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

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

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2017 No. 172 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was than 32 million children and their fami- Head Start and the Early Head Start called to order by the Speaker pro tem- lies. Head Start gives every child, re- programs are in small towns and big pore (Mr. PERRY). gardless of circumstances at birth, a cities alike. They bring together par- f chance to succeed in school and in life. ents, teachers, volunteers, and commu- When Head Start was first launched nity leaders to create a quality pro- DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO in 1965, the idea of providing com- gram that truly does give lower income TEMPORE prehensive health, nutrition, and edu- children a head start in life. The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- cation services to children in poverty Studies have shown that students fore the House the following commu- was groundbreaking. The Head Start who have had access to Head Start nication from the Speaker: model, developed over the decades, has were more likely to graduate from high become one that has been built now on school and attend college. They are WASHINGTON, DC, evidence-based practices and is con- October 25, 2017. less likely to commit a crime or be- I hereby appoint the Honorable SCOTT stantly evolving, using the best avail- come a teen parent. Head Start gives PERRY to act as Speaker pro tempore on this able science and teaching techniques to children equal footing from the start day. meet the needs of local communities. and allows them every opportunity to PAUL D. RYAN, Head Start takes a comprehensive be successful, thanks to an early edu- approach to meeting the needs of Speaker of the House of Representatives. cation. young children across four major areas f Mr. Speaker, I applaud Head Start of development, including education. programs in the Fifth Congressional MORNING-HOUR DEBATE Head Start provides a variety of learn- District of Pennsylvania and through- ing experiences to help children grow The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- out the Nation for helping to break the intellectually, socially, develop- ant to the order of the House of Janu- intergenerational cycle of poverty. So mentally, and emotionally. ary 3, 2017, the Chair will now recog- many Americans from all walks of life nize Members from lists submitted by Health: Head Start offers health services such as immunizations, dental, were offered a fair start in life thanks the majority and minority leaders for to Head Start. morning-hour debate. medical, and mental health and nutri- f The Chair will alternate recognition tional services and early identification between the parties. All time shall be of health problems. EPIDEMIC OF GUN VIOLENCE Parent involvement: Head Start in- equally allocated between the parties, volves parents in the planning and im- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The and in no event shall debate continue plementation of activities. Parents Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from beyond 11:50 a.m. Each Member, other serve on policy councils and commit- Illinois (Ms. KELLY) for 5 minutes. than the majority and minority leaders tees that make administrative deci- Ms. KELLY of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I and the minority whip, shall be limited sions, participate in classes and work- rise, yet again, because Americans are to 5 minutes. shops and child development, and vol- dying each and every day. The epi- f unteer in the program. demic of gun violence has ended too many futures before they have begun, HEAD START AWARENESS MONTH Social services: Head Start also provides outreach to families to determine left too many empty seats at the din- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The what services they need. ner table, torn too many families Chair recognizes the gentleman from Mr. Speaker, Head Start focuses on apart, and left too many communities Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON) for 5 the whole child and the whole family. asking: How many more before Con- minutes. Research has suggested that educating gress acts? Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. children in their earliest years plays an Mr. Speaker, I can’t blame them. Mr. Speaker, 35 years ago, President important role in inspiring lifelong With 90 Americans dying from guns Ronald Reagan first proclaimed Octo- learning, school readiness, and pre- every day, this House and this Speaker ber as Head Start Awareness Month, paring students before they begin kin- continue to turn a blind eye to this epi- and, proudly, we continue to raise dergarten as an essential part of Head demic. awareness about Head Start and the Start, and it is especially important Mr. Speaker, earlier this month, one benefits it brings to America’s chil- for some of the most vulnerable among man carried out this Nation’s worst dren. us to ensure access to quality edu- mass shooting in history in just 11 Since its inception 50 years ago, Head cation and the outcomes that can be minutes, leaving 58 Americans dead. Start has improved the lives of more derived from it. These are mothers and friends, sons

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 06:52 Jan 12, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\OCTOBER\H25OC7.REC H25OC7 H8148 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 and brothers, people just trying to Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise increases the Airport Improvement enjoy some country music. this morning because the House must Program from $3.3 billion to $4 billion. Instead of going home to their loving continue its work to reform and reau- It has the ability to upgrade our air- families, instead of going home and thorize the FAA. We have got to pass ports. being greeted at the door by their tod- H.R. 2997, the 21st Century AIRR Act. Mr. Speaker, I also served my coun- dler, they were carried away in bags. Thirty years ago—30 years ago—the try in the Air Force for 16 years. As a They are now another tragic statistic, FAA identified the need to modernize veteran, I know that national security another empty seat at Christmas din- or upgrade the Nation’s antiquated comes first. The 21st Century AIRR Act ner—lives taken, not lost—lives with World War II era air traffic control sys- does not jeopardize the interaction be- such potential, lives that were doing tem. This is a system, at the time, that tween the Department of Defense and amazing things, lives that were raising used radar technology and paper strips air traffic control; in fact, it strength- families and serving their commu- for communications between control- ens it. The Federal Government retains nity—lives taken, not lost—lives sur- lers. They literally would take these exclusive sovereignty and control of rounded by hundreds of other lives that paper slips and hand them from one the airspace, and the President main- will never, never be the same. controller to the next controller to the tains critical authority to assume con- Each life taken is a tragedy, but the next controller as aircraft not only trol of the airspace during emergencies hundreds of other lives impacted for- moved through the airwaves, but were in times of war. ever in those 11 minutes are, equally, moving through the airport systems. The time to bring up the bill, H.R. now made tragic. Now, over the last 30 years, Canada, 3997, the 21st Century AIRR Act, is 489 people were injured. Mr. Speaker, Australia, and many in the EU have now. The public has waited way too let me say that again, because we often changed to this GPS system. We have long. We have been bypassed by other focus on those killed but forget about got countries all across the globe going countries. If we can identify it 30 years the hundreds fighting for their lives in to GPS, or decades ago have already the intensive care unit. We forget ago that we had World War II tech- switched. It is when they go through nology, we ought to recognize it today about those who will need to learn to our airspace, we still use this old radar walk again or will never walk again. and stop passing these little pieces of technology. paper back and forth through our air We forget about the mom who will Now, during this time, we have up- never hold her baby again because her traffic control systems. graded GPS systems. We all carry Let’s upgrade our systems, let’s cre- arms are paralyzed, the other grand- around handheld devices that use GPS: ate efficiencies, and let’s get people father who will never see his grand- the Wave app, Google app. There are moving across this country in an effi- children again because he has been many different mapping platforms that cient manner where they are not sit- blinded. allow you to get through cities, towns, ting on tarmacs waiting for flight Mr. Speaker, while Las Vegas the countryside. If there is an accident, delays. marked that largest mass shooting in there is a delay, it allows you to get U.S. history, just 477 days earlier, the around it and move through so that we f largest mass shooting was a prevent- can actually have greater efficiencies DEMAND ACTION FOR VICTIMS OF able tragedy at Pulse nightclub in Or- on the road. GUN VIOLENCE lando that took 49 lives and wounded But 30 years have gone by, and today, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The 58. after spending $7 billion, the FAA still Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from How can you say there isn’t a prob- uses this outdated radar technology, Nevada (Ms. TITUS) for 5 minutes. lem with gun violence when it takes moving from beacon to beacon, getting Ms. TITUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise, once less than 500 days for one horrific mass passed along as you travel across the again, to honor, mourn, and demand shooting to eclipse another as the United States. And, yes, our air traffic action for victims of gun violence. deadliest in American history? control system still passes these little How can you say there is nothing we On October 1, a gunman armed with pieces of paper from one to the next to can do, as Americans die, as kids get semiautomatic weapons equipped with the next. Oftentimes, if you travel shot and are never the same? bump stocks fired hundreds of rounds around, you will go through areas How is one man able to be so destruc- in a matter of minutes at concert goers where you are not captured by the tive in such a short amount of time? in my Las Vegas congressional district, radar at all, while other countries con- The answer is in an after-market killing 58 and injuring 489 others in at- tinue with this GPS system. modification called the bump stock tendance. that turns an assault weapon into a This outdated air traffic control system negatively impacts the entire fly- During my tenure in Congress, I have machine gun, something outlawed by stood for too many moments of silence this House during the days of Al ing public. An outdated ATC means route inefficiencies, which means high- on this House floor to remember lives Capone. Yet it is still possible to walk lost to senseless gun violence. into a gun store, purchase this device, er costs, which yields more congestion in our skies and sitting on our Many of my colleagues and I know and, within minutes, have a gun of war all too well about the senseless loss of in your hands. tarmacs. I would like to see a system where life in our streets, movie theaters, Mr. Speaker, how did we let this hap- schools, and, now, concert venues. We pen? More importantly, how are we you don’t leave the gate to go sit on the runway until you know that you have pleaded, we have watched, we still letting this happen? Why haven’t have mourned as more and more vic- we acted to outlaw these devices that actually have a slot and are moving tims suffer, and we have seen nothing allow people to make machines in their into the air and have a direct flight to from congressional Republicans. backyard? your point. But today, you will see This just can’t go on. We can’t ignore There is a commonsense bipartisan many airlines that will sit you out on the lives lost due to gun violence in my bill awaiting action. Why haven’t you the tarmac waiting for a slot. called it to the floor? Is it because the More congestion is a direct factor of district or in any other for any longer, NRA changed its mind and now opposes flight delays and canceled flights. The and if we don’t act soon, we will just be the bill? reforms in this bill will provide more here doing it again. Crickets—that is what I thought. on-time departures and arrivals and So I want to call the names, say the How can we keep our families safe less canceled flights. names, remember the names of the 58 when this House and this majority is This bill is for the average flier. It casualties who lost their lives in my beholden to the gun lobby dedicated to doesn’t matter which airline you take, district. Let us honor their memory, profits over people? we ought to have an air traffic control and let these 58 names give the Repub- f system that serves them all with a licans 58 more reasons why we must GPS system that allows you to get take action now. REFORM AND REAUTHORIZE FAA from point A to point B without the Hannah Ahlers; Heather Alvarado; The SPEAKER pro tempore. The time delays. Dorene Anderson; Carrie Barnette; Chair recognizes the gentleman from This also has the Air Improvement Jack Beaton; Steve Berger; Candice California (Mr. DENHAM) for 5 minutes. Program fully funded, which actually Bowers; Denise Burditus; Sandy Casey;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:42 Oct 25, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.002 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8149 Andrea Castilla; Denise Cohen; Austin specialized instrumentation on NOAA Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, imag- Davis; Thomas Day, Jr.; Christiana hurricane aircraft provides critical ine waking up with no lights, imagine Duarte; Stacee Etcheber; Brian Fraser; storm data. The dual-channel tail waking up with no running water, you Keri Galvan; Dana Gardner; Angela doppler radars provide three-dimen- cannot bathe yourself, you cannot feed Gomez; Rocio Guillen Rocha; Charles- sional views of the storm. your children, you get so desperate ton Hartfield, a police officer off duty; These advanced technology tools that you break into chemically con- Chris Hazencomb; Jennifer Topaz make NOAA’s fleet a critical resource taminated water, into untreated sew- Irvine; Teresa Nicol Kimura; Jessica to safeguard lives and property when age water, you are on dialysis, Mr. Klymchuk; Carly Kreibaum; Rhonda hurricanes threaten our shores. There Speaker, and there is still no elec- LeRocque; Victor Link; Jordan is no doubt that this has been a chal- tricity, or you are running out of medi- McIldoon; Kelsey Meadows; Calla- lenging hurricane season for the coun- cation and supplies in hospitals that Marie Medig; James ‘‘Sonny’’ Melton; try, with Hurricane Harvey’s flooding are very low. in Louisiana and Texas, Hurricane Patricia Mestas; Austin Meyer; Adrian What I am describing to you, Mr. Irma impacting Florida, and Hurricane Murfitt; Rachael Parker; Jenny Parks; Speaker, is not a dream. It is a living Maria devastating Puerto Rico. Carrie Parsons; Lisa Patterson; John nightmare, and it has been a living NOAA’s aircraft have performed tire- Phippen; Melissa Ramirez; Jordyn Ri- nightmare in Puerto Rico for over a lessly throughout these events. Over a vera; Quinton Robbins; Cameron Rob- month. For over 4 weeks, while we now 4-week period, two NOAA hurricane inson; Tara Roe; Lisa Romero-Muniz; begin to focus and speak about tax re- aircraft flew over 300 hours and Chris Roybal; Brett Schwanbeck; Bai- form and how this Congress attempts ley Schweitzer; Laura Shipp; Erick dropped over 500 weather probes into these storms. to assist the 1 percent—the wealthiest, Silva; Susan Smith; Brennan Stewart; the well-heeled—with a handsome tax Derrick ‘‘Bo’’ Taylor; Neysa Tonks; After the hurricanes pass, NOAA’s work is not done. NOAA’s fleet of light break, with the elimination of the es- Michelle Vo; Kurt von Tillow; and Bill tate tax, when we attempt to shelve, to Wolfe. aircraft perform poststorm damage assessments, taking high resolution im- forget, to turn our head on this night- These are the 58 people who lost their mare unfolded in Puerto Rico, it con- lives from gun violence in my district ages that enable limited emergency response resources to be delivered to the tinues to be a living nightmare. in Nevada; 58 more reasons why we most critical areas. That doesn’t stop there, Mr. Speaker. shouldn’t stand silent, but we need to NOAA’s King Air aircraft emergency Puerto Rico could lose funding also for take action now. response efforts to Hurricanes Harvey, thousands of low-income housing units f Irma, and Maria have resulted in more if power to the island isn’t restored b 1015 than 1.7 billion requests for damage as- soon. The Department of Housing and sessment images. In total, more than Urban Development, which subsidizes RECOGNIZING NATIONAL OCEANIC 65,000 images were collected, covering 203 housing projects on the island, is AND ATMOSPHERIC ADMINISTRA- more than 24,000 square kilometers of prohibited by law from providing Sec- TION’S AIRCRAFT OPERATIONS impacted areas. Think about that. tion 8 assistance to buildings that are CENTER These images allow emergency man- not decent, safe, and sanitary. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The agers and the general public to be able Every day that Puerto Rico goes to flee quickly, to react quickly, and to Chair recognizes the gentleman from without resources, potable water, assess quickly in these impacted areas. Louisiana (Mr. ABRAHAM) for 5 min- medication, and electricity, the situa- utes. NOAA’s light survey aircraft also perform a diverse set of missions, in- tion becomes more dangerous and the Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise death tolls continue to go up. This has today to bring attention to the critical cluding river and snow pack surveys essential for flood forecasts and water now become, Mr. Speaker, our Carib- and lifesaving work being done by the bean Katrina. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Ad- management; coastal mapping required The official death toll reported by ministration’s Aircraft Operations Cen- for safe maritime navigation by com- the government increased today to 49 ter. mercial, military, and recreational sec- deaths, but many folks fear that it is On September 23, I had a front row tors; and fisheries assessments. NOAA’s aircraft are responsive and much higher than that, after con- seat flying into the eye of Hurricane flexible, able to deploy at a moment’s firming a death due to leptospirosis. Maria as it headed toward Puerto Rico notice in support of national disaster According to the CDC, leptospirosis is and the coastal United States. I rode response. NOAA aircraft provided crit- a bacterial disease that affects humans through the hurricane aboard a NOAA ical data and support on scene fol- and animals. Without treatment, this P–3 Orion operated by the highly spe- lowing the Deepwater Horizon event disease can lead to kidney damage, cialized workforce of the NOAA Com- and over the skies of New York after meningitis, liver failure, respiratory missioned Officer Corps, civilian tech- Hurricane Sandy. NOAA aircraft pro- distress, and even death. To date, the nicians, meteorologists from NOAA, vide data critical for public safety, eco- island has reported 76 possible cases of and others, who have safely navigated nomic, and national security. the disease. Investigative reporting these hurricanes for decades. The NOAA aircraft fleet, the NOAA from various sources have tallied up The P–3’s instruments collect and Commissioned Corps, and NOAA civil- deaths to potentially north of 450 peo- transmit realtime weather data from ians are an invaluable natural re- ple. As of Friday, October 6, at least 14 storms far out to the sea back to the source, and it is one that we have a people have committed suicide in Puer- mainland. This data is critical for hur- duty to maintain. These crews and air- to Rico. They are traumatized and in ricane forecasters used by the Amer- craft require regular updates, readiness distress. This is our Caribbean Katrina. ican public and emergency managers. training, and technology enhancements A list of 113 people remain missing Providing the most accurate fore- that directly benefit us and our coun- after Maria’s passage. casts of hurricane track and intensity, try. I was just in Puerto Rico for the sec- as early as possible, is the focus of I look forward to working with my ond time this past week with Congress- these flights. Whether a strong hurri- colleagues and the President to ensure man LUIS GUTIE´ RREZ. The Congressman cane directly hits a major U.S. city or that NOAA aircraft fleet has all of the and I helped distribute supplies and ne- weakens and spins out to sea with resources they need to safeguard lives cessities to Comerio, a small town in a minimal impacts is a question that can and property for decades to come. remote part of Puerto Rico. impact billions of dollars and thou- f sands of lives. These flights are vital to Puerto Rico continues to need help. protect our Nation’s lives and prop- PUERTO RICO NEEDS HELP It needs to be woken up from this liv- erty. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ing nightmare. S.O.S. S.O.S. Get re- In addition to the P–3 hurricane hun- Chair recognizes the gentleman from sources to them now. It is our Carib- ter I flew in, NOAA also has a G–IV jet New York (Mr. ESPAILLAT) for 5 min- bean Katrina. Let’s own it. Let’s re- that goes high above the storm. The utes. solve it.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:42 Oct 25, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.004 H25OCPT1 H8150 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 OPIOID EPIDEMIC This week, there is something we all Whitefish Energy is based in White- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The can do. Think about your household. fish, Montana. Guess what. That is the Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from Go into your hidden cupboards and see hometown of Interior Secretary Ryan Missouri (Mrs. WAGNER) for 5 minutes. if you have old prescriptions. I bet you Zinke, who used to represent Montana Mrs. WAGNER. Mr. Speaker, the do. Take them. Find your nearest drug in this body. His son even worked for world is an ugly place right now. It take back location and throw them the company. The chief executive of seems that at every turn there is an- away. Whitefish Energy, Andy Techmanski, other crisis—another barrier to peace We need to restore hope in this fight, knows Secretary Zinke; but as a and prosperity, another obstacle to and it won’t happen overnight. It will spokesperson for the Interior Depart- fight, or another cross to bear. More of take work, prayer, patience, and vigi- ment said yesterday, in Whitefish, ‘‘ev- our citizens, women, children, and lance. Hope can be restored. If and erybody knows everybody.’’ grandkids are turning to something— when we band together to fight this Guess what. That doesn’t make me anything—to mute the pain and create epidemic, it will happen. feel any better about the deal. a false sense of peace. Society has been So let’s restore a little hope this Go a little deeper and you find out infected by drug addiction, a disease week. Let’s all join the fight to end the that Whitefish Energy is financed by fueled by a loss of hope. opioid epidemic. HBC Investments, which is a private We see it on the news, we watch it f equity firm founded by Joe Colonnetta, online, we feel loss in our communities. who holds the title of general partner. b 1030 This disease is killing our friends and The Daily Beast reported that neighbors. Last year alone, over 64,000 THE WHITEFISH ENERGY DEAL Colonnetta gave $20,000 to the Trump lives were lost. That is more casualties The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Victory PAC, maxed out on contribu- in a year than we saw during the Chair recognizes the gentleman from tions to Trump for his Presidential height of the Vietnam war. Illinois (Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ) for 5 minutes. campaign in the primaries and general And this is a war, too—a war being Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ. Mr. Speaker, there elections, about $32,000, then another fought in the streets and in our homes. is something fishy about the Whitefish $30,000 that he gave to the Republican And we are losing. Mothers, sons, Energy deal that was reported in The National Committee. Kimberly daughters, and fathers are dying—from Washington Post. Colonnetta, his wife, was also a max- the cold streets of major cities to the Whitefish Energy, based in Whitefish, imum donor, meaning she gave the quiet fields of rural America—we are Montana, was awarded a $300 million maximum allowed by law during the all feeling the effects of the opioid cri- contract to repair and replace the elec- 2016 election to Trump and his various sis. trical grid in Puerto Rico. We learned committees. What can be done? That is a question that the company is 2 years old and, as Now, please look here, and the pic- I have asked countless law enforcement of about 6 weeks ago, had just two em- tures are right off the Internet. They officials, doctors, nurses, addiction ployees. It does not have a track record certainly add additional evidence to treatment professionals, and commu- of working on massive projects, cer- the idea that Whitefish and the nity leaders. There is no one solution tainly not one as massive as rebuilding Colonnettas are pretty chummy with to stopping the opioid epidemic in this the power grid in Puerto Rico after a our President and his Cabinet. Right country. here is Mr. Colonnetta with the Presi- This is a man-made disaster. We once-in-a-century storm like Hurricane dent of the United States, the two must face it head on with education Maria. Colonnettas at the inauguration, and a and awareness, addiction and recovery The Puerto Rico Electric Power Au- picture of Mrs. Colonnetta with Ben services, funding, prescription drug thority did not solicit bids for this con- monitoring programs, and prevention. tract. They did not do what most power Carson, one of the President’s Cabinet We need to prevent our loved ones from utilities do under these circumstances, members. Don’t forget, all you kids out there being dragged into the abyss of addic- which is rely on mutual assistant rela- watching at home on C–SPAN, what tion and hopelessness. tionships with other power companies. According to the CDC, three out of In Florida and in Texas—and in Illi- you post on Facebook stays there for- four new heroin users report abusing nois, for that matter—after a big ever. prescription opioids before using her- storm, power companies from around Now, I know that not everything that oin. There is an easy step each of us the country send linemen and other looks corruption is in fact corruption. can take to help with prevention. We workers to assist the local company. Sometimes what looks fishy on the can get rid of our old opioid prescrip- But that is not happening here. The surface turns out to be legit, but most tions at home. Why chance someone Florida Power and Light Company of the time, you know what, it turns taking them? Why chance your loved brought in 20,000 workers after Irma out to be corruption. one being a statistic? and, apparently, was willing to send The reason this matters so much is This year alone, 153 individuals in St. workers to Puerto Rico and help, but that, without electricity, we can’t get Louis County have already died of an the request for help never came. water restored to the people of Puerto overdose. How many of them started So what is going on here? Rico. Water doesn’t flow uphill without with prescribed opioids? How many A tiny company that does not have a pumps, and those pumps need power. started by taking prescriptions from a track record gets one of the biggest You cannot live without water; you parent or a family member? If we could contracts to help rebuild Puerto Rico die. Dialysis machines, electrical have saved just one of these lives by in a no-bid, out-of-the-ordinary con- wheelchairs, refrigeration for baby for- throwing away old prescriptions, then tracting procedure. mula, insulin for diabetics, chemo- isn’t it worth it? That is why I wrote yesterday to At- therapy for those with cancer all re- This Saturday, October 28, local law torney General Jeff Sessions and FBI quire electricity. It is a matter of life enforcement and the Drug Enforcement Director Christopher Wray, because I and death. Agency will be set up all around the want them to investigate this deal, I was just there and saw the suffering country and in our neighborhoods for how it was awarded, why this company of the people in the villages and towns National Prescription Drug Take Back got the contract, and whether there is across the island of Puerto Rico. With- Day. They are providing safe and easy any evidence of it being a sweetheart, out electricity, we cannot get Puerto locations for you to throw away unused corrupt deal to boost business allies Ricans back to work rebuilding their prescription drugs. and political allies of the President and island and beginning to end the suf- I have no idea how many people can, members of his Cabinet. fering. and will, be saved by this one simple I also plan to bring this issue up to Look, the last thing we and the peo- act. But multiply this one act times the Oversight Committees in this body. ple of Puerto Rico need right now is a thousands, and now we are getting On the surface, the Whitefish Energy fat cat lining his pockets with money something done. Mr. Speaker, this is deal looks fishy, but when you look a because they are well connected. an epidemic this Nation has never seen. little deeper, the Whitefish Energy deal The SPEAKER pro tempore. The This is a disease of our own making. looks corrupt. time of the gentleman has expired.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:42 Oct 25, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.007 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8151 Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ. That money should with appropriate skills, and workers been represented to be a lifeline for the be saving lives, not ending them. without meaningful pathways to better American people in long awaited tax The SPEAKER pro tempore. The paying jobs. reform. time of the gentleman has expired. I hear from employers and workforce Sad to say that this is not a bipar- Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ. That is why I de- organizations about the importance of tisan bill. In addition, it is a bill that mand the FBI and the Attorney Gen- a qualified workforce. They want to will cause a great deal of challenge to eral investigate. identify new opportunities to strength- the American people. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- en skills training. For example, in moving firms across tleman will suspend. Apprenticeships and work-based the ocean, overseas, the American peo- Members are reminded to direct their learning programs are a win-win. They ple should know that those companies, remarks to the Chair and not to a per- provide individuals with paid, on-the- in the construct of this bill, will cause ceived viewing audience. job training and classroom instruction. them to be exempt from taxes forever. f Employers can align training with the In a discussion this morning, I heard skills they need at their workplaces, INNOVATIVE APPRENTICESHIPS that it will not boost the economy. The and workers can learn while they earn. American people should know that it The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Unfortunately, small- and medium- will destroy, undermine, crush the Chair recognizes the gentleman from sized businesses often lack the infra- economy. Georgia (Mr. FERGUSON) for 5 minutes. structure and resources to establish ap- Mr. FERGUSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise prenticeships or work-based learning The representation of the level of today in support of the PARTNERS programs on their own. So the PART- growth is a misnomer. Take, for exam- Act, legislation I am introducing this NERS Act addresses this by estab- ple, in 1986, in the tax reform, there morning with my friend, Representa- lishing a grant program to support the was no surge in job creation after the tive BONAMICI from Oregon. creation and expansion of industry and Reagan tax cuts. There was no high Our bill would establish a grant pro- sector partnerships that will help numbers of blossoming jobs. Many in gram to support the creation and ex- small-and medium-sized businesses de- my congressional district need jobs. pansion of innovative apprenticeships velop work-based learning programs It will be borrowing from the future that prepare our workers for 21st cen- and provide support programs for and it will be a burden on our children, tury careers. workers. our children’s children, and their chil- In the Third District of Georgia, the Industry and sector partnerships will dren. But the most devastating part is CEC in Newnan has led Georgia by im- bring together employers, education, the bill that we will be paying, the ac- plementing an apprenticeship model, training, labor, and community-based tual dollars to pay down the deficit. and since then, we have seen appren- organizations to develop work-based Of course, it should be known that we ticeships continue to expand across our learning programs that benefit workers have examples that no jobs will be cre- great State. and the economy as a whole. ated. In 2004, for example, when there I, along with Ms. BONAMICI, are intro- In Oregon, these partnerships could was a repatriation from companies reducing the PARTNERS Act today to address, for example, workforce devel- garding their taxes, there was no cre- bring more programs like this to stu- opment needs in rapidly growing sec- ation of jobs that we can even recog- dents and workers across the Nation. tors like healthcare and technology. nize. Most of the money went for stock By funding this grant with already Under the PARTNERS Act, the part- buybacks. existing H1–B visa fees, which are col- nerships would use grant funds to re- Now, I know that sounds completely lected from foreign visa applicants, we cruit workers, develop training cur- technical, but let me be very clear. The are ensuring that workers can receive riculum, and provide workers with ac- question has to be: What will the mid- immediate work-based training at no cess to tools, work attire, transpor- dle class working families get? cost to the American taxpayer. tation, childcare services, and I can assure you, it will be close to f mentorship support. These support zero. services help businesses retain employ- APPRENTICESHIPS AND WORK- There are 2 million households, for ees and help workers balance caring for BASED LEARNING PROGRAMS example, in the State of Texas that and providing for their families. will be impacted by not allowing the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Importantly, Mr. Speaker, this bill exemption of State and local taxes. We Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from results in no additional cost to tax- don’t know whether mortgage deduc- Oregon (Ms. BONAMICI) for 5 minutes. payers because it authorizes the use of tions will be allowed, charitable tax Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, I am 50 percent of the funds deposited in the credits. So if you have in some way pleased to be on the floor this morning H1–B nonimmigrant petition account, been deducting, for example, those to introduce bipartisan legislation with and these will be used by the Depart- State and local taxes, you will not be my colleague on the Education and ment of Labor for the partnership able to do them anymore. That will be Workforce Committee, Congressman grants. This funding source was sug- a great burden on the working families DREW FERGUSON from Georgia. gested by the administration in a June of America. Our bill, Promoting Apprenticeships 2017 executive order on apprentice- So my caution to the business com- Through Regional Training Networks ships. for Employers’ Required Skills Act, or munity as well as the small businesses, Through stronger investments and families: Be very careful what you buy PARTNERS Act, will help close the work-based learning programs, we can skills gap by increasing opportunities into. We will have discussions to pro- build pathways to get more people vide you with that detailed analysis. for small- and medium-sized businesses back to work, to provide our Nation’s to establish apprenticeships and work- The key is a distribution table. What businesses with the workforce that will and whom will get the most money. based learning programs. improve productivity and efficiency. When I visit communities in north- As the bill is presently written, mid- I thank Mr. FERGUSON for his leader- dle class working families, don’t look west Oregon, I hear from many Orego- ship, and I urge my colleagues to join nians who still feel left behind because for relief in the Ryan-McConnell tax us in supporting this bipartisan legisla- bill. It will all go to the top 1 percent. they don’t have the skills they need to tion that will help people in our dis- compete in today’s economy. They are They will relish while, you might not tricts across the country access good be jealous, but you will certainly be not alone. Many jobs today do not re- jobs. quire a 4-year degree, but do require poorer for it. f more than a high school diploma. In OPIOID CRISIS fact, those jobs make up about 53 per- TAX REFORM Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I cent of today’s labor market, but only The SPEAKER pro tempore. The want to also entertain the questions 43 percent of today’s workers are Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from about the pending opioid announce- trained at this level. Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE) for 5 minutes. ment of this White House. I want to This creates a skills gap, leaving Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, bring to the attention the article in businesses struggling to find workers today we will begin a journey that has The New Yorker on the empire of pain.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:42 Oct 25, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.008 H25OCPT1 H8152 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 I am working on these issues, but I re- Despite her healthy lifestyle and no community to grieve with you, Ben, alize that this has to be a comprehen- other risks, in 2016, Jennifer was diag- little Aida and Wyatt, and to honor sive approach to opioid abuse. nosed with pancreatic cancer, a terri- your wife, your mother, and the life of The Purdue company launched fying diagnosis for anyone, let alone a Jennifer Kepner. We are awed and hum- OxyContin with a marketing campaign young mother. bled by Jennifer’s life of patriotism and that attempted to counter this atti- After exhaustive work to investigate service, and her life and her love of tude and change the prescribing habits the potential causes of her cancer, her family. of doctors. oncologist linked Jennifer’s exposure Jennifer, we thank you for your service and sacrifice. b 1045 to burn pits in Iraq as the only identifiable and plausible risk for her cancer. Mr. Speaker, Jennifer’s memory will Many people know OxyContin. The Burn pits are commonly used by the never be forgotten. company funded research and paid doc- military to eliminate waste in Iraq and f tors to make the case that concerns Afghanistan. The large burn pit at about opioid addiction were overblown A CIRCUIT BREAKER IS NEEDED Balad Air Base in Iraq, where Jennifer FOR PROPOSED TAX CUTS and that OxyContin would safely treat was stationed for 6 months in 2006, cov- an ever-wider range of maladies. Sales ered 10 acres and burned over 240 tons The SPEAKER pro tempore. The representatives marketed OxyContin as of trash each day, including everything Chair recognizes the gentleman from a product to start with and to stay from computer parts, medical waste, Oregon (Mr. BLUMENAUER) for 5 min- with. Remember that. A product to plastics, and chemicals; some items we utes. Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, start with and to stay with. wouldn’t allow to be burned in open air Millions of patients found the drug to the exercise my Republican friends are in our neighborhoods here in the be a vital salve for excruciating pain, going through with their budget and United States. Yet, in a crowded camp but many others grew so hooked on it, tax cut proposal would be amusing if of thousands, our men and women in that between doses they experienced the consequences were not so serious. uniform are exposed to giant plumes of debilitating withdrawal. Coming to Congress, I worked hard to black smoke. If we are going to do real opioid re- earn a position on the House Ways and After learning of the potential link form, this must be a standup of the Means Committee, which has been the between her exposure while she served pharmaceutical companies, and they focal point for critical decisions in the our great Nation and her cancer, she cannot be defended. past dealing with tax reform, with So- In addition, we have to understand went to the VA seeking answers and cial Security. I respected its historic that those languishing in jail that have help. After being denied medical assist- role and the way that its members suffered from criminal penalties for ance and benefits from the VA ini- worked together in a thoughtful and crack cocaine—crack—there now tially, Jennifer reached out to the ad- bipartisan basis. should be a compromise for their re- vocacy group Burn Pits 360 and my of- Unfortunately, unlike what has hap- lease. Opioid reform must include all of fice. pened for other major tax reform ef- Along with others, and as a team, we the neighborhoods of America, not just forts, currently there has been no ef- helped her navigate the complicated some. fort for laying the groundwork, work- VA process, cut through the red tape, ing with people in both parties, dealing f and get her the benefits that she had with the hard decisions that are nec- JENNIFER KEPNER WAS MOST earned. essary for tax reform that will move COURAGEOUS AND INSPIRING I visited Jennifer at her home. Dur- our country forward. My Republican The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ing our kitchen table talk, she told me friends refuse to deal with the heavy Chair recognizes the gentleman from about her daily struggle raising two legislative lifting necessary for true re- California (Mr. RUIZ) for 5 minutes. small children while battling pan- form. Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise to rec- creatic cancer. She was brave and had In fact, my Republican friends now ognize the life and legacy of a wonder- an optimistic attitude. have given up on tax reform. They are ful person, an incredible wife, loving She told me what it was like living rushing through, in a matter of days, mother, exceptional citizen, and one of every day in Iraq right next to the burn not reform but as big a tax cut as they our Nation’s finest servicemembers, pits—the smoke, the smell, the irri- can possibly get, predicated on strong- Jennifer Kepner. tated cough, and the sickness that fol- arming their Members with narrow Jennifer passed away on October 18, lowed. control in Congress and disregarding 2017, at the young age of 39. She lived Her main concern was to ensure her the fundamentals of responsible budg- in my congressional district in Cathe- husband and children were going to be eting. dral City, California. My heart breaks okay after she passed. Her second con- The budget resolution that the House for her family and loved ones. She is, cern was for her fellow veterans who, will soon be considering by the Repub- by far, one of the most courageous and like her, were exposed to burn pits. She licans to enact their tax cut via the inspiring people I have ever met. She wanted to bring awareness to what she process known as reconciliation is a put family, country, and community called ‘‘the Agent Orange of our gen- fantasy. Read it carefully. It is predi- before self. eration.’’ Imagine that. During the cated on increasing our national debt At 23, Jennifer answered the call to toughest battle of her life against an $1.5 trillion, when previously they serve our Nation as a medic and a staff aggressive cancer, she elevated her promised that their tax reform would sergeant in the United States Air family and fellow veterans above her- be budget neutral. Force. She served for 6 years, from 2001 self. Her advocacy was for us to pre- It is predicated on $4 trillion of un- to 2007, and helped save countless lives vent future exposure to burn pits and specified budget cuts that will be con- on the battlefield. serve veterans who have already been centrated on Medicare, Medicaid, and After being honorably discharged at exposed. the other programs that Americans the rank of staff sergeant, Jenn contin- That is why we are here, to honor care the most deeply about. ued her life of service, helping patients Jennifer and fight for her, her family, The proof for this fantasy is the fact in our local communities as a radi- and fellow veterans. We must find a so- that even though Republicans have an ology technician at Desert Regional lution. Unfortunately, it is too late for ironclad grip on the appropriations Medical Center in Palm Springs. Jennifer, but we can fight in her honor. process in both the House and the Sen- She led a healthy and full life in so I was there with Jenn; her husband, ate and they don’t have to worry about many ways. Her many hobbies included Ben; children, Aida and Wyatt, at her filibusters, they don’t need any Demo- CrossFit, hiking, camping with her bedside hours before she passed away, cratic votes at all, but they still can- family, quilting, and even painting. and I am honored to call Ben my not summon the courage of their con- All who met her remember her love friend. victions to implement the beginning of of country, her determined spirit, her On behalf of my wife, Monica, the this strategy. passion for serving others, and her de- 36th Congressional District, and our It doesn’t have to wait for 2 or 4 or 10 votion to family. entire Nation, we join together as a years. They could start now with the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:42 Oct 25, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.010 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8153 budget cutting that they are relying THE BIG BANKS ARE MAKING BIG b 1200 BUCKS upon for this fantasy budget, but they AFTER RECESS know that the American people won’t The SPEAKER pro tempore. The The recess having expired, the House stand for it and their own Members Chair recognizes the gentleman from was called to order by the Speaker pro wouldn’t vote for those cuts now even Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) for 5 minutes. tempore (Mr. POE of Texas) at noon. though there is nothing stopping them. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- That is why it is absolutely essential er, once again, I am honored to stand f that, even if they are modestly success- in the well of the Congress of the PRAYER ful with this reckless agenda, that we United States of America, although I take steps to prevent the resulting fis- Reverend Dr. Christopher Girata, am sad to bring the news that I shall Saint Michael and All Angels Episcopal cal train wreck, because we have seen share with you. deficits explode in the past where rosy Church, Dallas, Texas, offered the fol- I am saddened by something that has lowing prayer: projections about economic growth and happened in this Congress. The big stern budget cuts fail to materialize. Gracious God, we thank You for the banks are making big bucks. They are gift of this life and ask Your blessing The landmark 1986 tax reform legisla- doing very well, and they just received tion, the last time we had real tax re- upon the world You have made. Have a big bonus from Congress. compassion on those who suffer from form, by the way, predicated on bipar- The big bonus is this: if you do busi- tisan cooperation and a lot of hard any grief or trouble. ness with them, you will have to par- Give to the people of our country a work, had no discernible impact on ticipate in arbitration, and you won’t economic growth, even though it was, zeal for justice and the strength of for- be allowed to sue them to resolve your bearance that we may use our liberty in fact, worth it. dispute by way of litigation. Congress As a result, I will be offering stand- in accordance with Your gracious will. has decided that the big banks making Guide all who govern and hold author- alone legislation and amendments in the big bucks can force you to go to ar- the Ways and Means Committee to es- ity in this Nation, and kindle in every bitration, and you will have to pay a heart that true love of peace. tablish a circuit breaker that will sus- fee to negotiate your way through the pend the tax cuts if the rosy projec- Make our lives a sign of Your love to arbitration process. I think that there this broken world, that unity may tions fail to materialize. If deficits ex- is something wrong with this picture. plode and budgets are not cut accord- overcome estrangement, forgiveness, There is something wrong with this heal guilt, and joy conquer despair. ing to their plan, then the American picture when we realize that one people should be spared the economic Grant that the bonds of our common bank—and I will just single one out, I humanity, by which all Your children chaos by calling a timeout and rolling won’t go through all of the entirety of back these reckless proposals, allowing are united one to another, may be so the industry, but one bank, Wells transformed by Your grace that Your us to catch our breath and hopefully Fargo, one bank, opened 3.5 million ac- develop better policy based on biparti- will may be done on Earth as it is in counts in the names of persons without heaven. sanship and facts, not fantasy. their consent. In the names of cus- America deserves a far-better vision All this, we ask in the name of God, tomers, 3.5 million accounts without than the Republican budget fantasy our creator, redeemer, and sustainer. the consent of customers. and the reckless tax cuts that they are Amen. pushing so hard to enact. At a min- f imum, we should have a circuit breaker b 1100 THE JOURNAL to stop it if they can’t follow through This one bank, Wells Fargo, paid $185 on their promises. million as a part of the resolution. This The SPEAKER pro tempore. The f one bank, Wells Fargo, paid $80 million Chair has examined the Journal of the for enrolling customers into auto in- last day’s proceedings and announces AMRO FABRICATING CELEBRATES surance that they didn’t need. One to the House his approval thereof. 40 YEARS bank, Wells Fargo, paid $2.8 million in Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The refunds to customers. One bank, Wells nal stands approved. Chair recognizes the gentleman from Fargo, in 2012, illegally foreclosed on Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. California (Mr. TAKANO) for 5 minutes. servicemembers’ homes and autos—one Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule I, I Mr. TAKANO. Mr. Speaker, I rise bank, Wells Fargo—and for this, they demand a vote on agreeing to the today to honor the 40th anniversary of paid $311 million. This was about Speaker’s approval of the Journal. AMRO Fabricating Corporation, whose $125,000 per servicemember. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Riverside manufacturing facility is ad- So we find ourselves in a cir- question is on the Speaker’s approval jacent to the March Air Reserve Base cumstance where banks that do these of the Journal. in my district. ugly things to customers won’t have to The question was taken; and the AMRO is a small business manufac- go to court. They won’t have to face a Speaker pro tempore announced that turer that plays an important role in jury. They will simply require the cus- the ayes appeared to have it. supporting NASA, the Department of tomer to negotiate with them. I find Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Defense, and our community. this quite shocking, to be quite frank Speaker, on that I demand the yeas Under the guidance of CEO Michael with you, and I am very saddened by it, and nays. E. Riley, the grandson of founders Mi- because I know that, if you take from The yeas and nays were ordered. chael K. and Thora A. Riley, this fam- the bank, you will go to court. But, ap- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ily company is helping to develop a parently, Congress has concluded that, ant to clause 8, rule XX, further pro- strong and skilled workforce in south- if the bank takes from you, you go to ceedings on this question will be post- ern California. the bank and negotiate. poned. AMRO is partnering with the State It is a sad state of affairs. f and Federal Government on projects that place high school and college stu- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE f dents in internships and apprentice- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the ships, which prepare them for a suc- gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. RECESS cessful future and support our local PITTENGER) come forward and lead the economy. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- House in the Pledge of Allegiance. Mr. Speaker, I want to congratulate ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair Mr. PITTENGER led the Pledge of the AMRO team on this milestone, and declares the House in recess until noon Allegiance as follows: I am proud to represent this terrific today. I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the small business that is doing such great Accordingly (at 11 o’clock and 1 United States of America, and to the Repub- work for our community and for our minute a.m.), the House stood in re- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, Nation. cess. indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.012 H25OCPT1 H8154 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 WELCOMING REVEREND DR. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER harming the many people who rely on CHRISTOPHER D. GIRATA PRO TEMPORE them, like Daniel’s students. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. Speaker, we must work together The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without and pass the Dream Act immediately. Chair will entertain up to 15 further re- objection, the gentleman from Texas We just pledged, ‘‘with liberty and jus- quests for 1-minute speeches on each (Mr. HENSARLING) is recognized for 1 tice for all.’’ Let’s bring justice to the side of the aisle. minute. DREAMers and pass the Dream Act. There was no objection. f f Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, it is LIBERATION OF MARAWI, my true honor to introduce and recog- PREVENTING TAX-FREE BONDS PHILIPPINES nize our guest chaplain today, Father FROM GOING TO ABORTION PRO- Chris Girata. I am honored because he (Mr. WILSON of South Carolina VIDERS is my rector, the rector of Saint Mi- asked and was given permission to ad- (Mr. PITTENGER asked and was chael and All Angels Episcopal Church dress the House for 1 minute and to re- given permission to address the House in Dallas, Texas, where my family and vise and extend his remarks.) for 1 minute and to revise and extend I have worshipped for over 20 years. Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. his remarks.) Although he has been our rector for Speaker, sadly, radical Islamic terror- Mr. PITTENGER. Mr. Speaker, today only a little over a year, Father Girata ists continue their assault on innocent I introduce the No Abortion Bonds Act, has brought a renewed spirituality and victims across the world. to end Federal tax-exempt bonds that passion to our parish. His enthusiasm This month, there were ISIS-inspired support abortion providers. for God’s Word and will is infectious to knife attacks in France and Canada, as Under a loophole in the current law, us all. His sense of humor always well as the surprise attack in Niger, cities, counties, and States can issue brightens our day, and he leads by ex- with mass murders of worshippers at Federal tax-free bonds to finance con- ample. mosques in Kabul. struction of abortion clinics. As one parishioner put it, Mr. Speak- Gratefully, there are victories over In 2012, the New York City govern- er: ‘‘He is a true voice for the powerless the terrorists, such as the recent lib- ment issued a tax-free $15 million bond and poor and is constantly challenging eration of Raqqa, Syria, and now in the for a $30 million renovation of Planned us to even better walk as Christ did.’’ Philippines. Parenthood’s national headquarters, And whether it is through our service Congratulations to the people of the which was subsequently sold 3 years at the Jubilee Park and Community Philippines, successfully led by Presi- later for $60 million. In 2007, Sarasota Center in South Dallas, the millions in dent Rodrigo Duterte and their coura- County, Florida, floated an $8 million charity provided through the St. Mi- geous military, on the recent libera- tax-free bond to pay for a Planned Par- chael’s Woman’s Exchange, or any of tion of Marawi from ISIS militants. enthood abortion clinic. the other ministries or outreach Marawi is the capital city of over These tax-free bonds are intended to projects of our parish, under Father 200,000 citizens in the province of finance schools, hospitals, infrastruc- Chris Girata, Saint Michael is more Lanao del Sur on the island of ture—not abortion clinics. The No Abortion Bonds Act has over humbly and effectively serving God’s Mindanao, which has been under ISIS 30 bipartisan cosponsors and is en- children. control since the end of May. Innocent dorsed by Americans United for Life, And as we do, Father Girata leads us families were persecuted in this mur- Susan B. Anthony List, National Right not to just serve our neighbors’ phys- derous occupation. to Life, March for Life, the Family ical needs, but to serve their spiritual While liberating Marawi from ISIS Policy Alliance, and the Eagle Forum. needs as well. I am grateful that his control is a milestone in combatting global terrorism, this fight is far from Please join me today in applying the prayer and his example could be shared spirit of the Hyde amendment to the with the House today. finished. We must be successful to defeat the terrorists overseas to protect Tax Code by preventing tax-free bonds from going to abortion providers. f American families at home. In conclusion, God bless our troops, f and we will never forget September the COMMUNICATION FROM THE MEDICARE BUY-IN OPTION 11th in the global war on terrorism. CLERK OF THE HOUSE (Mr. HIGGINS of New York asked and f The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- was given permission to address the fore the House the following commu- URGE IMMEDIATE PASSAGE OF House for 1 minute.) Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. nication from the Clerk of the House of THE DREAM ACT Speaker, Medicare is the best public Representatives: (Ms. BONAMICI asked and was given option that already exists to improve OFFICE OF THE CLERK, permission to address the House for 1 the Affordable Care Act and to provide HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, minute.) Washington, DC, October 25, 2017. immediate relief to Americans on the Ms. BONAMICI. Mr. Speaker, I rise Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, individual market. The Speaker, House of Representatives, today to urge the immediate passage of Next week, the Nation’s State insur- Washington, DC. the Dream Act to bring certainty to ance commissioners will make public DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the per- the more than 10,000 DREAMers in Or- insurers’ price gouging increases for mission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of egon and DREAMers across the coun- next year, including a 60 percent in- the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- try. crease in Georgia, a 50 percent increase tives, the Clerk received the following mes- I have met with DREAMers in my in Florida, and the remaining States sage from the Secretary of the Senate on Oc- State of Oregon, and tearing them tober 25, 2017, at 9:07 a.m.: up to a 50 percent 1-year increase. That the Senate passed S. 226. away from their lives would be a tre- A Medicare buy-in option for younger That the Senate passed S. 1766. mendous loss for our communities. Americans is the only hedge against That the Senate concur in the House of DREAMers like Daniel, a dedicated these price spikes that every American Representatives amendment to the Senate second grade teacher, DACA allowed will look to Congress for relief from. amendment to the bill H.R. 2266. him to come out of the shadows and Congress has been negligent in their 7- That the Senate agree to without amend- give back to his community. year near obsession with repeal and re- ment H.J. Res. 111. But with President Trump ending place. You can no longer blame Appointments: DACA, Daniel is rightly anxious about ObamaCare. United States Holocaust Memorial Coun- his future. He worries about the effect Mr. Speaker, I urge every Member of cil. on his students if he is forced to leave Congress to support the Medicare Buy- Western Hemisphere Drug Policy Commis- sion. abruptly in the middle of the school in and Healthcare Stabilization Act With best wishes, I am, year. and Medicare X legislation. It is time Sincerely, When we threaten DREAMers, we put to unleash the market power of Medi- KAREN L. HAAS. their futures at risk, but we also risk care to lower costs, improve quality,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.015 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8155 and push back on private insurers’ ag- NATIONAL FOREST PRODUCTS to stabilize markets and lower costs for gressive pricing. WEEK American families. The failure to fix the health reform will cause millions f (Mr. POLIQUIN asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 of Americans to lose healthcare, and, HONORING DONALD GILLEN, CON- minute and to revise and extend his re- that is, ‘‘No Care TrumpCare.’’ GRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL RE- marks.) f CIPIENT Mr. POLIQUIN. Mr. Speaker, I am 40TH ANNIVERSARY OF SUNBELT pleased to join 1.3 million fellow (Mr. BOST asked and was given per- AG EXPO Mainers in celebrating National Forest mission to address the House for 1 (Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia Products Week. minute and to revise and extend his re- asked and was given permission to ad- Mr. Speaker, our great State is 90 marks.) dress the House for 1 minute and to re- percent covered by healthy, sustain- Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I rise in vise and extend his remarks.) able forests which support more than honor of one of my constituents, Don- Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. 30,000 good-paying jobs. Now, nation- ald Gillen, who is in Washington, D.C., Speaker, I rise today to celebrate the ally, our working forests support today to receive the Congressional 40th anniversary of the Sunbelt Agri- 930,000 hardworking Americans who Gold Medal for his service to our Na- cultural Exposition. manage the forests, who harvest the tion during World War II. Last week, I had the pleasure in at- trees, and who transport the wood to Donald joined the Army on July 26, tending the expo with a few of my col- paper mills and energy plants across 1945. He was stationed at Camp leagues. Known as North America’s our great Nation. O’Donnell in the Philippines from No- Premier Farm Show, this annual event Every day, products like paper and vember 1946 through June 1947. As part in Moultrie, Georgia, attracts visitors lumber and pet food bags and tooth- of the 12th Philippine Scout Division, from across the Nation to showcase picks and pencils make our lives bet- he became a company commander in farming technology, research, and ter. And the best part, Mr. Speaker, is the 57th Infantry Regiment. equipment. More than 1,200 exhibitors that these trees grow back after we cut Donald moved to Belleville, Illinois, participated to display the latest and them, so this entire green, sustainable with his college sweetheart, Marilyn, greatest agricultural technology and industry creates good-paying jobs gen- to be close to his family, including four innovation. eration after generation. grandchildren. Now he is a guest staff- Agriculture is the largest and oldest Now, Democrats and Republicans er for the Belleville News-Democrat industry in the State of Georgia, and it must do everything humanly possible and supports his wife’s singing in their is only fitting that an event that cele- to help make sure our forest products church choir. brates and encourages the success of industry is healthy and thrives. And to I ask my colleagues to join me in agriculture be held in Georgia’s Eighth that end, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank welcoming Donald to our Nation’s Cap- Congressional District. everybody in this Chamber to make itol and thanking him for his service. American agriculture depends on sure that we continue to treat biomass We are forever grateful. strong and tireless advocates, and I fairly in our regulations, make sure commend the participants for creating biomass is carbon neutral. This will f an opportunity to educate the public avoid unnecessary and costly regula- on the importance of strengthening our RECOGNITION OF LOS BANOS tions being imposed on our mills, fac- farmers. POLICE DEPARTMENT tories, and energy plants. As the world’s agricultural leader, (Mr. COSTA asked and was given per- f the expo recognizes the tireless work of mission to address the House for 1 b 1215 American farmers and their role in pro- minute and to revise and extend his re- viding a safe and affordable food sup- HEALTH INSURANCE OPEN marks.) ply. I could not be more delighted to ENROLLMENT Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today stand here today and honor a truly to recognize the men and the women of (Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas asked spectacular event and look forward to the Los Banos Police Department as and was given permission to address its continued success. Heroes and Heroines of the Month for the House for 1 minute.) f California’s 16th Congressional Dis- Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas. Mr. trict, part of the people whom I have Speaker, we are one week away from CONGRATULATING REVEREND DR. the honor and pride to represent. the open enrollment period—an oppor- JONATHAN L. WEAVER These men and women tirelessly tunity for Americans to purchase (Mr. BROWN of Maryland asked and serve our community and truly are re- health insurance for 2018. was given permission to address the markable in embodying their motto: President Trump ended the cost shar- House for 1 minute and to revise and Pride in Service, Integrity in Action— ing reduction—the CSR—payments, extend his remarks.) Pride in Service, Integrity in Action. which reduce out-of-pocket costs for Mr. BROWN of Maryland. Mr. Speak- But the pursuit of excellence is not low-income working families. er, I rise today to congratulate the without cost. We know that they risk A Congressional Budget Office anal- Reverend Dr. Jonathan L. Weaver on their lives every day on a 24/7 basis. ysis says ending these payments would his 30th pastoral anniversary. Earlier this summer, two Los Banos likely increase premiums by 20 percent As the pastor of the Greater Mt. Nebo police officers, Kristifer Hew and Aaron next year and by 25 percent by 2020. African Methodist Episcopal Church, Pinon, were shot in the line of duty. I In the Senate, there is a bipartisan which was founded 140 years ago, Rev- am happy to report that both officers agreement, led by Senators ALEXANDER erend Weaver provides outstanding are making spirited recoveries, but the and MURRAY, to stabilize the market- spiritual leadership in Maryland’s risk police officers face every day to places by funding the CSR payments Fourth Congressional District and the keep us safe cannot be overstated. So and increase resources for open enroll- entire region. we salute them and their families. ment outreach. Pastor Weaver has a deep and active Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Last night, unfortunately, a couple faith, and lives that faith not just with join me in recognizing the Los Banos of the Members in the majority added words, but with deeds. He has com- Police Department Heroes and Hero- partisan objectives to the bill, cutting mitted his life to lifting up people—to ines of the Month for California’s 16th mandates, which will keep costs low, feeding the hungry and caring for the Congressional District, as well as rec- and adding anti-abortion restrictions poor, comforting the afflicted and ognizing all of America’s law enforce- to CSR payments. making peace—where there is strife. He ment officers. We can never ever thank Mr. Speaker, I urge the majority to has overseen not only the church’s them enough for their dedicated serv- drop the poison pills and work with growth, but the charitable works of ice as they protect all of America Democrats to bring the Alexander-Mur- more than 50 ministries that serve its throughout our Nation. ray bill to the floor as soon as possible members and the wider community.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.017 H25OCPT1 H8156 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 Pastor Weaver has led missions to minute and to revise and extend his re- tional woman in my district. Thank Africa, serves as national president of a marks.) you, Mrs. Gail Kemler, for your service 500-church ecumenical association, and Mr. LAHOOD. Mr. Speaker, 1 week to the entire Rochester community, board chairman of the oldest and larg- ago, I had the privilege of presenting a and happy 100th birthday. est African-American community bank Purple Heart to Mr. Anthony Smith of f in the national capital region. Warsaw, Illinois, in my congressional RECOGNIZING BRUCE HARBACH Mr. Speaker, as Reverend Weaver district. continues his service to our commu- During the Vietnam war, Anthony (Mr. SMUCKER asked and was given nity, I am confident that he will con- served in the Army’s 1st Cavalry Divi- permission to address the House for 1 tinue ‘‘to do justice, and to love kind- sion. In 1968, on a particular bad day minute.) ness, and to walk humbly with our for our troops, Anthony was able to Mr. SMUCKER. Mr. Speaker, I rise God.’’ single-handedly take out several today to recognize the head coach of the Lancaster Catholic High School f enemy machine gun units, protecting his fellow soldiers from harm and football team, Bruce Harbach, who has SPARTA, NORTH CAROLINA death. recently announced his retirement. (Ms. FOXX asked and was given per- Anthony’s bravery on that day was Coach Harbach has been coaching for mission to address the House for 1 rewarded with a Bronze Star with a remarkable 41 years and has spent minute.) Valor, and with a Purple Heart, al- the last 16 years of that career leading Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, Forbes mag- though he was not given a physical the Crusaders. His accomplishments at Lancaster Catholic are too many to azine recently discovered something Purple Heart medal at the time. Al- mention, but let me provide just a few many of us have known for a long time, most 50 years later, our office worked highlights: two State championships, which is that Sparta, North Carolina, to help correct this, and it was one of eight section championships, nine dis- is a wonderful place to live and work. the highest honors of my time in office trict playoff appearances, six district Sparta, located in Alleghany County, to present Anthony Smith with this championship appearances, and a per- is a wonderful community made up of well-deserved medal in front of a crowd people with vision, strong work ethic, fect 16–0 season in 2011. of his friends and family in Warsaw In fact, I was glad to host Coach big hearts, and dreams. last Tuesday, October 17. Harbach and the team at the Pennsyl- Forbes encouraged young entre- I want to thank Anthony Smith for vania State Capitol following their preneurs to move to seven locations his bravery and service to our country, State championships in 2009, and then around the country—and, in particular, his dedication and commitment to our again in 2011. Our coaches for our to Sparta—for the high-speed fiber military, and to the entire Warsaw youth, it is not only about the scores internet and relatively low cost of liv- community for coming out to support and about their winning, but they are ing. This would allow innovators and this true American hero. We are in- responsible as a role model—their play- job creators to live affordably and debted to his service, and we honor him ers look up to them—and the most suc- work globally. today. cessful coaches also practice what they Mr. Speaker, this is a great reason to f preach. We want our coaches to instill move to Sparta, but it is not the only TRIBUTE TO GAIL KEMLER integrity in our kids and to show them reason. I urge entrepreneurs and fami- the value of teamwork, commitment, (Mr. BISHOP of Michigan asked and lies to live in Sparta for the wonderful and perseverance. quality of life, sense of community, was given permission to address the That is exactly what Coach Harbach and incredible heart that makes this House for 1 minute and to revise and has done for these many years. I know town a wonderful place to call home. extend his remarks.) the Crusader community joins me in Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speak- f thanking Coach Harbach for his 16 er, I rise today to pay tribute to an in- years leading their team from the side- BUDGET RESOLUTION spiring woman in my district, Mrs. lines. (Mrs. LAWRENCE asked and was Gail Kemler. Gail is celebrating her given permission to address the House 100th birthday this month on October f for 1 minute.) 28. WILDFIRES IN THE WEST Mrs. LAWRENCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise Gail has lived in Rochester, Michi- (Mr. LAMALFA asked and was given today, along with millions of middle gan, since 1931, and has been an inte- permission to address the House for 1 class Americans, to oppose the Repub- gral part of the city—through her minute and to revise and extend his re- lican budget resolution. steadfast volunteerism with the Roch- marks.) Mr. Speaker, I strongly support tax ester Board of Education; Daughters of Mr. LAMALFA. Mr. Speaker, as we reform. Unfortunately, this budget res- the American Revolution, Stoney all know, the wildfires in the West olution is a partisan tax reform pack- Creek Chapter; Rochester-Avon Histor- have been very devastating for a lot of age. I support tax reform, which will ical Society; Rochester Lions Club; and people, a lot of property, and a lot of help lower taxes for low-income Ameri- Questers Organization. habitat. cans, I support tax reform that will re- Gail’s longest tenure as a volunteer One of the subjects this week in the build our middle class, and I support was with the Rochester Area Neighbor- Natural Resources Committee was a tax reform that simplifies the Tax Code hood House, an organization that she sage-grouse habitat that has affected for small businesses. I will not support has helped from its inception. She reso many western States, including my a tax plan that disproportionately mained a dedicated volunteer with the own district in northern California, gives advantages to the rich. organization for over 50 years. and my friend in Nevada as well. We But, Mr. Speaker, this tax plan will An active supporter of the Rochester worked very hard to have a good sage- raise our deficit by $2.4 trillion over Community Schools, Gail also served grouse plan, except what is the com- the next decade. Mr. Speaker, this tax as a room mother and scout leader, and mon bond in all this and the inability plan will take away critical dollars was one of the original PTA founders. to have a successful recovery of this from an infrastructure bill that our She has been a member of the First species as well as use of the land? The Nation so desperately needs. Congregational Church in Rochester Federal Government. We still have time. Let’s work to- for over 85 years, and has served on the In the past, its involvement has been gether to do what is right for all Amer- building committee, pastoral search to merely slow down a process or say icans. Let’s work together and do what committee, and board of trustees. no to wise management practices. Cat- is right for our country. Gail and her late husband, Donald tle graze is a very effective tool, when f Kemler, have four children, nine grand- prescribed correctly, to help make this children, four great-grandchildren, and habitat better and more sustainable RECOGNIZING ANTHONY SMITH four great-great-grandchildren. long-term. (Mr. LAHOOD asked and was given Mr. Speaker, I am honored to have We need more cooperation, we need permission to address the House for 1 such a selfless, giving, and inspira- the Federal Government to be more

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.018 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8157 bold in putting out the type of policy rule to the floor today. But I serve on The debate that we are going to have that will help the grazing be an effec- the Rules Committee by night. By day, today is will we or will we not confront tive tool in that and not cower every I serve on the Budget Committee with the fact that America has one of the time an environmental organization my friend Mr. PASCRELL and others, least competitive tax codes in the may come along and wish to threaten and we have been working since Janu- world, but Americans deserve one of the entanglement of lawsuits that are ary to produce a budget for the United the most competitive tax codes in the stopping good management like that. States of America. world. It is hurting the habitat, it is hurting I have got to tell you, Mr. Speaker, The debate we are going to have the sage-grouse population, it is hurt- we produced a whale of a budget com- today, Mr. Speaker, is not about the ing western lands, and western econ- ing out of the House Rules Committee. details of tax reform, but about the omy. You remember that budget, you sup- premise of can we do better for the Mr. Speaker, we need solutions com- ported that budget. We did a fantastic American people or can we not. ing from Washington, D.C., not impedi- collaborative job bringing that budget I have the great benefit, Mr. Speaker, ments. to the floor, and then it went to the of not having to learn what I know United States Senate. about this Chamber from watching it f Now, you know how this happens, Mr. on TV or reading it in the headlines. I PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Speaker. We all grew up watching, ‘‘I consider myself very blessed to have OF SENATE AMENDMENT TO H. am just a bill sitting here on Capitol the opportunity to serve among these CON. RES. 71, CONCURRENT RES- Hill. Well, it is a long, long journey to men and women. If I just had to read OLUTION ON THE BUDGET FOR the capital city, it is a long, long wait about them in the headlines, I would FISCAL YEAR 2018 while I am sitting in committee.’’ We have a very low opinion of them. I con- all know the song from our childhood. fess, I would have a low opinion. But Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, by di- It is a long process to move a bill because I get to work with these men rection of the Committee on Rules, I through, and nine times out of ten, it and women, Mr. Speaker, I get to see call up House Resolution 580 and ask comes back differently from the United the real commitment to their constitu- for its immediate consideration. States Senate than the way we sent it encies, the real commitment to their The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- over there. home States, the real desire to deliver lows: Well, Mr. Speaker, we have an oppor- on behalf of their constituencies and on H. RES. 580 tunity today by concurring with the behalf of the United States of America. Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- Senate amendment, and if we pass this We may have a divisive debate today. lution it shall be in order to take from the rule, that is what we will have an op- We sometimes do. But my prediction Speaker’s table the concurrent resolution (H. portunity to do. If we pass this rule, we here in hour one, Mr. Speaker, is that Con. Res. 71) establishing the congressional will have an opportunity to have the by the time we leave this floor, we are budget for the United States Government for debate, concur in the Senate amend- going to have an agreement to take on fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appro- ment, and bring a unified budget to the priate budgetary levels for fiscal years 2019 one of the challenges that no party has through 2027, with the Senate amendment floor. been able to take on since Democrats thereto, and to consider in the House, with- Now, what does that mean, Mr. and Republicans came together in 1986 out intervention of any point of order, a mo- Speaker? to get it done. tion offered by the chair of the Committee We have already been working on ap- It is my great hope that we will use on the Budget or her designee that the House propriations bills this cycle, and for that model, that we will repeat that concur in the Senate amendment. The Sen- the uninitiated, that is the bulk of the model, that we will improve upon that ate amendment and the motion shall be con- Federal spending that goes on. All of model, and that we will produce some- sidered as read. The motion shall be debat- the mandatory spending that you and I thing that all of our constituency can able for one hour equally divided and con- both know about, Mr. Speaker, Medi- trolled by the chair and ranking minority be proud of. I know that America is care, Social Security, those important hungry for tax reform, and I believe we member of the Committee on the Budget. income support programs on which so The previous question shall be considered as can deliver it for them. ordered on the motion to adoption without many Americans depend, that money is Mr. Speaker, I urge all of my col- intervening motion. already going out the door. leagues to support this rule, support So today what we have an oppor- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- the underlying concurrence in the Sen- tunity to do in passing this budget is to tleman from Georgia is recognized for 1 ate amendment. create what they call reconciliation in- hour. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of structions, because contained inside Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, for the my time. this unified budget of which the House CGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- Mr. M and the Senate agree are reconciliation myself such time as I may consume. tomary 30 minutes to the gentleman instructions that allow us to bring (Mr. MCGOVERN asked and was from Massachusetts (Mr. MCGOVERN), what I believe will be the most com- given permission to revise and extend pending which I yield myself such time prehensive, fundamental reform of our his remarks.) as I may consume. During consider- Tax Code since Tip O’Neill and Ronald Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I want ation of this resolution, all time yield- Reagan did it in 1986. to thank the gentleman from Georgia, ed is for the purpose of debate only. Since 1986, 4 decades ago, Mr. Speak- my friend Mr. WOODALL, for yielding GENERAL LEAVE er, we have an opportunity today to do me the customary 30 minutes. Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I ask something that no other Congress has Mr. Speaker, I rise in very strong op- unanimous consent that all Members been able to do since I have been an position to this rule. Today, House Re- may have 5 legislative days to revise adult, and I am excited about that op- publicans are pushing a job-killing and extend their remarks. portunity. budget so they can use fast-track rec- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Now, to be fair, we are going to have onciliation procedures to steamroll objection to the request of the gen- a lot of disagreement about how to get through their billionaires-first tax tleman from Georgia? that done. That is not the debate we plan. There was no objection. are having today. For any of my col- Mr. Speaker, we are supposed to be leagues or anybody back home, Mr. the people’s House. We ought to have b 1230 Speaker, who is worried that right here the people’s budget, a budget that Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, it is in this debate on a Wednesday, we are helps the millions of Americans who budget day. I don’t know if you were as going to sort out our entire Tax Code, sent us here to Congress, not a budget excited about that when you got out of fear not, fear not. That is not the de- that helps only a few, the well-con- bed this morning as I was, but, to be bate we are having today. nected and the well-off. fair, I sit on the Budget Committee. The debate we are having today, Mr. I disagree with Mr. WOODALL. This is I have the great honor of serving on Speaker, is will we or will we not take not a time to celebrate. This is a ter- the Rules Committee, and that is why on the challenge of reforming our Tax rible budget. This budget will dev- I have the great honor of bringing this Code. I believe that we will. astate America’s investments in good

