is no cure for hemophilia, and It is therefore fitting and proper that we honor served as the 2017 Arvada Young Profes- three-fourths of patients have inadequate ac- Bob Hurley here today. sionals (AYP) Chair. James also has recently cess to treatment. When treatment is acces- stepped up as Chair of the Two Ponds Preser- sible, it is expensive, leading to costs as high f vation Committee. as $250,000 per year. Congratulations to James Johnson for this As the founder of the Congressional Rare IN RECOGNITION OF RICHARD well-deserved award, and I thank him for his Disease Caucus, I know that much progress MONTONI contribution to our community. has been made in improving access to re- f search funding for rare diseases like hemo- IN RECOGNITION OF THE 70TH philia. However, there is more that must be HON. WILLIAM R. KEATING INDEPENDENCE DAY OF THE done to help those struggling with hemophilia STATE OF ISRAEL obtain needed therapies. With today’s recogni- OF MASSACHUSETTS tion of World Hemophilia Day, it is my hope IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES that we renew our commitment toward achiev- HON. CHRIS COLLINS ing accessible, affordable treatment for the Tuesday, April 17, 2018 OF NEW YORK hundreds of thousands of hemophilia patients IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. KEATING. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in across the world. Tuesday, April 17, 2018 recognition of the retirement of Richard f Montoni, a New England native and dedicated Mr. COLLINS of New York. Mr. Speaker, I HONORING BOB HURLEY government contractor with a passion for civic rise today to recognize the 70th Anniversary of responsibility. the founding of the Jewish state of Israel. In May of 1948, after centuries of foreign rule, HON. MIKE THOMPSON Mr. Montoni is well-regarded by his peers persecution, and conflict, David Ben-Gurion OF CALIFORNIA and deeply respected in his field. As the Chief declared the establishment of the state of IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Executive Officer of MAXIMUS, Richard has Israel, which President Harry S. Truman also Tuesday, April 17, 2018 developed the company into a preeminent recognized on the same day. government partner by delivering health and While the state of Israel has faced much Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, human services to different communities conflict since its founding, and violence be- I rise today to honor Mr. Bob Hurley upon his tween Israelis and Palestinians is common, retirement from a long and distinguished cul- around the world. Prior to becoming CEO he the resilience and strength of the state and its inary career in Napa Valley. served as the company’s Chief Financial Offi- people is astounding. The founding is a direct Mr. Hurley grew up in San Francisco, Cali- cer and Treasurer. result of the hard work and perseverance of fornia. After graduating from high school in Since 2006, Richard has honed the vision of the Jewish people, who fought for their rights 1972, he purchased a van and traveled his company by resolving legal matters and in the face of persecution. This passion and around the United States. He worked in hotels fostering a culture that drives business growth determination is why we are here today, cele- and restaurants along the way, his first foray and optimization. In October 2013 Bloomberg brating the 70th Anniversary of the state of into the restaurant business. He realized his named Richard 3rd in their list of Tech’s Top Israel. passion for cooking and returned to San Fran- 20 Turnaround Artists. The people of Israel plan to celebrate the cisco, where he enrolled in the culinary pro- anniversary with a ‘‘70 hours of Israeli Cele- gram at City College. Post-graduation, Mr. Richard has remained steadfast in his com- brations’’ ceremony, bringing together both the Hurley spent two years traveling in Europe, mitment to communities, teamwork, and strong citizens of Israel as well as Jewish people all India and North Africa learning how food and leadership over the course of his time at the around the world. The theme of this celebra- culture were connected. company, only furthering the blossoming rela- tion is ‘‘Heritage of Innovation’’, which high- Mr. Hurley and his wife Cynthia eventually tionship between governments and private- lights the success of the state at spearheading moved to Napa Valley where he quickly be- sector tech companies that distribute health new technology in the fields of medicine and came an essential part of our Yountville com- and human services programs across the agriculture. I congratulate Israel on its 70th munity. He opened Hurley’s Restaurant in globe. Independence Day, and wish them many more 2002, which is unquestionably a community Complementing his work with communities years of prosperity. staple and favorite spot for locals. Ensuring around the world, Richard serves as Vice f the restaurant’s success meant his normal Chairman for the Northern Virginia Technology workweek was Monday to Saturday, 6 a.m. to Council and Vice Chairman of the Corporate PERSONAL EXPLANATION 7 or 8 p.m. After announcing his plans to retire Fund Board of the John F. Kennedy Center for and close Hurley’s Restaurant, Mr. Hurley has the Performing Arts. HON. MIKE JOHNSON shown the character we all know him to have. OF LOUISIANA Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor Richard He is working to help members of his team, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES which he considers to be family, find new jobs. Montoni and his commitment to providing in- Mr. Hurley’s unwavering commitment to our valuable health and human services. I ask that Tuesday, April 17, 2018 community goes beyond his restaurant. He is my colleagues join me in recognizing his hard Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I the Secretary on the Board of Directors for the work and dedication as he celebrates his re- was unable to vote on H.R. 4790 because I Lincoln Theatre at the Yountville Veterans tirement. was in Louisiana attending a family event.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.012 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E483 Had I been present, I would have voted ing funds from the Department of Justice for being selected as the 2017 Woman of the YEA on Roll Call No. 139. would support local governments establishing Year by the Arvada Chamber of Commerce. f the task forces by listing these task forces as Each year the Arvada Chamber recognizes an acceptable use of Byrne Justice Assistance Arvada’s finest men and women for their in- HONORING IMPACT100 Grants. Given the continuing controversy sur- volvement and dedication to the community. WESTCHESTER rounding police shootings of unarmed African Anita’s community involvement through many American men, with no solutions in sight, this community activities, including the Arvada His- HON. ELIOT L. ENGEL bill is more timely every day. torical Society, Arvada Center for the Arts and OF NEW YORK The task forces, modeled after the federal Humanities, Arvada West High School Foun- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Task Force on 21st Century Policing, would dation and Arvada K–8 Elementary have Tuesday, April 17, 2018 allow local communities to identify the best helped to enrich the City of Arvada. Anita’s ways to create an effective partnership be- spirit of service and true passion for giving to Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I want to con- tween local law enforcement and the commu- others is why she has been selected as the gratulate Impact100 Westchester, an inter- nities they serve, while reducing crime, in- 2017 Woman of the Year. national nonprofit women’s collective giving or- creasing trust and combating racial profiling Congratulations to Anita Marcussen for this ganization, on their successful fifth grant cycle, The task forces could create a partnership to well-deserved award, and I thank her for her as they have broken an amazing milestone by implement practical policing practices accept- contribution to our community. providing more than one million dollars in able to all concerned. f grant money to other nonprofits across West- The creation of task forces could be an im- chester County. portant step toward easing the tensions be- CONGRATULATING GARRY MOORE Impact100 Westchester was established in tween local law enforcement and many com- ON RETIREMENT 2014 with 132 women joining in its first year, munities. In addition, the task forces could and has nearly tripled since its founding. The serve to engage local law enforcement and HON. CHERI BUSTOS group is entirely volunteer, run by dedicated local stakeholders in a transparent public OF ILLINOIS constituents striving to make a difference problem-solving process instead of the current IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES throughout Westchester County. Local organi- situation that encourages parties to choose Tuesday, April 17, 2018 zations who have benefitted from Impact100’s sides. grant giving range from those dealing with f Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to children’s mental health, access to education recognize Garry Moore, who is retiring from 25 programs, environmental improvements, work TRIBUTE IN HONOR OF BREANNA News Today. Mr. Moore is a pillar of the Peo- training for the impaired, immigration groups, I. NIXON ria community and will be greatly missed. and support for survivors of abuse. Mr. Moore has greatly enriched cultural arts In addition to their philanthropy, Impact100 HON. MIKE BISHOP within Peoria through his years of leadership. hosts their own volunteer events across West- OF MICHIGAN Mr. Moore first moved to Peoria to attend chester, continuing to support other nonprofits IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Bradley University where he earned a Bach- with their Hands on Impact, with the Day of elor’s and Master’s Degree in Liberal Studies Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Service and with educational events which and Broadcast Production and Management. benefits and gives back to their community. Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I in- Since then, he has become an anchor and During their short tenure, Impact100 West- clude in the RECORD the following Proclama- producer for 25 News Today, which is Central chester’s success has been reliant on its tion: Illinois’ longest running morning news pro- memberships, volunteers, leadership, advisory Whereas, the 8th Congressional District of gram, in addition to serving as President of council and relationship with the community. I Michigan joins in celebration as we com- the Peoria Local of the American Federation am honored to have Impact100 Westchester memorate BreAnna I. Nixon as she is recog- of Television and Radio Artists. Furthermore, in my district, and to recognize them on this nized with the Youth on the Move Award by he has worked to educate our community wonderful occasion of their Fifth Anniversary. the Greater Lansing Area Club. through his role as an adjunct professor at Illi- Congratulation to everyone involved with Whereas, Ms. Nixon has dedicated her time nois State University and by holding drumming Impact100 Westchester, and thank you to all to developing as an entrepreneur and an ath- classes throughout the area. Mr. Moore has the caring members who have collectively lete. She has taken the initiative to create a also developed and championed several youth granted over one million dollars to support and yard business where she shovels snow, mows empowerment programs throughout Rockford. better our community. lawns and rakes leaves for regular clients It is because of dedicated leaders such as f throughout the year. Like others in her family, Mr. Garry Moore that I am especially proud to BreAnna is active in sports as a member of serve Illinois 17th Congressional District. Mr. INTRODUCTION OF THE LOCAL track, volleyball and basketball teams. In 2017 Speaker, I would like to again formally con- TASK FORCES ON 21ST CENTURY she placed second in the citywide shotput gratulate Mr. Garry Moore on his well-earned POLICING ACT tournament with a throw of 24.8 feet. She has retirement and thank him for all of his con- shared her passions with those around her tributions and service to our community. HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON and dedicated herself to the ideals that ad- f OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA vance our community. HONORING THE LIFE OF DARRELL IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Let it be known, that the Member of the FOSTER ALLEMAN Tuesday, April 17, 2018 United States Congress, the Honorable Mi- chael D. Bishop of the 8th Congressional Dis- Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, today, I intro- trict of the State of Michigan, hereby recog- HON. DARIN LaHOOD duce the Local Task Forces on 21st Century nizes BreAnna Nixon for her outstanding OF ILLINOIS Policing Act, to assist localities in carrying out achievements. Therefore, this document is IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the recommendations of the federal Task signed and dedicated to honor this milestone. Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Force on 21st Century Policing and the De- May others know of my warmest wishes and partment of Justice’s Office of Community Ori- continued support in the future. Mr. LAHOOD. Mr. Speaker, today I would ented Policing Services, both of which have f like to honor and remember the life of Darrell detailed the need to strengthen relations be- Foster Alleman. tween local communities and local law en- ANITA MARCUSSEN Darrell was born on July 12, 1929, in La- forcement. The bill would provide grants to Salle, Illinois and was raised on his family local governments to create local task forces HON. ED PERLMUTTER farm in Eden, Illinois. Darrell rented his first on 21st century policing to bring police, rep- OF COLORADO farm at 18 years old, following his high school resentatives of the community and public offi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES graduation, and worked the land for 70 years cials together to identify best policing practices until he retired. In 1951 he married Jeanne for local police and other ways to strengthen Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Lorraine Anderson. Together they had 4 chil- relations between the community and police Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise dren, Debra Lynn, Kimrey Darrell, Janeen departments. No new funds are needed. Exist- today to recognize and honor Anita Marcussen Roxanne, and Scott William.