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.020 H25OCPT1 H8158 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 paying jobs, it threatens growing expensive for working families. It un- might be debating the details of the wages and the bedrock promise of a se- dercuts key supports for veterans and tax reform plan that does not exist cure and healthy retirement. It makes their families. today. I see that we are, in fact, going cuts across the board that would hurt What is particularly offensive is that to do that. seniors, children, veterans, and the Republicans are using this terrible There are a lot of studies out there hardworking people across this country budget as a means of passing tax cuts on this tax reform plan that does not who are already struggling to get by. for the wealthy as quickly as possible yet exist, but let me tell you that we Why are Republicans doing this? regardless of the consequences and can all agree that we have the single Well, it is all in the name of fast- without bipartisan support. least-competitive Tax Code on the tracking the Ryan-McConnell tax plan, The tax reform framework supported planet today. We can all agree that which explodes the deficit by $1.5 tril- by Republicans in Congress will raise with the click of a mouse, a company lion, and then provides multitrillion- taxes on the middle class and cut taxes can transfer its assets overseas and dollar tax breaks for the wealthiest for the wealthy. Under the Republican grow jobs there instead of growing jobs Americans. We Democrats think this is plan, the top 1 percent would receive 80 here. a horrible idea. percent of all tax benefits. Let me re- Let us have the debate that we want What is particularly astonishing is peat that. The top 1 percent would re- to have about who should bear the bur- the blatant hypocrisy of Republican ceive 80 percent of all tax benefits. den of American taxation. That is a le- leaders pushing this deficit-busting Give me a break. gitimate debate and we should have it. budget. Republicans are always telling Those making more than $900,000 a But let us not have the debate about us how much they care about the def- year would receive an average tax cut whether foreign workers should benefit icit, but when it comes to giving their of more than $200,000. Think about or American workers should benefit beloved tax cuts to their billionaire that. A person working full time in from American capital, because that friends, they suddenly develop a con- minimum wage makes $290 a week be- answer should be clear in the hearts venient case of amnesia. They say: fore taxes. And under this plan, people and minds of every single Member of What deficit? Don’t worry. These tax who make over $432 an hour, $900,000 a this Chamber. breaks will pay for themselves. year, would get a massive tax break. We have an opportunity, Mr. Speak- Mr. Speaker, this is absurd. In this Corporations will receive a tax cut to- er, to go from worst to first. Now, I Republican-controlled Congress, we taling $2 trillion. confess that I don’t actually expect to can now say with certainty that the Who loses in this plan, Mr. Speaker? get all the way to first. I will settle for deficit and debt no longer matter. All According to the nonpartisan Tax getting up in the top five and getting of the talk by Republicans, well, they Policy Center, one in three middle out of the bottom five when it comes to didn’t really mean it. class taxpayers earning between $50,000 being able to lead in this country. But If Republicans really cared about the and $150,000 would actually receive a I want to mention, Mr. Speaker, what deficit, they would in no way imag- tax increase, and nearly half of middle I think is a source of frustration of inable bring up a bill, a budget that is class families with kids will see their constituencies on both sides of the as reckless as this to the floor. This taxes go up. aisle, and that is the us-against-them kind of shows what they truly believe, Can you believe that: raising taxes conversation that goes on day in and where their values are, where their pri- on the middle class to pay for tax cuts day out. orities are. for billionaires and corporations? I looked at the chart my friend from How many times have Republicans This is insane. Massachusetts brought down to the talked about the importance of a bal- To make matters worse, Republicans House floor. It happened to be in uni- anced budget? are planning to steamroll their tax versity colors of Georgia’s red and The Speaker called for a deficit-neu- plan through Congress. We are reading black, but I can see that as a represent- tral tax plan in his Better Way agenda. in the press that we might see actual ative of all the hardworking families in Well, I guess this debt-creating budget text of their plan next week and maybe my district, that chart didn’t do any- is the ‘‘Somewhat Less Better Way’’ a markup and floor consideration a thing to inspire me about the impact of plan. week or two after that. tax reform going forward. Your budget chair took to Twitter Really? Don’t you think we owe it to My friend quoted the Tax Policy Cen- just 2 weeks ago to chastise Senate Re- our constituents to have thoughtful, ter. Now, The Wall Street Journal publicans for not pursuing a balanced open debate on this legislation which called the Tax Policy Center a shill for budget, yet now she is fully in support will impact every single one of them? those groups that don’t want to see any of their budget, which adds $1.5 trillion I guess not. tax reform of any kind, but that is cur- to the deficit with no way to pay for it. Democrats agree that our tax system rently. The Tax Policy Center has been Now, let me spell this out for my Re- needs to be updated, to be more fair, doing research for a long time. The republican friends. This is not a balanced and especially to be more fair to the search my friend from Massachusetts budget. Clearly, Republicans des- middle class and to working families. quoted was a study of a bill that does perately need a refresher on basic We have always been willing to engage not yet exist. The research I am going arithmetic. in real bipartisan tax reform, but the to quote is of historical tax rates in Mr. Speaker, there is absolutely Republican tax framework is not tax this country. nothing balanced about hitting middle reform. It is just one more GOP multi- What my friends at the Tax Policy class families and millions of hard- trillion-dollar giveaway to the wealthi- Center said is that about 30 percent of working Americans with cuts while est at the expense of the middle class Americans—one-third of Americans— giving billionaires and corporations and working Americans. pay no income taxes today; that the tax cuts they simply do not need. Bil- In all my time in Congress, I have Tax Code, as it exists today, protects lionaires aren’t knocking down our never seen a budget and a tax plan that them from any tax liability at all. door asking for more tax breaks. This harms so many just to benefit so few. I Now, what we are proposing when we is disgusting. This is shameful. urge my colleagues to vote against this get into fundamental tax reform, Mr. The Republican budget destroys mid- rule, to vote against this cruel Repub- Speaker, is to double the standard de- dle class jobs by stealing hundreds of lican budget, and to oppose a tax plan duction. For those families that are al- billions of dollars from investments in that puts wealthy corporations and the ready claiming the standard deduction, infrastructure, job training, advanced top 1 percent ahead of hardworking we are talking about doubling it. Now, energy, and research and development. middle class families. the brackets are still in question, the It devastates Medicare and Medicaid. It Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of details are still in question, but we are demands deep cuts to safety net pro- my time. talking about doubling the number of grams like SNAP. I am talking about Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield folks who don’t have to deal with the food for hungry children and hard- myself such time as I may consume. IRS at all. working families. It goes after college Mr. Speaker, I had an opportunity to Today, about 30 percent of American affordability. It makes college more mention at the beginning that we families don’t pay any income taxes,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.022 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8159 and that same 30 percent gets a refund- Let us not mislead the American peo- Lowest quintile, 0.2, 0.8, ¥50, ¥5.4, 0.0, 1.0; able tax credit that rebates to them ple into believing there is a free lunch Second quintile, 0.5, 3.0, ¥230, ¥5.0, 0.1, 4.1; their entire Social Security and Medi- anywhere in this Tax Code. We have an Middle quintile, 0.5, 4.9, ¥420, ¥3.4, 0.4, 10.2; Fourth quintile, 0.4, 4.3, ¥450, ¥1.7, 0.9, 17.3; care contribution that they make and opportunity to move from worst to Top quintile, 3.0, 86.6, ¥10,610, ¥8.5, ¥1.3, the entire Social Security and welfare first, and every single American, re- 67.4; All, 1.7, 100.0, ¥1,690, ¥6.7, 0.0, 100.0. contribution that their employer gardless of their region, regardless of Addendum. makes on their behalf. their politics, is going to benefit from 80–90, ¥0.4, ¥3.5, 820, 1.8, 1.2, 14.4; 90–95, Now, these are not my numbers; that change. They benefited from it ¥0.3, ¥1.5, 760, 1.1, 0.8, 10.3; 95–99, 1.8, 11.9, these are the Tax Policy Center’s num- ¥7,640, ¥5.3, 0.2, 15.4; Top 1 percent, 8.7, 79.7, when Democrats and Republicans came ¥ ¥ ¥ bers, that a full third of Americans 207,060, 17.4, 3.5, 27.2; Top 0.1 percent, together to do it in 1986, and they will 9.7, 39.6, ¥1,022,120, ¥19.0, ¥1.8, 12.2. aren’t paying one penny in Federal in- benefit from it when we come together Source: Urban-Brookings Tax Policy Cen- come tax or Federal payroll tax of any and get it done today, as I believe that ter Microsimulation Model (version 0217–1) kind. we will. We must. The full report can be found at: http:// www.taxpolicycenter.org/sites/default/files/ b 1245 Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of my time. publication/144971/a preliminary analysis of the unified framework 0.pdf Now, I am not here to debate the wis- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield dom of that, Mr. Speaker. I am here to myself such time as I may consume. Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, where tell you that I don’t know how much Mr. Speaker, boy, I don’t even know did I get this figure about adding to the lower I can cut taxes in that group. I where to begin after that. deficit by $1.5 trillion? Did I just make don’t know how in the world I can My good friend, the gentleman from that up? lower the tax burden on folks who are Georgia, made reference to the Tax I will tell the gentleman where I got not only paying no income taxes, but Policy Center, and I have the report it from. It is basically the Republican are having all of their payroll taxes re- from the Tax Policy Center here. In report in the Senate on the budget. Let bated to them also. fact, it is their analysis that was the me read from their report here. It says: ‘‘This title includes two rec- Is this a group we should talk about, basis for that chart that I held during onciliation instructions to the Senate Mr. Speaker? Should we talk about my opening remarks, which said that committees. The first would allow the folks who are grabbing onto the bot- the top 1 percent would receive 80 per- Finance Committee to reduce revenues tom rung of the economic ladder and cent of the tax breaks based on the Re- and change outlays to increase the def- struggling to climb to the top? publican framework. icit by not more than $1.5 trillion over We should, and we do. Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD Should we talk about how it is that the next 10 years.’’ excerpts from the Tax Policy Center These are the words of Republicans the entitlement system, the benefit report. system in this country, is trapping peo- in the Senate. [From the Urban Institute & Brookings In- The gentleman wants to know why ple at the bottom of the ladder and not stitution Tax Policy Center Staff, Sept. 29, we are talking about the tax plan. It is allowing them to climb to the top? 2017] because we are presented here with a We should. A PRELIMINARY ANALYSIS OF THE UNIFIED budget that essentially fast tracks a I would say to you, Mr. Speaker, that FRAMEWORK tax plan. He is right, we don’t have all it would be misleading to the American ABSTRACT the details yet because it is being nego- public to suggest that this tax bill is The Tax Policy Center has produced pre- tiated and written in some back room focusing its attention in one direction liminary estimates of the potential impact somewhere in this building. I wish I instead of another direction. The fact of proposals included in the ‘‘Unified Frame- knew where it was so we could maybe work for Fixing Our Broken Tax Code.’’ We simply is that I can’t lower taxes any try to find out some more details. But more at the bottom of the spectrum. find they would reduce federal revenue by $2.4 trillion over ten years and $3.2 trillion what we do know is the framework We are talking about lowering taxes that the Republicans have put forward, on corporations. That doesn’t inspire over the second decade (not including any dynamic feedback). In 2018, all income and that is the basis for the analysis many people. I have that conversation groups would see their average taxes fall, but that economist after economist have regularly: ROB, what in the world are some taxpayers in each group would face tax stated that this budget basically is a you doing lowering taxes on corpora- increases. Those with the very highest in- giveaway to the wealthiest individuals tions? comes would receive the biggest tax cuts. in this country, and it is not somehow I support the FairTax, and in the The tax cuts are smaller as a percentage of a break for the middle class. It is the spirit of folks who are not particularly income in 2027, and taxpayers in the 80th to 95th income percentiles would, on average, exact opposite. enthusiastic about tax reform, I am This is a gift for billionaires and mil- not in that camp. I am enthusiastic experience a tax increase. The findings and conclusions contained lionaires, and it does nothing for work- about tax reform. I just thought there within are those of the authors and do not ing families. That is why this is all rel- was a better way. I couldn’t get the necessarily reflect positions or policies of evant. This budget puts in place proce- votes to have my better way done. the Urban Institute, the Brookings Institu- dures for the Republicans to fast track My better way is the FairTax, and tion or their funders. a tax bill that they are now writing in what I would say to you is corporations ALTERNATIVE WAYS OF PRESENTING CHANGE some back room somewhere that no- don’t pay taxes. Corporations do not IN DISTRIBUTION OF TAX BURDENS body will see probably until the last pay taxes. They collect taxes from BY EXPANDED CASH INCOME PERCENTILE minute, and basically it will be rushed their consumers in the form of higher Expanded cash income percentile, Percent through here, and it is a big giveaway prices, from their employees in the change in after-tax income, Share of total to the wealthiest individuals in this form of lower wages, or from their federal tax change (%), Average federal tax country. I just wanted to clarify that shareholders in the form of lower cap- change, Dollars, Percent, Share of federal for the RECORD. ital—lower capital returns. taxes, Change (% points), Under the proposal Mr. Speaker, let me say that Repub- Now, lest you think: ROB, you are (%). lican plans for tax reform would also Panel A: 2018. just a conservative Republican from Lowest quintile, 0.5, 1.1, ¥60, ¥10.4, 0.0, 0.9; eliminate the State and local tax de- the Deep South. What do you know Second quintile, 0.9, 4.1, ¥290, ¥9.3, 0.0, 3.8; duction, called SALT. This deduction about this? Middle quintile, 1.2, 8.2, ¥660, ¥7.2, 0.2, 10.1; prevents millions of middle class fami- I will again quote the Tax Policy Fourth quintile, 1.2, 11.6, ¥1,110, ¥5.5, 0.6, lies from being taxed twice on the same Center, which says that a full 20 per- 18.7; Top quintile, 3.3, 74.5, ¥8,470, ¥9.6, ¥0.7, income by deducting already-paid cent of the corporate income tax bur- 66.5; All, 2.1, 100.0, ¥1,570, ¥8.6, 0.0, 100.0. State and local taxes from their Fed- den falls on workers. Fair enough. If we Addendum. ¥ ¥ eral income tax. want to argue about where the tax 80–90, 0.8, 5.1, 1,140, 3.1, 0.9, 15.1; 90–95, Half the people hit by this tax hike 0.7, 3.3, ¥1,500, ¥2.6, 0.7, 11.4; 95–99, 2.3, 12.8, rates are going to end up and how the ¥7,620, ¥6.9, 0.3, 16.4; Top 1 percent, 8.5, 53.3, would be middle class families earning cuts are going to look and what the ¥129,030, ¥17.6, ¥2.6, 23.5; Top 0.1 percent, a household income of less than policies are going to be, let’s have that 10.2, 30.3, ¥722,510, ¥20.4, ¥1.7, 11.1. $100,000, and local communities will debate. Panel B: 2027. also feel that pain.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:28 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.024 H25OCPT1 H8160 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 Repealing the SALT deduction, taxation because it adds back mandatory that they added an amendment to that which would effectively make State payments of state and local taxes already budget before us today, the so-called and local taxes more costly for tax- paid, as taxable income. Capito amendment. Federal tax reform requires an intergov- payers, would put pressure on local ernmental partnership because decisions at Mr. Speaker, let me be clear. A vote governments to lower taxes. the federal level will affect state and local for this rule is a vote for the budget, is The bipartisan National Governors governments profoundly. We look forward to a vote to repeal the State and local de- Association said in a September 22 let- working with Congress on bipartisan tax reduction. ter that the SALT deduction, ‘‘has con- form to maintain balance between our sys- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tributed to the stability of State reve- tems and modernize the federal tax system time of the gentleman has expired. nues that are essential for providing to meet the needs of our citizens. Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield public services.’’ These services include Sincerely, an additional 1 minute to the gen- healthcare, police and fire depart- Gov. BRIAN SANDOVAL, tleman from New Jersey. NGA Chair. Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, my ments, and schools. Gov. STEVE BULLOCK, Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD NGA Vice Chair. colleagues representing New Jersey, the letter from the National Governors New York, Illinois, California, Min- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I want Association. to ask Members to vote to defeat the nesota, and so many other States, in- NATIONAL GOVERNORS ASSOCIATION, previous question; and if we do, I will cluding Georgia, including Lake Gene- Washington, DC, September 22, 2017. offer an amendment proposed by Rep- va, Wisconsin, better think long and Re Tax Reform (State and Local Tax Deduc- hard about their vote today. resentative SCHNEIDER that would pro- tion and Municipal Bonds). The American people are watching to hibit any legislation from limiting or Hon. MITCH MCCONNELL, see if they vote to raise their taxes. repealing the State and local tax de- Majority Leader, U.S. Senate, This amendment, the Capito amend- duction. Washington, DC. ment, in the budget falsely claims that Hon. CHUCK SCHUMER, Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent to insert the text of my amend- the SALT only benefits high-income Minority Leader, U.S. Senate, taxpayers. Let’s take a look at that. Washington, DC. ment in the RECORD, along with extra- The fact is that repealing it would Hon. PAUL RYAN, neous material, immediately prior to Speaker, House of Representatives, the vote on the previous question. hurt the middle class and working fam- Washington, DC. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ilies. At the same time, how do you Hon. NANCY PELOSI, objection to the request of the gen- justify—through the Speaker, how do Minority Leader, House of Representatives, tleman from Massachusetts? you justify keeping the deduction still Washington, DC. There was no objection. viable for corporations? They can de- Hon. ORRIN HATCH, Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, to dis- duct the State and local taxes, but the Chairman, Committee on Finance, U.S. Senate, families of America can’t? How can you Washington, DC. cuss this proposal and to discuss the Hon. RON WYDEN, importance of the State and local tax justify that? Ranking Member, Committee on Finance, U.S. deduction, I yield 2 minutes to the gen- I want to hear your justification of Senate, Washington, DC. tleman from New Jersey (Mr. PAS- that. That is going to be a good one. Hon. KEVIN BRADY, CRELL), who has been outspoken on this Forty percent of taxpayers with in- Chairman, Committee on Ways & Means, House issue on behalf of States and commu- comes between $50,000 and $75,000, more of Representatives, Washington, DC. nities and middle class taxpayers. than 70 percent of those making Hon. RICHARD NEAL, Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, there $100,000 to $200,000, claim the State and Ranking Member, Committee on Ways & Means, local tax deduction. U.S. Senate, Washington, DC. are some real terrible parts to this The SPEAKER pro tempore. The DEAR MAJORITY LEADER MCCONNELL, MI- budget, but this, to me, is the worst. NORITY LEADER SCHUMER, SPEAKER RYAN, MI- This deduction has been part of our time of the gentleman has again ex- NORITY LEADER PELOSI, CHAIRMAN HATCH, tax system before there was an income pired. RANKING MEMBER WYDEN, CHAIRMAN BRADY, tax, going back to the Civil War, for Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield AND RANKING MEMBER NEAL: The nation’s the very reasons that my friend from an additional 30 seconds to the gen- governors appreciate congressional efforts to Massachusetts just talked about. It tleman from New Jersey. reform and improve federal tax policy. Fed- wasn’t just picked off the shelf. People Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I will eral and state tax systems are complex and count on it. People count on this. make it short, but I could stay here all often interconnected. Therefore, as Congress afternoon on this because I feel it in considers reforms, we urge you to maintain Mr. Speaker, I rise to urge my col- the balance between state and federal tax leagues to vote ‘‘no’’ on the rule, the my bone marrow. systems by preserving the income exclusion previous question, the budget, the We are talking about tax cuts. We for municipal bond interest and the deduct- weather, whatever. are increasing the tax burden on the ibility for state and local taxes. We know that this budget resolution middle class, and you cannot deny it. The financing engine that drives U.S. in- paves the way for a tax reform bill There is no place in that budget that frastructure is the $3.8 trillion municipal done through reconciliation. I am sure you can deny it. None whatsoever. You bond market. Changes to federal laws and that is interesting. Reconciliation on could say: Well, we are going to do this regulations should not increase issuance costs to states for municipal bonds or dimin- Governor Street in Paterson, New Jer- over here and this. ish investor demand for them. If federal sey. I am sure they want to know rec- Look, I am tired of that walnut changes make issuing municipal bonds cost- onciliation when we are talking about trick. Okay? Have you figured out prohibitive for states and local governments, their pocketbooks; a dubious maneuver which it is under? then fewer projects could be funded, taxes that blocks us Democrats completely Groups representing realtors, may- could rise, fewer jobs created, and economic out of the process and allows Repub- ors, teachers, firefighters, sheriffs, et growth will suffer. licans to pass a purely partisan, juiced- cetera, all support retaining the State Governors also believe that no federal law up bill. and local tax deduction. It is bad pol- or regulation should preempt, limit, or inter- icy, plain and simple. fere with the sovereign rights of states. A Comprehensive tax reform is a goal mark of sovereignty includes the ability to we should all share, and lasting tax re- Mr. Speaker, I appeal to you, we have develop and operate revenue and tax sys- form should be bipartisan. My friend enough ammunition. We don’t need tems. Deductibility of state and local taxes from Georgia, I think, believes that, this ammunition for next year. Let’s has contributed to the stability of state rev- but this ain’t it. think about the budget of the Amer- enues that are essential for providing public While they are cutting deals behind ican people in a nonpartisan way. services. We encourage you to avoid changes closed doors, what we are pushing is Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the tax code that would undermine the eliminating the State and local tax de- myself such time as I may consume. ability of state and local governments to duction, and that is in the Senate Mr. Speaker, if you have wondered meet the needs of the citizens whom we all serve. budget. They wrote it right out, the what kind of passion we have on the Eliminating state and local tax deduct- Capito amendment. Budget Committee, I will just once ibility, moreover, exposes a higher share of Republicans are so adamant about again recognize how much I enjoy serv- an itemizing taxpayer’s income to federal eliminating this middle class benefit ing with my friend from New Jersey on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.026 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8161 the Budget Committee. Everything you sumer. We are the only ones. At the ing that here on the floor today, Mr. just heard from him was from the end of the day, the buck stops with Speaker. heart. I get to hear it in committee day each and every American family. I reserve the balance of my time. in and day out, and I will tell you, we The debate over how to structure a Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield end up with a better product as a result corporate income Tax Code, Mr. Speak- 30 seconds to the gentleman from New of that. It is a legitimate debate to er, is perfectly legitimate. To suggest Jersey (Mr. PASCRELL) to respond. have about the State and local tax de- that the fact that the personal code Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, fami- duction. It is perfectly legitimate. and the business code look different lies in my friend’s State, the great There are those from low-tax juris- and that is somehow nefarious is to State of Georgia, will lose a tax deduc- dictions that ask: Why would the Fed- deny what is just now over 100 years of tion of $9,000, those families, on aver- eral Government and the Federal tax- income tax policy in this country. age. I think you are concerned about that. You cannot fib that you are not. payer want to subsidize those States b 1300 that are higher-tax jurisdictions? And the fact of the matter is you There are those jurisdictions that are Mr. PASCRELL. Will the gentleman used the words—through the Speaker, low-tax jurisdictions. yield? you used the words that your States Because the gentleman’s constitu- Mr. WOODALL. I yield to the gen- are subsidizing the donor States? Well, ency in New Jersey makes so much tleman from New Jersey. let me give you an idea of New Jersey. money, they pay so much more in Fed- Mr. PASCRELL. So, now that you States like West Virginia, the aver- eral income taxes. And States like have agreed to the fact the families are age SALT deduction claim is $9,463 per mine in Georgia, States like Alabama, going to get shafted but corporations household; in Ohio, it is $10,445; in Wis- States like Mississippi are the bene- will continue to be able to deduct their consin, it is $11,653. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ficiary of those dollars as the Federal local and State taxes, this is pertinent time of the gentleman has expired. Government distributes them. Undeni- to the budget, my friend, through the Mr. MCGOVERN. I yield the gen- ably, there is a case to be made on both Speaker. Right in the bill, the budget bill we tleman an additional 30 seconds, and sides of this issue. this will probably have to be it be- The falsehood, Mr. Speaker, is to sug- are talking about right now, the rule, cause, unfortunately, we have so many gest that we are deciding that issue previous question, related to changes speakers over here. I wish I could enjoy today. We are not. We are not. in Federal tax laws, which may include the loneliness that my colleague from I don’t blame any of my colleagues reducing the Federal deduction such as Georgia enjoys that nobody wants to for fighting for their constituency at this—this is right from the budget. speak to defend this budget. the height of their ability, at the high- Why do you say we are not discussing this? Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, 48th, est vocal point of their capability, be- 49th State, that is where New Jersey is cause issues are, at their core, local Mr. WOODALL. Reclaiming my time from my friend, Mr. Speaker, what you in getting back the money we send and personal to each and every one of down to Washington. Who subsidizes us. hear is absolutely right. I want to make that clear. Everybody is entitled whom? We are going to have to have this And Mnuchin, go back and tell the to their own opinion; they are not enti- conversation and we are going to have Secretary of the Treasury he doesn’t tled to their own facts. The words my to sort it out, and I believe it is not know what he is talking about. He says friend is reading are absolutely accu- going to be a partisan conversation. In New Jersey is being subsidized? Not rate. What they are not are absolutely fact, I know it is not going to be a par- these numbers; the numbers don’t show tisan conversation. binding. That is what they are not. What this is is such a personal and that. I know Republicans who share my You can’t defend this. You can’t de- important issue to folks on both sides friend from New Jersey’s opinion, and I fend it under any circumstances what- of it that it got its own personal line know Democrats who share SHELLEY soever, and you have admitted that we out of the United States Senate. MOORE CAPITO’s opinion on the Senate are talking facts here today. side. We know this to be true. We are I can’t even get nominations out of I rest my case. going to sort this issue out, Mr. Speak- the United States Senate, Mr. Speaker. Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I reer. I am sitting here trying to staff out reserve the balance of my time. What I fear, though, is that emotions gion four down in the great State of Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield are going to run so high that we are Georgia. Folks are delaying debate. 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from going to miss an opportunity to figure Folks won’t let me get my people in California (Ms. JUDY CHU). these things out. For example, to place. Ms. JUDY CHU of California. Mr. conflate personal deductions with busi- This is so important to the United Speaker, I rise today in strong opposi- ness deductions is to create confusion States Senate that it came with its tion to the underlying rule that would where there needn’t be any. own line. allow for consideration of the Senate- Every business in America can de- Mr. Speaker, I don’t want to dimin- passed Republican Budget. If passed, duct the meals that they serve ish the importance of this issue on ei- this budget would allow Republicans to throughout their day as a business ex- ther side. What I do want to insist fast-track their tax plan through Con- pense. I will share with the gentleman upon, though, is that it will not be de- gress without Democratic support. that my family cannot deduct our cided during this hour today; and I Now, I stand in support of a tax plan meals from our income taxes. want to insist, Mr. Speaker, that it to help the middle class, but that is not Every business out there that has will not be decided on partisan lines. the tax plan we are seeing proposed by rented an apartment somewhere in I would just ask of you, Mr. Speaker, Republicans. Instead, we see that 80 order to conduct business, they can de- and of my friends here on the floor, we percent of the benefits will go to the duct that rent from their income taxes have two things we can do with our richest 1 percent in this country. The as a business expense. I will share with voices: we can either sow consensus, or problem? Somebody has to pay for it, my friend, in the great State of Geor- we can sow discontent. and it looks like it could be the middle gia, I am unable to deduct my rent as I know that we are passionate about class. a business expense from my income these things in which we believe, but to I have heard from workers worried tax. suggest, Mr. Speaker, that we are not that cuts of contributions to their There is just a fundamental dif- going to come together and sort it out 401(k) plans will ruin their retirement. ference between families and busi- and do the very best we can for Ameri- I have heard from seniors worried that nesses, and that fundamental dif- cans is to sell this institution short losing homeowners’ incentives will ference goes back to what I said at the and is to further the misunderstanding, make it harder for them to stay in very beginning, and that is there is the misimpression, the misinformation their homes. And I have heard from only one taxpayer in this country. It is that the media sends out about us families worried that a repeal of the not Walmart, it is not Apple, it is not every day. I know we are better than State and local tax deduction will in- Microsoft. It is the American con- that, and I am proud to be a voice say- crease their tax burden.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.027 H25OCPT1 H8162 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 In fact, we know that one-third of can, and we should, and I believe that cause we are so very worried about the the middle class will see their taxes in- we will. national debt. crease under this plan. And the num- I reserve the balance of my time. Well, there is reason to be worried bers show that, as our constituents Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield about the national debt and not to ex- begin to learn more, they are realizing 3 minutes to the gentleman from Texas plode it by trillions of dollars with this that this plan only cuts taxes for the (Mr. DOGGETT), the ranking member on giant unpaid tax bill. wealthy and corporate interests and the Tax Policy Subcommittee of the The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. leaves middle class families behind. Ways and Means Committee. HOLDING). The time of the gentleman That is why a Reuters poll released Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, this bill has expired. yesterday found that fewer than a is truly about one thing and one thing Mr. MCGOVERN. I yield the gen- third of Americans support the Repub- only. It is about lavishing tax breaks tleman an additional 30 seconds. lican tax plan at all. on Donald Trump personally, his fam- Mr. DOGGETT. A zombie of supply- This tax plan for the rich will in- ily, and all of his billionaire buddies. It side economics is returning from the crease the deficit by $2.2 trillion. And is about lavishing tax breaks and in- dead. We know it didn’t work for Presi- who will pay for it? Your children and centives on the very same giant multi- dent Bush. We know it didn’t work in their grandchildren. They will have to national corporations that have the Reagan era. They are bringing it suffer from the cuts made down along shipped away so many American jobs, back again, saying, if you just give a the line to education, to Medicaid, to that have refused to pay their fair little more to those who have so much Medicare. share of our national security by hid- already, it will benefit everyone else. And for what? To make the rich rich- ing their profits in offshore island tax The data does not show that. er? To line the pockets of Washington havens. This is a tax bill that needs to be re- special interests? That is not right. It is about doing all that and hoping jected because it is so unfair and in- Reject this budget. Most impor- that, at this time of the year, here at equitable to the American people. This tantly, reject this tax plan. Halloween, that they can trick Amer- is much worse than the healthcare re- Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield ican middle-class families into believ- peal because its ramifications in lead- myself such time as I may consume. ing that a little of those tax benefits ing to cutting Medicare and Social Se- We have heard a lot about the dis- will trickle down to them. Because if curity will be far-reaching. There will tributional analysis of tax reform, and, they can do that, if they can pass this not be a family in America that goes as I have suggested, it is hard to do. bill, they will treat themselves, the bil- untouched. Folks who make a whole lot of money, lionaires, and the job exporters, to tax Reject this budget. Reject this awful like my friend from New Jersey’s con- benefits of almost astronomical pro- tax bill. stituency, they pay a whole lot more in portions. Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield taxes. I hope that one day my constitu- To suggest that there is anything bi- myself such time as I may consume to ency makes as much money as my partisan about this bill or anything bi- agree with some of what my friend had friend from New Jersey’s constituency, partisan about the tax proposal that to say. There will be absolutely no family and if we can stimulate the economy Republicans will unveil next week is that goes untouched. If you would like the way that I believe that this tax truly a farce. There is no bipartisan- to go to the Council of Economic Ad- proposal will, we are going to have a ship here. visers web page, Mr. Speaker, you can shot at getting that done. They learned nothing from their But we have to have these conversa- failed healthcare repeal efforts. No, see their most recent report, which tions about limiting tax deductions for they plan to use surprise, jack-in-the- suggests, on average, $4,000 in addi- the wealthiest Americans if we are box tactics to pop out a bill at the last tional wages for every wage earner in going to solve the issues that my minute, force it through this House, this country, every family in this coun- friends have raised. And reading right through our Ways and Means Com- try, making a difference for economic out of that Senate budget report, the mittee, and foist it off on the American growth. We all know that economic growth whole purpose of considering the State people. matters. More jobs mean more pressure and local tax deduction and consid- With Halloween coming, there is a on labor. More pressure on labor means ering modifying it, capping it, elimi- simple ‘‘trick or treat’’ test that you, higher wages. Higher wages mean more nating it, whatever you want to insert as an American family, can use. If you income for the Federal Government in there, Mr. Speaker, is designed around are in the top 1 percent, you get 80 per- taxes and more income for families to limiting those tax deductions that only cent of the individual benefits out of put into their pocket. this bill. benefit the wealthiest among us—that We are hearing about zombies and So just look at your income. If you only benefit the wealthiest among us. surprises and tricks. You can tell that are not up there in the $700,000 or That is the conversation that folks are Halloween is right around the corner, $900,000 range, don’t count on getting trying to have. and scaring folks is kind of the tagline Again, Mr. Speaker, there is so much much benefit out of this bill. In fact, a of Halloween, Mr. Speaker; and, sadly, more that we agree on than that we number of studies show your taxes may that is what we see going on here disagree on in this Chamber. But it ap- actually go up while others see a sig- today. pears, time and time again, we come to nificant decline in the revenue the I promise you, you have not heard a the House floor and focus, in the most richest few are asked to pay to finance single bipartisan word about this tax shrill voices, on the 20 percent of those our country. plan from my friends on the other side, And what about the idea of growing things that divide us instead of the 80 so I am going to provide those words jobs? After all, growing our economy is percent of those things that we could for my friends. I will read from yester- what we should all be about and what come together and deliver on for our day’s Wall Street Journal, Mr. Speak- is claimed for this bill. Well, I turned constituency. er: ‘‘In 2012, President Obama and his to that objective source, Goldman Tax reform doesn’t have to pass with advisers proposed lowering the cor- Sachs, the home of the Treasury Sec- 51 votes in the Senate. We move rec- porate tax rate because it ‘creates good retary and top economic advisers. onciliation bills through the Senate jobs and good wages for the middle Goldman Sachs, within the last month, with 60 votes. We have moved them class folks who work at those busi- has advised its own investors: Don’t ex- through the Senate with 70 votes. We nesses.’ ’’ have moved them through the Senate pect much out of this tax bill because with 80 votes. any momentary growth at the begin- b 1315 Growing the American economy, Mr. ning will be offset by the trillions of We can argue about what the tax re- Speaker, is a commonsense goal that is dollars of additional debt from the form ought to look like. What we can’t shared in every single region and in same people who have been telling us argue about is the benefit for American every single political quarter. Let’s not for years we can’t afford another dollar families of tax reform. make this about us here. Let’s make for abused children, and we can’t afford In 2013, Lawrence Summers, Presi- this about our bosses back home. We dollars for children’s healthcare be- dent Clinton’s Treasury Secretary and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.029 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8163 Chairman of President Obama’s Eco- with Republicans on improving the Af- trickle-down economics where the pre- nomic Council, argued that the tax on fordable Care Act. Every time the Re- dominant relief goes to the most corporate profit creates a burden with- publicans talk about rolling up their wealthy, hoping that it somehow bene- out commensurate revenues for the sleeves, we are not there. We are not fits everyone else. government, and that changing it is as invited. Now, they would like to see it a little close to a free lunch for the American So if you want bipartisanship, open fairer for working families, for small taxpayer as reformers will ever get. up this process. Go back to regular businesses, for family farmers so that That was President Obama’s Treasury order. Hold hearings. Listen to our they can share in the economic growth Secretary. ideas. Don’t write bills in the back and the prosperity that could be of- Again, we can argue about what it room and rush them to the floor and fered if we do this the correct way in a looks like. What we can’t argue about force the Members up here to vote up bipartisan fashion. is what it is intended to do and what or down on them. Yes, we want co- But instead, I fear that we are going leading experts believe it will do. In operation. We want bipartisanship, but to be witnessing history repeat itself. 2015, Democrat CHUCK SCHUMER and Re- we don’t need any lectures from any- But unlike the time of the past, we publican ROB PORTMAN cosponsored a body on the other side of the aisle. don’t have the luxury of time going Senate bill to reduce the top corporate This has been the most closed Con- forward without jeopardizing Social tax rate, which is the highest of the 35 gress in history. We don’t need any lec- Security and Medicare, and without countries in the OECD today. tures on the importance of coopera- leaving a legacy of debt once again for As CHUCK SCHUMER says: ‘‘Our inter- tion. our children and grandchildren to in- national tax system creates incentives Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the herit. to send jobs and stash profits overseas, gentleman from Wisconsin (Mr. KIND). So let’s regroup. Let’s do a budget rather than creating jobs and economic Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, I thank my that makes sense for the long-term fis- growth here in the United States.’’ We friend from Massachusetts for yielding cal solvency of important programs, can fix that together, and we will fix me the time. but especially our children’s future. that together. Mr. Speaker, I rise in opposition to This budget doesn’t get us there. Bill Clinton, in 2016, said he regretted this rule because I rise in opposition to Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to raising the corporate tax rate to its the underlying budget—a budget which reject the rule and reject the budget if current level for exactly those reasons. is really a budget buster that could be it comes up tomorrow. Who is advantaged by trying to per- before the full House for consideration Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield suade the American people that some- tomorrow. myself such time as I may consume. thing nefarious is going on here? Who It calls for an additional $1.5 trillion I actually want to associate myself is advantaged by that? I don’t know worth of debt accumulated over the to my friend from Wisconsin’s com- about my friend’s constituencies, Mr. next 10 years. They call for that, I fear, ments. I can’t disagree with a word he Speaker, but my constituency wants to in order to clear the path for unpaid- said right up until it got to the end believe we are making things work to- for tax cuts. There is a bipartisan path where he said to vote against the budg- gether. My constituency wants to be- to move forward on tax reform. It has et. Right up until there, we were on the lieve in rolling up our sleeves and sort- been 31 years since we have taken a se- same page. ing things out together. My constitu- rious run at the Federal code. It is long There is so much that we could do to- ency wants to believe that we are overdue. It is one that would simplify gether. My friend spoke out on behalf united in making a difference for them the code, that would broaden the base of small businesses and family farmers. together. and lower the rates and make us more As the Tax Code exists today, when you We have this opportunity. If we pass competitive at home, but especially see my friends put up charts about tax this rule and we concur in the under- abroad, in light of what the rest of the benefits going to the top 1 percent, lying Senate amendment, we will move world has done. they are talking about those small forward on tax reform that will leave That can also help promote economic business and family farmers. They are no American family behind. growth, but I fear that that is not the talking about that small business in The best government program we direction that the opposing party is my district that has plowed every sin- have in this country is the program taking with their tax reform proposal. gle penny back into the business—back that allows jobs to develop so folks can I say fear because we haven’t seen the into the business for new technology to have one. The best program we have in details yet. So we can’t say with cer- make their employees more produc- this country, Mr. Speaker, is one that tainty just what exactly will be offered tive, back into the business to open up allows wages to rise so that folks can over the next couple of weeks. But if a new facility, back into the business earn more. My constituency is not history is any guide, there is a pro- to add more distribution, because they looking for anything from the other clivity to pass large tax cuts that are have got 350 families who depend on side of the aisle except cooperation on not paid for. them to make that business successful freeing up the marketplace so that my If history is a guide, we have been so that those 350 families can put food constituency can go to work, so that down this road before, in the 1981 tax on their table. folks can go and make their own path- cuts, the 2001, the 2003, that promised But when the Tax Code is analyzed, way and future forward. We can do it in to bring a boon of economic growth Mr. Speaker, when the IRS sends back ways we haven’t done together since that would offset and pay for the lost the statistics, that small business in 1986, Mr. Speaker. revenue. It didn’t materialize. Instead, my district that sends every single Who is advantaged by convincing we had huge budget deficits. Unfortu- penny back into the business, they folks that cooperation, consensus, nately, today, we don’t have the luxury look rich. They look like they are the making a different together is dead? I of time to help us recover from a huge wealthiest, and they are not. They are don’t believe anyone. In fact, I would fiscal mistake. Because today, 70 mil- those small family farmers. They are tell you that not just the debate but lion baby boomers are beginning their those small family businesses that are the body politic is damaged by those massive retirement and joining Social trying to make a difference. concerns, Mr. Speaker. Security and Medicare—10,000 a day. I want to say, because my friend Mr. Speaker, I hope we will join to- If we go down this route of going from Wisconsin had a very significant gether and refute those. I reserve the with massive tax breaks that aren’t concern about blowing holes in deficits, balance of my time. paid for, we are going to jeopardize the Mr. Speaker, as you know from your Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield long-term solvency of Social Security experience, one cannot pass tax reform myself such time as I may consume. and Medicare at exactly the wrong mo- that is permanent through reconcili- I would just say to the gentleman ment in our Nation’s history. The folks ation if it adds to deficits in the out from Georgia, we don’t need lectures back home tell me they would like to years. That is what is so wonderful on cooperation and bipartisanship. We see tax reform along the lines that I about this process, Mr. Speaker. I sup- have offered to work with Republicans just described, but they are not telling port what my friend from Wisconsin on tax reform. We have offered to work me that they are more interested in said about keeping an eye on deficits. I

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.032 H25OCPT1 H8164 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 support what my friend said about When we get tax reform and get this closed. Everything is shut down. Ger- making sure Medicare and Social Secu- economy growing again, blame me. mane amendments routinely deny the rity are growing, which they do when When we can see wages rising in this ability for Members to offer them on people go back to work and when folks country again, blame me. When we the House floor because the Repub- earn more money. have an opportunity to go from worst licans don’t want to deal with them. I don’t want to be in the business of to first in the international business They are afraid they might lose. They lecturing my colleagues, Mr. Speaker. I community, blame me. don’t want to have the debate. want to be in the business of working I don’t want anybody to believe there If you want cooperation, if you want with my colleagues. But folks have a is anybody hiding here, Mr. Speaker. a bipartisan tax reform bill, then you choice when they show up to work I share with my friend from Massa- just can’t say it; you have to do some- every day. Are we going to make this a chusetts that I do not have any speak- thing. In 1986, the last time Congress day about arguing with one another? ers remaining, and I am prepared to did a comprehensive tax reform, we had Are we going to tear something down close when he is. Truth needs no de- 30 days of full committee hearings today? Are we going to build some- fense, I would say to my friend. spanning over a year. There were 26 thing up today? I stand for building Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of days of markup between September something today, Mr. Speaker. Un- my time. and December. This time, the timelines abashedly, let’s build something to- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield being reported in the press are maybe gether today. myself the balance of my time. just a week, or a little bit more, if Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Mr. Speaker, today we are consid- that. my time. ering a budget that will basically pave Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I yield the way so we can bring up a massive b 1330 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman from tax cut for billionaires. Again, the gen- Again, if recent history is any indica- Texas (Mr. DOGGETT), the distinguished tleman from Georgia mentioned the tion, we might not even get that. A bill ranking member of the Ways and nonpartisan Tax Policy Center in his might just miraculously appear one Means Subcommittee on Tax Policy. opening remarks, and this chart is day and be rushed to the floor so that Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, cer- based on their analysis. Basically, let no one has time to read it or analyze it tainly, my constituents in Texas would me repeat, the top 1 percent get 80 per- and so that none of our constituents like to see the same spirit of together- cent of all the benefits. have time to understand what is really ness that we have just heard about. If you think that that is fair, if you happening here. How has that been handled in our Ways think that that is representing your So I go back to that chart. One per- and Means Committee, and why do I constituents, then go ahead and vote cent—1 percent—of the wealthiest in- call the claims of bipartisanship here a for this budget, because it is paving the terests in this country get 80 percent of farce? way for a tax cut that will do just this. the tax breaks. Well, people in Texas would like to I don’t think it is fair. I don’t think If you think that that is fair, then know: What is the effect of being taxed anybody on the Democratic side of the vote for this budget, because this budg- on our payment of property taxes? Peo- aisle thinks it is fair, and I am hoping et paves the way for that tax bill to ple in Michigan want to know: What is that there are some on the Republican move forward. the effect of putting a cap on how side of the aisle who think that that is If you care about a balanced budget much we can contribute to our retire- not fair as well. and if you care about deficits and debt, ment savings? Other people were con- The gentleman from Georgia talks please vote ‘‘no’’ on this budget, be- cerned about adding $0.20 and a border about cooperation and about we need cause this allows us to increase the def- adjustment tax to every purchase made to get along. I mean, who disagrees icit by $1.5 trillion. from Mexico, or Canada, or elsewhere. Since May, I have been asking for with that? But actions speak louder Whatever happened to deficits mat- hearings on these matters. I have been than words. You can’t talk about open, ter? I guess it is inconvenient because asking for one single Trump adminis- transparent processes and then, as we tax cuts for billionaires matter more tration official to have the courage to just heard from the gentleman from than deficits and passing on that debt come in front of our committee and an- Texas (Mr. DOGGETT), have the Ways to our kids. swer questions about their proposal and Means Committee which is writing So I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ and the great gap between what Presi- this tax bill behind closed doors with- on the previous question, to vote ‘‘no’’ dent Trump says one day, and what out any help from the Democrats, but on the rule, to vote ‘‘no’’ on this budg- they do the next. having no hearings—not allowing any et, and to fight like hell against this They have refused every day. We administration official to come up and horrendous tax cut plan that my have been here all of September. We testify. friends on the Republican side are have been here all of October. They How is that an open and transparent pushing. This is bad policy. This is bad have refused to have a single hearing process? How does that encourage the for our country. This is bad for middle with a single Trump official because spirit of cooperation and bipartisan- class families. This is bad for not only they plan to jam through—while they ship? I mean, I thought my friends my constituents, I would argue it is yell ‘‘kumbaya,’’ they plan to jam would have learned from their terrible bad for your constituents. through a gift to the superrich and the experience with their repeal and re- It is about time that the people’s multinationals that keep shipping place of the Affordable Care Act what House starts enacting legislation that these jobs offshore. And they don’t happens when you write bills behind benefits the people of this country, not want any accountability for it. closed doors without bipartisan input, just a few who are well off and well They don’t want any public involve- without even the committees of juris- connected. ment either. They want the public to diction, by the way, in that case, delib- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance know as little about the details of their erating on what the final product of my time. sham as possible. That is why they will should be. Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield have it introduced next week, passed in I thought you would have learned myself such time as I may consume. committee the following week, forced from that process, and you ended up Mr. Speaker, sometimes I wish I onto this floor and into the Senate, and failing at the end of the day. I hope could bring school groups down here the American people have to under- that this effort that my Republican onto the House floor just to help the stand and speak up and say ‘‘no.’’ friends are now undertaking for tax next generation understand why we Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield cuts for wealthy people in this country, face some of the challenges that we myself 15 seconds to say I don’t want to I hope that that fails as well. face. We are down here today con- sneak anything past anybody. I want A lousy process usually leads to a fronted with a tax bill that folks are to claim full and total credit for what lousy product. My friends on the other certain is going to give away every- we are about to do together. I don’t side of the aisle have mastered the art thing to everybody whom they don’t want anybody to be confused about of lousy processes. In the Rules Com- want it to go to, and we are down here whose fault it is. It is my fault. mittee, almost virtually everything is confronted with the fact that there is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:41 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.033 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8165 no tax bill whatsoever to look at and it Vote ‘‘yes,’’ Mr. Speaker. Vote ‘‘yes’’ lion from Medicaid, hurting veterans, seniors is going to get sprung on folks with ab- on this rule, and vote ‘‘yes’’ on the un- with long-term care needs, children and rural solutely no notice and no ability to derlying budget and open yourself up communities. read it. to doing together what has not been The GOP budget’s steep cuts in program in- Now, either one of those things could done together in 31 years. I don’t just vestments fall most heavily on low-income be true. It happens to be that neither believe we can, I believe that we will. I families, students struggling to afford college, of those things is true. But how in the am excited about it, I am proud of it, seniors, and persons with disabilities. world do folks listening to this debate and I am ready to get to it, Mr. Speak- This Republican budget adopts Trumpcare think that we are advancing the cause er. but does even more damage because in addi- of reform? Vote ‘‘yes.’’ tion to depriving more than 20 million Ameri- Deficits do matter, to my friend’s Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a cans of healthcare, denying protection to per- point. They do matter, and the stran- member of the Budget Committee, I rise in sons with preexisting conditions, and raising glehold that the Obama regulatory strong opposition to Rule governing debate on costs for older and low-income adults, cuts economy created here in America on the Senate Amendment to H. Con. Res. 71, more than $1.8 trillion from Medicaid and economic growth reduced economic the Congressional Budget Resolution for Fis- Medicare. GDP growth by a full one-third—by a cal Year 2018, and the underlying resolution. This Republican budget ends the Medicare full one-third. Let us be very clear and direct: the resolu- guarantee and calls for replacing Medicare’s For every 0.1 percent of GDP growth, tion before us is not intended to reconcile tax guaranteed benefits with fixed payments for we talk about 200 billion additional and spending priorities to reflect the priorities the purchase of health insurance, shifting dollars coming in to the Treasury over of the American people or to reduce the deficit costs and financial risks onto seniors and dis- the 10-year window. So a full percent- and national debt or to put our fiscal house on abled workers; this represents a $500 billion age point that we have lost is $2 tril- a sustainable path to economic growth. cut to Medicare over ten years. lion coming in to the Treasury. Rather the sole purpose of Republicans Mr. Speaker, the federal budget is more Mr. Speaker, if we had Bush-era bringing this job-killing budget to the floor than a financial document; it is an expression growth instead of Obama-era growth today is to fast-track their ‘‘Billionaires First’’ of our values and priorities as a nation. over these last 5 years, the budget tax plan, which will cause significant harm to The values expressed by this Republican would be balanced today. But we are working and middle class families, especially budget are not the values of my constituents, where we are, and the question is: Can to my constituents in the Eighteenth Congres- the people of Texas, or the American people we do better tomorrow? We can. sional District of Texas. as a whole. Now, before I talk about that, Mr. The McConnell-Ryan tax plan, which this For these reasons, I oppose the Rule and Speaker, I want to recognize some of budget resolution is designed to grease the the underlying budget resolution. the folks who helped to get us here. My skids for, would raise taxes on about 1.5 mil- The material previously referred to friend from Massachusetts and I come lion Texas households, or 12.4 percent of by Mr. MCGOVERN is as follows: down here and carry the debate, but households next year. AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 580 OFFERED BY the work goes on behind every single On average, families earning up to $86,000 MR. MCGOVERN one of these doors and in every single annually would see a $794 increase in their Strike all after the resolved clause and insert: one of these committee rooms. tax liability, a significant burden on families That upon adoption of this resolution it I serve on the Budget Committee, Mr. struggling to afford child care and balance shall be in order to take from the Speaker’s Speaker, and our staff director over their checkbook. table the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. there, Rick May, has done an amazing An estimated 2.8 million Texas households 71) establishing the congressional budget for job shepherding this process, standing deduct state and local taxes with an average the United States Government for fiscal year up for the House’s work product. deduction of $7,823 in 2015. 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budg- Jenna Spealman, Andy Morton, Tim The McConnell-Ryan plan eliminates this etary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027, Flynn, Robert Cogan, Patrick Louis deduction, which would lower home values with the Senate amendment thereto, and to Knudsen, Jim Bates, Mary Popadiuk, consider in the House, without intervention and put pressure on states and towns to col- of any point of order, a motion offered by the Jonathan Romito, and Elise Anderson lect revenues they depend on to fund schools, chair of the Committee on the Budget or her are all working day and night—and roads, and vital public resources. designee that the House concur in the Senate weekends, many times—to get this The proposed elimination of the personal amendment with the amendment specified in product to the floor. exemption will harm millions of Texans by tak- section 2 of this resolution. The Senate Steve Gonzalez, Eric Davis, Robert ing away the $4,050 deduction for each tax- amendment and the motion shall be consid- Yeakel, Ellen Johnson, Emily Goff, payer and claimed dependent; in 2015, rough- ered as read. The motion shall be debatable Brad Watson, Brittany Madni, and ly 9.3 million dependent exemptions were for one hour equally divided and controlled Steve Waskiewicz are folks, Mr. Speak- claimed in the Lone Star State. by the chair and ranking minority member of the Committee on the Budget. The pre- er, who don’t come here because they Equally terrible is that the McConnell-Ryan vious question shall be considered as ordered have political passion; they come here tax plan drastically reduces the Earned In- on the motion to adoption without inter- because they have policy passion. They come Tax Credit, which encourages work for vening motion or demand for division of the want to do those things that matter. 2.7 million low-income individuals in Texas, question. They could go anywhere they want to helping them make ends meet with an aver- SEC. 2. The amendment referred to in sec- in town and make more money, but age credit of $2,689. tion 1 is as follows: At the end of the Senate they stay here working for the Amer- The EITC and the Child Tax Credit lift about amendment, add the following new section: ican people because they believe they ‘‘SEC. lll. POINT OF ORDER AGAINST ANY TAX 1.2 million Texans, including 663,000 children, BILL THAT RAISES TAXES ON MID- can make a difference, and they are out of poverty each year. DLE-CLASS FAMILIES BY ELIMI- right. This reckless and irresponsible GOP tax NATING OR LIMITING THE STATE Mr. Speaker, they are right. They plan is made all the more obscene by the fact AND LOCAL TAX DEDUCTION. can make a difference. We can make a that 80 percent of the GOP’s tax cuts go to (a) POINT OF ORDER.—It shall not be in difference. This rule—this rule—if we order in the House of Representatives or the the wealthiest 1 percent. Senate to consider any bill, joint resolution, pass it today, Mr. Speaker, will allow To achieve this goal of giving more and motion, amendment, amendment between us to concur in the Senate amendment. more to the haves and the ‘‘have mores,’’ the the Houses, or conference report that repeals Concurring in the Senate amendment GOP budget betrays seniors, children, the or limits the State and Local Tax Deduction does not bind us to the Senate process, most vulnerable, and needy, and working and (26 U.S.C. 164). but it enables us to move a bill that di- middle-class families. (b) WAIVER AND APPEAL.—Subsection (a) rection that they can process. For example, the Republican budget steals may be waived or suspended in the Senate We have seen the holdups in the Sen- hundreds of billions of dollars from critical job- only by an affirmative vote of three-fifths of ate, Mr. Speaker. I am not happy about the Members, duly chosen and sworn. An af- creating investments in infrastructure, job firmative vote of three-fifths of the Members that. That is just the way Senate proc- training, clean energy and research and devel- of the Senate, duly chosen and sworn, shall ess is. We can do better. Reconciliation opment. be required to sustain an appeal of the ruling allows us to do better, and passing this It devastates Medicare and Medicaid by cut- of the Chair on a point of order raised under rule enables us to do better. ting $500 billion from Medicare and $1.3 tril- subsection (a).

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(c) WAIVER IN THE HOUSE.—It shall not be or motion and who controls the time for de- Renacci Scott, Austin Upton in order in the House of Representatives to bate thereon.’’ Rice (SC) Sensenbrenner Valadao consider a rule or order that waives the ap- Clearly, the vote on the previous question Roby Sessions Wagner Roe (TN) Shimkus Walberg plication of subsection (a). As disposition of on a rule does have substantive policy impli- Rogers (AL) Shuster Walden a point of order under this subsection, the cations. It is one of the only available tools Rogers (KY) Simpson Walker Chair shall put the question of consideration for those who oppose the Republican major- Rohrabacher Smith (MO) Walorski with respect to the rule or order, as applica- ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- Rokita Smith (NJ) Walters, Mimi ble. The question of consideration shall be native views the opportunity to offer an al- Rooney, Thomas Smith (TX) Weber (TX) debatable for 10 minutes by the Member ini- ternative plan. J. Smucker Wenstrup tiating the point of order and for 10 minutes Ros-Lehtinen Stefanik Westerman Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I yield Roskam Stewart Williams by an opponent, but shall otherwise be de- Ross Stivers Wilson (SC) cided without intervening motion except one back the balance of my time, and I move the previous question on the res- Rothfus Taylor Wittman that the House adjourn.’’ Rouzer Tenney Womack olution. Royce (CA) Thompson (PA) Woodall THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Russell Thornberry Yoder IT REALLY MEANS question is on ordering the previous Rutherford Tiberi Yoho Sanford Tipton Young (AK) This vote, the vote on whether to order the question. Scalise Trott Young (IA) previous question on a special rule, is not The question was taken; and the Schweikert Turner Zeldin merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- Speaker pro tempore announced that NAYS—188 dering the previous question is a vote the ayes appeared to have it. against the Republican majority agenda and Adams Gabbard Nolan Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, on a vote to allow the Democratic minority to Aguilar Gallego Norcross Barraga´ n Garamendi offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about that I demand the yeas and nays. O’Halleran The yeas and nays were ordered. Bass Gomez O’Rourke what the House should be debating. Beatty Gonzalez (TX) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Pallone Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the Bera Gottheimer Panetta House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- ant to clause 8 and clause 9 of rule XX, Beyer Green, Al Pascrell scribes the vote on the previous question on this 15-minute vote on ordering the Bishop (GA) Green, Gene Payne the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the previous question will be followed by 5- Blumenauer Grijalva Pelosi consideration of the subject before the House Blunt Rochester Hanabusa Perlmutter minute votes on adopting the resolu- Bonamici Hastings being made by the Member in charge.’’ To Peters Boyle, Brendan Heck tion, if ordered; and agreeing to the Peterson defeat the previous question is to give the F. Higgins (NY) Speaker’s approval of the Journal. Pingree opposition a chance to decide the subject be- Brady (PA) Himes Pocan fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s The vote was taken by electronic de- Brown (MD) Hoyer ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that vice, and there were—yeas 229, nays Brownley (CA) Huffman Polis Price (NC) ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- 188, not voting 15, as follows: Bustos Jackson Lee Butterfield Jayapal Quigley mand for the previous question passes the [Roll No. 582] Raskin control of the resolution to the opposition’’ Capuano Jeffries YEAS—229 Carbajal Johnson (GA) Rice (NY) in order to offer an amendment. On March Ca´ rdenas Johnson, E. B. Rosen 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- Abraham Duncan (SC) Kelly (PA) Carson (IN) Jones Roybal-Allard fered a rule resolution. The House defeated Aderholt Duncan (TN) King (IA) Cartwright Kaptur Ruiz the previous question and a member of the Allen Dunn King (NY) Castor (FL) Keating Ruppersberger Amash Emmer Kinzinger Castro (TX) Kelly (IL) Rush opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, Arrington Estes (KS) Knight asking who was entitled to recognition. Chu, Judy Kennedy Ryan (OH) Babin Farenthold Kustoff (TN) Sa´ nchez Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R–Illinois) said: Cicilline Khanna Bacon Faso Labrador Clark (MA) Kihuen Sarbanes ‘‘The previous question having been refused, Banks (IN) Ferguson LaHood Clarke (NY) Kildee Schakowsky the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- Barletta Fitzpatrick LaMalfa Clay Kilmer Schiff gerald, who had asked the gentleman to Barr Fleischmann Lamborn Cleaver Kind Schneider Barton Flores Lance yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to Clyburn Krishnamoorthi Schrader Bergman Fortenberry Latta Cohen Kuster (NH) Scott (VA) the first recognition.’’ Biggs Foxx Lewis (MN) Connolly Langevin Scott, David The Republican majority may say ‘‘the Bilirakis Franks (AZ) LoBiondo Conyers Larsen (WA) Serrano vote on the previous question is simply a Bishop (MI) Frelinghuysen Loudermilk Cooper Lawrence Sewell (AL) vote on whether to proceed to an immediate Black Gaetz Love Correa Lawson (FL) Shea-Porter vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] Blackburn Gallagher Lucas Costa Lee Sherman has no substantive legislative or policy im- Blum Gianforte Luetkemeyer Courtney Levin Bost Gibbs MacArthur Sinema plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what Crist Lewis (GA) Sires Brady (TX) Gohmert Marchant Crowley Lieu, Ted they have always said. Listen to the Repub- Brat Goodlatte Marino Slaughter lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative Cuellar Lipinski Smith (WA) Brooks (AL) Gosar Marshall Cummings Loebsack Process in the United States House of Rep- Soto Brooks (IN) Gowdy Massie Davis (CA) Lofgren Speier resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s Buchanan Granger Mast Davis, Danny Lowey Suozzi how the Republicans describe the previous Buck Graves (GA) McCarthy DeFazio Lujan Grisham, Swalwell (CA) question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- Bucshon Graves (LA) McCaul DeGette M. Takano though it is generally not possible to amend Budd Graves (MO) McClintock Delaney Luja´ n, Ben Ray Burgess Griffith McHenry Thompson (MS) the rule because the majority Member con- DeLauro Lynch Byrne Grothman McKinley DelBene Maloney, Titus trolling the time will not yield for the pur- Calvert Guthrie McMorris Tonko pose of offering an amendment, the same re- Demings Carolyn B. Carter (GA) Handel Rodgers DeSaulnier Maloney, Sean Torres sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- Carter (TX) Harper McSally Deutch Matsui Tsongas vious question on the rule . . . When the mo- Chabot Harris Meadows Dingell McCollum Vargas tion for the previous question is defeated, Cheney Hartzler Meehan Doggett McEachin Veasey control of the time passes to the Member Coffman Hensarling Messer Doyle, Michael McGovern Vela Cole Herrera Beutler Mitchell ´ who led the opposition to ordering the pre- F. McNerney Velazquez Collins (GA) Hice, Jody B. Moolenaar Visclosky vious question. That Member, because he Ellison Meeks Collins (NY) Higgins (LA) Mooney (WV) Walz then controls the time, may offer an amend- Engel Meng Comer Hill Mullin Eshoo Moore Wasserman ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of Comstock Holding Newhouse Esty (CT) Moulton Schultz amendment.’’ Conaway Hollingsworth Noem Evans Murphy (FL) Waters, Maxine In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House Cook Hudson Norman Foster Nadler Watson Coleman of Representatives, the subchapter titled Costello (PA) Huizenga Nunes Frankel (FL) Napolitano Welch Cramer Hultgren Olson Fudge Neal Yarmuth ‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a refusal Crawford Hunter Palazzo to order the previous question on such a rule Culberson Hurd Palmer NOT VOTING—15 [a special rule reported from the Committee Curbelo (FL) Issa Paulsen Amodei Gutie´rrez Rooney, Francis on Rules] opens the resolution to amend- Davidson Jenkins (KS) Pearce Bishop (UT) Larson (CT) Smith (NE) ment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, sec- Davis, Rodney Jenkins (WV) Perry Bridenstine Long Thompson (CA) tion 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon re- Denham Johnson (LA) Pittenger Espaillat Lowenthal Webster (FL) jection of the motion for the previous ques- Dent Johnson (OH) Poe (TX) Garrett Richmond Wilson (FL) DeSantis Johnson, Sam Poliquin tion on a resolution reported from the Com- DesJarlais Jordan Posey b 1357 mittee on Rules, control shifts to the Mem- Diaz-Balart Joyce (OH) Ratcliffe ber leading the opposition to the previous Donovan Katko Reed Mr. MESSER changed his vote from question, who may offer a proper amendment Duffy Kelly (MS) Reichert ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:54 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.006 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8167 So the previous question was ordered. Walker Williams Yoho THE JOURNAL The result of the vote was announced Walorski Wilson (SC) Young (AK) Walters, Mimi Wittman Young (IA) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- as above recorded. Weber (TX) Womack Zeldin finished business is the question on The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Wenstrup Woodall Westerman Yoder agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of WEBER of Texas). The question is on the Journal, on which the yeas and the resolution. NOES—188 nays were ordered. The question was taken; and the Adams Fudge Neal The question is on the Speaker’s ap- Speaker pro tempore announced that Aguilar Gabbard Nolan proval of the Journal. the ayes appeared to have it. Barraga´ n Gallego Norcross Bass Garamendi O’Halleran This will be a 5-minute vote. RECORDED VOTE Beatty Gomez O’Rourke The vote was taken by electronic de- Mr. MCGOVERN. Mr. Speaker, I de- Bera Gonzalez (TX) Pallone vice, and there were—yeas 230, nays mand a recorded vote. Beyer Gottheimer Panetta 180, answered ‘‘present’’ 2, not voting Bishop (GA) Green, Al Pascrell A recorded vote was ordered. Blumenauer Green, Gene 20, as follows: The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Payne Blunt Rochester Grijalva Pelosi [Roll No. 584] Bonamici Gutie´rrez 5-minute vote. Perlmutter Boyle, Brendan Hanabusa YEAS—230 The vote was taken by electronic de- Peters F. Hastings Peterson Abraham Gibbs Newhouse vice, and there were—ayes 233, noes 188, Brady (PA) Heck Pingree Adams Goodlatte Noem not voting 11, as follows: Brown (MD) Higgins (NY) Aderholt Gowdy Norman Brownley (CA) Himes Pocan [Roll No. 583] Polis Allen Granger Nunes Bustos Hoyer Amodei Griffith AYES—233 Price (NC) O’Rourke Butterfield Huffman Arrington Grothman Olson Capuano Jackson Lee Quigley Abraham Gaetz McSally Bacon Guthrie Palazzo Carbajal Jayapal Raskin Aderholt Gallagher Meadows Banks (IN) Hanabusa Palmer Ca´ rdenas Jeffries Rice (NY) Allen Garrett Meehan Barletta Handel Pascrell Carson (IN) Johnson (GA) Rosen Amash Gianforte Messer Barr Harper Pearce Cartwright Johnson, E.B. Roybal-Allard Amodei Gibbs Mitchell Beatty Harris Pelosi Arrington Gohmert Moolenaar Castor (FL) Jones Ruiz Bilirakis Hastings Castro (TX) Kaptur Ruppersberger Perlmutter Babin Goodlatte Mooney (WV) Bishop (UT) Heck Pingree Bacon Gosar Mullin Chu, Judy Keating Rush Black Hensarling Cicilline Kelly (IL) Ryan (OH) Pocan Banks (IN) Gowdy Newhouse Blackburn Herrera Beutler Polis Barletta Granger Noem Clark (MA) Kennedy Sa´ nchez Blumenauer Higgins (LA) Ratcliffe Barr Graves (GA) Norman Clarke (NY) Khanna Sarbanes Bonamici Hill Reichert Barton Graves (LA) Nunes Clay Kihuen Schakowsky Brady (TX) Himes Roby Bergman Graves (MO) Olson Cleaver Kildee Schiff Brat Hollingsworth Roe (TN) Biggs Griffith Palazzo Clyburn Kilmer Schneider Brooks (AL) Huffman Rogers (KY) Bilirakis Grothman Palmer Cohen Kind Scott (VA) Brooks (IN) Huizenga Rokita Bishop (MI) Guthrie Paulsen Connolly Krishnamoorthi Scott, David Brown (MD) Hultgren Bishop (UT) Handel Pearce Conyers Kuster (NH) Serrano Buchanan Hunter Rooney, Thomas Black Harper Perry Cooper Langevin Sewell (AL) Budd Issa J. Blackburn Harris Pittenger Correa Larsen (WA) Shea-Porter Butterfield Johnson (GA) Roskam Blum Hartzler Poe (TX) Costa Lawrence Sherman Byrne Johnson (LA) Ross Bost Hensarling Poliquin Courtney Lee Sinema Calvert Johnson, Sam Rothfus Brady (TX) Herrera Beutler Posey Crist Levin Sires Carson (IN) Kaptur Royce (CA) Brat Hice, Jody B. Ratcliffe Crowley Lewis (GA) Slaughter Carter (TX) Katko Russell Brooks (AL) Higgins (LA) Reed Cuellar Lieu, Ted Smith (WA) Cartwright Keating Sanford Cummings Lipinski Brooks (IN) Hill Reichert Soto Castro (TX) Kelly (MS) Scalise Davis (CA) Loebsack Buchanan Holding Renacci Speier Chabot Kelly (PA) Schiff Davis, Danny Lofgren Buck Hollingsworth Rice (SC) Suozzi Chu, Judy Kennedy Schneider DeFazio Lowey Bucshon Hudson Roby Swalwell (CA) Cicilline Kildee Schweikert DeGette Lujan Grisham, Budd Huizenga Roe (TN) Takano Clay King (IA) Scott (VA) Delaney M. Burgess Hultgren Rogers (AL) Thompson (MS) Cleaver King (NY) Scott, Austin Byrne Hunter Rogers (KY) DeLauro Luja´ n, Ben Ray Cohen Krishnamoorthi Scott, David DelBene Lynch Titus Calvert Hurd Rohrabacher Tonko Cole Kuster (NH) Sensenbrenner Carter (GA) Issa Rokita Demings Maloney, Collins (NY) Kustoff (TN) Sessions DeSaulnier Carolyn B. Torres Carter (TX) Jenkins (KS) Rooney, Francis Tsongas Comstock Labrador Shea-Porter Chabot Jenkins (WV) Rooney, Thomas Deutch Maloney, Sean Conaway LaMalfa Vargas Sherman Cheney Johnson (LA) J. Dingell Matsui Conyers Lamborn Veasey Shimkus Coffman Johnson (OH) Ros-Lehtinen Doggett McCollum Cook Larsen (WA) Shuster Doyle, Michael McEachin Vela Cole Johnson, Sam Roskam Cooper Latta Simpson F. McGovern Vela´ zquez Collins (GA) Jordan Ross Cramer Lawson (FL) Smith (MO) Ellison McNerney Visclosky Collins (NY) Joyce (OH) Rothfus Crawford Lewis (MN) Smith (NJ) Engel Meeks Walz Comer Katko Rouzer Cuellar Lipinski Smith (TX) Eshoo Meng Wasserman Comstock Kelly (MS) Royce (CA) Culberson Loudermilk Smith (WA) Conaway Kelly (PA) Russell Espaillat Moore Schultz Davidson Love Esty (CT) Moulton Waters, Maxine Speier Cook King (IA) Rutherford Davis (CA) Lucas Stefanik Costello (PA) King (NY) Sanford Evans Murphy (FL) Watson Coleman Davis, Danny Luetkemeyer Foster Nadler Welch Stewart Cramer Kinzinger Scalise DeGette Lujan Grisham, Takano Crawford Knight Frankel (FL) Napolitano Yarmuth DelBene M. Schweikert Taylor Culberson Kustoff (TN) Scott, Austin Demings Maloney, Tenney Curbelo (FL) Labrador Sensenbrenner NOT VOTING—11 Dent Carolyn B. Thornberry Davidson LaHood Sessions DeSaulnier Marchant Bridenstine Lowenthal Thompson (CA) Tiberi Davis, Rodney LaMalfa Shimkus DesJarlais Marino Larson (CT) Richmond Webster (FL) Titus Denham Lamborn Shuster Deutch Marshall Lawson (FL) Schrader Wilson (FL) Trott Dent Lance Simpson Long Smith (NE) Dingell Massie DeSantis Latta Smith (MO) Doggett McCarthy Tsongas Vela DesJarlais Lewis (MN) Smith (NJ) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Donovan McCaul Diaz-Balart LoBiondo Smith (TX) Duncan (SC) McClintock Wagner Donovan Loudermilk Smucker The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Duncan (TN) McCollum Walden Duffy Love Stefanik the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Dunn McEachin Walker Walorski Duncan (SC) Lucas Stewart ing. Emmer McHenry Duncan (TN) Luetkemeyer Stivers Engel McMorris Walters, Mimi Dunn MacArthur Taylor Eshoo Rodgers Walz Emmer Marchant Tenney b 1405 Espaillat McNerney Wasserman Estes (KS) Marino Thompson (PA) Estes (KS) Meadows Schultz Farenthold Marshall Thornberry Mr. RUSH changed his vote from Evans Meehan Waters, Maxine Faso Massie Tiberi Ferguson Meeks Welch Ferguson Mast Tipton ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’ Fleischmann Messer Westerman Fitzpatrick McCarthy Trott So the resolution was agreed to. Fortenberry Moolenaar Williams Fleischmann McCaul Turner Foster Mooney (WV) Wilson (SC) Flores McClintock Upton The result of the vote was announced Frankel (FL) Moulton Womack Fortenberry McHenry Valadao as above recorded. Gabbard Mullin Yarmuth Foxx McKinley Wagner Gallego Murphy (FL) Yoho Franks (AZ) McMorris Walberg A motion to reconsider was laid on Garamendi Nadler Young (IA) Frelinghuysen Rodgers Walden the table. Gianforte Napolitano Zeldin

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:54 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.038 H25OCPT1 H8168 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 NAYS—180 tion (S. Con. Res. 26) authorizing the today on motions to suspend the rules Aguilar Gallagher Norcross use of Emancipation Hall in the Cap- on which a recorded vote or the yeas Amash Garrett O’Halleran itol Visitor Center for the unveiling of and nays are ordered, or votes objected Babin Gomez Pallone the American Prisoners of War/Missing to under clause 6 of rule XX. Barraga´ n Gonzalez (TX) Panetta Barton Gosar Paulsen in Action (POW/MIA) Chair of Honor, The House will resume proceedings Bass Gottheimer Payne and ask for its immediate consider- on postponed questions at a later time. Bera Graves (GA) Perry ation in the House. f Bergman Graves (LA) Peters The Clerk read the title of the con- Beyer Graves (MO) Peterson IRAN BALLISTIC MISSILES AND Biggs Green, Al Pittenger current resolution. INTERNATIONAL SANCTIONS EN- Bishop (MI) Green, Gene Poe (TX) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there FORCEMENT ACT Blum Gutie´rrez Poliquin Blunt Rochester Hartzler objection to the request of the gen- Posey tleman from Mississippi? Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- Bost Hice, Jody B. Price (NC) Boyle, Brendan Higgins (NY) There was no objection. er, I move to suspend the rules and Raskin pass the bill (H.R. 1698) to expand sanc- F. Holding Reed The text of the concurrent resolution Brady (PA) Hoyer Renacci is as follows: tions against Iran with respect to the Brownley (CA) Hudson Rice (NY) ballistic missile program of Iran, and Buck Hurd Rogers (AL) S. CON. RES. 26 Bucshon Jackson Lee for other purposes, as amended. Rohrabacher Burgess Jayapal Resolved by the Senate (the House of Rep- The Clerk read the title of the bill. Rosen Bustos Jeffries resentatives concurring), Rouzer The text of the bill is as follows: Capuano Jenkins (KS) SECTION 1. USE OF EMANCIPATION HALL FOR Roybal-Allard H.R. 1698 Carbajal Jenkins (WV) UNVEILING OF AMERICAN PRIS- Ruiz Ca´ rdenas Johnson (OH) ONERS OF WAR/MISSING IN ACTION Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Rush Carter (GA) Johnson, E. B. (POW/MIA) CHAIR OF HONOR. resentatives of the United States of America in Rutherford Castor (FL) Jones Congress assembled, Ryan (OH) (a) AUTHORIZATION.—Emancipation Hall in Cheney Jordan Sa´ nchez the Capitol Visitor Center is authorized to be SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Clark (MA) Joyce (OH) Sarbanes used for an event on November 8, 2017, to This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Iran Bal- Clarke (NY) Kelly (IL) listic Missiles and International Sanctions Clyburn Khanna Schakowsky unveil the American Prisoners of War/Miss- Coffman Kihuen Schrader ing in Action (POW/MIA) Chair of Honor. Enforcement Act’’. Collins (GA) Kilmer Serrano (b) PREPARATIONS.—Physical preparations SEC. 2. SANCTIONS RELATING TO EFFORTS BY Comer Kind Sewell (AL) for the conduct of the ceremony described in THE GOVERNMENT OF IRAN WITH Sinema Connolly Kinzinger subsection (a) shall be carried out in accord- RESPECT TO BALLISTIC MISSILE-RE- Sires LATED GOODS, SERVICES, AND Correa Knight ance with such conditions as may be pre- Costa LaHood Slaughter TECHNOLOGIES. Costello (PA) Lance Smucker scribed by the Architect of the Capitol. (a) FINDINGS.—Congress finds the fol- Courtney Langevin Soto The concurrent resolution was con- lowing: Stivers Crist Lawrence curred in. (1) United Nations Security Council Reso- Crowley Lee Suozzi Swalwell (CA) A motion to reconsider was laid on lution 2231 (2015)— Cummings Levin (A) calls upon Iran ‘‘not to undertake any Curbelo (FL) Lewis (GA) Thompson (MS) the table. Thompson (PA) activity related to ballistic missiles designed Davis, Rodney Lieu, Ted f DeFazio LoBiondo Tipton to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, Delaney Loebsack Torres COMMUNICATION FROM THE including launches using such ballistic mis- Turner Denham Lofgren CLERK OF THE HOUSE sile technology’’; and DeSantis Lowey Upton (B) requires member states to ‘‘take the Diaz-Balart Luja´ n, Ben Ray Valadao The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- necessary measures to prevent, except as de- Vargas Doyle, Michael Lynch cided otherwise by the UN Security Council F. MacArthur Veasey fore the House the following commu- Duffy Maloney, Sean Vela´ zquez nication from the Clerk of the House of in advance on a case-by-case basis, the sup- Ellison Mast Visclosky Representatives: ply, sale, or transfer of arms or related mate- Esty (CT) Matsui Walberg riel from Iran’’. Faso McGovern Watson Coleman OFFICE OF THE CLERK, (2) The United States maintains bilateral Fitzpatrick McKinley Weber (TX) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, sanctions against Iran for its efforts to man- Flores McSally Wenstrup Washington, DC, October 25, 2017. ufacture, acquire, possess, develop, trans- Foxx Mitchell Wittman Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, port, transfer or use ballistic missiles or bal- Franks (AZ) Moore Woodall The Speaker, House of Representatives, listic missile launch technology, and its ac- Fudge Neal Yoder Washington, DC. Gaetz Nolan Young (AK) quisition of destabilizing types and amounts DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the per- of conventional weapons. ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—2 mission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of (3) According to the 2016 Worldwide Threat Rice (SC) Tonko the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- Assessment, the United States intelligence tives, the Clerk received the following mes- community judges ‘‘that Tehran would NOT VOTING—20 sage from the Secretary of the Senate on Oc- choose ballistic missiles as its preferred Bishop (GA) Larson (CT) Ros-Lehtinen tober 25, 2017, at 11:47 a.m.: method of delivering nuclear weapons, if it Bridenstine Long Ruppersberger That the Senate passed with an amend- builds them. Iran’s ballistic missiles are in- DeLauro Lowenthal Smith (NE) ment H.R. 304. herently capable of delivering [weapons of Farenthold Meng Thompson (CA) That the Senate agreed to without amend- mass destruction], and Tehran already has Frelinghuysen Quigley Webster (FL) ment H. Con. Res. 85. Gohmert Richmond Wilson (FL) the largest inventory of ballistic missiles in Grijalva Rooney, Francis With best wishes, I am, the Middle East. Iran’s progress on space Sincerely, launch vehicles—along with its desire to ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE KAREN L. HAAS. deter the United States and its allies—pro- The SPEAKER pro tempore (during f vides Tehran with the means and motivation the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- to develop longer-range missiles, including ing. HOUR OF MEETING ON TOMORROW ICBMs.’’. Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- (4) Since the passage of United Nations Se- b 1410 er, I ask unanimous consent that when curity Council 2231, Iran has conducted nu- So the Journal was approved. the House adjourns today, it adjourn to merous tests of ballistic missiles designed to The result of the vote was announced meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow. be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, as above recorded. and has acquired destabilizing types of con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ventional weapons. f objection to the request of the gen- (5) Iran has pursued the ability to indige- tleman from California? AUTHORIZING USE OF EMANCI- nously produce ballistic missile and cruise There was no objection. missile goods, services, and technologies. PATION HALL FOR UNVEILING f (b) STATEMENT OF POLICY.—It is the policy OF AMERICAN PRISONERS OF of the United States to prevent Iran from un- WAR/MISSING IN ACTION CHAIR ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER dertaking any activity related to ballistic OF HONOR PRO TEMPORE missiles designed to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, including launches using Mr. HARPER. Mr. Speaker, I ask The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- such ballistic missile technology. unanimous consent to take from the ant to clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair (c) REPORT ON SUPPLY CHAIN OF IRAN’S Speaker’s table the concurrent resolu- will postpone further proceedings BALLISTIC MISSILE PROGRAM.—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:28 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.010 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8169

(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days ‘‘(ii) knowingly exports or transfers, or clause, efforts by the Government of Iran after the date of the enactment of this Act, permits or otherwise facilitates the trans- with respect to ballistic missile-related the President shall submit to the appro- shipment or re-export of, goods, services, goods, services, and technologies described priate congressional committees a report technology, or other items to Iran that main this subsection are efforts by the Govern- that contains the following: terially supports Iran’s efforts to— ment of Iran to manufacture, acquire, pos- (A) An analysis of the foreign supply chain ‘‘(I) acquire or develop ballistic missiles or sess, develop, transport, transfer, test or use and domestic supply chain in Iran that di- ballistic missile launch technologies; or ballistic missiles or associated goods, serv- rectly or indirectly significantly facilitates, ‘‘(II) acquire or develop destabilizing num- ices, or technology by the Government of supports, or otherwise aids the Government bers and types of advanced conventional Iran, including efforts by the Government of of Iran’s ballistic missile program. weapons (as such term is defined in para- Iran to manufacture, acquire, possess, de- (B) A description of the geographic dis- graphs (1) and (2) of section 1608 of the Iran- velop, transport, transfer, purchase— tribution of the foreign and domestic supply Iraq Arms Non-Proliferation Act of 1992).’’. ‘‘(aa) goods, services, or technology listed chain described in subparagraph (A). (e) SANCTIONABLE ACTIVITIES WITH RESPECT on the Missile Technology Control Regime (C) An assessment of the Government of TO BALLISTIC MISSILES.—Paragraph (1) of sec- Equipment and Technology Annex of October Iran’s ability to indigenously manufacture tion 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 8, 2015, and subsequent revisions that have or otherwise produce the goods, services, or (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note), as been acquired outside of the Procurement technology necessary to support its ballistic amended by subsection (e), is further amend- Working Group or not otherwise approved by missile program. ed by adding at the end the following: the United Nations Security Council; or (D) An identification of foreign persons ‘‘(B) ADDITIONAL BALLISTIC MISSILE-RE- ‘‘(bb) goods, services, or technology not de- that have, based on credible information, di- LATED GOODS, SERVICES, AND TECHNOLOGY.— scribed in the matter preceding item (aa) or rectly or indirectly facilitated or supported ‘‘(i) ADDITIONAL AUTHORITY.—The President item (aa) but which nevertheless the Presi- the development of the Government of Iran’s shall impose the sanctions described in para- dent determines would be, if such goods, ballistic missile program, including the for- graph (8), (10), or (12) of section 6(a), as the services, or technology were United States case may be, with respect to— eign and domestic supply chain described in goods, services, or technology, prohibited for ‘‘(I) an agency or instrumentality of the subparagraph (A). export to Iran because of their potential to Government of Iran if the President deter- (E) A determination with respect to each materially support the development of bal- mines that the agency or instrumentality, foreign person identified under subparagraph listic missile systems or ballistic missile on or after the date of the enactment of this (D) as to whether the foreign person meets launch technologies. subparagraph, knowingly seeks to develop, the criteria for designation under— ‘‘(II) EXCEPTION.—Subclause (I) shall not procure, or acquire goods, services, or tech- (i) paragraph (1) of section 5(b) of the Iran apply with respect to efforts by the Govern- nology that materially supports efforts by Sanctions Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 ment of Iran with respect to ballistic mis- the Government of Iran with respect to bal- U.S.C. 1701 note), as amended by this section; sile-related goods, services, and technologies listic missile-related goods, services, and (ii) section 104 of the Countering America’s that have been approved under paragraph 4 Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (Public technologies as described in clause (iii); ‘‘(II) a foreign person or an agency or in- of Annex B of United Nations Security Coun- Law 115–44); or cil Resolution 2231 (2015). (iii) Executive Order 13382 (2005). strumentality of a foreign state if the Presi- ‘‘(iv) PROCUREMENT WORKING GROUP DE- (2) FORM.—The report required under para- dent determines that the person or agency or FINED.—In clause (iii)(I), the term ‘procure- graph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified instrumentality knowingly, on or after the ment working group’ means the Procure- form, but may contain a classified annex. date of the enactment of this paragraph, pro- ment Working Group of the Joint Commis- (d) SANCTIONABLE ACTIVITIES WITH RESPECT vides significant material support to the sion established under Annex IV of the appli- TO WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION.—Para- Government of Iran that supports efforts by graph (1) of section 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions the Government of Iran with respect to bal- cable provisions in Annex A of United Na- Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 listic missile-related goods, services, and tions Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015). note) is amended— technologies as described in clause (iii); and ‘‘(v) ADDITIONAL REPORT ON BALLISTIC MIS- (1) in the heading, by striking ‘‘EXPORTS, ‘‘(III) a foreign person that the President SILE TESTS.— TRANSFERS, AND TRANSSHIPMENTS’’ and in- determines knowingly engages in a signifi- ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—Not later than January serting ‘‘WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION; cant transaction or transactions with, or 31 of each calendar year, the President BALLISTIC MISSILES; CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS’’; provides significant financial services for, a should submit to the Committee on Foreign (2) by striking ‘‘Except as’’ and inserting foreign person or an agency or instrumen- Affairs of the House of Representatives and the following: tality of a foreign state described in sub- the Committee on Foreign Relations of the ‘‘(A) WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION.—Ex- clause (I) or (II) with respect to ballistic mis- Senate a report that specifies the number cept as’’; sile-related goods, services, and technologies and generic class of ballistic missiles and (3) by striking ‘‘(A) on or after the date of as described in clause (iii). space rockets launched by Iran during the the enactment of the Iran Threat Reduction ‘‘(ii) DETERMINATION AND REPORT ON BAL- preceding calendar year and the dates of and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012’’ and in- LISTIC MISSILE TESTS.— each missile launch and the type of missile serting the following: ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 30 days launched on each relevant date. The report ‘‘(i)(I) on or after the date of the enact- after the date on which the President deter- should include definitions used for ment of the Iran Ballistic Missiles and Inter- mines that the Government of Iran has con- classifying the generic classes of missiles. national Sanctions Enforcement Act’’; ducted a test of a ballistic missile that fails ‘‘(II) FORM.—The report required by sub- (4) by striking ‘‘(B) knew’’ and inserting to comply with, violates, or is in defiance of clause (I) shall be submitted in unclassified the following: United Nations Security Council Resolution form, but may contain a classified annex.’’. ‘‘(II) knew’’; 2231 (2015), the President shall submit to the (f) SANCTIONABLE ACTIVITIES WITH RESPECT (5) by striking ‘‘(i) the export’’ and insert- appropriate congressional committees a re- TO CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS.—Paragraph (1) ing the following: port that identifies each senior official of the of section 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions Act of ‘‘(aa) the export’’; Government of Iran that the President deter- 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note), (6) by striking ‘‘would likely’’ and insert- mines is responsible for ordering, control- as amended by subsections (e) and (f), is fur- ing ‘‘may’’; ling, or otherwise directing the missile test. ther amended by adding at the end the fol- (7) by striking ‘‘(ii) the export’’ and insert- ‘‘(II) MATTERS TO BE INCLUDED.—The report lowing: ing the following: required by subclause (I) should include ‘‘(C) CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS.—The Presi- ‘‘(bb) the export’’; available information on the ballistic missile dent shall impose the sanctions described in (8) by striking ‘‘(I) acquire’’ and inserting or the generic class of ballistic missile or paragraph (8) or (12) of section 6(a), as the the following: space rocket that was launched; the trajec- case may be, with respect to a foreign person ‘‘(AA) acquire’’; tory, duration, range, and altitude of the or an agency or instrumentality of a foreign (9) by striking ‘‘; or’’ at the end of subpara- missile flight; the duration, range, and alti- state if the President determines that the graph (A)(ii)(II)(bb)(AA) (as so redesignated); tude of the flight of each stage of the mis- person or agency or instrumentality know- (10) by inserting after subparagraph sile; the location of the launch point and im- ingly, on or after the date of the enactment (A)(ii)(II)(bb)(AA) (as so redesignated) the pact point; the payload; and other technical of this paragraph, imports, exports, or re-ex- following: information that is available. ports to, into, or from Iran, whether directly ‘‘(BB) acquire or develop ballistic missiles ‘‘(III) FORM.—The report required by sub- or indirectly, any significant arms or related or ballistic missile launch technologies; or’’; clause (I) shall be submitted in unclassified materiel prohibited under paragraph (5) or (11) by striking ‘‘(II) acquire’’ and inserting form, but may contain a classified annex. (6) of Annex B of United Nations Security the following: ‘‘(iii) EFFORTS BY THE GOVERNMENT OF IRAN Council Resolution 2231 (2015).’’. ‘‘(CC) acquire’’; WITH RESPECT TO BALLISTIC MISSILE-RELATED (g) EXCEPTION AND DEFINITIONS.—Para- (12) by striking the period at the end of GOODS, SERVICES, AND TECHNOLOGIES DE- graph (1) of section 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions subparagraph (A)(ii)(II)(bb)(CC) (as so redes- SCRIBED.— Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 ignated) and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of sub- note), as amended by subsections (e), (f), and (13) by adding at the end of subparagraph clauses (I), (II), and (III) of clause (i), and ex- (g), is further amended by adding at the end (A) the following: cept as provided in subclause (II) of this the following:

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‘‘(D) EXCEPTION.—The President may not tions 203 and 205 of the International Emer- on which the President receives credible in- impose sanctions under subparagraph (B) or gency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702 formation that destabilizing numbers and (C) with respect to a foreign person or a and 1704) to carry out any amendments made types of conventional weapons have been United States person if the President deter- by this section. sold or transferred to Iran, the President mines that the person has exercised due dili- (k) IMPLEMENTATION PLAN.—Not later than shall notify the appropriate congressional gence in establishing and enforcing official 60 days after the date of the enactment of committees of the sale or transfer. policies, procedures, and controls to ensure this Act, the President shall transmit to the (b) DETERMINATIONS WITH RESPECT TO that the person does not sell, supply, or appropriate congressional committees a plan SANCTIONS.— transfer to or from Iran materials the sale, to implement— (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days supply, or transfer of which would subject a (1) paragraph (1) of section 5(b) of the Iran after the date on which the President noti- person to the imposition of sanctions under Sanctions Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 fies the appropriate congressional commit- subparagraph (B) or (C), as the case may be, U.S.C. 1701 note), as amended by this section; tees of a sale or transfer under subsection or conduct or facilitate a financial trans- and (a), the President shall— action for such a sale, supply, or transfer. (2) section 104 of the Countering America’s (A) determine whether such sale or trans- ‘‘(E) DEFINITIONS.—In subparagraphs (B) Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (Public fer meets the requirements to impose sanc- and (C) of this paragraph: Law 115–44). tions under each provision of law specified in ‘‘(i) AGENCY OR INSTRUMENTALITY.—The (l) EFFECTIVE DATE.— subsection (c); and term ‘agency or instrumentality’ has the (1) IN GENERAL.—The amendments made by (B)(i) if the determination is that the sale meaning given such term in section 1603(b) of this section shall— or transfer is subject to any such sanctions, title 28, United States Code. (A) take effect on the date of the enact- the President shall— ‘‘(ii) FOREIGN STATE.—The term ‘foreign ment of this Act; and (I) make a determination whether to im- (B) apply with respect to an activity de- state’ has the meaning given such term in pose or waive such sanctions with respect to scribed in subsection (b) of section 5 of the section 1603(a) of title 28, United States such sale or transfer; and Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, as amended by Code. (II) submit that determination to the ap- this section, that is commenced on or after ‘‘(iii) GOVERNMENT OF IRAN.—The term propriate congressional committees; or such date of enactment. ‘Government of Iran’ has the meaning given (ii) if the determination is that the sale or (2) APPLICABILITY TO ONGOING ACTIVITIES such term in section 560.304 of title 31, Code transfer is not subject to any such sanctions, RELATING TO CERTAIN ACTIVITIES.—A person of Federal Regulations, as such section was the President shall submit to the appro- that, before the date of the enactment of this in effect on January 1, 2016. priate congressional committees a detailed Act, commenced an activity described in sec- ‘‘(iv) SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTION OR TRANS- report on the determination and the specific tion 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, as ACTIONS; SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL SERVICES.— reasons for the determination. The terms ‘significant transaction or trans- in effect on the day before such date of enactment, and continues the activity on or (2) FORM.—The determination in paragraph actions’ and ‘significant financial services’ (1) shall be provided in an unclassified form, shall be determined in accordance with sec- after such date of enactment, shall be subject to the provisions of the Iran Sanctions and may contain a classified annex. tion 561.404 of title 31, Code of Federal Regu- (c) PROVISIONS OF LAW SPECIFIED.—The Act of 1996, as amended by this Act. lations, as such section 561.404 was in effect provisions of law specified in this subsection on January 1, 2016.’’. SEC. 3. REPORT ON SANCTIONABLE ACTIVITIES. are the following: (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days (h) SANCTIONS DESCRIBED.—Section 6(a) of (1) Section 5(b)(1) of the Iran Sanctions Act after the date of the enactment of this Act, the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 (Public Law of 1996 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note), as amended by and every 180 days thereafter for a period not 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note) is amended— section 2 of this Act. to exceed three years, the President shall (1) by striking paragraph (10) and inserting (2) The Iran-Iraq Arms Non-Proliferation the following: submit to the appropriate congressional committees a report that contains the fol- Act of 1992 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note). ‘‘(10) INADMISSIBILITY TO UNITED STATES.— lowing information: (3) The Iran, North Korea, and Syria Non- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The President may di- (1) Any credible information regarding proliferation Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 note). rect the Secretary of State to deny a visa to, EFINITION.—In this section, the term Iran’s attempts to develop, procure, or ac- (d) D and the Secretary of Homeland Security to ‘‘destabilizing numbers and types of ad- exclude from the United States and, if the quire goods, services, or technology with respect to which sanctions may be imposed vanced conventional weapons’’— individual has been issued a visa or other pursuant to subparagraphs (B) and (C) of sec- (1) has the meaning given the terms ‘‘ad- documentation, revoke, in accordance with tion 5(b)(1) of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 vanced conventional weapons’’ and ‘‘cruise the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note), as missile’’ as defined in paragraphs (1) and (2), U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) the visa or other docu- added by section 2 of this Act. respectively, of section 1608 of the Iran-Iraq mentation of any alien that— (2) Any credible information regarding Arms Non-Proliferation Act of 1992 (50 U.S.C. ‘‘(i) is designated pursuant to subpara- Iran’s acquisition or attempted acquisition 1701 note); and graph (B) or (C) of section 5(b)(1); or of significant arms and related material in (2) includes the S–300 and S–400 missile de- ‘‘(ii) the President determines is a cor- violation of paragraph 5 of Annex B of fense systems and air superiority fighters. porate officer or principal of, or a share- United Nations Security Council Resolution SEC. 5. DETERMINATION ON USE BY THE GOV- holder with a controlling interest in, a sanc- 2231 (2015). ERNMENT OF IRAN OF COMMERCIAL tioned person. (3) Any credible information regarding PASSENGER AIRCRAFT AND RE- ‘‘(B) EXCEPTION TO COMPLY WITH UNITED NA- LATED SERVICES FOR ILLICIT MILI- Iran’s export or attempted export of signifi- TARY OR OTHER ACTIVITIES. TIONS HEADQUARTERS AGREEMENT.—Sanctions cant arms and related material in violation under subparagraph (A) shall not apply to an (a) DETERMINATION.—Not later than 180 of paragraph 6 of Annex B of United Nations days after the date of the enactment of this alien if admitting the alien into the United Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015). States is necessary to permit the United Act, and every 180 days thereafter for three (4) Any approval granted by the United Na- years, the President shall submit to the ap- States to comply with the Agreement re- tions Security Council for the export of sig- garding the Headquarters of the United Na- propriate congressional committees a deter- nificant arms and related material identified mination on use by the Government of Iran tions, signed at Lake Success June 26, 1947, under paragraphs 5 or 6 of Annex B of United and entered into force November 21, 1947, be- of commercial passenger aircraft and related Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 services for illicit military or other activi- tween the United Nations and the United (2015). States, or other applicable international ob- ties on or after the date of the enactment of (5) Any credible information regarding vio- this Act. ligations.’’; lations of travel restrictions described in (2) by redesignating paragraph (12) as para- (b) ELEMENTS OF DETERMINATION.—The de- paragraph 6 of Annex B of United Nations termination required under subsection (a) graph (13); and Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015). (3) by inserting after paragraph (11) the fol- shall include a description of the extent to (6) Any approval granted by the United Na- which— lowing: tions Security Council for exemptions to the ‘‘(12) EXPORT SANCTION.—In the case of an (1) commercial passenger aircraft in Iran travel restrictions described in paragraph 6 are being used to transport— agency or instrumentality of a foreign state, of Annex B of United Nations Security Coun- no item on the United States Munitions List (A) arms or related materiel, including de- cil Resolution 2231 (2015). fense articles, defense services, or technical or Commerce Munitions List may be ex- (b) FORM.—The report required by sub- ported to that foreign state for a period of data that are controlled on the United section (a) shall be submitted in unclassified States Munitions List established under sec- two years.’’. form, but may contain a classified annex. (i) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—The sanctions tion 38 of the Arms Export Control Act (22 SEC. 4. DETERMINATIONS WITH RESPECT TO THE that are required to be imposed under this U.S.C. 2778); IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS FOR (B) any item that is, or would be, if located section and the amendments made by this THE SALE OR TRANSFER OF DESTA- section are in addition to other similar or re- BILIZING TYPES AND AMOUNTS OF in the United States, controlled by Export lated sanctions that are required to be im- CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS TO THE Control Classification Number 600 series list- posed under any other provision of law. GOVERNMENT OF IRAN. ed on the Commerce Control List maintained (j) IMPLEMENTATION.—The President may (a) NOTIFICATION OF SALES AND TRANS- under Supplement No. 1 to part 774 of the Ex- exercise all authorities provided under sec- FERS.—Not later than 90 days after the date port Administration Regulations;

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(C) items used to facilitate the develop- (2) CREDIBLE INFORMATION.—The term (1) United Nations Security Council Reso- ment or production of a chemical or biologi- ‘‘credible information’’ has the meaning lution 2231 (2015)— cal weapon or other weapon of mass destruc- given such term in section 14 of the Iran (A) calls upon Iran ‘‘not to undertake any tion and their means of delivery, including Sanctions Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 activity related to ballistic missiles designed ballistic missiles and cruise missiles; or U.S.C. 1701 note). to be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, (D) any foreign person that facilitates the (3) GOVERNMENT OF IRAN.—The term ‘‘Gov- including launches using such ballistic mis- transfer of any of the articles described in ernment of Iran’’ has the meaning given such sile technology’’; and subparagraphs (A) through (C); term in section 560.304 of title 31, Code of (B) requires member states to ‘‘take the (2) commercial passenger aircraft licensed Federal Regulations, as such section was in necessary measures to prevent, except as de- by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of effect on January 1, 2016. cided otherwise by the UN Security Council the Department of the Treasury are being The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- in advance on a case-by-case basis, the sup- used for activities described in paragraph (1); ant to the rule, the gentleman from ply, sale, or transfer of arms or related mate- and riel from Iran’’. California (Mr. ROYCE) and the gen- (3) foreign governments and persons have (2) The United States maintains bilateral facilitated the activities described in para- tleman from New York (Mr. ENGEL) sanctions against Iran for its efforts to man- graph (1), including allowing the use of air- each will control 20 minutes. ufacture, acquire, possess, develop, trans- ports, services, or other resources. The Chair recognizes the gentleman port, transfer or use ballistic missiles or bal- (c) FORM OF DETERMINATION.—The deter- from California. listic missile launch technology, and its acquisition of destabilizing types and amounts mination required under subsection (a) shall b 1415 be submitted in unclassified form but may of conventional weapons. include a classified annex. GENERAL LEAVE (3) According to the 2016 Worldwide Threat (d) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- Assessment, the United States intelligence (1) COMMERCIAL PASSENGER AIRCRAFT.—The er, I ask unanimous consent that all community judges ‘‘that Tehran would term ‘‘commercial passenger aircraft’’ in- Members may have 5 legislative days choose ballistic missiles as its preferred cludes— method of delivering nuclear weapons, if it to revise and extend their remarks and builds them. Iran’s ballistic missiles are in- (A) an aircraft of United States origin and to include any extraneous material in that is classified under Export Control Clas- herently capable of delivering [weapons of sification Number (ECCN) 9A99l on the Com- the RECORD. mass destruction], and Tehran already has merce Control List maintained under Sup- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there the largest inventory of ballistic missiles in plement No. 1 to part 774 of the Export Ad- objection to the request of the gen- the Middle East. Iran’s progress on space ministration Regulations; or tleman from California? launch vehicles—along with its desire to (B) an aircraft not of United States origin There was no objection. deter the United States and its allies—proof which United States-controlled content Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- vides Tehran with the means and motivation constitutes 10 percent or more of the total er, due to the technical issues in the to develop longer-range missiles, including value of the aircraft and that is— Chamber, I ask to withdraw the mo- ICBMs.’’. (4) Since the passage of United Nations Se- (i) classified under Export Control Classi- tion. fication Number (ECCN) 9A99l on the Com- curity Council 2231, Iran has conducted nu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without merous tests of ballistic missiles designed to merce Control List maintained under Sup- objection, the motion is withdrawn. plement No. 1 to part 774 of the Export Ad- be capable of delivering nuclear weapons, ministration Regulations; and f and has acquired destabilizing types of conventional weapons. (ii) is registered in a jurisdiction other RECESS than the United States. (5) Iran has pursued the ability to indige- (2) EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS.— The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. nously produce ballistic missile and cruise The term ‘‘Export Administration Regula- PALMER). Pursuant to clause 12(a) of missile goods, services, and technologies. tions’’ means subchapter C of chapter VII of rule I, the Chair declares the House in (b) STATEMENT OF POLICY.—It is the policy of the United States to prevent Iran from un- title 15, Code of Federal Regulations. recess for a period of less than 15 min- dertaking any activity related to ballistic (3) RELATED SERVICES.—The term ‘‘related utes. missiles designed to be capable of delivering services’’, with respect to a commercial pas- Accordingly (at 2 o’clock and 22 min- nuclear weapons, including launches using senger aircraft, includes— utes p.m.), the House stood in recess. such ballistic missile technology. (A) the export, re-export, sale, lease, or f (c) REPORT ON SUPPLY CHAIN OF IRAN’S transfer to Iran of spare parts and compo- BALLISTIC MISSILE PROGRAM.— nents; and b 1431 (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days (B) warranty, maintenance, and repair AFTER RECESS after the date of the enactment of this Act, services. the President shall submit to the appro- SEC. 6. REGULATORY AUTHORITY. The recess having expired, the House priate congressional committees a report (a) IN GENERAL.—The President shall, not was called to order by the Speaker pro that contains the following: later than 120 days after the date of the en- tempore (Mr. PALMER) at 2 o’clock and (A) An analysis of the foreign supply chain actment of this Act, promulgate regulations 31 minutes p.m. and domestic supply chain in Iran that di- as necessary for the implementation of this f rectly or indirectly significantly facilitates, Act and the amendments made by this Act. supports, or otherwise aids the Government (b) NOTIFICATION TO CONGRESS.—Not less IRAN BALLISTIC MISSILES AND of Iran’s ballistic missile program. than 10 days before the promulgation of reg- INTERNATIONAL SANCTIONS EN- (B) A description of the geographic dis- ulations under subsection (a), the President FORCEMENT ACT tribution of the foreign and domestic supply shall notify the appropriate congressional Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- chain described in subparagraph (A). committees of the proposed regulations and (C) An assessment of the Government of the provisions of this Act and the amend- er, I move to suspend the rules and Iran’s ability to indigenously manufacture ments made by this Act that the regulations pass the bill (H.R. 1698) to expand sanc- or otherwise produce the goods, services, or are implementing. tions against Iran with respect to the technology necessary to support its ballistic SEC. 7. DEFINITIONS. ballistic missile program of Iran, and missile program. In this Act: for other purposes, as amended. (D) An identification of foreign persons (1) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- The Clerk read the title of the bill. that have, based on credible information, di- TEES.—The term ‘‘appropriate congressional The text of the bill is as follows: rectly or indirectly facilitated or supported committees’’ means— H.R. 1698 the development of the Government of Iran’s (A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the ballistic missile program, including the for- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Committee on Ways and Means, the Com- resentatives of the United States of America in eign and domestic supply chain described in mittee on Financial Services, the Committee Congress assembled, subparagraph (A). on Appropriations, the Committee on Over- (E) A determination with respect to each SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. sight and Government Reform, and the Per- foreign person identified under subparagraph This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Iran Bal- manent Select Committee on Intelligence of (D) as to whether the foreign person meets listic Missiles and International Sanctions the House of Representatives; and the criteria for designation under— Enforcement Act’’. (B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, (i) paragraph (1) of section 5(b) of the Iran SEC. 2. SANCTIONS RELATING TO EFFORTS BY the Committee on Finance, the Committee THE GOVERNMENT OF IRAN WITH Sanctions Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, the RESPECT TO BALLISTIC MISSILE-RE- U.S.C. 1701 note), as amended by this section; Committee on Appropriations, the Com- LATED GOODS, SERVICES, AND (ii) section 104 of the Countering America’s mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- TECHNOLOGIES. Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (Public mental Affairs, and the Select Committee on (a) FINDINGS.—Congress finds the fol- Law 115–44); or Intelligence of the Senate. lowing: (iii) Executive Order 13382 (2005).

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(2) FORM.—The report required under para- dent determines that the person or agency or ‘‘(iv) PROCUREMENT WORKING GROUP DE- graph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified instrumentality knowingly, on or after the FINED.—In clause (iii)(I), the term ‘procure- form, but may contain a classified annex. date of the enactment of this paragraph, pro- ment working group’ means the Procure- (d) SANCTIONABLE ACTIVITIES WITH RESPECT vides significant material support to the ment Working Group of the Joint Commis- TO WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION.—Para- Government of Iran that supports efforts by sion established under Annex IV of the appli- graph (1) of section 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions the Government of Iran with respect to bal- cable provisions in Annex A of United Na- Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 listic missile-related goods, services, and tions Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015). note) is amended— technologies as described in clause (iii); and ‘‘(v) ADDITIONAL REPORT ON BALLISTIC MIS- (1) in the heading, by striking ‘‘EXPORTS, ‘‘(III) a foreign person that the President SILE TESTS.— TRANSFERS AND TRANSSHIPMENTS , ’’ and in- determines knowingly engages in a signifi- ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—Not later than January serting ‘‘WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION; cant transaction or transactions with, or 31 of each calendar year, the President BALLISTIC MISSILES; CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS’’; provides significant financial services for, a should submit to the Committee on Foreign (2) by striking ‘‘Except as’’ and inserting foreign person or an agency or instrumen- Affairs of the House of Representatives and the following: tality of a foreign state described in sub- the Committee on Foreign Relations of the ‘‘(A) WEAPONS OF MASS DESTRUCTION.—Ex- clause (I) or (II) with respect to ballistic mis- Senate a report that specifies the number cept as’’; sile-related goods, services, and technologies and generic class of ballistic missiles and (3) by striking ‘‘(A) on or after the date of as described in clause (iii). space rockets launched by Iran during the the enactment of the Iran Threat Reduction and Syria Human Rights Act of 2012’’ and in- ‘‘(ii) DETERMINATION AND REPORT ON BAL- preceding calendar year and the dates of serting the following: LISTIC MISSILE TESTS.— each missile launch and the type of missile ‘‘(i)(I) on or after the date of the enact- ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 30 days launched on each relevant date. The report ment of the Iran Ballistic Missiles and Inter- after the date on which the President deter- should include definitions used for national Sanctions Enforcement Act’’; mines that the Government of Iran has con- classifying the generic classes of missiles. (4) by striking ‘‘(B) knew’’ and inserting ducted a test of a ballistic missile that fails ‘‘(II) FORM.—The report required by sub- the following: to comply with, violates, or is in defiance of clause (I) shall be submitted in unclassified ‘‘(II) knew’’; United Nations Security Council Resolution form, but may contain a classified annex.’’. 2231 (2015), the President shall submit to the (5) by striking ‘‘(i) the export’’ and insert- (f) SANCTIONABLE ACTIVITIES WITH RESPECT appropriate congressional committees a re- ing the following: TO CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS.—Paragraph (1) port that identifies each senior official of the ‘‘(aa) the export’’; of section 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions Act of (6) by striking ‘‘would likely’’ and insert- Government of Iran that the President deter- 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note), ing ‘‘may’’; mines is responsible for ordering, control- (7) by striking ‘‘(ii) the export’’ and insert- ling, or otherwise directing the missile test. as amended by subsections (e) and (f), is fur- ing the following: ‘‘(II) MATTERS TO BE INCLUDED.—The report ther amended by adding at the end the fol- ‘‘(bb) the export’’; required by subclause (I) should include lowing: (8) by striking ‘‘(I) acquire’’ and inserting available information on the ballistic missile ‘‘(C) CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS.—The Presi- the following: or the generic class of ballistic missile or dent shall impose the sanctions described in ‘‘(AA) acquire’’; space rocket that was launched; the trajec- paragraph (8) or (12) of section 6(a), as the (9) by striking ‘‘; or’’ at the end of subpara- tory, duration, range, and altitude of the case may be, with respect to a foreign person graph (A)(ii)(II)(bb)(AA) (as so redesignated); missile flight; the duration, range, and alti- or an agency or instrumentality of a foreign (10) by inserting after subparagraph tude of the flight of each stage of the mis- state if the President determines that the (A)(ii)(II)(bb)(AA) (as so redesignated) the sile; the location of the launch point and im- person or agency or instrumentality know- following: pact point; the payload; and other technical ingly, on or after the date of the enactment ‘‘(BB) acquire or develop ballistic missiles information that is available. of this paragraph, imports, exports, or re-ex- or ballistic missile launch technologies; or’’; ‘‘(III) FORM.—The report required by sub- ports to, into, or from Iran, whether directly (11) by striking ‘‘(II) acquire’’ and inserting clause (I) shall be submitted in unclassified or indirectly, any significant arms or related the following: form, but may contain a classified annex. materiel prohibited under paragraph (5) or ‘‘(CC) acquire’’; ‘‘(iii) EFFORTS BY THE GOVERNMENT OF IRAN (6) of Annex B of United Nations Security (12) by striking the period at the end of WITH RESPECT TO BALLISTIC MISSILE-RELATED Council Resolution 2231 (2015).’’. GOODS, SERVICES, AND TECHNOLOGIES DE- subparagraph (A)(ii)(II)(bb)(CC) (as so redes- (g) EXCEPTION AND DEFINITIONS.—Para- SCRIBED.— ignated) and inserting ‘‘; or’’; and graph (1) of section 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions (13) by adding at the end of subparagraph ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—For purposes of sub- Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 (A) the following: clauses (I), (II), and (III) of clause (i), and ex- ‘‘(ii) knowingly exports or transfers, or cept as provided in subclause (II) of this note), as amended by subsections (e), (f), and permits or otherwise facilitates the trans- clause, efforts by the Government of Iran (g), is further amended by adding at the end shipment or re-export of, goods, services, with respect to ballistic missile-related the following: technology, or other items to Iran that ma- goods, services, and technologies described ‘‘(D) EXCEPTION.—The President may not terially supports Iran’s efforts to— in this subsection are efforts by the Govern- impose sanctions under subparagraph (B) or ‘‘(I) acquire or develop ballistic missiles or ment of Iran to manufacture, acquire, pos- (C) with respect to a foreign person or a ballistic missile launch technologies; or sess, develop, transport, transfer, test or use United States person if the President deter- ‘‘(II) acquire or develop destabilizing num- ballistic missiles or associated goods, serv- mines that the person has exercised due dili- bers and types of advanced conventional ices, or technology by the Government of gence in establishing and enforcing official weapons (as such term is defined in para- Iran, including efforts by the Government of policies, procedures, and controls to ensure graphs (1) and (2) of section 1608 of the Iran- Iran to manufacture, acquire, possess, de- that the person does not sell, supply, or Iraq Arms Non-Proliferation Act of 1992).’’. velop, transport, transfer, purchase— transfer to or from Iran materials the sale, (e) SANCTIONABLE ACTIVITIES WITH RESPECT ‘‘(aa) goods, services, or technology listed supply, or transfer of which would subject a TO BALLISTIC MISSILES.—Paragraph (1) of sec- on the Missile Technology Control Regime person to the imposition of sanctions under tion 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 Equipment and Technology Annex of October subparagraph (B) or (C), as the case may be, (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note), as 8, 2015, and subsequent revisions that have or conduct or facilitate a financial trans- amended by subsection (e), is further amend- been acquired outside of the Procurement action for such a sale, supply, or transfer. ed by adding at the end the following: Working Group or not otherwise approved by ‘‘(E) DEFINITIONS.—In subparagraphs (B) ‘‘(B) ADDITIONAL BALLISTIC MISSILE-RE- the United Nations Security Council; or and (C) of this paragraph: LATED GOODS, SERVICES, AND TECHNOLOGY.— ‘‘(bb) goods, services, or technology not de- ‘‘(i) AGENCY OR INSTRUMENTALITY.—The ‘‘(i) ADDITIONAL AUTHORITY.—The President scribed in the matter preceding item (aa) or term ‘agency or instrumentality’ has the shall impose the sanctions described in para- item (aa) but which nevertheless the Presi- meaning given such term in section 1603(b) of graph (8), (10), or (12) of section 6(a), as the dent determines would be, if such goods, title 28, United States Code. case may be, with respect to— services, or technology were United States ‘‘(ii) FOREIGN STATE.—The term ‘foreign ‘‘(I) an agency or instrumentality of the goods, services, or technology, prohibited for state’ has the meaning given such term in Government of Iran if the President deter- export to Iran because of their potential to section 1603(a) of title 28, United States mines that the agency or instrumentality, materially support the development of bal- Code. on or after the date of the enactment of this listic missile systems or ballistic missile ‘‘(iii) GOVERNMENT OF IRAN.—The term subparagraph, knowingly seeks to develop, launch technologies. ‘Government of Iran’ has the meaning given procure, or acquire goods, services, or tech- ‘‘(II) EXCEPTION.—Subclause (I) shall not such term in section 560.304 of title 31, Code nology that materially supports efforts by apply with respect to efforts by the Govern- of Federal Regulations, as such section was the Government of Iran with respect to bal- ment of Iran with respect to ballistic mis- in effect on January 1, 2016. listic missile-related goods, services, and sile-related goods, services, and technologies ‘‘(iv) SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTION OR TRANS- technologies as described in clause (iii); that have been approved under paragraph 4 ACTIONS; SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL SERVICES.— ‘‘(II) a foreign person or an agency or in- of Annex B of United Nations Security Coun- The terms ‘significant transaction or trans- strumentality of a foreign state if the Presi- cil Resolution 2231 (2015). actions’ and ‘significant financial services’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:59 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.014 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8173

shall be determined in accordance with sec- after such date of enactment, shall be sub- (2) FORM.—The determination in paragraph tion 561.404 of title 31, Code of Federal Regu- ject to the provisions of the Iran Sanctions (1) shall be provided in an unclassified form, lations, as such section 561.404 was in effect Act of 1996, as amended by this Act. and may contain a classified annex. on January 1, 2016.’’. SEC. 3. REPORT ON SANCTIONABLE ACTIVITIES. (c) PROVISIONS OF LAW SPECIFIED.—The (h) SANCTIONS DESCRIBED.—Section 6(a) of provisions of law specified in this subsection (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 (Public Law are the following: after the date of the enactment of this Act, 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note) is amended— (1) Section 5(b)(1) of the Iran Sanctions Act and every 180 days thereafter for a period not (1) by striking paragraph (10) and inserting of 1996 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note), as amended by to exceed three years, the President shall the following: section 2 of this Act. submit to the appropriate congressional ‘‘(10) INADMISSIBILITY TO UNITED STATES.— (2) The Iran-Iraq Arms Non-Proliferation committees a report that contains the fol- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—The President may di- Act of 1992 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note). lowing information: rect the Secretary of State to deny a visa to, (3) The Iran, North Korea, and Syria Non- (1) Any credible information regarding and the Secretary of Homeland Security to proliferation Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 note). Iran’s attempts to develop, procure, or ac- exclude from the United States and, if the (d) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term quire goods, services, or technology with re- individual has been issued a visa or other ‘‘destabilizing numbers and types of ad- spect to which sanctions may be imposed documentation, revoke, in accordance with vanced conventional weapons’’— pursuant to subparagraphs (B) and (C) of sec- the Immigration and Nationality Act (8 (1) has the meaning given the terms ‘‘ad- tion 5(b)(1) of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.) the visa or other docu- vanced conventional weapons’’ and ‘‘cruise (Public Law 104–172; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note), as mentation of any alien that— missile’’ as defined in paragraphs (1) and (2), added by section 2 of this Act. ‘‘(i) is designated pursuant to subpara- respectively, of section 1608 of the Iran-Iraq (2) Any credible information regarding graph (B) or (C) of section 5(b)(1); or Arms Non-Proliferation Act of 1992 (50 U.S.C. Iran’s acquisition or attempted acquisition ‘‘(ii) the President determines is a cor- 1701 note); and of significant arms and related material in porate officer or principal of, or a share- (2) includes the S–300 and S–400 missile de- violation of paragraph 5 of Annex B of holder with a controlling interest in, a sanc- fense systems and air superiority fighters. United Nations Security Council Resolution tioned person. 2231 (2015). SEC. 5. DETERMINATION ON USE BY THE GOV- ‘‘(B) EXCEPTION TO COMPLY WITH UNITED NA- ERNMENT OF IRAN OF COMMERCIAL (3) Any credible information regarding TIONS HEADQUARTERS AGREEMENT.—Sanctions PASSENGER AIRCRAFT AND RE- Iran’s export or attempted export of signifi- under subparagraph (A) shall not apply to an LATED SERVICES FOR ILLICIT MILI- cant arms and related material in violation alien if admitting the alien into the United TARY OR OTHER ACTIVITIES. of paragraph 6 of Annex B of United Nations States is necessary to permit the United (a) DETERMINATION.—Not later than 180 Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015). States to comply with the Agreement re- days after the date of the enactment of this (4) Any approval granted by the United Na- garding the Headquarters of the United Na- Act, and every 180 days thereafter for three tions Security Council for the export of sig- tions, signed at Lake Success June 26, 1947, years, the President shall submit to the ap- nificant arms and related material identified and entered into force November 21, 1947, be- propriate congressional committees a deter- under paragraphs 5 or 6 of Annex B of United tween the United Nations and the United mination on use by the Government of Iran Nations Security Council Resolution 2231 States, or other applicable international ob- of commercial passenger aircraft and related (2015). ligations.’’; services for illicit military or other activi- (5) Any credible information regarding vio- (2) by redesignating paragraph (12) as para- ties on or after the date of the enactment of lations of travel restrictions described in graph (13); and this Act. paragraph 6 of Annex B of United Nations (b) ELEMENTS OF DETERMINATION.—The de- (3) by inserting after paragraph (11) the fol- Security Council Resolution 2231 (2015). termination required under subsection (a) lowing: (6) Any approval granted by the United Na- shall include a description of the extent to ‘‘(12) EXPORT SANCTION.—In the case of an tions Security Council for exemptions to the which— agency or instrumentality of a foreign state, travel restrictions described in paragraph 6 (1) commercial passenger aircraft in Iran no item on the United States Munitions List of Annex B of United Nations Security Coun- are being used to transport— or Commerce Munitions List may be ex- cil Resolution 2231 (2015). (A) arms or related materiel, including de- ported to that foreign state for a period of fense articles, defense services, or technical two years.’’. (b) FORM.—The report required by sub- data that are controlled on the United (i) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—The sanctions section (a) shall be submitted in unclassified that are required to be imposed under this form, but may contain a classified annex. States Munitions List established under sec- section and the amendments made by this SEC. 4. DETERMINATIONS WITH RESPECT TO THE tion 38 of the Arms Export Control Act (22 section are in addition to other similar or re- IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS FOR U.S.C. 2778); lated sanctions that are required to be im- THE SALE OR TRANSFER OF DESTA- (B) any item that is, or would be, if located posed under any other provision of law. BILIZING TYPES AND AMOUNTS OF in the United States, controlled by Export CONVENTIONAL WEAPONS TO THE (j) IMPLEMENTATION.—The President may Control Classification Number 600 series list- GOVERNMENT OF IRAN. exercise all authorities provided under sec- ed on the Commerce Control List maintained tions 203 and 205 of the International Emer- (a) NOTIFICATION OF SALES AND TRANS- under Supplement No. 1 to part 774 of the Ex- gency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702 FERS.—Not later than 90 days after the date port Administration Regulations; and 1704) to carry out any amendments made on which the President receives credible in- (C) items used to facilitate the develop- by this section. formation that destabilizing numbers and ment or production of a chemical or biologi- (k) IMPLEMENTATION PLAN.—Not later than types of conventional weapons have been cal weapon or other weapon of mass destruc- 60 days after the date of the enactment of sold or transferred to Iran, the President tion and their means of delivery, including this Act, the President shall transmit to the shall notify the appropriate congressional ballistic missiles and cruise missiles; or appropriate congressional committees a plan committees of the sale or transfer. (D) any foreign person that facilitates the to implement— (b) DETERMINATIONS WITH RESPECT TO transfer of any of the articles described in (1) paragraph (1) of section 5(b) of the Iran SANCTIONS.— subparagraphs (A) through (C); Sanctions Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days (2) commercial passenger aircraft licensed U.S.C. 1701 note), as amended by this section; after the date on which the President noti- by the Office of Foreign Assets Control of and fies the appropriate congressional commit- the Department of the Treasury are being (2) section 104 of the Countering America’s tees of a sale or transfer under subsection used for activities described in paragraph (1); Adversaries Through Sanctions Act (Public (a), the President shall— and Law 115–44). (A) determine whether such sale or trans- (3) foreign governments and persons have (l) EFFECTIVE DATE.— fer meets the requirements to impose sanc- facilitated the activities described in para- (1) IN GENERAL.—The amendments made by tions under each provision of law specified in graph (1), including allowing the use of air- this section shall— subsection (c); and ports, services, or other resources. (A) take effect on the date of the enact- (B)(i) if the determination is that the sale (c) FORM OF DETERMINATION.—The deter- ment of this Act; and or transfer is subject to any such sanctions, mination required under subsection (a) shall (B) apply with respect to an activity de- the President shall— be submitted in unclassified form but may scribed in subsection (b) of section 5 of the (I) make a determination whether to im- include a classified annex. Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, as amended by pose or waive such sanctions with respect to (d) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: this section, that is commenced on or after such sale or transfer; and (1) COMMERCIAL PASSENGER AIRCRAFT.—The such date of enactment. (II) submit that determination to the ap- term ‘‘commercial passenger aircraft’’ in- (2) APPLICABILITY TO ONGOING ACTIVITIES propriate congressional committees; or cludes— RELATING TO CERTAIN ACTIVITIES.—A person (ii) if the determination is that the sale or (A) an aircraft of United States origin and that, before the date of the enactment of this transfer is not subject to any such sanctions, that is classified under Export Control Clas- Act, commenced an activity described in sec- the President shall submit to the appro- sification Number (ECCN) 9A99l on the Com- tion 5(b) of the Iran Sanctions Act of 1996, as priate congressional committees a detailed merce Control List maintained under Sup- in effect on the day before such date of en- report on the determination and the specific plement No. 1 to part 774 of the Export Ad- actment, and continues the activity on or reasons for the determination. ministration Regulations; or

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:59 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.014 H25OCPT1 H8174 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 (B) an aircraft not of United States origin Mr. Speaker, today the House of Rep- ity is ‘‘not only necessary, but justi- of which United States-controlled content resentatives here considers four meas- fied.’’ constitutes 10 percent or more of the total ures that we have worked on in a bipar- That is one of the architects of the value of the aircraft and that is— tisan way, four measures that are con- agreement itself. (i) classified under Export Control Classi- That is what this bill does. It re- fication Number (ECCN) 9A99l on the Com- sistent with the President’s call for an merce Control List maintained under Sup- approach to Iran that addresses the full quires a comprehensive investigation plement No. 1 to part 774 of the Export Ad- range of threats that it possesses to to identify and designate the compa- ministration Regulations; and not just the United States, but to our nies, the banks, the individuals inside (ii) is registered in a jurisdiction other allies, to our partners as well. and outside of Iran which supply the than the United States. This legislation, which I have au- regime’s missiles and supply their con- (2) EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULATIONS.— thored along with my colleague, ELIOT ventional weapons programs, and it The term ‘‘Export Administration Regula- sanctions them. In doing so, it shuts tions’’ means subchapter C of chapter VII of ENGEL, I am proud to say we now have title 15, Code of Federal Regulations. 323 cosponsors to this bill. This is the out Iranian and foreign companies in- (3) RELATED SERVICES.—The term ‘‘related bipartisan Iran Ballistic Missiles and volved in Iran’s missile program. It services’’, with respect to a commercial pas- International Sanctions Enforcement also shuts out the banks that back senger aircraft, includes— Act. them. It shuts them out from the glob- (A) the export, re-export, sale, lease, or What this does is respond to the real financial system. transfer to Iran of spare parts and compo- gime’s continued pursuit of interconti- This bill expands Iran sanctions that nents; and nental ballistic missiles and to dan- we passed and were signed into law in (B) warranty, maintenance, and repair services. gerous conventional weapons. August with H.R. 3364, the Countering SEC. 6. REGULATORY AUTHORITY. Mr. Speaker, I will begin by thanking America’s Adversaries Through Sanc- (a) IN GENERAL.—The President shall, not my good friend, Mr. ENGEL, for his hard tions Act. later than 120 days after the date of the en- work, his collaboration, along with Mr. For example, while the bill that actment of this Act, promulgate regulations STENY HOYER and Mr. MCCARTHY, in passed over the summer specifically as necessary for the implementation of this bringing this important legislation to sanctions those who materially con- Act and the amendments made by this Act. this floor. tribute to Iran’s ballistic missile pro- (b) NOTIFICATION TO CONGRESS.—Not less gram, the bill before us today goes a than 10 days before the promulgation of reg- Iran has already developed an arsenal ulations under subsection (a), the President of short- and medium-range ballistic step further by sanctioning those that shall notify the appropriate congressional missiles, and those missiles put our al- are in the business of financing Iran’s committees of the proposed regulations and lies, our partners, as well as U.S. forces efforts. the provisions of this Act and the amend- in range. The conventional weapons prohibi- ments made by this Act that the regulations Now Iran is working on interconti- tion in the bill before us are also are implementing. nental ballistic missiles. I think to get stronger, and let me explain why. The SEC. 7. DEFINITIONS. August legislation referenced the In this Act: the point across, I would just quote our United Nations Register of Conven- (1) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- former Secretary of Defense, Ash Car- TEES.—The term ‘‘appropriate congressional ter, because he testified before Con- tional Arms, which excludes such items committees’’ means— gress on this issue. What he conveyed as Russia’s recent sale of the S–300 air (A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the to us is: ‘‘ . . . the I in ICBM stands for defense system to Iran. The bill before Committee on Ways and Means, the Com- intercontinental, which means having us ensures that there is no such carve- mittee on Financial Services, the Committee the capability from flying from Iran to out. on Appropriations, the Committee on Over- the United States, and we don’t want Mr. Speaker, Members have different sight and Government Reform, and the Per- views on how to handle Iran’s nuclear manent Select Committee on Intelligence of that.’’ the House of Representatives; and That was the way he explained this. program, but when it comes to Iran’s (B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, One of the reasons that we don’t ballistic missile and conventional the Committee on Finance, the Committee want that is that intercontinental bal- weapons programs, all 323 cosponsors of on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs, the listic missiles are inherently capable of this bill agree: Iran has no business de- Committee on Appropriations, the Com- carrying nuclear weapons. In fact, as veloping or acquiring intercontinental mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- one expert told the Foreign Affairs ballistic missiles. That is why it is so mental Affairs, and the Select Committee on Committee, ‘‘no country that has not important that we pass this bill and Intelligence of the Senate. give the administration the tools to re- (2) CREDIBLE INFORMATION.—The term aspired to possess nuclear weapons has ‘‘credible information’’ has the meaning ever opted to sustain’’ a lengthy and spond. given such term in section 14 of the Iran expensive missile program. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Sanctions Act of 1996 (Public Law 104–172; 50 I would take issue with that. I do my time. U.S.C. 1701 note). know of one exception to that rule. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, (3) GOVERNMENT OF IRAN.—The term ‘‘Gov- That exception was South Africa under COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, ernment of Iran’’ has the meaning given such the apartheid regime, which did de- Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. term in section 560.304 of title 31, Code of velop the atomic weapon. It is an ex- Hon. EDWARD R. ROYCE, Federal Regulations, as such section was in ample of how sanctions can be success- Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, effect on January 1, 2016. Washington, DC. ful, because when we passed sanctions The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- DEAR CHAIRMAN ROYCE: I am writing with here, the consequence was they made a ant to the rule, the gentleman from respect to H.R. 1698, the ‘‘Iran Ballistic Mis- decision to turn that weapon back over siles and International Sanctions Enforce- California (Mr. ROYCE) and the gen- to the IAEA, as well as to allow Nelson ment Act,’’ on which the Committee on tleman from New York (Mr. ENGEL) Mandela to leave jail, and they held Ways and Means was granted an additional each will control 20 minutes. referral. The Chair recognizes the gentleman elections. That is the exception I know of. As a result of your having consulted with from California. us on provisions in H.R. 1698 that fall within So whether you supported the nu- GENERAL LEAVE the Rule X jurisdiction of the Committee on Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- clear deal or whether you opposed that Ways and Means, I agree to waive formal er, I ask unanimous consent that all nuclear deal, this other issue should consideration of this bill so that it may Members may have 5 legislative days concern you either way. By developing move expeditiously to the floor. The Com- to revise and extend their remarks and the delivery system, Iran is keeping its mittee on Ways and Means takes this action to include any extraneous material. options open. with the mutual understanding that we do So from those who worked on the not waive any jurisdiction over the subject The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there matter contained in this or similar legisla- objection to the request of the gen- deal, one of the architects, Jake Sul- livan of the former administration, tion, and the Committee will be appro- tleman from California? priately consulted and involved as the bill or There was no objection. made it clear to us—and this was 2 similar legislation moves forward so that we Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- weeks ago—that imposing costs on Iran may address any remaining issues that fall er, I yield myself such time as I may for its continued pursuit of ballistic within our jurisdiction. The Committee also consume. missiles and other destabilizing activ- reserves the right to seek appointment of an

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appropriate number of conferees to any HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, The Committee takes this action with our House-Senate conference involving this or COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, mutual understanding that by foregoing con- similar legislation, and requests your sup- Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. sideration of H.R. 1698 at this time we do not port for such request. Hon. JEB HENSARLING, waive any jurisdiction over the subject mat- Finally, I would appreciate your response Chairman, Committee on Financial Services, ter contained in this or similar legislation, to this letter confirming this understanding, Washington, DC. and we will be appropriately consulted and and would ask that a copy of our exchange of DEAR CHAIRMAN HENSARLING: Thank you involved as the bill or similar legislation letters on this matter be included in the for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Com- moves forward so that we may address any Congressional Record during floor consider- mittee and agreeing to be discharged from remaining issues that fall within our Rule X ation of H.R. 1698. further consideration of H.R. 1698, the Iran jurisdiction. Further, I request your support Sincerely, Ballistic Missiles and International Sanc- for the appointment of conferees from the KEVIN BRADY, tions Enforcement Act, so that the bill may Committee on Oversight and Government Chairman. proceed expeditiously to the House floor. Reform during any House-Senate conference I agree that your forgoing further action convened on this or related legislation. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, on this measure does not in any way dimin- Finally, I would appreciate your response COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- to this letter confirming this understanding Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- and ask that a copy of our exchange of let- Hon. KEVIN BRADY, atives on this resolution or similar legisla- ters on this matter be included in the bill re- Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, tion in the future. I would support your ef- port filed by the Committee on Foreign Af- Washington, DC. fort to seek appointment of an appropriate fairs, as well as in the Congressional Record DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY: Thank you for con- number of conferees from your committee to during floor consideration thereof. sulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee any House-Senate conference on this legisla- Sincerely, and agreeing to be discharged from further tion. TREY GOWDY. consideration of H.R. 1698, the Iran Ballistic I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 1698 Missiles and International Sanctions En- into the Congressional Record during floor HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, forcement Act, so that the bill may proceed consideration of the bill. I appreciate your COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, expeditiously to the House floor. cooperation regarding this legislation and Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. I agree that your forgoing further action look forward to continuing to work together Hon. TREY GOWDY, on this measure does not in any way dimin- as this measure moves through the legisla- Chairman, Committee on Oversight and Govern- ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- tive process. ment Reform, Washington, DC. mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- Sincerely, DEAR CHAIRMAN GOWDY: Thank you for atives on this resolution or similar legisla- EDWARD R. ROYCE, consulting with the Foreign Affairs Com- tion in the future. I would support your ef- Chairman. mittee and agreeing to be discharged from fort to seek appointment of an appropriate further consideration of H.R. 1698, the Iran number of conferees from your committee to HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Ballistic Missiles and International Sanc- any House-Senate conference on this legisla- COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, tions Enforcement Act, so that the bill may tion. Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. proceed expeditiously to the House floor. I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 1698 I agree that your forgoing further action into the Congressional Record during floor Hon. BOB GOODLATTE, Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, on this measure does not in any way dimin- consideration of the bill. I appreciate your ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- cooperation regarding this legislation and Washington, DC. DEAR CHAIRMAN GOODLATTE: Thank you for mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- look forward to continuing to work together atives on this resolution or similar legisla- as this measure moves through the legisla- consulting with the Foreign Affairs Com- mittee and agreeing to be discharged from tion in the future. I would support your ef- tive process. fort to seek appointment of an appropriate Sincerely, further consideration of H.R. 1698, the Iran Ballistic Missiles and International Sanc- number of conferees from your committee to EDWARD R. ROYCE, any House-Senate conference on this legisla- Chairman. tions Enforcement Act, so that the bill may proceed expeditiously to the House floor. tion. I agree that your forgoing further action I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 1698 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, on this measure does not in any way dimin- into the Congressional Record during floor COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES, ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- consideration of the bill. I appreciate your Washington, DC, October 20, 2017. mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- cooperation regarding this legislation and Hon. ED ROYCE, atives on this resolution or similar legisla- look forward to continuing to work together Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, tion in the future. I would support your ef- as this measure moves through the legisla- Washington, DC. fort to seek appointment of an appropriate tive process. DEAR CHAIRMAN ROYCE: I am writing con- Sincerely, cerning H.R. 1698, the Iran Ballistic Missiles number of conferees from your committee to any House-Senate conference on this legisla- EDWARD R. ROYCE, and International Sanctions Enforcement Chairman. Act, as amended. tion. As a result of your having consulted with I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 1698 Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- the Committee on Financial Services con- into the Congressional Record during floor self as much time as I may consume. cerning provisions in the bill that fall within consideration of the bill. I appreciate your Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this our Rule X jurisdiction, I agree to forgo ac- cooperation regarding this legislation and measure. tion on the bill so that it may proceed expe- look forward to continuing to work together Let me thank our chairman of the ditiously to the House Floor. The Committee as this measure moves through the legisla- Foreign Affairs Committee, my friend, tive process. on Financial Services takes this action with ED ROYCE from California, for his work Sincerely, our mutual understanding that, by foregoing moving this bill. I was pleased to join EDWARD R. ROYCE, consideration of H.R. 1698, as amended, at him as the lead Democratic cosponsor this time, we do not waive any jurisdiction Chairman. over the subject matter contained in this or when we introduced this bill in March similar legislation, and that our Committee HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, COM- of this year. will be appropriately consulted and involved MITTEE ON OVERSIGHT AND GOV- I stand by his entire statement that as this or similar legislation moves forward ERNMENT REFORM, he has just made. We have an absolute so that we may address any remaining issues Washington, DC, October 24, 2017. meeting of the minds on this bill, and that fall within our Rule X jurisdiction. Our Hon. EDWARD R. ROYCE, that is why we were able to get 323 co- Committee also reserves the right to seek Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, House sponsors on both sides of the aisle, be- of Representatives, Washington, DC. appointment of an appropriate number of cause people understand and realize the conferees to any House-Senate conference in- DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: I write concerning volving this or similar legislation, and re- H.R. 1698, the ‘‘Iran Ballistic Missiles and threat that Iran poses to us, to the quests your support for any such request. International Sanctions Enforcement Act.’’ world, and to our allies. Finally, I would appreciate your response This bill would expand sanctions against The Foreign Affairs Committee has to this letter confirming this understanding Iran with respect to the ballistic missile pro- been hard at work this year devising with respect to H.R. 1698 and would ask that gram of Iran and contains provisions within new tools and approaches for dealing a copy of our exchange of letters on this the jurisdiction of the Committee on Over- with the threat of Iran. There is no matter be included in the Committee Report sight and Government Reform. As a result of doubt that Iran must be one of our and the Congressional Record during floor your having consulted with me concerning consideration thereof. the provisions of the bill that fall within our major priorities in our foreign policy, Sincerely, Rule X jurisdiction, I agree to forgo consid- the world’s most prolific state sponsor JEB HENSARLING, eration of the bill so the bill may proceed ex- of terrorism, a serial abuser of human Chairman. peditiously to the House floor. rights, a lifeline for the murderous

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:46 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.019 H25OCPT1 H8176 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 Assad regime in Syria, and the chal- Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- from California (Mr. MCCARTHY), the lenge we are dealing with today: Iran’s er, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman esteemed majority leader of the House. illicit development of ballistic mis- from Texas (Mr. MCCAUL), chairman of Mr. MCCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, I siles. the Committee on Homeland Security. thank the gentleman for yielding time The chairman and I share the view He is a former Federal prosecutor and to me. I want to thank the gentleman that when it comes to the nuclear deal, a senior member of our Committee on for his work as chairman of the For- which we both opposed, the best path Foreign Affairs. eign Affairs Committee. forward is to enforce the hell out of it Mr. MCCAUL. Mr. Speaker, let me Mr. Speaker, I stand on this floor even while we work to hold Iran’s feet first commend Chairman ROYCE and thinking of the world and America’s to the fire on all these other harmful Ranking Member ELIOT ENGEL for their place in it. What I desire most is peace. activities. strong bipartisan work on this very im- America has no desire to fight those We passed a tough sanctions bill last portant legislation that sanctions who do not harm us. I would gladly summer to crack down on Iran, as well Iran’s ballistic missile program and the support any international agreement as North Korea and Russia. While the Iranian-backed terror group Hezbollah. that I thought would bring us to an bill before us today basically contains Over the last several decades, the ty- honorable and enduring peace. very similar provisions which we dealt rannical regime in Iran has been racing But peace is not based on hope; it is with then and, as the chairman ex- to develop a nuclear weapons program not based on good intentions; and it is plained, we go one step further here, I that could threaten the United States not based on pieces of paper signed at am always eager to find even more and our allies and potentially spark an well-planned ceremonies. Peace is ways to dial up pressure on the regime arms race in the Middle East. based on strength. America and our al- in Tehran, which is a malevolent re- Unfortunately, the extremely flawed lies will only be at peace if those who gime, which is a regime that sponsors JCPOA kept parts of Iran’s nuclear in- hate us fear us. This is where our credi- terrorism, which is a regime that is frastructure in place and strengthened bility matters. hostile to the United States, hostile to the regime’s leader with a windfall of When an American President agrees our ally Israel, and hostile to our other cash. Because this toothless deal failed to a deal that is so obviously unequal allies in the Middle East. But I worry to address Iran’s other malign activi- and untenable, everyone stops fearing that the administration isn’t taking ties, such as support for terror and us. They start to think they can push this problem seriously. their intercontinental ballistic missile us around. So far, the White House hasn’t fully program, we must now find other ways Let me be clear. They may start to implemented the previous bill we sent to apply new pressure. push, but no one can knock us down. to the President. The White House’s Fortunately, the House is taking ac- America will win any fight. Our en- approach to the nuclear deal sends a tion today. One of the bills we are con- emies should know that. But, frankly, bad message to allies and adversaries sidering will require the President to I want our enemies to be so afraid of us around the world that the United they don’t even want to fight. That States might not live up to its word. impose additional sanctions on enemies and individuals supporting Iran’s saves everyone a great deal of trouble. Rather than extracting more conces- When I look back to our nuclear deal sions with Iran, which I believe may be development of ballistic missiles. I sincerely hope that we can soon add even with North Korea and our deal with possible by working hard to build a Iran, they aren’t just flawed; they are strong multilateral coalition, the more pressure on Iran by designating the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps dangerous. The displays of weakness course of this may instead push Iran to have consequences beyond nuclear leave the deal and resume work on a as a foreign terrorist organization, leg- weapons. bomb. We can never allow that to hap- islation I pursued in the last two Con- gresses. Our North Korea deal has failed. The pen. Kim regime will soon have nuclear So I am happy that we keep passing Going after state sponsors is an im- warheads on intercontinental ballistic the sanctions bills, but Congress’ role portant part of winning this fight, but missiles. These warheads will be capa- can only go so far. It is up to the ad- we must fight also directly individual ble of hitting our homeland. In the ministration to lay out its goals, de- terror groups to limit the resources to vise a strategy, and implement the prevent future attacks. That is why I meantime, they have reportedly fired tough sanctions Congress has passed. It am pleased that we also are consid- missiles over our allies South Korea is more than 60 days since we passed ering measures to target Hezbollah. and Japan and, almost daily, threat- the sanctions bill, and the President This package would direct the Presi- ened war. has not implemented it. According to dent to impose new sanctions on finan- The deal with Iran is on a path to the bill, which the President signed, it cial institutions and foreign govern- failure, designed in such a way that, was supposed to be implemented within ments that support Hezbollah and af- even if it were followed, a regime that 60 days, so it sends a mixed message. filiated organizations, as well as indi- chants ‘‘death to America’’—let me say Talking tough is not enough. Con- vidual members of the terror groups, that again, a regime that chants gress sends a bill to the White House, that they have used civilians as human ‘‘death to America’’—could have nu- the President signs it, it really should shields. clear weapons the day after the deal expires. be implemented. So I want to urge the b 1445 President and the administration to Even ignoring the deal, Iran con- listen to this Congress in a bipartisan I will say it is Hezbollah that killed tinues to destabilize the region for its way. We passed this bill. It needs to be so many of our marines in Beirut, Leb- own goal, funding terrorism abroad and implemented, and it needs to be passed anon, let us not forget. fueling violence between Shia and and implemented again. The chairman and ranking member Sunni Muslims that is tearing the Mid- In the meantime, I am happy to sup- and I recently visited Israel, Prime dle East apart. port this bill. I think this shows that Minister Netanyahu, who described the The spread of nuclear weapons is a we need to work together when it Shia Crescent of Iran going into Iraq, danger in and of itself. I do not need to comes to Iran in a bipartisan way to into Syria, into Lebanon. He talked to explain why enemies of the United show that there is really not a shred of us about the manufacturing plant in States should be stopped from gaining difference, that we will not stand for Lebanon manufacturing rockets point- the power to level American cities, but Iran’s aggression, we will not stand for ed straight at the State of Israel. the evil is made worse when our en- the mullahs threatening us, we will not These bills, I believe, will take us emies, with any weapons, think they stand for Iran stomping on its own peo- steps closer toward ridding the world of can push America and our allies ple. this terrible threat posed by Islamic around. Mr. Speaker, I again thank the chair- terror. America will not be weak any longer. man for his leadership on this issue. I Mr. Speaker, I want to thank the Today’s sanction on Iran undermines urge my friends on both sides of the chairman and ranking member. its ballistic missile program and the aisle to support it, and I reserve the Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- terrorist warriors of Hezbollah whose balance of my time. er, I yield 1 minute to the gentleman pockets are filled with Iranian money,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:59 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.052 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8177 just as their hands are covered with ments under the Iran Nuclear Agree- foreign policy to the United States: American blood. This is an important ment Review Act, we now have an op- ‘‘Death to America.’’ Americans should part of our Nation’s new Iran strategy. portunity to address the weakness in believe this. Yesterday, we passed the most far- the nuclear deal and also Iran’s illicit Mr. Speaker, we must make sure that reaching sanctions we have ever im- activity. he does not have the capability to posed on North Korea. Those who do We must continue to press forward achieve a delivery system of his nu- business with North Korea support a on a dual track. We must continue to clear weapons, and I urge voting in regime run on slave labor. They sup- hold Iran accountable for its non- favor of H.R. 1698. port a regime that deprives its citizens nuclear illicit activity, while also look- Mr. Speaker, I also do want to men- of every freedom, even the freedom to ing to address our concerns with the tion another bill that I think is impor- think, and they support a regime that nuclear deal. They are not mutually tant that we pass today, Mr. DEUTCH’s tortured and murdered American cit- exclusive, Mr. Speaker. Both are ex- H.R. 359. izen Otto Warmbier not because he tremely important for our national se- In 2013, the European Union finally committed a crime or threatened their curity. This is an important step. came around to designating Hezbollah government in any way, but because he I thank the Members for their great as a terrorist organization, but for rea- was an American. If you do business leadership. I support passage of Chair- sons that make absolutely no sense to with such a regime, there will be severe man ROYCE and ELIOT ENGEL’s meas- me, the Europeans only designated consequences. ure. Hezbollah’s military wing, not the po- I had the honor of meeting Otto’s Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- litical wing. By distinguishing between parents, Cindy and Fred. They told me er, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman a terrorist group’s so-called military about Otto’s warmth, his joy, his love from Texas (Mr. POE). He is the chair- and political wings, it seems like we of life, and the great hopes he had. In man of the Foreign Affairs Sub- have legitimized this group’s deadly everything, he stood as a living exam- committee on Terrorism, Nonprolifera- behavior. ple of the good in humanity that the tion, and Trade. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Kim regime seeks to destroy. We re- Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I time of the gentleman has expired. named that legislation as the Otto thank the chairman for this legisla- Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- Warmbier North Korea Nuclear Sanc- tion. er, I yield an additional 30 seconds to tions Act. It won’t bring him back, but Mr. Speaker, Iran continues to be one the gentleman. it will remind North Korea that evil of the two greatest threats to the Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, has consequences. United States’ national security and to Hezbollah is a terrorist organization, Otto’s murder was a crime we cannot global security. The other, of course, is and wherever you look in the Middle accept, but it is a crime, I fear, our en- North Korea. East and you find trouble, you will find emies would repeat on a much larger It has become very clear that the Ira- the IRGC and Hezbollah working to- scale if we do not start stopping them nian deal has not moderated the re- gether. These two agencies from Iran now. Let’s remind them who they are gime. Regardless of where people are are the gestapo actors for the Iranian up against. America will not fail. on whether we should have signed it or Ayatollah, and it is time that we hold Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- not signed it, it hasn’t stopped the ag- them accountable for what they are er, I yield 2 minutes to the gentle- gressive activity and belief of the re- doing. We must pass these pieces of leg- woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- gime. islation, and this will go a long way in LEHTINEN), who chairs the Foreign Af- I believe that they are still devel- doing that. fairs Subcommittee on the Middle East oping or trying to develop nuclear And that is just the way it is. and North Africa, and she is the author weapons. No one denies that Iran is ac- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- of multiple laws addressing the Iranian tively working toward developing a de- self such time as I may consume. threat. livery capability for a nuclear payload. Mr. Speaker, as we have shown again Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I Iran’s ballistic missile program is and again, and you can tell with all the thank Chairman ROYCE for authoring going to be and already is a menace not comments that were made here, there this bill alongside our good friend only to the United States, but to Eu- is support on both sides of the aisle for Ranking Member ELIOT ENGEL, the dy- rope and other parts of the world. holding Iran accountable for its dan- namic duo of Foreign Affairs. I want to Iran is working with North Korea to gerous behavior. thank them for their leadership and develop intercontinental ballistic mis- While today’s bill is similar to the bi- their continued effort in holding Iran siles capable of reaching our shores. partisan sanctions Congress passed accountable. These two nations engage in their ac- during the summer, the direction we Mr. Speaker, this bipartisan bill is tivity and belief in hate—hate—of free- are moving today with this bill is the called the Iran Ballistic Missile and dom to destroy the United States and right one: going after Iran for some- International Sanctions Enforcement our some of our allies. We should un- thing outside the scope of the nuclear Act, authored by our chairman and derstand that this is a reality and the deal. ranking member. It is a strong and im- threat is now. We should deal with When the nuclear deal was nego- portant bill. It sanctions Iranian and both of those countries accordingly, tiated, we were told very clearly that foreign persons and entities that sup- not in 10 years. it would not prevent us, would not stop port, that facilitate, that finance Iran’s This legislation, Mr. ROYCE’s Iran us from slapping sanctions on Iran for ballistic missile program. It is a nec- Ballistic Missiles and International other things, other things like support essary measure because, as we know, Sanctions Enforcement Act, is very of terrorism or ballistic missiles, or all Iran has felt emboldened to continue crucial. the troublemaking activities that they advancing its missile program since We must hold the Ayatollah account- do. the P5+1 and Iran concluded the weak able for threatening the global security This is what we are doing today. We nuclear deal. and our security. are slapping sanctions on Iran for its Tehran has taken advantage of this We must hold the Ayatollah and the behavior. We are slapping sanctions on deal and the U.N. Security Council res- IRGC and Hezbollah accountable for Iran because we are not going to stand olution that endorsed the agreement. the people that have been murdered for their doing whatever they please Despite language that prohibits Iran’s throughout the world because of their and helping terrorism, suppressing ballistic missile testing in U.N. Resolu- response to hate, their hating of all rights of its people, and being a general tion 2231, Iran has actually increased peoples who don’t agree with them. threat to the United States. its missile activities, violating both We must target the entire global sup- the spirit and the letter of the resolu- ply chain of Iran’s ballistic missile pro- b 1500 tion. gram. I believe the Ayatollah, Mr. So I hope that we can get a strong, With the President having made his Speaker, when he tells us, on a periodic bipartisan, overwhelming vote for this determination 2 weeks ago that Iran is basis, ‘‘Death to America.’’ I believe bill the way we did in the bill that not in compliance with its commit- him when he says that. That is their Chairman ROYCE and I introduced 3

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:59 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.053 H25OCPT1 H8178 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 months ago, again, which gave the I am pleased my amendment to require a ing its lawful control over its internation- President 60 days to identify sanctions, report on any credible information regarding ally recognized borders. which was not done beyond the 60 days, violations of the UN travel restrictions and any SEC. 3. STATEMENT OF POLICY. and I hope that the administration exemptions that have been approved by the It shall be the policy of the United States to consider the use of human shields by forthwith does that now. Security Council is included in this bill. These Hizballah as a gross violation of internation- So I think this is an important meas- travel restrictions were put in place for good ally recognized human rights, to officially ure. I think it is an important measure reason and we deserve to know whether in and publicly condemn the use of innocent ci- to have a strong bipartisan vote be- fact violations have occurred and what the vilians as human shields by Hizballah, and to cause we have to show the Iranians U.S. and UN plan to do in response. take effective action against those that en- that, while we may disagree on certain I urge my colleagues to support passage of gage in the grave breach of international law things, there is no disagreement on the H.R. 1698. through the use of human shields. fact that we regard Iran as the largest The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. SEC. 4. UNITED NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL. state sponsor of terrorism. The President should direct the United RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois). The question States Permanent Representative to the It is true of both sides of the aisle is on the motion offered by the gen- that we regard Iran as threatening; United Nations to use the voice, vote, and in- tleman from California (Mr. ROYCE) fluence of the United States at the United that we regard Iran as dangerous in the that the House suspend the rules and Nations Security Council to secure support Middle East; that we regard Iran, un- pass the bill, H.R. 1698, as amended. for a resolution that would impose multilat- fortunately, as an adversary of the The question was taken. eral sanctions against Hizballah for its use of United States. The comments with the The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the civilians as human shields. rallies that the Ayatollah holds, death opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being SEC. 5. IDENTIFICATION OF FOREIGN PERSONS to America, death to Israel, is not THAT ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR GROSS in the affirmative, the ayes have it. VIOLATIONS OF INTERNATIONALLY something that we can countenance in Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- RECOGNIZED HUMAN RIGHTS BY this country, and so we are going to er, on that I demand the yeas and nays. REASON OF USE BY HIZBALLAH OF fight it. The yeas and nays were ordered. CIVILIANS AS HUMAN SHIELDS. I am very proud of what the House is (a) IN GENERAL.—The President shall im- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- pose sanctions described in subsection (c) doing today. I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote. And I ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- want to thank Chairman ROYCE, once with respect to each person on the list re- ceedings on this motion will be post- again, for his strong leadership on this quired under subsection (b). poned. (b) LIST.— measure and so many other measures. f (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance after the date of the enactment of this Act, of my time. SANCTIONING HIZBALLAH’S IL- the President shall transmit to the appro- GENERAL LEAVE LICIT USE OF CIVILIANS AS DE- priate congressional committees a list of the Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- FENSELESS SHIELDS ACT following: er, I ask unanimous consent that all (A) Each foreign person that the President Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- determines, based on credible evidence, is a Members may have 5 legislative days er, I move to suspend the rules and to submit any statements or any mate- member of Hizballah, or acting on behalf of pass the bill (H.R. 3342) to impose sanc- Hizballah, that is responsible for or rial in the RECORD. tions on foreign persons that are re- complicit in, or responsible for ordering, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there sponsible for gross violations of inter- controlling, or otherwise directing, the use objection to the request of the gen- nationally recognized human rights by of civilians as human shields. tleman from California? (B) Each foreign person, or agency or in- There was no objection. reason of the use by Hizballah of civilians as human shields, and for other strumentality of a foreign state, that the Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- President determines has provided, at- er, I yield myself such time as I may purposes, as amended. tempted to provide, or significantly facili- consume. The Clerk read the title of the bill. tated the provision of, material support to a Mr. Speaker, I want to thank all our The text of the bill is as follows: person described in subparagraph (A). members who worked on this bill. Over H.R. 3342 (2) UPDATES.—The President shall transmit the last few years, the Foreign Affairs Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- to the appropriate congressional committees Committee has conducted dedicated resentatives of the United States of America in an update of the list required under para- Congress assembled, graph (1) as new information becomes avail- oversight of the threats posed by Iran, able. and we have had dozens of hearings. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (c) SANCTIONS DESCRIBED.—The sanctions And whether the topic was the nuclear This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Sanctioning to be imposed on a foreign person or an agen- program, or the missile program, or Hizballah’s Illicit Use of Civilians as De- cy or instrumentality of a foreign state on Iran’s support for terrorism, or the re- fenseless Shields Act’’. the list required under subsection (b) are the gime’s human rights abuses, the con- SEC. 2. FINDINGS. following: clusion was clear. The United States Congress finds the following: (1) BLOCKING OF PROPERTY.—The President must respond to the full range of (1) Human shields are civilians, prisoners shall exercise all of the powers granted to of war, and other noncombatants whose pres- the President under the International Emer- threats, and with this bill and the oth- ence is designed to protect combatants and gency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 ers before us, that is what we are doing military objects from attack, and the use of et seq.) to the extent necessary to block and here today. human shields violates international law. prohibit all transactions in property and in- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance (2) Throughout the 2006 conflict with the terests in property of the foreign person or of of my time. State of Israel, Hizballah forces utilized such agency or instrumentality of a foreign Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in human shields to protect themselves from state if such property or interests in prop- strong support of H.R. 1698, and am proud to counterattacks by Israeli forces, including erty are in the United States, come within cosponsor the Iran Ballistic Missiles and Inter- storing weapons inside civilian homes and the United States, or are or come within the national Sanctions Enhancement Act because firing rockets from inside populated civilian possession or control of a United States per- we must do everything in our power to curb, areas. son. (3) Hizballah has rearmed to include an ar- (2) ALIENS INELIGIBLE FOR VISAS, ADMISSION, and ultimately put an end to Iran’s malign be- senal of over 150,000 missiles, and other de- OR PAROLE.— havior in the Middle East region and across stabilizing weapons provided by the Syrian (A) VISAS, ADMISSION, OR PAROLE.—An alien the globe. and Iranian governments, which are con- who the Secretary of State or the Secretary United Nations Security Council Resolution cealed in Shiite villages in southern Leb- of Homeland Security determines is a for- 2231, which governs implementation of the anon, often beneath civilian infrastructure. eign person on the list required under sub- JCPOA, contains travel restrictions for certain (4) Hizballah is legally required to disarm section (b) is— Iranian individuals. One such individual is under both United Nations Security Council (i) inadmissible to the United States; Commander of the IRGC’s Quds Force, Gen- Resolution 1701 (2006) and the Taif Agree- (ii) ineligible to receive a visa or other doc- ment (1989). umentation to enter the United States; and eral Qasem Soleimani. There are troubling re- (5) Hizballah maintains an armed military (iii) otherwise ineligible to be admitted or ports that General Soleimani has traveled to force within Lebanon’s sovereign territory in paroled into the United States or to receive Russia, and other countries, in violation of direct violation of United Nations Security any other benefit under the Immigration and UNSCR 2231, yet, the United States and the Council Resolutions 1559 (2004) and 1680 Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.). United Nations have failed to act. (2006), thus preventing Lebanon from exert- (B) CURRENT VISAS REVOKED.—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.055 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8179 (i) IN GENERAL.—Any visa or other docu- (1) FORM.—The report required under sub- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there mentation issued to an alien who is a foreign section (a) shall be submitted in unclassified objection to the request of the gen- person on the list required under subsection form, but may contain a classified annex. tleman from California? (b), regardless of when such visa or other (2) PUBLIC AVAILABILITY.—The unclassified There was no objection. documentation was issued, shall be revoked portion of such report shall be made avail- Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- and such alien shall be denied admission to able to the public and posted on the internet the United States. website of the Department of State— er, I yield myself such time as I may (ii) EFFECT OF REVOCATION.—A revocation (A) in English, Farsi, Arabic, and Azeri; consume. under clause (i)— and Mr. Speaker, I am rising in strong (I) shall take effect immediately; and (B) in pre-compressed, easily downloadable support to this Shields Act, as we call (II) shall automatically cancel any other versions that are made available in all ap- it, which sanctions Hezbollah, sanc- valid visa or documentation that is in the propriate formats. tions them for their use in southern possession of the alien who is the subject of SEC. 7. DEFINITIONS. Lebanon of not only families, but en- such revocation. In this Act: tire villages as human shields; and let (3) PENALTIES.—The penalties provided for (1) ADMITTED; ALIEN.—The terms ‘‘admit- in subsections (b) and (c) of section 206 of the me explain this. ted’’ and ‘‘alien’’ have the meanings given International Emergency Economic Powers As we have discussed today, the Ira- such terms in section 101 of the Immigration Act (50 U.S.C. 1705) shall apply to a person nian-backed terrorist organization, and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101). that knowingly violates, attempts to violate, Hezbollah, has constructed an entire (2) AGENCY OR INSTRUMENTALITY OF A FOR- conspires to violate, or causes a violation of military apparatus in the nation that EIGN STATE.—The term ‘‘agency or instru- regulations promulgated to carry out this mentality of a foreign state’’ has the mean- sits just north of Israel’s northern bor- section to the same extent that such pening given such term in section 1603(b) of title der in Lebanon. It is now complete alties apply to a person that knowingly com- 28, United States Code. with missile production facilities that mits an unlawful act described in section (3) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- 206(a) of such Act. are intended to strike at Israel’s civil- TEES.—In this section, the term ‘‘appropriate (4) REGULATORY AUTHORITY.— ian centers. congressional committees’’ means— (A) IN GENERAL.—The President may exer- I do want to thank the gentleman (A) the Committee on Financial Services, cise all authorities provided to the President from Wisconsin (Mr. GALLAGHER) for the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the Com- under sections 203 and 205 of the Inter- his leadership because he has helped mittee on Ways and Means, the Committee national Emergency Economic Powers Act on the Judiciary, and the Committee on Ap- bring this critical attention to us (50 U.S.C. 1702 and 1704) for purposes of car- propriations of the House of Representatives; today. rying out this section. and But, in the process, as we talk about (B) ISSUANCE OF REGULATIONS.—Not later (B) the Committee on Banking, Housing, Hezbollah, they have placed Israeli and than 180 days after the date of the enactment and Urban Affairs, the Committee on For- of this Act, the President shall, promulgate Lebanese civilians directly into the eign Relations, the Committee on Finance, regulations as necessary for the implementa- path of the conflict. If you go to that the Committee on the Judiciary, and the tion of this section and the amendments border, as I have done, you can see Committee on Appropriations of the Senate. made by this section. command post after command post, not (4) FOREIGN PERSON.—The term ‘‘foreign (C) NOTIFICATION TO CONGRESS.—Not later person’’ means any citizen or national of a manned by the Lebanese Armed than ten days before the promulgation of foreign country, or any entity not organized Forces. Those flags you see are not regulations under subparagraph (B), the solely under the laws of the United States or Lebanese flags, they are Hezbollah bat- President shall brief the appropriate con- existing solely in the United States. tle flags. And they man those posts, gressional committees on the proposed regu- (5) FOREIGN STATE.—The term ‘‘foreign lations and the provisions of this section surrounded by antitank and infantry state’’ has the meaning given such term in that the regulations are implementing. positions, surrounded by underground section 1603(a) of title 28, United States (5) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this tunnels and rocket launchers and arms Code. section may be construed to limit the au- depots. In short, countless Lebanese (6) UNITED STATES PERSON.—The term thority of the President pursuant to the ‘‘United States person’’ means any United villages are, in effect, military bases, International Emergency Economic Powers States citizen, permanent resident alien, en- the ones that are right along that bor- Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) or any other rel- tity organized under the laws of the United der, financed and equipped by Iran. evant provision of law. States (including foreign branches), or any No one has the right to sacrifice the (d) WAIVER.—The President may waive the application of sanctions under this section person in the United States. lives of innocent women and children, for periods not to exceed 120 days with re- (7) HIZBALLAH.—The term ‘‘Hizballah’’ and certainly not those dedicated to spect to a foreign person, or an agency or in- means— the twisted and evil goals of destroying strumentality of a foreign state, if the Presi- (A) the entity known as Hizballah and des- the State of Israel. dent reports to the appropriate congressional ignated by the Secretary of State as a for- When I say I have seen this firsthand, committees that such waiver is vital to the eign terrorist organization pursuant to section 219 of the Immigration and Nationality in 2006, I was in Haifa during the war national security interests of the United that Hezbollah was conducting with States. Act (8 U.S.C. 1189); or (e) EXEMPTIONS.—Any activity subject to (B) any person— Israel, and Hezbollah forces used the reporting requirements under title V of (i) the property or interests in property of human shields extensively in a cow- the National Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. which are blocked pursuant to the Inter- ardly effort to protect their rocket 3091 et seq.), or to any authorized intel- national Emergency Economic Powers Act launchers from counterattacks by ligence activities of the United States. (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.); and Israeli forces. I watched as those rock- SEC. 6. REPORT. (ii) who is identified on the list of specially ets came into civilian populations in (a) REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after designated nationals and blocked persons the date of the enactment of this Act, the maintained by the Office of Foreign Assets Haifa and exploded there, and sent President shall submit to the appropriate Control of the Department of the Treasury those civilians to the trauma hospital. congressional committees a report con- as an agent, instrumentality, or affiliate of In Rambam trauma hospital, as they taining a determination on whether each Hizballah. were bringing people in, I asked for the person described in subsection (b) meets the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- count that day. There were 600 victims, criteria described in subparagraph (A) or (B) ant to the rule, the gentleman from wounded victims of those attacks, of section 5(b)(1). being treated in that hospital—Arab (b) PERSONS DESCRIBED.—The persons de- California (Mr. ROYCE) and the gen- Israelis, Jewish Israelis, Druid Israelis, scribed in this subsection are the following: tleman from New York (Mr. ENGEL) (1) The Secretary General of Hizballah. each will control 20 minutes. all of them victims of those Hezbollah attacks. (2) Members of the Hizballah Politburo. The Chair recognizes the gentleman It seems—and by the way, when you (3) Any other senior members of Hizballah from California. or other associated entities that the Presi- see the devastation, every one of those dent determines to be appropriate. GENERAL LEAVE Iranian-made missiles has 90,000 ball (4) Any person, or agency or instrumen- Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- bearings in it, and that is what they tality of a foreign state that the President er, I ask unanimous consent that all are launching on schools, civilian determines provides material support to Members might have 5 legislative days Hizballah that supports its use of civilians as areas. They attempted to hit the hos- human shields. to revise and extend their remarks and pital itself. (c) FORM OF REPORT; PUBLIC AVAIL- to include any extraneous material in It seems that Hezbollah and its Ira- ABILITY.— the RECORD. nian backers are willing to fight to the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.018 H25OCPT1 H8180 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 last villager there in their quest to an- Finally, I would appreciate your response as human shields. It would ban entry nihilate the people of Israel, yet nei- to this letter confirming this understanding, into the United States to anyone who ther Hezbollah nor Iran has been held and would ask that a copy of our exchange of uses human shields on behalf of letters on this matter be included in the to account by responsible nations for Congressional Record during floor consider- Hezbollah, and it would freeze what- these egregious crimes. ation of H.R. 3342. ever assets they have in the United While Foreign Minister Zarif of Iran Sincerely, States. was coddled by the EU, this issue was KEVIN BRADY, This bill would call upon our Ambas- never raised, not by us, not by the EU. Chairman. sador to the U.N. to push for multilat- We never raised this with the Iranians eral sanctions for the same behavior, as a serious issue. We have to because HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, and it would require the administra- the willingness to overlook these COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, tion to keep Congress apprised about Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. human rights violations is why we find whether certain Hezbollah leaders Hon. KEVIN BRADY, ourselves in the position that we are in Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, would be caught up in the web of these today and why this legislation is criti- Washington, DC. sanctions. cally important. DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY: Thank you for con- It is a good bill and a piece of a This bill calls on the U.S. and its sulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee broader strategy to cut the legs out partners to hold Hezbollah and Iran ac- and agreeing to forgo a sequential referral from under this odious group. countable through targeted sanctions request on H.R. 3342, Sanctioning Hizballah’s You know, some our friends in Eu- and appropriate action at the United Illicit Use of Civilians as Defenseless Shields rope like to say: Well, there are really Act, so that the bill may proceed expedi- Nations Security Council. tiously to the House floor. two parts of Hezbollah. One is the mili- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to I agree that your forgoing further action tary wing, and one is the humanitarian support this legislation, and I reserve on this measure does not in any way dimin- wing, and the so-called humanitarian the balance of my time. ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- wing takes care of people who are in HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- trouble, who need aid, who need help, COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, atives on this resolution or similar legisla- and that is the way the story goes. Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. tion in the future. I would support your ef- The fact is, a terrorist organization Hon. BOB GOODLATTE, fort to seek appointment of an appropriate is a terrorist organization. You cannot Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, number of conferees from your committee to Washington, DC. any House-Senate conference on this legisla- cut it in half and say one wing is good DEAR CHAIRMAN GOODLATTE: Thank you for tion. and the other wing is not. A terrorist consulting with the Foreign Affairs Com- I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 3342 organization is not good. A terrorist mittee and agreeing to be discharged from into the Congressional Record during floor organization kills innocent people. A further consideration of H.R. 3342, Sanc- consideration of the bill. I appreciate your terrorist organization doesn’t want tioning Hizballah’s Illicit Use of Civilians as cooperation regarding this legislation and peace, they want war, they want kill- Defenseless Shields Act, so that the bill may look forward to continuing to work together ing, they want people to continue to proceed expeditiously to the House floor. as this measure moves through the legisla- I agree that your forgoing further action tive process. suffer. So let us remember, Hezbollah on this measure does not in any way dimin- Sincerely, is a terrorist group. ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- EDWARD R. ROYCE, Hezbollah is primarily financed by mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- Chairman. Iran. Assad was losing the war in Syria atives on this resolution or similar legisla- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- on at least two occasions, and, on those tion in the future. I would support your ef- self such time as I may consume. times, Syria had an infusion of fort to seek appointment of an appropriate I rise in support of this measure. Let Hezbollah fighters sent by Iran on the number of conferees from your committee to side of the Assad regime to prop up any House-Senate conference on this legisla- me start off by thanking Representa- tion. tives GALLAGHER of Wisconsin and Assad. And after they did it, the Rus- I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 3342 SUOZZI of New York. Mr. SUOZZI is a sians came in and propped up Assad. into the Congressional Record during floor very valued, new member of the For- So let’s remember the hundreds of consideration of the bill. I appreciate your eign Affairs Committee, and I want to thousands of innocent civilians who cooperation regarding this legislation and thank both of them for their hard work have been murdered in Syria in the look forward to continuing to work together on this bill. And, as always, I want to Syria civil war. That is Hezbollah, a as this measure moves through the legisla- thank Chairman ROYCE for his leader- terrorist organization—bombs in Israel tive process. against innocent civilians, bombs Sincerely, ship. EDWARD R. ROYCE, This is the first of three measures every place else. Chairman. that we are considering today to crack We cannot sit idly by. And so this down on the terrorist group, Hezbollah. bill, again, is a piece of a broader strat- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, I have been focused on this challenge egy to cut the legs out from under this COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, for a long time. More than a decade odious group. Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. ago, I wrote a law to get Syria out of Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to support Hon. EDWARD R. ROYCE, Lebanon and, with it, Syria’s support it. I urge everyone to do the same, and Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, I reserve the balance of my time. Washington, DC. for Hezbollah. DEAR CHAIRMAN ROYCE: I am writing with But this is a group made up of ex- Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- respect to H.R. 3342, the ‘‘Sanctioning tremists, and they will always try to er, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman Hizballah’s Illicit Use of Civilians as De- find new ways to gather resources and from Wisconsin (Mr. GALLAGHER). He is fenseless Shields Act.’’ spread their reach, all in aid of its dan- a member of the Armed Services and As a result of your having consulted with gerous and violent agenda, which is un- Homeland Security Committees. He is us on this measure, I agree not to seek a se- dermining Lebanon’s political inde- also the author of this bill, along with quential referral on this bill so that it may pendence; supporting Iran’s activities, Mr. TOM SUOZZI of New York. move expeditiously to the floor. The Com- Mr. GALLAGHER. Mr. Speaker, mittee on Ways and Means takes this action aggressive activities throughout the with the mutual understanding that we do region; fueling chaos and war in Syria; today I rise in support of H.R. 3342, the not waive any jurisdiction over the subject and threatening our ally, Israel. Sanctioning Hizballah’s Illicit Use of matter contained in this or similar legisla- We need to do everything in our Civilians as Defenseless Shields Act. tion, and the Committee will be appro- power to isolate Hezbollah. We need to First and foremost, I would like to priately consulted and involved as the bill or crack down on its recruiters and fin- thank Chairman ROYCE and Ranking similar legislation moves forward so that we anciers. We need to cut off its supply of Member ENGEL for their steadfast sup- may address any remaining issues that fall weapons, and we need to silence its port of this effort and their broader within our jurisdiction. The Committee also leadership, not only in the Middle East reserves the right to seek appointment of an propaganda machine. appropriate number of conferees to any The three measures we will now con- and as it pertains to rolling back Iran’s House-Senate conference involving this or sider will help us meet this challenge. influence in their terrorist proxies, similar legislation, and requests your sup- The first is a new sanctions bill aimed foremost among them Hezbollah, but port for such request. at Hezbollah’s use of innocent civilians also as it pertains to making the case