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.016 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E484 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2018 Active in his community, Darrell served as the largest publishing company in South close to a million Jewish refugees from Arab Putnam County Republican Party Chairman. America. In 1984, he moved to San Francisco lands, a revitalized Hebrew language and He held the position for 29 years where he to finish his degree and to learn English. After flourishing culture, creating an amazing start-up nation from most humble begin- met Presidents Ford, Reagan and H.W. Bush. graduating from the University of San Fran- nings, while fatefully and successfully tested Beyond his political activity, Darrell was a cisco with a degree in graphic arts, he earned in costly wars—are all testimony to the leading member of the Granville Rotary Club a Bachelor of Fine Arts from the Academy of unyielding power of the human spirit to turn where he received the club’s prestigious Paul Art University. In 1988, he joined Primo Angeli adversity into advantage, pain into promise Harris award and maintained perfect attend- Inc., and worked his way up from junior de- and violence into vision. ance up until his passing. signer to art director. Wherever disaster strikes on the globe, whether man-made or natural, you find Darrell was an avid baseball fan and worked Mr. Defreitas has served as the President of Israelis on challenging humanitarian mis- to share the sport with his family, friends and the Board of Directors for La Luz Center since sions, at times first on the scene. This was community as a whole. He built what he called 2016. He has been instrumental in organizing showcased last February when Israelis as- the ‘‘Alleman Field of Dreams’’ on his farm fundraisers such as ‘‘Noche de Moon,’’ which sisted with trauma counselling (sadly Israel where local baseball teams could play and has furthered the Center’s role in the immi- has much experience in this field) following practice. It has since become a community grant community. He has also fundraised and the shooting of 17 students at Marjory organized committees to support local non- Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, icon where every year for the past 4 years a Florida; and reached out when an earth- charity baseball game is held and Field of profits, including the Sonoma Valley Museum quake hit Papua, New Guinea. A Jewish Dreams the movie is shown and enjoyed by of Art, Jack London State Park, Lyon Ranch state is bound to reaffirm the thundering all. and Sonoma Valley Fund. call of its prophets, philosophers and poets, We mourn the passing of this hard working Recently Mr. Defreitas’ service has ex- anchored in its 1948 Declaration of Independ- and dedicated family man, farmer and commu- panded to include helping victims of the Octo- ence, to establish a model society for all its nity activist. Please join me in honoring and ber wildfires. Through his 10 to 12 hour work citizens, narrowing economic and social celebrating this life well lived. days at La Luz Center, he helped distribute gaps, rejoicing in Jewish religious pluralism, and protecting the disadvantaged as well as f $1.2 million in disaster unemployment assist- endangered refugees. ance, individual assistance disaster relief Israel is a model of heroic courage and up- HONORING JACOB ANDREW funds, rent assistance and other services. This lifting audacity in the face of stubborn non- MAGYAR is not out of character for him. As he says, acceptance, with finally Egypt, the largest ‘‘service is my passion.’’ Arab country, and Jordan breaking the cir- HON. SAM GRAVES Mr. Speaker, Mr. Defreitas is the hard work- cle of enmity. It is ever ready to embrace all ing leader and dedicated community member its Arab neighbors and particularly the Pal- OF MISSOURI estinians in the peace of Shalom and Salaam IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES we should all strive to be. He has seamlessly to jointly transform shared pain into blended his professional and personal pas- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 wellsprings of creative hope for future gen- sions, leaving a legacy of community collabo- erations, thus fulfilling Israel’s fondest pray- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I ration. It is therefore fitting and proper that we er. In resolving the 150 year old tragic con- proudly pause to recognize Jacob Magyar. honor Marcelo Defreitas as Sonoma’s 43rd flict with the Palestinians, Israeli security Jacob is a very special young man who has Honorary Alcalde. more than ideology should be paramount, though the two may overlap. The Zionist en- exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship f and leadership by taking an active part in the terprise regarded realistic compromise with the recalcitrant Arabs as essential while Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and earn- 70TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE STATE OF ISRAEL guarding against untenable messianism. ing the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. With adverse demography in mind, Israel’s Jacob has been very active with his troop, major concern is to remain both Jewish and participating in many scout activities. Over the HON. SCOTT TAYLOR democratic. The Palestinians, who have been many years Jacob has been involved with OF VIRGINIA abused as pawns by their Arab brethren, need yet be educated by courageous leaders to scouting, he has not only earned numerous IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- give up their destructive and improbable Tuesday, April 17, 2018 dream of replacing Israel, and not be finan- ily, peers, and community. Most notably, Mr. TAYLOR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to cially rewarded for brutal terrorism which Jacob has contributed to his community postpones peace. Gaza’s ruling Hamas would through his Eagle Scout project. include in the RECORD remarks on behalf of do better spending outside funds to help Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in my constituent, Rabbi Dr. Israel Zoberman. their impoverished people whom they use as commending Jacob for his accomplishments Rabbi Zoberman is the Founding Rabbi of human shields, rather than waste it on rock- with the Boy Scouts of America and for his ef- Congregation Beth Chaverim in Virginia ets and tunnels aimed at Israel. We recall forts put forth in achieving the highest distinc- Beach, Virginia. Born in Chu, Kazakhstan the disturbing collaboration with Hitler of the Palestinian Grand Mufti Haj Amin al- tion of Eagle Scout. (USSR) in 1945, he is the son of Polish Holo- caust Survivors. Husseini. f Israel is the only country whose very exist- ‘‘What a joyful milestone the 70th anniver- ence is being questioned, with signs of HONORING MARCELO DEFREITAS sary celebration of the world’s only Jewish radicalization in its sizable Arab Israeli com- State and only democracy in the Middle East munity. Terrorizing and nuclear ambitious HON. MIKE THOMPSON is, shouldering the 4,000 year old loaded leg- Iran, which denies the Holocaust, and its acy of a restored Jewish people to full dig- Lebanese and Palestinian proxies are near OF CALIFORNIA nity! The historic return into sovereign Jew- Israel’s borders. The United Nations falsely IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ish statehood of an ancient people deprived singles Israel out for constant rebuke while of its homeland for 2,000 years of a trying ex- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 sheltering culprit regimes which violate perience that almost upended it in the Holo- basic human rights. The United States Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, caust should be applauded by the entire through indefatigable Ambassador Nikki I rise today to honor Marcelo Defreitas as the human family. No other people exercised Haley stands tall with Israel, its true ally 2018 Honorary Alcalde for the City of such a comeback. The Jewish people have and trusted friend in the shrinking commu- Sonoma, California. Mayor Madolyn Agrimonti proved its authentic bond with its birthplace nity of democracies. However, the Iranian the Land of Israel, which has served as the nominated Mr. Defreitas as Alcalde, the Span- Shiite menace to both Israel and the Arab daily focus of its prayerful supplications and Sunni world has opened a venue of oppor- ish word for mayor, in recognition of his con- soulful aspirations. It has never abandoned tunity exemplified in Saudi Arabia allowing tributions to our community. its prophetic promise that Israel was des- Air India to use its territory to fly to Tel Mr. Defreitas is from the Southern part of tined to survive and thrive that it may con- Aviv, Israel which is also a first for India’s Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul, in the city of tinue to bless humanity. airlines! Uruguiana. He grew up on a cattle ranch with A narrow stretch of land along the Eastern President Trump Jerusalem Declaration his parents, Jurema De La Vega Rodrigues de Mediterranean Sea is saturated with the Bib- (what an anniversary gift!) that Jerusalem is lical Book of Book’s undying memories of a Freitas and Homero Maydana Rodrigues de indeed Israel’s rightful capital will resonate covenanted Jewish people determined to in long Jewish memory where friends and Freitas and two older brothers, Homero and turn human passion into heartfelt compas- foes are never forgotten. President Donald Jose Mario. sion and life’s wilderness into an oasis of Trump’s proud act of conscience finally Mr. Defreitas studied public relations in col- love. The miraculous ingathering of the ex- lends a superpower’s support for Israel’s in- lege in Brazil and began working in his field at iles from the earth’s four corners, including disputable glorious links to both earthly and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.021 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E485 heavenly Jerusalem that is being denied by for drug delivery systems, self-injection de- Gamecocks,’’ and A’ja is a member of the the West’s tenacious enemies. How moving vices, and the delivery of medical gases. Their Gamecock’s women basketball team. that the American Embassy is relocated patented pic-o cylinders feature accurate and During her tenure at USC, A’ja played in from Tel Aviv to Jerusalem, Israel’s capital, 138 games, averaged 17.3 points per game, on May 14, 2018, exactly 70 years following consistent gas fill levels, extremely low punc- Jewish independence. It is a poignant re- ture forces, and precision sealing surfaces. had 8.7 rebounds and blocked 2.6 shots per minder that President Harry Truman was PICOCYL’s proprietary manufacturing systems game. In 2017, Ms. Wilson led the Game- the first world leader to recognize the new and processes have earned their position as cocks to their first ever NCAA Women’s Bas- state, only eleven minutes following Prime the sole global provider of such components ketball Championship and was named the Minister David Ben-Gurion’s delivering the to the Life Sciences industry. Tournament’s Most Outstanding Player. Declaration of Independence of a redeemed Congratulations to PICOCYL for this well- This year, A’ja was named the Southeastern people. It was Jewish history’s greatest hour deserved award, and I thank them for their Conference’s (SEC) Player of the Year for the after the Holocaust’s lowest mark. Ven- contribution to our community. 3rd consecutive year, and led the Gamecocks omous anti-Semitism is on an alarming re- to a record 4th straight SEC Tournament surgence in the United States and particu- f Championship. She also became the all-time larly in Europe, home of the Holocaust. Po- RECOGNIZING THE PHILADELPHIA land regrettably attempts through a new pu- leading scorer in USC women’s basketball his- nitive law to distance itself from the painful PROGRAM OF VITAS tory and was a consensus first-team All-Amer- truth that there were far more Poles who HEALTHCARE VOLUNTEERS ican for the 3rd consecutive season. collaborated in the merciless destruction of A’ja was named 1st team All-SEC all four of Jewish lives than those righteous Poles who HON. RYAN A. COSTELLO her years at USC. She has swept every one sacrificially rose up to protect their as- OF PENNSYLVANIA of the National Player of the Year awards as saulted Jewish neighbors, including my own IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the best player in women’s college basketball family, who had lived in their midst for a in 2018. Last week, A’ja capped off her col- thousand years! Tuesday, April 17, 2018 The Syrian tragedy weighs heavily on lege athletic career by becoming the first play- Israel whose people emerged from the Holo- Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsylvania. Mr Speak- er drafted by the Women National Basketball caust, with both Jews and Syrians aban- er, I rise to recognize all the volunteers with Association (WNBA). doned by a callous world. The gassing with the Philadelphia Program of VITAS A’ja Wilson was born in Hopkins, South impunity of innocent Syrian civilians, in- Healthcare, who graciously give their time and Carolina to Roscoe and Eva Wilson. She cluding children, so close to Israel as Syria’s talents serving neighbors in need throughout graduated from Heathwood Hall Episcopal civil war is into its seventh year, is most re- Southeastern Pennsylvania. High School in Columbia and led the school to volting. Israel reaching out to medically the state championship as a senior in 2014. save over four thousand Syrians is praise- VITAS Healthcare has been a pioneer in worthy. I concur with Rabbi Israel Lau ask- hospice care since 1978 and has the distinc- Perhaps more important than her statistics; ing Israel to even do more for Syria’s suf- tion of being the nation’s largest provider of A’ja Wilson has been a leader for her teams— fering people. He is Israel’s former chief end-of-life care. The Philadelphia Program of both on and off the court—and in her commu- rabbi, currently chairman of Jerusalem’s VITAS launched in 1993 and currently oper- nity. Yad Vashem Holocaust World Center Council ates three in-patient units serving the five- USC’s President Dr. Harris Pastides, Ath- and the youngest survivor at age eight of the county Philadelphia region. letics Director Ray Tanner and Women’s Head Buchenwald Concentration Camp. Much is More than 60 volunteers in the Philadelphia Coach Dawn Staley have all praised A’ja the demanded though not all can be expected Program serve a vital role in helping VITAS person as well as A’ja the player. President from a now powerful but still vulnerable peo- Pastides recently told The State newspaper, ple enduring the unfathomable and facing a Healthcare deliver quality care and support to complex Middle East scenario. President more than 200 hospice patients and their fami- ‘‘A’ja [is] the person who never turned down Trump’s order to send fifty-nine Tomahawk lies every day. Volunteers of all ages and from an autograph, a selfie, a high five . . . A’ja missiles toward a Syrian air base was appre- diverse