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.057 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8181 for American leadership in the world, and sanctioning Hezbollah members now includes up to 150,000 missiles making the case for why American and those acting on behalf of Hezbollah scattered across southern Lebanon, leadership, buttressed by its strong al- who are complicit in or responsible for much of it concealed in mosques, hos- liances, is a sound investment in our ordering or directing the use of human pitals, schools, and homes where civil- safety here at home. shields; identifying and sanctioning ians are used as human shields. I would also like to thank my friend foreign persons, agencies, or instru- Hezbollah has continued its provoca- and colleague, TOM SUOZZI, for his tire- mentalities of foreign states who have tive actions on the border between Leb- less work to make this bill a reality. provided, attempted to provide, or fa- anon and Israel. It has killed and He and his staff have been a pleasure to cilitated provision of material support wounded Israeli soldiers. It has threat- work with every step along the way, to identified individuals; and invoking ened bombings of gas fields and chem- and I think he is a perfect example of financial penalties blocking real estate ical plants. It has tried to smuggle ad- someone who is here and unafraid to transactions, and leveraging powers as- vanced weapons into Lebanon. It has reach across the aisle when it comes to cribed by the International Emergency built an expansive network of tunnels doing what is right for the country. Economic Powers Act. through civilian neighborhoods. The ci- Mr. Speaker, this bill comes at an ex- In short and in sum, the Shields Act vilians caught in its destructive web of tremely important time, when Iran and is a vital and bipartisan bill that ad- terror would have no safe haven if its proxies, such as Hezbollah, are mak- vances American interest, punishes Hezbollah started a war. ing a concerted push on the ground in those who support and enable the bar- Hezbollah has also expanded its ne- the Middle East against the United baric practice of using human shields, farious activities regionally, most no- States, our allies, and our interests. and protects our allies in the region. tably playing a major role in the Syr- This isn’t a new phenomenon, of Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues on ian civil war, deploying thousands of course. Since its founding in the early both sides of the aisle to support this its own men to prop up Bashar al- 1980s, Hezbollah has been one of the critical legislation, and I thank the Assad’s vicious regime. Hezbollah most dangerous and destructive forces chairman again for his help and leader- members are fighting alongside a Syr- throughout the greater Middle East. ship. ian army that has killed almost half a With the exception of al-Qaida, no for- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 million of its own people and driven eign terrorist organization has killed minutes to the gentleman from New millions more into exile. more Americans than Hezbollah. York (Mr. SUOZZI), my colleague on the In the process, it has trained for its b 1515 Foreign Affairs Committee, a fellow next war with Israel. The Israeli intel- With the support of the Iranian Gov- New Yorker, and one of the new good ligence official have said that the ernment and the Islamic Revolutionary members of our committee, and co- group has learned frightening skills in Guard Corps, Hezbollah has engaged in author of this important bill. urban warfare from its years on the a sustained campaign of terrorism and Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I would ground in Syria. It did all of this, of violence, including against the United like to start by thanking Chairman course, at the behest of its Iran patrons States and Israel. ROYCE and Ranking Member ENGEL for who continue threatening to rain war- Congress, along with the United Na- their bipartisan leadership and the heads down into Jerusalem and Tel tions, has repeatedly documented model that they show all of us on this Aviv. Hezbollah’s numerous violations of committee in the work that they do to- From Iraq to Gaza, from Yemen to international law, including employing gether, and for their mentorship as Bahrain, Iran’s proxies have been at human shields throughout the 2006 con- well. the center of the chaos consuming the flict; concealing an arsenal that has I would also like to thank and ap- Middle East. But Hezbollah remains grown to over 150,000 missiles and other plaud my colleague and friend, MIKE Iran’s oldest and deadliest proxy, and destabilizing weapons provided by the GALLAGHER, for his leadership on this its actions in Syria deserve particular Syrian and Iranian Governments in bill, and for working so closely to get attention. southern Lebanon, often beneath civil- this done. We are very grateful to him In town after town, Hezbollah’s mili- ian infrastructure; and maintaining an for his work here. tants prevented civilians from fleeing armed military force within Lebanon’s The Shields Act that I rise in support the Assad regime artillery. Activists sovereign territory in direct violation of right now will sanction Hezbollah have accused the group of carrying out of numerous U.N. Security Council res- members and their supporters for the mass killings and torturing refugees olutions, thus preventing Lebanon use of human shields. It also seeks to and other civilians. Hezbollah is one of from exerting its lawful control over punish the governments that enable the main reasons Assad’s murderous its internationally recognized borders. such war crimes, including their pri- regime continues to stay in power in The State Department designated mary supporter, Iran. 2017. Hezbollah is not only a threat to Hezbollah as a foreign terrorist organi- This summer, I visited Israel and I the people beyond Lebanon’s border, it zation in 1997, leading to the creation stood near Lebanon’s southern border, is a threat to the Lebanese people. The of a sanctions regime against the not far from where Hezbollah threatens U.N. has implicated Hezbollah in the group. Despite these sanctions, Israel’s security. In the over 30 years assassination of a Lebanese Prime Min- Hezbollah has continued to expand its since Hezbollah in 1983 killed hundreds ister. Its use of civilians as human military capabilities due in large part of Americans when it bombed the Ma- shields endangers the Lebanese people to extensive Iranian financial support. rine Corps barracks in Beirut, they every moment of every day. The State Department has continually have become one of the most dangerous I applaud the leadership and the expressed alarm at Hezbollah’s capa- terrorist organizations, not only in members of the Foreign Affairs Com- bilities and influence, describing the Lebanon, but across the entire Middle mittee for continuing to find ways to group in 2010 as ‘‘the most technically East. crack down on Hezbollah and Iran. capable terrorist group in the world.’’ In 2006, it provoked a war with Israel Today there are four suspension bills In 2013, State Department noted the in- by killing and kidnapping soldiers in on the calendar: H.R. 1698, the Iran Bal- creasing tempo of Hezbollah’s terrorist cross-border raids, and then for nearly listic Missiles and International Sanc- activities. a month rained rockets down on Israel tions Enforcement Act, which prevents Despite its extensive track record of cities, killing dozens of civilians. Jour- Iran from undertaking any activity re- terror, Hezbollah has yet to be specifi- nalists and human rights groups found lated to advancing their ballistic mis- cally sanctioned by the United States that it fired many of these rockets siles program; H.R. 3329, Hizballah for its barbaric practice of using de- from populated areas, even from inside International Financing Prevention fenseless civilians as human shields. private homes and other civilian build- Amendments Act of 2017, which re- The Shields Act finally changes that ings. stricts Hezbollah’s ability to raise and finally punishes Hezbollah for That war ended more than a decade money and recruit for their nefarious these atrocities. ago, but Hezbollah remains committed activities; H. Res. 359, which urges our Just a few of the measures included to Israel’s destruction. It has spent European allies to drop their false dis- in the Shields Act include: identifying millions to replenish its arsenal, which tinction between Hezbollah’s political

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.058 H25OCPT1 H8182 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 wing and its military wing, and des- ognize that Israel has a right to exist, port to Hezbollah, and urging the Euro- ignate them in their entirety as a ter- a major step forward would happen. pean Union to designate Hezbollah in rorist organization; and, finally, my Instead, they play games about the its entirety as a terrorist organization. and Mr. GALLAGHER’s legislation, H.R. right of return. So how would Israel Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of these 3342, the Shields Act. ever be able to accept the fact that bills. We must pass these four bills to con- their country is going to be inundated Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- tinue to reduce the influence of a group with other people and taken over the er, I yield 2 minutes to the gentle- and its primary backer, Iran, that have minute they make some kind of an woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- menaced their neighbors and their own agreement to let them do so? LETHINEN), who chairs the Foreign Af- people for far too long. By passing H.R. What we are calling out for today fairs Subcommittee on the Middle East 3342, the bipartisan Shields Act, we will is—yes, we are pointing our fingers at and North Africa. send a strong message that the United the immorality of Hezbollah and their Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I States of America will not stand for association with both the mullahs and thank our dynamic duo once again for the use of innocent civilians as pawns the tyrannical Assad regime in Syria. this wonderful legislation and for in the destructive chess game of Iran’s We point that out, but what we are bringing this bill before us this after- and Hezbollah’s effort to destabilize really asking for is not just a con- noon. I rise in strong support of H.R. the region and the West. demnation. We are asking for peace. 3342, Sanctioning Hizballah’s Illicit Use Mr. Speaker, I applaud my colleague, We are asking for these people to take of Civilians as Defenseless Shields Act, Congressman GALLAGHER, for his lead- a look at moral arguments. America is authored by our friends, Congressmen ership. I am proud to join him in this standing for these moral arguments. GALLAGHER and SUOZZI. I thank the effort. I ask my colleagues for their Please, we are pleading with you gentleman for their leadership. support. through these condemnations of im- I am proud to be a cosponsor of this Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- moral activity, we are pleading with bill, Mr. Speaker, and I applaud our ef- er, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman you to reach a peace agreement with fort here in the House to take up sev- from California (Mr. ROHRABACHER), Israel and to reach a peace agreement eral measures, as you have heard, that the chairman of the Foreign Affairs with the other peoples of that region. address a variety of threats that Iran Subcommittee on Europe, Eurasia, and I am very proud to stand with Mr. and its proxies pose to our national se- Emerging Threats. ROYCE and Mr. ENGEL, as all of us are, curity and the security of those in the Mr. ROHRABACHER. Mr. Speaker, in the bipartisan effort to make sure region. you can say that again. America stands for truth, justice, and The use of human shields is uncon- Mr. Speaker, I am very pleased to be morality. scionable, morally unacceptable, and a here with Ranking Member ENGEL and Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 clear violation of human rights. Yet for Chairman ROYCE. I want to congratu- minutes to the gentlewoman from terrorist groups such as Iran proxies, late both of them on the great work Florida (Ms. FRANKEL), a valued mem- Hezbollah, and Hamas, the use of that they are doing on especially Mid- ber of the Foreign Affairs Committee. human shields is an acceptable tactic. dle East issues. Over and over again, Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speak- It is a tactic used because they engage they have been on top of the situation er, I thank the chairman for the bipar- in terror activity and asymmetric war- and making sure that America’s posi- tisan leadership of this committee. fare. They don’t have the same beliefs tion and the moral position of the Mr. Speaker, this week marks the and morals of the United States or world is declared by this Congress. 34th anniversary of the devastating Israel. Today we have four bills that are in Marine Corps barracks bombing in Leb- b 1530 keeping with that tradition and the anon. As the very proud mother of a It is an attempt to cause innocents great job that they have already been U.S. marine, this is deeply personal to to be dragged into their conflict and to doing. me. My son returned safely from his cause as many casualties as they can First of all, let us just note that this tours of service. Not so blessed were with no regard whatsoever for human human shield legislation, whatever the families of 220 marines and 21 other life. way Hezbollah acts, it is worth us say- service personnel who were murdered Iran and Hezbollah know that if they ing: Look how horrible it is. Look at when Hezbollah struck with truck engage in hostilities with Israel, the the horrible tactics they are using. It bombs at a Marine Corps compound in world will be quick to blame Israel for is worth us having a resolution to draw Beirut, Lebanon, on October 23, 1983. civilian deaths despite the great pre- people’s attention to it, but let’s just The marines we lost that day were cautions Israel takes to not only save be fair. someone’s husband, father, brother, or human lives, but to only go against What this is today is we are calling son. Except for al-Qaida, Hezbollah has belligerents. for peace in the Middle East. We are killed more Americans than any other Responsible nations must condemn pleading with those people who have terrorist group in the world, and it this tactic by Hezbollah and by all of degenerated to the point that they are continues to be a menacing threat to its state sponsors of terrorism. We using innocent people as shields, where all humanity. must take action to hold anyone who their bodies will be cut apart by shrap- Just look at Syria, the greatest hu- engages in such actions accountable. nel or by enemy fire. This is how far manitarian crisis of our time: hundreds Iran and Hezbollah will continue to down those people who would destroy of thousands of civilians murdered; 5 take advantage of our morality—what Israel have gone. So it is just and right million have fled as refugees; they perceive to be a weakness on our for us today. Hezbollah, a tool of Iran, propping up part—and they will continue to employ Yes, they point out the human Assad and fueling the violence. the use of human shields during armed shields, but this is part of a bigger Their actions don’t stop there. conflicts until the world sends a strong problem. That is, that you have the Israelis live under the constant shadow and unified message, and that is what leadership in the Islamic world, in that of Hezbollah’s missile arsenal that is this bill does. part of the world anyway, in the Mid- pointed directly at them. In just a dec- Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman dle East. The Islamic leaders in that ade, they have increased their rocket and I thank the ranking member. part of the world refuse to recognize count from 15,000 to 150,000. They hold Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I reserve Israel and its right to exist. Whether the Lebanese people hostage by embed- the balance of my time. they are using their people as human ding weapons in their mosques, their Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- shields and innocent people as human hospitals, and their schools. er, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman shields to accomplish their mission, These bipartisan bills before us that I from Virginia (Mr. GARRETT), who is a whether they are allied with the wholeheartedly support will help member of the Foreign Affairs and mullah regime who chants ‘‘death to America go after the full range of Homeland Security Committees. Israel,’’ no; when those people—and Hezbollah’s activities, sanctioning Mr. GARRETT. Mr. Speaker, I thank whether it is Iran or Hezbollah or their them for utilizing civilians as human Chairman ROYCE and Ranking Member allies throughout the Middle East—rec- shields, targeting Iran’s financial sup- ENGEL.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.060 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8183 Mr. Speaker, today, I think, rep- when the last war was raging in Gaza, sively with Mr. ENGEL and to observe resents the culmination of a series of the other terrorist group, Hamas, used him and his work here in this House for wonderful bipartisan efforts that, while civilians as human shields. We had a many years. He has always transcended on their face to those who are not initi- resolution on the floor of this House partisanship in my view, but, more im- ated may seem to deal with disparate condemning it, and I was very, very portantly, from my standpoint, he has subjects insofar as they stem from Ira- proud that that resolution passed been a servant of the national interests nian ballistic missiles to Hezbollah’s unanimously. here and the core values of the United use of humans as shields, are, in effect, We need to condemn these terrorist States of America and our attempt to dealing with the same subject. groups no matter what they do, but represent those core values around the Mr. Speaker, one can’t separate when they use people as human world. Hezbollah from Iran. In fact, Hezbollah shields—innocent people—and then try I want to take this moment, espe- was born only a few short years after to blame the other side for the death, cially given his eloquent statement the Iranian Revolution, which brought it is not something that we can coun- here about these values as he spoke such heartache that the loss of life in tenance or stand for at all. I hope that about Hezbollah. These are values that Iran, adjusted for population, mirrors we rise to the occasion this time, as I think all of us should share. that of the entire loss of life by the well, because I can think of nothing The Geneva Convention, itself, estab- United States in combat during the en- more despicable than using innocent lishes standards for international law, tire Second World War. civilians as human shields. and it does so for the protection of ci- These are innocent Iranians killed by These bomb factories are built in vilians in a war zone. They specifically their own government, Mr. Speaker. mosques, they are built in schools, and prohibit, under that Geneva Conven- And we see, also, that the Hezbollah they are built in playgrounds. They are tion, of course, the use of civilians as forces in Israel, Lebanon, and, indeed, built where children are. They are built human shields. It is article 58 of the around the world quite literally have because they are daring Israel and the Convention’s additional protocols that continued to use human shields. United States to go after them when require parties of any conflict to avoid My friend and colleague from Cali- we know that there will be human cas- locating military objectives within or fornia, Congressman ROHRABACHER, ualties. It is really a despicable posi- near densely populated areas. said that Hezbollah actions had degen- tion. So, to date, Hezbollah’s arsenal is erated to the point where they were Here you have two terrorists groups, well over 100,000. As I shared with you, using human shields. While I hold Mr. Hezbollah and Hamas. One is Shia; one all of them are manufactured today by is Sunni. It doesn’t matter. They are Iran. Those rockets and missiles of var- ROHRABACHER in great esteem, I would submit that they haven’t degenerated, both out to kill people. They are both ious ranges today include precision- out to terrorize people. They are both guided missiles. because that implies at some point out to do the opposite of what we try I spoke earlier of 2006, the second that Hezbollah didn’t engage in such to do in the United States: lifting peo- Lebanon War. That actually should be reprehensible behavior. called the Hezbollah war. At that time, So the bipartisan actions led by ple up. They need to be stopped, and this as I talked about the 600 victims that Ranking Member ENGEL and Chairman Congress needs to keep sending strong were in the trauma hospital, they were ROYCE today bring us to where, indeed, messages with teeth behind them to down to an inventory of 10,000 missiles. we need to be by virtue of the reality of the world that we will not sit idly by Today, they have, in the hands of the world in which we live. Hezbollah and allow these terrorist activities to Hezbollah—again, because of Iran— does not exist but for the largess of happen. over 100,000 such rockets and missiles. Iran and the monies funneled by the Using civilians as human shields is So I think, yes, Hezbollah has bla- Iranian regime. really the lowest of the low. The fact tantly violated the well-established The Hezbollah missiles, which Mem- that Hezbollah would put innocent laws of armed conflict. It has targeted ber FRANKEL eloquently spoke of, are, men, women, and children in harm’s civilians for more than two decades in indeed, Iranian missiles, and the ICBMs way as human shields tells you every- both Lebanon and Israel. As a result, that Iran is developing that we seek to thing you need to know about this or- both peoples are victims of curtail stem from a failure to include a ganization. It is a cowardly practice by Hezbollah’s—and, frankly, of Iran’s— prohibition on ICBM development in a gruesome group, and it cannot and brutality, and it is high time we hold the JCPOA under which this Congress shall not be tolerated. them accountable. This we try to do in and this administration now labor. This measure puts us on record again this legislation. I would note for the RECORD, for the condemning this terrorist group, and it Mr. Speaker, I thank, again, Mr. Members, and for those who might be gives the administration more tools to ENGEL, and I yield back the balance of viewing at home that U.N. Security deal with one of Hezbollah’s worst my time. Council Resolution 1929 of 2010, which tools, more tools to deal with The SPEAKER pro tempore. The included signatures from the Russians Hezbollah to stop its terrorist activi- question is on the motion offered by and the Chinese, said that Iran was for- ties. So I urge a bipartisan ‘‘yes’’ vote. the gentleman from California (Mr. bidden from engaging in missile devel- I thank Chairman ROYCE again for ROYCE) that the House suspend the opment. The JCPOA says Iran is asked his collaboration with us on both sides rules and pass the bill, H.R. 3342, as not to engage in this. of the aisle. That is one of the great amended. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The things about the Foreign Affairs Com- The question was taken; and (two- time of the gentleman has expired. mittee because we realize that par- thirds being in the affirmative) the Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- tisanship stops at the water’s edge. rules were suspended and the bill, as er, I yield the gentleman from Virginia When we are talking about terrorist amended, was passed. an additional 1 minute. groups and we are talking about anti- A motion to reconsider was laid on Mr. GARRETT. Mr. Speaker, so we democratic groups, they affect us all. the table. then arrive at the point where the good It is important that this Congress f work of Mr. ENGEL and Chairman sends strong bipartisan measures and a HIZBALLAH INTERNATIONAL FI- ROYCE is needed today, and that is strong bipartisan voice to say we will NANCING PREVENTION AMEND- what we do. It is with a glad heart that not tolerate these atrocities. I note the bipartisan nature of these Mr. Speaker, I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote MENTS ACT OF 2017 agreements. from all my colleagues on both sides, Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- and I yield back the balance of my er, I move to suspend the rules and self the remainder of my time to close time. pass the bill (H.R. 3329) to amend the the way I always do. Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- Hizballah International Financing Pre- Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my col- er, I yield myself the remainder of my vention Act of 2015 to impose addi- leagues on both sides for their hard time. tional sanctions with respect to work on this bill. I want to remind my Mr. Speaker, I did want to say I have Hizballah, and for other purposes, as colleagues that, just a few years ago had the opportunity to travel exten- amended.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.062 H25OCPT1 H8184 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 The Clerk read the title of the bill. ‘‘(3) a foreign person determined by the shall brief the appropriate congressional The text of the bill is as follows: President to be engaged in fundraising or re- committees on the status of the involvement H.R. 3329 cruitment activities for Hizballah; or of the foreign person in activities described ‘‘(4) a foreign person owned or controlled in subsection (a). Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- by a foreign person described in paragraph ‘‘(e) REPORT.—Not later than 90 days after resentatives of the United States of America in (1), (2), or (3). the date of the enactment of the Hizballah Congress assembled, ‘‘(b) SANCTIONS DESCRIBED.— International Financing Prevention Amend- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The sanctions described ments Act of 2017, and every 180 days there- (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as in this subsection are the following: after, the President shall submit to the ap- the ‘‘Hizballah International Financing Pre- ‘‘(A) ASSET BLOCKING.—The exercise of all propriate congressional committees and the vention Amendments Act of 2017’’. powers granted to the President by the Permanent Select Committee on Intelligence (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- International Emergency Economic Powers of the House of Representatives and the Se- tents for this Act is as follows: Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (except that the lect Committee on Intelligence of the Senate Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. requirements of section 202 of such Act (50 a report that lists the foreign persons that TITLE I—PREVENTION OF ACCESS BY U.S.C. 1701) shall not apply) to the extent the President has credible evidence know- HIZBALLAH TO INTERNATIONAL FI- necessary to block and prohibit all trans- ingly assists, sponsors, or provides signifi- NANCIAL AND OTHER INSTITUTIONS actions in all property and interests in prop- cant financial, material, or technological erty of a foreign person determined by the support for the foreign persons described in Sec. 101. Mandatory sanctions with respect President to be subject to subsection (a) if paragraph (1), (2), (3), or (4) of subsection (a). to fundraising and recruitment such property and interests in property are ‘‘(f) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: activities for Hizballah. in the United States, come within the United ‘‘(1) ADMITTED; ALIEN.—The terms ‘admit- Sec. 102. Modification of report with respect States, or are or come within the possession ted’ and ‘alien’ have meanings given those to financial institutions that or control of a United States person. terms in section 101 of the Immigration and engage in certain transactions. LIENS INELIGIBLE FOR VISAS, ADMIS- Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101). Sec. 103. Sanctions against foreign states ‘‘(B) A SION, OR PAROLE.— ‘‘(2) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- that support Hizballah. Sec. 104. Prohibitions and conditions with ‘‘(i) VISAS, ADMISSION, OR PAROLE.—An TEES.—The term ‘appropriate congressional respect to certain accounts held alien who the Secretary of State or the Sec- committees’ means— by foreign financial institu- retary of Homeland Security (or designee of ‘‘(A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the one of such Secretaries) determines is sub- tions. Committee on Ways and Means, the Com- Sec. 105. United States strategy to prevent ject to subsection (a) is— mittee on the Judiciary, and the Committee hostile activities by Iran and ‘‘(I) inadmissible to the United States; on Financial Services of the House of Rep- disrupt and degrade Hizballah’s ‘‘(II) ineligible to receive a visa or other resentatives; and illicit networks in the Western documentation to enter the United States; ‘‘(B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, Hemisphere. and the Committee on Banking, Housing, and ‘‘(III) otherwise ineligible to be admitted Urban Affairs, and the Committee on the Ju- TITLE II—NARCOTICS TRAFFICKING AND or paroled into the United States or to re- diciary of the Senate. SIGNIFICANT TRANSNATIONAL CRIMI- ceive any other benefit under the Immigra- ‘‘(3) ENTITY.—The term ‘entity’— NAL ACTIVITIES OF HIZBALLAH tion and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et ‘‘(A) means a partnership, association, cor- Sec. 201. Blocking of property of affiliated seq.). poration, or other organization, group, or networks of Hizballah. ‘‘(ii) CURRENT VISAS REVOKED.— subgroup; and Sec. 202. Report on racketeering activities ‘‘(I) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of State ‘‘(B) includes a governmental entity engaged in by Hizballah. or the Secretary of Homeland Security shall ‘‘(4) FUNDRAISING OR RECRUITMENT ACTIVI- Sec. 203. Modification of report on activities revoke any visa or other entry documenta- TIES.—The term ‘fundraising or recruitment of foreign governments to dis- tion issued to an alien who the President de- activities’ includes online fundraising and rupt global logistics networks termines is subject to subsection (a), regard- other online commercial activities, or other and fundraising, financing, and less of when issued. means of such fundraising, recruitment, and money laundering activities of ‘‘(II) EFFECT OF REVOCATION.—A revocation retention, as determined by the President. Hizballah. under subclause (I) shall take effect imme- ‘‘(5) HIZBALLAH.—The term ‘Hizballah’ has Sec. 204. Report on combating the illicit to- diately and shall automatically cancel any the meaning given such term in section bacco trafficking networks used other valid visa or entry documentation that 102(f). by Hizballah and other foreign is in the possession of the alien. ‘‘(6) PERSON.—The term ‘person’ means an terrorist organizations. ‘‘(2) PENALTIES.—The penalties provided individual or entity. TITLE III—GENERAL PROVISIONS for in subsections (b) and (c) of section 206 of ‘‘(7) UNITED STATES PERSON.—The term Sec. 301. Regulatory authority. the International Emergency Economic Pow- ‘United States person’ means a United Sec. 302. Implementation; penalties; judicial ers Act (50 U.S.C. 1705) shall apply to a per- States citizen, permanent resident alien, en- review; exemptions. son that violates, attempts to violate, con- tity organized under the laws of the United TITLE I—PREVENTION OF ACCESS BY spires to violate, or causes a violation of reg- States (including foreign branches), or a per- HIZBALLAH TO INTERNATIONAL FINAN- ulations prescribed under paragraph (1)(A) to son in the United States.’’. CIAL AND OTHER INSTITUTIONS the same extent that such penalties apply to (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of SEC. 101. MANDATORY SANCTIONS WITH RE- a person that commits an unlawful act de- contents for the Hizballah International Fi- SPECT TO FUNDRAISING AND RE- scribed in subsection (a) of such section 206. nancing Prevention Act of 2015 is amended CRUITMENT ACTIVITIES FOR ‘‘(c) IMPLEMENTATION.—The President may by striking the item relating to section 101 HIZBALLAH. exercise all authorities provided under sec- and inserting the following new item: (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 101 of the tions 203 and 205 of the International Emer- ‘‘Sec. 101. Mandatory sanctions with respect Hizballah International Financing Preven- gency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702 to fundraising and recruitment tion Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. and 1704) to carry out this section. activities for Hizballah.’’. ‘‘(d) WAIVER.— 1701 note) is amended to read as follows: SEC. 102. MODIFICATION OF REPORT WITH RE- ‘‘SEC. 101. MANDATORY SANCTIONS WITH RE- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The President may, for SPECT TO FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS SPECT TO FUNDRAISING AND RE- periods not to exceed 180 days, waive the im- THAT ENGAGE IN CERTAIN TRANS- CRUITMENT ACTIVITIES FOR position of sanctions under this section with ACTIONS. HIZBALLAH. respect to a foreign person or foreign persons (a) IN GENERAL.—Subsection (d) of section ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The President shall, on if the President certifies to the appropriate 102 of the Hizballah International Financing or after the date of the enactment of this congressional committees that such waiver Prevention Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 section, impose the sanctions described in is in the national security interests of the U.S.C. 1701 note) is amended to read as fol- subsection (b) with respect to any foreign United States. lows: person that the President determines know- ‘‘(2) CONSULTATION.— ‘‘(d) REPORT ON FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS ingly assists, sponsors, or, provides signifi- ‘‘(A) BEFORE WAIVER EXERCISED.—Before a ORGANIZED UNDER THE LAWS OF STATE SPON- cant financial, material, or technological waiver under paragraph (1) takes effect with SORS OF TERRORISM.— support for— respect to a foreign person, the President ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 90 days ‘‘(1) Bayt al-Mal, Jihad al-Bina, the Is- shall notify and brief the appropriate con- after the date of the enactment of the lamic Resistance Support Association, the gressional committees on the status of the Hizballah International Financing Preven- Foreign Relations Department of Hizballah, involvement of the foreign person in activi- tion Amendments Act of 2017, and annually the External Security Organization of ties described in subsection (a). thereafter for a period not to exceed three Hizballah, or any successor or affiliate there- ‘‘(B) AFTER WAIVER EXERCISED.—Not later years, the President shall submit to the ap- of; than 90 days after the issuance of a waiver propriate congressional committees and the ‘‘(2) al-Manar TV, al Nour Radio, or the under paragraph (1) with respect to a foreign Committee on Appropriations of the House Lebanese Media Group, or any successor or person, and every 120 days thereafter while of Representatives and the Committee on affiliate thereof; the waiver remains in effect, the President Appropriations of the Senate a report that—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.064 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8185 ‘‘(A) identifies each foreign financial insti- 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note) cense under the Export Administration Reg- tution described in paragraph (2) that the apply with respect to a foreign financial in- ulations to export or re-export to that for- President determines engages in one or more stitution by reason of engaging in an activ- eign state any item designated by the Sec- activities described in subsection (a)(2); ity described in subsection (a)(2) of such secretary of Commerce as ‘EAR 99’, other than ‘‘(B) provides a detailed description of each tion with a member of the Lebanese par- food, medicine, medical devices, or similarly such activity; and liament or any cabinet official of the Leba- licensed items. ‘‘(C) contains a determination with respect nese Republic who is a member of Hizballah ‘‘(2) AUDITING REQUIREMENTS.—In the case to each such foreign financial institution or identifies as such. of an agency or instrumentality of a foreign that is identified under subparagraph (A) as (2) FORM.—The report required by this sub- state that engages in the activities described engaging in one or more activities described section shall be transmitted in unclassified in subsection (a) that is an agency or instru- in subsection (a)(2) as to whether or not such form but may include a classified annex. mentality of a foreign state described in foreign financial institution is in violation (3) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- paragraph (3), or the Government of the Rus- of Executive Order 13224 (50 U.S.C. 1701 note; TEES DEFINED.—In this subsection, the term sian Federation if the President determines relating to blocking property and prohib- ‘‘appropriate congressional committees’’ such Government is engaged in the activities iting transactions with persons who commit, means— described in subsection (a), the President threaten to commit, or support terrorism) or (A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the shall— section 2339B of title 18, United States Code, Committee on Appropriations, the Perma- ‘‘(A) ensure that United States persons, by reason of engaging in one or more such nent Select Committee on Intelligence, and and foreign persons subject to United States activities. the Committee on Financial Services of the jurisdiction, exercise enhanced due diligence ‘‘(2) FOREIGN FINANCIAL INSTITUTION DE- House of Representatives; and in the jurisdiction of that foreign state to SCRIBED.— (B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, ensure such persons do not directly or indi- ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—A foreign financial in- the Committee on Appropriations, the Select rectly finance Hizballah or engage in trans- stitution described in this paragraph is a for- Committee on Intelligence, and the Com- actions with foreign persons that directly or eign financial institution— mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- indirectly finance Hizballah; ‘‘(i) that, wherever located, is— fairs of the Senate. ‘‘(B) ensure that United States persons, ‘‘(I) organized under the laws of a state and foreign persons subject to United States SEC. 103. SANCTIONS AGAINST FOREIGN STATES sponsor of terrorism or any jurisdiction THAT SUPPORT HIZBALLAH. jurisdiction, maintain— within a state sponsor of terrorism; ‘‘(i) internal controls to prevent such per- (a) IN GENERAL.—Title I of the Hizballah ‘‘(II) owned or controlled by the govern- sons from engaging in a transaction or trans- International Financing Prevention Act of ment of a state sponsor of terrorism; actions with Hizballah; and 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note) ‘‘(III) located in the territory of a state ‘‘(ii) full compliance with relevant laws is amended by adding at the end the fol- sponsor of terrorism; or and regulations; lowing: ‘‘(IV) owned or controlled by a foreign fi- ‘‘(C) ensure that United States persons, nancial institution described in subclause ‘‘SEC. 103. SANCTIONS AGAINST FOREIGN STATES and foreign persons subject to United States THAT SUPPORT HIZBALLAH. (I), (II), or (III); and jurisdiction, engage an auditor to perform ‘‘(ii) the capitalization of which exceeds ‘‘(a) SANCTIONS AGAINST CERTAIN AGENCIES due diligence to ascertain whether— $10,000,000. AND INSTRUMENTALITIES OF FOREIGN ‘‘(i) the internal controls of such person STATES.— ‘‘(B) STATE SPONSOR OF TERRORISM.—In this are effective; and paragraph, the term ‘state sponsor of ter- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 90 days ‘‘(ii) any transactions of such person are rorism’ means a country the government of after the date of the enactment of this sec- directly or indirectly financing Hizballah; which the Secretary of State has determined tion, and as appropriate thereafter, the and is a government that has repeatedly provided President shall impose the sanctions de- ‘‘(D) ensure the accuracy of the inde- support for acts of international terrorism scribed in paragraph (3) with respect to any pendent private sector audits and other due for purposes of— agency or instrumentality of a foreign state diligence processes by providing rec- ‘‘(i) section 6(j) of the Export Administra- described in paragraph (2). ommendations for the processes used to tion Act of 1979 (50 U.S.C. 4605(j)) (as contin- ‘‘(2) AGENCY OR INSTRUMENTALITY DE- carry out such audits, including to— ued in effect pursuant to the International SCRIBED.—An agency or instrumentality of a ‘‘(i) improve the accuracy of such audits; Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. foreign state described in this paragraph is and 1701 et seq.)); an agency or instrumentality of a foreign ‘‘(ii) establish standards of best practices. ‘‘(ii) section 620A of the Foreign Assistance state that the President determines has, on ‘‘(3) FOREIGN STATE DESCRIBED.—A foreign Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2371); or after the date of the enactment of this state described in this paragraph is a foreign ‘‘(iii) section 40 of the Arms Export Control section, knowingly— state that— Act (22 U.S.C. 2780); or ‘‘(A) directly or indirectly conducted com- ‘‘(A) the President determines has, on or ‘‘(iv) any other provision of law.’’. bat operations with, or supported combat op- after the date of the enactment of this sec- (b) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of erations of, Hizballah or an entity owned or tion, knowingly provided significant finan- the Congress that— controlled by Hizballah; or cial or material support for, or arms or re- (1) all countries should designate the en- ‘‘(B) directly or indirectly provided signifi- lated material to— tirety of Hizballah as a terrorist organiza- cant financial or material support for, or sig- ‘‘(i) Hizballah; or tion; and nificant arms or related material to, ‘‘(ii) an entity owned or controlled by (2) the notion of separate Hizballah polit- Hizballah or an entity owned or controlled Hizballah; and ical and military ‘‘wings’’ is an artificial by Hizballah. ‘‘(B) is a state sponsor of terrorism. construct that attempts to legitimize ‘‘(3) SANCTIONS DESCRIBED.—The sanctions ‘‘(c) WAIVER.— Hizballah members of parliament and described in this paragraph are the exercise ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The President may, for Hizballah cabinet officials who are complicit of all powers granted to the President by the periods not to exceed 180 days, waive the im- in Hizballah’s use of violence and coercion International Emergency Economic Powers position of sanctions under this section with against its political opponents. Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) (except that the respect to a foreign state or an agency or in- (c) MODIFICATION OF DEFINITION OF requirements of section 202 of such Act (50 strumentality of a foreign state if the Presi- HIZBALLAH.—Clause (ii) of section 102(f)(1)(E) U.S.C. 1701) shall not apply) to the extent dent certifies to the appropriate congres- of the Hizballah International Financing necessary to block and prohibit all trans- sional committees that such waiver is vital Prevention Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 actions in all property and interests in prop- to the national security interests of the U.S.C. 1701 note) is amended— erty of an agency or instrumentality of a United States. (1) by striking ‘‘(I)’’ and inserting foreign state if such property and interests ‘‘(2) CONSULTATION.— ‘‘(I)(aa)’’; in property are in the United States, come ‘‘(A) BEFORE WAIVER EXERCISED.—Before a (2) by striking ‘‘(II)’’ and inserting ‘‘(bb)’’; within the United States, or are or come waiver under paragraph (1) takes effect with (3) by striking ‘‘of Hizballah.’’ and insert- within the possession or control of a United respect to a foreign state or an agency or in- ing ‘‘of Hizballah; or’’; and States person. strumentality of a foreign state, the Presi- (4) by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(b) SANCTIONS AGAINST STATE SPONSORS dent shall notify and brief the appropriate ‘‘(II) who the President determines is an OF TERRORISM.— congressional committees on the status of agent or affiliate of, or is owned or con- ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—In the case of an agency the involvement of the foreign state in ac- trolled by Hizballah.’’. or instrumentality of a foreign state that en- tivities described in subsection (b)(3) or in- (d) REPORT.— gages in the activities described in sub- volvement of the agency or instrumentality (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days section (a) that is an agency or instrumen- of a foreign state in activities described in after the date of the enactment of this Act, tality of a foreign state described in para- subsection (a)(2), as the case may be. the President shall transmit to the appro- graph (3), the President shall, pursuant to ‘‘(B) AFTER WAIVER EXERCISED.—Not later priate congressional committees a report section 6 of the Export Administration Act than 90 days after the issuance of a waiver that contains a description of any sanctions of 1979 (as continued in effect pursuant to under paragraph (1) with respect to a foreign described in section 102 of the Hizballah the International Emergency Economic Pow- state or an agency or instrumentality of a International Financing Prevention Act of ers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.)), require a li- foreign state, and every 120 days thereafter

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.020 H25OCPT1 H8186 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 while the waiver remains in effect, the Presi- (4), respectively, of section 47 of the Arms (as defined in section 102(f)(1)(E) of the dent shall brief the appropriate congres- Export Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2794); or Hizballah International Financing Preven- sional committees on the status of the in- ‘‘(E) defense information, as that term is tion Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. volvement of the foreign state in activities defined in section 644 of the Foreign Assist- 1701 note)), and any affiliates or successors described in subsection (b)(3) or involvement ance Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2403). thereof,’’. of the agency or instrumentality of a foreign ‘‘(4) EXPORT ADMINISTRATION REGULA- SEC. 105. UNITED STATES STRATEGY TO PRE- state in activities described in subsection TIONS.—The term ‘Export Administration VENT HOSTILE ACTIVITIES BY IRAN (a)(2), as the case may be. Regulations’ means subchapter C of chapter AND DISRUPT AND DEGRADE ‘‘(d) REPORT ON SUPPLY CHAIN OF VII of title 15, Code of Federal Regulations HIZBALLAH’S ILLICIT NETWORKS IN THE WESTERN HEMISPHERE. HIZBALLAH’S MISSILE PRODUCTION FACILI- (as in effect on the date of the enactment of (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days TIES.— this Act). after the date of the enactment of this Act, ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days ‘‘(5) HIZBALLAH.—The term ‘Hizballah’ has the Secretary of State shall submit to the after the date of the enactment of this sub- the meaning given that term in section section, the President shall submit to the ap- appropriate congressional committees a 102(f). strategy to prevent hostile activities by Iran propriate congressional committees and the ‘‘(6) STATE SPONSOR OF TERRORISM.—In this Committee on Appropriations and the Per- and disrupt and degrade Hizballah’s illicit paragraph, the term ‘state sponsor of ter- networks in the Western Hemisphere that— manent Select Committee on Intelligence of rorism’ means a country the government of (1) identifies Department of State prior- the House of Representatives and the Com- which the Secretary of State has determined ities, in coordination with other executive mittee on Appropriations and the Select is a government that has repeatedly provided branch agencies, for defining United States Committee on Intelligence of the Senate on support for acts of international terrorism policy to protect United States interests a report that contains the following: for purposes of— from Iranian and Hizballah threats in the ‘‘(A) An analysis of the foreign and domes- ‘‘(A) section 6(j) of the Export Administra- Western Hemisphere; tic supply chain that significantly facili- tion Act of 1979 (50 U.S.C. 4605(j)) (as contin- (2) coordinates with other executive branch tates, supports, or otherwise aids Hizballah’s ued in effect pursuant to the International agencies to ensure that information-sharing, acquisition or development of missile pro- Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. interdictions, arrests, investigations, indict- duction facilities. 1701 et seq.)); ments, sanctions, and designations related to ‘‘(B) A description of the geographic dis- ‘‘(B) section 620A of the Foreign Assistance Hizballah individuals or networks in the tribution of the foreign and domestic supply Act of 1961 (22 U.S.C. 2371); Western Hemisphere are integrated, coordi- chain described in subparagraph (A). ‘‘(C) section 40 of the Arms Export Control nated, and publicly communicated by the ‘‘(C) An assessment of the provision of Act (22 U.S.C. 2780); or United States in a manner that supports goods, services, or technology transferred to ‘‘(D) any other provision of law.’’. United States interests; Hizballah by the Government of Iran or its (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of (3) describes Iranian and Hizballah activi- affiliates to indigenously manufacture or contents for the Hizballah International Fi- ties in the Western Hemisphere, their rela- otherwise produce missiles. nancing Prevention Act of 2015 is amended tionships with transnational criminal orga- ‘‘(D) An identification of foreign persons by inserting after the item relating to sec- nizations in the region, their use of the re- that have, on or after the date of the enact- tion 102 the following new item: gion’s commodities trade to engage in illicit ment of this subsection, and based on cred- ‘‘Sec. 103. Sanctions against foreign states activities, and their use of Latin American ible evidence— that support Hizballah.’’. and Caribbean visas, including through Citi- ‘‘(i) knowingly provided significant finan- (c) REPORT ON SIGNIFICANT MATERIAL SUP- zenship by Investment Programs to seek ad- cial or material support for, or significant PORT AND ARMS OR RELATED MATERIEL PRO- mittance into the United States, as well as a arms or related material to, Hizballah or an VIDED BY THE RUSSIAN FEDERATION TO plan to address any security vulnerabilities entity owned or controlled by Hizballah; or HIZBALLAH.— to the United States; ‘‘(ii) knowingly facilitated the transfer of (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days (4) includes a review of all relevant United significant arms or related materiel to after the date of the enactment of this Act, States sanctions that relate to Hizballah’s Hizballah utilizing commercial aircraft or the President shall submit to the appro- activities in Latin America and the Carib- air carriers. priate congressional committees a report bean and an assessment of their use, effec- ‘‘(E) A description of the steps that the that contains the following: tiveness, and any capability gaps; President is taking to disrupt the foreign (A) A description of significant material (5) includes a review of the use of the De- and domestic supply chain described in sub- support and arms or related material that partment of State’s rewards program under paragraph (A). the Government of the Russian Federation section 36 of the State Department Basic Au- ‘‘(2) FORM.—The report required under has, on or after the date of the enactment of thorities Act (22 U.S.C. 2708) to obtain infor- paragraph (1) shall be submitted in unclassi- this Act, knowingly, directly or indirectly, mation related to Latin America-based fied form, but may contain a classified provided to Hizballah or an entity owned or Hizballah operatives and illicit networks and annex. controlled by Hizballah. an assessment of the effectiveness of this ‘‘(e) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: (B) An analysis of the extent to which Rus- program for targeting Hizballah in the West- ‘‘(1) AGENCY OR INSTRUMENTALITY OF A FOR- sian strategic weapons deployed in Syria, in- ern Hemisphere; EIGN STATE; FOREIGN STATE.—The terms cluding air defense systems, have provided (6) includes a review of all relevant United ‘agency or instrumentality of a foreign protection for Hizballah fighters in Syria. States sanctions on financial institutions in state’ and ‘foreign state’ have the meanings (C) An assessment of whether Russian Latin America and the Caribbean that en- given those terms in section 1603 of title 28, counter-proliferation safeguards can ensure gage in activities outlined by section 102 of United States Code. that any arms or related materiel described Hizballah International Financing Preven- ‘‘(2) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- in subparagraph (A) will not be used against tion Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. TEES.—The term ‘appropriate congressional Israel in the future. 1701 note) and an assessment of the use of the committees’ means— (2) FORM.—The report required by para- authorities outlined, their effectiveness, and ‘‘(A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the graph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified recommendations for improvement; Committee on Financial Services, the Com- form but may include a classified annex. (7) describes Hizballah criminal support mittee on Ways and Means, the Committee (3) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection: networks, including country facilitation, in on the Judiciary, the Committee on Appro- (A) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- the Western Hemisphere and outlines a priations, and the Permanent Select Com- TEES.—The term ‘‘appropriate congressional United States approach to partners in the re- mittee on Intelligence of the House of Rep- committees’’ has the meaning given such gion to address those illicit networks and resentatives; and term in section 103 of the Hizballah Inter- build country capacity to combat the ‘‘(B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, national Financing Prevention Act of 2015, transnational criminal activities of the Committee on Banking, Housing, and as added by this section. Hizballah; and Urban Affairs, the Committee on Finance, (B) ARMS OR RELATED MATERIAL.—The term (8) includes a review of the actions of gov- the Committee on the Judiciary, the Com- ‘‘arms or related material’’ has the meaning ernments in the Western Hemisphere to iden- mittee on Appropriations, and the Select given such term in section 103 of the tify, investigate, and prosecute Latin Amer- Committee on Intelligence of the Senate. Hizballah International Financing Preven- ica-based Hizballah operatives, and enforce ‘‘(3) ARMS OR RELATED MATERIAL.—The tion Act of 2015, as added by this section. sanctions either personally or to their busi- term ‘arms or related material’ means— SEC. 104. PROHIBITIONS AND CONDITIONS WITH ness interests of Latin America-based ‘‘(A) nuclear, biological, chemical, or radi- RESPECT TO CERTAIN ACCOUNTS Hizballah operatives as well as recommenda- ological weapons or materials or components HELD BY FOREIGN FINANCIAL INSTI- tions for United States action towards gov- of such weapons; TUTIONS. ernments who refuse to impose sanctions or ‘‘(B) ballistic or cruise missile weapons or Section 104(c)(2)(A)(ii) of the Comprehen- who willingly facilitate Latin America-based materials or components of such weapons; sive Iran Sanctions, Accountability, and Di- Hizballah illicit activities. ‘‘(C) destabilizing numbers and types of ad- vestment Act of 2010 (22 U.S.C. (b) FORM.—The strategy required by sub- vanced conventional weapons; 8513(c)(2)(A)(ii)) is amended by inserting be- section (a) shall be submitted in unclassified ‘‘(D) defense articles or defense services, as fore ‘‘or support for acts of international ter- form to the greatest extent possible but may those terms are defined in paragraphs (3) and rorism’’ the following ‘‘, including Hizballah include a classified annex.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.020 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8187

(c) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- TITLE II—NARCOTICS TRAFFICKING AND ‘‘(A) the Committee on the Judiciary, the TEES DEFINED.—In this section, the term SIGNIFICANT TRANSNATIONAL CRIMI- Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Com- ‘‘appropriate congressional committees’’ NAL ACTIVITIES OF HIZBALLAH mittee on Appropriations of the House of means— SEC. 201. BLOCKING OF PROPERTY OF AFFILI- Representatives; and (1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the ATED NETWORKS OF HIZBALLAH. ‘‘(B) the Committee on the Judiciary, the Committee on Financial Services, the Com- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 201 of the Committee on Foreign Relations, and the mittee on Appropriations, and the Perma- Hizballah International Financing Preven- Committee on Appropriations of the Senate. nent Select Committee on Intelligence of the tion Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. ‘‘(2) HIZBALLAH.—The term ‘Hizballah’ has House of Representatives; and 1701 note) is amended to read as follows: the meaning given that term in section (2) the Committee on Foreign Relations, ‘‘SEC. 201. IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS WITH RE- 102(f). the Committee on Banking, Housing, and SPECT TO AFFILIATED NETWORKS ‘‘(3) RACKETEERING ACTIVITY.—The term Urban Affairs, the Committee on Appropria- OF HIZBALLAH. ‘racketeering activity’ has the meaning tions, and the Select Committee on Intel- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days given that term in section 1961(1) of title 18, ligence of the Senate. after the date of the enactment of this sec- United States Code.’’. (d) DIPLOMATIC ENGAGEMENT.— tion, and as appropriate thereafter, the (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of (1) IN GENERAL.—Title I of the Hizballah President shall impose the sanctions de- contents for the Hizballah International Fi- International Financing Prevention Act of scribed in subsection (b) with respect to af- nancing Prevention Act of 2015 is amended 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 129 Stat. 2206; 50 filiated networks of Hizballah, including by by striking the item relating to section 202 U.S.C. 1701 note), as amended by section 103 reason of significant transnational criminal and inserting the following: of this Act, is further amended by adding at activities of such networks. ‘‘Sec. 202. Report on racketeering activities the end the following: ‘‘(b) SANCTIONS DESCRIBED.—The sanctions engaged in by Hizballah.’’. ‘‘SEC. 104. DIPLOMATIC INITIATIVES. described in this subsection are sanctions ap- SEC. 203. MODIFICATION OF REPORT ON ACTIVI- ‘‘Not later than 90 days after the date of plied with respect to a foreign person pursu- TIES OF FOREIGN GOVERNMENTS the enactment of this section, the President ant to Executive Order 13581 (75 Fed. Reg. TO DISRUPT GLOBAL LOGISTICS shall instruct— 44,757) (as such Executive order was in effect NETWORKS AND FUNDRAISING, FI- on the day before the date of the enactment NANCING, AND MONEY LAUNDERING ‘‘(1) the Secretary of State to increase co- ACTIVITIES OF HIZBALLAH. of this section). operation with countries in the Western (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 204(a)(1) of the ‘‘(c) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term Hemisphere to assist in strengthening the Hizballah International Financing Preven- ‘Hizballah’ has the meaning given such term capacity of governments to prevent hostile tion Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. in section 102(f).’’. activity by Iran and disrupt and degrade 1701 note) is amended— (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENTS.—The table of Hizballah’s illicit networks operating in the (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph region, including diplomatic engagement contents for the Hizballah International Fi- nancing Prevention Act of 2015 is amended— (A), by striking ‘‘this Act’’ and inserting that involves— ‘‘the Hizballah International Financing Pre- ‘‘(A) efforts to target and expose illicit net- (1) by striking the item relating to title II and inserting the following: vention Amendments Act of 2017, and annu- works, arrest perpetrators, freeze assets, and ally thereafter for the following 5 years’’; attack Iran and Hizballah’s use of illicit net- ‘‘TITLE II—IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS (2) in subparagraph (D)(ii)(II), by striking works using international trade and banking WITH RESPECT TO AFFLIATED NET- ‘‘and’’ at the end; systems; WORKS OF HIZBALLAH AND REPORTS (3) in subparagraph (E), by striking ‘‘and ‘‘(B) efforts to revoke or deny visas from AND BRIEFINGS ON NARCOTICS TRAF- free-trade zones.’’ and inserting ‘‘free-trade those implicated in Hizballah’s activity in FICKING AND SIGNIFICANT zones, business partnerships and joint ven- the region, including lawyers, accountants, TRANSNATIONAL CRIMINAL ACTIVI- tures, and other investments in small and business partners, service providers, and TIES OF HIZBALLAH’’; medium-sized enterprises;’’; and politicians who knowingly facilitate or fail and (4) by adding at the end the following: to take measures to counter Hizballah’s il- (2) by striking the item relating to section ‘‘(F) a list of provinces, municipalities, and licit finance in their own jurisdictions; 201 and inserting the following: local governments outside of Lebanon that ‘‘(C) efforts to assist willing nations with ‘‘Sec. 201. Imposition of sanctions with re- expressly consent to, or with knowledge the development of counter-organized crime spect to affiliated networks of allow, tolerate, or disregard the use of their legislation, the strengthening of financial in- Hizballah.’’. territory by Hizballah to carry out terrorist vestigative capacity, and a fully-vetted (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments activities, including training, financing, and counter-organized crime judicial model in made by this section take effect on the date recruitment; places plagued with corruption; and that is 90 days after the date of the enact- ‘‘(G) a description of the total aggregate ‘‘(D) efforts to persuade governments in ment of this Act. revenues and remittances that Hizballah re- the region to list Hizballah as a terrorist or- SEC. 202. REPORT ON RACKETEERING ACTIVI- ceives from the global logistics networks of ganization; TIES ENGAGED IN BY HIZBALLAH. Hizballah, including— ‘‘(2) the United States Permanent Rep- (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 202 of the ‘‘(i) a list of Hizballah’s sources of revenue, resentative to the Organization of American Hizballah International Financing Preven- including sources of revenue based on illicit States to work to secure support at the Or- tion Act of 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. activity, revenues from Iran, charities, and ganization of American States for a resolu- 1701 note) is amended to read as follows: other business activities; and tion that would declare Hizballah as a ter- ‘‘SEC. 202. REPORT ON RACKETEERING ACTIVI- ‘‘(ii) a list of Hizballah’s expenditures, in- rorist organization and address Hizballah’s TIES ENGAGED IN BY HIZBALLAH. cluding expenditures for ongoing military illicit networks operating in the region; ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days operations, social networks, and external op- ‘‘(3) the United States Ambassador to the after the date of the enactment of the erations; Organization for Security and Cooperation in Hizballah International Financing Preven- ‘‘(H) a survey of national and Europe (OSCE) to work to secure a report on tion Amendments Act of 2017, and annually transnational legal measures available to compliance by participating states with thereafter for the following 5 years, the As- target Hizballah’s financial networks; OSCE Decision Number 1063, the ‘Consoli- sistant Attorney General for the Criminal ‘‘(I) an assessment of Hizballah’s financial dated Framework for the Fight Against Ter- Division of the Department of Justice and operations in areas under its operational or rorism’, in regard to Hizballah, with par- the Administrator of the Drug Enforcement political control in Lebanon and Syria and ticular focus on the mandate to ‘suppress the Administration, in coordination with the available measures to target Hizballah’s fi- financing of terrorism, including its links Secretary of the Treasury and the heads of nancial operations in those areas; with money-laundering and illegal economic other applicable Federal agencies, shall ‘‘(J) a review of Hizballah’s international activities’, especially as it relates trans- jointly submit to the appropriate congres- operational capabilities, including in the atlantic relations, including with Latin sional committees a report on the following: United States; and America and the Caribbean; and ‘‘(1) Activities that Hizballah, and agents ‘‘(K) a review of— ‘‘(4) United States diplomats to work with and affiliates of Hizballah, have engaged in ‘‘(i) the total number and value of international forums, including the Finan- that are racketeering activities. Hizballah-related assets seized and forfeited; cial Action Task Force, to identify govern- ‘‘(2) The extent to which Hizballah, and and ment entities within Latin America and the agents and affiliates of Hizballah, engage in ‘‘(ii) the total number of indictments, pros- Caribbean that provide support, facilitation, a pattern of such racketeering activities. ecutions, and extraditions of Hizballah mem- or assistance to individuals affiliated with ‘‘(b) FORM OF REPORT.—Each report re- bers or affiliates.’’. Hizballah in the Western Hemisphere.’’. quired under subsection (a) shall be sub- (b) REPORT ON ESTIMATED NET WORTH OF (2) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of mitted in an unclassified form but may con- AND DETERMINATION WITH RESPECT TO SENIOR contents for the Hizballah International Fi- tain a classified annex. HIZBALLAH MEMBERS.— nancing Prevention Act of 2015 is amended ‘‘(c) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days by inserting after the item related to section ‘‘(1) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- after the date of the enactment of this Act, 103 the following new item: TEES.—The term ‘appropriate congressional and not less frequently than annually there- ‘‘Sec. 104. Diplomatic initiatives.’’. committees’ means— after for the following 2 years, the President

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.020 H25OCPT1 H8188 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 shall submit to the appropriate congres- (1) A description of the steps to be taken ers Act (50 U.S.C. 1705) shall apply to a per- sional committees a report that contains— by Federal agencies to combat the illicit to- son that violates, attempts to violate, con- (A) the estimated total net worth of each bacco trafficking networks used by spires to violate, or causes a violation of reg- individual described in paragraph (2); Hizballah, other foreign terrorist organiza- ulations prescribed to carry out section 101 (B) a description of how funds of each indi- tions, and other illicit actors. or 103 to the same extent that such penalties vidual described in paragraph (2) were ac- (2) A description of the steps to be taken to apply to a person that commits an unlawful quired, and how such funds have been used or engage State and local law enforcement au- act described in subsection (a) of such sec- employed; and thorities in efforts to combat illicit tobacco tion 206. (C) a determination of whether each indi- trafficking networks operating within the ‘‘(c) PROCEDURES FOR JUDICIAL REVIEW OF vidual described in paragraph (2) meets the United States. CLASSIFIED INFORMATION.— criteria described in paragraph (3) or (4) of (3) A description of the steps to be taken to ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—If a finding, or a prohibi- section 1263(a) of the National Defense Au- engage foreign government law enforcement tion, condition, or penalty imposed as a re- thorization Act for Fiscal Year 2017 (Public and intelligence authorities in efforts to sult of any such finding, is based on classi- Law 114–328; 22 U.S.C. 2656 note). combat illicit tobacco trafficking networks fied information (as defined in section 1(a) of (2) INDIVIDUALS DESCRIBED.—The individ- operating outside the United States. the Classified Information Procedures Act uals described in this paragraph are the fol- (4) Recommendations for legislative or ad- (18 U.S.C. App.)) and a court reviews the lowing: ministrative action needed to address the finding or the imposition of the prohibition, (A) The Secretary General of Hizballah. threat of illicit tobacco trafficking net- condition, or penalty, the President may (B) Members of the Hizballah Politburo. works. submit such information to the court ex (C) Any other individual that the President (c) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- parte and in camera. determines is a senior foreign political figure TEES DEFINED.—In this section, the term ‘‘(2) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in of Hizballah, is associated with Hizballah, or ‘‘appropriate congressional committees’’ this subsection shall be construed to confer otherwise provides significant support to means— or imply any right to judicial review of any Hizballah. (1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the finding under section 101 or 103 or any prohi- (3) FORM OF REPORT; PUBLIC AVAILABILITY.— Committee on Armed Services, the Com- bition, condition, or penalty imposed as a re- (A) FORM.—The report required under para- mittee on Homeland Security, the Com- sult of any such finding. graph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified mittee on the Judiciary, the Committee on ‘‘(d) EXEMPTIONS.—The following activities form but may include a classified annex. Financial Services, the Committee on Ways shall be exempt from sections 101 and 103: (B) PUBLIC AVAILABILITY.—The unclassified and Means, the Committee on Appropria- ‘‘(1) Any authorized intelligence, law en- portion of the report required under para- tions, and the Permanent Select Committee forcement, or national security activities of graph (1) shall be made available to the pub- on Intelligence of the House of Representa- the United States. lic and posted on the website of the Depart- tives; and ‘‘(2) Any transaction necessary to comply ment of State and all United States Embassy (2) the Committee on Foreign Relations, with United States obligations under the websites. the Committee on Armed Services, the Com- Agreement between the United Nations and (4) DEFINITIONS.—In this subsection: mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- the United States of America regarding the (A) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- mental Affairs, the Committee on the Judi- Headquarters of the United States, signed at TEES.—The term ‘‘appropriate congressional ciary, the Committee on Banking, Housing, Lake Success June 26, 1947, and entered into committees’’ means— and Urban Affairs, the Committee on Fi- force November 21, 1947, or under the Con- (i) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the nance, the Committee on Appropriations, vention on Consular Relations, done at Vi- Committee on Financial Services, the Com- and the Select Committee on Intelligence of enna April 24, 1963, and entered into force mittee on Appropriations, and the Perma- the Senate. March 19, 1967, or any other United States nent Select Committee on Intelligence of the TITLE III—GENERAL PROVISIONS international agreement. House of Representatives; and ‘‘(e) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in (ii) the Committee on Foreign Relations, SEC. 301. REGULATORY AUTHORITY. section 101 or 103 shall be construed to limit the Committee on Banking, Housing, and (a) IN GENERAL.—The President shall, not the authority of the President under the Urban Affairs, the Committee on Appropria- later than 180 days after the date of the en- International Emergency Economic Powers tions, and the Select Committee on Intel- actment of this Act, prescribe regulations as Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) or under any other ligence of the Senate. necessary for the implementation of this Act provision of law.’’. (B) FUNDS.—The term ‘‘funds’’ means— and the amendments made by this Act. (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of (i) cash; (b) BRIEFING TO CONGRESS.—Not later than contents for the Hizballah International Fi- (ii) equity; 10 days before the prescription of regulations nancing Prevention Act of 2015 is amended (iii) any other intangible asset the value of under subsection (a), the President shall by inserting after the item relating to sec- which is derived from a contractual claim, brief the appropriate congressional commit- tion 104, as added by section 105(c) of this including bank deposits, bonds, stocks, a se- tees of the proposed regulations and the pro- Act, the following new item: curity (as defined in section 2(a) of the Secu- visions of this Act and the amendments ‘‘Sec. 105. Implementation; penalties; judi- rities Act of 1933 (15 U.S.C. 77b(a))), or a secu- made by this Act that the regulations are cial review; exemptions; rule of rity or an equity security (as those terms are implementing. construction.’’. defined in section 3(a) of the Securities Ex- (c) APPROPRIATE CONGRESSIONAL COMMIT- change Act of 1934 (15 U.S.C. 78c(a))); and TEES DEFINED.—In this section, the term The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- (iv) anything else of value that the Presi- ‘‘appropriate congressional committees’’ ant to the rule, the gentleman from dent determines to be appropriate. means— California (Mr. ROYCE) and the gen- (C) SENIOR FOREIGN POLITICAL FIGURE.—The (1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the tleman from New York (Mr. ENGEL) term ‘‘senior foreign political figure’’ has Committee on Financial Services, and the each will control 20 minutes. the meaning given that term in section Committee on Ways and Means of the House The Chair recognizes the gentleman 1010.605 of title 31, Code of Federal Regula- of Representatives; and tions (or any successor regulation). (2) the Committee on Foreign Relations, from California. SEC. 204. REPORT ON COMBATING THE ILLICIT the Committee on Banking, Housing, and GENERAL LEAVE TOBACCO TRAFFICKING NETWORKS Urban Affairs, and the Committee on Fi- Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- USED BY HIZBALLAH AND OTHER nance of the Senate. er, I ask unanimous consent that all FOREIGN TERRORIST ORGANIZA- TIONS. SEC. 302. IMPLEMENTATION; PENALTIES; JUDI- Members may have 5 legislative days CIAL REVIEW; EXEMPTIONS. (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days to revise and extend any remarks and after the date of the enactment of this Act, (a) IN GENERAL.—Title I of the Hizballah to include extraneous material on this International Financing Prevention Act of the President shall submit to the appro- measure in the RECORD. priate congressional committees a report on 2015 (Public Law 114–102; 50 U.S.C. 1701 note), as amended by sections 103 and 105 of this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there combating the illicit tobacco trafficking net- objection to the request of the gen- works used by Hizballah and other foreign Act, is further amended by adding at the end terrorist organizations to finance their oper- the following: tleman from California? ations, as described in the report submitted ‘‘SEC. 105. IMPLEMENTATION; PENALTIES; JUDI- There was no objection. to Congress in December 2015 by the Depart- CIAL REVIEW; EXEMPTIONS; RULE Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- ment of State, the Department of Justice, OF CONSTRUCTION. er, I yield myself such time as I may the Department of the Treasury, the Depart- ‘‘(a) IMPLEMENTATION.—The President may consume. ment of Homeland Security, and the Depart- exercise all authorities provided under sec- Mr. Speaker, today we will consider ment of Health and Human Services entitled, tions 203 and 205 of the International Emer- legislation targeting Hezbollah, Iran’s gency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702 ‘‘The Global Illicit Trade in Tobacco: A leading terrorist proxy, with tough, Threat to National Security.’’. and 1704) to carry out sections 101 and 103. (b) MATTERS TO BE ADDRESSED.—The re- ‘‘(b) PENALTIES.—The penalties provided new sanctions. port required by subsection (a) shall include for in subsections (b) and (c) of section 206 of It was 34 years ago this Monday that the following: the International Emergency Economic Pow- a truck bomb filled with explosives

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.020 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8189 detonated outside the United States respond to the full range of threats HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Marine Corps barracks in Beirut, Leb- from Iran. Hezbollah, the regime’s COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, anon, killing 241 of our servicemen. Be- leading terrorist proxy, ranks among Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. tween 1982 and 1984, we had 272 ma- the top of those threats, in terms of Hon. JEB HENSARLING, Chairman, Committee on Financial Services, rines, soldiers, and sailors from 39 what is being encountered right now. Washington, DC. States and Puerto Rico lose their lives So I urge my colleagues to support DEAR CHAIRMAN HENSARLING: Thank you while serving as peacekeepers in Bei- this effort to ensure that the United for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Com- rut. Hezbollah was behind those at- States has the tools to respond. mittee and agreeing to be discharged from tacks. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of further consideration of H.R. 3329, the Since that fateful day, Hezbollah has my time. Hizballah International Financing Preven- collaborated with Iran to expand terror HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, tion Amendments Act of 2017, so that the bill throughout the region, taking hun- COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, may proceed expeditiously to the House dreds of thousands of lives if we count Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. floor. the lives of human beings lost in Syria, Hon. BOB GOODLATTE, I agree that your forgoing further action in Yemen, in Iraq, and in Gaza. Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, Wash- on this measure does not in any way dimin- Today, as a leading Iranian proxy, ington, DC. ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- Hezbollah continues to be Iran’s front DEAR CHAIRMAN GOODLATTE: Thank you for mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- atives on this resolution or similar legisla- line against Israel. Since its 2006 war consulting with the Foreign Affairs Com- mittee and agreeing to be discharged from tion in the future. I would support your ef- with Israel, Hezbollah has dramatically further consideration of H.R. 3329, the fort to seek appointment of an appropriate grown its supply of rockets and mis- Hizballah International Financing Preven- number of conferees from your committee to siles, allowing it to strike throughout tion Amendments Act of 2017, so that the bill any House-Senate conference on this legisla- Israel with great precision and force. may proceed expeditiously to the House tion. It is by putting that military power floor. I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 3329 to very effective use that it has I agree that your forgoing further action into the Congressional Record during floor gleaned through what it has learned on on this measure does not in any way dimin- consideration of the bill. I appreciate your the ground in Syria. In Syria, its fight- ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- cooperation regarding this legislation and ers are key to Tehran and its efforts to mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- look forward to continuing to work together atives on this resolution or similar legisla- prop up the Assad regime, working as this measure moves through the legislation in the future. I would support your ef- tive process. with the Revolutionary Guard and also fort to seek appointment of an appropriate Sincerely, working with Russian troops there. number of conferees from your committee to EDWARD R. ROYCE, So now Hezbollah and Iran are re- any House-Senate conference on this legisla- Chairman. portedly working to introduce game- tion. changing weapons into Lebanon and I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 3329 HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, Syria, and that is what brings about into the Congressional Record during floor COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, this particular bill. What they are try- consideration of the bill. I appreciate your Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. ing to do is produce facilities for so- cooperation regarding this legislation and Hon. EDWARD R. ROYCE, phisticated rockets and missiles there look forward to continuing to work together Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Wash- as this measure moves through the legisla- ington, DC. on the ground, on the border in Syria, tive process. on the border, also, in Lebanon, and DEAR CHAIRMAN ROYCE: I am writing with Sincerely, respect to H.R. 3329, the ‘‘Hizballah Inter- that could lead to another war. EDWARD R. ROYCE, It is not a cheap effort to do this. national Financing Prevention Amendments Chairman. Act of 2017.’’ That is why the committee is focused As a result of your having consulted with HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, on dismantling Hezbollah’s financial us on this measure, I agree not to seek a se- COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES, networks. In 2015, we led the way to quential referral on this bill so that it may Washington, DC, October 20, 2017. enact the Hezbollah International Fi- move expeditiously to the floor. The Com- Hon. ED ROYCE, nancing Prevention Act to target those mittee on Ways and Means takes this action Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Wash- with the mutual understanding that we do that facilitate financial transactions ington, DC. not waive any jurisdiction over the subject for Hezbollah. DEAR CHAIRMAN ROYCE: I am writing con- matter contained in this or similar legisla- Now this bill builds on that effort to cerning H.R. 3329, the Hizballah Inter- tion, and the Committee will be appro- further ramp up pressure on the Ira- national Financing Prevention Amendments priately consulted and involved as the bill or Act of 2017, as amended. nian proxy, Hezbollah. It sanctions re- similar legislation moves forward so that we As a result of your having consulted with gimes, including Iran and Syria, that may address any remaining issues that fall the Committee on Financial Services con- provide weapons to Hezbollah—in other within our jurisdiction. The Committee also cerning provisions in the bill that fall within words, an attempt to stop the transfer reserves the right to seek appointment of an our Rule X jurisdiction, I agree to forgo ac- appropriate number of conferees to any of these weapons. It targets Hezbollah’s tion on the bill so that it may proceed expe- House-Senate conference involving this or innovative fundraising and recruiting ditiously to the House Floor. The Committee similar legislation, and requests your sup- efforts, including its attempts to on Financial Services takes this action with port for such request. crowdsource small donations to sup- our mutual understanding that, by foregoing port its fighters, which is the latest consideration of H.R. 3329, as amended, at Finally, I would appreciate your response to this letter confirming this understanding, evolution of Hezbollah’s efforts. this time, we do not waive any jurisdiction over the subject matter contained in this or and would ask that a copy of our exchange of b 1545 similar legislation, and that our Committee letters on this matter be included in the Hezbollah launched an online will be appropriately consulted and involved Congressional Record during floor consider- as this or similar legislation moves forward ation of H.R. 3329. crowdsourcing campaign entitled: Sincerely, ‘‘Equip a Mujahid,’’ which calls for do- so that we may address any remaining issues that fall within our Rule X jurisdiction. Our KEVIN BRADY, nations, large or small, payable in in- Committee also reserves the right to seek Chairman. stallments or in one sum, to equip sui- appointment of an appropriate number of cide bombers and Hezbollah fighters. conferees to any House-Senate conference in- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, This bill recognizes that Hezbollah is volving this or similar legislation, and re- COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, no longer only a terrorist group, but is quests your support for any such request. Washington, DC, October 23, 2017. also a global criminal organization, Finally, I would appreciate your response Hon. KEVIN BRADY, which has developed a global criminal to this letter confirming this understanding Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, network that profits from drug traf- with respect to H.R. 3329 and would ask that Washington, DC. ficking, money laundering, counter- a copy of our exchange of letters on this DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY: Thank you for con- matter be included in the Committee Report sulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee feiting, and cigarette smuggling, and it and the Congressional Record during floor and agreeing to forgo a sequential referral gives the administration the tools to consideration thereof. request on H.R. 3329, the Hizballah Inter- respond accordingly. Sincerely, national Financing Prevention Amendments Mr. Speaker, for years, this body has JEB HENSARLING, Act of 2017, so that the bill may proceed ex- led the way in calling for the need to Chairman. peditiously to the House floor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.065 H25OCPT1 H8190 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 I agree that your forgoing further action more precise and have a longer range, Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman of on this measure does not in any way dimin- putting virtually the whole of Israel in our committee, Mr. ROYCE from Cali- ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- their sights. fornia, and the ranking member, Mr. mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- Iran’s and Hezbollah’s presence in ENGEL from New York, once again for atives on this resolution or similar legislation in the future. I would support your ef- Syria, particularly in the south, right their leadership. They are the dynamic fort to seek appointment of an appropriate on Israel’s borders, is a very serious duo of the Foreign Affairs Committee number of conferees from your committee to concern. I worry about the deescala- on this issue. This is a very important any House-Senate conference on this legislation zones the United States helped to day, in terms of sanctioning evildoers tion. establish in southern Syria. We don’t in the world. I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 3329 want those zones to become hotbeds of Mr. Speaker, I am proud to cosponsor into the Congressional Record during floor Hezbollah. the bill promoted by Chairman ROYCE consideration of the bill. I appreciate your Several weeks ago, I was in Israel, and Ranking Member ELIOT ENGEL, cooperation regarding this legislation and H.R. 3329, the Hizballah International look forward to continuing to work together and we trekked up to the border be- as this measure moves through the legisla- tween Israel and Lebanon. At the bor- Financing Prevention Amendments tive process. der, as far as the eye can see, when you Act. This is yet another strong, bipar- Sincerely, are in Israel and you are looking down tisan bill that they have authored and EDWARD R. ROYCE, at Lebanon, you see a number of flags. brought to the floor, aimed at holding Chairman. Are they the Lebanese flag? No. It is Iran and its proxy, Hezbollah, account- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- the Hezbollah flag. able for their illicit activity. self such time as I may consume. Hezbollah has virtually taken over I was pleased that my amendment to Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this large parts of Lebanon, strangling the this bill was included to ensure that we measure. Lebanese people as well. The Lebanese identify those Hezbollah parliamentar- Let me again thank Chairman ROYCE people are suffering under a brutal ter- ians and cabinet officials who are sub- for his leadership and for his hard work rorist group that is embedded in a soci- ject to the sanctions in this bill and on this bill. I am glad to be the lead ety that disallows them to act as a free the underlying bill that it amends. Democratic cosponsor of this legisla- and open society. This is important, Mr. Speaker, be- tion, which builds on a law that ED My heart really goes out to the Leba- cause Hezbollah members have prominent positions in Lebanon’s Govern- ROYCE and I wrote in 2015. nese people, who have a terrorist group One of the best ways to stop virtually sitting in their lap, refusing ment, and we want to ensure that they Hezbollah’s dangerous activity is to to move, and putting them in all kinds cannot use government funds to divert cut off its financing, which is what we of danger. to Hezbollah’s terror activity, and, if tried to do 2 years ago. We went after These areas have the potential to they do, those institutions that help Hezbollah’s financial patrons, includ- create a safe haven for Hezbollah and facilitate such activity are held to ac- ing Iran. But again, this is a group Iranian actors. They will stoke exist- count. I was also pleased to see other provi- that, if you block one path forward, ing tensions and could create a cor- sions approved that would allow us to they will do what it takes to find an- ridor from Tehran to the Mediterra- identify and track individuals and enti- other way around. nean through Iraq, Syria, and Lebanon. ties that are being used by Iran to sup- So with this measure, we are broad- This would present a major shift in the ply Hezbollah with arms or support for ening existing law by going after a big- regional balance of power, and it would its missile production facilities in ger universe of Hezbollah supporters present threats to Israel that it could Syria. and enablers. This bill would impose not ignore. We know that Iran uses commercial mandatory sanctions on any third par- If these deescalation zones end up civilian aircraft to fly weapons, arms, ties or governments providing money, empowering Iran and Hezbollah, then and fighters to Syria in support of equipment, or weapons to Hezbollah. we will have betrayed our ally, Israel, Hezbollah. We cannot allow Iran to use We know that Iran will again get at the most critical moment. That is these civilian aircraft for such activ- caught up in this dragnet, and this bill why we are passing this bill. ity. This is the first step toward mak- doesn’t run afoul of our obligations I, again, thank Chairman ROYCE for ing sure that, once these aircraft are under the nuclear deal or any other his continued strong leadership on this identified, responsible nations will deal. After all, Iran’s support for issue. I strongly support this measure. think twice about allowing these Ira- Hezbollah is outside the scope of the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of nian planes to land in their countries. JCPOA. my time. This bill also addresses Iran’s and But it is not just Iran. In recent Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- Hezbollah’s ability to finance their il- years, we have seen Moscow step up its er, in view of the National Defense Au- licit activities, which is so important, support of Hezbollah, particularly on thorization conference, and in view of Mr. Speaker. We must go after those the battlefields of Syria, where Russia the fact that, from the House side, Mr. individuals and those institutions that has supplied Hezbollah with weapons. ENGEL and I both serve on that con- provide financial safe havens to these It is really outrageous. Russia claims ference, I yield the balance of my time terror groups, and we have got to dis- to be fighting so-called terrorists as to the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. rupt their financial networks. they bomb schools, hospitals, and mar- ROS-LEHTINEN), and I ask unanimous That is why this bill is so important, ketplaces. Yet Russian weapons are consent that she may control that time and I urge my colleagues to support ending up in Hezbollah hands. on this legislation. Chairman ROYCE’s and Ranking Mem- Let me be clear: Hezbollah is a ter- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ber ENGEL’s measure before us today. rorist group. It is as simple as that. objection to the request of the gen- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Chairman ROYCE and I have said this tleman from California? my time. many times. The Russia-Hezbollah re- There was no objection. Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, I yield lationship threatens to undermine Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, since I, myself such time as I may consume. global antiterrorism efforts. too, will go over to the Senate side, I Mr. Speaker, it is good to be on the This bill sends a message that any yield the balance of my time to the floor with my friend and colleague government in cahoots with Hezbollah, gentleman from Florida (Mr. DEUTCH), from Florida to speak in support of anyone who wants to do business with and I ask unanimous consent that he H.R. 3329, an important bipartisan ef- this terrorist group or support its vio- may control the time on this bill. fort brought forward by Chairman lent aims, is going to face the con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ROYCE and Ranking Member ENGEL, an sequences. objection to the request of the gen- important measure to further combat This is a timely bill. Iran is building tleman from New York? Hezbollah’s terrorist activity. weapons factories in southern Lebanon There was no objection. We made great strides 2 years ago that would be buried far underground, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I when we passed the Hezbollah Inter- out of Israel’s reach. The missiles that yield myself such time as I may con- national Financing Act, which has al- will come off that assembly line are sume. ready begun to sever the terror group

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.039 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8191 from its funding sources. However, it is Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance sure the U.S. Government is focused on this clear that more needs to be done. of my time. urgent threat. My amendment would require The new bill will further restrict Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I the President to report to Congress on the for- Hezbollah’s ability to recruit and yield myself such time as I may con- eign and domestic supply chain that advances fundraise by targeting foreign state sume. Hizballah’s domestic missile capabilities. This sponsors, including Iran, while also in- For 30 years, Hezbollah has remained includes how Iran is able to transfer goods creasing pressure on banks and other Iran’s proxy and Iran remains and technology, a list of those who facilitate international financial institutions Hezbollah’s primary source of financial missile transfers, and the steps being taken to that serve Hezbollah. support—a cozy relationship. disrupt the supply chain that advances It is important to remember why it is In April 2015, its leader, Hassan Hizballah’s missile capabilities. in America’s interest to combat Nasrallah, boasted that, even under The United States cannot stand by while Hezbollah terrorism. Not that anyone sanctions, Iran still funds Hezbollah’s Israel faces such a grave threat on its north- here or at home needs a reminder, we terror. He anticipated that ‘‘a rich and ern border. We must decisively act and we de- all remember, or we have all learned powerful Iran, which will be open to serve to know what exactly the U.S. Govern- about, the 1983 attacks in Beirut on our the world’’ will be able to do even ment is doing to combat this threat. Embassy and the Marine Corps bar- more. I urge my colleagues to support H.R. 3329. racks that killed hundreds of Ameri- The Iran nuclear agreement has The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. cans; the attacks in Argentina on the made it possible for Iran to provide DUNCAN of Tennessee). The question is Israeli Embassy in 1992, and the AMIA Hezbollah with a windfall. But Tehran on the motion offered by the gen- Jewish center in 1994 that, in total, is not Hezbollah’s only source of in- tleman from California (Mr. ROYCE) killed over 100 more; the 1996 Khobar come. Since its inception, Hezbollah that the House suspend the rules and Towers bombing in Saudi Arabia; and has developed a broad criminal net- pass the bill, H.R. 3329, as amended. more recent attacks in Europe, includ- work involved in a range of illicit ac- The question was taken; and (two- ing the 2012 bus bombing of Israeli tivities, from drug trafficking to ciga- thirds being in the affirmative) the tourists in Bulgaria. rette smuggling, to money laundering rules were suspended and the bill, as But it has been Hezbollah’s support to counterfeiting. amended, was passed. for the horrific Assad regime in Syria These global terrorists double as A motion to reconsider was laid on that has led even Arab governments in global criminals. This is why we must the table. the region to acknowledge Hezbollah’s employ a combination of law enforce- dangerous role as an Iranian terror f ment, financial, criminal, civil, and proxy. Last year, the Gulf Cooperation regulatory tools to deter, disrupt, and URGING EUROPEAN UNION TO Council and the Arab League took the publicly illuminate the global illicit DESIGNATE HIZBALLAH AS A dynamic step of designating Hezbollah Hezbollah network. TERRORIST ORGANIZATION as a terrorist organization. Yet, even while Hezbollah is focused b 1600 Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules and agree to on the war in Syria, its leader, Hassan I want to thank Chairman ROYCE and the resolution (H. Res. 359) urging the Nasrallah, continues to vow Israel’s de- Ranking Member ENGEL for closely col- struction, a threat Israel’s leaders laborating and developing this critical European Union to designate Hizballah in its entirety as a terrorist organiza- don’t take lightly, given two previous legislation, as well as Senator RUBIO wars and intelligence suggesting tion and increase pressure on it and its and Senator SHAHEEN in the Senate Hezbollah now has over 150,000 missiles that have taken the lead on this effort members, as amended. and rockets in Lebanon aimed at every in the Senate. I look forward to con- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- corner of Israel’s map. tinuing to work with them to get this tion. In a future war, Israeli defense offi- critical legislation signed into law. The text of the resolution is as fol- cials fear that Hezbollah will launch Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance lows: over a thousand rockets a day with the of my time. H. RES. 359 capacity to hit civilians in Israel’s Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in Whereas in July 2012 a Hizballah terror at- north, across Tel Aviv and Jerusalem, tack in Bulgaria killed five Israeli tourists and even in the southernmost city, strong support of H.R. 3329, the Hizballah International Financing Prevention Amend- and one Bulgarian; Eilat. Whereas in March 2013 a Hizballah opera- This is made all the more troubling ments Act. This important legislation builds on tive in Cyprus was convicted of planning ter- by reports that Iran, in addition to the Hizballah International Financing Preven- ror attacks after admitting he was a member transferring advanced precision-guided tion Act of 2015. I was pleased to have origi- of Hizballah, was trained in the use of weap- missiles to Hezbollah, is now helping nally introduced this bill in 2014 with my col- ons, and used a dual Swedish-Lebanese pass- the terror group set up indigenous mis- league MARK MEADOWS. port to travel around Europe on missions as Hizballah at the behest and assistance of a courier and scout for Hizballah; sile development facilities in both Whereas though such Hizballah operative Syria and Lebanon. Iran is active in Syria and has helped Assad maintain regime control. Hizballah fighters are was convicted on criminal-related charges, These are unacceptable develop- authorities had to drop terrorism charges ments. They underscore the impor- returning to Lebanon more battle-tested and against him because Hizballah was not listed tance of today’s legislation: cut off more capable than ever before. as a terrorist organization; Hezbollah’s most critical sources of In Lebanon, again with assistance from Iran, Whereas the European Union (EU) in July funding and support, including from its Hizballah has been able to amass more than 2013 designated Hizballah’s so-called ‘‘mili- primary sponsor, Iran. 150,000 rockets—a ten-fold increase com- tary wing’’—but not the organization as a I am proud to support this bipartisan pared to 15,000 in 2006. whole—as a terrorist organization; Whereas despite restrictions put on legislation, and I urge my colleagues to Iran uses several means to transfer weapons to Hizballah, including by land, sea, and Hizballah since the designation of its mili- support it as well. tary wing, the group continues to conduct il- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of air and is now reportedly building missile pro- licit narco-trafficking, money laundering, my time. duction facilities in Lebanon to enable an in- and weapons trafficking throughout Europe; Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, digenous rocket-producing capability for Whereas EU designation of Hizballah’s we have no further speakers, and I re- Hizballah. military wing has enabled substantial and serve the balance of my time. Hizballah is not only a grave threat to our important cooperation between United Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, I thank ally Israel, they are a threat to regional secu- States and European authorities aimed at my friend from Florida for her tireless rity and America’s national security interests. uncovering and thwarting Hizballah’s inter- leadership in standing up for all those Hizballah will be far more dangerous than ever national criminal activities, such as drug pushing back against Iran’s influence trafficking and money laundering, the pro- before with an indigenous rocket-producing ceeds of which are used to purchase weapons in the region, Iran’s support for capability. and advance Hizballah’s terrorist aims; Hezbollah, and specifically here, cut- That is why I am pleased that an amend- Whereas in December 2015 the Hizballah ting off sources of funding for ment I offered during the full committee mark- International Financing Prevention Act of Hezbollah. up of H.R. 3329 was included in the bill to en- 2015 (Public Law 114–102) was signed into law

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:28 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.068 H25OCPT1 H8192 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 in the United States, broadening financial Whereas the United States has designated Ranking Member TED DEUTCH of the sector sanctions against Hizballah to compel Hizballah’s Foreign Relations Department, Middle East and North Africa Sub- foreign financial institutions to refrain from which has representatives around the world, committee, and our Florida colleague, supporting the terrorist group; as a Specially Designated National, subject GUS BILIRAKIS, who are the authors of Whereas in February 2016 the United to United States primary and secondary States Drug Enforcement Administration sanctions; H. Res. 359, urging the European Union and U.S. Customs and Border Protection Whereas the Department of the Treasury to designate Hezbollah in its entirety partnered with counterparts in France, Ger- has diligently added persons and entities to as a terrorist organization. I thank Mr. many, Italy, and Belgium to arrest top lead- the list of Specially Designated Global Ter- DEUTCH for his leadership on this. ers of the European cell of Hizballah’s Exter- rorists who have provided material support This notion, Mr. Speaker, that there nal Security Organization Business Affairs to the Hizballah terrorist organization, can be separate wings of a terrorist or- Component—a cell that engages in inter- thereby hampering its financing and ganization is as absurd as the notion national money laundering and drug traf- logistical capabilities; and that Iran can be a responsible member ficking to support Hizballah’s terror activi- Whereas in May 2017 the United States and ties; Saudi Arabia sanctioned Hashem Saffiedine, of the international community. There Whereas for many years, the Governments a member of Hizballah’s executive council is no distinction between Hezbollah of Iran and Syria have been the prime spon- which oversees the organization’s political, members. Anyone who pledges alle- sors of Hizballah, harboring, financing, organizational, social and educational ac- giance to this terror group must be la- training, and arming the group; tivities, for his involvement in terrorist ac- beled accordingly. Whereas Department of Defense officials tivity: Now, therefore, be it One needn’t look further than estimate that Iran provides as much as Resolved, That the House of Representa- Hezbollah’s activities in Syria or its $200,000,000 per year to Hizballah in the form tives— terror attacks against Israel or even of financial and logistical support, weapons, (1) expresses appreciation to the European and training; Union (EU) for the progress made in coun- the statements coming out of Iran, its Whereas Hizballah now has an arsenal of tering Hizballah since the EU designated patron, and Hezbollah itself to know approximately 150,000 missiles and rockets, Hizballah’s military wing as a terrorist orga- that if you are Hezbollah, you support many of which can reach deep into Israel, at nization; terror activities. Iran is a state sponsor a time when Hizballah Secretary General (2) applauds and expresses support for the of terrorism, and Hezbollah is its Hassan Nasrallah is threatening to attack continued, increased cooperation between proxy. and invade Israel; the United States and the EU in thwarting Whereas Hizballah fighters have been sup- There is simply no justification at all Hizballah’s criminal and terrorist activities; for our European friends to try to dif- porting the Assad regime in Syria, often (3) supports transcontinental efforts within leading operations in the conflict which has Europe to share intelligence information ferentiate between a military wing and left more than 465,000 dead; among police and security services to facili- a political wing of a terrorist organiza- Whereas Russia has established fusion cen- tate greater cooperation in tracking, appre- tion. They may justify it by saying it ters in Syria to coordinate with Iran, the hending, and prosecuting terrorists, foreign will upset the delicate balance in Leb- Assad regime, and Hizballah, and Russian air fighters, and potential offenders; anon and they worry about the fallout, cover has given Hizballah an advantage on (4) encourages the EU to, whenever pos- but the sad reality is that it comes the battlefield against Syria rebels; sible and applicable with due process stand- Whereas Hizballah’s destabilizing actions down to money. ards, implement sanctions against Hizballah- They will not take any action in the conflict in Syria has fueled a migrant affiliated terrorists in tandem with the crisis that has brought nearly 400,000 mi- against Iran, as we have seen since the United States; and grants and refugees to Europe in 2016 and (5) urges the EU to designate Hizballah in JCPOA, because members of the EU 2017 alone; its entirety as a terrorist organization and have signed lucrative business deals Whereas Lebanon continues to be plagued increase pressure on the group, including with Iran, and they don’t want to dam- by instability and violence; through— age their economic opportunities. It is Whereas due to Hizballah’s actions in (A) facilitating better cross-border co- Syria, the Islamic State of Iraq and the Le- as simple as that, because even our operation between EU members in com- vant has carried out retaliatory terrorist at- Gulf allies have labeled Hezbollah, in bating Hizballah; tacks in Beirut; its entirety, as a terrorist organiza- (B) issuing arrest warrants against mem- Whereas the Lebanese Armed Forces, the tion. bers and active supporters of Hizballah; legitimate security establishment of the The European Union needs to wake country as set forth in United Nations Secu- (C) freezing Hizballah’s assets in Europe, including those masquerading as charities; up, and we must urge it and its mem- rity Council Resolution 1701 (2006), are strug- ber states to designate the whole of gling to control the flow of weapons and and Hizballah fighters at its borders; (D) prohibiting fundraising activities in Hezbollah as the terrorists that they Whereas Hizballah trains and provides support of Hizballah. are, and it must realize that doing so weapons for Shiite militias in Iraq and The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- would be in their best interest and in Yemen, further destabilizing the region and ant to the rule, the gentlewoman from the best interest of Israel, a nation perpetuating violence in those countries; Florida (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN) and the that shares their values and their Whereas in October 2012 Hizballah Deputy gentleman from Florida (Mr. DEUTCH) ideals, unlike Iran, a regime that bene- Secretary General Naim Qassem stated that each will control 20 minutes. fits by the lack of a full designation of ‘‘[Hizballah does not] have a military wing The Chair recognizes the gentle- Hezbollah. and a political one . . . Every element of Hizballah, from commanders to members as woman from Florida. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of well as our various capabilities, are in the GENERAL LEAVE my time. service of the resistance’’; Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, I yield Whereas the United States, Canada, Israel, ask unanimous consent that all Mem- myself such time as I may consume. and the Netherlands have designated bers have 5 legislative days to revise Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. Hizballah in its entirety as a terror organiza- and extend their remarks and to in- Res. 359. tion, while Australia and New Zealand have clude extraneous material on this I would first like to thank Chairman applied the designation to the organization’s measure. ROYCE and Ranking Member ENGEL for so-called military wing; their leadership on the committee in Whereas in March 2016 the Gulf Coopera- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tion Council, the bloc of six Gulf Arab na- objection to the request of the gentle- bringing this resolution forward. I tions, formally branded Hizballah, in its en- woman from Florida? would like to thank my friend from tirety, a terrorist organization, and the There was no objection. Florida, Congressman BILIRAKIS, for League of Arab States shortly thereafter Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I working with me on this resolution. I adopted the same designation; yield myself such time as I may con- thank as well Chairman ROS-LEHTINEN Whereas in April 2016 the Organization of sume. for her leadership on the subcommittee Islamic Cooperation, denounced Hizballah’s Mr. Speaker, I thank the Speaker and ensuring that we have the oppor- ‘‘terrorist acts’’ in the Middle East; and Chairman ROYCE, as well as Con- tunity to move forward together. Whereas Hizballah Secretary General Mr. Speaker, in 2013, almost exactly 1 Nasrallah said in May 2017 that the conflict gressman ENGEL, the ranking member, in Syria had entered a ‘‘new and critical for their help in bringing this impor- year after a Hezbollah suicide bomber phase’’ in which Damascus, Moscow, Tehran, tant resolution to the floor. blew up a bus in Bulgaria, killing most- and Hezbollah were ‘‘in more harmony politi- I also want to say how proud our ly Israeli tourists, the European Union cally and militarily than at any time’’; committee is of the great work of took action to finally designate

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.026 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8193 Hezbollah a terrorist organization. and that begins with calling them what Small Business and a senior member of However, they only designated what they are, a terrorist organization com- our Committee on Foreign Affairs. they called Hezbollah’s military wing mitted to the destruction of Israel and Mr. CHABOT. Mr. Speaker, I want to as a terror group and not its political undermining the values and interests thank Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, Chairman wing. of the United States. ROYCE, and all the other folks that The United States has been clear Our EU friends must acknowledge as have worked on a number of bills here that this was a false distinction then well the values and interests of Europe. today. and it remains a false distinction The world knows that Hezbollah is a I rise in strong support of H. Res. 359; today. Hezbollah is one unified ter- terrorist group. It is time for the Euro- H.R. 3329; H.R. 3342; and H.R. 1698, that rorist organization, and it is led by the pean Union to end its false distinction one, in particular, aims to prevent Iran terrorist, Hassan Nasrallah. It is one and join us in designating all of from acquiring ballistic missiles be- unified Hezbollah that is responsible Hezbollah as a terrorist organization. I cause they have the capability or soon for the horrific acts of terror against urge my colleagues to support this res- will have the capability not just to tar- Europeans, Americans, Israelis, and olution and to send them that message. get the Middle East and Europe, but others across the Middle East and Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of also target us here on our soil right around the globe. my time. here in the United States if we don’t do It is one unified Hezbollah that has Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I something about this, with ultimately helped prop up the Assad regime, and it have no further requests for time, so I a nuclear device. is complicit in the death of half a mil- will wait for Mr. DEUTCH to close on his Iran is determined to be the domi- lion Syrians and the dissolving of a time. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the bal- nant power in the Middle East. The Ira- once thriving nation. So this one uni- ance of my time. nian regime hopes to achieve this by fied Hezbollah should be designated as Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, I am exporting terrorism, destabilizing its a terrorist organization so we can in- grateful to Chairman ROYCE, Ranking neighbors, and promising death to crease international cooperation to Member ENGEL, Chairman ROS- America and to our allies. isolate and dismantle this group. LEHTINEN, Congressman BILIRAKIS, and Bearing this in mind, Iran’s nuclear This morning, Mr. Speaker, the Mid- to my colleagues on the Foreign Af- ambitions and ballistic missiles pro- dle East and North Africa Sub- fairs Committee and other Members for gram are not only a direct threat to committee held a hearing on next steps their work on the three measures the United States and our allies, but for our Iran policy. There, I noted that today aimed at curbing the terrorist they are a direct threat to the peace 2 days ago we marked a solemn anni- group Hezbollah. and stability of the entire world. versary, because 34 years ago, on Octo- The measures that we are advancing When the Iran deal was signed, I said ber 23, two Hezbollah suicide bombers today represent smart and tough ap- back then and believed back then that blew themselves up at the Marine proaches that will respond to Hezbollah this was a bad deal, it would ulti- Corps barracks in Beirut, killing over and its enablers, and will build strong- mately lead to nuclear weapons, and 300 U.S. and French servicemembers, er international support for this impor- that they weren’t going to meet their peacekeepers, and civilians. That at- tant effort. This measure and the oth- commitments. And we are seeing here tack, like so many of Hezbollah’s dead- ers that we have considered today are a today the backsliding by Iran to these ly terrorist activities over the past sev- great example of the way that we can commitments. eral decades, was sponsored and di- work across the aisle to help keep our Ten years ago, Russia agreed to sell a rected by Iran. country safe. I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote on number of S–300 surface-to-air missile While our Nation built a memorial this resolution. systems to Iran. The Russians sus- honoring the victims of that attack, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance pended the deal in 2010, but renewed it Tehran built a monument honoring the of my time. after the Iran deal, the JCPOA was perpetrators of that attack. A full EU Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I agreed to. Now Moscow has delivered designation of Hezbollah now would yield myself such time as I may con- multiple S–300 systems. help demonstrate Europe’s commit- sume. While the S–300 missile platforms ment to cracking down on Iran’s use of Mr. Speaker, I thank my good friend strengthens Iran’s conventional capa- proxy terror groups, destabilizing the from Florida, Ranking Member bilities, it also fundamentally com- region, and attacking Western inter- DEUTCH, for authoring this resolution plicates the United States’ strategy for ests. and bringing it to the floor today. eliminating a potential nuclear threat Now, I understand that the EU has Hezbollah has a single leadership, against us or against our allies. Iran legal concerns about this designation fungible finances, and a single hostile displayed this surface-to-air missile since Hezbollah has infiltrated Leb- mission. All branches and operations system to the public late last month, anon’s political system. However, I serve its terrorist activities, and it is a so we know it is there and it is dan- would just offer this observation. The deadly mistake to attempt to distin- gerous. terrorist organization Hamas operates guish among its arms. That is exactly why H.R. 1698 is so as a political party in Gaza, yet the EU I again want to thank Mr. DEUTCH, important. It will help combat Iran’s still rightly lists the entirety of Hamas Chairman ROYCE, Ranking Member ongoing nuclear ambitions by requiring as a terror organization. That has not ENGEL for their work on this important the President to report on the Iranian impacted their ability to support Gaza resolution, which calls for our Euro- ballistic missiles program and to op- reconstruction, just as designating pean allies to designate all branches of pose targeted sanctions on Iranian Hezbollah would not prevent them Hezbollah as a terrorist organization. Government entities and foreign actors from supporting Syrian refugees in This is a critical step that our partners that aid Iran in its nuclear develop- Lebanon. across the Atlantic must take to pro- ment. Last year, the Gulf Cooperation tect our citizens and allies from a high- I also want to speak briefly relative Council and the Arab League both des- ly organized, capable, and increasingly to the threat that Hezbollah poses to ignated Hezbollah as a terrorist organi- battle-trained terror group that oper- the Middle East and the entire world. I, zation. They made no distinction be- ates networks in countries around the again, want to thank Congressman tween the military and political wing, world. ROYCE and Congresswoman ROS- despite Lebanon being a member of the We must work together to deprive LEHTINEN and Ranking Member ENGEL Arab League. I hope the EU took note this organization of its support. I, and many others for their hard work on of that. therefore, urge my colleagues to join this. I thank the Speaker for bringing this me in support of this resolution. I Hezbollah’s mission is to destroy resolution to the floor so that my col- thank the gentleman from Florida for Israel. It is backed by Iran. It poses a leagues can join me in sending an im- his authorship. constant threat to the Middle East portant message to our European Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 minutes to the peace. We have designated it as a ter- friends and allies. More can be done to gentleman from Ohio (Mr. CHABOT), the rorist organization due to its routine counter the Iranian proxy Hezbollah, chairman of the House Committee on attacks, especially rocket attacks on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.071 H25OCPT1 H8194 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 Israel that have led to war, and its bru- States and our allies, and contributes to insta- The Chair recognizes the gentleman tal tactics. bility and violence in the Middle East. from Georgia. Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- b 1615 The EU designated Hizballah’s military wing as a terrorist organization in 2013, and has man, I yield myself such time as I may For years, Hezbollah has continued made notable progress in countering Hizballah consume. to accumulate larger rocket stockpiles, activities, but more must be done. This resolu- Mr. Chairman, I am glad to be here grow their presence, and develop even tion urges the EU to take practical and tan- on H.R. 469. We have had the oppor- more unimaginable barbaric strategies. gible steps to reduce the terrorist threat posed tunity, through rule debate yesterday, Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my col- to the United States, Europe, Israel, and our to discuss this. leagues for these, and I urge my col- other allies in the Middle East by Hizballah. What we are coming forward with leagues to support these. For example, increasing cross-border intel- today is a bill that I have introduced The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ligence sharing, freezing Hizballah assets, pro- that basically breaks down to what we time of the gentleman has expired. hibiting Hizballah fundraising activities, and know is a sue and settlement ban on Because the gentlewoman from Flor- issuing arrest warrants for Hizballah members this part of my bill. There are other ida did not close as expected, the gen- and supporters in Europe would not only send parts that we are going to get to as we tleman from Florida will, without ob- a strong message, but would have a concrete go forward in this. jection, be allowed to reclaim his time. impact inhibiting the ability of Hizballah to op- But I think I want to start off this Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, that is erate with impunity. debate today by simply stating some of very kind, but I am happy to yield to I urge my colleagues to support H. Res. the foundational issues—things that we my friend from Florida, so I yield back 359. come here and talk about many times the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The on the floor of the House have to do The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- question is on the motion offered by with bills and discussions. But one of tlewoman from Florida is now recog- the gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. the things I think that has been very nized to close debate. ROS-LEHTINEN) that the House suspend disturbing for me—and I know many of Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, the rules and agree to the resolution, our colleagues as we have come up with that, I also yield back the balance H. Res. 359, as amended. here—is the disturbing trend of moving of my time. The question was taken; and (two- away from Congress relieving its pow- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support thirds being in the affirmative) the ers and taking ownership of its Article of this measure. rules were suspended and the resolu- I authority, and doing the oversight, Let me thank my good friend and colleague tion, as amended, was agreed to. doing the planning, doing the budg- from Florida, Representative DEUTCH, the A motion to reconsider was laid on eting, and then sort of moving that Ranking Member of the Foreign Affairs Middle the table. more toward the executive branch or East Subcommittee, for bringing forward this f letting the judicial system take re- measure. sponsibility. This measure represents another part of a SUNSHINE FOR REGULATIONS AND And I think one of the things that we good congressional strategy for combatting REGULATORY DECREES AND are starting out with today in these Hezbollah, and that’s rallying support among SETTLEMENTS ACT OF 2017 bills, that we have taken up over the friends and partners . . . making sure that GENERAL LEAVE past 2 days, is a general discussion to around the world everyone sees Hezbollah for Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- move back toward Article I authority, what it is: a terrorist group. er, I ask unanimous consent that all which Congress is doing the legislating This has been a bit of a stumbling block Members may have 5 legislative days and the oversight that it is supposed to with our friends in the European Union. Make to revise and extend their remarks and be, and the executive branch is fol- no mistake: Hezbollah has waged its cam- to include extraneous material on H.R. lowing through in their role of actually paign of violence in Europe over the years, 469. executing the laws that are made, judi- such as 2012, when a Hezbollah terrorist The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. cial, of course, being the interpretive killed five Israelis in Bulgaria. NORMAN). Is there objection to the re- branch. Yet in 2013, the EU announced it would quest of the gentleman from Georgia? What we are seeing in this bill—and consider only the ‘‘military wing’’ of Hezbollah There was no objection. one of the reasons for our sue and set- to be a terrorist organization, drawing a dis- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- tlement legislation, which is my part tinction with the so-called political wing. ant to House Resolution 577 and rule of this bill, and I want to start here, Well, Mr. Speaker, that’s a distinction with- XVIII, the Chair declares the House in and we will continue as we go through out a difference. Hezbollah is a terrorist orga- the Committee of the Whole House on this through the other parts as we go— nization, and that’s all there is to it. The more the state of the Union for the consider- is really a fairness issue. And this is shades of grey clouding this issue, the harder ation of the bill, H.R. 469. not specific to one party in the execu- it’s going to be to work with our EU allies to The Chair appoints the gentleman tive branch. I stated this yesterday. stop Hezbollah’s violent activities. from Tennessee (Mr. DUNCAN) to pre- Sometimes it gets mixed up. But hear So this measure lays out the facts about side over the Committee of the Whole. me clearly: I don’t care the party of Hezbollah’s presence in Europe and the other the resident at 1600 Pennsylvania Ave- groups that have labeled Hezbollah a terrorist b 1621 nue. I do not care who they may be in organization. It commends the work we’re al- IN THE COMMITTEE OF THE WHOLE the sense of what they do in that job. ready doing with our EU allies to push back Accordingly, the House resolved What I want to know is: Are they ful- against Hezbollah. And it says that it’s time for itself into the Committee of the Whole filling the executive branch role and the EU to stop the hairsplitting. It calls on the House on the state of the Union for the not overstepping Congress’ role? EU to designate all of Hezbollah for what it is: consideration of the bill (H.R. 469) to What we have seen over previous ad- a terrorist organization. impose certain limitations on consent ministrations, including the last one I’m glad to support this measure. It sends decrees and settlement agreements by and the previous administration, espe- such an important signal to our friends across agencies that require the agencies to cially under this area of sue and settle- the Atlantic. take regulatory action in accordance ment that increased greatly during the Mr. SCHNEIDER. Mr. Speaker, I rise in with the terms thereof, and for other last administration, was this idea of strong support of H. Res. 359, which I am purposes, with Mr. DUNCAN from Ten- taking a law that we have passed, hav- proud to co-lead and cosponsor with my col- nessee in the chair. ing the regulatory agency’s job to exe- leagues. This important resolution urges the The Clerk read the title of the bill. cute that law; but, at the same point in European Union to designate Hizballah in its The CHAIR. Pursuant to the rule, the time, being sued by a friendly party, or entirety as a terrorist organization. bill is considered read the first time. another party, on a deadline of the bill, There is no distinction between the military The gentleman from Georgia (Mr. or something that they want to, they and political wings of Hizballah. They are part COLLINS) and the gentleman from go into, say, with EPA or another and parcel of the same entity, that is a ter- Rhode Island (Mr. CICILLINE) each will agency, and they discuss this lawsuit. rorist organization that threatens the United control 30 minutes. They come to an agreement, and they

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.072 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8195 file the suit. Many times the suit and cuit review of new regulations. This cies from using settlement policy to the consent were filed on the same day. premise is based on a report by the contravene the law or congressional in- The consent decree—now, look, con- Chamber of Commerce that the so- tent. sent decrees are good judicial tools. called sue and settle process is increas- b 1630 They have been used, and will continue ingly being used as a technique to to be used, even under this bill. But shape agencies’ regulatory agendas. As the majority noted in its report what we don’t want to have happen is This concern, however, is unsupported on a substantially identical version of when the consent decree basically by any independent evidence and has the bill considered last Congress, this comes at the time of the suit, or just been debunked by the GAO. policy is grounded in separation of shortly thereafter, where the party In two reports on deadline suits, the powers concerns. There is no evidence that wants to see a specific agenda GAO has found that, ‘‘the settlement that agencies do not follow this policy, pushed, along with a willing agency, agreements did not affect the sub- and the majority’s witnesses in prior goes to a judge, is able to get that con- stantive basis or procedural rule- hearings on this proposal have been un- sent decree, and then turn around and making requirements,’’ of the agencies able to provide examples of settle- give it to somebody else and say: You it studied. ments that violate the Meese policies. now have to live under this without In its December 2014 report on dead- H.R. 469 is also wasteful and under- any emphasis or any input from the line lawsuits involving the Environ- mines Congress’ powers under Article I other party. mental Protection Agency, the GAO of the Constitution. Congress, not So we are simply saying: Let’s make determined that none of the settle- agencies, establish regulatory prior- this a little fair. You are going to have ments finalized under the Obama ad- ities through statutes. Agencies do not to publicize notice, you are going to ministration ‘‘included terms that fi- have discretion to pick and choose reg- have to actually include others who nalized the substantive outcome of a ulatory priorities where Congress has may have a problem with this consent rule.’’ The GAO underscored this point expressly instructed that certain ac- decree, and you are going to have to do in the title of its report: ‘‘Impact of tions be undertaken by a specific date. it a little more transparently. Deadline Suits on EPA’s Rulemaking is By imposing a series of onerous proce- So we are going to start here today, Limited.’’ dures that will constrain the use of set- Mr. Chairman. We are going to talk In its February 2017 report on dead- tlements to resolve a Federal agency’s about these issues and coming forward. line suits involving the Endangered noncompliance with the law, H.R. 469 We can talk about many other things Species Act, the GAO found that ‘‘the erodes the constitutional function of as the day progresses, but, at the end of settlement agreements did not affect the legislative branch. the day, it is about Congress itself tak- the substantive basis or procedural Finally, the bill is also costly. The ing control of its Article I authority rulemaking requirements the agencies Congressional Budget Office notes that and saying, ‘‘We are going to be the were to follow in completing the ac- this bill greatly lengthens the settle- legislative branch that we are called to tions, such as providing opportunities ment process, costing millions of dol- be,’’ and the executive taking their for public notice and comment on pro- lars and straining the Treasury’s Judg- role and judiciary taking theirs. posed listing rules.’’ ment Fund through increased attor- Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance Leading experts have also debunked ney’s fees. of my time. the Chamber’s sue and settle narrative. In closing, I strongly oppose this Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Chairman, I John Cruden, a senior career official at measure. yield myself such time as I may con- the Justice Department for more than I now yield the balance of my time to sume. two decades during two Republican and the gentleman from Michigan (Mr. Mr. Chairman, I rise in opposition to two Democratic administrations, testi- CONYERS), our ranking member, to con- H.R. 469, an unwarranted and costly in- fied on a substantially identical bill trol. trusion into Congress’ powers under that he was ‘‘not aware of any instance Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Chair, I reserve Article I of the Constitution that will of a settlement that could remotely be the balance of my time. undermine the enforcement of statu- described as collusive, but that the Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Chairman, I tory deadlines. Justice Department vigorously rep- yield myself such time as I may con- When passing laws, Congress rou- resented the Federal agency, defending sume. tinely establishes mandatory deadlines the agency’s legal position, and obtain- Mr. Chairman, our system of govern- for agency action. These statutory ing in any settlement the best possible ment is a tripartite one, with each deadlines serve several purposes. They terms that were consistent with the branch having certain defined func- establish congressional priorities, at- controlling law.’’ tions delegated to it. The Congress is tempt to reduce undue delay in an Other administrative law experts, charged with writing the laws, the agency’s compliance with the law, and such as Robert Weissman, the presi- President with executing the laws, and communicate the importance of a legal dent of Public Citizen, have similarly the judiciary with interpreting them. requirement to the public. But because testified that sue and settlement alle- The Constitution divides powers be- agency resources are limited, there is gations are patently false. tween the branches in this manner in widespread noncompliance with statu- This bill is also unnecessary because order to guard against the abuse of tory deadlines, as the Administrative current law and agency practice al- power by any one branch. The separa- Conference of the United States has ready restrict the use of settlement tion of powers is at the core of the fun- long observed. policy to shape regulatory priorities. damental premise of our constitutional Accordingly, a plaintiff with stand- During its exhaustive review of dead- design that a limited government, di- ing may file a lawsuit to complete a line litigation, the GAO found that the vided into three branches exercising schedule for an agency to complete an Justice Department is guided by the enumerated powers, is necessary to action required by Congress, often re- Meese memo of 1986, when litigating protect individual liberty and the rule ferred to as a ‘‘deadline suit.’’ As the deadline suits. This policy, as the GAO of law. nonpartisan Government Account- noted earlier this year, limits the set- Unfortunately, over the last several ability Office, the GAO, reported ear- tlement of a deadline suit to ‘‘only in- decades, Congress has allowed its pow- lier this year, ‘‘Most deadline suits are clude a commitment to perform a man- ers to gradually be chipped away at by resolved through a negotiated settle- datory action by an agreed upon sched- the other branches. By allowing its ment agreement because, in the major- ule and would not otherwise predeter- powers to be diminished, Congress, es- ity of them, it is undisputed that a mine or prescribe a specific substantive pecially this House, effectively is per- statutory deadline was missed,’’ and outcome for the actions to be committing the people to be deprived of there was no legal defense to the law- pleted by the agencies.’’ their most responsive voice in the Fed- suit. The Meese memo was codified in 1991, eral Government. Through the legisla- But proponents of H.R. 469 assert in the Code of Federal Regulations, and tion before us today and other legisla- that these settlements undercut appli- applies to settlement policy today. The tion that the House has actively pur- cable administrative law and short-cir- Meese policy primarily restricts agen- sued in recent years, we can begin to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.074 H25OCPT1 H8196 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 reestablish and enforce the limits on the lawsuit before court filing dead- posed settlement agreement or consent the authority of the other two lines have expired. In addition, the decree. branches. House of Representatives, unlike the Contrary to the claims of those who Although no package of bills by itself Senate, does not have a statutory right support this measure, the Government can rebuild Congress’ institutional to intervene or file amicus briefs in Accountability Office has found no evi- strength and restore the Constitution’s cases questioning congressional au- dence that these deadline lawsuits are integrity, it is absolutely necessary thority. This legislation ensures that collusive. As the Justice Department, that Congress begin reasserting the both Houses of Congress have adequate which represents most Federal agen- powers that it has ceded to the other time and a right to intervene in litiga- cies, acknowledged earlier this year, branches. This package of bills pro- tion that questions congressional au- these agencies are left with few de- motes the restoration of Congress’ Ar- thority. fenses, if any, to these lawsuits. ticle I powers. We cannot continue to abdicate our I am also concerned that H.R. 469 will The first bill in the package address- powers and responsibilities to the other inevitably generate more litigation es executive branch negotiated regu- branches of government, weakening that will result in millions of dollars of latory decrees and settlements. Over the separation of powers enshrined in additional transactional costs, all of the past several decades, consent de- our Constitution and threatening the which will be borne by you know who— crees and settlement agreements in- very liberty divided powers were de- the American taxpayer. creasingly have been used in Federal signed to protect. For example, the nonpartisan Con- litigation to allow the executive Mr. Chair, I ask my colleagues to gressional Budget Office, in its analysis branch to write new law in ways that support this legislation, and I reserve of the bill’s predecessor from the last give short shrift to the requirements of the balance of my time. Congress, concluded: the Administrative Procedure Act, Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Chairman, I yield The measure would impose millions of dol- Regulatory Flexibility Act, and other myself such time as I may consume. lars in additional costs, most of which would laws by which Congress has prescribed Mr. Chairman, I am very pleased to be incurred because the litigation involving how agencies must conduct rule- be here to support—well, I don’t think consent decrees and settlement agreements would probably take longer under the bill, making. it is going to be support. It is really and agencies would face additional adminis- While the executive does have some more in opposition to this so-called trative requirements. regulatory authority, these settle- Sunshine for Regulations and Regu- That is a quotation. In other words, ments and consent decrees have been latory Decrees and Settlements Act. Title I of this bill is a costly solution, used to aggrandize that authority and Well, why? Well, because it is again, in search of a problem. shift regulatory priorities under the anticonsumer. Now, Title II of the bill isn’t much cloak of judicial authority. This sub- Well, why? Because it is better. For instance, Title II overrides verts the boundaries both the Constitu- antienvironment. the Privacy Act to require publication tion and Congress have placed on ad- Well, why? Because it is antiprivacy. of sensitive personal information of ministrative authority. Not surprisingly, a broad consortium victims of government abuse or unlaw- The Sunshine for Regulations and of more than 150 organizations strenu- ful conduct, which raises serious pri- Regulatory Decrees and Settlements ously oppose this bill, including some vacy concerns. Act limits the ability of the executive of our best nonprofits: the National Re- Although proponents of this measure branch to collude with plaintiffs to sources Defense Council, for example; argue it will increase government abuse consent decrees and settlement the Sierra Club, for another example; transparency, its real effect will be to agreements in a manner that allows Public Citizen; and a lot of labor orga- force the Treasury Department to pub- the executive to thwart laws written nizations and other groups. lish, on the Internet, the names of indi- by Congress and increases the power of Title I of this bill, for example, has vidual victims of government mis- the judiciary beyond its constitutional one goal: it is to discourage the use of conduct compensated for their claims limits. settlement agreements and consent de- by the Judgment Fund, including vic- The second bill in the package, the crees that compel agencies to follow tims of race and sex discrimination, Judgment Fund Transparency Act, in- the law. and so, in effect, revictimizing victims creases transparency over Federal When enacting new statutes, Con- harmed by the Federal Government. spending by requiring the Treasury De- gress routinely establishes deadlines Finally, Title III would facilitate the partment to publish data on settle- for agency action, particularly when it ability of the House majority to inter- ments and court-offered judgments en- involves urgent public health and safe- vene in pending cases where the Jus- tered against the Federal Government. ty concerns. When agencies fail to tice Department has already deter- One of Congress’ core powers is the meet these deadlines, a party with mined that it will not defend the con- authority to authorize and appropriate standing may file a lawsuit under sec- stitutionality of a Federal law. money from the Treasury. In order to tion 7 of the Administrative Procedure Not only do these provisions raise properly exercise this power, Congress Act to ensure that the agency performs possible separation of powers concerns, needs to know how the bill it has ap- this mandatory, nondiscretionary it is unclear why they are even needed. propriated is being spent. duty. By delaying the enforcement of This measure has not ever been the This bill will allow Congress to bet- statutory deadlines, the bill, however, subject of a single hearing or markup ter scrutinize and understand where jeopardizes public health and safety, by the Judiciary Committee of the Federal taxpayer dollars are going. which explains why the previous House of Representatives. As a result, Only through the transparency this bill Obama administration issued a veto there has not been any opportunity to provides can Congress make the execu- threat to similar legislation considered consider these critical issues and to tive and the judiciary more account- only last Congress. analyze the ramifications presented by able for the money that comes out of Title I imposes nearly impossible Title III. the Judgment Fund. hurdles for agencies seeking to resolve For all of these reasons, I must, ac- The final bill in the package, the Ar- the deadline lawsuits and gives oppo- cordingly, urge my colleagues to op- ticle I Amicus and Intervention Act, nents of regulation multiple opportuni- pose H.R. 469. makes clear Congress’ ability to defend ties to stifle agency regulatory actions. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance and assert its institutional interests in With respect to consent decrees con- of my time. litigation that puts the powers and re- cerning a rulemaking, an agency would Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- sponsibilities of Congress into ques- be forced to go through two public man, I appreciate the comments, espe- tion. comment periods—one for the consent cially of my friend from Rhode Island. Currently, when the executive branch decree, and one for the rulemaking I would agree in principle with the declines to pursue litigation in defense that results from the consent decree— Meese amendment as well. The prob- of an act of Congress, it is not required doubling the agency’s effort. In addi- lem is that, through the Clinton ad- to give Congress notice sufficient to tion, it would allow any affected party ministration and through preceding ad- allow the House or Senate to defend to intervene in opposition to a pro- ministrations, it has been watered

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.076 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8197 down. I would actually go back to that. not know the full implications of the That, of course, is the true purpose of The problem is lack of transparency measure. If it is a worthy proposal, we this bill. They seek to tie government and the lack of a coherent voice here as should take the time to consider it in agencies up in years of litigation so we go further, but I do appreciate the committee before moving forward. that they are unable to issue rules pro- comments. Title II of the legislation, the Judg- tecting public health and safety. The Mr. Chair, I yield 2 minutes to the ment Fund Transparency Act, would real conspiracy here is the Republican gentleman from South Carolina (Mr. require additional reporting about the plot to destroy the regulatory state. NORMAN). funds paid out of the Treasury Depart- With one hand, we defund the agencies; Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Chair, I rise today ment’s Judgment Fund by the United and with the other hand, we build all in overwhelming and adamant support States Government to resolve legal sorts of hurdles in the regulatory proc- of H.R. 469, the Sunshine for Regula- claims against it. This legislation ess so that the agencies have no ability tions and Regulatory Decrees and Set- raises significant privacy concerns. It to complete their work. tlements Act, which will strengthen would require publishing sensitive, per- It is a shameful effort that may save Article I powers for Congress. sonally identifying information about big businesses some money and regu- Let me begin by briefly quoting Arti- individual claimants who are the vic- latory compliance, but it will cost our cle I, Section 8 of our Constitution, the tims of government misconduct, such citizens their health, their safety, and Necessary and Proper Clause: ‘‘The as medical malpractice, racial dis- possibly their lives. Congress shall have the power . . . to crimination, or sexual harassment. Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues make all laws which shall be necessary Our laws should carefully balance the to oppose this terrible legislation. and proper for carrying into execution need for public disclosure of govern- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- the foregoing powers . . . in the gov- ment spending with the need to protect man, I don’t believe, as was just stated, ernment,’’ meaning, Congress must the personal privacy of individual citi- that there is a nefarious plot here. It is continue to respect and reinforce the zens. This bill upsets that balance. to get government doing the regulation idea of the separation of powers in our By far, the most concerning aspect of it should with transparency—and that government, but, at the same time, this legislation is Title I, the Sunshine is what needs to be done—and have Congress can ultimately decide when, for Regulations and Regulatory De- Congress do what it should be doing, whether, and how to legislate the pow- crees and Settlements Act. and that is writing laws and having the ers and authority of another branch of This provision also poses as a trans- regulatory process start from here. government. parency measure, but its real aim is to That is simply what we are looking at. disrupt and delay the process for If that is too much, I understand. b 1645 issuing rules that protect public health Mr. Chairman, I yield 5 minutes to Mr. Chairman, this piece of legisla- and safety. the gentleman from Utah (Mr. STEW- tion will go a long way in fortifying Congress frequently sets a statutory ART). the balance of powers and reestab- deadline for an agency to complete a Mr. STEWART. Mr. Chairman, I lishing Congress’ authority set forth by rulemaking, but the agency sometimes would like to thank Mr. COLLINS and James Madison and our Founding Fa- misses that deadline. Under current Chairman GOODLATTE for their work. thers and Article I of the United States law, private parties can sue the agency Mr. Chairman, I have to say, in lis- Constitution. to meet its statutory obligations. tening to this debate, I can’t imagine Furthermore, we must be sure to use Since there is little dispute that the why anyone would oppose this legisla- our constitutional authority to effec- agency has failed to do its duty, these tion that is entirely designed to create tively guarantee and ensure that gov- lawsuits often end up settling, with the transparency. This is good work that ernment is more efficient, transparent, agency agreeing to a new schedule in Chairman GOODLATTE and Mr. COLLINS and accountable to all American citi- which to complete the required rule- have worked on. zens of our great Nation, and this bill making. That is perfectly reasonable. Last week we heard a number of will do just that. However, the Republican majority shocking stories about government It is time for Congress to establish and the businesses that are the subject malfeasance, such as Chairman GOOD- procedures for honest regulations, of such regulation believe these law- LATTE’s investigation that the govern- transparency within the Treasury De- suits have some nefarious purpose. ment had settled and revealed that the partment, and judicial intervention in They have concocted an imagined vast Obama Justice Department had fun- unconstitutional court cases. conspiracy by which private parties neled money to politically allied Mr. Chairman, again, I rise in full collude with the government to file a groups. We are grateful for that. support of H.R. 469, and I urge all of my lawsuit, and the government happily Today we are taking up H.R. 469, and colleagues on both sides of the aisle either settles or enters into a consent I am thrilled that this legislation in- and in both Chambers to make sure decree, supposedly allowing it to im- cludes the text of my bill, the Judg- this is a government not only of the pose obligations or rules beyond what ment Fund Transparency Act. people, but for the people. it could otherwise do. As I said, the purpose of this act is Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Chairman, I Unfortunately for supporters of this really very simple. Actually, contrary yield 4 minutes to the distinguished bill, there is no evidence of such a con- to what has been said, it is to bring gentleman from New York (Mr. NAD- spiracy and no evidence, in fact, of any simplicity, it is to bring transparency. LER). problem. To solve this nonexistent This bill would go a long way to pro- Mr. NADLER. Mr. Chairman, I rise in problem, this bill adds numerous proce- viding our constituents and taxpayers strong opposition to H.R. 469, the dural requirements before a settlement a better idea of how their tax dollars newly renamed Congressional Article I or consent degree can be entered into. are spent. Power Strengthening Act. The effect of these requirements Heaven knows, and for heaven’s sake, This bill stitches together three un- would be to make any settlements or those of us here certainly know that related bills, each one problematic in consent decrees more difficult and sometimes the Federal Government its own way. more time-consuming to enter into, makes mistakes. It is not perfect. It is Title III of the bill, the Article I with the predictable result that agen- prone to errors and it can cause harm Amicus and Intervention Act, would cies will not even bother to enter into to individuals. And when that happens, permit as a right the House to inter- them at all. especially when these errors are par- vene as a party where an amicus in a Most troubling, the bill would create ticularly egregious, the government is lawsuit with the Department of Justice a special and more permissive rule for sued and damages can be awarded. declines to defend the constitu- virtually any party to involve itself in Early on, in fact, this Congress spent tionality of a law or regulation. the case as an intervener. These a lot of its time doing nothing but While this proposal may have some interveners would do their best to ruin, that, sorting through claims and mak- merit, it was introduced only last block, or delay any settlement, including appropriations to pay those claims. week. It was the subject of no hearing. ing during what should be private ne- In fact, not even 100 years ago, much of It has had no markup. We simply do gotiations. this body’s work was consumed only by

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.077 H25OCPT1 H8198 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 this topic. It wasn’t until 1956 that Finally, we received testimony ear- These terrorist organizations only Congress established the Judgment lier this year from Attorney General seek to commit serious harm or poten- Fund and gave authority to the Treas- Jeff Sessions’ Justice Department that tial targets, of course, including Amer- ury Department to resolve these claims current agency policy, which was codi- icans, and I believe this prohibition is in ‘‘a permanent and indefinite appro- fied in 1991, prohibits circumventing warranted to be included in this impor- priation.’’ That has simply been the rulemaking process through dead- tant legislation. abused. line lawsuits. We have heard similar Let me be clear. We should all agree In keeping with the law, the Treas- testimony from career Justice Depart- that not a cent of taxpayer dollars ury Department files a yearly report ment officials in prior administrations. should ever go to a state sponsor of ter- with Congress and maintains a web I ask the question: How is H.R. 469 rorism or foreign terrorist organiza- page that supposedly can be searched. necessary in light of this complete lack tions. A recent illustration of the need That sounds good, but it doesn’t work of support for this so-called sue and for this ban on funding to state spon- that way. It is cryptic and has other- settle phenomenon and the presence of sors of terrorism is what we now know wise limited information related to controls against this from happening in about the previous administration. each payout that has made the data al- the first instance? They paid $1.3 billion from the Judg- most entirely worthless. There is no in- Mr. Chair, again, there is just no evi- ment Fund to the nation of Iran in a formation on what the government did. dence to support the necessity for this. settlement dating back over 30 years. There is no information on the claim- I think it has been articulated very Although all the information sur- ant. We are all familiar with, for exam- well by my colleagues what the dan- rounding this payment was never made ple, when the previous administration gers are of moving forward with this clear to the public, Iran still remains a took $1.3 billion out of the fund and legislation. state sponsor of terrorism, the most converted it to cash and delivered it to Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of notorious one. Iran. my time. Mr. Chair, again, I strongly support Four years ago, The New York Times Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- H.R. 469. We must never allow taxpayer reported what was likely an illegal bil- man, I yield 4 minutes to the gen- dollars to be given to violent rogue na- lion-dollar payout to farmers who had tleman from Louisiana (Mr. JOHNSON), tions that support terrorists or, obvi- never even sued the government. This a member of the Judiciary Committee. ously, terrorist organizations, and this isn’t just unacceptable, it is crazy. It is Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. Mr. will ensure a constitutional check on horrible government. It is what leads Chairman, I rise today to speak in the Judgment Fund. This is about Arti- people to distrust the Federal Govern- favor of H.R. 469, the Sunshine for Reg- cle I, the authority of this body. For ment. ulations and Regulatory Decrees and that reason, Mr. Chairman, I strongly It would require the Treasury to Settlements Act. support it, and I encourage our col- make payment out of this fund public, This is an important piece of legisla- leagues to do the same. and it would include very simple things tion because, as has been noted here, it Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Chairman, I that common sense would simply de- seeks to increase accountability on the yield myself the balance of my time. mand. regulatory process by providing greater Mr. Chairman, I just want to say I This bill would name the agency. It scrutiny of sue and settle cases. Yes, would name the name of the plaintiff am baffled by the gentleman from Lou- they do exist. isiana’s assertion that this legislation and the amount that they were paid, It requires the Department of Justice then a brief description of the facts improves accountability. It is very to release details of payments made hard to imagine how undermining the around that claim. through the Judgment Fund, and it Mr. Chairman, I will conclude by just enforcement of duly enacted legisla- strengthens Congress’ ability to inter- saying the Judgment Fund Trans- tion by Congress of the United States vene on litigation regarding the con- parency Act may not prevent bad deci- improves accountability. sions by all government employees, but stitutionality of congressional stat- This is like the upsidedown world. it will shine a light on decisions to the utes. How does that improve accountability, This legislation also includes H.R. American people. It is about helping to making it more difficult to enforce the increase trust between the American 1096, the Judgment Fund Transparency laws passed by Congress of the United people and government, a government Act, which I am proud to cosponsor. States? that we have given them reason not to That piece of legislation includes an Mr. Chairman, I just want to say in trust. Let’s bring in accountability and amendment I offered, which would re- closing that it is very important to transparency to that. quire the Secretary of the Treasury to note that my opposition to H.R. 469 is Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues clearly display the total expenditures, joined by a very broad spectrum of or- to support this bill and the language including the attorney’s fees, interest, ganizations, including the American found within this bill. and all other payments made from the Federation of Labor and Congress of Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Chairman, I Judgment Fund on an annual basis. Industrial Organizations, or AFL–CIO; yield myself such time as I may con- Hardworking taxpayers deserve to the American Federation of State, sume. know where their tax dollars are being County, and Municipal Employees; I just want to again remind folks spent, and Congress must ensure that Public Citizen; Consumer Federation of that, during the course of this argu- programs like the Judgment Fund are America; the National Consumer Law ment, we have heard this narrative following the law. The American peo- Center; the Natural Resources Defense about the problems with the sue and ple must be allowed every available Council; the Sierra Club; Earthjustice; settle, as Mr. NADLER described it, an tool to keep their government account- and People for the American Way; imagined, concocted vast conspiracy, able, and this will be an important among many others. but without any evidence that it actu- tool. Mr. Chairman, I think that is com- ally exists, a solution in search of a Also, it would ensure a terrorist or- pany, which should suggest to my col- problem. ganization is prohibited from receiving leagues that this legislation does not Just to remind folks, there were two any taxpayer funds from the Judgment benefit the American people, it will un- reports done by the GAO—I have them Fund by prohibiting any foreign ter- dermine the actions of Congress. in my hand; they are thick—that, in rorist organization, as defined in sec- Mr. Chairman, I urge everyone to fact, undermine the suggestion that tion 219 of the Immigration and Na- vote ‘‘no,’’ and I yield back the balance there is any such problem. tionality Act. of my time. In response to requests from the Re- That statute clearly classifies a ter- publican committee chairs, the Gov- rorist organization as those who ‘‘en- b 1700 ernment Accountability Office has gage in terrorist activity or terrorism, Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- twice concluded that agencies cannot and the organization threatens the seman, I yield myself such time as I may and do not circumvent the rulemaking curity of the United States nationals consume. system through settlements relating to or the national security of the United In closing, I just want to say that statutory deadlines. States.’’ this is not just something that has

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.079 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8199 been dreamed up, as far as from a bill steps for courts and parties relating to such of federal law; which will harm plaintiff cor- perspective. And they can point to consent decrees and settlements that would porations, state and local governments, non- studies that say this may or may not favor continued litigation over settlement. profit groups, and individuals alike, when their be a part, but even the outside organi- H.R. 469 establishes a prolonged process of interests have been harmed by illegal federal zation, the Environmental Council of publication, intervention, and court-supervised agency actions or inactions. the States, sent a letter and basically mediation for these types of settlements. Consent decrees and settlement agree- did a resolution that said there is a This prolonged process would waste judi- ments are simple, streamlined ways to hold need to reform State participation in cial, individuals, and local governments’ re- federal agencies accountable when they ig- EPA consent decrees which settled sources, while wealthy corporations are em- nore Congress by failing to commit congres- through citizen lawsuits. I mean, this powered to perpetuate violations of federal sionally mandated actions by a date estab- is an issue because there is not the rules. lished in statute. transparency that is needed. That is Such hurdles to settlements conflict directly H.R. 469 is a sad attempt to eliminate vital why these bills are here. with the expressly stated and longstanding and broadly supported protections that have I would just like to remind everyone policy of the federal judiciary system to favor improved and saved millions of American why we are considering this bill today, compromise and the settlement of disputes in lives. going back to where we first started, order to make the best use of limited re- By providing opportunities for industry to and why the House passed the Stop sources. subvert or delay the process of redressing in- Settlement Slush Funds Act and the Proponents of this legislation argue that jured groups, H.R. 469 effectively makes it Congressional Subpoena Compliance agencies and interest groups collude to ‘‘sue more expensive for agencies to do what Con- and Enforcement Act earlier this week: and settle’’ to avoid compliance with the progress has mandated, that is to protect the to help restore and reinforce the pow- cedures set forth in the Administrative Proce- American people and redress any harm to ers the people gave Congress in Article dure Act. their livelihood. I of the Constitution. These allegations are unfounded in fact. Some of the unwholesomeness of this bill Restoring and reinforcing these pow- The consent decrees and settlement agree- could have been mitigated had the Jackson ers is not some academic issue; this is ments at issue do not determine the sub- Lee amendment to H.R. 469 been made in something that we practice every day. stance of agency rules. order. It goes back to as early as our elemen- Rather, such agreements simply seek to en- The Jackson Lee amendment would have tary school days dealing with our sim- force mandatory statutory and procedural du- excepted consent decrees or settlement ple civics, saying this is the way our ties (such as deadlines enacted by Congress). agreements that pertain to a reduction in ill- government is set up. In fact, a December 2014 Government Ac- ness or death from exposure to toxic sub- I have said this before, Mr. Chair- countability Office report surveyed settlements stances in communities that are protected by man, from this podium, and I will say over deadlines for major U.S. Environmental Executive Order 12898. it again. If the people in agencies down Protection Act rulemakings and found that the Executive Order 12898 directs federal agen- the street would like to make law, then settlements did not influence the substantive cies to identify and address the disproportion- I encourage them to leave their job, results. ately high and adverse human health and en- run for Congress, and come up here and Furthermore, all public notice and comment vironmental effects of agency action on minor- make law. This is not their job to do it requirements of the Administrative Procedure ity and low-income populations. from a cubicle down the street through Act and the individual laws at issue still apply It is impossible to understand why even a lawsuit. We need to do it up here, as when an agency undertakes the substantive conservative Republicans would back legisla- it should be properly done. action for which a deadline was missed. tion that hinders enforcement of the law, re- So, for far too long, Congress has Parties and non-parties alike are provided quires agencies to waste money in court on been giving away its power. We want to with numerous opportunities to provide input in cases they believe they cannot win, and would see that change. We are going to see advance of the rules being finalized. stymie industry and state settlements along H.R. 469 undermines protections for the that. That is why this bill is here. And with all others. although this bill alone is certainly not American people, masqueraded as a measure I urge all members to vote against H.R. 469 a silver bullet for restoring the power to prevent undocumented and unfounded alle- and reject this harmful legislation. the Congress has ceded, just as powers gations of ‘‘sue and settle’’ collusion between The Acting CHAIR (Mr. MITCHELL). are gradually lost over time, they will public interest plaintiffs and sympathetic fed- All time for general debate has expired. be regained by Congress gradually re- eral agencies entering into consent decrees Pursuant to the rule, the bill shall be asserting itself. and settlements. considered for amendment under the 5- I ask my colleagues to join me in In fact, H.R. 469 favors industry interests at minute rule. support of this legislation to reassert taxpayer expense and promotes regulatory un- It shall be in order to consider as an congressional authority and to ensure certainty by making it virtually impossible to original bill for the purpose of amend- that individual liberty protected by the actually enter into consent decrees and settlement under the 5-minute rule an powers of separation of powers between ments that avoid the costly and time con- amendment in the nature of a sub- the branches is maintained. suming alternative of litigation. stitute consisting of the text of Rules Mr. Chairman, I yield back the bal- But its most serious flaw is that H.R. 469 is Committee Print 115–34. That amend- ance of my time. really a back door way to derail the rule- ment in the nature of a substitute shall Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to making process and undermine federal law, be considered as read. express my strong opposition to H.R. 469 the shifting limited agency resources away from The text of the amendment in the na- ‘‘Sunshine for Regulatory Decrees and Settle- the implementation of health and safety pro- ture of a substitute is as follows: ments Act’’ of 2017. tections for the very people that we are sup- H.R. 469 H.R. 469 is yet another attempt to under- posed to be representing. Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- mine the ability of Federal regulators to protect What this bill truly targets are the legal resentatives of the United States of America in the health and safety of Americans. rights of citizens to hold government account- Congress assembled, This ill-conceived bill imposes numerous able by enforcing laws designed to protect SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. new procedural burdens on agencies and health, safety, and the environment, obliga- (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as courts intended to dissuade them from using tions that the supporters of this bill would pre- the ‘‘Congressional Article I Powers Strength- consent decrees and settlement agreements fer to remain unenforced. ening Act’’. to resolve enforcement actions filed to address A broad coalition of more than 150 civil (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of contents of this Act is as follows: agency noncompliance with the law. rights, environmental, consumer protection H.R. 469 targets consent decrees and set- and other public interest groups opposed the Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. tlement agreements involving congressionally bill in the last Congress. TITLE I—SUNSHINE FOR REGULATIONS mandated federal agency actions. On Monday, October 23, 2017, I received a AND REGULATORY DECREES AND SET- These agency actions in many instances letter signed by 86 environmental protection TLEMENTS and civil rights groups urging me to oppose Sec. 101. Short title. have the purpose of protecting civil rights, Sec. 102. Definitions. health, safety, and the environment. this bill. Sec. 103. Consent decree and settlement reform. H.R. 469 prescribes a host of burden- A bill that attempts to give third parties the Sec. 104. Motions to modify consent decrees. some—and, in some cases, ambiguous— power to obstruct and delay the enforcement Sec. 105. Effective date.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 6343 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.081 H25OCPT1 H8200 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 TITLE II—JUDGMENT FUND person, the court shall presume, subject to re- hold a public hearing regarding whether to TRANSPARENCY buttal, that the interests of the person would enter into a proposed covered consent decree or Sec. 201. Short title. not be represented adequately by the existing settlement agreement. Sec. 202. Judgment fund transparency. parties to the action. (B) RECORD.—If an agency holds a public (2) STATE, LOCAL, AND TRIBAL GOVERN- hearing under subparagraph (A)— TITLE III—ARTICLE I AMICUS AND MENTS.—In considering a motion to intervene in (i) the agency shall— INTERVENTION a covered civil action or a civil action in which (I) submit to the court a summary of the pro- Sec. 301. Short title. a covered consent decree or settlement agree- ceedings; Sec. 302. Congressional intervention as of right. ment has been proposed that is filed by a State, (II) submit to the court a certified index of the Sec. 303. Intervention and amicus authority for local, or tribal government, the court shall take hearing record; and house of representatives. due account of whether the movant— (III) provide access to the hearing record to TITLE I—SUNSHINE FOR REGULATIONS (A) administers jointly with an agency that is the court; and AND REGULATORY DECREES AND SET- a defendant in the action the statutory provi- (ii) the full hearing record shall be included in TLEMENTS sions that give rise to the regulatory action to the court record. (4) MANDATORY DEADLINES.—If a proposed which the action relates; or SEC. 101. SHORT TITLE. covered consent decree or settlement agreement This title may be cited as the ‘‘Sunshine for (B) administers an authority under State, local, or tribal law that would be preempted by requires an agency action by a date certain, the Regulations and Regulatory Decrees and Settle- agency shall, when moving for entry of the cov- ments Act of 2017’’. the regulatory action to which the action relates. ered consent decree or settlement agreement or SEC. 102. DEFINITIONS. (c) SETTLEMENT NEGOTIATIONS.—Efforts to dismissal based on the covered consent decree or In this title— settle a covered civil action or otherwise reach settlement agreement, inform the court of— (A) any required regulatory action the agency (1) the terms ‘‘agency’’ and ‘‘agency action’’ an agreement on a covered consent decree or has not taken that the covered consent decree or have the meanings given those terms under sec- settlement agreement shall— tion 551 of title 5, United States Code; (1) be conducted pursuant to the mediation or settlement agreement does not address; (B) how the covered consent decree or settle- (2) the term ‘‘covered civil action’’ means a alternative dispute resolution program of the ment agreement, if approved, would affect the civil action— court or by a district judge other than the pre- discharge of the duties described in subpara- (A) seeking to compel agency action; siding judge, magistrate judge, or special mas- graph (A); and (B) alleging that the agency is unlawfully ter, as determined appropriate by the presiding (C) why the effects of the covered consent de- withholding or unreasonably delaying an agen- judge; and cree or settlement agreement on the manner in cy action relating to a regulatory action that (2) include any party that intervenes in the which the agency discharges its duties is in the would affect the rights of— action. public interest. (i) private persons other than the person (d) PUBLICATION OF AND COMMENT ON COV- (e) SUBMISSION BY THE GOVERNMENT.— bringing the action; or ERED CONSENT DECREES OR SETTLEMENT AGREE- (ii) a State, local, or tribal government; and (1) IN GENERAL.—For any proposed covered MENTS.— consent decree or settlement agreement that con- (C) brought under— (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 60 days before (i) chapter 7 of title 5, United States Code; or tains a term described in paragraph (2), the At- the date on which a covered consent decree or torney General or, if the matter is being litigated (ii) any other statute authorizing such an ac- settlement agreement is filed with a court, the tion; independently by an agency, the head of the agency seeking to enter the covered consent de- agency shall submit to the court a certification (3) the term ‘‘covered consent decree’’ means— cree or settlement agreement shall publish in the (A) a consent decree entered into in a covered that the Attorney General or head of the agency Federal Register and online— approves the proposed covered consent decree or civil action; and (A) the proposed covered consent decree or settlement agreement. The Attorney General or (B) any other consent decree that requires settlement agreement; and head of the agency shall personally sign any agency action relating to a regulatory action (B) a statement providing— certification submitted under this paragraph. that affects the rights of— (i) the statutory basis for the covered consent (i) private persons other than the person (2) TERMS.—A term described in this para- decree or settlement agreement; and graph is— bringing the action; or (ii) a description of the terms of the covered (ii) a State, local, or tribal government; (A) in the case of a covered consent decree, a consent decree or settlement agreement, includ- term that— (4) the term ‘‘covered consent decree or settle- ing whether it provides for the award of attor- ment agreement’’ means a covered consent de- (i) converts into a nondiscretionary duty a neys’ fees or costs and, if so, the basis for in- discretionary authority of an agency to propose, cree and a covered settlement agreement; and cluding the award. (5) the term ‘‘covered settlement agreement’’ promulgate, revise, or amend regulations; (2) PUBLIC COMMENT.— (ii) commits an agency to expend funds that means— (A) IN GENERAL.—An agency seeking to enter (A) a settlement agreement entered into in a have not been appropriated and that have not a covered consent decree or settlement agree- been budgeted for the regulatory action in ques- covered civil action; and ment shall accept public comment during the pe- (B) any other settlement agreement that re- tion; riod described in paragraph (1) on any issue re- (iii) commits an agency to seek a particular quires agency action relating to a regulatory ac- lating to the matters alleged in the complaint in appropriation or budget authorization; tion that affects the rights of— the applicable civil action or addressed or af- (iv) divests an agency of discretion committed (i) private persons other than the person fected by the proposed covered consent decree or to the agency by statute or the Constitution of bringing the action; or settlement agreement. the United States, without regard to whether (ii) a State, local, or tribal government. (B) RESPONSE TO COMMENTS.—An agency the discretion was granted to respond to chang- SEC. 103. CONSENT DECREE AND SETTLEMENT shall respond to any comment received under ing circumstances, to make policy or managerial REFORM. subparagraph (A). choices, or to protect the rights of third parties; (a) PLEADINGS AND PRELIMINARY MATTERS.— (C) SUBMISSIONS TO COURT.—When moving or (1) IN GENERAL.—In any covered civil action, that the court enter a proposed covered consent (v) otherwise affords relief that the court the agency against which the covered civil ac- decree or settlement agreement or for dismissal could not enter under its own authority upon a tion is brought shall publish the notice of intent pursuant to a proposed covered consent decree final judgment in the civil action; or to sue and the complaint in a readily accessible or settlement agreement, an agency shall— (B) in the case of a covered settlement agree- manner, including by making the notice of in- (i) inform the court of the statutory basis for ment, a term— tent to sue and the complaint available online the proposed covered consent decree or settle- (i) that provides a remedy for a failure by the not later than 15 days after receiving service of ment agreement and its terms; agency to comply with the terms of the covered the notice of intent to sue or complaint, respec- (ii) submit to the court a summary of the com- settlement agreement other than the revival of tively. ments received under subparagraph (A) and the the civil action resolved by the covered settle- (2) ENTRY OF A COVERED CONSENT DECREE OR response of the agency to the comments; ment agreement; and SETTLEMENT AGREEMENT.—A party may not (iii) submit to the court a certified index of the (ii) that— make a motion for entry of a covered consent administrative record of the notice and comment (I) interferes with the authority of an agency decree or to dismiss a civil action pursuant to a proceeding; and to revise, amend, or issue rules under the proce- covered settlement agreement until after the end (iv) make the administrative record described dures set forth in chapter 5 of title 5, United of proceedings in accordance with paragraph (1) in clause (iii) fully accessible to the court. States Code, or any other statute or Executive and subparagraphs (A) and (B) of paragraph (D) INCLUSION IN RECORD.—The court shall in- order prescribing rulemaking procedures for a (2) of subsection (d) or subsection (d)(3)(A), clude in the court record for a civil action the rulemaking that is the subject of the covered set- whichever is later. certified index of the administrative record sub- tlement agreement; (b) INTERVENTION.— mitted by an agency under subparagraph (II) commits the agency to expend funds that (1) REBUTTABLE PRESUMPTION.—In consid- (C)(iii) and any documents listed in the index have not been appropriated and that have not ering a motion to intervene in a covered civil ac- which any party or amicus curiae appearing be- been budgeted for the regulatory action in question or a civil action in which a covered consent fore the court in the action submits to the court. tion; or decree or settlement agreement has been pro- (3) PUBLIC HEARINGS PERMITTED.— (III) for such a covered settlement agreement posed that is filed by a person who alleges that (A) IN GENERAL.—After providing notice in the that commits the agency to exercise in a par- the agency action in dispute would affect the Federal Register and online, an agency may ticular way discretion which was committed to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.041 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8201 the agency by statute or the Constitution of the lowing information with regard to that pay- ‘‘(B) later than 21 days before any applicable United States to respond to changing cir- ment: deadline for filing any pleading necessary— cumstances, to make policy or managerial ‘‘(A) The name of the specific agency or entity ‘‘(i) to defend or assert the constitutionality of choices, or to protect the rights of third parties. whose actions gave rise to the claim or judg- the provision at issue; or (f) REVIEW BY COURT.— ment. ‘‘(ii) to request review of any judicial, admin- (1) AMICUS.—A court considering a proposed ‘‘(B) The name of the plaintiff or claimant. istrative, or other determination adversely af- covered consent decree or settlement agreement ‘‘(C) The name of counsel for the plaintiff or fecting the constitutionality of such provision;’’. shall presume, subject to rebuttal, that it is claimant. (b) INTERVENTION AS OF RIGHT.—Section 530D proper to allow amicus participation relating to ‘‘(D) The amount paid representing principal of title 28, United States Code, is amended by the covered consent decree or settlement agree- liability, and any amounts paid representing adding at the end the following: ment by any person who filed public comments any ancillary liability, including attorney fees, ‘‘(f) INTERVENTION AS OF RIGHT.—The Senate or participated in a public hearing on the cov- costs, and interest. or House of Representatives may intervene as of ered consent decree or settlement agreement ‘‘(E) A brief description of the facts that gave right in any proceeding referenced in subsection under paragraph (2) or (3) of subsection (d). rise to the claim. (a)(1)(B) in order to defend or assert the con- (2) REVIEW OF DEADLINES.— ‘‘(F) The name of the agency that submitted stitutionality of any provision of any Federal (A) PROPOSED COVERED CONSENT DECREES.— the claim. statute, rule, regulation, program, policy, or For a proposed covered consent decree, a court ‘‘(G) Any information available on reports other law, or to appeal or request review of any shall not approve the covered consent decree generated by the Judgment Fund Payment judicial, administrative, or other determination unless the proposed covered consent decree al- Search administered by the Treasury Depart- adversely affecting the constitutionality of any lows sufficient time and incorporates adequate ment. such provision. Notwithstanding any otherwise ‘‘(2) In addition to the information described procedures for the agency to comply with chap- applicable time limits or other provisions of law in paragraph (1), if a payment under this sec- ter 5 of title 5, United States Code, and other to the contrary, if such intervention is filed not tion is made to a foreign state on or after Janu- applicable statutes that govern rulemaking and, later than 21 days after receipt of the notice re- ary 1, 2016, the Secretary of the Treasury shall unless contrary to the public interest, the provi- quired by this section the intervention shall be make available to the public in accordance with sions of any Executive order that governs rule- deemed timely and shall preserve the right of the paragraph (1), the following information with making. Senate or House of Representatives to advance regard to that payment: (B) PROPOSED COVERED SETTLEMENT AGREE- any applicable legal arguments in favor of the ‘‘(A) A description of the method of payment. MENTS.—For a proposed covered settlement constitutionality of any such provision.’’. ‘‘(B) A description of the currency denomina- SEC. 303. INTERVENTION AND AMICUS AUTHOR- agreement, a court shall ensure that the covered tions used for the payment. settlement agreement allows sufficient time and ITY FOR HOUSE OF REPRESENTA- ‘‘(C) The name and location of each financial TIVES. incorporates adequate procedures for the agency institution owned or controlled, directly or indi- Section 101 of the Legislative Branch Appro- to comply with chapter 5 of title 5, United States rectly, by a foreign state or an agent of a for- priations Act, 2000 (2 U.S.C. 5571), is amended— Code, and other applicable statutes that govern eign state through which the payment passed or (1) by striking subsection (d); and rulemaking and, unless contrary to the public from which the payment was withdrawn, in- (2) by inserting after subsection (b) the fol- interest, the provisions of any Executive order cluding any financial institution owned or con- lowing (and redesignating succeeding sub- that governs rulemaking. trolled, directly or indirectly, by a foreign state sections accordingly): (g) ANNUAL REPORTS.—Each agency shall sub- or an agent of a foreign state that is holding the ‘‘(c) HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES INTERVEN- mit to Congress an annual report that, for the payment as of the date on which the informa- TION AND AMICUS AUTHORITY.— year covered by the report, includes— tion is made available. ‘‘(1) ACTIONS OR PROCEEDINGS.—When di- (1) the number, identity, and content of cov- ‘‘(3) Not later than January 1, 2018, and an- rected to do so in accordance with the Rules of ered civil actions brought against and covered nually thereafter, the Secretary of the Treasury the House of Representatives, the General Coun- consent decrees or settlement agreements entered shall make available to the public on the website sel of the House of Representatives shall inter- against or into by the agency; and described in paragraph (1)— vene or appear as amicus curiae in the name of (2) a description of the statutory basis for— ‘‘(A) the total amount paid under this section the House, or in the name of an officer, com- (A) each covered consent decree or settlement during the year preceding the date of the report; mittee, subcommittee, or chair of a committee or agreement entered against or into by the agen- and subcommittee of the House, or other entity of cy; and ‘‘(B) the amount paid under this section dur- the House, in any legal action or proceeding (B) any award of attorneys fees or costs in a ing the year preceding the date of the report— pending in any court of the United States or of civil action resolved by a covered consent decree ‘‘(i) for attorney fees; a State or political subdivision thereof. or settlement agreement entered against or into ‘‘(ii) for interest; and ‘‘(2) INTERVENTION OR APPEARANCE AS OF by the agency. ‘‘(iii) for all other payments. RIGHT.—Intervention as a party or appearance SEC. 104. MOTIONS TO MODIFY CONSENT DE- ‘‘(4) In this subsection, the term ‘foreign state’ as amicus curiae shall be of right and may be CREES. has the meaning given the term in section 1603 denied by a court only upon an express finding If an agency moves a court to modify a cov- of title 28. that such intervention or appearance is un- ered consent decree or settlement agreement and ‘‘(e) Except with regard to children under timely and would significantly delay the pend- the basis of the motion is that the terms of the eighteen, the disclosure of information required ing action or, in the case of intervention, that covered consent decree or settlement agreement in this section shall not be considered a ‘clearly standing to intervene is required and has not are no longer fully in the public interest due to unwarranted invasion of personal privacy’ for been established under section 2 of article III of the obligations of the agency to fulfill other du- purposes of title 5, United States Code. the Constitution of the United States. ties or due to changed facts and circumstances, ‘‘(f) No payment may be made under this sec- ‘‘(3) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this the court shall review the motion and the cov- tion to a state sponsor of terrorism, as defined in section shall be construed to confer standing on ered consent decree or settlement agreement de section 1605A(h) of title 28, or to an organiza- any party seeking to bring, or jurisdiction on novo. tion that has been designated as a foreign ter- any court with respect to, any civil or criminal SEC. 105. EFFECTIVE DATE. rorist organization under section 219 of the Im- action against Congress, either House of Con- migration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1189).’’. This title shall apply to— gress, a Member of Congress, a committee or (b) IMPLEMENTATION.—The Secretary of the (1) any covered civil action filed on or after subcommittee of a House of Congress, any office Treasury shall carry out the amendment made the date of enactment of this title; and or agency of Congress, or any officer or em- by this section by not later than 60 days after (2) any covered consent decree or settlement ployee of a House of Congress or any office or the date of enactment of this title. agreement proposed to a court on or after the agency of Congress.’’. date of enactment of this title. TITLE III—ARTICLE I AMICUS AND The Acting CHAIR. No amendment INTERVENTION TITLE II—JUDGMENT FUND to that amendment in the nature of a TRANSPARENCY SEC. 301. SHORT TITLE. substitute shall be in order except This title may be cited as the ‘‘Article I Ami- those printed in part A of House Report SEC. 201. SHORT TITLE. cus and Intervention Act of 2017’’. This title may be cited as the ‘‘Judgment Fund 115–363 and the amendment designated SEC. 302. CONGRESSIONAL INTERVENTION AS OF Transparency Act of 2017’’. RIGHT. in the order of the House of October 24, SEC. 202. JUDGMENT FUND TRANSPARENCY. (a) DEADLINE FOR REPORT ON LIMITATION ON 2017. Each such amendment may be of- (a) TRANSPARENCY REQUIREMENT.—Section ENFORCEMENT OF LAWS.—Paragraph (2) of sec- fered only in the order printed in the 1304 of title 31, United States Code, is amended tion 530D(b) of title 28, United States Code, is report, by a Member designated in the by adding at the end the following: amended to read as follows: report, shall be considered as read, ‘‘(d)(1) Unless the disclosure of such informa- ‘‘(2) under subsection (a)(1)(B), within such shall be debatable for the time speci- tion is otherwise prohibited by law or court time as will reasonably enable the House of Rep- fied in the report equally divided and order, the Secretary of the Treasury shall make resentatives and the Senate to take action, sepa- available to the public on a website, as soon as rately or jointly, to intervene in a timely fashion controlled by the proponent and an op- practicable, but not later than 30 days after the in the proceeding, but in no event— ponent, shall not be subject to amend- date on which a payment under this section is ‘‘(A) later than 30 days after the making of ment, and shall not be subject to a de- tendered on or after January 1, 2016, the fol- each determination; and mand for division of the question.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:38 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.041 H25OCPT1 H8202 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 AMENDMENT NO. 1 OFFERED BY MR. COLLINS OF by a court order. Moreover, Federal as racial and sexual discrimination. In GEORGIA judges have ample discretion to allow a effect, it revictimizes the victims of The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order plaintiff to proceed under the pseu- government misconduct or abuse—a to consider amendment No. 1 printed in donym as a ‘‘Doe plaintiff’’ or to seal terrible result. part A of House Report 115–363. and redact intimate records. So, therefore, I oppose this amend- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- My amendment is necessary to pre- ment which does not do anything to man, I rise as the designee of Chairman vent future government abuse by in- improve the bill and, in fact, makes it GOODLATTE, and I have an amendment creasing the overall transparency of considerably worse. at the desk. the Judgment Fund and, in turn, in- Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will creasing government accountability. to vote ‘‘no’’ on this amendment. And designate the amendment. I urge my colleagues to support this if you vote for it, recognize that you The text of the amendment is as fol- important clarification, and I reserve will have to go home and tell your con- lows: the balance of my time. stituents that you have agreed to a se- Page 16, line 2, insert after ‘‘otherwise pro- Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Chairman, I seek rious invasion of their personal privacy hibited by law’’ the following: ‘‘(other than time in opposition to the amendment. and that it will allow individuals who section 552a of title 5, United States Code)’’. The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman are victims of government misconduct The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to from Rhode Island is recognized for 5 to have that personal information put House Resolution 577, the gentleman minutes. on the internet and shared with mil- from Georgia (Mr. COLLINS) and a Mem- Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Chairman, I lions of people all over the world. ber opposed each will control 5 min- think it is very important to say at the I yield back the balance of my time. utes. outset this is not about clarifying any- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- The Chair recognizes the gentleman thing. This is about a major change in man, you can also go home and tell from Georgia. policy. them, if they filed a suit, that it is al- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- This amendment will permit the pub- ready currently in the PACER system, man, the Department of the Treasury’s lication of a victim’s sensitive infor- probably with more information than interpretation of current law prohibits mation, such as the individual’s name just that, or they could have filed it it from making public the names of and case history, on the internet. This under a pseudonym or had their law- plaintiffs. My amendment clarifies overrides the Privacy Act. yers have this suppressed. This is an that these names, which this bill re- So let’s be clear about what this is. issue that is already out there; and as quires to be disclosed, will, in fact, be This is not a clarification. This is a we look at this, this is moving forward. disclosed. major change in policy. So I would just ask that this amend- In January 2016, it was reported that This amendment will make a bad bill ment be reported favorably. the United States agreed to pay $1.7 even worse. It specifies that the Pri- I yield back the balance of my time. billion to Iran in a settlement arising vacy Act does not prohibit the publica- The Acting CHAIR. The question is from an agreement to sell military tion of a victim’s sensitive informa- on the amendment offered by the gen- equipment to Iran prior to the 1979 Ira- tion, such as his or her name and case tleman from Georgia (Mr. COLLINS). nian Revolution. At the time, it was history. The amendment was agreed to. known that $400 million in cash had Under current law, the Treasury De- AMENDMENT NO. 2 OFFERED BY MR. CONYERS been transferred to Iran, but it was un- partment cannot, for the purposes of The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order clear, even after public inquiry, how the Judgment Fund, publish the sen- to consider amendment No. 2 made in the remaining $1.3 billion had been sitive information of individuals who order by the order of the House of Oc- paid. are victims of government abuse or tober 24, 2017. On August 22, 2016, the New York Sun misconduct, such as a name or case Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Chairman, I have reported that, while conducting an on- history. This is because the Privacy an amendment at the desk. going but fruitless search of ‘‘Iran’’ as Act requires an individual’s consent The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will a claimant in the Treasury database, it prior to publishing their name or other designate the amendment. found 13 payments totaling 13 cents sensitive information. The text of the amendment is as fol- less than $1.3 billion, as well as an ad- Although proponents of this amend- lows: ditional payment of just over $10 mil- ment may claim that this information AN AMENDMENT OFFERED IN LIEU OF AMEND- lion. Without further context, however, is, in some instances, already publicly MENT NO. 2 PRINTED IN PART A OF HOUSE the New York Sun could not confirm available, the Supreme Court has rec- REPORT NO. 115–363 OFFERED BY MR. CON- whether these payments were, in fact, ognized that a person’s privacy inter- YERS OF MICHIGAN part of the settlement. ests and their personal information Page 3, line 17, strike ‘‘; and’’ and insert ‘‘, It was only after months of increased collected in government records does other than an excepted consent decree or set- public scrutiny, long after the money not automatically dissolve because tlement agreement;’’. had been disbursed, that the previous such information may be available to Page 4, line 4, strike the period and insert administration acknowledges that the public already in some other for- ‘‘; and’’. Page 4, insert after line 4 the following: these payments were indeed part of the mat. Individuals have the right to con- (6) the term ‘‘excepted consent decree or Iran settlement. trol the dissemination of their own per- settlement agreement’’ means a covered con- My amendment will ensure that the sonal information. This amendment sent decree or covered settlement agreement public knows about the conduct of its makes it clear that the bill will in- that prevents or is intended to prevent dis- government and the laws that are fringe on an individual’s personal pri- crimination based on race, religion, national being faithfully executed and that jus- vacy if he or she is compensated from origin, or any other protected category. tice is being served. The information the Judgment Fund. The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to that this bill requires to be disclosed, Moreover, this amendment does not House Resolution 577, the gentleman which, in many cases is already pub- further the public interest in govern- from Michigan (Mr. CONYERS) and a licly available in court documents, in- ment transparency. Publishing an indi- Member opposed each will control 5 forms Congress and the public in new vidual person’s name on the internet minutes. ways, particularly with regard to sys- sheds no significant light on the inner The Chair recognizes the gentleman temic government abuse. workings of government and has no from Michigan. Furthermore, any concerns about the value; and so, to the contrary, it will Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Chairman, my disclosure of the plaintiffs’ names are result in potentially grave harassment amendment would exempt from H.R. mitigated by the fact that this amend- or even intimidation. 469 settlement agreements and consent ment does not foreclose a court’s abil- Revealing this information is an un- decrees intended to prevent discrimina- ity to protect private information. In- warranted intrusion on personal pri- tion based on race, religion, national deed, the information required to be vacy of individuals harmed by govern- origin, or other protected category. made public in title II will not be dis- ment misconduct, which could include Given the often systemic nature of closed if such disclosure is prohibited victims of medical malpractice as well discriminatory conduct, settlement