backgrounds carry out a variety of has never said no to anybody, and that is be- ciated. The most recent airstrikes by the tasks, ranging from running errands and plac- cause she loves this community, she loves the U.S., U.K. and France at Syria’s illegal ing reassuring phone calls to spending quality fans.’’ chemical weapons operation in light of the time with hospice patients in their homes, hos- Mr. Speaker, I agree with Dr. Pastides, and Syrian lethal chemical attack in Douma, is pitals and skilled nursing facilities. I hasten to add that the basketball fans and encouraging. How could Russia be complicit VITAS will honor these outstanding volun- citizens of her hometown and state love her in Bashar’s genocidal machine when losing back. over twenty million Russians under Nazi teers during an annual luncheon on April 28, Germany? The presence of the USS Bush 2018. The event is part of National Volunteer f Carrier homeported in Norfolk, Virginia Appreciation Week, which was established by H.R. 2901, TO MAKE PERMANENT which I witnessed, on July 4, 2017 in Haifa, President Richard Nixon in 1974 to highlight VOLUNTEER INCOME TAX AS- Israel, following the bombing of ISIS targets the invaluable contributions of all volunteers in Syria, was reassuring. SISTANCE MATCHING GRANT and the incredible difference they make in the PROGRAM May Israel’s significant anniversary of a lives of those they serve. tumultuous homecoming usher in renewed hope that its founders’ inspiring naivete´ of Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me HON. TERRI A. SEWELL being welcomed and appreciated for their today in expressing our sincere gratitude to all OF ALABAMA pioneering efforts in a problematic region, the volunteers with the Philadelphia Program IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES yet bear good fruit for all.’’ of VITAS Healthcare for their selfless service f to individuals and communities in southeastern Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Pennsylvania. May their exemplary dedication Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I PICOCYL and generous spirit inspire all to give back to rise today in support of H.R. 2901, to make others and strengthen our communities permanent the IRS Volunteer Income Tax As- HON. ED PERLMUTTER through volunteerism. sistance (VITA) matching grant program. OF COLORADO f The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (VITA) program assists low-to-moderate in- TRIBUTE TO A’JA WILSON Tuesday, April 17, 2018 come, elderly, disabled, and limited English speaking taxpayers in preparing and filing their Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise HON. JAMES E. CLYBURN federal income tax returns. today to honor PICOCYL for being recognized OF SOUTH CAROLINA Since fiscal year 2008, Congress has used as the 2017 Business Recognition Award win- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the appropriations process to provide funding ner by the Jefferson County Economic Devel- for the Community VITA matching grants pro- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 opment Corporation (Jeffco EDC). gram for tax return preparation assistance. The Business Recognition Award shows ap- Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I rise to pay But Congress has not authorized the VITA preciation for a local company who has shown tribute to an outstanding young lady and great program to receive grants through the tax-writ- exceptional growth in primary employment, South Carolinian, Ms. A’ja Wilson. Ms. Wilson ing process. sales and/or capital investments in the last is a student at the University of South Carolina This bill puts the VITA grant program on year. PICOCYL designs, develops and manu- (USC) in Columbia, South Carolina. USC’s more solid, permanent, and predictable foot- factures very small compressed gas cylinders athletic teams are nicknamed the ‘‘Fighting ing.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.024 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E486 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2018 Without this bill, the IRS has administered recognized as the 2017 Business Recognition Since its opening in August 2017, Principal the VITA grant program narrowly, restricting Award winner by the Jefferson County Eco- Renee Dawson and the entire faculty and staff grantees’ ability to use grant funds to hire ex- nomic Development Corporation (Jeffco EDC). has worked tirelessly to ensure the high qual- perts to train volunteers and perform quality The Business Recognition Award shows ap- ity of education to students from every back- reviews as well as to serve as Certified Ac- preciation for a local company who has shown ground and creed. ceptance Agents. exceptional growth in primary employment, Brambleton Middle School upholds the mis- As a result, few VITA grantees assist low in- sales and/or capital investments in the last sion to empower all students to make mean- come self-employed taxpayers who file as year. Founded in 1939 and headquartered in ingful contributions to the world. Built on the pass-throughs, or low income taxpayers with Stans, Switzerland, The Pilatus Group is a acronym, C.L.I.M.B., Brambleton faculty and disaster losses. leader in the world’s aviation industry and staff work to Create, Lead, Inspire, Motivate, Moreover, few VITA grantees are open known for its legendary aircraft. The com- and Believe in the power of diversity to foster year-round or assist taxpayers in preparing pany’s North American operations were estab- a community of excellence. In thanks to this amended returns. lished in Jefferson County in 1996 at the dedicated faculty and staff; Brambleton Middle This bill will lead to a stronger VITA pro- Rocky Mountain Metropolitan Airport and is re- School students are achieving remarkable gram that is able to help many more low-in- sponsible for PC–12 and PC–24 marketing, things in the classroom while also expanding come Americans navigate the tax filing proc- sales and servicing activities across North and their horizons through extracurricular activities ess. South America. About 70 percent of all PC– including VEX robotics and the Civil War His- I applaud the sponsors of this bill, Rep- 12s that come off the production line in Swit- tory Book club. The Eighth Grade recently or- resentatives CARLOS CURBELO and DANNY zerland are finished to customer specifications ganized a kindness brigade, putting out Ran- DAVIS for working together on this long over- at its Jefferson County-based facility. Today, dom Acts of Kindness Magnets around the due legislation. the company employs over 1,900 people school. Coming from a family of educators, I As a cosponsor of H.R. 2901, I urge all my worldwide. understand the impact that teachers and other colleagues to vote yes on this sensible bill. Congratulations to The Pilatus Group for school staff can have on our children. With f this well-deserved award, and I thank them for that in mind, I am proud of the faculty and their contribution to our community. staff at Brambleton Middle School who foster IN MEMORIAM RODNEY LEWIS f personal and educational growth through their approachable and collaborative methodology TRIBUTE IN HONOR OF WAYNE HON. KYRSTEN SINEMA inside and out of the classroom. Principal LYNN OF ARIZONA Dawson has been passionate about building a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HON. MIKE BISHOP cohesive path for her students with the philos- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 ophy that it takes a community to raise chil- OF MICHIGAN dren, and together as a school, we will be that Ms. SINEMA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES positive impact in our community. Before the honor the life and legacy of Rodney Lewis Tuesday, April 17, 2018 first day of school, Principal Dawson invited all who passed away on April 10, 2018 at the age Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I in- sixth-graders to write her a letter asking for of 77. Mr. Lewis was an Arizona native and a clude in the RECORD the following Proclama- feedback on their individual learning experi- member of the Gila River Indian Community. tion: ences. From this letter-writing campaign, Prin- He became a trailblazer in water policy, tribal Whereas, the 8th Congressional District of cipal Dawson and the Brambleton Middle sovereignty, and Indian law. Our state will Michigan joins in celebration as we com- School community formed the BAM Ambas- miss him dearly. memorate Wayne Lynn as he is recognized sadors, a group of 30 kids selected to serve In 1980, Mr. Lewis was the first Native with the Community Service Award by the the community as school leaders. By soliciting American attorney to appear before the Su- Greater Lansing Area Club. suggestions and forming the BAM Ambas- preme Court. As the lead attorney for the Gila Whereas, Mr. Lynn dedicated his career to sadors, Principal Dawson and the Brambleton River community, Mr. Lewis won part of the helping men and women develop themselves Middle School leadership team set a founda- largest tribal water settlement in U.S. history. and their faith. Mr. Lynn is the Chairman of tion for the school as it continues to grow. He also was the founding chair of Arizona the Deacon’s Ministry at Union Missionary The hard work these students put towards Bar’s Indian Law section. In 2017, he was ap- where he teaches a Men’s Bible Study. He their academics and their unwavering commit- pointed to the Central Arizona Water Con- also serves as the Chairman of the Board of ment to civic engagement is inspiring. I hope servation District Board. The board helps to directors for the Turning Point of Lansing their curiosity and tenacity persists in future manage the Central Arizona Project, where where he leads a mentoring program for the endeavors, and they continue to make a dif- Mr. Lewis was able to represent tribal inter- growth of young men into adults. He has ference. ests. shared his knowledge and passion with those Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join Mr. Lewis served in the United States Army around him and dedicated himself to the me in recognizing Brambleton Middle School’s from 1962 to 1965 where he served as a ideals that advance our community. inaugural year, and I wish each student many Ranger and achieved the rank of First Lieuten- Let it be known, that the Member of the more successes as they continue their edu- ant. He received his bachelor’s of science United States Congress, the Honorable Mi- cation. from Trinity University in 1962, a master’s in chael D. Bishop of the 8th Congressional Dis- f history from Arizona State University in 1969, trict of the State of Michigan, hereby recog- RECOGNIZING BAY COUNTY and a law degree from the University of Cali- nizes Wayne Lynn for his outstanding achieve- SHERIFF TOMMY FORD fornia, Los Angeles in 1972. ments. Therefore, this document is signed and Mr. Lewis is survived by his wife, dedicated to honor this milestone. May others Wiilardene, daughter Katherine Elizabeth, know of my warmest wishes and continued HON. NEAL P. DUNN sons Stephen Roe and John Blaine, and a support in the future. OF FLORIDA host of grandchildren. His son, Stephen, cur- f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES rently serves as Governor of the Gila River In- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 dian Community. Please join me in honoring IN RECOGNITION OF BRAMBLETON his memory. MIDDLE SCHOOL’S INAUGURAL Mr. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- f YEAR ognize Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford for being appointed by Governor Rick Scott to the THE PILATUS GROUP HON. BARBARA COMSTOCK Florida Criminal Justice Standards and Train- OF VIRGINIA ing Commission. Tommy started his law en- HON. ED PERLMUTTER IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES forcement career working for this commission OF COLORADO and has now risen to the pinnacle of his pro- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES fession. Sheriff Ford’s leadership in Bay Coun- Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today ty has not gone unnoticed. Tuesday, April 17, 2018 to recognize Brambleton Middle School in Sheriff Ford joins law enforcement leaders Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Ashburn, Virginia as they celebrate their inau- from across Florida to establish state-wide law today to honor The Pilatus Group for being gural year with a Day on Capitol Hill. enforcement standards and training programs

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.027 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E487 that certify officers are prepared to carry out COMMEMORATING PFC LEO J. HONORING NORMA FULINARA their duties. Sheriff Ford is a native of North- POWERS AND 2LT ROBERT CRAIG PLACIDO west Florida, and has honorably served Bay County as a law enforcement officer for over HON. K. MICHAEL CONAWAY HON. MIKE THOMPSON 25 years. He was elected Sheriff of Bay Coun- OF TEXAS OF CALIFORNIA ty in 2016. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, please join me in congratu- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 lating Bay County Sheriff Tommy Ford for his Tuesday, April 17, 2018 appointment to this commission and thanking Mr. CONAWAY. Mr Speaker, I rise today to Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, him for his record of exemplary service pro- recognize two Medal of Honor recipients, PFC I rise today to honor Norma Fulinara Placido tecting Northwest Florida. Leo J. Powers and 2LT Robert Craig, who will as she retires from 20 years of service as the be included on the Ft. Wolters Medal of Honor President of the Filipino Community of Solano County. f Memorial in Mineral Wells, Texas on April 28, Ms. Placido was born in San Felipe, 2018. Zambales, Philippines. She graduated with a TRIBUTE IN HONOR OF DOWNTOWN Established in 2013, the Medal of Honor Bachelor of Science in Elementary Education HOWELL, MICHIGAN Memorial lies at the heart of the quiet Ft. from Philippine Christian University and taught Wolters Historical park. This memorial features at an elementary school in her hometown until stone columns currently features the names of she immigrated to the United States in 1971. HON. MIKE BISHOP sixteen Medal of Honor recipients who trained There she joined her husband, Leonardo at Ft. Wolters inscribed upon them. These in- OF MICHIGAN Placido, who was serving in the U.S. Navy. scriptions share the stories of these heroes While her husband was stationed in San Fran- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and the gallant actions they took to earn this cisco, California, Ms. Placido returned to honor. Later this month, two more individuals Tuesday, April 17, 2018 school at Peralta College where she studied will be inscribed on this memorial, PFC Leo J data processing. They later moved to Solano Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I rise Powers and 2LT Robert Craig. County where they raised their three daugh- today to honor a small town in my district On February 3, 1944, PFC Leo was serving ters, Norielyn, Arlene, and Lena. which was recently named a recipient of the in the 133rd Infantry Regiment, 34th Infantry During her 20 year tenure as President of 2018 Great American Main Street Award. Division, who were heavily engaged with Axis the Filipino Community of Solano County, Ms. Over the last twelve years, downtown Howell, Forces in the Battle of Monte Cassino. PFC Placido helped raise over $170,000 to provide Michigan has completely transformed from a Powers’ company was assigned to seize the scholarships for Filipino-American students community threatened by Michigan’s economic heavily defended Hill 175. The Germans sup- pursuing higher education. She also spear- downturn to one that is thriving and charging pressed Powers and his fellow soldiers by fir- headed major renovations of the Filipino Com- ahead into the future. With its historical charm ing mortars and heavy machine gun fire. Un- munity Center. She oversaw and fundraised and beautiful architecture, downtown Howell is able to advance and casualties mounting, for the remodel of the original center and full of local art galleries and quaint parks. Powers crawled towards the enemy strong- eventually the purchase of a newer and bigger Chosen by a national jury of community de- holds and destroyed them using hand gre- building that was better equipped to meet the velopment professionals, the Great American nades. After destroying the last of these posts, needs of the Filipino community. Finally, under Main Street award recognizes communities Powers took the surrender of four wounded her leadership, the Filipino Community of So- whose successes serve as a model for preser- Germans while unarmed Almost a year later, lano County contributed eyeglasses, books, vation-based commercial revitalization. As a President Franklin D Roosevelt awarded Pow- and much needed funds to the survivors of small town that is doing big things, Downtown ers with the Medal of Honor on January 10, devastating natural disasters in the Phil- Howell is setting itself apart as a great place 1945. ippines. Ms. Placido has led the organization for businesses, families, and everything in be- Born in Scotland in 1919, Robert Craig emi- with continued strength, humility, and fortitude. tween. Great things are happening in the grated with his family to Toledo Ohio. In 1941, She has been a great asset to the lives of all Comeback State, Mr. Speaker. I look forward Craig enlisted in the Army before WWII and Filipino-Americans in our community. to what’s to come. becoming a citizen. By 1943, Craig commis- Ms. Placido also mentors other Filipino- sioned as an officer and was a Second Lieu- Americans in our community, with an aim to f tenant with the 15th Infantry Regiment, part of nurture their talents. Additionally, she pro- the 3rd Infantry Division. In the early morning motes political empowerment and has helped GINA RIVAS of July 10, 1943, 2LT Craig stormed ashore Filipinos seeking public office, assisting may- with his unit in the Licata area on the Gulf of oral and city council candidates in Vallejo as Gela during the Invasion of Sicily. Over the their campaign manager. HON. ED PERLMUTTER next twenty-four hours, an enemy machine Mr. Speaker, Norma Fulinara Placido de- gun wounded multiple officers in Craig’s unit. OF COLORADO serves to be recognized today for her leader- He volunteered to find and destroy it Shortly ship and commitment to the Filipino Commu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES after, the platoon he led was counter-attacked nity of Solano County. I am proud to have by an enemy force that was three times larger. Tuesday, April 17, 2018 such a motivated and charitable person living He used himself as a diversion to allow his and working in our community. It is therefore Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise men to reach cover along a hill crest. 2LT fitting and proper that we honor her here today to recognize and honor Gina Rivas for Craig’s heroic actions and self-sacrifice in- today. spired his men and rallied them to defeat the receiving the 2017 Image Award from the Ar- f vada Chamber of Commerce. superior force. 2LT Craig was posthumously awarded our nation’s highest honor on May THE B IN BUSH, RAISING THE Each year the Arvada Chamber recognizes 26, 1944. BAR—IN HONOR OF FIRST LADY Arvada’s finest men and women for their in- We are blessed to live in a country with indi- BARBARA BUSH volvement and dedication to the community. viduals like the ones honored at Ft. Wolters As the principal of Arvada High School, Gina Their actions embody our nation’s greatest HON. PETE SESSIONS has gone above and beyond to portray a posi- ideals. They proceeded without hesitation to tive, kind and community minded image in Ar- OF TEXAS put their country’s needs, and more impor- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES vada. Every day she works to change the tantly, the lives of the men around them, be- story of Arvada High School and improve the fore their own. Their stories of honor and sac- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 outcomes for her students, which ensures a rifice represent an important part of our na- Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in bright future for our families and our commu- tion’s history. honor of one of truly great First Ladies in our nity. It is with great pleasure and honor that I am Nation’s history, Barbara Bush. As great as a Congratulations to Gina Rivas for this well- able to share PFC Leo J. Powers and 2LT First Lady she was, it pales in comparison to deserved award, and I thank her for her con- Robert Craig story with all of my colleagues in the kind of Mother, Wife, matriarch, and tribution to our community. the House. Grandmother she is. A great role model for all

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.031 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E488 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2018 young women to follow. Our Nation’s prayers TRIBUTE IN HONOR OF CORDELL Major Kenneth J. ‘‘Rock’’ Merritt. During his 35 go out to her and family. I include in the HENDERSON years of dedicated service, CSM Merritt RECORD this poem penned in her honor by Al- served valiantly, made history and showed us bert Carey Caswell. HON. MIKE BISHOP all how to be a family man. OF MICHIGAN After enlisting in the United States Army in THE B IN BUSH, RAISING THE BAR IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 1942, CSM Merritt began his military career as a Private to Technical Sergeant in the HQ1 (By Albert Carey Caswell) Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Light Machine Gun Platoon. Serving in combat The B in Bush, Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I in- all over the world allowed CSM Merritt to gain Raising The Bar clude in the RECORD the following Proclama- valuable experience that would shape his dis- In every family tion: In every house tinguished career. Completing over 200 para- Whereas, the 8th Congressional District of chute jumps, he was awarded a Gold Century There is the greatest spouse Michigan joins in celebration as we com- The one who brings life into this world so all Parachute Badge by the Original Airborne As- memorate Cordell Henderson as he is recog- without sociation. While stationed at Fort Bragg, lo- Because, The Mother is The Heart of any nized with the Frederick Douglass Award by cated in North Carolina’s Eighth Congressional home inside and out the Greater Lansing Area Club. District, CSM Merritt made history for serving From which all great things come from no Whereas, Mr. Henderson dedicated his ca- two tours as CSM of the XVIII Airborne Corps. doubt reer to helping both children and adults further In 1973, he was selected as one of the five Who bring the gift of life and love to this their education for 45 years. Serving as a Command Sergeant Majors in the Army al- world to shout school principal, director of education, coun- lowed to serve five years beyond the manda- And who nurture and teach and raise their selor and on multiple school boards and com- tory 30 years service prescribed by Army Reg- children with a love so devout mittees, he changed and bettered the lives of ulations. Additionally, CSM Merritt served five And in that great American family of the countless members of our community over the terms as President of the 508th Parachute In- Bush’s, course of his life. He has shared his knowl- fantry Regiment Association, three terms as Barbara is The B in Bush clearly no doubt. edge and passion with those around him and Vice President of the Association and many Raising The Bar in what a Mother and Ma- dedicated himself to the ideals that advance years as Association Parliamentarian. triarch and First Lady are all about our community. With the kind of grace, strength, leadership, Deployed on numerous operational assign- Let it be known, that the Member of the ments all over the globe and through some of love, and example this world cannot United States Congress, the Honorable Mi- live our nation’s toughest times, CSM Merritt stood chael D. Bishop of the 8th Congressional Dis- ready to answer the call to serve our nation. Without. trict of the State of Michigan, hereby recog- And love and dedication which brings tears Throughout these operations, he delivered on to our Lord’s eyes, nizes Cordell Henderson for his outstanding the promise to keep America safe and con- and make’s The Angels up oh high shout achievements. Therefore, this document is front our enemies under the most difficult con- For Barbara Bush is the pillar upon which signed and dedicated to honor this milestone. ditions. this great American family was built May others know of my warmest wishes and During these deployments, CSM Merritt re- upon, continued support in the future. ceived numerous medals and recognitions for so all throughout f his service, including the Silver Star Medal, The rock and foundation we know of now SAS MANUFACTURING Legion of Merit Medal, Bronze Star Medal with With that great love story of her and George two oak/leaf clusters, Meritorious Service Herbert Walker so all throughout Medal with two clusters, Army Commendation Who built such a great American family of HON. ED PERLMUTTER Medal with three clusters, Combat Infantry love and accomplishment, OF COLORADO Badge, Presidential Unit Citation, Masters for all the world to tout IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Parachutists Badge with two combat jump Such a woman of character, strength, and Tuesday, April 17, 2018 class, stars, National Defense Medal, European The- the kind of example to all our children we Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise ater of Operations Medal with Invasion Arrow- must pass today to honor SAS Manufacturing for being head and four battle stars, European Victory For these are the things in life and into the recognized as the 2017 Business Recognition Medal, and the Occupation Medal with Ger- future that which last Award winner by the Jefferson County Eco- many Bar. Like The Beatles said, nomic Development Corporation (Jeffco EDC). While fighting our nation’s battles overseas, ‘‘and in the end the love you send is equal to The Business Recognition Award shows ap- CSM Merritt’s most important commitment re- the number you make’’ preciation for a local company who has shown mained to his family back home. He was mar- In 73 years, exceptional growth in primary employment, ried to his lovely wife, Sally, for more than 60 through heart break, triumph, happiness and sales and/or capital investments in the last years before she passed away, and they tears year. SAS Manufacturing is an advanced man- raised three wonderful children during CMS Barbara’s and George’s great love has all of ufacturing firm with more than a decade of ex- Merritt’s illustrious career. This country cannot us endeared perience providing cutting-edge solutions to repay the debt we owe to CSM Merritt and his And even though he would not eat his broc- aerospace, aviation, defense and energy orga- family—the Merritts are true American heroes. coli it was clear, Mr. Speaker, please join me today in com- she still stood by her man here nizations worldwide. Today, it is a 21st Cen- And now these words seem so clear tury manufacturing facility capable of meeting memorating the career of the Command Ser- For all our children to blossom and grow the rigorous standards of clients in aerospace, geant Major Kenneth J. ‘‘Rock’’ Merritt. To find happiness know defense, energy and many commercial indus- f tries where accuracy and precision are mis- We must pass on to them such love and les- IN RECOGNITION OF THE VALUE sion critical. sons so OF THE U.S.-GUATEMALA RELA- Of a Mother’s Love like Barbara’s to know, Congratulations to SAS Manufacturing for TIONSHIP of such caring and warmth for a child to be- this well-deserved award, and I thank them for come whole their contribution to our community. And Heaven holds a place f HON. RICHARD E. NEAL For all loving and dedicated Mother’s like OF MASSACHUSETTS you Barbara, HONORING THE CAREER OF COM- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES whose precious moments upon this world do MAND SERGEANT MAJOR KEN- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 not waste NETH J. ‘‘ROCK’’ MERRITT With all of your love and grace. Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I had a productive For you are the B in The Bush family, and informative meeting last Friday, April 13, HON. RICHARD HUDSON with Manuel Espina, Guatemala’s Ambassador the foundation, OF NORTH CAROLINA the pillar who raised The Bar make no mis- to the United States. We discussed the strong IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES take, economic relationship between our two coun- And for you my love, HEAVEN AWAITS, Tuesday, April 17, 2018 tries and our cooperative efforts to address And you will look into your daughter Rob- Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to drug trafficking and terrorism. I was particu- in’s face. recognize the career of Command Sergeant larly pleased to learn that Guatemala has