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:42 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.083 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8203 agreements and consent decrees pro- what this amendment does is seek less The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to vide an invaluable means to provide for transparency, public participation, and House Resolution 577, the gentleman general relief for non-identifiable vic- judicial review for consent decrees and from Georgia (Mr. JOHNSON) and a tims and to prevent future discrimina- settlement agreements for regulations Member opposed each will control 5 tory acts. that allegedly will help to protect civil minutes. In particular, they are instrumental rights. The Chair recognizes the gentleman in enforcing critical civil rights protec- With all due respect, I believe this from Georgia. tions in a wide variety of cases, includ- has matters backwards. More trans- Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speak- ing voting rights violations and preda- parency, public input, and judicial er, I rise to support my amendment to tory lending practices based on race. scrutiny will only help to produce reg- H.R. 469, and to advocate for rural Other examples include the use of con- ulations that better protect civil Georgians and Americans across the sent decrees by the Justice Department rights. country who don’t have dependable ac- to address unconstitutional police pat- Further, since the bill promotes the cess to broadband internet services. tern or practice activities. participation of regulated entities and We are here today debating H.R. 469, For example, in 2003, the City of De- State, local, and Tribal entities that a bill that would require burdensome troit entered into a consent decree may be affected by or help to enforce and unnecessary processes that would with the Justice Department con- the regulations, it will promote buy-in delay the enforcement of Federal regu- cerning the inappropriate use of force from these groups. That will help the lations. H.R. 469 undermines the ability and arrest practices by the city’s police regulation to be better and more of government agencies to protect pub- promptly implemented and not held for department. As a result of this decree, lic health and safety by prohibiting years in litigation challenging the the police department implemented them from using consent decrees and rules. settlements to enforce the law that we vastly improved practices that have I would urge my colleagues to oppose substantially reduced the incidence of pass by allowing private industry to in- this amendment, and I yield back the tervene in opposition to regulations fatalities caused by law enforcement balance of my time. activities, a goal that the Judiciary that they deem unfavorable to them. It requires the publishing of the personal Committee Chairman GOODLATTE and I b 1715 very much endorse. Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Chairman, al- data of those who bring complaints According to the department’s civil though H.R. 469 has many flaws, I am against the government, thus deterring rights division, these decrees facilitate particularly concerned that the bill’s complaints. My amendment would ensure that fu- institutional reforms, such as improv- broad and ill-defined requirements ture actions taken by Congress to in- ing systems for supervising officers and would effectively delay and possibly crease broadband access in rural areas holding them accountable for mis- deter civil enforcement agencies from are not stymied by these excessive reg- conduct, as well as ensuring officers providing general relief in discrimination cases, discourage courts from en- ulatory burdens. My amendment would have the policy guidance, training, exempt any future legislation, or any equipment, and other resources nec- forcing these settlements, and also invite costly and needless litigation. future rules that may be enacted to essary for constitutional and effective bring this technology to underserved policing. In response to this problem, my amendment would simply exclude from areas from the requirements put in Unfortunately, H.R. 469 would make place by H.R. 469. the use of such remedies exceedingly the bill’s burdensome requirements settlement agreements and consent de- It shouldn’t be groundbreaking news difficult by subjecting them to numer- that, in many of our districts, a gap ex- ous procedural and potentially crees intended to remediate general- ized harms in civil rights cases. ists between urban and rural commu- meritless court challenges. nities insofar as broadband A particularly concerning provision Mr. Chairman, this is a commonsense amendment, and I urge my colleagues connectivity is concerned. The Fourth of this bill is its broad and ill-defined District of Georgia has some rural authorization allowing virtually any- here to support it. Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of pockets that are facing this challenge one to intervene with respect to a pro- today. posed settlement agreement or consent my time. The Acting CHAIR. The question is According to a study done by the Pew decree. on the amendment offered by the gen- Research Center in 2016, rural Ameri- For example, imagine a proposed set- tleman from Michigan (Mr. CONYERS). cans are still 10 percentage points less tlement agreement intended to restrict The amendment was rejected. likely than average citizens to have a city’s school district from discrimi- AMENDMENT NO. 3 OFFERED BY MR. JOHNSON OF broadband access at home. Although nating against Muslims. Under the bill, GEORGIA we have seen improvements since the any anti-Muslim or neo-Nazi organiza- The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order 16-point gap in 2007, we have much tion could petition the court to inter- to consider amendment No. 3 printed in work to do to ensure that all families vene for the purpose of opposing such part A of House Report 115–363. have access to what is now a modern agreement on the ground that it Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. I have an necessity. ‘‘would affect’’ such person. amendment at the desk. My home State of Georgia ranks 21st This is just one of the many funda- The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will in the Nation in terms of access to 25 mental problems presented by this designate the amendment. megabit per second broadband, accord- thoroughly flawed and, I think, harm- The text of the amendment is as fol- ing to a report put together by the ful measure, and, so, accordingly, I ask lows: Georgia House and Senate Study Com- my colleagues here to join me in oppos- Page 3, line 17, strike ‘‘; and’’ and insert ‘‘, mittee on High Speed Broadband Com- ing H.R. 469. other than an excepted consent decree or set- munications Access for all Georgians. Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance tlement agreement;’’. In rural counties where this problem of my time. Page 4, line 4, strike the period and insert persists, we have seen local develop- ‘‘; and’’. Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- Page 4, insert after line 4 the following: ment stall without access to telehealth man, I claim the time in opposition. (6) the term ‘‘excepted consent decree or services, educational materials, and The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman is settlement agreement’’ means a covered con- other digital resources. recognized for 5 minutes. sent decree or covered settlement agreement Broadband connectivity brings with Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- pertaining to a deadline established by Con- it countless learning opportunities and man, with much respect for my rank- gress through the enactment of a Federal exchanges of information that are not ing member on my committee—we statute to— possible in isolated communities with- have served together; we have worked (A) significantly improve access to afford- out broadband. The issue of broadband on a lot of issues together, namely, the able, high-speed broadband internet in access is inextricably linked to the vi- under-served markets, such as low-income Police Working Group, and other and rural communities; and tality of these rural areas, and it is in things, and his work has been very (B) facilitate economic development in lo- our best interest as a Congress to give helpful in that regard—I do have to op- cations without sufficient access to such rural communities all of the modern pose this amendment because, really, service. tools they need to succeed.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:42 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.086 H25OCPT1 H8204 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 The FCC’s 2016 Broadband Progress unfortunately, like the last amend- H.R. 2266. An act making additional sup- Report identified 24 million rural ment, that seeks less transparency and plemental appropriations for disaster relief Americans throughout the country who public participation. It does not do requirements for the fiscal year ending Sep- don’t have a broadband connection—24 anything to discourage people from tember 30, 2018, and for other purposes. million Americans whose access would working to find rural broadband solu- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The be delayed even further by the imple- tions. Committee will resume its sitting. What this actually does, it just, mentation of H.R. 469’s elimination of f consent decrees. again, tries to seek less transparency I hope Congress can agree on the im- instead of more. But I think there is a SUNSHINE FOR REGULATIONS AND portance of achieving full broadband positive here. I choose to look at the REGULATORY DECREES AND access, and I hope that this amendment positive. I disagree with this amend- SETTLEMENTS ACT OF 2017 ment and would ask that it be voted will begin removing this hurdle that is The Committee resumed its sitting. being put in place by my friends on the ‘‘no.’’ But I look at the positive to say, AMENDMENT NO. 4 OFFERED BY MR. MCEACHIN other side of the aisle who support as someone from Georgia, we have got business as opposed to people. a fight we can connect on, and that is The Acting CHAIR (Mr. MITCHELL). It Mr. Chair, I urge my colleagues to rural broadband, because there is no is now in order to consider amendment join me in supporting this common- longer a digital divide. There is a hope No. 4 printed in part A of House Report sense amendment, and I reserve the and dream divide. It is not a digital di- 115–363. balance of my time. vide. It is a hope and dream for those Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Chairman, I Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair, I students, and those moms, and those have an amendment at the desk. claim the time in opposition. dads, and those families in those areas The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman is who cannot access the internet. designate the amendment. recognized for 5 minutes. For me, it was a radio and a book. It The text of the amendment is as fol- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. I was just took me all over the world. Nowadays, lows: sitting here, Mr. Chairman, and I am it is the internet and a phone where Page 3, line 17, strike ‘‘; and’’ and insert ‘‘, excited and welcome my friend from our students can actually get what other than an excepted consent decree or set- they want. Unfortunately, this amend- tlement agreement;’’. Georgia to the fight for broadband. I Page 4, line 4, strike the period and insert have been leading on this fight now for ment doesn’t do it. I have to oppose ‘‘; and’’. several years, especially in my district, this amendment, but I am glad to wel- Page 4, insert after line 4 the following: which is rural, which has a company come to the fight another friend (6) the term ‘‘excepted consent decree or called Windstream that does not pro- against the evils of not being able to settlement agreement’’ means a covered con- vide for its citizens. I am excited to expand broadband. sent decree or covered settlement agreement have the acknowledgment that rural Mr. Chair, I yield back the balance of pertaining to the improvement or mainte- broadband is something that we need my time. nance of air or water quality. to be fighting for. Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Chair, The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to My district has areas in which I just enjoyed the contrast between our House Resolution 577, the gentleman Windstream was supposed to use its different styles. The Congressman, my from Virginia (Mr. MCEACHIN) and a Connect America funds to widen its friend from Georgia, is very upbeat and Member opposed each will control 5 footprint on rural broadband. Instead, passionate. I am more laid back and minutes. they have shrunk it, only to compete kind of reserved. But we both agree on The Chair recognizes the gentleman in areas where they are competing the fact that we want more broadband from Virginia. against other companies, and only wid- to be accessible to rural customers. We Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Chairman, I ening it in areas where they already both agree on that. yield myself such time as I may con- had technology which they could have We just simply disagree on whether sume. widened years before. or not we should allow a process where- Mr. Chairman, I rise in support of my I think it is really interesting, and I by a third-party corporation can come amendment which seeks to reduce H.R. am so glad about this because it also in and gum up the regulatory scheme 469’s adverse effects on public health gives me the opportunity to talk about that has been laid out in the rulings and environmental quality. More spe- the GO Act, the Gigabyte Opportunity that have been made and, thus, delay cifically, my amendment would exempt Act, which actually will provide real the availability of broadband to rural from the terms of this bill consent de- solutions into these districts for customers. crees and settlement agreements per- broadband opportunity. Mr. Chair, I would ask respectfully taining to the maintenance or improve- I would encourage my friends from that my colleagues support my amendment of air and water quality. Georgia and from Michigan, and any- ment, and I yield back the balance of Mr. Chairman, litigation empowers body else, to sign on to this bill. It is my time. our constituents to hold Federal agen- a good bill that has support across the The Acting CHAIR. The question is cies accountable when they fail to take way in the Senate, and also working on the amendment offered by the gen- required actions by congressionally with the administration to provide the tleman from Georgia (Mr. JOHNSON). mandated deadlines. In many of these The question was taken; and the Act- way for States to actually look at their cases, agencies’ failures are not in seri- ing Chair announced that the noes ap- own States and provide gigabyte oppor- ous dispute. A missed deadline is a peared to have it. missed deadline. Litigants’ goals are tunity zones so that they can actually Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Chair- simply to ensure that the law is fol- make ways and get these companies man, I demand a recorded vote. that are monopolizing the areas and The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to lowed quickly and in full. not serving their constituents. clause 6 of rule XVIII, further pro- In such cases, it is not unusual, and By the way, Mr. Chairman, it is sad ceedings on the amendment offered by certainly not unreasonable, for law- because, in some of my districts right the gentleman from Georgia will be suits to conclude with consent decrees now, it has been over really about 6 postponed. or settlement agreements. As reported, weeks or so since Irma came through The Committee will rise informally. this bill would introduction duplicative northeast Georgia and knocked out The Speaker pro tempore (Mr. JOHN- requirements and unnecessary barriers power and delayed broadband, and I SON of Louisiana) assumed the chair. into the process by which the consent still have customers in my district who f decrees and settlement agreements are do not have phone service or broadband reached. As a result, both tools would this long after that fact. ENROLLED BILL SIGNED be used less often and less effectively. This is just unacceptable, so I appre- Karen L. Haas, Clerk of the House, Across the board, that change would ciate the concern here. The only prob- reported and found truly an enrolled be a mistake, but would generally be lem is, this amendment doesn’t help. bill of the House of the following title, disastrous with respect to pollution. This amendment is not one that does— which was thereupon signed by the Air and water quality are matters of again, it just is another amendment, Speaker: public health. When they fail to meet

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:42 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.089 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8205 certain levels, people get sick and po- agencies’ actions; overwhelmingly, support this amendment, that we move tentially die. The World Health Organi- they concluded it does not. forward in that regard, and I yield back zation says that unhealthy environ- So the only function of this bill the balance of my time. ments kill more than 12 million people would be to stymie citizens’—our con- The Acting CHAIR. The question is annually. In the United States, mul- stituents’—efforts to ensure that our on the amendment offered by the gen- tiple studies have shown that tens of laws are faithfully executed to protect tleman from Virginia (Mr. MCEACHIN). thousands of deaths every year are at- our air and our water, and, therefore, The question was taken; and the Act- tributable to air pollution alone. These our health, in court. ing Chair announced that the noes ap- figures, of course, do not begin to con- My amendment would fix that prob- peared to have it. template nonlethal effects of health lem in at least one area, and I urge its Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Chairman, I de- and quality of life. adoption. mand a recorded vote. We all know that justice delayed is Mr. Chairman, I reserve the balance The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to justice denied—and that is especially of my time. clause 6 of rule XVIII, further pro- true when lives are at stake. When reg- Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- ceedings on the amendment offered by ulators fail to take mandated actions man, I rise in opposition. the gentleman from Virginia will be to maintain or improve air or water The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman is postponed. quality, that is an injustice. When they recognized for 5 minutes. The Chair understands that amend- sincerely intend to take those actions, Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- ment No. 5 will not be offered. but fail to do so in a timely way, that man, I appreciate the gentleman bring- AMENDMENT NO. 6 OFFERED BY MR. is also an injustice. ing it forward. Again, we have never CARTWRIGHT If we make it harder for citizens to said that consent decrees can’t be used. The Acting CHAIR. It is now in order hold regulators accountable, if we take The issue here is how they are used in to consider amendment No. 6 printed in away tools that empower Americans to transparency. Justice delayed, as has part A of House Report 115–363. make their voices heard, and hold been said, is not one that is denied, but Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Chairman, I agencies to account, we are also transparency not used is also have an amendment at the desk. compounding those injuries. things that are done in the dark and The Acting CHAIR. The Clerk will Let me be clear: consent decrees and away from the public view which also designate the amendment. settlement agreements do make a real can have issues that we go forward. The text of the amendment is as fol- difference in people’s lives. They do Very few of these cases are actually lows: this not by changing the substance of brought by Joe Private Citizen. They Page 3, line 17, strike ‘‘; and’’ and insert ‘‘, the agencies’ actions as a formal rule- are brought by groups with interest. other than an excepted consent decree or set- making would do, but by ensuring that Even in the Chesapeake Bay, which tlement agreement;’’. the planned or required actions are ac- has an $18 billion compliance tag, the Page 4, line 4, strike the period and insert tually taken. rushed timeframe did not allow others’ ‘‘; and’’. Page 4, insert after line 4 the following: I invite my colleagues to look at the input and buy-in from other localities. Chesapeake Bay and the settlement (6) the term ‘‘excepted consent decree or So, again, nowhere has abuse of sue settlement agreement’’ means a covered con- agreement in Fowler v. EPA. Back in and settle tactics been seen so much as 2010, the EPA was under both congres- sent decree or covered settlement agreement in the environmental regulation. In entered into pursuant to sections 0.160 sional and executive mandates to im- fact, the Judiciary Committee’s report through 0.163 of title 28, Code of Federal Reg- prove water quality in the bay, but the on this bill highlights 10 environmental ulations (commonly referred to as the agency was not on track to implement sue and settle regulations from the ‘‘Meese Policy’’). necessary standards within the re- Obama administration that equaled up The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to quired timeframe. to $125 billion of cost. House Resolution 577, the gentleman Citizens and public interest groups Even the Environmental Council, as I from Pennsylvania (Mr. CARTWRIGHT) filed suit, and the case concluded in a stated earlier, in 2013, adopted a resolu- and a Member opposed each will con- settlement agreement that established tion calling upon the U.S. Environ- trol 5 minutes. a concrete deadline for actions that the mental Protection Agency to adopt re- The Chair recognizes the gentleman agency was already working towards— forms like the ones in this bill. from Pennsylvania. notably, the imposition of the total This amendment would deny reform Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Chairman, I maximum daily load, a binding limit to precisely the area of regulation that rise today to offer an amendment that on pollution in the watershed. needs it most and, thereby, substan- would create an exception in the legis- The result has been a small but very tially gut the bill. We can have good lation for consent decrees or settle- promising improvement in the health environmental regulations without ment agreements entered into pursu- of the bay. Were it not for the agree- shady, backroom dealing of sue and ant to the Meese policy. ment, we might still be waiting on the settle litigation skewing the results For those unfamiliar, the Meese pol- EPA to take the actions necessary. and excessively heightening the bur- icy prohibits the Department of Jus- b 1730 den. tice from undertaking a regulatory ac- We would have lost a significant I appreciate the gentleman bringing tion through a settlement. More spe- amount of time, and, instead of im- the amendment, but I would oppose it, cifically, the Meese policy directs de- proving conditions, conditions might and I would ask my colleagues to op- partments and agencies not to enter have worsened, and the problem we pose the amendment as well. into a consent decree if it would act as faced would have grown correspond- Mr. Chairman, I yield back the bal- a so-called end run, around the regular ingly greater. ance of my time. rulemaking process or constrain an So, again, Mr. Chairman, justice de- Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Chairman, I ap- agency head from exercising its discre- layed is justice denied; and, again, con- preciate the gentleman’s concerns, but tionary authority in the future. sent decrees and settlement agree- actually having been a trial lawyer and Any departure from these rules must ments prevent avoidable, unnecessary actually having practiced law in the be approved by the Attorney General, delay. courts of the Commonwealth of Vir- the Deputy Attorney General, or the Contrary to what my friends on the ginia and elsewhere, there is no more Associate Attorney General before- other side of the aisle have said, con- transparent process than the litigation hand. sent decrees and settlements do not process. Edwin Meese, the former Attorney and cannot take the place of formal I would submit that the notion that General for the Reagan administration, rulemaking. Existing Federal regula- somehow these actions are brought by wrote a memo articulating this policy tions prevent agencies from using ei- someone other than our constituents, in 1986, out of a concern for the abuse ther tool to make commitments in ex- someone other than citizens of the of settlements by agencies. Now, the cess of what relevant statutes provide. United States, is not well taken. Department of Justice later codified it The GAO has explored whether dead- So, Mr. Chairman, I would conclude in 1991, in the Code of Federal Regula- line litigation affects the substance of by simply asking that my colleagues tions.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.093 H25OCPT1 H8206 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 Simply put, there is a law already on partment from entering into specified postponed and on which the noes pre- the books that prevents the Depart- categories of decrees or settlements— vailed by voice vote. ment of Justice or other agencies from particularly those that allowed the ju- The Clerk will redesignate the abusing consent decrees and settlement diciary, through judicial orders, from amendment. agreements used by Federal agencies, invading the constitutionally exclusive The Clerk redesignated the amend- and it is working. authority of the executive branch. ment. In February of this year, the Govern- Current regulations, however, require RECORDED VOTE ment Accountability Office, the GAO, less scrutiny by, and less account- The Acting CHAIR. A recorded vote determined that Department officials ability for, such consent decrees on the has been demanded. negotiating settlement terms are cov- part of the Attorney General. A recorded vote was ordered. What we need is not less Department ered by the Meese policy. The GAO’s The vote was taken by electronic de- of Justice accountability for backroom report noted that any settlement vice, and there were—ayes 185, noes 231, deals that trespass constitutional lines would only include a commitment to not voting 16, as follows: perform an action already mandated by of authority, but more accountability. law. The bill would restore full account- [Roll No. 585] So if you are scoring along at home, ability consistent with the letter and AYES—185 what I am saying is this: there is a the spirit of the Meese memo itself. Adams Frankel (FL) Nolan needless overlap between this bill that Further, the amendment would carve Aguilar Fudge Norcross Barraga´ n Gabbard O’Halleran we are considering, H.R. 469, and the out any and all decrees and settle- Bass Gallego O’Rourke Meese policy in regard to the scope of ments entered by the approval of offi- Beatty Garamendi Pallone settlements. There is also redundancy cials as low as the Assistant Attorneys Bera Gomez Panetta Beyer Gonzalez (TX) Pascrell with existing laws in terms of pro- General—meaning most of the relevant Bishop (GA) Gottheimer decrees and settlements entered into Payne tecting the interests of third parties. Blumenauer Green, Al Pelosi If I may be so bold, I would like to by the Department. As a result, the Blunt Rochester Green, Gene Perlmutter Bonamici Grijalva say that persons with only a nodding amendment would gut the bill’s con- Peters Boyle, Brendan Gutie´rrez Peterson acquaintance with the Federal Rules of sent decree and settlement reforms. F. Hanabusa Pingree Civil Procedure already know that Fed- Mr. Chairman, I urge my colleagues Brady (PA) Hastings Pocan Brown (MD) Heck eral Rule of Civil Procedure 24 allows to oppose this amendment, and I yield Polis back the balance of my time. Brownley (CA) Higgins (NY) affected parties to intervene in litiga- Bustos Himes Price (NC) tion if they feel their interests are not Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Chairman, to Butterfield Hoyer Quigley properly represented in the case. conclude, H.R. 469’s proponents offer no Capuano Jackson Lee Raskin Moreover, even if a rule was promul- evidence that there actually is a sue Carbajal Jayapal Rice (NY) Ca´ rdenas Johnson (GA) Rosen gated by a settlement agreement, the and settle problem or that agencies are Carson (IN) Johnson, E. B. Roybal-Allard Administrative Procedure Act would not currently complying with the Cartwright Keating Ruiz still mandate notice-and-comment pro- Meese memo. The GAO has already Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) Ruppersberger cedures for the rule. Simply put, this is said they are. My amendment simply Castro (TX) Kennedy Rush Chu, Judy Khanna Ryan (OH) a bill that is a solution in search of a makes clear that this bill is unneces- Cicilline Kihuen Sa´ nchez problem, and my amendment under- sary, and, as such, I urge a ‘‘yes’’ vote Clark (MA) Kildee Sarbanes scores that fact. on this amendment. Clarke (NY) Kilmer Schakowsky If I may be so bold, I would like to Mr. Chairman, I yield back the bal- Clay Kind Schiff Cleaver Krishnamoorthi Schneider say that here in America we have ac- ance of my time. Clyburn Kuster (NH) Scott (VA) tual real problems that merit our at- The Acting CHAIR. The question is Cohen Langevin Scott, David tention here in this House, such as why on the amendment offered by the gen- Connolly Larsen (WA) Serrano Conyers Larson (CT) we haven’t had an infrastructure bill tleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. CART- Sewell (AL) Cooper Lawrence Shea-Porter leading to high-paying American jobs. WRIGHT). Correa Lawson (FL) Sherman We need actual solutions to actual The question was taken; and the Act- Costa Lee Sinema ing Chair announced that the noes ap- Courtney Levin Sires problems, not theoretical ones like in Crist Lewis (GA) this bill. That is why I have offered peared to have it. Slaughter Crowley Lieu, Ted Smith (WA) Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Chairman, I Cuellar Lipinski this amendment. Soto Cummings Loebsack Mr. Chair, I reserve the balance of demand a recorded vote. Speier Davis (CA) Lofgren The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to Suozzi my time. Davis, Danny Lowey Swalwell (CA) Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- clause 6 of rule XVIII, further pro- DeFazio Lujan Grisham, Takano ceedings on the amendment offered by DeGette M. man, I rise in opposition. Thompson (MS) The Acting CHAIR. The gentleman is the gentleman from Pennsylvania will Delaney Luja´ n, Ben Ray DeLauro Maloney, Titus recognized for 5 minutes. be postponed. DelBene Carolyn B. Tonko Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Chair- ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE ACTING CHAIR Demings Maloney, Sean Torres man, I do appreciate the gentleman The Acting CHAIR. Pursuant to DeSaulnier Matsui Tsongas Deutch McCollum Vargas bringing in the Meese memo. We dis- clause 6 of rule XVIII, proceedings will Dingell McEachin Veasey cussed this earlier that if we actually now resume on those amendments Doggett McGovern Vela went back to the actual intent of the printed in part A of House Report 115– Doyle, Michael McNerney Vela´ zquez Meese memo which said the Attorney 363 on which further proceedings were F. Meeks Visclosky Ellison Meng Walz General would be the part, we could postponed, in the following order: Engel Moore Wasserman probably agree on that. But let’s get Amendment No. 3 by Mr. JOHNSON of Eshoo Moulton Schultz some things straight. There has been Georgia. Espaillat Murphy (FL) Waters, Maxine Esty (CT) Nadler Watson Coleman Amendment No. 4 by Mr. MCEACHIN nothing codified. This is a regulation. Evans Napolitano Welch It has not been codified. Codification of Virginia. Foster Neal Yarmuth would have to come from actual legis- Amendment No. 6 by Mr. CARTWRIGHT NOES—231 lation passed by this body, and it is of Pennsylvania. not. The Chair will reduce to 2 minutes Abraham Biggs Buck Aderholt Bilirakis Bucshon The amendment would seek to carve the minimum time for any electronic Allen Bishop (MI) Budd out of the bill consent decrees and set- vote after the first vote in this series. Amash Bishop (UT) Burgess tlements entered into under Depart- AMENDMENT NO. 3 OFFERED BY MR. JOHNSON OF Amodei Black Byrne Arrington Blackburn Calvert GEORGIA ment of Justice regulations ostensibly Babin Blum Carter (GA) written to implement this Meese The Acting CHAIR. The unfinished Bacon Bost Carter (TX) memo. business is the demand for a recorded Banks (IN) Brady (TX) Chabot The Meese memo was a Reagan-era vote on the amendment offered by the Barletta Brat Cheney Barr Brooks (AL) Coffman Department policy, issued by Attorney gentleman from Georgia (Mr. JOHNSON) Barton Brooks (IN) Cole General Meese, that prohibited the De- on which further proceedings were Bergman Buchanan Collins (GA)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.096 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8207 Collins (NY) Jenkins (WV) Renacci The Clerk redesignated the amend- Cramer Johnson (OH) Renacci Comer Johnson (LA) Rice (SC) ment. Crawford Jordan Rice (SC) Comstock Johnson (OH) Roby Culberson Joyce (OH) Roby Conaway Jones Roe (TN) RECORDED VOTE Curbelo (FL) Katko Roe (TN) Cook Jordan Rogers (AL) The Acting CHAIR. A recorded vote Davidson Kelly (MS) Rogers (AL) Costello (PA) Joyce (OH) Rogers (KY) Davis, Rodney Kelly (PA) Rogers (KY) Cramer Katko Rohrabacher has been demanded. Dent King (IA) Rohrabacher Crawford Kelly (MS) Rokita A recorded vote was ordered. DeSantis King (NY) Rokita Culberson Kelly (PA) DesJarlais Kinzinger Rooney, Francis The Acting CHAIR. This will be a 2- Rooney, Francis Curbelo (FL) King (IA) Ros-Lehtinen Diaz-Balart Knight Ros-Lehtinen Davidson King (NY) Donovan Kustoff (TN) Roskam minute vote. Roskam Davis, Rodney Kinzinger Duffy Labrador Ross The vote was taken by electronic de- Ross Dent Knight Duncan (SC) LaHood Rothfus Rothfus DeSantis Kustoff (TN) vice, and there were—ayes 187, noes 226, Duncan (TN) LaMalfa Rouzer Rouzer DesJarlais Labrador not voting 19, as follows: Dunn Lamborn Royce (CA) Royce (CA) Diaz-Balart LaHood [Roll No. 586] Emmer Lance Russell Donovan LaMalfa Russell Estes (KS) Latta Rutherford Rutherford Duffy Lamborn AYES—187 Farenthold Lewis (MN) Sanford Duncan (SC) Lance Sanford Faso Long Adams Gabbard Neal Scalise Duncan (TN) Latta Scalise Ferguson Loudermilk Aguilar Gallego Nolan Schweikert Dunn Lewis (MN) Schrader Fitzpatrick Love Barraga´ n Garamendi Norcross Scott, Austin Emmer LoBiondo Schweikert Fleischmann Lucas Bass Gomez O’Halleran Sensenbrenner Estes (KS) Long Scott, Austin Flores Luetkemeyer Beatty Gonzalez (TX) O’Rourke Sessions Farenthold Loudermilk Sensenbrenner Foxx MacArthur Bera Gottheimer Pallone Shimkus Faso Love Sessions Franks (AZ) Marchant Beyer Green, Al Panetta Shuster Ferguson Lucas Shimkus Frelinghuysen Marino Bishop (GA) Green, Gene Payne Simpson Fitzpatrick Luetkemeyer Shuster Gaetz Marshall Blunt Rochester Grijalva Pelosi Smith (MO) Fleischmann MacArthur Simpson Gallagher Massie Bonamici Gutie´rrez Perlmutter Smith (TX) Flores Marchant Smith (MO) Garrett Mast Boyle, Brendan Hanabusa Peters Smucker Foxx Marino Smith (NJ) Gianforte McCarthy F. Hastings Peterson Franks (AZ) Marshall Gibbs McCaul Stefanik Smith (TX) Brady (PA) Heck Pingree Frelinghuysen Massie Gohmert McClintock Stewart Smucker Brown (MD) Higgins (NY) Pocan Gaetz Mast Goodlatte McHenry Stivers Stefanik Brownley (CA) Himes Polis Gallagher McCarthy Gosar McKinley Taylor Stewart Bustos Hoyer Price (NC) Garrett McCaul Gowdy McMorris Tenney Stivers Butterfield Jackson Lee Quigley Gianforte McClintock Granger Rodgers Thompson (PA) Taylor Capuano Jayapal Raskin Gibbs McHenry Graves (GA) McSally Thornberry Tenney Carbajal Johnson (GA) Rice (NY) Gohmert McKinley Graves (LA) Meadows Tiberi Thompson (PA) Ca´ rdenas Johnson, E. B. Rosen Goodlatte McMorris Graves (MO) Meehan Tipton Thornberry Carson (IN) Jones Roybal-Allard Gosar Rodgers Griffith Messer Trott Tiberi Cartwright Kaptur Ruiz Gowdy McSally Grothman Mitchell Turner Tipton Castor (FL) Keating Ruppersberger Granger Meadows Guthrie Moolenaar Upton Trott Chu, Judy Kelly (IL) Rush Graves (GA) Meehan Handel Mooney (WV) Valadao Turner Cicilline Kennedy Ryan (OH) Graves (LA) Messer Harper Mullin Wagner Upton Clark (MA) Khanna Sa´ nchez Graves (MO) Mitchell Harris Newhouse Walberg Valadao Clarke (NY) Kihuen Sarbanes Griffith Moolenaar Hartzler Noem Walden Wagner Clay Kildee Schakowsky Grothman Mooney (WV) Hensarling Norman Walker Walberg Cleaver Kilmer Schiff Guthrie Mullin Herrera Beutler Nunes Walorski Walden Clyburn Kind Schneider Handel Newhouse Hice, Jody B. Olson Walters, Mimi Walker Cohen Krishnamoorthi Schrader Harper Noem Higgins (LA) Palazzo Weber (TX) Connolly Kuster (NH) Scott (VA) Harris Norman Walorski Hill Palmer Wenstrup Conyers Langevin Scott, David Hartzler Nunes Walters, Mimi Holding Paulsen Westerman Cooper Larsen (WA) Serrano Hensarling Olson Weber (TX) Hollingsworth Pearce Williams Correa Larson (CT) Sewell (AL) Herrera Beutler Palazzo Wenstrup Huizenga Perry Wilson (SC) Costa Lawrence Shea-Porter Hice, Jody B. Palmer Westerman Hultgren Pittenger Wittman Courtney Lawson (FL) Sherman Higgins (LA) Paulsen Williams Hunter Poe (TX) Womack Crist Lee Sinema Hill Pearce Wilson (SC) Hurd Poliquin Woodall Crowley Levin Sires Holding Perry Wittman Issa Posey Yoder Cuellar Lewis (GA) Slaughter Hollingsworth Pittenger Womack Jenkins (KS) Ratcliffe Young (AK) Cummings Lieu, Ted Smith (NJ) Huizenga Poe (TX) Woodall Jenkins (WV) Reed Young (IA) Davis (CA) Lipinski Smith (WA) Hultgren Poliquin Yoder Johnson (LA) Reichert Zeldin Davis, Danny LoBiondo Soto Hunter Posey Yoho DeFazio Loebsack Speier Hurd Ratcliffe Young (AK) NOT VOTING—19 DeGette Lofgren Suozzi Issa Reed Young (IA) Delaney Lowey Swalwell (CA) Blumenauer Jeffries Rooney, Thomas Jenkins (KS) Reichert Zeldin DeLauro Lujan Grisham, Takano Bridenstine Johnson, Sam J. Castro (TX) Smith (NE) NOT VOTING—16 DelBene M. Thompson (MS) Lowenthal Demings Luja´ n, Ben Ray Titus Denham Lynch Thompson (CA) Bridenstine Johnson, Sam Rooney, Thomas DeSaulnier Maloney, Tonko Fortenberry Pascrell Webster (FL) Denham Kaptur J. Deutch Carolyn B. Torres Hudson Richmond Wilson (FL) Fortenberry Lowenthal Smith (NE) Dingell Maloney, Sean Tsongas Huffman Yoho Hudson Lynch Thompson (CA) Doggett Matsui Vargas ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE ACTING CHAIR Huffman Richmond Webster (FL) Doyle, Michael McCollum Veasey Jeffries Wilson (FL) F. McEachin Vela The Acting CHAIR (during the vote). b 1805 Ellison McGovern Vela´ zquez There is 1 minute remaining. Engel McNerney Visclosky Messrs. BACON, KELLY of Pennsyl- Eshoo Meeks Walz b 1809 vania, and ALLEN changed their vote Espaillat Meng Wasserman So the amendment was rejected. Esty (CT) Moore Schultz from ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’ Evans Moulton Waters, Maxine The result of the vote was announced Ms. SPEIER, Messrs. KIHUEN, and Foster Murphy (FL) Watson Coleman as above recorded. DOGGETT changed their vote from Frankel (FL) Nadler Welch Stated against: ‘‘no’’ to ‘‘aye.’’ Fudge Napolitano Yarmuth Mr. YOHO. Mr. Chair, I was unavoidably de- So the amendment was rejected. NOES—226 tained. Had I been present, I would have The result of the vote was announced Abraham Bishop (MI) Byrne voted ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 586. as above recorded. Aderholt Bishop (UT) Calvert PERONAL EXPLANATION AMENDMENT NO. 4 OFFERED BY MR. MCEACHIN Allen Black Carter (GA) Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Chair, I was inadvertently Amash Blackburn Carter (TX) The Acting CHAIR. The unfinished Amodei Blum Chabot delayed on rollcall numbers 585 and 586. Had business is the demand for a recorded Arrington Bost Cheney I been in attendance, I would have voted vote on the amendment offered by the Babin Brady (TX) Coffman ‘‘yes’’ on rollcall No. 585 and ‘‘yes’’ on rollcall Bacon Brat Cole gentleman from Virginia (Mr. Banks (IN) Brooks (AL) Collins (GA) No. 586. MCEACHIN) on which further pro- Barletta Brooks (IN) Collins (NY) AMENDMENT NO. 6 OFFERED BY MR. ceedings were postponed and on which Barr Buchanan Comer CARTWRIGHT the noes prevailed by voice vote. Barton Buck Comstock The Acting CHAIR. The unfinished Bergman Bucshon Conaway The Clerk will redesignate the Biggs Budd Cook business is the demand for a recorded amendment. Bilirakis Burgess Costello (PA) vote on the amendment offered by the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.048 H25OCPT1 H8208 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. Brooks (IN) Hice, Jody B. Pittenger chair, Mr. MITCHELL, Acting Chair of Buchanan Higgins (LA) Poe (TX) CARTWRIGHT) on which further pro- the Committee of the Whole House on Buck Hill Poliquin ceedings were postponed and on which Bucshon Holding Posey the state of the Union, reported that the noes prevailed by voice vote. Budd Hollingsworth Ratcliffe that Committee, having had under con- The Clerk will redesignate the Burgess Hudson Reed sideration the bill (H.R. 469) to impose Byrne Huizenga Reichert amendment. Calvert Hultgren Renacci certain limitations on consent decrees The Clerk redesignated the amend- Carter (GA) Hunter Rice (SC) and settlement agreements by agencies ment. Carter (TX) Hurd Roby that require the agencies to take regu- Chabot Issa Roe (TN) latory action in accordance with the RECORDED VOTE Cheney Jenkins (KS) Rogers (AL) The Acting CHAIR. A recorded vote Coffman Jenkins (WV) Rogers (KY) terms thereof, and for other purposes, has been demanded. Cole Johnson (LA) Rohrabacher and, pursuant to House Resolution 577, Collins (GA) Johnson (OH) Rokita he reported the bill back to the House A recorded vote was ordered. Collins (NY) Jones Rooney, Francis with an amendment adopted in the The Acting CHAIR. This will be a 2- Comer Jordan Ros-Lehtinen minute vote. Comstock Joyce (OH) Roskam Committee of the Whole. The vote was taken by electronic de- Conaway Katko Ross The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Cook Kelly (MS) Rothfus the rule, the previous question is or- vice, and there were—ayes 186, noes 232, Costello (PA) Kelly (PA) Rouzer not voting 14, as follows: Cramer King (IA) Royce (CA) dered. Crawford King (NY) [Roll No. 587] Russell Is a separate vote demanded on the Culberson Kinzinger Rutherford amendment to the amendment re- AYES—186 Curbelo (FL) Knight Sanford Davidson Kustoff (TN) ported from the Committee of the Adams Frankel (FL) Neal Scalise Davis, Rodney Labrador Whole? Aguilar Fudge Schweikert Nolan Denham LaHood Barraga´ n Gabbard Scott, Austin If not, the question is on the amend- Norcross Dent LaMalfa Bass Gallego Sensenbrenner O’Halleran DeSantis Lamborn ment in the nature of a substitute, as Beatty Garamendi Sessions O’Rourke DesJarlais Lance amended. Bera Gomez Shimkus Pallone Diaz-Balart Latta Beyer Gonzalez (TX) Shuster The amendment was agreed to. Panetta Donovan Lewis (MN) Bishop (GA) Gottheimer Simpson Pascrell Duffy LoBiondo The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Blumenauer Green, Al Smith (MO) Payne Duncan (SC) Long question is on the engrossment and Blunt Rochester Green, Gene Smith (NJ) Pelosi Duncan (TN) Loudermilk Bonamici Grijalva Smith (TX) third reading of the bill. Perlmutter Dunn Love Boyle, Brendan Gutie´rrez Smucker The bill was ordered to be engrossed Peters Emmer Lucas F. Hanabusa Stefanik Peterson Estes (KS) Luetkemeyer and read a third time, and was read the Brady (PA) Hastings Stewart Pingree Farenthold MacArthur third time. Brown (MD) Heck Pocan Faso Marchant Stivers Brownley (CA) Higgins (NY) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Polis Ferguson Marino Taylor Bustos Himes Price (NC) Fitzpatrick Marshall Tenney question is on the passage of the bill. Butterfield Hoyer Quigley Fleischmann Massie Thompson (PA) The question was taken; and the Capuano Jackson Lee Raskin Flores Mast Thornberry Carbajal Jayapal Speaker pro tempore announced that Rice (NY) Foxx McCarthy Tiberi Ca´ rdenas Johnson (GA) the ayes appeared to have it. Rosen Franks (AZ) McCaul Tipton Carson (IN) Johnson, E. B. Roybal-Allard Frelinghuysen McClintock Trott RECORDED VOTE Cartwright Kaptur Ruiz Gaetz McHenry Turner Castor (FL) Keating Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I de- Ruppersberger Gallagher McKinley Upton Castro (TX) Kelly (IL) Rush Garrett McMorris Valadao mand a recorded vote. Chu, Judy Kennedy Sa´ nchez Gianforte Rodgers Wagner A recorded vote was ordered. Cicilline Khanna Sarbanes Gibbs McSally Walberg Clark (MA) Kihuen The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Schakowsky Gohmert Meadows Walden Clarke (NY) Kildee 5-minute vote. Schiff Goodlatte Meehan Walker Clay Kilmer Schneider Gosar Messer Walorski The vote was taken by electronic de- Cleaver Kind Schrader Gowdy Mitchell Walters, Mimi Clyburn Krishnamoorthi vice, and there were—ayes 234, noes 187, Granger Moolenaar Weber (TX) Cohen Langevin Scott (VA) not voting 11, as follows: Graves (GA) Mooney (WV) Wenstrup Connolly Larsen (WA) Scott, David Graves (LA) Mullin Westerman [Roll No. 588] Conyers Larson (CT) Serrano Graves (MO) Newhouse Williams Cooper Lawrence Sewell (AL) AYES—234 Griffith Noem Wilson (SC) Correa Lawson (FL) Shea-Porter Grothman Norman Wittman Abraham Collins (GA) Gianforte Costa Lee Sherman Guthrie Nunes Womack Aderholt Collins (NY) Gibbs Courtney Levin Sinema Handel Olson Woodall Allen Comer Gohmert Crist Lewis (GA) Sires Harper Palazzo Yoder Amash Comstock Goodlatte Crowley Lieu, Ted Slaughter Harris Palmer Yoho Amodei Conaway Gosar Cuellar Lipinski Smith (WA) Hartzler Paulsen Young (AK) Arrington Cook Gowdy Cummings Loebsack Soto Hensarling Pearce Young (IA) Babin Costello (PA) Granger Davis (CA) Lofgren Speier Herrera Beutler Perry Zeldin Bacon Cramer Graves (GA) Davis, Danny Lowey Suozzi Banks (IN) Crawford Graves (LA) DeFazio Lujan Grisham, Swalwell (CA) NOT VOTING—14 Barletta Cuellar Graves (MO) DeGette M. Takano Bridenstine Kuster (NH) Ryan (OH) Barr Culberson Griffith Delaney Luja´ n, Ben Ray Thompson (MS) Fortenberry Lowenthal Smith (NE) Barton Curbelo (FL) Grothman DeLauro Lynch Titus Huffman Richmond Thompson (CA) Bergman Davidson Guthrie DelBene Maloney, Tonko Jeffries Rooney, Thomas Webster (FL) Biggs Davis, Rodney Handel Demings Carolyn B. Torres Johnson, Sam J. Wilson (FL) Bilirakis Denham Harper DeSaulnier Maloney, Sean Tsongas Bishop (MI) Dent Harris Deutch Matsui Vargas b 1814 Bishop (UT) DeSantis Hartzler Dingell McCollum Veasey Black DesJarlais Hensarling Doggett McEachin Vela Mr. MARSHALL changed his vote Blackburn Diaz-Balart Herrera Beutler Doyle, Michael McGovern Vela´ zquez from ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’ Blum Donovan Hice, Jody B. F. McNerney Visclosky Mr. BUTTERFIELD changed his vote Bost Duffy Higgins (LA) Ellison Meeks Walz Brady (TX) Duncan (SC) Hill Engel Meng Wasserman from ‘‘no’’ to ‘‘aye.’’ Brat Duncan (TN) Holding Eshoo Moore Schultz So the amendment was rejected. Brooks (AL) Dunn Hollingsworth Espaillat Moulton Waters, Maxine The result of the vote was announced Brooks (IN) Emmer Hudson Esty (CT) Murphy (FL) Watson Coleman as above recorded. Buchanan Estes (KS) Huizenga Evans Nadler Welch Buck Farenthold Hultgren Foster Napolitano Yarmuth The Acting CHAIR. The question is Bucshon Faso Hunter on the amendment in the nature of a Budd Ferguson Hurd NOES—232 substitute, as amended. Burgess Fitzpatrick Issa Abraham Banks (IN) Bishop (UT) Byrne Fleischmann Jenkins (KS) Aderholt Barletta Black The amendment was agreed to. Calvert Flores Jenkins (WV) Allen Barr Blackburn The Acting CHAIR. Under the rule, Carter (GA) Foxx Johnson (LA) Amash Barton Blum the Committee rises. Carter (TX) Franks (AZ) Johnson (OH) Amodei Bergman Bost Accordingly, the Committee rose; Chabot Frelinghuysen Jones Arrington Biggs Brady (TX) Cheney Gaetz Jordan Babin Bilirakis Brat and the Speaker pro tempore (Mr. CAR- Coffman Gallagher Joyce (OH) Bacon Bishop (MI) Brooks (AL) TER of Georgia) having assumed the Cole Garrett Katko

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.101 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8209 Kelly (MS) Newhouse Shimkus Slaughter Titus Visclosky NATIONAL CYBER SECURITY Kelly (PA) Noem Shuster Smith (WA) Tonko Walz AWARENESS MONTH King (IA) Norman Simpson Soto Torres Wasserman King (NY) Nunes Smith (MO) Speier Tsongas Schultz (Mr. LANGEVIN asked and was given Kinzinger Olson Smith (NJ) Suozzi Vargas Waters, Maxine permission to address the House for 1 Knight Palazzo Swalwell (CA) Veasey Watson Coleman Smith (TX) minute and to revise and extend his re- Kustoff (TN) Palmer Smucker Takano Vela Welch ´ Labrador Paulsen Stefanik Thompson (MS) Velazquez Yarmuth marks.) LaHood Pearce Stewart Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, it is LaMalfa Perry NOT VOTING—11 Stivers Lamborn Peterson Bridenstine Lowenthal Smith (NE) National Cyber Security Awareness Taylor Lance Pittenger Fortenberry Richmond Thompson (CA) Month, and we have a lot of work to do Tenney Latta Poe (TX) Jeffries Rooney, Thomas Webster (FL) Thompson (PA) to better secure our Nation’s cyber- Lewis (MN) Poliquin Johnson, Sam J. Wilson (FL) space, and we cannot underestimate LoBiondo Posey Thornberry Long Ratcliffe Tiberi b 1827 these challenges. Loudermilk Reed Tipton During our district work period last Love Reichert Trott So the bill was passed. week, I took the opportunity to go on Turner Lucas Renacci The result of the vote was announced a cybersecurity tour to understand bet- Luetkemeyer Rice (SC) Upton as above recorded. MacArthur Roby Valadao ter what Rhode Island’s initiatives are. Marchant Roe (TN) Wagner A motion to reconsider was laid on During that time, I visited some of the Marino Rogers (AL) Walberg the table. Ocean State’s growing cybersecurity Marshall Rogers (KY) Walden Massie Rohrabacher Walker f companies, stopping by SecureWorks’ Mast Rokita Walorski Providence campus and speaking on a McCarthy Rooney, Francis Walters, Mimi REMOVAL OF NAMES OF MEM- panel at Carousel Industries’ AlwaysOn McCaul Ros-Lehtinen Weber (TX) BERS AS COSPONSORS OF H.R. McClintock Roskam Technology summit. Wenstrup McHenry Ross 3941 I learned about efforts to stem Westerman McKinley Rothfus Williams Ms. PINGREE. Mr. Speaker, I ask cybercrimes from the Rhode Island McMorris Rouzer State Police, and I joined Rhode Island Rodgers Royce (CA) Wilson (SC) unanimous consent that the following McSally Russell Wittman names be removed as cosponsors of the Secretary of State Nellie Gorbea at an Meadows Rutherford Womack bill, H.R. 3941: election security workshop for local of- Meehan Sanford Woodall Mr. CARBAJAL of California ficials. Messer Scalise Yoder Mitchell Schweikert Yoho Mr. PRICE of North Carolina At the Rhode Island Society of CPAs, Moolenaar Scott, Austin Young (AK) Ms. FUDGE of Ohio I encouraged our accountants to advise Mooney (WV) Sensenbrenner Young (IA) Mr. HUFFMAN of California their clients about cybersecurity risk, Mullin Sessions Zeldin Mr. VEASEY of Texas and I joined State Senator Lou NOES—187 Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD of California DiPalma to promote cyber hygiene ´ practices. Adams Ellison Luja´ n, Ben Ray Mr. CARDENAS of California Aguilar Engel Lynch Mr. LOEBSACK of Iowa Most importantly, I spoke to PTECH Barraga´ n Eshoo Maloney, The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. students and participants in Bass Espaillat Carolyn B. FASO). Is there objection to the request CyberPatriot about their importance Beatty Esty (CT) Maloney, Sean Bera Evans Matsui of the gentlewoman from Maine? as the next generation of cybersecurity Beyer Foster McCollum There was no objection. leaders. Bishop (GA) Frankel (FL) McEachin Mr. Speaker, cybersecurity may be Blumenauer Fudge McGovern f the national and economic security Blunt Rochester Gabbard McNerney Bonamici Gallego Meeks b 1830 challenge of the 21st century, but with Boyle, Brendan Garamendi Meng the talent that we have in Rhode Is- F. Gomez Moore PAYING TRIBUTE TO MONTANA land, I am confident that we can take Brady (PA) Gonzalez (TX) Moulton EDUCATOR, CRAIG WILSON Brown (MD) Gottheimer Murphy (FL) it on. Brownley (CA) Green, Al Nadler (Mr. GIANFORTE asked and was f Bustos Green, Gene Napolitano given permission to address the House Butterfield Grijalva Neal REMEMBERING THE LIFE OF SAM Capuano Gutie´rrez Nolan for 1 minute and to revise and extend Carbajal Hanabusa Norcross his remarks.) COKER Ca´ rdenas Hastings O’Halleran Mr. GIANFORTE. Mr. Speaker, I rise (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and Carson (IN) Heck O’Rourke Cartwright Higgins (NY) Pallone today to pay tribute to an educator was given permission to address the Castor (FL) Himes Panetta who touched the lives of thousands of House for 1 minute and to revise and Castro (TX) Hoyer Pascrell Montanans with his love for our State extend his remarks.) Chu, Judy Huffman Payne as well as his knowledge and passion Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speak- Cicilline Jackson Lee Pelosi Clark (MA) Jayapal Perlmutter for Montana politics. As one of Mon- er, I rise today to recognize the life of Clarke (NY) Johnson (GA) Peters tana’s foremost political scientists, Dr. Dr. Sam Coker, who passed away on Clay Johnson, E. B. Pingree Craig Wilson was well known across October 12, 2017, at 87 years of age. Cleaver Kaptur Pocan Clyburn Keating Polis the State and across both sides of the Dr. Coker was an active member of Cohen Kelly (IL) Price (NC) aisle. his community, serving as a church Connolly Kennedy Quigley For 34 years, Professor Wilson spent leader and board of trustee for 31 years Conyers Khanna Raskin his days in front of students in a class- at Young Harris College in Young Har- Cooper Kihuen Rice (NY) Correa Kildee Rosen room at Montana State University Bil- ris, Georgia. Costa Kilmer Roybal-Allard lings, helping them understand the First and foremost, he was a Meth- Courtney Kind Ruiz world in which they lived. odist minister, where he served at mul- Crist Krishnamoorthi Ruppersberger Crowley Kuster (NH) Rush He conducted reliable and respected tiple churches across Georgia. Dr. Cummings Langevin Ryan (OH) surveys that engaged Montanans on Coker’s dedication is exemplified by Davis (CA) Larsen (WA) Sa´ nchez issues that mattered most to them. His his multiple trips to Jerusalem, where Davis, Danny Larson (CT) Sarbanes method was honest and straight- he baptized friends and colleagues in DeFazio Lawrence Schakowsky DeGette Lawson (FL) Schiff forward, a welcome approach in today’s the Jordan River. Delaney Lee Schneider politics. In 2015, he was awarded the Young DeLauro Levin Schrader Craig was a loving husband to Harris College Artemas Lester Award DelBene Lewis (GA) Scott (VA) Demings Lieu, Ted Scott, David Kristianne, a proud father of Collin and for a lifetime of dedication to Christian DeSaulnier Lipinski Serrano Evan, and a doting grandfather to Blair service. Deutch Loebsack Sewell (AL) and Jett. Because of his love for education and Dingell Lofgren Shea-Porter Dr. Wilson was an educator in and others, he created the Gene Allison Doggett Lowey Sherman Doyle, Michael Lujan Grisham, Sinema out of the classroom. He was dearly Coker scholarship in honor of his late F. M. Sires loved and will be missed. wife. This scholarship enabled many

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.056 H25OCPT1 H8210 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 students to achieve higher education growing and a more competitive econ- Speaker of the House following the and attend Young Harris College. omy. signing of the new Constitution. Dr. Coker was a generous man, and f The caucus has more than 100 mem- he will be greatly missed. bers, and I urge all those who are inter- FILVETS f ested in joining to do so today during (Ms. GABBARD asked and was given German-American Heritage Month. TAX REFORM permission to address the House for 1 f (Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN asked and minute.) was given permission to address the Ms. GABBARD. Mr. Speaker, our DENOUNCING DOMESTIC VIOLENCE House for 1 minute.) country is forever grateful for the serv- (Mr. ESPAILLAT asked and was Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN. Mr. ice and sacrifice of the over 200,000 Fili- given permission to address the House Speaker, day after day, the President pino and Filipino-American soldiers for 1 minute.) and congressional Republicans have who bravely served our country during Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, yes- sought to frame their tax proposal as a World War II, heroes like Sixto Tabay, terday I was joined by many of our col- tax cut for hardworking middle class the last living Filipino World War II leagues to echo the pleas of over 100 families and not a tax cut for the veteran on the Island of Kauai, whom I women who came dressed as brides here wealthiest Americans, even going so had the good fortune to meet with re- to D.C. to put a face on the brutal mur- far as to say it will not add to the def- cently, people like him who fought der of Gladys Ricart, a victim of do- icit. Quite simply, they are trying to bravely and sacrificed greatly. mestic violence who was killed in 1999. sell the American people a dream that So many made the ultimate sacrifice Yesterday I said that I was Gladys will not become a reality. alongside our American troops in that Ricart and that we were all Gladys In New Jersey alone, 25 percent of war, yet their service for decades has Ricart. the residents will see their taxes in- gone unrecognized by our country. While this was happening, Mr. Speak- crease by $2,400, annually. That means Because of legislation that we passed, er, I am distressed to inform you that one in four New Jerseyans are affected today, a very special day, these war- a woman in my district in Inwood was by this failed strategy of trickle-down riors were finally receiving the rec- fatally stabbed to death and beaten economics. ognition that they earned and deserve, with a dumbbell by her long-time boy- These aren’t the very rich. I am talk- joining the heroic ranks of the likes of friend. Police officers found Claudina ing about New Jersey’s regular work- the Tuskegee Airmen and Hawaii’s own Cruz dead, with multiple stab wounds ing families. These New Jerseyans are 442nd 100th Infantry Battalion, as we to the torso and head trauma. a part of the 47 million Americans that honored them in the U.S. Capitol with She is also Gladys Ricart. We are all will see a tax increase. the Congressional Gold Medal, our Na- Gladys Ricart. This horrific tax reform plan and the tion’s highest civilian honor. I ask my colleagues to join me in de- rhetoric my Republican colleagues are To Major General Antonio Taguba, nouncing domestic violence for Gladys, using to garner support is simply fake the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Claudina, and every victim of domestic news. It is a tax break for the wealthi- Education Project, and all of our World violence across the country. Congress est Americans. War II Filipino veterans and their fam- must reauthorize the Violence Against I refuse to participate in the crip- ilies who worked so hard and were so Women Act when it comes before us pling of the middle class and the work- patient in making today a reality, next year. ing class and the halting of continued ‘‘thank you very much to all of you,’’ f growth of the American economy by ‘‘maraming salamat sa inyong lahat.’’ CELEBRATING THE 50TH ANNIVER- rubberstamping this billionaires-first f tax scheme. SARY OF THE MALCOM RAN- GERMAN-AMERICAN HERITAGE DALL VA MEDICAL CENTER f MONTH (Mr. YOHO asked and was given per- TAX REFORM LISTENING TOUR (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania mission to address the House for 1 (Mr. PAULSEN asked and was given asked and was given permission to ad- minute and to revise and extend his re- permission to address the House for 1 dress the House for 1 minute and to remarks.) minute and to revise and extend his revise and extend his remarks.) Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to cel- marks.) Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. ebrate the 50th anniversary of the Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, last Mr. Speaker, October is German-Amer- Malcom Randall VA Medical Center in week in Minnesota, I conducted a tax ican Heritage Month. I am co-chair of Gainesville, Florida. reform listening tour, visiting small the Congressional German-American Named after its first director, who businesses in our community about Caucus with Congressman BILL ran the hospital for 30 years, the why tax reform is so important. KEATING, and our caucus highlights Malcom Randall VA Center first Throughout the tour, it was evident German contributions to our country. opened its doors to our Nation’s vet- that these small businesses were en- It is estimated that 50 million Ameri- erans on October 22, 1967. Since then, it thusiastic that tax reform means more cans have German ancestry, and ac- has grown from its original staff of 500 jobs, higher wages, and a stronger cording to the U.S. Census Bureau, to be the centerpiece of our Nation’s economy. Germans are the largest single ethnic largest veterans health delivery sys- Diversified Plastics in Brooklyn group in the United States. tem. Park, an employee-owned company The caucus works to emphasize the Today, the Malcom Randall VA Cen- that manufactures and assembles plas- friendship and alliance between the ter serves over 140,000 veterans a year, tic injection products, said that being United States and Germany. We do so consists of 14 hospitals and clinics, and able to immediately expense new through an Oktoberfest networking acts as a teaching hospital in conjunc- equipment will allow them to invest event and through our support for pro- tion with the University of Florida more in their company and hire more grams like the Congress-Bundestag medical school and other affiliates. people. Youth Exchange internship program. The services Malcom Randall VA pro- Northstar Balloons in Plymouth, The caucus also discusses timely topics vides to our veterans cannot be over- which manufactures and distributes such as trade, security, and foreign af- stated, and I am proud to know that foil party balloons, said that a Tax fairs and how they relate to our Ger- this institution is in my hometown. Code that provides stability and pre- man counterparts. Once again, congratulations to them dictability will allow them to invest in In the Commonwealth of Pennsyl- for reaching this milestone. their company with confidence. vania, we have a proud German herit- f Mr. Speaker, the message was clear: age. Frederick Muhlenberg, a German fixing a broken Tax Code will help immigrant and Lutheran pastor from FEMA DENIALS small businesses hire more people, give Pennsylvania, whose family also found- (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was their employees a raise, and create a ed Muhlenberg College, was the first given permission to address the House

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.106 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8211 for 1 minute and to revise and extend a nuclear reactor that was destroyed can enjoy a sporting event or concert her remarks.) by Israel in 2007. comfortably without the usual burdens Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. Speaker, it is clear, North Korea they experience. This innovative ap- have often said that, even though the is a state sponsor of terrorism, so let’s proach has helped improve the quality sun is shining after hurricanes and let them officially wear the title along of these events for those with sensory storms, the people are still hurting. with their buddy, Iran. disorders across the country. Houston is resilient—and I might just And that is just the way it is. So far, several major venues in New say, ‘‘Go Astros’’—but I think it is im- f York have begun using these kits, in- portant to talk about those who are cluding the Veterans Memorial Arena impacted by Hurricane Harvey. b 1845 in Binghamton and the Carrier Dome I rise to help FEMA, because there is MIDDLE CLASS AMERICANS ARE in Syracuse. a large percentage of denials in my dis- SICK AND TIRED We are grateful to Life Is Washable trict. I believe that there should be a for the important steps their staff has (Mr. VEASEY asked and was given large promotion, if you will, informa- taken locally to reduce the burdens on permission to address the House for 1 tional provision to indicate to people those suffering from a sensory proc- minute and to revise and extend his re- the process for appealing FEMA deni- essing disorder. marks.) als. f Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, middle FEMA, itself, admits that many WE NEED TO BAN BUMP STOCKS times the denials are based upon tech- class Americans are sick and tired; nical issues, that they should go to dis- sick and tired of footing the bill so (Mrs. TORRES asked and was given aster recovery centers; but no one that rich-folk millionaires and billion- permission to address the House for 1 knows that if there is not a massive ef- aires can get another tax break. minute.) Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, it has fort of information, number one. The Republicans’ proposed tax re- Number two, there are still in the form plan is nothing but a tax cut for been almost 1 month since the mass thousands of homes in and around my rich folks. It translates to increasing shooting in Las Vegas occurred; 58 district and in Texas that are waiting taxes for the poor and middle class dead, more than 500 injured, many from for FEMA inspectors. families in our country. That means California—the deadliest shooting in I have offered suggestions. Those sug- that families already struggling to our history. And here we are, 1 month later, and gestions should be taken up: college make ends meet will have a tougher I am ashamed to say that this Congress students, using resources of finding time making that car note, that mort- has not taken a single action to pre- temporary employees, people who are gage, and gaining nothing in return. vent the next shooting. already working but may have the As a country, the GOP billionaire tax cut plan steals hundreds of billions of After the shooting, 64 Republicans skills to spend some hours as a FEMA signed a letter to ATF, asking ATF to inspector. dollars from the U.S. Treasury. That means that we can’t make crucial in- regulate bump stocks. ATF just noti- In my phone are so many pictures of fied us that it could not act. It could homes with garbage outside, people’s vestments in infrastructure, job training, or research and development that not act. The ball is back in our court. belongings. It is now garbage. It is Will those Members act now? Rep- their belongings. It is their life out on would help give people a good-paying job. resentative CICILLINE has introduced a the front steps of their home. They are commonsense bill to ban bump stocks. waiting for an inspector. The New York Reducing our tax base also translates into cuts to popular programs like If you signed the letter, you should co- Times article says they are waiting for sponsor the bill. It is that simple. What an inspector. Medicare. You know how much everybody likes that. are you waiting for? FEMA, let’s work together. People Mr. Speaker, there are some prob- are hurting. That should be part of our The American people want tax reform, but not a plan that would lit- lems that we cannot solve, but this one recovery and our appropriation coming is not one of those. up. erally jeopardize families’ livelihoods. We must put middle class families first f f in this country, and the GOP tax plan A FEDERAL GRANT PROGRAM TO NORTH KOREA HAS WON THE fails to do that. We can and must do PROVIDE A SAFE HAVEN FOR TITLE: A STATE SPONSOR OF better for the American people. COMPANION ANIMALS TERRORISM f (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN asked and was (Mr. POE of Texas asked and was LIFE IS WASHABLE PROVIDES given permission to address the House given permission to address the House FRIENDLY ACCESS SENSORY for 1 minute and to revise and extend for 1 minute.) SAFETY KITS her remarks.) Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, the Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, as saber-rattling rogue regime of North (Ms. TENNEY asked and was given we continue to shed light on domestic Korea should be back on the state permission to address the House for 1 violence during this month of October, sponsors of terrorism list, and here is minute and to revise and extend her re- I would like to highlight a bill, H.R. why: marks.) 909, the Pet and Women Safety Act. This year, the North Korean regime Ms. TENNEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise This necessary bipartisan legislation kidnapped, tortured, and killed Amer- today to recognize Life Is Washable, an introduced by my friend Representa- ican citizen Otto Warmbier. organization that provides comfort and tive KATHERINE CLARK and I will estab- In 2014, North Korea launched a cyber support to individuals suffering from lish a Federal grant program to provide terrorist attack against Sony Pictures. sensory processing disorders. a safe haven for the companion animals A U.S. court also found, in 2014, that Locally, through their partnership of domestic violence victims. North Korea materially supported ter- with the Jim and Juli Boeheim Foun- Studies show that almost half of do- rorist attacks by Hezbollah in Israel. dation, Life Is Washable provides mestic violence survivors do not leave In 2010, another court found that friendly access sensory safety kits at their abusive relationships out of fear North Korea provided support for the sporting events and concerts across the of what would happen to their beloved terrorist organization the Japanese region. pets. When less than 5 percent of do- Red Army for their 1972 attack at an Often, guests suffering from a sen- mestic violence shelters are able to Israeli airport. sory disorder or a medical condition house pets, it is no wonder why so In 2009 alone, there were three weap- that impacts the senses, including au- many victims choose to stay in these ons shipments from North Korea to tism or dementia, find it difficult to relationships for as long as they do. terrorist groups like Hezbollah and enjoy loud, brightly lit events. Our bill empowers these victims and Hamas. The tools in these kits range from gives them the necessary resources to U.S. officials have said North Korea earmuffs to antiglare glasses, and help help them step out of the shadow of aided Assad the Butcher by setting up ensure that those with sensory needs fear and uncertainty.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.108 H25OCPT1 H8212 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 Mr. Speaker, the Pet and Women Now we have the opportunity to re- Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, earlier Safety Act now enjoys the bipartisan form our Tax Code to help millions of this month, President Trump decerti- support of 237 of our colleagues. I en- Americans keep more of their hard- fied the Iran nuclear deal. Tonight, courage every Member of Congress to earned money, help small businesses during this hour, several Members of add their name to this legislation, and create millions of new jobs, and help Congress will be speaking here on the I ask our leadership to bring H.R. 909 millions rise out of poverty. House floor about the President’s cor- for a vote. Mr. Speaker, now is the time to act. rect and necessary decertification, and f Let’s get tax reform done and get tax discussing the urgent need to address relief to those who need it the most. Iran’s problematic nuclear and non- THE DEBT BETRAYAL nuclear activities. f (Mr. SOTO asked and was given per- The Joint Comprehensive Plan of Ac- mission to address the House for 1 BRING UP THE DREAM ACT tion, JCPOA, otherwise known as the minute.) (Mr. ENGEL asked and was given Iran nuclear deal, is deeply flawed and Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, in 2010, Tea permission to address the House for 1 very one-sided for what is in it, and it Party Republicans were swept into of- minute and to revise and extend his re- is fatally flawed and deeply one-sided fice on a passionate plea to eliminate marks.) for what is not in it. The so-called deal props up the wrong the deficit, to reduce the national debt, Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, there are regime in Iran, the world’s largest and to not pass on a great fiscal burden so many different issues. We are talk- state sponsor of terror, with a jackpot to our children. ing about tax reform, but I want to go Upon election, they boldly formed of $150 billion of sanctions relief. back to an issue we have talked about The United States made a slew of the Freedom Caucus, the fiscal watch- for several months now, and that is the dogs of the House. At the time, the na- permanent concessions in exchange for DREAMers. temporary concessions on the part of tional debt, in 2010, was $13 trillion, I rise today to call on the House lead- and many were deeply concerned about the Iranians—a point that comes into ership to bring up the Dream Act. The greater focus as the sunset provisions our Nation’s fiscal situation, and they DREAMers who came to this country made a promise to do everything in are analyzed. as children were brought by their par- This deal is not a pathway for how to their power to rein in wasteful spend- ents for a chance to pursue the Amer- ing and to get government’s fiscal prevent Iran from acquiring a nuclear ican Dream. weapon, it is a blueprint for exactly House in order. These young Americans go to our Now here we are in 2017, after nearly how Iran can acquire a nuclear weapon. colleges and universities. They are our We can and must do better. President 7 years of a Republican-controlled Con- teachers and doctors and serve in the Obama said this agreement was not gress, and the debt is over $20 trillion. military, and we cannot afford to built on trust, it was built on verifica- That is 7 years of a Republican-con- upend the lives and dreams of these tion. I am still waiting for an answer trolled Congress and $7 trillion in addi- 800,000 DACA recipients—people like on how you can support a deal based on tional debt. Andres, a DREAMer who lives in my verification without knowing what the Now we have a tax giveaway of an ad- district. He came to this country as a verification regime is. ditional $2.5 trillion to pass on to our child, and America is the only home he The verification agreement between children. I ask all the so-called fiscal knows. He attends school here, earned the IAEA and Iran still hasn’t been conservatives in this Chamber, all the his associate’s degree, and became a submitted to Congress, and Secretary so-called Freedom Caucus members, building engineer. He built his personal Kerry has admitted that he never read where is your big talk about the debt relationships in our country and con- it. now? Is your desire to claim a victory tributes every day to our society. His We have learned, though, that Iran worth betraying your deepest prin- work, his friends and family are all in collects some of their own soil samples ciples forever? the United States. It would be a cruel and inspects some of their own nuclear f mistake to force him to give all that sites. No U.S. inspectors are permitted THE GREATEST ANTIPOVERTY up and send him back to a country he to participate in any of these inspec- PROGRAM IN ALL OF HUMAN doesn’t know. tions at all. HISTORY Nearly 9 out of 10 Americans support The verification regime must become the DACA program. It is our responsi- adequate and transparent, and Ameri- (Mr. YODER asked and was given cans should know what the verification permission to address the House for 1 bility to the American people and to the hundreds of thousands of young agreement is. minute and to revise and extend his re- Since the JCPOA was entered into, marks.) DREAMers in this country to pass the Dream Act now. Iranian aggression in the Middle East, Mr. YODER. Mr. Speaker, I rise Iraq, Syria, and elsewhere has only in- today to talk about the greatest anti- Mr. Speaker, we should do so as soon as we can. creased. These bad activities have only poverty program in all of human his- gotten worse since all of the leverage tory: the free enterprise system. Maybe f that brought the Iranians to the table the most remarkable achievement in THE PRESIDENT’S CORRECT AND was negotiated away in the JCPOA. human history is the fact that, over NECESSARY DECERTIFICATION Iran has continued to illegally test the last 40 years, about 80 percent of OF THE JCPOA fire intercontinental ballistic missiles the world’s worst poverty has been and finance terror. They even seized eliminated. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under one of our naval vessels, subsequently We know the right combination of the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- holding hostage and publicly embar- smart investments in things like re- uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from New rassing 10 American sailors. search, education, infrastructure, and York (Mr. ZELDIN) is recognized for 60 Iran has committed to wiping Israel defense; fewer burdensome regulations; minutes as the designee of the major- off the map, and they chant, ‘‘Death to and simpler and fairer taxes creates ity leader. America,’’ in their streets on their the perfect environment for growth and GENERAL LEAVE holidays, all while unjustly impris- innovation. Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I ask oning American citizens. They call So far this year, we have secured in- unanimous consent that all Members Israel ‘‘the little Satan’’ and America vestments in things like boosting pro- may have 5 legislative days within ‘‘the great Satan.’’ These are, unfortu- grams for early childhood education which to revise and extend their re- nately, just a few of Iran’s bad activi- and Head Start, and medical research marks and include extraneous material ties. at the NIH. We have done away with on the topic of my Special Order. It is so important to note that Iran job-killing regulations, saving hard- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there has not only violated the spirit of the working Americans billions in compli- objection to the request of the gen- nuclear deal with its nonnuclear bad ance costs and millions of hours in pa- tleman from New York? activities, it has also violated the let- perwork. There was no objection. ter of the deal. For example, Iran spins

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.111 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8213 more IR6 centrifuges than they are al- seas to protect American families at As we have seen, Iran continues to be lowed to under the JCPOA. They have home. the world’s largest state sponsor of ter- assembled more IR8 rotor assemblies President Donald Trump’s decision to rorism, and the IRGC has known con- than they are allowed to. They have at- decertify the Iranian deal was correct. nections to Hezbollah in Lebanon and tempted to acquire carbon fiber that President Trump is protecting Amer- Hamas in Gaza. they agreed that they wouldn’t. They ican families. The deal was reckless Over these past few years, we have stockpiled more heavy water than they and dangerous from the start; it never seen these terrorist proxy groups carry were supposed to under the JCPOA. served the interests of American fami- out attacks on American troops and in- Iran is also not allowing any inspec- lies; and it threatened the safety and nocent Israeli civilians. In addition, tions at all at any of their military security of America and our allies in Iran has gained access to over $100 bil- sites. Iran is not only violating the the region, from Israel to southeastern lion in previously frozen assets, ena- spirit of the deal, but they are also vio- Europe, Greece, Bulgaria, and Roma- bling the money to be funneled to var- lating the letter of the deal. nia. ious terrorist organizations. President Trump was absolutely cor- I am grateful to join Members of the From the frequent ballistic missile rect to decertify the JCPOA. If Iran is House, especially my colleagues on the tests to supporting terrorism and fund- serious about helping turn the JCPOA House Foreign Affairs Committee, in ing proxies, such as Lebanon, Syria, into a truly reasonable agreement, promoting the fight against global ter- and Yemen, Iran has escalated its ag- then they should make those inten- rorism. This includes tougher sanc- gressive behavior since the deal was tions clear, both in private conversations like those being considered by signed just 2 years ago. tions with the United States and the the House that target Hezbollah and its Ultimately, this deal temporarily other countries of the P5+1, but also in financiers in Tehran, and it includes pushes back Iran’s ability to build up their public rhetoric. Many of Iran’s working together with President its nuclear infrastructure and does not other bad activities will need to cease. Trump’s administration that is com- cease the Iranian regime’s ambition to If Iran does not want to save the mitted to peace through strength. become nuclear after 15 years. The bad JCPOA, then the sanctions should im- I am grateful to thank Congressman deal, therefore, ushers Iran into a nu- mediately ramp up. LEE ZELDIN from New York, an appre- clear club, where it can continue to Throughout this next hour, we will ciated Iraq veteran, for his leadership test uranium pathways and pursue il- discuss the President’s correct decision and for being firm with the Iranian re- licit nuclear materials, unbeknownst to decertify, as well as the urgent need gime, which subjugates its extraor- to the IAEA. to eliminate Iran’s problematic nuclear dinary people. President Obama entered that poorly and nonnuclear activities. As the father of four sons who have crafted agreement using unilateral ex- served our country overseas, I want to ecutive authority, quite frankly, cir- b 1900 say once again: God bless our troops, cumventing the consent of Congress Joining me tonight are Members of and we will never forget September the and disregarding the will of the Amer- Congress from all across our great 11th in the global war on terrorism. ican people. As we have seen, this was country who are deeply passionate Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank clearly a bad deal from day one. It does about America’s best interests and sup- Congressman WILSON for his continued not stop Iran’s path to obtaining a nu- portive of the President’s decision to leadership. clear weapon, but, rather, paves it. decertify the Iran nuclear deal. Mr. Speaker, at this time, it is my As we work in Congress to implement At this time, it is my great pleasure privilege to bring up a freshman from further sanctions against the Iranian to welcome the distinguished gen- Tennessee’s Eighth Congressional dis- regime, we must work toward a strat- tleman from South Carolina, Mr. JOE trict, DAVID KUSTOFF. Last Congress, I egy that protects our allies in the Mid- WILSON, a leader on the House Foreign had the privilege of being both the low- dle East and effectively prevents Iran Affairs Committee and throughout all est-ranking Jewish Republican in Con- from obtaining nuclear weapons. We of Congress, who oftentimes has been gress and the highest-ranking Jewish must remain vigilant against those to the Middle East, who is a grandson Republican in Congress. But now that who wish to inflict harm on America, of a veteran, a son of a veteran, and a we have DAVID KUSTOFF from Ten- and stand united with our allies around proud father of four veterans. nessee here, we voted for each other to the world. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman chair the Jewish Republican Caucus of Mr. Speaker, again, I thank Con- from South Carolina (Mr. WILSON). two, and 1 day we may have a minion. gressman ZELDIN for his leadership. Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. These are our dreams that someday Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank Speaker, I thank Congressman ZELDIN may come true. Congressman KUSTOFF for his impor- for his leadership. We sincerely appre- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman tant, insightful words. ciate his leadership for American fami- from Tennessee (Mr. KUSTOFF). Mr. Speaker, it is my pleasure at this lies, particularly based on his service Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee. Mr. time to introduce the gentleman from in Iraq. Speaker, I thank Congressman ZELDIN Florida’s Third Congressional District. Mr. Speaker, on October 23, 1983, an for his leadership on this very impor- He is an important voice on the House otherwise peaceful Sunday morning in tant issue. Foreign Affairs Committee, very Beirut, Lebanon, there was, tragically, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to applaud learned on these issues related to Iran a disruption of a suicide truck bomb the President’s decision to decertify and the Middle Eastern region espe- that crashed into the Marine Corps the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Ac- cially, and a great Member here in Con- barracks, killing 241 courageous U.S. tion, or what is known as the Iran deal. gress. Marines. This was the deadliest attack, This deeply-flawed Iran deal has Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman 21,000 pounds of TNT, since the U.S. failed to prevent the Iranian regime from Florida (Mr. YOHO). Marines were in the Battle of Iwo from ballistic missile testing and over- Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I appreciate Jima. Investigators determined that all hostility that threatens American the leadership of Mr. ZELDIN and I ap- Hezbollah, an Iran-backed terrorist or- national security interests. Quite preciate him using that word ganization that has targeted America frankly, this was a bad idea from day ‘‘learned.’’ It feels good. and our allies for decades, was respon- one. You know, this is an interesting sible for the attack. Most recently, on September 23, 2017, thing, because I was there during the The 34th anniversary of the Beirut Iran test-fired a new long-range missile time that John Kerry and the Presi- attack serves as a solemn reminder that could carry multiple warheads, dent were negotiating this deal. that we have a responsibility to defeat and is the country’s third test of a mis- Keep in mind, this is a deal that John Hezbollah and radical Islamic terror- sile with a range of approximately 1,240 Kerry and the President agreed to, but ists across the globe, many of whom miles. nobody signed. We didn’t sign it, our are financed by Iran, all the way from An Iranian news agency further stat- Senate never voted on it, and Iran Niger to the Philippines. It is impor- ed how this missile ‘‘adds to Israel’s didn’t sign it. So this is a deal in paper tant that we defeat the terrorists over- misery and will be their nightmare.’’ only that nobody has signed. If you

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.112 H25OCPT1 H8214 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 were to do any business transaction in John Kerry said: No deal is better deal told the American people that this the real world, this piece of paper than a bad deal. deal would lead to a more open Iran, would be worthless. This is a bad deal. The President with a renewed acceptance of diverse I want to mention words of one of our should decertify it. It does not take us voices and opinions from within. previous Presidents. It has been about out of the deal, but it allows us to put b 1915 60 years after President Dwight Eisen- the pressure back on Iran so that they hower announced that Atoms for Peace are fully compliant with the letter of Mr. Speaker and my colleagues, there Program, and one lesson is clear: ‘‘Ci- the law. have been already over 450 executions vilian nuclear programs flourish only If we don’t hold up people to the let- in Iran this year alone. Obviously, the through cooperation and openness. Se- ter of the law as we move forward in so-called moderates within the regime crecy and isolation typically are signs future negotiations, i.e., North Korea, with whom we negotiated the Iran nu- of a nuclear weapons program.’’ why should they follow the letter of clear deal either aren’t as moderate as So here we are. I have in front of me the law? we thought or are simply irrelevant in the Institute for Science and Inter- So this is high time that we do this. this regime. national Security, August 31, 2017, and I appreciate it, and I thank the gen- The American people were told fur- in the introduction, it says: ‘‘One of tleman for doing this. ther that the Iran nuclear deal would the most serious compliance issues Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, Congress- bring Iran into the fold and make the concerns the IAEA’s access to military man YOHO brings up some very impor- nation a more productive, contributing sites and credible verification of Sec- tant points. The Iran nuclear deal was member of the international commu- tion T, which prohibits key nuclear an unsigned political commitment. nity. weapons development activities and Those were the words that were given Sadly, but not surprisingly, Iran’s controls dual-use equipment poten- to us by the administration, and to transgressions in the region continue tially usable in such activities. In this think that we wouldn’t have even to be appalling. The Iranian regime is report, the issue of verifying Section T asked for a signature on something so expanding its malicious network of is discussed. The absence of credible important was foolish. control through increased financial and implementation and verification of The next speaker tonight in this im- military support for terrorist organiza- Section T undermines the effectiveness portant Special Order in support of tions, including Hezbollah and Hamas. of the JCPOA.’’ President Trump’s decision to decer- In Syria, the Iranian Revolutionary My colleague, Mr. ZELDIN, brought up tify the Iran nuclear deal and the need Guard Corps has provided fighters and that we know they are using IR–6 and to address Iran’s other problematic nu- expertise to the brutal Assad regime IR–8 centrifuges. We know they have clear and non-nuclear activities is a that gases and brutalizes its own citi- the carbon fibers that they are not sup- freshman from my home State of New zens. Iran has shown no signs that it is posed to have. We also know that they York, someone I served with in the interested in pursuing peace or even have overproduced heavy water more New York State Legislature, and we curbing its malevolent behaviors. than two times. The first time, we are really excited to have her here Chants of ‘‘death to America and bought it at the American taxpayers’ serving with us in the Halls of Con- ‘‘death to Israel’’ continue as Iran rap- expense. The other two times, it has gress. She has hit the ground running idly develops its missile program and gone to Russia. The only reason you and is very passionate about our mili- engages in proxy conflicts with the would have an excess of heavy water is tary, our veterans, and also especially U.S. and our allies. if you are producing nuclear fissile ma- why we are here tonight, the path for- I thank the President and my col- terial. leagues, as I indicated, especially Con- In addition to that, the heavy ward with regards to Iran. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentle- gressman LEE ZELDIN from New York, water—the inspections that we are sup- for continuing to shine the light on posed to do anytime, anywhere,—John woman from New York’s 22nd Congres- this important national security issue. Kerry said this over and over—any- sional District (Ms. TENNEY). Ms. TENNEY. Mr. Speaker, I am Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank time, anywhere, that we can go, and if grateful to Congressman ZELDIN. Obvi- Congresswoman TENNEY for being here, they are noncompliant, the sanctions for her remarks this evening, and for will snap back. They must have used ously, we, from New York, all are so her leadership on this important deal. an overstretched rubber band because proud for his service as an Iraq vet- It is my pleasure at this time to yield nothing has ever snapped back. eran, and also for his leadership in With the IAEA supposedly being able serving both in the State Senate and to Congressman ANDY BARR, who is a to inspect anywhere, there are so many also representing our great State in leader on the House Financial Services places that are off limits. It is only the House of Representatives on this Committee. He has been very active in those areas that Iran says that we can very important issue. the efforts as it relates to sanctions. It go in and inspect. Parchin military site Mr. Speaker, on October 13, President is also important to note that it was is a place that we know they detonated Trump made the informed decision to sanctions that brought the Iranians to a nuclear trigger. We have not been decertify the Joint Comprehensive the table, and applied an incredible able to go in there and check the soil, Plan of Action, the JCPOA—or I am amount of economic pressure. Yet we have to accept their word that going to refer to it as the Iran nuclear The Iranian regime that is in charge they are checking the soil. deal—and to develop, for the first time, desperately needed relief in order to I brought this up in the committee, a holistic strategy to address the Ira- get through their next election, and and I am going to repeat it here. It nian menace. I applaud this sound now the Iranians have had an oppor- would be like having a drug addict choice, which prioritizes the safety and tunity to experience life with that testing his own urine sample and tak- security of our citizens and the Amer- sanctions regime and life without it. ing it to the lab. It is just not the way ican homeland. Chairman BARR is a very important to do business in the 21st century on Predictably, the flawed deal with voice here in the Halls of Congress for something that is so important. Iran has done nothing to stem that ensuring the right leverage is on the During that time, when we nego- rogue nation’s aggression and mis- table to deal with Iran’s nuclear and tiated or when the deal was being nego- behavior domestically, in the Middle non-nuclear activities. tiated, there was an intelligence re- East, and throughout the globe. Quite Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman port—I don’t know if you were in the to the contrary, by front-loading the from Kentucky (Mr. BARR). Congress then, but there was an intel- benefits to Iran, the Iran nuclear deal Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, I thank Con- ligence report that had always had Iran is funding these destabilizing and dan- gressman ZELDIN for his leadership on as a state sponsor of terror. The year gerous activities. this issue; his voice in criticism of this this deal was done, state sponsor of ter- Human rights abuses continue flawed nuclear deal with Iran; and, of ror was taken off. And when we ques- against the Iranian people as citizens course, for his valiant service to the tioned about it, they said it was an who dare to speak out against the op- United States in the military. oversight. This deal just stinks from pressive regime face imprisonment or I rise tonight in strong support of the the beginning. abuse. Supporters of the Iran nuclear President’s decision to decertify this

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.114 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8215 deeply flawed JCPOA, the Iran nuclear signed for New York City; for Wash- On April 4, we held a hearing on the deal under the Iran Nuclear Agreement ington, D.C.; for Atlanta, Georgia; for effectiveness of non-nuclear sanctions Review Act. I agree with the Presi- Los Angeles, California; and for Se- against Iran, where we determined that dent’s finding that Iran is not trans- attle, Washington; and for Chicago. Iran Air, a state-owned commercial parently, not verifiably, and not fully Our homeland security has been jeop- airline, has used its aircraft to trans- implementing the agreement. I agree ardized because of this fatally flawed port fighters and weapons throughout with the President’s finding that con- agreement. Iran will receive a sanc- the Middle East on behalf of the Is- tinued sanctions relief is not in the tions relief jackpot. They have already lamic Revolutionary Guard Corp. As a vital security interest of the United received upwards of $100 billion so far. result of these findings, I wrote a letter States. In my capacity as the chairman of the to Treasury Secretary Mnuchin urging That is because the Obama adminis- subcommittee that oversees sanctions, him to ban the sale of commercial air- tration’s nuclear deal with Iran was a oversees the Treasury Department’s craft to Iran Air. dangerous and historic mistake. The implementation of sanctions, I can say Similarly, I supported two appropria- deal provided the mullahs in Tehran that we have heard it. We have heard tions amendments that would prevent with roughly $100 billion in upfront the reporting that, as a result of this the sale of aircraft to Iran and prohibit sanctions relief in exchange for Iran’s agreement, Iran has not become paci- U.S. firms from financing such a sale. promise, future promise, to tempo- fied. Iran has actually accelerated its Finally, I recently drafted a letter to rarily pause its enrichment program. support for terrorist proxies in Leb- the Treasury Department urging it to Unfortunately, the agreement con- anon, Gaza, Syria, Iraq, Yemen, and identify all entities it believes to have tained fatally deficient verification Nigeria. Because Iran’s neighbors know transacted business with the IRGC, a protocols and the International Atomic that this deal reverses a decades-long precursor to possible additional sec- Energy Agency now concedes that it bipartisan policy blocking Iran’s nu- ondary sanctions. has no capacity to verify that Tehran clear program, this agreement con- These actions are all important and is engaged in activities which could tinues to risk a nuclear arms race in relevant in the aftermath of the Presi- contribute to the development of a nu- the broader Middle East. dent’s correct decision to decertify the clear explosive device. That is because They are apologists. There are de- deal because it invites Congress to step under the terms of the agreement, the fenders of the Iran nuclear deal, and in and offer constructive recommenda- very terms of the JCPOA, inter- they say it is working. They say there tions on how to address the flaws, the national inspectors are barred from ac- is evidence of dismantling of the nu- fatal flaws, in the JCPOA. These are cessing Iran’s military sites where elic- clear program, but we have the benefit some of those recommendations to the it nuclear activities are most likely of almost 2 years of implementation of administration, and we hope the Treas- taking place. the deal. We have the benefit of hind- ury Department will respond accord- President Obama’s promise that sight to see if this deal is actually ingly. there would be ‘‘anytime, anywhere in- working. Going forward, we must do the fol- spections,’’ but that promise was re- Here are the facts. The facts are that lowing to stem Iran’s nuclear ambi- placed with ‘‘managed access’’ to sus- since the Joint Comprehensive Plan of tions: We must designate the IRGC as a pect nuclear sites in which inter- Action was implemented in January of foreign terrorist organization. We must national inspectors must appeal to 2016, Iran has continued to sponsor make permanent the sunset clauses on Hezbollah and other radical terrorist Iran, Russia, and China in a bureau- Iran’s nuclear program and testing. militias in the region. Its support for cratic process that would take days This cannot be temporary prohibition the Assad regime alone, including the during which Iran could remove any- of the Iran nuclear program. This must use of planes to airlift military sup- thing covert and in violation of the be a permanent ban on Iran ever hav- plies, has helped claim an estimated 400 agreement. ing nuclear weapons capability and the lives. Last April, even President As Congressman ZELDIN correctly capability of delivering those weapons. Obama suggested that the Iranians pointed out, we don’t even know what Finally, we need to do a better job were violating the spirit of the deal by the verification protocols actually are strengthening the agreement, revising engaging in these activities. the agreement, scrapping the old agree- because we haven’t been able to access Rather than being deterred, in Octo- ment, and actually getting to anytime, the secret agreement between inter- ber, Iran sentenced three Americans to anywhere inspections. That means we national inspectors, non-U.S. inspec- long prison terms on bogus charges. In have got to work with the P5+1 and our tors, and the leadership in Tehran. January of this year, the country test- But the most serious concern is not ed a ballistic missile in violation of European allies to revise the JCPOA so that Iran would cheat. It is that even if U.N. Security Council resolution 2231. that we mandate anytime, anywhere Iran is fully complying with this agree- In April, just as a commercial airline inspections of nuclear facilities, and so ment, bad outcomes are guaranteed. manufacturer was announcing new that we are guaranteed that the IAEA, First, Iran will be allowed an arsenal of sales to Iran as a result of the sanc- that international and U.S. inspectors nuclear weapons in as little as 10 years. tions relief under the JCPOA, we have access to all suspected sites with- Under the very terms of this agree- learned that dozens of Syrian civilians, in the territorial boundaries of Iran. ment, Iran was not denied a nuclear including at least 11 children, were In conclusion, I want to thank Con- weapon. The path was paved for Iran to gassed in an Iranian-supported chem- gressman ZELDIN for the Special Order. have an arsenal of nuclear weapons ical weapons attack. I want to thank President Trump and with international sanction. Additionally, Iran has stated that it his administration for their leadership Iran was not required to dismantle will no longer permit inspections of its on stopping Iran from obtaining nu- key bomb-making technology. It was military bases. It continues to attempt clear weapons, and for the important permitted to retain vast enrichment to intimidate our allies, and is facili- national security imperative of revis- capacity, and it was allowed to con- tating the imports and exports of arms. iting this flawed Iran nuclear deal so tinue research and development on ad- As of February 2017, Iran has fired as that we can actually achieve peace in vanced centrifuges, and it will be al- many as 14 ballistic missiles, and the the world. lowed to continue to acquire inter- leaders of Iran continue to chant Mr. Speaker, we thank Congressman continental ballistic missiles. Inter- ‘‘death to America,’’ and pledge to wipe ZELDIN for his leadership in pursuing continental ballistic missiles. Israel off the face of the planet. this very important objective. Why do you need intercontinental So where do we go from here? Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank ballistic missiles if you have peaceful As the chairman of the subcommittee the gentleman for his remarks. Cer- designs for your nuclear program? that oversees enforcement of sanctions, tainly in the days, the weeks, the Those of you who are listening at we have been working on additional months that are ahead, many through- home across America, remember this: measures that can be taken, including out our country will be leaning on his an intercontinental ballistic missile is non-nuclear sanctions consistent with leadership as we discuss the path for- not a missile designed for Tel Aviv. An the JCPOA to hold Iran accountable ward as far as sanctions and the right intercontinental ballistic missile is de- for its malign activities. way to reestablish the leverage that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.116 H25OCPT1 H8216 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 brought the Iranians to the table in the tinue their ballistic missile research, years on this very important issue on first place. and it contains a sunset provision that the need to hold Iran accountable and Mr. Speaker, Congressman ROKITA is will allow the Iranians to return imme- to fight for the best possible agreement a strong voice in ensuring that Amer- diately to enriching uranium without for the United States. ica has a strong but effective foreign consequence. Over the course of tonight, we dis- policy, one that makes sure that our Now, even then-Secretary of State cussed what was in the JCPOA, and we military is always set up for success, John Kerry said: ‘‘Some of the $150 bil- discussed the JCPOA as far as what our veterans are taken care of when lion will end up in the hands of the Is- wasn’t in it and some of the challenges they come home. As I mentioned ear- lamic Revolutionary Guard Corps or that we have faced since the JCPOA lier, as I was introducing Congress- other entities, some of which are la- has first been entered into. woman TENNEY, part of that effort, cer- beled terrorists.’’ We all want to deal with Iran’s bad tainly is ensuring the right path for- That was our Secretary of State’s di- activities. We have to ask ourselves: ward as it relates to Iran. rect quote admitting that some of this How are we going to do that? What is Mr. Speaker, at this time, I yield to $150 billion was going to get to terror- the leverage that brought the Iranians the gentleman from Indiana (Mr. ists. to the table to negotiate the Iran nu- ROKITA), from Indiana’s Fourth Con- There is no situation in which the clear deal? How do we get that leverage gressional District. United States should allow money to back? Mr. ROKITA. Mr. Speaker, I thank get to terrorists. Hoosiers that I rep- Now, some people out there are say- the gentleman from New York for resent see this quite clearly. Surely, ing that Iran is abiding by their word yielding and for hosting this Special the Americans that the rest of us rep- and that the United States would Order. In my humble opinion, the peo- resent see the same thing. But then- somehow be going back on our word by ple of New York are lucky to have a President Obama and Secretary Kerry the President decertifying the Iran nu- gentleman like him representing them; allowed this to happen and were clear deal. We can have a discussion and I know it is the highest honor of cheered on, in fact, by many in this about what violates the spirit of the his life as well. very Chamber and many in the Senate. Iran nuclear deal. We talked about Iran’s other bad ac- I also want to associate with my This year alone, Iran has tested their tivities: their financing of terror, their good friend, the gentleman from Ken- ballistic missiles at least three times, overthrowing of foreign governments, tucky (Mr. BARR), for the remarks he and they tested a rocket space launch illegally test-firing intercontinental made. I think he has made an excellent vehicle. Now, in their most recent test ballistic missiles, holding Americans in September, they used a ballistic record of not only the premise of the hostage, and publicly embarrassing missile with the potential range to hit deal, but the effect of the deal so far. American Navy sailors. We had to pay Israel, the only stable democracy in Mr. Speaker, I agree with the gen- a ransom to get hostages back in Janu- the region. tleman from New York that Mr. BARR ary of 2016. They call Israel the Little As Mr. BARR pointed out, Mr. Speak- is going to be critical in leading the ef- Satan, America the Great Satan. They er, intercontinental ballistic missiles fort forward in sanctions, whether they pledge to wipe Israel off the map. They aren’t even meant for Israel. They are are part of the JCPOA or not. I thank chant ‘‘death to America.’’ They are meant to come here. They are meant to the gentleman from Kentucky for his supporting Assad in Syria and go to our other allies—a bad deal in- words tonight as well. Hezbollah. Earlier this month, President Trump deed. What do we do to deal with Iran’s set a new direction for the United The threats Iran poses are truly ex- nonnuclear bad activities? Right now States, a direction of leadership. He treme: terrorists, a nuclear arms race, we don’t have the leverage to deal with made clear that we would no longer and continued threats to America and that. We really needed to bring that to allow the Iranian Government to con- its neighbors. Unfortunately, we can- the table when we were sitting down tinue to pursue nuclear weapons, con- not go back in time and stop then- with Iran last time because, when you tinue funding terrorism, or threaten President Obama from signing this dis- negotiate away the leverage that the very existence of our great friend, astrous Iran nuclear deal—and, by the brings them to the table, what is left Israel, the strongest ally we have in way, it is signing in the theoretical to deal with all of those activities that the region. sense because Mr. YOHO is also right, we would say violate the spirit of the President Trump made clear that, Mr. Speaker, when he said that this JCPOA? unlike the previous administration, we was a set of papers that truly had no But people say that if the President will not reward Iran for chanting signatories. It was an executive action decertifies the Iran nuclear deal, then ‘‘death to America,’’ and we will not by then-President Obama for sure. But, that would mean that we are going allow this terrorist regime to dictate all in all, no matter what the seman- back on our word and that Iran has our Nation’s foreign policy. tics, it was a bad deal. been abiding by the deal. We cannot Getting the Iran deal done was the But we can—we can—move forward forget about all of the ways that Iran only thing the previous administration by creating tough sanctions like, Mr. is violating the letter of the JCPOA. cared about. Think about that, just Speaker, Mr. BARR was pointing out Why is there no accountability in de- getting the deal done. I think we all re- and making sure Iran is held account- bate, as we know, that Iran spins more member that sentiment around here: able. That starts tonight with the work IR–6 centrifuges than they are per- getting the deal done no matter how that LEE ZELDIN and other Members of mitted to under the JCPOA? Why terrible was the only thing the pre- Congress are doing. aren’t we talking about that? vious administration cared about. We Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman Why aren’t we saying that Iran is not had to get the deal done. We had to get from New York again for yielding to following their word when they assem- the deal done, as bad as it was. me, and I thank him for his leadership. ble more IR–8 rotor assemblies than Mr. Speaker, let’s get it right this b 1930 they are allowed to under the JCPOA? time. Let’s make sure Iran doesn’t be- Why aren’t we saying that Iran is not It is unlike our current President come the threat that the previous ad- following through with their word as who has demanded action to hold Iran ministration has allowed it to become. they attempt to purchase carbon fiber accountable, guarantee our national Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank that they are not allowed to try to pur- security, and protect Israel and our al- Congressman ROKITA for being here and chase under the JCPOA? lies across the world night and day. I for his important words as well and for Why are we giving Iran a free pass? appreciate the President’s leadership all of the Members who have spoken. Does the President’s opposition de- on this and other matters. I recognize House Foreign Affairs spise him so much that they are will- The United States never should have Committee Chairman ED ROYCE, Con- ing to literally take Iran’s side when signed onto the deal in the first place, gressman PETE ROSKAM, and former Iran says that we will never be able to Mr. Speaker, because it was a bad deal. Congressman, now CIA Director, Mike inspect any of their military sites? It gave Iran immediate access to $150 Pompeo. These are some of the voices Before, during, and after this deal, billion, it allowed the Iranians to con- during the course of these last few they said that we will never be able to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.117 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8217 inspect all their military sites. The January on the same exact day within I had disagreements with President Obama administration said we will in- 24 hours of each other. Obama, but he was my President. We spect their military sites. So you have Now, after we provided a jackpot of disagreed on the Iran nuclear deal. a material disagreement on this sanctions relief in exchange for this That is okay. We can disagree. We JCPOA, this Iran nuclear deal. very one-sided deal, there was an elec- should disagree with President Trump, We said that sanctions were going to tion. After that election in Iran, mem- President Obama, President Bush be- be phased in over time based on com- bers of the American media and around fore that, when we have strong philo- pliance. The Iranian regime said sanc- the world said that this was evidence of sophical differences on policy. That is tions relief was going to be immediate, progress in Iran that the most mod- what we are elected to do. We are not no suspension. But why are we not erate candidates were elected. elected to all just come here and agree holding Iran to their word on the ways But do you know what that com- with each other. that they are violating the letter of the pletely ignores? The 12,000 most mod- But for those who are so set politi- JCPOA? erate candidates not being allowed ac- cally on trying to bring this President Why is it that before implementation cess to the ballot. We are propping up down, so much so that they will take day when inspectors, the last time they the wrong regime. Iran’s side in this over the United got to Parchin and they found particles After our American sailors were de- States’ side, I encourage you to in the soil that are consistent with nu- tained, held hostage, and embarrassed rethink that and put country over clear capability, and then after we dis- in videos and photography all around party, because we need to work to- cover those particles the Iranians say, the world, we said, ‘‘Thank you.’’ That gether as colleagues representing the ‘‘That is it. No more access to was our response, ‘‘Thank you.’’ greatest country in the world on a bet- After all the concessions that were Parchin,’’ why are we not saying that ter path forward. made as part of the JCPOA, our Sec- Iran is not following their commit- It is a privilege for all of us to be able retary of State became president for ments under the JCPOA? This is the to serve here in the United States Cap- the Tehran Chamber of Commerce, and letter of the JCPOA. itol in the United States Congress, be- here we are. Fast-forward to today, and Now, it would be great if we can have cause there is so much history on this everyone who wants to see this Presi- a discussion here about what the verifi- floor. There is going to be much debate dent fail will stand with Iran before cation regime is. I would love to read ahead on what challenges lie ahead for they would stand with the United the deal between the IAEA and Iran. us with regard to Iran. States. They will ignore Iran’s vio- When I was at a House Foreign Affairs With servicemembers in harm’s way, lating the spirit of the JCPOA. They Committee hearing with then-Sec- we understand and we reflect that that will turn a blind eye with their head in retary of State John Kerry and I want- is what is most important. We should the sand over Iran’s violating the let- ed to engage with him, have a con- never send our troops into harm’s way ter of the JCPOA. versation about what the verification Mr. Speaker, we gathered here this unless they are sent to win. We send agreement was, I was shocked that evening to talk about the President’s our troops to win, or we do not send even he said that he hadn’t read the correct decision to decertify the them at all. When they come home, verification regime between the IAEA JCPOA, the Iran nuclear agreement, they are treated with the love, dignity, and Iran. It really makes you scratch and to talk about the need to eliminate and respect that they deserve on behalf your head. Iran’s very problematic nuclear and of a very grateful nation; and with a I asked the question here on the nonnuclear activities. We heard from a strong, consistent foreign policy and House floor last Congress while we half dozen other Members of Congress: taking care of our vets and setting up were debating the JCPOA. President Congressman JOE WILSON of South our military for success. It is having Obama says that we are entering into Carolina’s 2nd Congressional District, the right foreign policy with challenges the JCPOA not based on trust, but DAVID KUSTOFF of Tennessee’s 8th Con- that are in front of us in the Middle based on verification. So the question gressional District, Congressman TED East and elsewhere. that I posed then, and I still haven’t YOHO of Florida’s 3rd Congressional That is why we are here for this Spe- gotten an answer today, is: How do you District, Congresswoman CLAUDIA cial Order hour in support of the Presi- support a deal based on verification TENNEY of New York’s 22nd Congres- dent’s decision to decertify the Iran without knowing what the verification sional District, Congressman ANDY nuclear deal. Mr. President, you made is? BARR of Kentucky’s 6th Congressional the right decision. We stand with you. We are propping up the wrong re- District, and Congressman TODD We stand with the United States. We gime. In 2009, during the Green Revolu- ROKITA of Indiana’s 4th Congressional want to hold Iran accountable. We tion, an undemocratic election, mil- District. I thank them, and I thank all want the best path forward for our lions of Iranians went to the streets. of my colleagues for their leadership great country. These are people who go to the streets on this issue. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance that right now there are people—mil- There is important work ahead. of my time. lions of Iranians today—who would There really should be more Members f love a free, stable, democratic Iran. on both sides of the aisle working to- After an undemocratic election, they PROGRESSIVE CAUCUS: AMERICAN gether on behalf of the American peo- IDEALS went to the streets. We said that it was ple putting country first on this issue. none of our business. People since the election pledged to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Fast-forward years later, we are pay- entirely oppose and obstruct this Presi- the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- ing ransom of $400 million that was dis- dent on everything and anything. uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Mary- puted for good reason for decades, While the President’s hand was on the land (Mr. RASKIN) is recognized for 60 claims going both ways. There is a rea- Bible, the streets of the parade route minutes as the designee of the minor- son why that money wasn’t paid out. were lined up with people holding up ity leader. There was a dispute, multiple claims, signs that said ‘‘impeach him now’’— Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, I am de- U.S. to Iran and Iran to the United while his hand was on the Bible. lighted to have this opportunity to States, and $1.3 billion of interest. speak. I want to start by saying that They said that it wasn’t a ransom. $1.7 b 1945 my colleague from North Carolina is billion in cold, hard cash in pallets Last November, Americans all here, and I know there is going to be a that had to get delivered at the exact around this country elected a Presi- group of Members from North Carolina same moment of the American hos- dent whose hand was on the Bible, yet who are coming to address their con- tages—by the way, not all of them—at people are calling for his impeachment stituents. So if you are a North Caro- the exact same moment of the Amer- just for the fact he got elected. Every linian looking in on this, you have ican hostages being released, and we day we are here, we have Members who come to the right place, but you are are saying that that is not ransom. come to the floor doing whatever they going to have to hear me first. I am That was a coincidence that we are can in any way that day, that minute, speaking on behalf of the Progressive signing documents in the middle of to try to tear the President down. Caucus.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.120 H25OCPT1 H8218 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 I don’t know if Representative Now, in America, unlike most coun- Amendment abolished slavery. The ZELDIN is still in the room. I couldn’t tries in the world—or at least a lot of 15th Amendment said no discrimina- quite resist the opportunity to respond countries in the world—we are not de- tion on the basis of race in voting. The to his provacative remarks where he fined by virtue of being one race or one 17th Amendment shifted the mode of said that it appears there are people in ethnicity or one religion or one polit- election from the State legislatures to Congress who are so determined to ical party or one system of belief. We the people. The 19th Amendment gave take the President down. are unified just by virtue of the fact us woman suffrage. The 23rd Amend- I couldn’t really figure out who he that we have one Constitution and one ment said people here in the District of was talking about. Then I realized he is Bill of Rights. We all agree to adhere Columbia could participate in Presi- probably referring to Republican Sen- to it and live under it and struggle for dential elections. The 24th Amendment ator JOHN MCCAIN from Arizona, or a more perfect union under that um- abolished poll taxes. The 26th Amend- maybe Republican Senator JEFF FLAKE brella. ment lowered the age of voting to 18 all from Arizona, or maybe Republican Mr. Speaker, every day we get to across the whole country. Senator BOB CORKER from Tennessee, come to work, and we see the busts and The whole trajectory of our constitu- all of whom have blown the whistle the statues and the portraits of great tional development has been towards this week on the egregious violations Americans. We see Frederick Douglass, greater equality and freedom for the of the basic norms of the Presidency by we see Thomas Jefferson, we see John American people. That is who we are. this President, who continues to de- Adams, we see George Washington. We are a nation that united with other monize and vilify U.S. citizens and en- Mr. Speaker, America was the first nations around the world to defeat fas- gage in the pettiest and most juvenile Nation on Earth conceived in revolu- cism, Nazism, Stalinism, communism, of exchanges with people and generally tionary insurgency against a mon- and totalitarianism in the last cen- demonstrate what most Americans now archy, an arbitrary political leader- tury. We did that. regard as his unfitness for the Presi- ship, and the fusion of church and We stood with Eleanor Roosevelt and dency. State. the United Nations in proclaiming the So it seems like there was an at- Our forebearers rebelled against cen- U.N. Universal Declaration of Human tempt to make it a partisan issue. I turies of religious warfare between the Rights, which enshrined the rights of think if he has got a partisan problem Catholics and the Protestants every bit freedom of speech, freedom of con- with what someone is saying about the as vicious and bloody as what we see in science, freedom of assembly, and free- President, he needs to talk to members the Muslim world today between the dom of the press, taking all those of his own party who are the ones who Sunni and the Shia. They rebelled rights and freedoms that we fought for are screaming the loudest about the against the idea that, as Tom Payne in America that are in our Constitu- put it, the king is law. He said that in outrageous excesses and abuses coming tion and trying to make them a global the democracies, law would be king. from the White House today. ideal so that all of the people of the That is not what I came here to talk That was the idea behind America. world could enjoy the fruits and the ex- about, Mr. Speaker. I just thought it We would govern ourselves. As Jeffer- perience of liberal democracy. was a little bit beyond my humanity to son put in the Declaration of Independ- When we stood at our best as a coun- endure that lecture, especially about ence, all men are created equal, all of try, we have been on the side of free- impeachment, when the Representative us are endowed with inalienable dom movements. We have been on the comes from a party that impeached rights—life, liberty, and the pursuit of side of human rights. We have been on President Clinton over one lie—one lie happiness—and government is legiti- the side of victims of government about sex—and we get a profusion of mately erected only on the basis of the authoritarianism and persecution. dozens of lies every single day from the consent of the governed. That is who we are as a country. White House, from this President, Now I hasten to say that all of those It is all being forgotten and frittered about matters of public policy, crucial beautiful ideals were not realized at away with the chaos that has de- matters of national security, and so on. the start of our Nation. Let’s not That is not even to get into the ques- make-believe. Let’s not pretend. scended not just upon the White tion of admitted obstruction of justice, We didn’t start, in the words of that House—that is too easy, I would say to bragging about the fact that he had great Republican President, Abraham my dear friend Mr. ZELDIN—on this in- fired the FBI Director because he was Lincoln, as a nation of the people, by stitution, on lots of institutions in involved in the Russia investigation; the people, and for the people. We Washington, D.C. We are forgetting not even talking about the rampant started as a slave Republic of White who we are. abuse of power that we see as recent as male property owners over the age of Tom Payne said America was a na- this week with apparently corrupt 21, where the vast majority of people tion conceived as a haven of refuge for dealings in terms of the Puerto Rican could not vote and could not partici- people fleeing from religious and polit- rescue, when 80 percent of the island is pate: indentured servants, slaves, ical persecution from all over the still without power, and it looks like women, and so on. world. That is why our great symbol there are all sorts of sweetheart con- But still, the idea was there, and has been the Statue of Liberty and not tracts that are afoot there. those beautiful, tantalizing ideals were a 14th century wall and barbed wire. It is not even to go to the question of inserted by Thomas Jefferson, whose That is not the real symbol of America. the domestic Emoluments Clause and memory was defended recently by a Now, we are living in a time of rising the foreign Emoluments Clause, which group of hardy and defiant University authoritarianism and tyranny all over are defied every single day with the of Virginia students who surrounded the world, from Russia to Saudi Arabia money that is pouring forth from for- the statue of Thomas Jefferson to de- to Hungary to the Philippines to Ven- eign governments directly to the fend it against the rampaging mob of ezuela. You name it. Authoritarian Trump Hotel and Trump Tower and the racist skinheads and Klansmen who states everywhere are cracking down Trump golf courses all over the world. had come to desecrate the memory of on free speech and free press, jailing I am not going to get into any of that Jefferson and everything that he be- enemies of the states and journalists, stuff because I want to talk about lieved in with his ideals and the words persecuting citizens for their religious something hopeful and uplifting to- that he put in the Declaration of Inde- beliefs and denying the essential night. I want to talk about America’s pendence. human rights that are encoded in our responsibilities in the world, some- Those were the founding ideals of the national DNA, in our Constitution, and thing that we used to take really seri- country, and through successive waves in the U.N. Universal Declaration of ously. of political and social struggle and con- Human Rights and in the International I want to talk about what America is stitutional change, we have opened Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. and who we are and what debt of re- America up. Through the Civil War and While the White House and this ad- sponsibility we owe to the rest of the the Reconstruction amendments, we ministration have abandoned U.S. lead- world and how well we are doing today, opened America up: ership for human rights, the govern- given what is taking place around the The 14th Amendment gave us equal ments of the world are stepping up world. protection and due process. The 13th their authoritarianism. In Burma, in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.122 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8219 Myanmar, the government is waging He has praised Erdogan in Turkey. negligence and lethargy in responding brutal ethnic and religious violence And, of course, we know of his infa- to the plight of people in Puerto Rico? against Rohingya Muslims, thousands mous and somewhat inscrutable rela- Well, they have no voting representa- of whom have been killed and more tionship with Vladimir Putin, cer- tives in this Chamber or in the United than 100,000 of whom have fled the tainly has nothing to say about human States Senate, so we have got millions country, in terror. rights violations taking place against of people unrepresented. Now, this savage campaign of ethnic Russians, tens of thousands of whom Right here in the Nation’s Capital, in cleansing in Burma by the Buddhist-led have summoned up the courage since the District of Columbia, we see the government is being turned on all Mus- the President took office to march in exact same democratic deficit, the lims in that country. And what is our the streets against political corruption exact same discrepancy and discord be- government doing? Nothing. and for human rights. And our govern- tween our values and our ideals and In Turkey, which I will have a little ment does nothing to support the peo- what the reality of daily practice is. bit more to say about in a moment, ple in civil society in Russia who are We are the only democratic nation left there is a vicious crackdown on free trying to stand up for the idea of on Earth where the people of the cap- speech and free press, and the jailing of human rights in their country. ital city are disenfranchised in their journalists and citizens without due Trump says, when he goes to Saudi national legislature. We are the only process. In Russia, there continues to Arabia: We are not here to lecture. We one. be outrageous human rights abuses must seek partners, not perfection. I have only been in this body for 10 against the personal political enemies And he has found those partners all months, Mr. Speaker, but I have noted of Vladimir Putin; against the LGBT over the world: Duterte in the Phil- how frequently and how joyfully this community, which continues to be re- ippines, Putin in Russia, Orban in Hun- body will rise to trample the local leg- viled and demonized by the govern- gary. On and on down the list, you find islation adopted by people in the Dis- ment. In Chechnya, there are cam- a despot, you find a tyrant, you find a trict of Columbia who can’t fight back paigns against journalists, and so on. kleptocrat and a bully, you have found because they don’t have voting rep- In the Philippines, President Duterte a newfound buddy of the United States resentation in Congress, and so we are has overseen the killing of thousands of America. very happy to kick them around if they of people in a brutal war on drugs, with Now, over the summer, media outlets have got a different point of view on no due process at all, where the police reported that the State Department death with dignity. Of course, death can simply declare that you look like a wanted to drop the promotion of de- with dignity in the District of Colum- drug user, you look like a drug dealer, mocracy and human rights from the bia should be of no concern to us. What and then they can have you killed. Department’s mission. The State De- should be of concern is life with democ- It is also in Venezuela, where Maduro partment has since eliminated the racy in the District of Columbia if we has consolidated his power and is deny- www.humanrights.gov website and are going to be faithful to our ideals. ing the rule of law at every turn; in moved its content to an alternative They get to decide, not us. But as Saudi Arabia; in Iran, which was men- and more obscure web address. long as they are excluded from rep- tioned before, with brutal campaigns In May of 2017, Secretary of State resentation in the national legislature, against ethnic minorities—one of the Tillerson reversed decades of bipar- they are going to continue to be kicked leading administrators of capital pun- tisan consensus that human rights and around on questions of gay rights and ishment on Earth, fomenting terror democracy are not only essential com- whether or not poor women can be abroad. ponents of U.S. foreign policy and na- given full access to reproductive tional security, but universal values healthcare in the District of Columbia, b 2000 that the U.S. has adopted as a guiding another issue where the majority in Saudi Arabia, which Freedom House principle of international legitimacy. this body decided to squash the polit- calls among the worst of the worst, And, of course, everyone knows of ical self-determination of more than where torture is present, where women President Trump’s attempts to with- 650,000 American citizens who live right are victims of almost pervasive sex dis- draw from treaties and agreements all here in the Nation’s Capital. crimination—I think just a couple of over the world, including, of course, We have got millions of people who months ago they won a limited right to the Paris accord on climate change. are disenfranchised. That is a human drive in 2017—and on and on. Now, all of these actions, all of these rights problem. So we have got to deal And across the world, governments statements are a betrayal of who we with that. Maybe if America begins to have passed laws against blasphemy, are as a country. We are not defined by stand up again for human rights against heresy, against apostasy, race. We are not defined by ideology, around the world, we will begin to against witchcraft, against sorcery, unlike other countries around the stand up again for human rights in our against all kinds of imaginary reli- world. We are not defined by religion. own country. gious offenses which were wiped off of We are defined by an idea of liberal de- So this is not a partisan issue. Of the books of our State laws centuries mocracy committed to equality and course, one of our great leaders in the ago under the First Amendment, and freedom for all. If we give that up and advancement of human rights in Amer- yet there are people rotting in jail we surrender that, we surrender what ica was President Abraham Lincoln, a today because they belong to the is most precious and defining about the great Republican, and his friend Fred- wrong religious group and they are ac- United States of America, Mr. Speaker. erick Douglass, a great Republican. I cused of blasphemy or apostasy in Iran And guess what. We have got human take pride in that. I take pride in the or in Saudi Arabia or Bangladesh, or rights problems right here at home Republicans who fought for freedom any other number of countries which that we need to be dealing with. and democracy in America. They are as use the tools of the state to oppress Do you know we have millions of much a part of my legacy as great people because of their religious faith Americans who can’t vote and are not Democrats like Franklin D. Roosevelt and their religious worship. represented in Congress? This anomaly or President Barack Obama, the people What does President Trump do? Well, was brought home to us in a very sharp who fought for civil rights and civil lib- he personally praised Rodrigo Duterte way over the last several weeks with erties in my party. So we should cher- in the Philippines and invited him to the crisis in Puerto Rico, where people ish everybody in our history who come to America. His first state visit still lack access to medicines that they moved forward the engines of freedom was to Saudi Arabia, where he publicly need, where people—a majority of the and democratic change in the country. said that he was not going to take population still lacks access to clean Mr. Speaker, I just want to say these issue with anything that they were water, and power is out for four-fifths are tough times in America. There is a doing in terms of human rights, didn’t of the population. Those are our peo- lot of chaos that has descended upon speak about any of the people rotting ple. Those are our citizens. Those are our country, and, Mr. Speaker, we need in jail in Saudi Arabia in a way that Americans in Puerto Rico. all Americans to know, but especially completely violates the human rights But why were they treated dif- young Americans to know, what we understandings and norms of the world. ferently? Why was there this notorious really stand for.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.123 H25OCPT1 H8220 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 We have a claim, a very strong claim Historian is Dr. Harry L. White, and achievements was the establishment to being the greatest nation on Earth, the hardworking Executive Secretary- and maintenance of historic Shaw Uni- and it has got nothing to do with the Treasurer is Dr. Haywood T. Gray. versity in Raleigh, which will be dis- military, and it has got nothing to do Mr. Speaker, the Black church in cussed by my colleagues, Congressman with our GDP. It has got to do with the North Carolina did not begin at the end DAVID PRICE and Congresswoman ALMA way we were created, what our found- of slavery. It became more pronounced ADAMS, in just a moment. Shaw Uni- ing ideals were, and then the commit- and more transparent at slavery’s end, versity’s contribution to African- ment of the people always to try to re- but it existed for many years. It ex- American empowerment must be alize those ideals and engender a more isted for many years prior to the end of known and understood by all North perfect Union as we go along. slavery. Carolinians. Let’s keep America moving in that In 1831, the North Carolina General Those pioneers, who were trained at direction so we will continue to be a Assembly passed a law making it a Shaw University, went into commu- beacon of light to oppressed people all crime for any free person of color or nities and established institutions and over the world. slave to preach or exhort in public, or engaged in professions that empowered Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance in any manner officiate as a preacher future generations. They went to all of my time. or a teacher in any prayer meeting or corners of our State. They went to The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. other association for worship where eastern North Carolina; Piedmont, FERGUSON). Members are reminded to slaves of different families were col- North Carolina; Triad; and the Federal refrain from engaging in personalities lected together. area, which is where our esteemed ser- toward the President. Can you imagine? geant at arms grew up in, Ms. Hamlett. f The punishment for preaching the Ms. Joyce Hamlett grew up in the Fed- gospel—beginning in 1831, it was a RECOGNIZING THE 150TH ANNIVER- eral area. There were many other areas crime. The punishment for violation SARY OF THE GENERAL BAPTIST that were covered by graduates from was a whipping of up to 39 lashes on the STATE CONVENTION Shaw University. bare back. Mr. Speaker, I am delighted to in- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under Notwithstanding this prohibition clude in the RECORD a list of names of the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- against preaching, the Black church African-American physicians, dentists, uary 3, 2017, the Chair recognizes the existed as a secret association of slaves pharmacists, lawyers, ministers, and gentleman from North Carolina (Mr. who worshipped privately. As the ante- teachers who were also trained at Shaw BUTTERFIELD) for 30 minutes. bellum period proceeded, a few of the University. Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I White churches, at the urging of the PRESIDENTS OF THE GENERAL BAPTIST STATE rise this evening to recognize the Gen- North Carolina Baptist State Conven- CONVENTION OF NORTH CAROLINA (1867–2018) eral Baptist State Convention of North tion, finally allowed people of color to William Warrick 1867–1869 Carolina on the occasion of its 150th hold church meetings under the super- A. B. Williams 1869–1872 anniversary. The story of this great vision of a White person; and, at times, E. Eagles 1872–1874 Baptist convention is a testament to a member of the White race would con- L. W. Boon 1874–1875 its founders, Reverends William duct the service. Joseph Baysmore 1875–1876 Warrick, Edward Eagles, C. Johnson, Now, Mr. Speaker, when the Emanci- Caesar Johnson 1876–1882 Joshua Perry 1882–1884 L.W. Boone, B.B. Spicer, H. Grimes, pation Proclamation was signed on John Washington, Charles Bryant, Sut- Caesar Johnson 1884–1885 January 1, 1863, and the 13th Amend- N. F. Roberts 1885–1889 ton Davis, and R.H. Harper, the vision- ment ratified on December 6, 1865, A. W. Pegues 1889–1895 ary men who founded the convention there were 4 million slaves who ob- C. S. Brown 1895–1897 on October 18, 1867. tained their freedom; 300,000 of those Augustus Shepard 1897–1911 Since its founding, Mr. Speaker, lived in North Carolina. The former B. D. Griffin 1911–1918 great men and great women have main- slaves, with assistance from White O. S. Bullock 1918–1924 J. S. Brown 1924–1928 tained the convention’s strength and northerners and the Freedmen’s Bu- viability. The General Baptist State R. R. Cartwright 1928–1932 reau, began the struggle toward free- J. T. Hairston 1932–1940 Convention is the oldest convention of dom and equality. It was the Black P. A. Bishop 1940–1958 African-American Baptists in the church that led the way. This move- W. H. Davidson 1958–1959 United States of America. The General ment consisted of Black Baptist lead- R. M. Pitts 1959–1964 Baptist State Convention consists of ers and Black Methodist leaders and John W. White 1964–1970 more that 500,000 Baptist believers be- other religious leaders, both Black and Chancy R. Edwards 1970–1974 longing to more than 1,400 churches, White, who understood the importance Joy J. Johnson 1974–1978 John R. Manley 1978–1982 including my home church, the Jack- of the former slaves having the ability son Chapel First Missionary Baptist E. Burns Turner 1982–1986 to worship and serve their God without J. B. Humphrey 1986–1990 Church of Wilson. fear. Willie B. Lewis 1990–1994 The convention is subdivided into 58 b 2015 Clifford A. Jones, Sr. 1994–1998 associations, each presided over by a John D. Fuller, Sr. 1998–2002 moderator. Over the last 150 years, the At the end of the Civil War, the Charles T. Bullock 2002–2006 convention has been led by well-trained former slaves built churches through- Gregory K. Moss, Sr. 2006–2010 and spirit-led theologians. The current out North Carolina. Many were of the Howard W. Parker, Jr. 2010–2014 president and executive board chair is Baptist denomination, and they were Nilous M. Avery, II 2014–2018 my friend Dr. Nilous M. Avery, II, of erected with lightning speed. Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I Salisbury, North Carolina. He is the In 1867, they came together, Mr. yield to the gentlewoman from North 32nd president of the convention. Speaker, at First African Baptist Carolina (Ms. ADAMS), a former Ben- Mr. Speaker, the current officers of Church in Goldsboro, North Carolina. nett College professor. the convention are: First Vice Presi- And I have a picture of it on display. Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, I thank dent At Large, Dr. Leonzo Lynch; First They came together at the First Afri- the gentleman for yielding. Vice President, Dr. Ricky Banks; Sec- can Baptist Church in Goldsboro to Mr. Speaker, I rise to recognize the ond Vice President, Dr. J. Vincent form the General Association of Col- 150th anniversary of the General Bap- Terry, Sr.; Third Vice President, Rev- ored Baptists of North Carolina, which tist State Convention of North Caro- erend O.D. Sykes; Fourth Vice Presi- was the original name for the conven- lina and join my colleagues, Congress- dent, Reverend Prince R. Rivers; Re- tion. And I might say, Mr. Speaker, man BUTTERFIELD and Congressman cording Secretary, Reverend Curtis O. that my grandfather, Reverend Fred PRICE, in congratulating them on their Donald; Assistant Recording Secretary, Davis, would, in 1916, become the achievements and the appointment of Reverend Matthew Rouse, III; Statisti- fourth pastor of this church. their 32nd president, Dr. Avery. cian, Dr. Nathan Scovens; Parliamen- Not only did Black Baptists build In North Carolina, the convention tarian, Reverend Reginald Wells. The churches, but one of their greatest partners with Shaw University, the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.125 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8221 oldest Historically Black University in and I certainly, over the years, have Black College in the Nation to open its the South and one of the oldest in the come to appreciate what Shaw means: doors to women, and the first Histori- Nation. a Baptist institution. It is tied very, cally Black College in North Carolina As a retired professor, as you heard, very closely. Shaw University Divinity to be granted an ‘‘A’’ rating by the of 40 years from Bennett College in School is affiliated—an institution State Department of Public Instruc- Greensboro, founder of the Congres- that this convention has nurtured and tion. sional Bipartisan HBCU Caucus, and a that, in turn, has served thousands of Over the years, as Mr. BUTTERFIELD member of the Education and the people, and enriched the life of North has said, many scholarships have been Workforce Committee here in the Con- Carolina. provided to those students. They have gress, it gives me great pride to reflect Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I encouraged the students to not only at- on the general support that the con- thank Congressman PRICE very much tend their divinity school, but we find vention gives to Shaw and its students. for those words, I thank him for his that many of them have become col- I feel a special attachment to Shaw, leadership and his relationship with lege presidents: the founder of North since that is what became my alma Shaw University, and I especially Carolina Central, the first President of mater. North Carolina A&T State Uni- thank him for mentioning Estey Hall. Elizabeth City State, and North Caro- versity was located on Shaw’s campus For many of us, who have grown up lina A&T State University were all during its first year. Its history of in North Carolina, we know the rel- Shaw Bears, and we are delighted. So leadership, activism, and service is evance and the importance of Shaw the lives that the General Baptist well-documented. The Student Non- University. We know how Shaw Univer- State Convention has touched through- violent Coordinating Committee, sity trained many hundreds, if not out its existence is beyond admirable founded on Shaw’s campus in 1960, and thousands, of individuals, who came and almost beyond comprehension. the Center for Alternative Programs in into communities all across North I want to close by saying that W.E.B. Education—CAPE—had its beginnings Carolina and made a difference. They Du Bois reminded us that of all the there in 1980. came into the classroom, and they civil rights of which the world has Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I taught at elementary schools and high fought for for 500 years, the right to thank Congresswoman ADAMS for those schools all across our State. They went learn is undoubtedly the most funda- enlightening remarks and for her ex- onto college campuses and became col- mental. So I praise the General Baptist State traordinary leadership not only here in lege professors. Many of them became Convention and its commitment to Congress, but for 40 years that she lawyers because Shaw University had a education, and Shaw University, as spent in the classroom at Bennett Col- law school during those days. Some be- well, for their charitable giving and for lege. She has been a trailblazer for came physicians and dentists. Some be- their dedication to educating young sure. came pharmacists. people through these 150 years, a cen- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman Shaw University was a real edu- tury and five decades. from North Carolina (Mr. PRICE), who cational engine not just in North Caro- Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Very well said, also is a former college professor, who lina, but throughout the country, dur- Congresswoman ADAMS. represents the Fourth Congressional ing those very difficult days. And I say Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman District. I thank him for joining us to- all that to say that it was the General from North Carolina (Mr. PRICE) for night. Baptist State Convention and its pred- any concluding remarks. Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. ecessor that helped enable Shaw Uni- Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for versity to be born. Shaw University has Speaker, I thank my colleague for this yielding, and I commend him for tak- done so much for so many. opportunity. ing up this Special Order and giving I recall, as a child, my parents would I would like to conclude by reflecting Representative ADAMS and myself the tell me that they, too, attended Shaw on some of the outstanding pastors opportunity to participate and to pay University. My dad went to Shaw Uni- who have led this convention and led tribute to the General Baptist State versity from 1919 to 1923. My mother the congregations that comprise this Convention. attended Shaw University for high convention. I hesitate to name any be- The mention of Shaw University school. During those days, African cause there are so many who have brings me to my feet because I, too, Americans did not have the benefit in served so faithfully and so well. want to reflect on this significant Bap- most communities of a high school But I want to share some memories, tist institution, which is in the Fourth education and so many of the young and I think our listeners in North Congressional District, in downtown teens would go to Shaw for high school. Carolina will remember these as well. Raleigh. It was there at Shaw University that They exemplify what this convention Shaw has also recently celebrated its my parents met. My dad was in under- has been all about and the leadership it 150th anniversary, a history that par- graduate school, my mother was in the has offered. allels that of the General Baptist State high school, and they met right on the Dr. Charles Ward, for example, long- Convention. porch of Estey Hall back in 1919. term pastor of the First Baptist I was there last week in historic Mr. Speaker, I thank Dr. Price and Church in Raleigh, a civil rights leader, Estey Hall. I have to say—yes, point Dr. Adams for raising up Shaw Univer- a mentor to so many people over the out the historic building there on the sity and just telling the world what the years, and a revered pastor. I remem- campus—when I first came to the Con- General Baptist State Convention did ber him so well as I first began to gress in the 1980s, my first appropria- by creating the environment where think about running for Congress and tions earmark was for Estey Hall. Be- Shaw University could thrive. sought his counsel. He unfailingly gave lieve me, that was just a little bit of Mr. Speaker, I thank both of them wise counsel and encouragement. He, of seed money. But Shaw has restored for coming to the floor. course, was a leader in the General that building in a beautiful way. The Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentle- Baptist State Convention. acting President of Shaw, Dr. Paulette woman from North Carolina (Ms. Reverend Lorenzo Lynch, from Dur- Dillard, is doing a wonderful job of ADAMS) for any concluding remarks. ham, North Carolina, another former leading that university. Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, I thank leader of the convention. His son, But the occasion last week was an in- Congressman BUTTERFIELD for yield- Leonzo, is now the vice president of the augural lecture. The Adam Clayton ing. convention. Leonzo Lynch is a power- Powell-Ella Baker lecture is going to I just wanted to add that he was al- ful prophetic preacher. He had a huge be an annual occasion at Shaw. I was most a Shaw Bear with his parents at- impact on the city of Durham. The honored to give that lecture to a very tending there. Just last year, I had the Durham Committee on the Affairs of lively group of students and faculty. opportunity to address Founder’s Day Black People recently honored his life- Then we had a luncheon in Estey Hall to all of the students there. time achievements. And his daughter, afterwards and a great discussion, just Many firsts Shaw boasts: the first former Attorney General Loretta liberal arts education at its best. I ap- college in the Nation to offer a 4-year Lynch, returned to Durham to be part preciated being part of that occasion, medical program, the first Historically of that recognition.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:46 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00075 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.127 H25OCPT1 H8222 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 I think of C.R. Edwards, former presi- vention, and I have had the privilege of and joint resolution of the House of the dent of the convention, pastor for so knowing 12 of them. following titles, which were thereupon many years at the First Baptist Church b 2030 signed by the Speaker: of Fayetteville, a long-term leader of H.R. 2266. An act making additional sup- the North Carolina General Assembly, I did not realize that until I actually plemental appropriations for disaster relief and special assistant to North Caro- pulled out the list and started count- requirements for the fiscal year ending Sep- lina’s Governors. Again, a mentor, a ing: C.R. Edwards, who Mr. PRICE rec- tember 30, 2018, and for other purposes. ognized a moment ago; Joy Johnson; H.J. Res. 111. Joint resolution providing for wise man, someone who was a good congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of man and who knew how to bring out John Manley; E.B. Turner; J.B. Hum- phrey; W.B. Lewis; Clifford A. Jones, title 5, United States Code, of the rule sub- the best in others. mitted by Bureau of Consumer Financial I think of W.B. Lewis, who recently Sr.; John D. Fuller, Sr.; Charles T. Bul- Protection relating to ‘‘Arbitration Agree- passed away, another former president lock; Gregory K. Moss, Sr.; Howard W. ments’’. of the convention. He was pastor for a Parker, Jr.; and the current president, f Dr. Nilous M. Avery, II. long time of the—I say a long time— SENATE ENROLLED BILL SIGNED decades upon decades of the First Cos- I might say, Mr. Speaker, that of mopolitan Baptist Church in Raleigh. these names that I just mentioned, The Speaker announced his signature He was a pioneer in figuring out how to three of those passed away in this cal- to an enrolled bill of the Senate of the work with the Federal Department of endar year. following title: Housing and Urban Development to They have been great Baptists and S. 504. An act to permanently authorize the form a nonprofit corporation to build they have been great North Carolinians Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Travel Card Program. affordable housing, which, to this day, and great Americans. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank my col- stands in Raleigh—rental housing for f leagues and I want to thank the Gen- the elderly. ADJOURNMENT Finally, I think of John R. Manley, eral Baptist State Convention for 150 years of incredible work in North Caro- Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, I 60-plus years as pastor of First Baptist move that the House do now adjourn. Church in Chapel Hill, a dear friend of lina, and I thank the men and women of both clergy and laity who keep this The motion was agreed to; accord- mine. Another former president of the ingly (at 8 o’clock and 33 minutes convention, by the way. This was a pat- convention alive and well. Mr. Speaker, if I can close by simply p.m.), under its previous order, the tern for these leading pastors to offer using my dear, departed uncle as but House adjourned until tomorrow, that kind of State leadership, as they one example of a Black preacher who Thursday, October 26, 2017, at 9 a.m. were offering local leadership. John gave his entire life to his ministry. f Manley also was a champion of hous- Reverend F.L. Bullock of Enfield, ing. Manley Estates stands right there EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, born 1896, pastored four churches that in that community. I know how hard ETC. were one-Sunday-per-month churches. John Manley worked on that because Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive Married to my mother’s sister who was we worked together. We have this communications were taken from the a teacher, he was paid very little. housing in the community because of Speaker’s table and referred as follows: Every day of his life, Reverend Bullock his vision. would visit the sick and minister to 2928. A letter from the Under Secretary, I can go on and on. But this is such Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, De- the needs of his community. an impressive honor roll of leaders— partment of Defense, transmitting a report After serving as pastor for 64 long pastors—who have not only led their entitled ‘‘Live Fire Test and Evaluation years, he was diagnosed with cancer. flocks, but they have led the State and, Management Plan for the T-AO 205 Fleet Re- No health insurance, no life insurance, in many cases, national religious orga- plenishment Oiler Program PRE-MDAP- no pension from any of his churches, he ACAT IC Milestone B/C’’, pursuant to 10 nizations. died at age 84, several days after U.S.C. 2366(c)(1); Public Law 99-500, Sec. The General Baptist State Conven- preaching his last sermon. 101(c) (as amended by Public Law 99-591, Sec. tion has enabled millions of people Mr. Speaker, thousands of pastors 101(c)); (100 Stat. 3341-144); to the Committee over these years to deepen their faith have devoted their entire life to the on Armed Services. and to express that faith in ministering 2929. A letter from the Secretary, Securi- ministry. Many are remembered, but so to those whom Jesus called, ‘‘the least ties and Exchange Commission, transmitting many of them are not. of these,’’ and to advance the struggle the Commission’s interim final temporary Today, the three of us pay tribute to rule — Regulation Crowdfunding and Regula- for justice in this country. all of them from the floor of the United tion A Relief and Assistance for Victims of So I am proud to join my colleagues States House of Representatives. Hurricane Harvey, Hurricane Irma, and Hur- in this tribute tonight. And I say to the May God bless the memory of each of ricane Maria [Release No.: 33-10416] received General Baptist State Convention of them for making our communities a October 20, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. North Carolina that many faithful better place to live, and may God con- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 members of the congregations, the Stat. 868); to the Committee on Financial tinue to bless the General Baptist Services. leaders, may you go from strength to State Convention of North Carolina strength, and may you continue to ap- 2930. A letter from the Secretary, Federal and its current leaders as they con- Trade Commission, transmitting the Com- proach the gospel powerfully and be a tinue to serve God and his people of all mission’s final rules — Wool Products Label- force for good and justice and right in races, creeds, and stations in life. ing; Fur Products Labeling; Textile Fiber our community. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Products Identification (RIN: 3084-AB29, 3084- Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, of my time. AB27, 3084-AB30) received October 20, 2017, how much time do I have remaining? pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- f 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- tleman from North Carolina has 9 min- SENATE BILL REFERRED mittee on Energy and Commerce. 2931. A letter from the Deputy Assistant utes remaining. A bill of the Senate of the following Mr. BUTTERFIELD. Mr. Speaker, as Secretary, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, De- title was taken from the Speaker’s partment of State, transmitting a report I was listening to Congressman PRICE a table and, under the rule, referred as covering the period from June 9, 2017 to Au- moment ago recite the names of those follows: gust 8, 2017 on the Authorization for Use of great men who have led the General S. 1766. An act to reauthorize the SAFER Military Force Against Iraq Resolution, pur- Baptist State Convention, I could not Act of 2013, and for other purposes; to the suant to 50 U.S.C. 1541 note; Public Law 107- help but to think that I, too, remember Committee on the Judiciary. 243, Sec. 4(a); (116 Stat. 1501) and 50 U.S.C. 1541 note; Public Law 102-1, Sec. 3 (as amend- all of them. And then I glanced down at f the list of presidents that I am going to ed by Public Law 106-113, Sec. 1000(a)(7)); (113 Stat. 1501A-422); to the Committee on For- enter into the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD ENROLLED BILL AND JOINT RESOLUTION SIGNED eign Affairs. in just a few moments from now, and 2932. A letter from the Deputy Assistant there have been 32 men who have Karen L. Haas, Clerk of the House, Secretary, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, De- served as presidents of this great con- reported and found truly enrolled a bill partment of State, transmitting a report to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:46 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00076 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K25OC7.128 H25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H8223 Congress on the status of the Government of Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- Cuba’s compliance with the United States- ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E tation and Infrastructure. Cuba September 1994 ‘‘Joint Communique’’, Airspace for the following Louisiana Towns; 2948. A letter from the Management and the treatment by the Government of Cuba of Leesville, LA; and Patterson, LA [Docket Program Analyst, FAA, Department of persons returned to Cuba in accordance with No.: FAA-2017-0183; Airspace Docket No.: 17- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- the United States-Cuba May 1995 ‘‘Joint ASW-4] received October 18, 2017, pursuant to ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E Statement’’, and the United States-Cuba 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. Airspace; Mineral Point, WI [Docket No.: January 2017 ‘‘Joint Statement’’, together 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on FAA-2017-0181; Airspace Docket No.: 17-AGL- known as the Migration Accords, March 2017 Transportation and Infrastructure. 7] received October 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 to September 2017, pursuant to Public Law 2941. A letter from the Management and U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 105-277, Sec. 2245; (112 Stat. 2681-824); to the Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Committee on Foreign Affairs. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation and Infrastructure. 2933. A letter from the Director, Defense ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- 2949. A letter from the Management and Security Cooperation Agency, Department of tives; British Aerospace Regional Aircraft Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Defense, transmitting Transmittal No.: 02-17, Airplanes [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0639; Prod- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- pursuant to the reporting requirements of uct Identifier 2017-CE-016-AD; Amendment ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class D Sec. 62(a) of the Arms Export Control Act; to 39-19052; AD 2017-19-22] (RIN: 2120-AA64) re- and Class E Airspace; Cheyenne, WY [Docket the Committee on Foreign Affairs. ceived October 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. No.: FAA-2016-9473; Airspace Docket No.: 16- 2934. A letter from the Deputy Assistant 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 ANM-7] received October 18, 2017, pursuant to Secretary, Bureau of Legislative Affairs, De- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. partment of State, transmitting a report on tation and Infrastructure. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on progress toward a negotiated solution of the 2942. A letter from the Management and Transportation and Infrastructure. Cyprus question covering the period of April Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 2950. A letter from the Management and 1, 2017 — May 31, 2017, pursuant to Sec. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 620C(c) of the Foreign Assistance Act of 1961, ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- as amended, and in accordance with Sec. tives; Siemens S.A.S. Smoke Detectors ment’s final rule — Amendment of Re- 1(a)(6) of Executive Order 13313; to the Com- [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0099; Product Identi- stricted Areas R-3004A and R-3004B and Es- mittee on Foreign Affairs. fier 2017-NE-02-AD; Amendment 39-19035; AD tablishment of R-3004C; Fort Gordon, GA 2935. A letter from the Executive Analyst 2017-19-05] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received October [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0886; Airspace Docket (Political), Office of the Secretary, Depart- 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); No.: 16-ASO-11] received October 18, 2017, pur- ment of Health and Human Services, trans- Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to suant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- mitting a notification of nomination and ac- the Committee on Transportation and Infra- 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee tion on nomination, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. structure. on Transportation and Infrastructure. 3349(a); Public Law 105-277, 151(b); (112 Stat. 2943. A letter from the Management and 2951. A letter from the Management and 2681-614); to the Committee on Oversight and Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Government Reform. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 2936. A letter from the Management and ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Airspace; Midland, TX and Establishment of Airspace; Lemoore NAS, CA [Docket No.: Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Class E Airspace; Odessa, TX and Midland, FAA-2017-0219; Airspace Docket No.: 17-AWP- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- TX [Docket No.: FAA-2016-9481; Airspace 5] received October 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 tives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (For- Docket No.: 16-ASW-18] received October 18, U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. merly Known as Construcciones 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes [Docket No.: Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Transportation and Infrastructure. FAA-2017-0555; Product Identifier 2016-NM- Committee on Transportation and Infra- 2952. A letter from the Management and 183-AD; Amendment 39-19037; AD 2017-19-07] Program Analyst, FAA, Department of (RIN: 2120-AA64) received October 18, 2017, structure. 2944. A letter from the Management and Transportation, transmitting the Depart- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law Program Analyst, FAA, Department of ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Airspace; Brainerd, MN [Docket No.: FAA- mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- 2017-0188; Airspace Docket No.: 17-AGL-8] re- ture. 2937. A letter from the Management and tives; Rolls-Royce Deutschland Ltd and Co ceived October 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Program Analyst, FAA, Department of KG Turbofan Engines [Docket No.: FAA-2017- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 0140; Product Identifier 2017-NE-05-AD; Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Amendment 39-19048; AD 2017-19-18] (RIN: tation and Infrastructure. tives; Airbus Defense and Space S.A. (For- 2120-AA64) received October 18, 2017, pursuant 2953. A letter from the Management and merly Known as Construcciones to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Aeronauticas, S.A.) Airplanes [Docket No.: Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transportation, transmitting the Depart- FAA-2017-0623; Product Identifier 2017-NM- Transportation and Infrastructure. ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E 024-AD; Amendment 39-19038; AD 2017-19-08] 2945. A letter from the Management and Airspace, Soldotna, AK [Docket No.: FAA- (RIN: 2120-AA64) received October 18, 2017, Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 2016-9588; Airspace Docket No.: 16-AAL-5] re- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ceived October 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- ment’s final rule — Establishment of Re- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- stricted Area R-2306F; Yuma Proving Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- ture. Ground, AZ [Docket No.: FAA-2016-7055; Air- tation and Infrastructure. 2938. A letter from the Management and space Docket No.: 15-AWP-11] received Octo- 2954. A letter from the Management and Program Analyst, FAA, Department of ber 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- the Committee on Transportation and Infra- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- tives; Airbus Airplanes [Docket No.: FAA- structure. tives; Airbus Helicopters [Docket No.: FAA- 2017-0561; Product Identifier 2016-NM-141-AD; 2946. A letter from the Management and 2016-9143; Product Identifier 2013-SW-037-AD; Amendment 39-19043; AD 2017-19-13] (RIN: Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Amendment 39-19051; AD 2017-19-21] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received October 18, 2017, pursuant Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 2120-AA64) received October 18, 2018, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on tives; Rolls-Royce plc Turbofan Engines Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0767; Product Identi- Transportation and Infrastructure. 2939. A letter from the Management and fier 2017-NE-26-AD; Amendment 39-19049; AD 2955. A letter from the Deputy General Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 2017-19-19] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received October Counsel, Office of General Counsel, Small Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Business Administration, transmitting the ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to Administration’s direct final rule — Record tives; General Electric Company Turboshaft the Committee on Transportation and Infra- Disclosure and Privacy (RIN: 3245-AG52) re- Engines [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0452; Product structure. ceived October 20, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Identifier 2017-NE-14-AD; Amendment 39- 2947. A letter from the Management and 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 19050; AD 2017-19-20] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Stat. 868); to the Committee on Small Busi- October 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ness. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E 2956. A letter from the Deputy Adminis- Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- Airspace; Wayne, NE [Docket No.: FAA-2017- trator, Transportation Security Administra- tation and Infrastructure. 0287; Airspace Docket No.: 17-ACE-6] received tion, Department of Homeland Security, 2940. A letter from the Management and October 18, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. transmitting the Administration’s certifi- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 cation that the level of screening services

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:16 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00077 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L25OC7.000 H25OCPT1 H8224 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE October 25, 2017 and protection provided at Atlantic City PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS By Mr. CASTRO of Texas (for himself International Airport in New Jersey, under Under clause 2 of rule XII, public and Mr. MCCAUL): this contract will be equal to or greater than H.R. 4121. A bill to establish in the United the level that would be provided at the air- bills and resolutions of the following States Agency for International Develop- port by TSA Transportation Security Offi- titles were introduced and severally re- ment an entity to be known as the United cers and that the screening company is ferred, as follows: States Global Development Lab, and for owned and controlled by a citizen of the By Ms. BONAMICI (for herself and Mr. other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign United States, pursuant to 49 U.S.C. FERGUSON): Affairs. 44920(d)(1); Public Law 107-71, Sec. 108(a); (115 H.R. 4115. A bill to promote registered ap- By Ms. DELAURO (for herself, Mr. Stat. 613); to the Committee on Homeland prenticeships and other work-based learning FITZPATRICK, Mrs. COMSTOCK, Ms. Security. programs for small and medium-sized busi- ESTY of Connecticut, Mrs. DINGELL, 2957. A letter from the Regulations Coordi- nesses within in-demand industry sectors, Mr. DEFAZIO, and Ms. CLARKE of New nator, Centers for Medicare and Medicaid through the establishment and support of in- York): Services, Office of Strategic Operations and dustry or sector partnerships; to the Com- H.R. 4122. A bill to require breast density Regulatory Affairs, Department of Health mittee on Education and the Workforce, and reporting to physicians and patients by fa- and Human Services, transmitting the De- in addition to the Committee on the Judici- cilities that perform mammograms, and for partment’s final rule — Clinical Laboratory ary, for a period to be subsequently deter- other purposes; to the Committee on Energy Improvement Amendments of 1988 (CLIA); mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- and Commerce. Fecal Occult Blood (FOB) Testing [CMS-3271- sideration of such provisions as fall within By Mr. GOTTHEIMER (for himself and F] (RIN: 0938-AS04) received October 18, 2017, the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida): H.R. 4123. A bill to require the Director of pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law By Mr. DOGGETT (for himself, Mr. National Intelligence, in coordination with CUMMINGS, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. ELLI- 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); jointly to the the Secretary of State, to submit a report to SON, Mr. POCAN, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. Committees on Energy and Commerce and Congress with respect to North Korea’s pro- CICILLINE, Mr. COHEN, Mr. CONYERS, Ways and Means. curement of engines and technologies from a Mr. HIGGINS of New York, Ms. KAP- foreign source, and for other purposes; to the f TUR, Mr. NADLER, and Mr. RASKIN): Committee on Intelligence (Permanent Se- H.R. 4116. A bill to amend the Public lect), and in addition to the Committee on Health Service Act to require reporting by REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON Foreign Affairs, for a period to be subse- drug manufacturers to increase transparency PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS quently determined by the Speaker, in each in drug pricing, and for other purposes; to case for consideration of such provisions as Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of the Committee on Energy and Commerce. fall within the jurisdiction of the committee committees were delivered to the Clerk By Mr. DOGGETT (for himself, Mr. concerned. for printing and reference to the proper CUMMINGS, Ms. DELAURO, Ms. SCHA- By Ms. LOFGREN (for herself, Mr. POE KOWSKY, Mr. POCAN, Ms. JUDY CHU of calendar, as follows: of Texas, Mr. O’ROURKE, Mr. AMASH, California, Mr. CICILLINE, Mr. COHEN, Mr. CONAWAY: Committee on Agri- Mr. MASSIE, Mr. TED LIEU of Cali- Mr. CONYERS, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. GRI- culture. H.R. 2936. A bill to expedite under fornia, and Mr. FARENTHOLD): the National Environmental Policy Act of JALVA, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. KHANNA, Mr. H.R. 4124. A bill to amend the Foreign In- 1969 and improve forest management activi- LANGEVIN, Mr. NADLER, Mrs. NAPOLI- telligence Surveillance Act of 1978 to protect ties on National Forest System lands, on TANO, Mr. O’ROURKE, Ms. PINGREE, privacy rights and for other purposes; to the public lands under the jurisdiction of the Bu- Ms. CASTOR of Florida, Mr. RASKIN, Committee on the Judiciary, and in addition ´ reau of Land Management, and on Tribal and Ms. VELAZQUEZ): to the Committees on Intelligence (Perma- H.R. 4117. A bill to prohibit brand name lands to return resilience to overgrown, fire- nent Select), Oversight and Government Re- drug companies from compensating generic prone forested lands, and for other purposes; form, and Homeland Security, for a period to drug companies to delay the entry of a ge- with an amendment (Rept. 115–370, Pt. 1). Re- be subsequently determined by the Speaker, neric drug into the market, and for other ferred to the Committee of the Whole House in each case for consideration of such provi- purposes; to the Committee on Ways and on the state of the Union. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Means, and in addition to the Committees on Mr. BISHOP of Utah: Committee on Nat- committee concerned. the Judiciary, and Energy and Commerce, ural Resources. H.R. 2936. A bill to expedite By Mrs. LOVE (for herself and Ms. for a period to be subsequently determined under the National Environmental Policy FUDGE): by the Speaker, in each case for consider- Act of 1969 and improve forest management H.R. 4125. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- activities on National Forest System lands, cation Act of 1965 to provide for comprehen- risdiction of the committee concerned. on public lands under the jurisdiction of the sive student achievement information; to the By Mr. POE of Texas (for himself, Mr. Bureau of Land Management, and on Tribal Committee on Education and the Workforce. AMODEI, Mr. MCNERNEY, Mr. WELCH, lands to return resilience to overgrown, fire- By Mr. LOWENTHAL (for himself, Ms. Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. THOMPSON of prone forested lands, and for other purposes; ROS-LEHTINEN, Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. California, and Mr. GOSAR): with an amendment (Rept. 115–370, Pt. 2). Re- CURBELO of Florida, and Ms. TSON- H.R. 4118. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- GAS): ferred to the Committee of the Whole House enue Code of 1986 to extend the publicly trad- on the state of the Union. H.R. 4126. A bill to provide for the accurate ed partnership ownership structure to energy reporting of fossil fuel production and emis- Ms. FOXX: Committee on Education and power generation projects and transpor- the Workforce. H.R. 2823. A bill to amend the sions from public lands, and for other pur- tation fuels, and for other purposes; to the poses; to the Committee on Natural Re- Employee Retirement Income Security Act Committee on Ways and Means. sources. of 1974 and the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 By Mr. MESSER (for himself, Mr. By Mr. LUETKEMEYER (for himself to ensure that retirement investors receive CLEAVER, Mr. HULTGREN, Mr. FER- and Mr. SESSIONS): advice in their best interests, and for other GUSON, Mr. GARRETT, Mrs. BROOKS of H.R. 4127. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- purposes; with an amendment (Rept. 115–371, Indiana, Mr. LEWIS of Minnesota, and enue Code of 1986 to allow refunds of Federal Pt. 1). Ordered to be printed. Ms. STEFANIK): motor fuel excise taxes on fuels used in mo- DISCHARGE OF COMMITTEE H.R. 4119. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- bile mammography vehicles; to the Com- Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XIII the cation Act of 1965 to direct the Secretary of mittee on Ways and Means. Committees on Education and the Education to develop a plain language dis- By Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM Workforce and Transportation and In- closure form for borrowers of Federal stu- of New Mexico: dent loans, and for other purposes; to the H.R. 4128. A bill to amend title XIX of the frastructure discharged from further Committee on Education and the Workforce. Social Security Act to allow States with Ex- consideration. H.R. 2936 referred to the By Mr. BERA (for himself, Ms. EDDIE changes with low-insurer participation to Committee of the Whole House on the BERNICE JOHNSON of Texas, Mr. LIPIN- offer a Medicaid buy-in plan, and for other state of the Union. SKI, Ms. BONAMICI, and Ms. ROSEN): purposes; to the Committee on Energy and H.R. 4120. A bill to provide for a com- Commerce, and in addition to the Committee f prehensive interdisciplinary research and de- on Ways and Means, for a period to be subse- velopment initiative to strengthen the ca- quently determined by the Speaker, in each TIME LIMITATION OF REFERRED pacity of the electricity sector to neutralize case for consideration of such provisions as BILL cyber attacks; to the Committee on Science, fall within the jurisdiction of the committee Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XII, the Space, and Technology, and in addition to concerned. the Committees on Homeland Security, and By Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mex- following action was taken by the Energy and Commerce, for a period to be ico (for himself, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Speaker: subsequently determined by the Speaker, in Mr. CARSON of Indiana, Ms. CLARKE of H.R. 2823. Referral to the Committee on each case for consideration of such provi- New York, Mr. COHEN, Mr. DELANEY, Ways and Means extended for a period ending sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsyl- not later than January 10, 2018. committee concerned. vania, Mr. ENGEL, Ms. ESHOO, Ms.