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.035 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E489 taken strong efforts on border security, includ- ing, and Math. As a result of those efforts, loved community leader and longtime local tel- ing by detaining 44 individuals with possible Girls of Steel are often featured in print media evision personality well known throughout my ties to ISIS who were traveling with false doc- and blog posts. hometown of Baton Rouge, Louisiana and the uments with the intention of using Guatemala For the first time, they were also regional fi- surrounding area. Mrs. Britt will be recognized as a transit point to reach the United States. nalists at MVR with their award-winning robot. with the prestigious 12 Points Award at a Boy I look forward to continuing working with my I think that their remarkable accomplish- Scouts ceremony this month—a reward re- Guatemalan colleagues to strengthen the rela- ments speak volumes about the dedication served for high caliber leaders whose lives tionship between our two countries. these young women have demonstrated in embody the 12 traits that the program seeks f pursuing STEM careers, their ability to sustain to instill in its participants: trustworthiness, loy- their team, and the thousands of hours they alty, helpfulness, friendliness, courteousness, GIRLS OF STEEL have spent collectively doing outreach in the kindness, obedience, cheerfulness, thriftiness, community. bravery, cleanliness and reverence. You’d be HON. MICHAEL F. DOYLE Seventy-one young women from 8th through hard pressed, Mr. Speaker, to find a more fit- OF PENNSYLVANIA 12th grades associated with schools located in ting recipient than Donna, who has been a IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and around the Pittsburgh area represent this shining example of these values through her Tuesday, April 17, 2018 year’s Girls of Steel program, and in recogni- professional and personal life. An accom- tion of their hard work, intelligence, and team- plished woman in media, Donna is a Public Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsylvania. work, I would like to mention each of these in- Relations Association of Louisiana Communi- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to commend the spiring young ladies by name. They are Alex- cator of the Year and a recipient of the Life- Girls of Steel robotics team on winning the andria Adams, Aeryn Anderson, Meghna time Achievement Award from the Louisiana Chairman’s Award at the March 2018 Greater Behari, Emilia Bianchini, Emma Burnett, Association of Broadcasters, the Award of Ex- Pittsburgh Regional FIRST Robotics Competi- Gracie Cain, Rosy Chen, Suan Cho, Maria cellence from Women in Media and the Volun- tion in California, Pennsylvania. Chutko, Maya Cranor, Claire Cummings, teer Activist Award from the Emerge Center. This prestigious award honors the team that Maansi Dasari, Riley Doyle, Anna Fedele, She is also a breast cancer survivor currently best represents a model for other teams to Rozie Fero, Isabella Florian, Alexandra battling a recent ALS diagnosis. Despite these emulate—and best embodies the purpose and George, Teadora Gildengers, Corinne Hart- medical challenges, Donna’s resilience and goals of FIRST. This award qualifies them to man, Sofia Heller, Kristina Hilko, Maia warmth are unwavering—a mentality perhaps attend Championships that will be held in De- Hochheiser, Anna Jablonowski, Caroline best revealed through her own personal troit, Michigan, at the end of April 2018. Kenney, Janise Kim, Isabelle Kowenhoven, mantra: ‘‘meet each new challenge and mas- FIRST, which stands for ‘‘For Inspiration Mary Laird, Alice Liu, Sally Liu, Eve Mango, ter it.’’ Reflecting on her life and career in a and Recognition of Science and Technology,’’ Svea McCann, Delaynie McMillan, Sree recent interview, she remarked, ‘‘I’ve been is an organization dedicated to engaging our Mekala, Lauren Michaels, Abbey Murcek, very blessed, and challenges remind us what students in STEM fields. Hundreds of thou- Anna Nesbitt, Anne Kailin Northam, Jimin Oh, is important in life.’’ Well, Mr. Speaker, on be- sands of students gain practical, team-based Helen Paulini, Lehka Pendyala, Emma half of countless people across South Lou- engineering experiences through FIRST every Prokop, Grace Raida, Lauren Raida, Ananya isiana who have been blessed by Donna Britt, year. Rao, Priya Ray, Sedona Rocher, Rachel I’d like to point out that her example helps re- As a founder and co-chair of the Congres- Sadeh, Brittany Sadej, Lauren Scheller-Wolf, mind all of us about what is important in life. sional Robotics Caucus, I believe competitions Sarah Seay, Alexa Selwood, Swathi Senthil, Congratulations, Donna, on this well-deserved like these are incredible tools for helping our Kriti Shah, Vivian Shao, Lauren Shovlin, award. young people to explore potential careers in Makayla Shreve, Isha Sinha, Amari Smith, f STEM. I’ve witnessed firsthand the incredible Imani Smith, Kavya Soman, Aditi Srivastava, economic growth and development that these Anna Staresinic, Aditri Thakur, Mikayla Trost, PERSONAL EXPLANATION fields can bring in my home district, and I Langley Turcsanyi, Anja Vojt, Janet Wang, Al- strongly believe that these fields are crucial to exandria Westray, Rebecca Wettergreen, Ziya HON. SALUD O. CARBAJAL our nation’s future prosperity. I want to com- Xu, and Julia Young. OF CALIFORNIA mend organizations like FIRST for their impor- Additionally, I want to commend the faculty IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES tant work in encouraging young people in and staff of Carnegie Mellon University’s Field Tuesday, April 17, 2018 these pursuits. The FIRST Robotics Competi- Robotics Center, who have mentored the Girls Mr. CARBAJAL. Mr. Speaker, on April 16, tion allows students to apply creativity and crit- of Steel since 2010. As a result of their efforts, 2018, I missed votes in the House in order to ical thinking in the demanding and competitive more young women experience real-world attend funeral services for my late brother. field of robotics, all while instilling a strong technological challenges and learn from some sense of pride in participants. Had I been present, I would have voted: of the nation’s best at solving these problems. AYE on Roll Call No. 140—the Eastern Band Thomas Pope, Systems Manager for the In- These experiences will certainly benefit these stitute for Software Research at Carnegie Mel- of Cherokee Historic Lands Reacquisition Act, young women in the future. H.R. 146; and AYE on Roll Call No. 141—the lon University’s School of Computer Science, I look forward to hearing about their won the prestigious Woodie Flowers Finalist National Memorial to Fallen Educators Act, S. progress as they advance to the FIRST Dis- 167. Award at the Greater Pittsburgh Regional trict Championship in Detroit—one of the larg- competition. This award is presented to an est competitions of its kind. It’s the equivalent f outstanding mentor in the robotics competition of the Super Bowl for robotics. This will be IN HONOR OF PETER AND JOANNE who best leads, inspires, and empowers their their eighth consecutive trip in eight years and LINDAHL’S 50TH WEDDING ANNI- team using excellent communication skills in they will be competing against top teams from VERSARY the art and science of engineering and design. all over the world. Kristina Hilko, a junior from Penn Hills High I want to congratulate the Girls of Steel on School, was a FIRST Dean’s List Finalist at HON. LIZ CHENEY their accomplishments. I wish them the best of OF WYOMING the Greater Pittsburgh Regional competition. luck in the upcoming robotics competition as IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES This award recognizes an outstanding student well as continued success in their future aca- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 leader whose passion for, and effectiveness demic and professional endeavors. at, attaining FIRST ideals is exemplary. f Ms. CHENEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to In March at the FIRST Miami Valley Re- extend my congratulations to Peter and Jo- gional (MVR) in Ohio, the Girls of Steel won HONORING MRS. DONNA BRITT anne Lindahl on the celebration of their 50th the FIRST Team Spirit award that celebrates Wedding Anniversary. extraordinary enthusiasm and spirit through HON. GARRET GRAVES This significant benchmark is a symbol of exceptional partnership and teamwork in fur- OF LOUISIANA their commitment to each other and to their thering the objectives of FIRST. This award IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES family. I am happy to join their friends and recognizes the impact that these young family in extending my best to them on this women are having in our community as they Tuesday, April 17, 2018 special occasion. enthusiastically spread the word about FIRST Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. Mr. Speaker, I Again, Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend and STEM—Science, Technology, Engineer- rise today to recognize Mrs. Donna Britt, a be- my congratulations to Peter and Joanne on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.038 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS E490 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks April 17, 2018 the celebration of their 50th Wedding Anniver- TRIBUTE IN HONOR OF THERESA America, one of the richest countries in the sary. I wish them the best today and for many RANDLEMAN world, should be able to help families caught more blessed years to come. in, to use the celebrated LBJ biographer Rob- HON. MIKE BISHOP ert Caro’s famous phrase, the ‘‘tentacles of f OF MICHIGAN circumstance.’’ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES However, we have a president who is insen- HONORING JACKSON SCOTT sitive to the plights of every day Americans. GARRETT Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Trump and the conservative acolytes who Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speaker, I in- seek to implement his agenda paint an inac- HON. SAM GRAVES clude in the RECORD the following Proclama- curate portrayal of poor people as lazy ‘‘Wel- tion: fare Queens’’ who would rather depend on the OF MISSOURI Whereas, the 8th Congressional District of government than pull themselves up by their IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Michigan joins in celebration as we com- bootstraps, but nothing could be further from Tuesday, April 17, 2018 memorate Theresa Randleman as she is rec- the true reality that millions of Americans face. ognized with the Business Excellence Award Mr. Speaker, the President should know that Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, I by the Greater Lansing Area Club. it is unreasonable to expect the poorest peo- proudly pause to recognize Jackson Garrett. Whereas, Ms. Randleman has dedicated ple to pull themselves up by their bootstraps Jackson is a very special young man who has her career to speaking on behalf of women when they do not have boots. exemplified the finest qualities of citizenship and female youth with an emphasis on pro- Our nation’s social safety net programs al- and leadership by taking an active part in the ducing, hosting, and sponsoring female em- ready fail to help all of the families in need: Boy Scouts of America, Troop 314, and earn- powerment programs. Her work ranges from Only 1 in 4 poor families with children re- ing the most prestigious award of Eagle Scout. international speaking which empowers ceive Temporary Assistance for Needy Fami- Jackson has been very active with his troop, women across the globe, to hosting local lies (TANF); participating in many scout activities. Over the Expos which guide aspiring female entre- SNAP only provide $1.40/per meal; and many years Jackson has been involved with preneurs on the path to success. She has Housing assistance reaches just 1 in 5 eligi- scouting, he has not only earned numerous shared her knowledge and passion all around ble families. merit badges, but also the respect of his fam- the world and dedicated herself to the ideals That is because the federal government has ily, peers, and community. Most notably, Jack- that advance our community. failed to raise the minimum wage in almost a son has contributed to his community through Let it be known, that the Member of the decade, so even if you work a full-time min- his Eagle Scout project. United States Congress, the Honorable MI- imum wage job, you are still living in poverty. Mr. Speaker, I proudly ask you to join me in CHAEL D. BISHOP of the 8th Congressional Dis- Members of the CBC are here to tell the commending Jackson for his accomplishments trict of the State of Michigan, hereby recog- American people, do not be fooled. with the Boy Scouts of America and for his ef- nizes Theresa Randleman for her outstanding Donald Trump says this is about a ‘‘poverty forts put forth in achieving the highest distinc- achievements. Therefore, this document is trap,’’ but the real trap is not raising the min- tion of Eagle Scout. signed and dedicated to honor this milestone. imum wage. May others know of my warmest wishes and The President opposes increasing the min- f continued support in the future. imum wage and eliminating labor protections f for middle and lower income workers in the Af- STEM PROGRAM AT WHEAT RIDGE rican American community. HIGH SCHOOL TRUMP REPUBLICANS ARE WAG- Mr. Speaker, raising the minimum wage to ING WAR ON THE WORKING just $12 per hour would save $53 billion in HON. ED PERLMUTTER POOR SNAP benefits alone. Wage gaps between are larger today than OF COLORADO HON. SHEILA JACKSON LEE they were in 1979. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF TEXAS For example, African American men’s aver- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES age hourly wages were 22.2 percent lower than those of white men in 1979 and declined Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Tuesday, April 17, 2018 to 31.0 percent lower by 2015. today to honor the STEM Program at Wheat Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise Young African American women have been Ridge High School for being recognized as the today to voice my opposition to Executive hardest hit since 2000. 2017 Horizon Award winner by the Jefferson Order 13828, entitled ‘‘Reducing Poverty in The racial wealth gap is much larger than County Economic Development Corporation America by Promoting Opportunity and Eco- the wage or income gap by race. (Jeffco EDC). nomic Mobility,’’ issued by the President last Average wealth for white families is seven The Horizon Award recognizes an organiza- Tuesday, April 10, 2018. times higher than average wealth for African tion or program that is a rising star in the com- The President would have the American American families. munity and will contribute to the future eco- people believe he is bringing the country to- Worse still, median white wealth (wealth for nomic vitality of Jefferson County. Established gether and growing the economy for all Ameri- the family in the exact middle of the overall in 2014, Wheat Ridge High School’s STEM cans. distribution—wealthier than half of all families Program focuses on taking science, tech- Nothing could be further from the truth. and less-wealthy than half) is twelve times nology, engineering & math taught in class Executive Order 13828 is a thinly-veiled at- higher than median African American wealth. and using it in a real-world application through tempt to restrict access to health care, hous- Wage gaps are growing primarily because the building of concept vehicles. Since it was ing, food, and many other basic living pro- of discrimination and racial differences in skills created, it has expanded to 80 students. The grams by adding onerous ‘‘work require- and worker characteristics. cost to run the STEM program is approxi- ments.’’ Declining unionization has also had a role in mately $50,000 per year and 80 percent of These social safety net programs provide the growing black-white wage gap, particularly these funds are raised by the students them- necessary government assistance to help for men newly joining the workforce. selves, expanding their learning opportunity Americans families maintain a basic standard African Americans have been disproportion- into fundraising and finance. Participating stu- of living, and are a safety net for the poorest ately affected by the growing gap between pay dents are responsible for all their own fund- of the poor. and productivity. raising, marketing, social media and Millions of Americans, despite working two Not only are the President’s policies divisive videography. The Wheat Ridge High School jobs, depend on these programs just to keep along racial and cultural lines, they also serve STEM Program gives students real world ex- food on the table and a roof over their heads to further increase economic inequality due to perience from concept to implementation and for their families. their clear design in favor of the wealthiest everything in between. In addition, the vast majority of full-time among us at the expense of everyone else. Congratulations to the STEM Program at workers live paycheck to paycheck. Trump’s billionaire tax heist robs the U.S. Wheat Ridge High School for this well-de- In fact, 70 percent of Americans rely on at Treasury of $1.5 trillion in resources that could served award, and I thank them for their con- least one means tested federal program be invested in economic growth in under- tribution to our community. throughout their lives. served communities.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.042 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E491 The President has proposed doubling down HONORING THE 90TH ANNIVER- ing the 1989 Loma Prieta and 2011 Napa on mass incarceration and the war on drugs, SARY OF CALTRANS STRUCTURE earthquakes. which drains the African American labor pool. MAINTENANCE & INVESTIGA- Mr. Speaker, Caltrans Office of Structure TIONS Maintenance & Investigations and its employ- The President has taken every opportunity ees have kept California’s highways and to harm health care for African-Americans HON. MIKE THOMPSON bridges safe. It is therefore fitting and proper from sabotaging the ACA to ending Medicaid OF CALIFORNIA that we honor the Office and employees past as we know it. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and present today. This president is no friend to African Ameri- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 f cans, or their pocket books. Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, ZIMMER BIOMET SPINE Trump also wants you to believe that he I rise today to honor the California Department wants a bipartisan infrastructure plan. of Transportation (Caltrans) Office of Structure Maintenance & Investigations upon the occa- HON. ED PERLMUTTER Do not be fooled. sion of its 90th anniversary since its creation. OF COLORADO Trump’s review of ‘‘welfare programs’’ is an The Office of Structure Maintenance & In- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES immoral attempt to gut the programs that pro- vestigations engineers and structural techni- Tuesday, April 17, 2018 vide a basic standard of living for Americans cians perform ongoing inspection of more than Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I rise struggling to make ends meet, all to pay for 24,000 state highway and locally owned bridges within the boundaries of the Golden today to honor Zimmer Biomet Spine for being massive tax cuts to himself and the richest 1 recognized as the 2017 Business Recognition percent. State. They ensure the safety of the traveling public and to protect the public’s multi-billion Award winner by the Jefferson County Eco- Instead, he should raise wages and invest dollar investment in its bridge inventory; and nomic Development Corporation (Jeffco EDC). in job training programs to prepare Americans Since its creation in 1927 California’s bridge The Business Recognition Award shows ap- for the work of the future. inspection unit has completed nearly 770,000 preciation for a local company who has shown exceptional growth in primary employment, Mr. Speaker, our nation still has a long way routine bridge inspections, and thousands of special steel, underwater, hydraulic, sign sales and/or capital investments in the last to go before we achieve economic equality for structure and tunnel inspections. The bridge year. Zimmer Biomet Spine is a leader in re- all its citizens. inspection program has become the model for storing mobility, alleviating pain, and improving The President and Congressional Repub- other bridge departments in the United States the quality of life for patients around the world licans should work with Democrats to put and around the world. by delivering surgeons a comprehensive port- more money in the pockets of hardworking Structure Maintenance & Investigations, folio of quality spine technologies and proce- Americans. based on the findings of its inspections, has dural innovation. It maintains world-class sci- worked with its District Maintenance counter- entific facilities and resources and collaborates At the end of the day, our constituents parts to complete hundreds of millions of re- with leading clinicians and researchers around should be able to support their children with pairs to ensure the safety and structural integ- the world. Today, it has operations in more one full-time job. rity of each public agency bridge in California. than 25 countries and sells products in more Ultimately, we need to give families the The dedicated personnel of Structure Mainte- than 100 countries. tools they need to rise out of poverty, not un- nance & Investigations has responded over its Congratulations to Zimmer Biomet Spine for dercut programs that keep them afloat. nine decades of service to every emergency this well-deserved award, and I thank them for impacting the state’s bridge inventory, includ- their contribution to our community.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:19 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17AP8.045 E17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with REMARKS Tuesday, April 17, 2018 Daily Digest Senate of Rule XXII, the vote on the motion to invoke clo- Chamber Action ture with respect to the House message to accom- Routine Proceedings, pages S2191–S2226 pany S. 140, to amend the White Mountain Apache Measures Introduced: Eleven bills and three reso- Tribe Water Rights Quantification Act of 2010 to lutions were introduced, as follows: S. 2681–2691, clarify the use of amounts in the WMAT Settlement and S. Res. 470–472. Page S2218 Fund, occur following disposition of S.J. Res. 57. Measures Passed: Page S2225 Hack the Department of Homeland Security Appointments: Act: Senate passed S. 1281, to establish a bug boun- Migratory Bird Conservation Commission: The ty pilot program within the Department of Home- Chair announced, on behalf of the Majority Leader, land Security, after agreeing to the committee pursuant to Public Law 70–770, the appointment of amendment in the nature of a substitute, and the the following individual to the Migratory Bird Con- following amendment proposed thereto: servation Commission: Senator Boozman. Page S2223 Pages S2223–25 McConnell (for Hassan) Amendment No. 2238, of Muniz Nomination—Agreement: Senate began a perfecting nature. Page S2224 consideration of the nomination of Carlos G. Muniz, of Florida, to be General Counsel, Department of Vietnam Veterans Day: Senate agreed to S. Res. Education. Pages S2193–99 471, designating March 29, 2018, as ‘‘Vietnam Vet- A unanimous-consent-time agreement was reached erans Day’’. Page S2225 providing that notwithstanding Rule XXII, if appli- Gold Star Wives Day: Senate agreed to S. Res. cable, at 1 p.m., on Wednesday, April 18, 2018, 472, designating April 5, 2018, as ‘‘Gold Star Wives Senate continue consideration of the nomination, Day’’. Page S2225 with one hour of debate remaining, equally divided Measures Considered: between Senator Gillibrand, or her designee, and Indirect Auto Lending and Compliance With Senator Alexander, or his designee, on the nomina- the Equal Credit Opportunity Act—Agreement: tion; and that following the use or yielding back of Senate began consideration of S.J. Res. 57, providing that time, Senate vote on confirmation of the nomi- for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of title nation under the previous orders of April 9, 2018 5, United States Code, of the rule submitted by Bu- and April 16, 2018. Page S2199 reau of Consumer Financial Protection relating to ‘‘Indirect Auto Lending and Compliance with the Nominations Received: Senate received the fol- Equal Credit Opportunity Act’’, after agreeing to the lowing nominations: motion to proceed. Pages S2200–11, S2211–15 David Fabian Black, of North Dakota, to be Dep- During consideration of this measure today, Senate uty Commissioner of Social Security for the term ex- also took the following action: piring January 19, 2019. By 50 yeas to 47 nays (Vote No. 75), Senate Andrew M. Saul, of New York, to be Commis- agreed to the motion to proceed to consideration of sioner of Social Security for the term expiring Janu- the joint resolution. Page S2200 ary 19, 2019. A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- Andrew M. Saul, of New York, to be Commis- viding for further consideration of the joint resolu- sioner of Social Security for the term expiring Janu- tion at approximately 9:30 a.m., on Wednesday, ary 19, 2025. April 18, 2018, with the time until 12 noon, equal- Alexander Crenshaw, of Florida, to be a Member ly divided between the managers, or their designees; of the Board of Directors of the Millennium Chal- that at 12 noon, Senate vote on passage of the joint lenge Corporation for a term of three years. resolution; and that notwithstanding the provisions D404

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP8.REC D17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with DIGEST April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D405 Louis DeJoy, of North Carolina, to be a Member serve, and Lieutenant General Rex C. McMillian, of the Board of Directors of the Overseas Private In- Commander, Marine Corps Forces Reserve, all of the vestment Corporation for a term expiring December Department of Defense. 17, 2020. Frederick Perpall, of Texas, to be a Member of the NOMINATIONS Board of Directors of the Overseas Private Invest- Committee on Armed Services: Committee concluded a ment Corporation for a term expiring December 17, hearing to examine the nominations of Admiral 2020. Susan M. McCue, of Virginia, to be a Member of Philip S. Davidson, USN, for reappointment to the the Board of Directors of the Millennium Challenge grade of admiral and to be Commander, United Corporation for a term of two years. States Pacific Command, and General Terrence J. Victoria Ann Hughes, of Virginia, to be a Mem- O’Shaughnessy, USAF, for reappointment to the ber of the Board of Directors of the Corporation for grade of general and to be Commander, United National and Community Service for a term expiring States Northern Command, and Commander, North October 6, 2021. American Aerospace Defense Command, both of the Heather Reynolds, of Texas, to be a Member of Department of Defense, after the nominees testified the Board of Directors of the Corporation for Na- and answered questions in their own behalf. tional and Community Service for a term expiring September 14, 2021. DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION REQUEST AND Gina Haspel, of Kentucky, to be Director of the FUTURE YEARS DEFENSE PROGRAM Central Intelligence Agency. Page S2226 Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Messages from the House: Page S2215 SeaPower concluded a hearing to examine Navy shipbuilding programs in review of the Defense Au- Measures Referred: Page S2215 thorization Request for fiscal year 2019 and the Fu- Executive Communications: Page S2215 ture Years Defense Program, after receiving testi- Petitions and Memorials: Pages S2215–18 mony from James F. Geurts, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for Research, Development, and Acquisi- Additional Cosponsors: Pages S2218–19 tion, Vice Admiral William R. Merz, USN, Deputy Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: Chief of Naval Operations for Warfare Systems Pages S2219–22 (OPNAV N9), and Lieutenant General Robert S. Amendments Submitted: Page S2223 Walsh, USMC, Deputy Commandant for Combat Authorities for Committees to Meet: Page S2223 Development and Integration, Commanding General, Marine Corps Combat Development Command, and Record Votes: One record vote was taken today. Commander, Marine Forces Strategic Command, all (Total—75) Page S2200 of the Department of Defense. Adjournment: Senate convened at 10 a.m. and ad- journed at 6:24 p.m., until 9:30 a.m. on Wednes- NOMINATIONS day, April 18, 2018. (For Senate’s program, see the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: remarks of the Majority Leader in today’s Record on Committee concluded a hearing to examine the page S2225.) nominations of Thelma Drake, of Virginia, to be Federal Transit Administrator, Department of Trans- Committee Meetings portation, Jeffrey Nadaner, of Maryland, to be an As- sistant Secretary of Commerce, and Seth Daniel Ap- (Committees not listed did not meet) pleton, of Missouri, to be an Assistant Secretary of APPROPRIATIONS: NATIONAL GUARD Housing and Urban Development, after the nomi- AND RESERVE nees testified and answered questions in their own Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Depart- behalf. ment of Defense concluded a hearing to examine proposed budget estimates and justification for fiscal NOMINATION year 2019 for the National Guard and Reserve, after Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: receiving testimony from General Joseph L. Lengyel, Committee concluded a hearing to examine the Chief, National Guard Bureau, Lieutenant General nomination of Karl L. Schultz, to be Admiral and to Charles D. Luckey, Chief, Army Reserve, Lieutenant be Commandant of the Coast Guard, Department of General Maryanne Miller, Chief, Air Force Reserve, Homeland Security, after the nominee testified and Vice Admiral Luke M. McCollum, Chief, Navy Re- answered questions in his own behalf.

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NATIONAL PARK SERVICE OVERSIGHT Ring, Coalition to Protect America’s National Parks, Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: Committee Bethesda, Maryland. concluded an oversight hearing to examine deferred maintenance and operational needs of the National U.S. POLICY IN YEMEN Park Service, after receiving testimony from Lena Committee on Foreign Relations: Committee concluded McDowall, Deputy Director for Management and a hearing to examine United States policy in Yemen, Administration, National Park Service, Department after receiving testimony from David M. Satterfield, of the Interior; Will Shafroth, National Park Foun- Acting Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastern dation, Washington, D.C.; Marc Berejka, Rec- Affairs; Robert Karem, Assistant Secretary of Defense reational Equipment, Inc., Kent, Washington; Sarah for Policy; and Robert Jenkins, Deputy Assistant Leonard, Alaska Travel Industry Association, An- Administrator, Bureau for Democracy, Conflict, and chorage; Shawn Regan, Property and Environment Humanitarian Assistance, United States Agency for Research Center, Bozeman, Montana; and Richard G. International Development. h House of Representatives Amending the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to Chamber Action allow officers and employees of the Department of Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 19 pub- the Treasury to provide to taxpayers information lic bills, H.R. 5526–5544; and 2 resolutions, H.J. regarding low-income taxpayer clinics: H.R. 5438, Res. 133 and H. Res. 833 were introduced. amended, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of Pages H3395–96 1986 to allow officers and employees of the Depart- Additional Cosponsors: Page H3397 ment of the Treasury to provide to taxpayers infor- mation regarding low-income taxpayer clinics; Reports Filed: There were no reports filed today. Pages H3367–68 Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein he Requiring the Secretary of the Treasury to es- appointed Representative Bishop (UT) to act as tablish a program for the issuance of identity pro- Speaker pro tempore for today. Page H3345 tection personal identification numbers: H.R. Recess: The House recessed at 10:52 a.m. and re- 5437, amended, to require the Secretary of the convened at 12 noon. Page H3351 Treasury to establish a program for the issuance of Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules identity protection personal identification numbers; and pass the following measures: Pages H3369–70 Moving Americans Privacy Protection Act: H.R. Providing for a single point of contact at the In- 4403, amended, to amend the Tariff Act of 1930 to ternal Revenue Service for the taxpayers who are protect personally identifiable information; victims of tax-related identity theft: H.R. 5439, Pages H3359–64 amended, to provide for a single point of contact at the Internal Revenue Service for the taxpayers who Requiring notice from the Secretary of the are victims of tax-related identity theft; Treasury in the case of any closure of a Taxpayer Pages H3370–71 Assistance Center: H.R. 5440, amended, to require notice from the Secretary of the Treasury in the case Amending the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to of any closure of a Taxpayer Assistance Center; require electronic filing of the annual returns of Pages H3364–66 exempt organizations and provide for making such returns available for public inspection: H.R. 5443, Amending the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 to amended, to amend the Internal Revenue Code of restrict the immediate sale of seized property by 1986 to require electronic filing of the annual re- the Secretary of the Treasury to perishable goods: turns of exempt organizations and provide for mak- H.R. 5446, amended, to amend the Internal Rev- ing such returns available for public inspection; enue Code of 1986 to restrict the immediate sale of Pages H3371–72 seized property by the Secretary of the Treasury to Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Permanence perishable goods; Pages H3366–67 Act: H.R. 2901, amended, to amend the Internal

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP8.REC D17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with DIGEST April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D407 Revenue Code of 1986 to make permanent the Vol- torney General to establish procedures for expedited unteer Income Tax Assistance matching grant pro- review of the case of any person who unlawfully so- gram; and Pages H3373–75 licits personal information for purposes of commit- Social Security Child Protection Act of 2018: ting identity theft, while purporting to be acting on H.R. 1512, amended, to amend title II of the Social behalf of the IRS. Pages H3356–59 Security Act to provide for the reissuance of Social Senate Message: Message received from the Senate Security account numbers to young children in cases by the Clerk and subsequently presented to the where confidentiality has been compromised. House today appears on page H3356. Pages H3375–77 Quorum Calls—Votes: One yea-and-nay vote de- Recess: The House recessed at 2:42 p.m. and recon- veloped during the proceedings of today and appears vened at 4 p.m. Pages H3372–73 on pages H3380–81. There were no quorum calls. Protecting Children from Identity Theft Act: The Adjournment: The House met at 10 a.m. and ad- House passed H.R. 5192, to authorize the Commis- journed at 7:23 p.m. sioner of Social Security to provide confirmation of fraud protection data to certain permitted entities, Committee Meetings by a yea-and-nay vote of 420 yeas to 1 nay, Roll No. 142. Pages H3377–81 APPROPRIATIONS—OFFICE OF PUBLIC Pursuant to the Rule, an amendment in the na- AND INDIAN HOUSING ture of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Trans- Committee Print 115–68 shall be considered as portation, Housing and Urban Development, and adopted, in lieu of the amendment in the nature of Related Agencies held a budget hearing on the Of- a substitute recommended by the Committee on fice of Public and Indian Housing. Testimony was Ways and Means now printed in the bill. Page H3377 heard from Dominique Blom, General Deputy As- H. Res. 830, the rule providing for consideration sistant Secretary for Public and Indian Housing, De- of the bill (H.R. 5192) was agreed to by voice vote, partment of Housing and Urban Development. after the previous question was ordered without ob- APPROPRIATIONS—U.S. COAST GUARD jection. Pages H3353–56 Committee Elections: The House agreed to H. Res. Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Home- 833, electing Members to certain standing commit- land Security held a budget hearing on the U.S. Coast Guard. Testimony was heard from Com- tees of the House of Representatives. Page H3381 mandant Paul F. Zukunft, U.S. Coast Guard. Authorizing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the National Peace Officers Memorial Service MEMBER DAY and the National Honor Guard and Pipe Band Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, Exhibition: The House agreed to discharge from Health and Human Services, Education, and Related committee and agree to H. Con. Res. 115, author- Agencies held a budget hearing entitled ‘‘Member izing the use of the Capitol Grounds for the Na- Day’’. Testimony was heard from Representatives tional Peace Officers Memorial Service and the Na- Dingell, Hill, and Suozzi. tional Honor Guard and Pipe Band Exhibition. Page H3381 APPROPRIATIONS—INDIAN HEALTH SERVICE Providing for a recess of the House for a joint meeting to receive His Excellency Emmanuel Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Inte- Macron, President of the French Republic: rior, Environment, and Related Agencies held a Agreed by unanimous consent that it may be in budget hearing on the Indian Health Service. Testi- order at any time on Wednesday, April 25, 2018, mony was heard from Rear Admiral Michael D. for the Speaker to declare a recess, subject to the call Weahkee, Acting Director, Indian Health Service, of the Chair, for the purpose of receiving in joint Department of Health and Human Services. meeting His Excellency Emmanuel Macron, Presi- APPROPRIATIONS—GENERAL SERVICES dent of the French Republic. Page H3381 ADMINISTRATION Suspension—Proceedings Postponed: The House Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Finan- debated the following measure under suspension of cial Services and General Government held a budget the rules. Further proceedings were postponed. hearing on the General Services Administration. Tes- Justice for Victims of IRS Scams and Identity timony was heard from Emily W. Murphy, Admin- Theft Act: H.R. 2905, amended, to require the At- istrator, General Services Administration.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP8.REC D17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with DIGEST D408 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST April 17, 2018 MEMBERS OF CONGRESS AND OUTSIDE mand; and John Rood, Under Secretary of Defense WITNESSES for Policy, Department of Defense. Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legisla- FRAUD, MISMANAGEMENT, NON- tive Branch held a budget hearing entitled ‘‘Mem- COMPLIANCE, AND SAFETY: THE HISTORY bers of Congress and Outside Witnesses’’. Testimony OF FAILURES OF THE CORPORATION FOR was heard from Representatives Takano, McGovern, NATIONAL AND COMMUNITY SERVICE and Hultgren; and public witnesses. Committee on Education and The Workforce: Full Com- MEMBER DAY mittee held a hearing entitled ‘‘Fraud, Mismanage- Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Com- ment, Non-Compliance, and Safety: The History of merce, Justice, Science, and Related Agencies held a Failures of the Corporation for National and Com- budget hearing entitled ‘‘Member Day’’. Testimony munity Service’’. Testimony was heard from Barbara was heard from Representatives Hill, Moore, and Stewart, Chief Executive Officer, Corporation for Na- Watson Coleman. tional and Community Service. MEMBER DAY OVERSIGHT OF THE FEDERAL ENERGY REGULATORY COMMISSION AND THE Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Mili- FY2019 BUDGET tary Construction, Veterans Affairs, and Related Agencies held a budget hearing entitled ‘‘Member Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Day’’. Testimony was heard from Representatives Energy held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the Walz, Tenney, Rutherford, Takano, Hill, and Kuster Federal Energy Regulatory Commission and the of New Hampshire. FY2019 Budget’’. Testimony was heard from the fol- lowing Federal Energy Regulatory Commission offi- APPROPRIATIONS—FOOD AND DRUG cials: Neil Chatterjee, Commissioner; Richard Glick, ADMINISTRATION Commissioner; Cheryl A. LaFleur, Commissioner; Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Agri- Kevin J. McIntyre, Chairman; and Robert F. culture, Rural Development, Food and Drug Admin- Powelson, Commissioner. istration, and Related Agencies held a budget hear- ing on the Food and Drug Administration. Testi- FROM CORE TO EDGE: PERSPECTIVE ON mony was heard from Scott Gottlieb, M.D., Com- INTERNET PRIORITIZATION missioner, Food and Drug Administration. Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Communications and Technology held a hearing en- PROMOTING DOD’S CULTURE OF titled ‘‘From Core to Edge: Perspective on Internet INNOVATION Prioritization’’. Testimony was heard from public Committee on Armed Services: Full Committee held a witnesses. hearing entitled ‘‘Promoting DoD’s Culture of Inno- vation’’. Testimony was heard from Michael D. Grif- SEMI-ANNUAL TESTIMONY ON THE fin, Under Secretary of Defense for Research and En- FEDERAL RESERVE’S SUPERVISION AND gineering, Department of Defense; and Eric Schmidt, REGULATION OF THE FINANCIAL SYSTEM Chairman, Defense Innovation Board, Department of Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee held Defense. a hearing entitled ‘‘Semi-Annual Testimony on the FISCAL YEAR 2019 BUDGET REQUEST FOR Federal Reserve’s Supervision and Regulation of the MISSILE DEFENSE AND MISSILE DEFEAT Financial System’’. Testimony was heard from PROGRAMS Randal Quarles, Vice Chairman for Supervision, Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System. Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Stra- tegic Forces held a hearing entitled ‘‘Fiscal Year HOUSING CHOICE VOUCHER PROGRAM: 2019 Budget Request for Missile Defense and Mis- AN OVERSIGHT AND REVIEW OF sile Defeat Programs’’. Testimony was heard from LEGISLATIVE PROPOSALS Lieutenant General James H. Dickinson, Com- Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on manding General, U.S. Army Space and Missile De- Housing and Insurance held a hearing entitled fense Command/Army Forces Strategic Command ‘‘Housing Choice Voucher Program: An Oversight and Joint Functional Component Command for Inte- and Review of Legislative Proposals’’. Testimony was grated Missile Defense; Lieutenant General Samuel heard from Lynn Kovich, Deputy Secretary, Office of Greaves, Director, Missile Defense Agency; General Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, Penn- Lori Robinson, Commander, U.S. Northern Com- sylvania Department of Human Services; and public mand and North American Aerospace Defense Com- witnesses.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:21 Apr 18, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17AP8.REC D17APPT1 SSpencer on DSKBBXCHB2PROD with DIGEST April 17, 2018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D409 MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES CONTINUED OVERSIGHT OVER THE Committee on Foreign Affairs: Full Committee held a INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE markup on H.R. 5040, the ‘‘Export Control Reform Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Sub- Act of 2018’’; H.R. 5129, the ‘‘Global Food Security committee on Healthcare, Benefits and Administra- Reauthorization Act of 2018’’; H.R. 5480, the tive Rules; and Subcommittee on Government Oper- ‘‘Women’s and Economic Empowerment Act’’; and ations held a joint hearing entitled ‘‘Continued H.R. 5274, the ‘‘Global Electoral Exchange Act’’. Oversight Over the Internal Revenue Service’’. Testi- H.R. 5480, H.R. 5274, H.R. 5129, and H.R. 5040 mony was heard from J. David Kautter, Acting were ordered reported, as amended. Commissioner, Internal Revenue Service; J. Russell George, Inspector General, Treasury Inspector Gen- REINFORCING THE U.S.-TAIWAN eral for Tax Administration; and Nina E. Olson, Na- RELATIONSHIP tional Taxpayer Advocate, Internal Revenue Service. Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Asia MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES and the Pacific held a hearing entitled ‘‘Reinforcing Committee on Science, Space, and Technology: Full Com- the U.S.-Taiwan Relationship’’. Testimony was heard mittee held a markup on H.R. 5509, the ‘‘Innova- from public witnesses. tions in Mentoring, Training, and Apprenticeships Act’’; and H.R. 5503, the ‘‘National Aeronautics and STATE SPONSORS OF TERRORISM: AN Space Administration Authorization Act of 2018’’. EXAMINATION OF IRAN’S GLOBAL H.R. 5509 and H.R. 5503 were ordered reported, as TERRORISM NETWORK amended. Committee on Homeland Security: Subcommittee on SMALL BUSINESS RETIREMENT PLANS AND Counterterrorism and Intelligence held a hearing en- THE IRS’ EMPLOYEE PLANS FEE CHANGE titled ‘‘State Sponsors of Terrorism: An Examination of Iran’s Global Terrorism Network’’. Testimony was Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Eco- heard from public witnesses. nomic Growth, Tax, and Capital Access held a hear- ing entitled ‘‘Small Business Retirement Plans and OVERSIGHT OF THE FEDERAL BUREAU OF the IRS’ Employee Plans Fee Change’’. Testimony PRISONS was heard from Sunita Lough, Project Director, Tax Reform Implementation Office, Internal Revenue Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, Service, Department of the Treasury. Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the Federal OVERSIGHT OF THE SURFACE Bureau of Prisons’’. Testimony was heard from Mark TRANSPORTATION BOARD Inch, Director, Federal Bureau of Prisons. REAUTHORIZATION ACT OF 2015 Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Sub- SAFEGUARDING TRADE SECRETS IN THE committee on Railroads, Pipelines, and Hazardous UNITED STATES Materials held a hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of the Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Courts, Surface Transportation Board Reauthorization Act of Intellectual Property, and the Internet held a hearing 2015’’. Testimony was heard from Ann D. Begeman, entitled ‘‘Safeguarding Trade Secrets in the United Chairman, Surface Transportation Board; and Deb States’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. Miller, Vice Chairman, Surface Transportation Board. LEGISLATIVE MEASURES LEGISLATIVE MEASURES Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Water, Power and Oceans held a hearing on H.R. Health held a hearing on H.R. 1506, the ‘‘VA 4528, to make technical amendments to certain ma- Health Care Provider Education Debt Relief Act of rine fish conservation statutes, and for other pur- 2017’’; H.R. 2322, the ‘‘Injured and Amputee Vet- poses; H.R. 5248, the ‘‘Sustainable Shark Fisheries erans Bill of Rights’’; H.R. 3832, the ‘‘Veterans and Trade Act’’; and H.R. 1456, the ‘‘Shark Fin Opioid Abuse Prevention Act’’; H.R. 4334, the ‘‘Im- Sales Elimination Act of 2017’’. Testimony was proving Oversight of Women Veterans’ Care Act of heard from Alan Risenhoover, Director, Office of 2017’’; H.R. 4635, to direct the Secretary of Vet- Sustainable Fisheries, National Marine Fisheries Serv- erans Affairs to increase the number of peer-to-peer ice, National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administra- counselors providing counseling for women veterans, tion, Department of Commerce; and public wit- and for other purposes; legislation on the VA Medic- nesses. inal Cannabis Research Act of 2018; and legislation

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Committee on Foreign Relations: to hold hearings to exam- JOBS AND OPPORTUNITY: FEDERAL ine the Marrakesh Treaty to Facilitate Access to Pub- PERSPECTIVES ON THE JOBS GAP lished Works for Persons Who Are Blind, Visually Im- paired, or Otherwise Print Disabled, done at Marrakesh Committee on Ways and Means: Full Committee held on June 27, 2013 (Marrakesh Treaty) (Treaty a hearing entitled ‘‘Jobs and Opportunity: Federal Doc.114–06), 10:30 a.m., SD–419. Perspectives on the Jobs Gap’’. Testimony was heard Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: from R. Alexander Acosta, Secretary, Department of to hold hearings to examine the nominations of David Labor. Williams, of Illinois, Robert M. Duncan, of Kentucky, and Calvin R. Tucker, of Pennsylvania, each to be a Gov- ernor of the United States Postal Service, 10 a.m., Joint Meetings SD–342. FEDERAL BUDGET PROCESS Committee on Indian Affairs: to hold an oversight hear- ing to examine the 30th anniversary of tribal self-govern- Joint Select Committee on Budget and Appropriations Proc- ance, focusing on successes in self-governance and an out- ess Reform: Committee concluded a hearing to exam- look for the next 30 years, 2:30 p.m., SD–628. ine opportunities to significantly improve the Fed- Committee on the Judiciary: to hold an oversight hearing eral budget process, after receiving testimony from to examine the Patent and Trademark Office, 10 a.m., Douglas Holtz-Eakin, American Action Forum, SD–226. Washington, D.C.; and Martha B. Coven, Princeton Subcommittee on Border Security and Immigration, to University Woodrow Wilson School of Public and hold hearings to examine strengthening and reforming International Affairs, Princeton, New Jersey. America’s immigration court system, 2:30 p.m., SD–226. Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: business meeting to con- f sider the nominations of Paul R. Lawrence, of Virginia, COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR WEDNESDAY, to be Under Secretary for Benefits of the Department of Veterans Affairs, and Joseph L. Falvey, Jr., of Michigan, APRIL 18, 2018 to be a Judge of the United States Court of Appeals for (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) Veterans Claims, 12 noon, S–216, Capitol. Special Committee on Aging: to hold hearings to examine Senate exploitation of older Americans by guardians and others Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Energy they trust, 9:30 a.m., SD–562. and Water Development, to hold hearings to examine proposed budget estimates and justification for fiscal year House 2019 for the Army Corps of Engineers and the Bureau Committee on Agriculture, Full Committee, markup on of Reclamation within the Department of the Interior, H.R. 2, the ‘‘Agriculture and Nutrition Act of 2018’’, 10 2:30 p.m., SD–430. a.m., 1300 Longworth. Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Interior, Development, and Related Agencies, to hold hearings to Environment, and Related Agencies, budget hearing enti- examine proposed budget estimates and justification for tled ‘‘Member Day’’, 9 a.m., 2007 Rayburn. fiscal year 2019 for the Department of Housing and Subcommittee on Energy and Water Development, and Urban Development, 2:30 p.m., SD–192. Related Agencies, budget hearing entitled ‘‘Member Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Emerging Day’’, 1 p.m., 2362–B Rayburn. Threats and Capabilities, to hold hearings to examine ac- Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban celerating new technologies to meet emerging threats, Development, and Related Agencies, budget hearing enti- 2:30 p.m., SR–232A. tled ‘‘Member Day’’, 10 a.m., 2358–A Rayburn. Subcommittee on Airland, to hold hearings to examine Subcommittee on Labor, Health and Human Services, Air Force modernization in review of the Defense Author- Education, and Related Agencies, budget hearing entitled ization Request for fiscal year 2019 and the Future Years ‘‘Health and Human Services Biodefense Activities’’, 10 Defense Program, 3:30 p.m., SR–222. a.m., 2358–C Rayburn. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: to Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Gov- hold hearings to examine abusive robocalls and how to ernment, budget hearing on the Office of Management stop them, 10 a.m., SR–253. and Budget, 10 a.m., 2359 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, Product Safety, Subcommittee on Commerce, Justice, Science, and Re- Insurance, and Data Security, to hold hearings to examine lated Agencies, budget hearing on the Bureau of the Cen- Olympic abuse, focusing on the role of national gov- sus, 10:30 a.m., H–309 Capitol. erning bodies in protecting our athletes, 2:30 p.m., Subcommittee on Agriculture, Rural Development, SR–253. Food and Drug Administration, and Related Agencies,

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budget hearing on the Office of the Secretary of Agri- Committee on Natural Resources, Full Committee, markup culture, Department of Agriculture, 1:30 p.m., 2362–A on H.R. 788, the ‘‘Target Practice and Marksmanship Rayburn. Training Support Act’’; H.R. 1026, the ‘‘North Country Subcommittee on Financial Services and General Gov- National Scenic Trail Route Adjustment Act’’; H.R. ernment, budget hearing on the Judiciary, 2 p.m., 1037, to authorize the National Emergency Medical Serv- 2358–C Rayburn. ices Memorial Foundation to establish a commemorative Subcommittee on Legislative Branch, budget hearing work in the District of Columbia and its environs, and on the Office of Compliance, 2:30 p.m., HT–2 Capitol. for other purposes; H.R. 2991, the ‘‘Susquehanna Na- Subcommittee on Legislative Branch, budget hearing tional Heritage Area Act’’; H.R. 3400, the ‘‘Recreation on the Congressional Budget Office, 3:30 p.m., HT–2 Not Red-Tape Act’’; H.R. 4069, to amend the Migratory Capitol. Bird Treaty Act to clarify the treatment of authentic Committee on Armed Services, Full Committee, hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight and Reform of the Department of Alaska Native articles of handicraft containing nonedible Defense ‘4th Estate’ ’’, 10 a.m., 2118 Rayburn. migratory bird parts, and for other purposes; and H.R. Subcommittee on Readiness, hearing entitled ‘‘Fiscal 4645, the ‘‘East Rosebud Wild and Scenic Rivers Act’’, Year 2019 Energy, Installations and Environment Budget 10:15 a.m., 1324 Longworth. Request’’, 2 p.m., 2212 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Energy and Mineral Resources, hear- Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces, hear- ing on H.R. 3846, the ‘‘Power Counties Act’’, 2 p.m., ing entitled ‘‘Ground Force Modernization Budget Re- 1324 Longworth. quest for Fiscal Year 2019’’, 3 p.m., 2118 Rayburn. Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Full Com- Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on En- mittee, hearing entitled ‘‘Top Management and Perform- ergy, markup on H.R. 4606, the ‘‘Ensuring Small Scale ance Challenges Identified Government-wide by the In- LNG Certainty and Access Act’’; H.R. 5174, the ‘‘Energy spector General Community’’, 10 a.m., 2154 Rayburn. Emergency Leadership Act’’; H.R. 5175, the ‘‘Pipeline Subcommittee on Information Technology, hearing en- and LNG Facility Cybersecurity Preparedness Act’’; H.R. titled ‘‘Game Changers: Artificial Intelligence Part III, 5239, the ‘‘Cyber Sense Act’’; and H.R. 5240, the ‘‘En- Artificial Intelligence and Public Policy’’, 2 p.m., 2154 hancing Grid Security through Public-Private Partner- Rayburn. ships Act’’, 10 a.m., 2123 Rayburn. Committee on Science, Space, and Technology, Subcommittee Committee on Foreign Affairs, Full Committee, hearing on Research and Technology, hearing entitled ‘‘Composite entitled ‘‘U.S. Policy Toward a Turbulent Middle East’’, Materials—Strengthening Infrastructure Development’’, 10 a.m., 2172 Rayburn. 10 a.m., 2318 Rayburn. Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and Emerging Committee on Small Business, Full Committee, hearing Threats, hearing entitled ‘‘The Dayton Legacy and the entitled ‘‘An Examination of the Small Business Adminis- Future of Bosnia and the Western Balkans’’, 2 p.m., 2200 tration’s 7(a) Loans to Poultry Farmers’’, 11 a.m., 2360 Rayburn. Subcommittee on the Middle East and North Africa, Rayburn. hearing entitled ‘‘Libya Fractured: The Struggle for Joint Meetings Unity’’, 2 p.m., 2172 Rayburn. Committee on Homeland Security, Full Committee, hearing Joint Select Committee on Solvency of Multiemployer Pension entitled ‘‘From Boston to Austin: Lessons Learned on Plans: to hold hearings to examine the history and struc- Homeland Threat Information Sharing’’, 10 a.m., ture of the multiemployer pension system, 2 p.m., HVC–210. SD–215.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 9:30 a.m., Wednesday, April 18 10 a.m., Wednesday, April 18

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Wednesday: Senate will continue consider- Program for Wednesday: Consideration of H.R. ation of S.J. Res. 57, Indirect Auto Lending and Compli- 5444—Taxpayer First Act (Subject to a Rule) and H.R. ance with the Equal Credit Opportunity Act, with a vote 5445—21st Century IRS Act (Subject to a Rule). on passage of the joint resolution at 12 noon, to be fol- lowed by a vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the motion to concur in the amendment of the House to S. 140, Amending The White Mountain Apache Tribe Water Rights Quantification Act, with further amend- ment. If cloture is not invoked, Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of James Bridenstine, of Oklahoma, to be Administrator of the Na- tional Aeronautics and Space Administration. At 2 p.m., Senate will vote on confirmation of the nomination of Carlos G. Muniz, of Florida, to be General Counsel, Department of Education.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Crowley, Joseph, N.Y., E481 Krishnamoorthi, Ill., E480 Curbelo, Carlos, Fla., E481 LaHood, Darin, Ill., E483 Bishop, Mike, Mich., E480, E483, E486, E487, E488, E490 Doyle, Michael F., Pa., E489 Neal, Richard E., Mass., E488 Blunt Rochester, Lisa, Del., E479 Dunn, Neal P., Fla., E481, E486 Norton, Eleanor Holmes, The District of Columbia, Burgess, Michael C., Tex., E479 Engel, Eliot L., N.Y., E483 E483 Bustos, Cheri, Ill., E483 Garamendi, John, Calif., E479 Pascrell, Bill, Jr., N.J., E481 Carbajal, Salud O., Calif., E489 Graves, Garret, La., E489 Perlmutter, Ed, Colo., E480, E481, E482, E483, E485, Cartwright, Matt, Pa., E480 Graves, Sam, Mo., E480, E484, E490 E486, E487, E488, E490, E491 Cheney, Liz, Wyo., E489 Gutie´rrez, Luis V., Ill., E481 Poliquin, Bruce, Me., E479 Clarke, Yvette D., N.Y., E481 Hastings, Alcee L., Fla., E481 Sessions, Pete, Tex., E487 Clyburn, James E., S.C., E485 Hudson, Richard, N.C., E488 Sewell, Terri A., Ala., E485 Collins, Chris, N.Y., E482 Jackson Lee, Sheila, Tex., E490 Sinema, Kyrsten, Ariz., E486 Comstock, Barbara, Va., E486 Johnson, Mike, La., E482 Taylor, Scott, Va., E484 Conaway, K. Michael, Tex., E487 Katko, John, N.Y., E479 Thompson, Mike, Calif., E480, E482, E484, E487, E491 Costello, Ryan A., Pa., E485 Keating, William R., Mass., E482 Titus, Dina, Nev., E481

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