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FUDGE, Mr. GALLEGO, Ms. JAYAPAL, Challis National Forests in the State of Florida, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Mr. EVANS, Mr. JEFFRIES, Mr. KIHUEN, Mr. LAN- Idaho as the Cecil D. Andrus-White Clouds Mr. SCHNEIDER, Mrs. LAWRENCE, Mr. GEVIN, Mrs. NAPOLITANO, Mr. Wilderness in honor of former Idaho Gov- GRIJALVA, Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. O’ROURKE, Ms. ROSEN, Ms. TITUS, Mr. ernor and Secretary of the Interior Cecil D. BUTTERFIELD, Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- TONKO, Mr. WALZ, Ms. MICHELLE Andrus; to the Committee on Natural Re- vania, Mr. PALLONE, Ms. JACKSON LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico, Mr. sources. LEE, Ms. HANABUSA, Mr. JOHNSON of TAKANO, Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI, and By Mr. SMITH of Missouri (for himself, Georgia, Ms. NORTON, Ms. Mr. CICILLINE): Mr. CUELLAR, Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mrs. WATSON H.R. 4129. A bill to establish a State public Illinois, Ms. DELBENE, and Mr. DANNY COLEMAN, Ms. CLARK of Massachu- option through Medicaid to provide Ameri- K. DAVIS of Illinois): setts, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. cans with the choice of a high-quality, low- H.R. 4135. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- MOULTON, Mr. SMITH of Washington, cost health insurance plan; to the Com- enue Code of 1986 to increase the exclusion Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of New mittee on Energy and Commerce, and in ad- for educational assistance programs; to the York, Mr. ELLISON, Mr. CRIST, Ms. dition to the Committee on Ways and Means, Committee on Ways and Means. BASS, Mr. CARSON of Indiana, Mrs. for a period to be subsequently determined By Mr. SMITH of Missouri (for himself, DEMINGS, Mr. MCNERNEY, and Mr. by the Speaker, in each case for consider- Ms. ESHOO, Mr. MULLIN, and Mr. PRICE of North Carolina): ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- BERA): H. Res. 586. A resolution recognizing the risdiction of the committee concerned. H.R. 4136. A bill to amend title XVIII of the growth and importance of minority women- By Mr. O’ROURKE: Social Security Act to strengthen intensive owned businesses; to the Committee on En- H.R. 4130. A bill to amend title 9, United cardiac rehabilitation programs under the ergy and Commerce. States Code, with respect to arbitration; to Medicare program; to the Committee on En- By Ms. ESTY of Connecticut (for her- the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addi- ergy and Commerce, and in addition to the self, Mr. COURTNEY, Ms. DELAURO, tion to the Committee on Energy and Com- Committee on Ways and Means, for a period Mr. LARSON of Connecticut, and Mr. merce, for a period to be subsequently deter- to be subsequently determined by the Speak- HIMES): mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- er, in each case for consideration of such pro- H. Res. 587. A resolution expressing the sideration of such provisions as fall within visions as fall within the jurisdiction of the sense of the House of Representatives that the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. committee concerned. the deduction for State and local taxes is By Mr. PITTENGER (for himself, Mr. By Ms. STEFANIK: beneficial and should remain intact; to the LOUDERMILK, Mr. KINZINGER, Mr. H.R. 4137. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Committee on Ways and Means. FORTENBERRY, Mr. JORDAN, Mr. enue Code of 1986 to modify the credit for By Mr. FITZPATRICK (for himself, Mr. electricity produced from certain renewable ROHRABACHER, Mr. GOHMERT, Mrs. CHABOT, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mr. BACON, resources and the investment credit for cer- NOEM, Mrs. HARTZLER, Mr. NORMAN, Ms. CLARKE of New York, Mr. NOR- tain qualified investment credit facilities; to Mr. LAMBORN, Mr. LIPINSKI, Mrs. MAN, Mr. EVANS, Mr. MARSHALL, Mrs. the Committee on Ways and Means. BLACK, Mr. BIGGS, Mr. JENKINS of MURPHY of Florida, Mr. COMER, Mr. By Ms. WILSON of Florida (for herself, West Virginia, Mr. WEBSTER of Flor- LAWSON of Florida, Mr. KING of Iowa, Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, Mr. ELLISON, ida, Mr. ROTHFUS, Mr. DUNCAN of Mr. SCHNEIDER, Mrs. RADEWAGEN, Ms. Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. Tennessee, Mr. CRAMER, Mr. WALKER, ADAMS, and Mr. KNIGHT): Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Mr. SMITH of RUSH, Ms. LEE, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. H. Res. 588. A resolution supporting the New Jersey, Mr. DUNCAN of South LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. SCOTT of Vir- goals and ideals of National Veterans Small Carolina, Mr. LUETKEMEYER, Mr. ginia, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. Business Week; to the Committee on Small PALAZZO, Mr. MOONEY of West Vir- HASTINGS, Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. CLAY, Business. ginia, Mr. ROKITA, Mr. GIBBS, Mr. Mr. BUTTERFIELD, Mr. VEASEY, Ms. f JONES, Mr. HUDSON, Mrs. WAGNER, JACKSON LEE, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida, Mr. LAWSON of Florida, Mr. THOMPSON of CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY DUNN, Mr. JODY B. HICE of Georgia, Mississippi, Mr. CLYBURN, Mr. AL STATEMENT Mr. BANKS of Indiana, Mr. YOHO, Mr. GREEN of Texas, Mr. MCEACHIN, Ms. Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of JOHNSON of Louisiana, Mr. GAETZ, FUDGE, Ms. CLARKE of New York, Mr. Mr. MESSER, Mr. BRAT, Mr. WIL- RICHMOND, Ms. BASS, and Ms. KELLY the Rules of the House of Representa- LIAMS, Mr. MOOLENAAR, Mr. BABIN, of Illinois): tives, the following statements are sub- Mr. HARRIS, Mr. DAVIDSON, Mr. H. Con. Res. 86. Concurrent resolution con- mitted regarding the specific powers WEBER of Texas, Mr. HULTGREN, Mr. demning the racist and hate-based attacks granted to Congress in the Constitu- ROE of Tennessee, Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT on our college campuses and reaffirming our tion to enact the accompanying bill or support for inclusion and safety in our insti- of Georgia, Mr. WITTMAN, Mr. joint resolution. LAMALFA, Mr. FLORES, Mr. ROUZER, tutions of higher learning; to the Committee By Ms. BONAMICI: and Mr. BOST): on Education and the Workforce. H.R. 4131. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- By Ms. WILSON of Florida (for herself, H.R. 4115. Congress has the power to enact this legis- enue Code of 1986 to impose federal taxes on Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, Mr. ELLISON, lation pursuant to the following: bonds used to provide facilities owned by Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. Article I, Section 8 abortion providers; to the Committee on RUSH, Ms. LEE, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. SCOTT of Vir- By Mr. DOGGETT: Ways and Means. H.R. 4116. ginia, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. By Mr. RUTHERFORD (for himself, Congress has the power to enact this legis- HASTINGS, Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. CLAY, Mrs. RADEWAGEN, Mr. COFFMAN, and lation pursuant to the following: Mr. BUTTERFIELD, Mr. VEASEY, Ms. Mr. DUNN): Article I, Section 8, Clauses 3 and 18 of the JACKSON LEE, Mr. PAYNE, Mr. H.R. 4132. A bill to amend title 38, United Constitution of the United States of America LAWSON of Florida, Mr. EVANS, Mr. States Code, to make certain improvements By Mr. DOGGETT: THOMPSON of Mississippi, Mr. CLY- in the Health Professionals Educational As- H.R. 4117. sistance Program of the Department of Vet- BURN, Mr. AL GREEN of Texas, Ms. Congress has the power to enact this legis- erans Affairs, and for other purposes; to the FUDGE, Ms. CLARKE of New York, Ms. lation pursuant to the following: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. MOORE, Mr. CARSON of Indiana, Mr. Article I, Section 8, Clauses 1, 3 and 18 of By Mr. SESSIONS (for himself and Mr. RICHMOND, Ms. BASS, Mrs. BEATTY, the Constitution of the United States of ROE of Tennessee): and Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts): America H. Con. Res. 87. Concurrent resolution ex- H.R. 4133. A bill to amend title XVIII of the By Mr. POE of Texas: Social Security Act to establish a Medicare pressing the sense of the Congress that tem- H.R. 4118. payment option for patients and eligible pro- porary protected status for Haitian nationals Congress has the power to enact this legis- fessionals to freely contract, without pen- should be extended until that country has lation pursuant to the following: alty, for Medicare fee-for-service items and demonstrably recovered from the 2010 earth- Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18. services, while allowing Medicare bene- quake, the cholera epidemic, Hurricane Mat- By Mr. MESSER: ficiaries to use their Medicare benefits; to thew, and other disasters; to the Committee H.R. 4119. the Committee on Energy and Commerce, on Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Congress has the power to enact this legis- and in addition to the Committee on Ways Committee on the Judiciary, for a period to lation pursuant to the following: and Means, for a period to be subsequently be subsequently determined by the Speaker, Clause 1 and Clause 3 of Section 8 of Arti- determined by the Speaker, in each case for in each case for consideration of such provi- cle I of the Constitution. consideration of such provisions as fall with- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the By Mr. BERA: in the jurisdiction of the committee con- committee concerned. H.R. 4120. cerned. By Ms. ADAMS (for herself, Ms. Congress has the power to enact this legis- By Mr. SIMPSON: VELA´ ZQUEZ, Ms. JUDY CHU of Cali- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 4134. A bill to redesignate the White fornia, Ms. CLARKE of New York, Mrs. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution of Clouds Wilderness in the Sawtooth and MURPHY of Florida, Mr. LAWSON of the United States.

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By Mr. CASTRO of Texas: Article I, Section 8, clause 18 H.R. 721: Mr. BROOKS of Alabama. H.R. 4121. By Mr. PITTENGER: H.R. 747: Mr. BUCHANAN. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4131. H.R. 754: Mr. PITTENGER. lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 785: Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee and Mr. Constitutional Authority—Necessary and lation pursuant to the following: YOHO. Proper Clause (Art. I, Sec. 8, Clause 18) The constitutional authority on which this H.R. 792: Mr. HUIZENGA. THE U.S. CONSTITUTION bill is based on Congress’s power under Arti- H.R. 801: Mr. LONG. ARTICLE I, SECTION 8: POWERS OF cle 1 Section 8 of the Constitution, which H.R. 820: Mr. MEADOWS. CONGRESS grants Congress power over taxation. H.R. 821: Ms. JUDY CHU of California. CLAUSE 18 By Mr. RUTHERFORD: H.R. 846: Mr. POCAN and Mr. WILLIAMS. The Congress shall have power . . . To H.R. 4132. H.R. 919: Mr. REICHERT and Mr. MEEHAN. make all laws which shall be necessary and Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 927: Mr. HECK. proper for carrying into execution the fore- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 991: Mr. CARSON of Indiana. going powers, and all other powers vested by Article 1, Section 8 of the United States H.R. 997: Mr. ROKITA and Mr. MITCHELL. this Constitution in the government of the Constitution. H.R. 1038: Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida. United States, or in any department or offi- By Mr. SESSIONS: H.R. 1108: Ms. SLAUGHTER. cer thereof. H.R. 4133. H.R. 1133: Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio. By Ms. DELAURO: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1148: Ms. SLAUGHTER. H.R. 4122. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1150: Mr. MARCHANT. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Medicare is a health care program under H.R. 1158: Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana. lation pursuant to the following: current law that is operated by the federal H.R. 1160: Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 3 of the United H.R. 1164: Mr. COOK. States Constitution government. This bill would improve the efficiency, accessibility and fairness of the op- H.R. 1175: Mr. POSEY. By Mr. GOTTHEIMER: H.R. 1205: Mr. KILDEE, Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N H.R. 4123. erations of this federal program, especially of New Mexico, Mrs. LAWRENCE, Mr. MESSER, Congress has the power to enact this legis- the purchase of services and freedom to con- Ms. NORTON, Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. DANNY K. lation pursuant to the following: tract between doctors and Medicare recipi- DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. O’HALLERAN, Mr. Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution of ents. This bill directly affects interstate VARGAS, and Mr. ZELDIN. the United States. commerce, which Congress has the power to H.R. 1253: Mr. LOWENTHAL. By Ms. LOFGREN: regulate under Article I, Section 8, Clause 3. H.R. 1276: Mr. WELCH. H.R. 4124. By Mr. SIMPSON: H.R. 1298: Ms. PINGREE. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 4134. H.R. 1344: Ms. JAYAPAL. lation pursuant to the following: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1377: Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1; Article I, lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1384: Mr. MCGOVERN. Section 8, Clause 3. The constitutional authority of Congress H.R. 1406: Mr. GOMEZ, Mrs. WATSON COLE- By Mrs. LOVE: to enact this legislation is provided by Arti- H.R. 4125. cle I, section 8 of the United States Constitu- MAN, and Mr. HUFFMAN. Congress has the power to enact this legis- tion, specifically clause 1 (relating to pro- H.R. 1421: Mr. CONNOLLY. lation pursuant to the following: viding for the general welfare of the United H.R. 1478: Mr. SWALWELL of California, Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18: The Con- States) and clause 18 (relating to the power Miss RICE of New York, and Mr. gress shall have Power To . . . make all to make all laws necessary and proper for KRISHNAMOORTHI. Laws which shall be necessary and proper for carrying out the powers vested in Congress), H.R. 1496: Mr. CALVERT, Mr. COOK, and Mr. carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- and Article IV, section 3, clause 2 (relating ISSA. ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- to the power of Congress to dispose of and H.R. 1552: Mr. GOODLATTE. stitution in the Government of the United make all needful rules and regulations re- H.R. 1606: Mr. YOHO. H.R. 1609: Mr. GRAVES of Georgia. States, or in any Department or Officer specting the territory or other property be- H.R. 1636: Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. thereof. longing to the United States). H.R. 1659: Mr. MOOLENAAR. By Mr. LOWENTHAL: By Mr. SMITH of Missouri: H.R. 1733: Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 4126. H.R. 4135. H.R. 1865: Mr. LUCAS, Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- CAPUANO, and Mr. CULBERSON. lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1880: Mr. MCNERNEY. Article I, Section 8 and Article IV, Section Article I , Section 8, clause 1 provides Con- H.R. 1953: Mr. CRAMER. 3 gress with the power to ‘‘lay and collect H.R. 1955: Mr. COOK. By Mr. LUETKEMEYER: Taxes, Duties, Imposts and Excises’’ in order H.R. 2044: Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of H.R. 4127. to ‘‘provide for the . . . general Welfare of New York and Mr. RUSH. Congress has the power to enact this legis- the United States.’’ H.R. 2077: Ms. SLAUGHTER, Ms. KELLY of Il- lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. SMITH of Missouri: linois, and Ms. ESHOO. The Constitutional authority on which H.R. 4136. H.R. 2091: Mr. RICE of South Carolina. this bill rests is the power of Congress to lay Congress has the power to enact this legis- and collect taxes, duties, imposts, and ex- H.R. 2152: Mr. WESTERMAN and Mr. KING of lation pursuant to the following: Iowa. cises to pay the debts and provide for the Article I, Section 8 of the United States H.R. 2202: Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. common Defense and general welfare of the Constitution. H.R. 2234: Ms. LOFGREN and Mr. POLIS. United States, as enumerated in Article I, By Ms. STEFANIK: H.R. 2259: Mr. GARRETT. Section 8, Clause 1. Thus, Congress has the H.R. 4137. authority not only to increase taxes, but H.R. 2319: Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2320: Ms. HANABUSA. also, to reduce taxes to promote the general lation pursuant to the following: welfare of the United States of America and H.R. 2322: Mr. CORREA and Mr. POE of Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1 of the Con- Texas. her citizens. Additionally, Congress has the stitution of the United States Constitutional authority to regulate com- H.R. 2339: Mr. GAETZ. merce among the States and with Indian f H.R. 2405: Mr. FARENTHOLD. Tribes, as enumerated in Article I, Section 8, H.R. 2429: Mr. SMUCKER, Mr. EVANS, Mr. Clause 3. ADDITIONAL SPONSORS ESPAILLAT, and Mr. SOTO. By Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 2431: Mr. FARENTHOLD, Mr. BIGGS, and Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. of New Mexico: were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 2436: Mr. VALADAO. H.R. 4128. tions, as follows: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2492: Mr. GIBBS, Mr. NORMAN, Mr. WIL- ´ lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 173: Mr. CARDENAS and Mr. KINZINGER. SON of South Carolina, Mr. PITTENGER, Mr. Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the United H.R. 176: Mr. BURGESS. ROE of Tennessee, Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Geor- States Constitution H.R. 233: Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. gia, Mr. WITTMAN, Mr. FLORES, and Mr. By Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mex- H.R. 296: Mr. PALAZZO. ROUZER. ico: H.R. 299: Mr. LIPINSKI. H.R. 2498: Ms. MCCOLLUM. H.R. 4129. H.R. 392: Ms. DEGETTE and Ms. BARRAGA´ N. H.R. 2584: Mr. FLEISCHMANN, Mr. HASTINGS, Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 398: Mr. CRIST. Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsylvania, and Mr. lation pursuant to the following : H.R. 444: Ms. WILSON of Florida. CORREA. Article I, Section 8 H.R. 495: Mr. MARCHANT and Mr. GAETZ. H.R. 2601: Mr. YOHO. By Mr. O’ROURKE: H.R. 525: Mr. CONYERS and Mr. ARRINGTON. H.R. 2625: Mr. ZELDIN, Mr. SWALWELL of H.R. 4130. H.R. 535: Ms. BORDALLO. California, Mr. LOEBSACK, Mr. SEAN PATRICK Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 545: Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio. MALONEY of New York, and Mrs. WATSON lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 620: Mr. CHABOT and Mr. RATCLIFFE. COLEMAN.

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H.R. 2628: Mr. POCAN and Mr. YARMUTH. H.R. 3699: Ms. DEGETTE. H.R. 4051: Mr. ENGEL and Mr. KING of New H.R. 2633: Mr. TAKANO. H.R. 3708: Mr. BUDD. York. H.R. 2712: Mr. MCCAUL. H.R. 3738: Mr. BLUMENAUER. H.R. 4052: Mr. SOTO. H.R. 2717: Mr. CURBELO of Florida. H.R. 3748: Mr. O’ROURKE. H.R. 4062: Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. LOWENTHAL, H.R. 2723: Mr. LATTA, Ms. GRANGER, and H.R. 3759: Mr. SCHNEIDER, Mr. BISHOP of and Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. CONAWAY. Michigan, Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH, and Ms. H.R. 4073: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. H.R. 2790: Mr. GOMEZ, Ms. SINEMA, Mrs. JACKSON LEE. H.R. 4079: Ms. MCCOLLUM. LAWRENCE, Mrs. DEMINGS, Mr. LYNCH, Mr. H.R. 3760: Mr. YARMUTH. H.R. 4082: Mr. THOMPSON of California, Mr. KENNEDY, Ms. WILSON of Florida, and Ms. H.R. 3761: Mr. WALBERG, Mr. BERGMAN, and KENNEDY, Miss RICE of New York, Mrs. DAVIS TSONGAS. Mr. LAMBORN. of California, and Mr. POCAN. H.R. 2881: Ms. LOFGREN. H.R. 3767: Ms. NORTON. H.R. 4097: Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, Mr. H.R. 2901: Mr. YARMUTH. H.R. 3770: Mr. KNIGHT, Mr. WITTMAN, and LARSON of Connecticut, Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS H.R. 2943: Mr. CAPUANO and Mrs. WATSON Mr. POSEY. of Illinois, Mr. HIGGINS of New York, Mr. COLEMAN. H.R. 3784: Ms. PINGREE, Ms. DELAURO, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Mr. MOULTON, Ms. CLARK H.R. 2999: Mrs. COMSTOCK. GOHMERT, Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts, Mr. of Massachusetts, Mr. BLUMENAUER, and Mr. H.R. 3117: Mr. LUETKEMEYER, Mr. SMITH of HARRIS, and Mr. BLUMENAUER. MCGOVERN. Missouri, Mr. STEWART, and Mr. BARTON. H.R. 3792: Mr. PASCRELL and Ms. FRANKEL H.R. 4098: Mr. HASTINGS. H.R. 3136: Mr. MOULTON. of Florida. H.R. 4099: Ms. KUSTER of New Hampshire. H.R. 3179: Mr. MESSER and Mr. LUETKE- H.R. 3798: Mr. HUDSON, Mrs. WAGNER, Mr. H.R. 4105: Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of MEYER. RICE of South Carolina, Ms. JENKINS of Kan- New Mexico and Mr. MCGOVERN. H.R. 3200: Mr. GARRETT. sas, and Mr. PAULSEN. H.R. 4112: Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts, H.R. 3222: Ms. SHEA-PORTER and Mr. TONKO. H.R. 3811: Mr. RASKIN. Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Ms. DELAURO, and H.R. 3248: Mr. EVANS. H.R. 3814: Mr. EVANS. Mr. CLAY. H.R. 3275: Ms. ROSEN. H.R. 3826: Mrs. DINGELL. H.R. 4114: Ms. LEE. H.R. 3301: Mr. FRANKS of Arizona and Mr. H.R. 3839: Mr. DESAULNIER. H. Con. Res. 10: Mr. KINZINGER. BIGGS. H.R. 3881: Mr. POLIS, Mr. DELANEY, Mr. H. Con. Res. 43: Ms. MOORE, Mr. KHANNA, H.R. 3331: Mr. ESTES of Kansas. SIRES, Ms. ROSEN, Mr. NOLAN, Ms. SCHA- and Ms. NORTON. H.R. 3349: Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. KOWSKY, Mr. SWALWELL of California, and H. Res. 30: Mrs. COMSTOCK. H.R. 3350: Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana and Mr. Mr. PERLMUTTER. H. Res. 199: Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. LOEBSACK. H.R. 3887: Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. H. Res. 220: Mr. CARSON of Indiana and Ms. H.R. 3378: Mr. PERLMUTTER. H.R. 3897: Mr. KIND, Mr. BERGMAN, Mr. WIL- DEGETTE. H.R. 3415: Mrs. WAGNER. SON of South Carolina, Mr. JOHNSON of Lou- H. Res. 244: Mr. GOMEZ. H.R. 3441: Mr. DESJARLAIS. isiana, Mr. KRISHNAMOORTHI, Mr. NORMAN, H. Res. 257: Mr. CRIST. H.R. 3529: Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina. Mr. LIPINSKI, and Mr. LANGEVIN. H. Res. 283: Mr. DESAULNIER. APUANO OSS H.R. 3544: Mr. C . H.R. 3918: Mr. R . H. Res. 401: Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. KILMER, H.R. 3545: Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. H.R. 3940: Mr. KNIGHT and Mrs. NAPOLI- and Mr. LAWSON of Florida. H.R. 3548: Mr. GAETZ. TANO. H. Res. 563: Mr. FOSTER, Mr. RASKIN, Mr. H.R. 3566: Mr. SOTO and Ms. SEWELL of Ala- H.R. 3956: Mr. PETERSON, Mr. KELLY of MCGOVERN, and Mr. LUETKEMEYER. bama. Pennsylvania, Mr. PAULSEN, Mr. SMITH of H. Res. 571: Ms. WILSON of Florida and Mr. H.R. 3596: Mr. FORTENBERRY, Mr. WILSON of Missouri, and Mr. MULLIN. KHANNA. South Carolina, and Mr. LUETKEMEYER. H.R. 3966: Mr. BROOKS of Alabama, Mr. H. Res. 584: Mr. BISHOP of Georgia. H.R. 3606: Mr. DESAULNIER. LOUDERMILK, Mr. DAVIDSON, and Mr. POSEY. H.R. 3632: Mr. YOUNG of Iowa, Ms. MENG, H.R. 3970: Mr. HUFFMAN. f Mr. COOK, and Mr. DEFAZIO. H.R. 3976: Mr. MOULTON, Mr. POCAN, Mr. H.R. 3641: Ms. KELLY of Illinois, Mr. RICH- TURNER, Mr. BISHOP of Michigan, Ms. WILSON MOND, Mr. WALKER, Mr. BROWN of Maryland, of Florida, Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana, Mr. DELETIONS OF SPONSORS FROM Mr. CLAY, Mr. YARMUTH, and Mrs. BLACK- YOHO, and Mr. PAYNE. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS BURN. H.R. 3979: Mr. WESTERMAN and Mrs. Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 3666: Mr. KIND. RADEWAGEN. were deleted from public bills and reso- H.R. 3684: Ms. SEWELL of Alabama and Mr. H.R. 3988: Mr. POSEY. LOWENTHAL. H.R. 4006: Mr. KENNEDY and Ms. STEFANIK. lutions, as follows: H.R. 3692: Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of H.R. 4007: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. H.R. 3941: Mr. CARBAJAL, Mr. PRICE of New Mexico. H.R. 4020: Mr. SOTO and Mr. BISHOP of North Carolina, Ms. FUDGE, Mr. HUFFMAN, H.R. 3695: Mr. SMITH of Washington, Mr. Georgia. Mr. VEASEY, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr LARSEN of Washington, and Mr. SCHNEIDER. H.R. 4035: Mr. PALMER. CA´ RDENAS, and Mr. LOEBSACK.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:00 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00081 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC7.033 H25OCPT1 E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 115 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 25, 2017 No. 172 Senate The Senate met at 9:30 a.m. and was appoint the Honorable RAND PAUL, a Senator fort to take more money out of Wash- called to order by the Honorable RAND from the Commonwealth of Kentucky, to ington’s pockets and put more in mid- PAUL, a Senator from the Common- perform the duties of the Chair. dle-class pockets. It is also clear we are wealth of Kentucky. ORRIN G. HATCH, all excited about this once-in-a-genera- President pro tempore. f tion opportunity to get America going Mr. PAUL thereupon assumed the again and growing again. PRAYER CHAIR as Acting President pro tempore. So we are watching our friends in the The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- f House with anticipation as they con- fered the following prayer: RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME sider the comprehensive, responsible Let us pray. budget that cleared the Senate last The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- Almighty God, the foundation of true week. We anticipate they will pass it pore. Under the previous order, the wisdom, You extend Your powerful do- by the end of the week. Once they do, leadership time is reserved. minion over the universe. Stand by our we will have important legislative lawmakers, and protect them with f tools to move tax reform forward. That Your might. Lord, refresh them with CONCLUSION OF MORNING is something everyone can look for- Your wisdom as You prepare them not BUSINESS ward to. More importantly, that is only for time but eternity. Lord, we The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- something the American people de- praise You for ethically congruent law- pore. Morning business is closed. serve, especially after so many years of makers, who, in their inmost beings, an economy that failed to reach its po- f are true and honest. Give us more Sen- tential—an economy that, so often, ators who are as true to duty as the EXECUTIVE SESSION failed them. needle to the pole. Give us more legis- Tax reform represents the single lators who are not afraid to call sin by most important thing we can do today EXECUTIVE CALENDAR its right name. Lord, provide us with to get the economy reaching for its full more patriots who will stand for right The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- potential. We are looking forward to regardless of the consequences. pore. Under the previous order, the taking the next steps very soon to get We pray in Your sovereign Name. Senate will proceed to executive ses- it done. Amen. sion and resume consideration of the Mr. President, on another matter, I f Palk nomination, which the clerk will would like to again commend Presi- report. dent Trump for the outstanding judi- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE The legislative clerk read the nomi- cial nominees he has sent us this year. The Presiding Officer led the Pledge nation of Scott L. Palk, of Oklahoma, So far, every nominee we have brought of Allegiance, as follows: to be United States District Judge for to the floor has been confirmed by a I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the the Western District of Oklahoma. majority vote in the Senate. In some United States of America, and to the Repub- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- cases, those majority votes have been lic for which it stands, one nation under God, pore. Under the previous order, the bipartisan and massive, like 95 to 1, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. time until 10:30 a.m. will be equally di- like 97 to 0. Yet almost every time a ju- f vided between the two leaders or their dicial nominee is brought to the floor— APPOINTMENT OF ACTING designees. even nominees with votes like these, PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY LEADER nominees whom both parties support— The majority leader is recognized. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Democrats throw up partisan proce- clerk will please read a communication TAX REFORM dural roadblocks. For what reason? to the Senate from the President pro Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, Certainly, it is not to change the out- Senate Republicans had a productive come. No. Like I said, in many cases, tempore (Mr. HATCH). The legislative clerk read the fol- discussion with President Trump yes- Democrats actually support the nomi- lowing letter: terday about our shared agenda. We nees. They are just wasting more of the were particularly focused on how to Senate’s time because they can. They U.S. SENATE, bring tax relief, economic growth, and are doing it again now. Let’s take the PRESIDENT PRO TEMPORE, Washington, DC, October 25, 2017. jobs to the middle class through tax re- two judicial nominees who are cur- To the Senate: form. rently before the Senate. Under the provisions of rule I, paragraph 3, It is clear we share a lot of the same First, there is Scott Palk. After near- of the Standing Rules of the Senate, I hereby goals. It is clear we are united in an ef- ly two decades as a State and Federal

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

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.000 S25OCPT1 S6778 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 prosecutor, Mr. Palk has the legal skill temporary. He is certainly right. It ers State income so that whether or and community support to excel as a should comfort him, however, that his- not you use the State and local deduc- U.S. district judge for the Western Dis- tory will judge Senator FLAKE and Sen- tion, your school board, your road trict of Oklahoma. The Senate Judici- ator CORKER as two men of the greatest building, your police, and your fire de- ary Committee approved his nomina- conscience to have graced this Cham- partments will be hurt as they will be tion by a large, bipartisan vote of 17 to ber on either side of the aisle in a long creating a huge deficit. 3. time. This Senate will be much poorer So a compromise doesn’t work here. I Then there is Trevor McFadden. Mr. for their departures. have named some of my Republican McFadden’s sterling record of public THE BUDGET AND REPUBLICAN TAX PLAN colleagues in New York. One of them service makes him an ideal candidate Mr. President, last week the Senate got very mad yesterday. All I say is for the U.S. District Court for the Dis- passed one of the worst budgets in our this: In 1986 there was a Democratic trict of Columbia. Not a single Mem- Nation’s history. It excuses one of the tax reform bill led by Senator Bradley ber—not one—of either party opposed most massive expansions of the na- and Congressman Gephardt. I had the him. tional debt ever—$1.5 trillion. It directs same conviction and with the same These nominees should have sailed to the committees to take a sledge- strength and velocity opposed their confirmation yesterday. Instead, hammer to Medicaid and Medicare, taking away State and local, even Democrats are forcing us to waste time again to the tune of $1.5 trillion, and it though they were of my own party. We so we can again arrive at the exact sets up the same awful, partisan proc- worked hard and we succeeded. Tax re- same conclusion, but simply later this ess that Republicans used to try to jam form passed in 1986 with Ronald Rea- week. healthcare through for tax cuts. gan’s blessing. I supported it. It was This really has to stop. The budget is now before the House. real tax reform. We closed loopholes In President Obama’s first year in of- I hope every House Member is taking a and lowered rates. We did not just give fice, Republicans forced this procedural close look at it, and Republican Mem- massive tax breaks and let the deficit hurdle for a single judicial nominee, bers who come from States such as go up. But State and local was re- and it was a controversial one. New York, New Jersey, Washington, moved, and the bill still passed. Let me say that again. In President California, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Illi- So I would simply ask my Republican Obama’s first year in office, Repub- nois, and Minnesota should pay par- colleagues to oppose their party leader- licans forced the procedural hurdle we ticular attention to the issue of State ship when it hurts their States and have had to endure many times for one and local deductibility. There is no constituencies, as I did back in 1986 nominee, and that nominee was con- doubt the elimination of State and when I was a fourth-term Member of troversial. local affects States and congressional Congress. In President Trump’s first year in of- districts over the entire country. Now a few Members of the New York fice, Democrats have forced this proce- For instance, one of the States that and New Jersey delegation—a whole dural hurdle for every single judicial pays the highest rates and gets the bunch in New York—have come out nominee except one, even if they actu- highest tax break from State and local against the elimination of State and ally supported him or her in the end. is Utah. Thirty-five percent of Utahns local deductibility. I salute them. They This is just the kind of partisan game take it because it is such a large per- have done what they should do. In the that Americans are so sick of. centage tithe, and they don’t use the eyes of the Founding Fathers, they President Trump should be com- standard deduction. It affects middle- have represented their States and their mended for his strong judicial picks. class families in every State. In the constituents. They have not rep- The Senate is going to keep working State it has the lowest effect on, West resented these hard-right, corporate, hard to confirm them, and we are going Virginia, it will still affect 17 percent wealthy interests that just want their to succeed. The only question is wheth- of families. I don’t have the numbers in taxes reduced. Are the remaining Mem- er the Democrats are going to keep front of me, but my guess is that Ken- bers of the Republican delegation from wasting more of the Senate’s time get- tucky, the home State of our Acting New York and New Jersey, as well as ting there. I hope they won’t. I hope President pro tempore, is probably in Members from Washington State, Cali- they will end these pointless games so the twenties. But in many States, the fornia, Pennsylvania, Virginia, Min- that the Senate can keep its time and State and local deduction is claimed by nesota, Illinois, and all the other focus where it belongs. over one-third of taxpayers and States going to stand up now because I suggest the absence of a quorum. amounts to tens of thousands of dollars they know this hurts middle-class con- The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- a year in deductions. stituents? This is not a tax break for pore. The clerk will call the roll. In California, 34 percent of taxpayers the rich. The rich have lots of other big The legislative clerk proceeded to take the deduction for an average of tax breaks, and the property taxes that call the roll. $18,400. In New Jersey, 41 percent of they pay are not that much in terms of Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I ask taxpayers claim State and local with their income. I hope they will stand up unanimous consent that the order for an average deduction of $17,850. Faced as some of my courageous colleagues the quorum call be rescinded. with this, some of our colleagues are have in New York State and in New The ACTING PRESIDENT pro tem- looking for a compromise. They say: Jersey. pore. Without objection, it is so or- Well, let’s just take away the deduc- Here is another reason we don’t want dered. tion for the people who earn above to eliminate the State and local deduc- RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY LEADER $200,000, $300,000, or even $400,000. Or tion. A recent study by The Democratic leader is recognized. they say: You can choose between tak- PricewaterhouseCoopers found that Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, good ing the State and local deduction or under the Republican tax plan, any morning. the mortgage deduction. That is like homeowner with an income of between COMMENDING SENATORS FLAKE AND CORKER saying: Taxpayer, we will chop off your $50,000 and $200,000 would see an annual Yesterday we all learned that our left hand or your right hand, but we average increase of $815. colleague Senator FLAKE will be retir- will give you the choice. Here is the amazing part of their ing at the end of his term. After Sen- Even without the mortgage trade, a study. They say that home prices ator CORKER’s announcement a few compromise doesn’t work. It doesn’t would fall 10.2 percent in the short weeks ago, this was another blow to work for a few reasons. No. 1, it is dou- term. That makes sense. If you are a this body. Senators FLAKE and CORKER ble taxation. You are being taxed on new homeowner or buying another are both men of principle, decency, and paying tax. No. 2, for States like New home, you calculate: How much is my conscience. York, particularly my upstate col- mortgage? How much are my property In his address here on the floor short- leagues, it chases away businesses. taxes? What deductions will I get? If ly after his announcement, Senator Companies don’t want to locate in a you don’t get the deduction, you have FLAKE alluded to the great figures of place where their top executives are less money to pay the mortgage be- history who toiled at these desks to re- going to pay a lot more, because they cause you are paying higher taxes. So mind us that our time here is only can’t deduct their taxes. No. 3, it low- the demand for homes goes down, the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.001 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6779 price new home buyers are willing to a good idea. I know some of you truly like it. The number—low enough as it pay is less, and home prices go down. believe—the Senator from Pennsyl- is—in support of the Trump tax plan So my Republican colleagues, par- vania, a Republican, has spent his life- will get lower. ticularly those in the House who have time, when he was at the Club for Listen to this: In the same poll, near- to vote on this bill tomorrow, are going Growth, advocating that cutting taxes ly two-thirds of Republicans said that to hit their middle-class and upper on the biggest corporations and deficit reduction was more important middle class constituents with a double wealthiest individuals fuels the econ- than tax cuts for corporations. Two- whammy if they vote for this bill. They omy. Talk directly about it. thirds of Republicans said that deficit will pay more taxes, their home values I hear the words ‘‘middle class’’ com- reduction was more important than tax will go down, and home values are the ing out of our Republican colleagues’ cuts for corporations. That is not what rock of the middle class. That is what mouths but not ‘‘wealthy’’ or ‘‘big cor- the bill says. The poll also showed that people work for their whole lives. The porations.’’ And let me just say it three-quarters of Republicans said that happiness someone 45 or 50 years old doesn’t prove to be true. deficit reduction was more important has when they pay off their mortgage The corporate tax rate was much than tax cuts for the wealthy. Again, and their home is theirs is great. Why lower than the official tax rate. Ac- the bill does the opposite. delay that? Why impede that? Why im- cording to Goldman Sachs, our big cor- The Republican plan balloons the def- pugn that? porations have more money than they icit by $1.5 trillion to do those two Are our Republican colleagues will- have ever had and are paying a lower things—tax cuts for the wealthiest cor- ing to go home and explain to their tax rate than they ever have, and they porations and tax cuts for the rich. The middle-class constituents why their are not creating jobs. Give me one rea- more Republicans find out about the taxes are going up and their home val- son why giving them a tax break will plan, the less they will like it. ues are going down? Because if they are now have them starting to create jobs In conclusion, as the House debates not willing to confront that, they when they are already flush with cash. the Senate budget this week, I urge shouldn’t vote for this bill. How about the example of Kansas, them to consider first and foremost The budget is a betrayal of the mid- and I say this particularly to my two what the plan would mean for their dle-class men and women who sent friends. Both are my friends. When I constituents. I would tell them, should House Members to Congress, who sent see them both in the gym—I used to they vote down this budget, there are a all of us to the Senate and the House. play basketball with one. I would say large number of Democrats, including For many in the middle class, as I said, to my two friends, the Senators from the minority leader, who want to sit it raises taxes and erodes property val- Kansas, look at what happened to your down with Republicans and come up ues. And why? To lavish tax breaks on own State, the home of Charles Koch. with a nice, mainstream plan, not a big corporations and the superrich. Its Big tax breaks, huge tax breaks will plan to please the thousand wealthiest main focus is to give a tax cut to cor- make Kansas the growth center of families in America who have so much porations and the top 1 percent. America. What happened? They gave say over the Republican Party and I would say to the average American: huge tax breaks. They predicted that shouldn’t. But we want to work with Is your No. 1 goal reducing taxes on big income would go up in the Kansas you on a real, bipartisan plan. Defeat corporations and the richest people in State treasury by $300 million. It went this plan, and we will, just as we prom- America? Well, that is the Republican down by $700 million. They had to actu- ised on healthcare, and we have. Party’s No. 1 goal. They say they must ally consider schools going from 5 to 4 I yield the floor. have tax reform. It is their No. 1 pri- days. And job growth, this great engine The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. COT- ority. And this bill, the core of it, the of job growth—Kansas grew last year TON). The assistant Democratic leader. raison d’eˇtre for it, is to cut taxes on by 0.2 percent. The American economy Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I want big corporations and the wealthiest grew by 1.6 percent. It was a total flop. to thank my colleague and the Demo- people. Kansas not only rejected the proposal cratic leader, Senator SCHUMER, for his Again, to the American people: Is by raising taxes after they had cut statement on this Trump tax plan. I your No. 1 goal the same as the Repub- them so deeply, they also threw out a think he really has summarized in his lican Party’s here in the Senate and in lot of the more conservative Repub- statement the concerns many of us the House—to cut taxes on the richest licans, and there was a rebellion within have. corporations, to cut taxes on the the Republican Party itself. We are concerned that the Trump tax wealthiest individuals? I don’t think Trading middle-class deductions for a plan will do several things. It will cut so. Do you, Mr. and Mrs. American, tax cut for the rich is not a fair trade. funds for education in America at a think that is what Congress should be Raising taxes on so many middle-class time when we need it now more than gearing up to do when it has done so people so you can pay for tax cuts for ever to prepare our people for the jobs little? I don’t think so. The Republican the rich makes no sense, and it makes of the future. It endangers Medicare, a Party is making a huge mistake. no sense particularly now that the program that for almost 50 million It is not that there shouldn’t be tax scales are tipped more in favor of the Americans is critical for the reform. There should be—but real re- wealthy and powerful than ever before. healthcare they receive. At the same form. Big corporations pay a real rate That is why the American people, time, it is going to dramatically in- of 16 percent. If we were to lower those now that they realize we are getting crease the deficit. For so long, we have rates and close loopholes, we would be close here, despite all the distracting heard from the Republicans that their doing the economy a favor. As I said, I issues the President tweets about—by No. 1 issue was cutting the deficit, and helped pass that in 1986 once they the way, I hear that in the Republican now they come up with a tax plan that abandoned State and local deduct- caucus, he talked about no details on will increase the size of our deficit. Fi- ibility. If it is simply to give a huge the tax plan; he just said get it done. nally, of course, all of this is being tax cut to the wealthiest people and No details. I know why—they are done to create tax breaks for the biggest corporations, the recent polling afraid to talk about it. The President wealthy and the biggest corporations data has shown that the vast majority may not know the details, but our Re- in America. of Americans are against it. A majority publican colleagues do, and they are Here are the simple facts: As a per- of Americans say: If it means a small afraid to talk about the details in pub- centage of our gross domestic product, tax break for me and a big tax break lic. corporate profits in America have for the wealthiest, I am not for it. The bottom line is that the American never been higher. Corporate profits So I am going to challenge my Re- people are learning what this plan is have never been higher. As a percent- publican colleagues: Go out there and about, and they don’t like what they age of the gross domestic product, cor- speak plainly and honestly about your see. In a recent Reuters/Ipsos poll, porate Federal taxes paid have never plan. Don’t hide behind fake talking fewer than one-third of all Americans been lower. Profits never higher, taxes points and fake math. It is a massive supported it. And just like healthcare, never lower, and the Trump tax plan tax cut for corporations and the I believe that the more Americans says: Let’s cut corporate taxes even wealthy. Defend it, why you think it is learn about the plan, the less they will more, and then let’s cut taxes on the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.002 S25OCPT1 S6780 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 wealthiest people even more. That is Now, with President Trump’s an- wants to be part of America’s military. not a fair tax plan. It is not a fair tax nouncement that he is going to elimi- Then, after serving his country, he reform. nate this program, the clock is ticking. wants to be an officer with his local po- The Trump tax plan sadly rewards By March 5, 2018, every workday for the lice department. Thanks to DACA, he the biggest corporations and the following 2 years, approximately 1,400 is on his way. wealthiest individuals at the cost of of these Dreamers protected by DACA Last year, he enlisted in the Army cutting education, endangering Medi- will lose their work permits and will be through the MAVNI Program. In this care, and unfortunately increasing the subject to deportation. Mr. President, photo, he is shown with his recruiter deficit, to be paid for by our children. 1,400 a day who signed up for this pro- from his enlistment ceremony. The The tax break for the wealthiest people gram, as of March 5 next year, will MAVNI Program allows immigrants in the Trump tax plan doesn’t go to the hear the clock ticking. Teachers will like him, who are vital to the national rich. It doesn’t even go to the very be forced to leave their students, interest, to enlist in the Armed Forces. rich. It goes to the superrich—the nurses to leave their patients, first re- More than 800 DACA recipients with superrich. Who am I talking about? sponders to leave their posts, and sol- these critical skills have had their The one-tenth of 1 percent. The highest diers who are willing to fight for their dream come true. They have volun- incomes in America—way beyond the country will be forced to leave the teered to serve America in our mili- rich. It is not a person who drives a big Army if this happens. It is an outcome tary. limousine; it is a person who is never that none of us want to see, I hope. Some Trump administration officials going to drive the rest of their lives It isn’t just a looming humanitarian have claimed that DACA recipients are and owns a big yacht. Those folks—the crisis; it is economic too. The non- taking jobs away from Americans. But one-tenth of 1 percent—get 40 percent partisan Institute on Taxation and William and hundreds more like him of all the tax breaks in the Trump tax Economic Policy says that DACA-eligi- have vital skills that our military des- plan. That may be good news for the ble individuals contribute about $2 bil- perately needs, and they want him to President and his colleagues and lion a year to our economy. They are serve our country. William, along with friends and even his family; it is not working. They are going to school. many Dreamers, is now waiting to ship good news for working Americans. To These are productive people who to basic training. He continues his un- think that we would cut education, en- against the odds have succeeded in life dergraduate studies and is working full danger Medicare, and increase the def- and want to do more. time while waiting for his first chance icit to give that level of income, the The Cato Institute—no liberal think to serve. wealthiest people in our country, such tank—estimates that ending DACA and He wrote me a letter, and here is a tax break is hard to imagine. deporting DACA recipients would cost what he said: ‘‘My desire to serve this Sadly, one of the provisions in the $60 billion and result in a $280 billion nation and help people, to pay back my Trump tax plan creates an incentive reduction in economic growth over the dues for everything I have received for companies to move jobs overseas, next 10 years. from this great country, and to lead by because they will have a lower tax rate Poll after poll shows overwhelming example by showing my fellow DACA if they do. Think about that. A Presi- bipartisan support for the Dreamers. members that anything is possible with dent who has told us over and over Even FOX News—no liberal media out- hard work, perseverance, and dedica- again that we want to ‘‘make America let—recently found that 79 percent of tion.’’ great again’’ creates a tax program to Americans support a path to citizen- Is there any doubt in anyone’s mind incentivize businesses to locate over- ship for Dreamers—79 percent. What that this young man, William, des- seas and make their profits overseas. percentage of Republicans support it? perate to serve our country and to be a That makes no sense whatsoever, but According to the FOX poll, 63 percent law enforcement officer, will be an that is the Trump tax plan. I am glad of Donald Trump voters believe that asset to the United States, a source of Senator SCHUMER brought that up. Dreamers should be given a chance at pride for all of us? Of course not. If DACA citizenship. DACA goes away and is not replaced, if Mr. President, let me address the The answer is clear: We need to pass this young man loses that opportunity, issue of the Dreamers. It is one that I the DREAM Act, and we need to do it America will lose an important part of have spoken to many times before, and before we leave Washington in the next its future. I would like to address it at this point. few weeks. It was 16 years ago that I I was at the Phoenix Military Acad- On September 5, about 7 weeks ago first introduced it. We have had our emy, one of six military academies today, Attorney General Jeff Sessions ups and downs. We have passed it at within the Chicago public schools, just announced the Trump administration’s some time on the floor of the Senate last week. I am proud to say that our repeal of the Deferred Action for Child- and then again in the House of Rep- Chicago public school system hosts the hood Arrivals Program, better known resentatives but never quite at the largest ROTC Program in America, as DACA. same moment so that it became the with 10,000 cadets from school to DACA provided temporary legal sta- law of the land. school. It turns out that many of them tus to immigrant students if they reg- Over the years, I have told over 100 are DACA Dreamers. They want to istered with the government, paid a stories about the Dreamers. This is an- serve our country just like William. I fee, went through a criminal back- other one I want to share with you. was joined by COL Daniel Baggio, who ground check and a national security This is a story about William Medeiros. runs the Junior ROTC Program. His check, and did that on a renewable William was 6 years old when his fam- grandfather was an immigrant who basis every 2 years. ily moved to the United States from served in the U.S. Army during World The young people protected by that Brazil. He grew up in Boston and then War I. Colonel Baggio certainly under- Executive order are known as Dream- moved to Florida. In high school, he stands the important role immigrants ers. They came to the United States as was an honor student. He graduated play in our Armed Forces. children, brought here by their par- with a 3.8 GPA. He was an athlete, William Medeiros and other Dream- ents. They grew up in our schools, sing- playing high school soccer and football. ers have so much to give America, but ing our ‘‘Star-Spangled Banner,’’ pledg- He is now a student at the University without the Dream Act, William and ing allegiance to the only flag they of Central Florida. He has a 3.5 GPA. hundreds of other immigrants with have ever known. Seven years ago, I He will graduate in the spring of 2019 skills that are vital to the national in- asked President Obama, in a letter with a bachelor’s degree in criminal terest will literally be kicked out of that I sent with then-Republican-Sen- justice. the Army. Thousands of Junior ROTC ator Dick Lugar, to create a program He is working full time to support cadets in Chicago will never realize to protect these young people and give himself. Because he is a DACA recipi- their dream of volunteering to enlist in them a chance to earn their way into ent, he isn’t eligible for any Federal fi- America’s military. They want to legal status. The President responded nancial assistance to go to college. He serve. They are willing to risk their to our request, and almost 800,000 have has to work his way through school, lives for our country. How can we let signed up. and he is doing it. His dream is that he them down?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.004 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6781 When we introduced the Dream Act, Allow me to explain what I mean by use tax reform to catch up, to boost Senator LINDSEY GRAHAM, Republican that. Federal investment in our roads, our international competitiveness, to of South Carolina, said: ‘‘The moment our bridges, our railways, and our wa- lower costs for consumers, and to put of reckoning is coming.’’ It is coming terways would be a shot in the arm for our economy back on track to 3 per- in a manner of days and weeks. I im- the American economy. It would pay cent-plus growth, which the American plore my colleagues and both sides of dividends for decades. Companies need people expect and deserve. the aisle: Don’t let that young man good roads and bridges and shipping I suggest the absence of a quorum. down. Don’t let down the hundreds of channels to transport their products The PRESIDING OFFICER. The thousands who just want a chance to and to ensure that they aren’t sitting clerk will call the roll. prove themselves and earn their way in traffic for hours—sometimes it The bill clerk proceeded to call the into legal status. We can do this. seems like days—which eats away at roll. Many people are skeptical as to profits and raises costs for our people. Mr. SHELBY. Mr. President, I ask whether Congress can get anything But for too long, Washington’s spend- unanimous consent that the order for done on a bipartisan basis. I am not ing priorities have been to grow the the quorum call be rescinded. skeptical. I believe it can. I believe Federal bureaucracy instead of growing The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without that we can work together. I have sat our capacity for economic expansion objection, it is so ordered. down with a lot of conservative Repub- and development through infrastruc- CLOTURE MOTION lican Senators in my office—Senators I ture upgrades. We know the result. Our Pursuant to rule XXII, the Chair lays never dreamed I would be sitting with, Department of Transportation now es- before the Senate the pending cloture discussing this issue, and now we want timates that we have a backlog of con- motion, which the clerk will state. to make sure we get this job done. struction and repairs that would cost The bill clerk read as follows: I yield the floor. $926 billion to clear. It would cost near- CLOTURE MOTION The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ly a trillion dollars, and that is just ator from Louisiana. the backlog. We, the undersigned Senators, in accord- I have a simple solution that I would ance with the provisions of rule XXII of the PROVIDING FOR A CORRECTION IN THE Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby ENROLLMENT OF H.R. 2266 respectfully suggest to get us back on move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I ask track. According to the Congressional nation of Scott L. Palk, of Oklahoma, to be unanimous consent that, as in legisla- Research Service, $2.6 trillion in cor- United States District Judge for the Western tive session, the Senate proceed to the porate profits made by American com- District of Oklahoma. immediate consideration of H. Con. panies are parked overseas, and some Mitch McConnell, Orrin G. Hatch, John Res. 85, which was received from the outside estimates say $4 or $5 trillion. Cornyn, Chuck Grassley, Thom Tillis, Pat Roberts, John Barrasso, Johnny House. This money is overseas, and it will not be brought back to America as long as Isakson, Roger F. Wicker, John Thune, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Marco Rubio, James Lankford, Richard clerk will report the concurrent resolu- our antiquated corporate tax system is Burr, Steve Daines, Mike Crapo, John tion by title. going to charge those American compa- Boozman, James M. Inhofe. The bill clerk read as follows: nies 35 percent in tax just to bring The PRESIDING OFFICER. By unan- A concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 85) them back. imous consent, the mandatory quorum Congress is already discussing repa- providing for a correction in the enrollment call has been waived. triation as a part of the move to a ter- of H.R. 2266. The question is, Is it the sense of the ritorial tax system, which would use a There being no objection, the Senate Senate that debate on the nomination competitive tax rate to encourage com- proceeded to consider the concurrent of Scott L. Palk, of Oklahoma, to be panies to bring their dollars back to resolution. United States District Judge for the the United States and keep them here Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I ask Western District of Oklahoma, shall be and invest them here in American unanimous consent that the concur- brought to a close? products and American businesses and rent resolution be agreed to and the The yeas and nays are mandatory motion to reconsider be considered American employees. When tax reform passes—and it will— under the rule. made and laid upon the table with no and we get a one-time surge in tax rev- The clerk will call the roll. intervening action or debate. enue as a result of this $3 to $5 trillion The bill clerk called the roll. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without being brought back to the United Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the objection, it is so ordered. States, we are going to get only one Senator from New Mexico (Mr. HEIN- The concurrent resolution (H. Con. chance to spend that money wisely. In- RICH), the Senator from Vermont (Mr. Res. 85) was agreed to. stead of blowing those repatriated dol- LEAHY), and the Senator from New Jer- f lars on an already bloated Federal bu- sey (Mr. MENENDEZ) are necessarily ab- sent. EXECUTIVE CALENDAR—Continued reaucracy, we ought to invest that money solely and exclusively in des- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. SUL- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- perately needed infrastructure up- LIVAN). Are there any other Senators in ator from Louisiana. grades. Even a one-time target invest- the Chamber desiring to vote? TAX REFORM ment in clearing the industrial backlog The yeas and nays resulted—yeas 79, Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, as the will create jobs and stimulate the nays 18, as follows: Senate irons out the details of our economy for decades. [Rollcall Vote No. 250 Ex.] comprehensive tax reform plan to get Let’s face it, too many of American YEAS—79 the American economy back on track, roads today are axle-breaking insults Alexander Crapo Johnson I want to draw attention today to what to the 21st century. They are holding Baldwin Cruz Kaine I believe is one of the greatest obsta- our economy back. Barrasso Daines Kennedy Bennet Donnelly King cles in our path as we pursue 3-percent Let me be clear. We are talking Blunt Durbin Klobuchar annual growth. That obstacle I am re- about hundreds of billions of dollars Boozman Enzi Lankford ferring to is our aging national infra- flowing into infrastructure if we just Brown Ernst Lee structure: our roads, our bridges, our make good use of those repatriated dol- Burr Fischer Manchin Cantwell Flake McCain airports, our water systems, our sew- lars. For example, just in my State of Capito Franken McCaskill age systems, and our waterways that Louisiana, this could mean building a Cardin Gardner McConnell desperately need dredging, especially new bridge through Lake Charles. It Carper Graham Moran Casey Grassley Murkowski in my State. could mean widening the interstate in Cassidy Hassan Murray If our tax plan is going to be pro- Baton Rouge. It could mean closing the Cochran Hatch Nelson growth, then we need to take advan- gaps in I–49 between Lafayette and Collins Heitkamp Paul tage of this once-in-a-generation Shreveport and New Orleans. We have Coons Heller Perdue Corker Hoeven Peters chance to use Federal revenues to in- neglected our highways and bridges for Cornyn Inhofe Portman vest meaningfully in our economy. far too long, and this is our chance to Cotton Isakson Reed

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.005 S25OCPT1 S6782 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 Risch Shaheen Toomey of public service as a State and Federal May 8, and it is now the end of October Roberts Shelby Udall prosecutor. He graduated in 1992 from when we can finally get him to the Rounds Strange Warner Rubio Sullivan Wicker the University of Oklahoma College of floor to be able to move him. Sasse Tester Young Law, where he began his legal career as This delay tactic, this stalling tactic Schumer Thune a legal intern for the district attor- that is out there, this resist movement Scott Tillis ney’s office of district 21, serving in to try to prevent the President of the NAYS—18 Cleveland, Garvin, and McClain Coun- United States from getting his staff in Blumenthal Harris Schatz ties. every agency and to prevent judges Booker Hirono Stabenow After graduating and passing the bar, from being able to actually go on the Cortez Masto Markey Van Hollen Duckworth Merkley Warren he became an assistant district attor- bench is delaying good people who are Feinstein Murphy Whitehouse ney for Cleveland County, where he not controversial to be able do the job Gillibrand Sanders Wyden prosecuted a variety of crimes and that is needed in each district. He is an NOT VOTING—3 death penalty cases. In 1994, he became individual who passed 79 to 18 on a clo- Heinrich Leahy Menendez the multicounty drug task force coor- ture vote, and I am confident we will The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this dinator, initiating and directing the not consume the next 30 hours of de- vote, the yeas are 79, the nays are 18. district’s first wire-interception drug bate about him. The hours will now ex- The motion is agreed to. investigation and coordinating Federal pire as we sit in silence on the Senate The Senator from Oklahoma. and local resources, culminating in the floor, waiting for us to be able to have Mr. LANKFORD. Mr. President, I rise successful prosecution of a significant a final vote—just delays. to speak to the Senate about the nomi- multicounty methamphetamine dis- I have made a proposal to my col- nee that is currently in front of this tribution organization. leagues. It is not a radical proposal. body and on whom we should vote in The Association of Oklahoma Nar- Quite frankly, it was a proposal in 2013, the next few hours. We just finished a cotics Enforcers awarded him the Pros- first proposed by a Senator named cloture vote to actually start 30 hours ecutor of the Year award in 1993. In Harry Reid: to be able to move the of debate. In the past, we wouldn’t 1992, he became the first assistant dis- nominations time period from 30 hours have had 30 hours of debate for a district attorney for district 21 and served of just wasted time on the Senate floor trict court nominee, especially a dis- in a dual prosecutorial and administra- to 2 hours—2 hours for district court, 2 trict court nominee like this. This tive role. hours for the Deputy Assistant Sec- would have been something that would In 2002, he joined the U.S. attorney’s retary of whatever agency it may be, have been done by consent. We would office in the Western District of Okla- having 2 hours of debate. These are for have had a vote on this individual, homa, where we are pushing him to be individuals who have already gone rather than burning up 30 hours of time a judge now, as an assistant U.S. attor- through committee, already gone in debate on a single individual who ney, prosecuting violent crimes, gangs, through extensive vetting, already just passed a cloture vote 79 to 18. This and domestic terrorism. moved to the floor, and who most cer- is not a controversial nominee. In 2004, he became the deputy crimi- tainly will pass because it is a simple Let me introduce you to Scott Palk. nal chief of the U.S. attorney’s office majority to be able to move these indi- Scott Palk was actually reported out and served in the additional roles of viduals based on the change of rules of the Judiciary Committee on June 15 violent crime, national security coordi- that at that time Senator Reid led. of this year. He was nominated by nator, anti-terrorism, advisory council Let’s also do the same rule on time. President Trump on May 8. He has been coordinator, and crisis management co- Instead of 30 hours of wasted time on pending since June 15 to get a vote on ordinator. the floor when we could do other things this floor because of the ongoing delays That same year, in 2004, the Okla- for the American people, let’s go back for each nominee as we go through the homa Gang Investigators Association to the 2-hour agreement that we had in process. awarded him the Prosecutor of the the past. It was a simple rule of 2 hours Why do I say Scott Palk is not a con- Year award. The Executive Office for for individuals like for district courts troversial nominee? It is not just the U.S. Attorneys awarded him the Direc- and other individuals and agencies, 8 fact that he passed the cloture vote 79 tor’s Award for Superior Performance. hours for higher tier individuals, who to 18. Scott Palk, if you remember his In 2005, the Drug Enforcement Ad- may be for a circuit court and such, name in this body, was also a nominee ministration awarded him the Certifi- and 30 hours for Cabinet officials. of President Obama for the U.S. Dis- cate of Appreciation for Outstanding I don’t think that is an unreasonable trict Court for the Western District of Contribution in the Field of Drug Law request to make. It is a rule that we Oklahoma. He is now a nominee of Enforcement. have done in the past, and it is a rule President Trump for the U.S. District In his most recent role at the U.S. at- that we need to go back to. The Amer- Court for the Western District of Okla- torney’s office, he supervised adminis- ican people are frustrated with the homa. trative staff and assistant U.S. attor- block in timing on moving people, es- There may be five things total that neys, handling a criminal caseload pri- pecially people with wide bipartisan President Obama and President Trump marily consisting of national security support. No one understands why some- agree on. Scott Palk is one of those and organized crimes and coordinating one who President Obama nominated five. This is not a controversial nomi- efforts with the FBI Joint Terrorism and President Trump nominated has to nee, and he will be a great judge for us. Task Force, the FBI foreign counter- take up 30 hours of time on the floor on He will also be a great judge in Western intelligence squad, and the National debate when no one will really debate Oklahoma. Security Division of the Department of him and it is certain what the outcome He currently serves as the assistant Justice. of these people will be. dean for students and the assistant His work in national security mat- The American people are expecting general counsel at the University of ters included both traditional criminal us to debate and to engage on issues. I Oklahoma College of Law in Norman, investigations, as well as investiga- recommend again to this body: Let’s go OK, a position he has held since 2011. tions utilizing provisions of the For- back to the Harry Reid rule—2 hours of He has the strong support of the presi- eign Intelligence Surveillance Act. debate for individuals like this in dis- dent of the University of Oklahoma, In 2011, the FBI awarded him the Di- trict courts, 8 hours of debate for high- who happens to be former Senator rector’s Certificate of Appreciation for er tiered courts, and 30 hours of debate David Boren, a Democratic Senator Assistance to the Joint Terrorism Task for Cabinet officials and the Supreme from this body, who is now leading the Force. Court. We can do that again. We have University of Oklahoma and has done Scott Palk is eminently qualified for done that in the past, and I recommend that with great excellence for the past this task. He shouldn’t be a controver- that we move back to that, not just for two decades. He is also strongly behind sial nominee, and he should already be a single congressional body but as a this nominee as well. a judge. We are missing three judges in change in the rules of the Senate, so Scott Palk joined the University of the Western District of Oklahoma. that, permanently, we are able to be Oklahoma College of Law after 19 years President Trump nominated him on more functional again. A body that is

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.001 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6783 dysfunctional can be fixed by its own do want to focus on some really impor- through the Senate, get it signed into Members, moving us to a functional set tant points. law, and then continue the bipartisan of rules. That is what I hope we would First of all, this bill would restore discussion on healthcare in the coun- achieve in the days ahead. the out-of-pocket cost reduction pay- try. I look forward to voting for Scott ments that President Trump has an- I will also take some time to talk Palk, whenever we finish with a 30- nounced he will be ending for this year about another pressing healthcare hour clock of time—of wasted time—to as well as for 2018 and 2019. This means challenge, and that is the immediate be able to move on a nominee and to that some serious sabotage—something need to extend Federal funding for the see wide bipartisan support again for a that experts say would raise premiums historically bipartisan, expired pri- good nominee. Scott is going to do a by double digits for millions of fami- mary care cliff programs, like the great job on the bench. We need him lies—would be off the table. Community Health Center Fund, the there to be able to get started. Second, this bill would make signifi- National Health Service Corps, and, of I yield back. cant investments when it comes to course, the Children’s Health Insurance The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- healthcare outreach and enrollment to Program, or CHIP. ator from Washington. make sure that families know about It has now been almost 25 days since Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I ask their insurance options. the Federal funding of these primary unanimous consent to speak as in Third, this bill makes some changes care cliff programs and CHIP were al- morning business. to give our States more flexibility lowed to expire by the Republican ma- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without when it comes to developing plans and jority, and in that time, I have heard objection, it is so ordered. offering options while maintaining es- from thousands of people in my State HEALTHCARE sential health benefits, like maternity and nationwide who are urging Con- Mrs. MURRAY. Mr. President, I come care and protecting people with pre- gress to act. Each day that passes is a to the floor today to talk about what existing conditions or protecting the day that we are failing to meet our my bipartisan healthcare bill with elderly—and all of this while making commitment to these families and put- Chairman ALEXANDER means for the sure that costs go down for families ting the health and well-being of near- people we are all here to serve, what it and preventing insurers from ly 9 million children, including more means for patients and families in my doubledipping and padding their profits than 60,000 children in my home State home State of Washington and across with both cost reduction payments and of Washington and the 25 million pa- the country who are worried about higher premiums. tients who, at great harm and great being able to afford the healthcare Put simply, this bill is an important risk, get care from the community they need, and what it means for step in the right direction of pre- health centers. States and communities and hospitals venting premium increases, stabilizing In Washington State, as in so many that are administering and providing healthcare, and pushing back against other States, notices to families about care. President Trump’s recent actions. gaps in their children’s healthcare are Negotiations of this magnitude are This bill reflects the input of pa- about to go out as soon as December 1, always tough. There are some things tients, Governors, State commis- and in my State, we will run out of you agree on, and sometimes there is sioners, experts, and advocates, and it Federal funds for CHIP in November. Let me be clear. Parents in my home common ground that emerges early, has strong support from a majority State and across the country should but there is no question that you also here in the Senate. So far, 24 Sen- not be up at night, worrying about find areas of strong disagreement. You ators—12 Democrats and 12 Repub- their children’s healthcare because have to work your way to each answer licans—have cosponsored this bill. I Congress cannot get the job done. That step by step. know there are a lot of others who is so unacceptable. One issue that Chairman ALEXANDER agree that we need to act and that we There is a bipartisan deal in the Sen- and I agreed on from the very start of must do so in our working together ate right now that was negotiated be- our negotiations, where we worked our under regular order, as with our bill, tween the chairman and ranking mem- hardest, and what we had the most dis- rather than doubling down on partisan- ber of the Finance Committee that cussions on was the goal of putting pa- ship and dysfunction. would provide certainty for this vital tients and families first and that it I am focused on moving our bill for- program. I understand that extreme would be families who would benefit as ward as quickly as possible, and I cer- House Republicans have chosen, in- much as possible from our efforts to re- tainly hope that the majority leader stead, to take an irresponsible path in store stability to our markets. That will listen to the Members on both their trying to ram through a partisan was the crux of our debate. It was our sides of the aisle who also want this bill that will jeopardize the efforts in guiding star. bill to be brought up for a vote without the Senate and in the House to come to I am very proud to say that our bi- delay. an agreement as soon as possible. partisan bill does just that. Here is Let me be clear. As this bill moves To be clear, this delay has not been what is at stake. Here is what we forward, I am certainly open to without serious consequences, but we know. Patients and families across the changes that expand access to quality can still act. It is up to Republican country are looking ahead to next care, put families ahead of insurers, leaders now to reverse course, come to year. They are rightly worried about and maintain those core patient pro- the table, and join with Democrats to their healthcare—premiums, benefits, tections that I have been clear all get this done. It should not have to be and coverage—and they are realizing along have to be protected. I am cer- said, but there should not be any place that they are about to pay the price for tainly not interested in changing our for partisanship or politics when it the uncertainty and partisanship we bipartisan agreement to move comes to protecting the children and have seen on healthcare over the last 9 healthcare in the wrong direction. families we represent. I hope that we Chairman ALEXANDER and I have a months. get this done and get it done quickly, Like all of my colleagues, I have lis- record of seeing tough legislation and I hope that all of our Members will tened and I have talked with many of through to the end together, whether move forward on this. these families in my home State, at that is K–12 education, FDA user fees, I yield the floor. hospitals, schools, roundtables, and in mental health reform, or opioid use I suggest the absence of a quorum. meetings with patients, doctors, pro- disorders, which is why I am confident The PRESIDING OFFICER. The viders, and veterans. They have all that we can do the same with this sta- clerk will call the roll. made it very clear that enough is bilization bill. The legislative clerk proceeded to enough with playing politics with peo- We have negotiated a strong agree- call the roll. ple’s healthcare. ment that has the support of 60 Sen- Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I Here is how our bipartisan bill would ators, and the support is growing. The ask unanimous consent that the order protect those families and restore cer- President has also expressed his sup- for the quorum call be rescinded. tainty to the markets. I will not go port for our effort, so I see no reason The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without into all of the details, of course, but I why we should not move this bill objection, it is so ordered.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.011 S25OCPT1 S6784 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, I spending by $3.8 billion. Not only does dividual markets. The 350,000 Ten- see the Senator from New Hampshire it not cost anything, but it saves the nesseans in individual markets in Ten- on the floor. I ask through the Pre- taxpayers money. nessee would be terrified by the pros- siding Officer if she is about to speak They then wrote a second thing, and pect of not being able to buy any insur- or if I may speak after her. What I this is quoting the Congressional Budg- ance or by the skyrocketing premiums. would like to do is to give a brief re- et Office: ‘‘CBO and JCT expect that in- I thank Senator CORNYN and the Sen- port on the Congressional Budget Of- surers in almost all areas of the coun- ator from New Hampshire, Mrs. SHA- fice’s report of the Alexander-Murray try would be required to issue some HEEN, for allowing me to interrupt and proposal, of which the Senator from form of rebate to individuals and the make a brief statement. New Hampshire is a cosponsor. I would federal government.’’ Let me go to the bottom line once like to do that either before or after Let me say that again. This is the more. The President has said repeat- she speaks. Either way would be fine. CBO talking, the nonpartisan Congres- edly, Senator MURRAY has said repeat- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- sional Budget Office, with respect to edly, and I have said repeatedly that ator from New Hampshire. the Alexander-Murray proposal that the Alexander-Murray amendment, the Mrs. SHAHEEN. Mr. President, my has been cosponsored by a total of 24 short-term bipartisan plan to reduce understanding is that Senator CORNYN Senators—12 Republicans, 12 Demo- premiums and avoid chaos, must not was about to come to the floor, but I crats: ‘‘CBO and JCT expect that insur- bail out insurance companies. We have would be happy to have the Senator ers in almost all areas of the country written language to make sure it does give the CBO report on this legislation, would be required to issue some form of not, and now the Congressional Budget which I very enthusiastically support. rebate to individuals and the federal Office says it does not. It does not bail The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- government.’’ out insurance companies. It does ben- ator from Tennessee. The Congressional Budget Office has efit consumers. It does benefit tax- Mr. ALEXANDER. Mr. President, in found that our proposal benefits taxpayers to the tune of $3.8 billion. That respecting Senator CORNYN’s preroga- payers and consumers, not insurance is very important information. tive, I will stop when he comes to the companies. The specific benefit to the I am encouraged by the President’s floor. taxpayers is $3.8 billion. The exact ben- comment yesterday. He thanked me at I believe that Senator MURRAY has efit to consumers has not been deter- the luncheon for working in a bipar- come to the floor and has reported that mined yet because that will be done tisan way on this. I am encouraged the Congressional Budget Office has State by State. Under our proposal, that Senator HATCH and KEVIN BRADY just finished an evaluation of the Alex- ander-Murray proposal to the U.S. Sen- every State would come up with a plan have introduced a bill recognizing the ate that would be for the purpose of re- to say, in 2018, because of the cost- importance of continuous cost sharing. ducing premiums and avoiding chaos in sharing payments, premium rates need The ball is in the hands of the White the individual insurance markets dur- to be lower than they are already set. House right now. They have our rec- ing the years 2018 and 2019. Then, in that State, they would be, and ommendations. They made some sug- The Senator from New Hampshire is as a result, there would be rebates to gestions. That is the normal legislative a strong sponsor of that legislation. It individuals. process. is unusual, in fact, that it has 12 Re- The CBO also found that there is a I am hopeful that something that has publican Senators and 12 Democratic provision in the law for a catastrophic this kind of analysis; that it doesn’t Senators. Not many pieces of legisla- plan. That is a new insurance plan for bail out insurance companies, that tion come to the floor with that sup- people over the age of 29 that would avoids a big increase to the Federal port. The reason we accelerated work have lower premiums and higher debt, that makes certain that people on it was that President Trump called deductibles, but it would allow people will be able to buy insurance for the me and asked me to work with Senator to afford an insurance policy so that a next couple of years, that begins to MURRAY to try to develop such a pro- medical catastrophe would not turn lower premiums, that almost all Demo- posal. So now it is being considered by into a financial catastrophe. crats want and that Republicans in the the President, by the House of Rep- ‘‘CBO estimates that making cata- House have all voted for once this year resentatives, and by other Members of strophic plans part of the single risk when they voted for their repeal-and- this body. pool would slightly lower premiums for replace bill—something like that An important piece of information, other nongroup plans, because the peo- sounds like something that might be- as Senator MURRAY has said, is what ple who enroll in catastrophic plans come law before the end of the year, the Congressional Budget Office writes tend to be healthier, on average, than and I believe the sooner the better. about the impact of our proposal on other nongroup market enrollees.’’ I thank the Presiding Officer, Sen- the Federal taxpayers and on the con- A major objective, I think, of all of ators CORNYN and SHAHEEN. sumers across the country. us is to attract more young, healthy I yield the floor. President Trump has been very clear people into the pool as a way of low- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- on one thing he wants, which is that we ering rates for everybody. ator from New Hampshire. do not bail out insurance companies if, ‘‘As a result of the slightly lower es- Mrs. SHAHEEN. Mr. President, I am in 2018, we pay cost-sharing payment timated premiums, CBO and JCT ex- delighted to follow Senator ALEXANDER reductions, which are payments to pay pect that federal costs for subsidies for and was very pleased to hear the news for deductibles and copays for low-in- insurance purchased through a market- from the CBO that this Alexander-Mur- come Americans. place established under the ACA would ray proposal not only doesn’t bail out I 100 percent agree with President decline by about $1.1 billion over the insurance companies, as we all agree Trump on that, and Senator MURRAY 2019–2027 period.’’ we should not do—we want to make 100 percent agrees with President We have already said what the Con- sure savings go to consumers—but it Trump on that. We have language in gressional Budget Office has reported also will save taxpayers $3.8 billion. our proposal to make sure that benefits earlier; that if we don’t pass something This is a bipartisan agreement. I ap- go to consumers and to taxpayers and like the Alexander-Murray proposal, plaud the work of Senator ALEXANDER not to insurance companies. We asked this is what happens: If the cost-shar- and Senator PATTY MURRAY to craft the Congressional Budget Office to re- ing payments are not paid, premiums this bipartisan agreement to address view that, and this is what it wrote: in 2018 will go up an average 20 percent. the challenges we have in the short ‘‘On net, CBO and the staff of the Joint They are already up. Our proposal will term with healthcare. Senators ALEX- Committee on Taxation (JCT) estimate take them down. The Federal debt will ANDER and MURRAY have given us a that implementing the legislation increase by $194 billion over 10 years, if template for bipartisan negotiations would reduce the deficit by $3.8 billion we don’t pass our proposal, due to the not just on healthcare but on other over the 2018–2027 period relative to extra cost of subsidies to pay higher critical matters that are going to come CBO’s baseline.’’ premiums, and up to 16 million Ameri- before this Senate—tax reform, reau- In other words, the Alexander-Mur- cans may live in counties where they thorizing community health centers ray proposal would reduce Federal are not able to buy any insurance in in- and the Children’s Health Insurance

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.013 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6785 Program, reaching an agreement on they were also in the Senate bill ear- dent’s comments yesterday because we the 2018 budget. These are all major lier this year. need to restore certainty and stability issues facing this country and issues In recent months, I have heard from to the marketplaces. Instead of par- we should be working on in a bipar- hundreds of people across New Hamp- tisan efforts to undermine the law and tisan way. The Senate is at its best shire about the enormous difference take health insurance away from peo- when we observe regular order and we healthcare reform has made in their ple, we should embrace the spirit of the follow the committee process, when we lives. We are a small State; we have Alexander-Murray agreement. Let’s work across the aisle and make prin- just about 1.3 million people. Nearly work together in a good-faith, bipar- cipled compromises to get things done 94,000 Granite Staters have gotten indi- tisan effort to build a healthcare sys- for the American people. I believe that vidual healthcare coverage through the tem that leaves no American behind. is exactly what this health insurance marketplaces. Nearly 50,000 have got- Thank you. bill does. ten coverage thanks to the Medicaid I yield the floor. In a Senate that is nearly equally di- expansion program in New Hampshire. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- vided between Republicans and Demo- That has been a bipartisan effort, with jority whip. crats, this is the only productive way a Republican legislature and a Demo- SAFER ACT forward for us to address the chal- cratic Governor, to get that program in Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I know lenges that face this country. Too place, and it continues to enjoy the people watching and perhaps reading often we have seen people use bipar- support of the Republican legislature the newspaper, watching cable TV, and tisan negotiations as a last resort, but and the Republican Governor. listening to talk radio think nothing bipartisanship should be the Senate’s Because of the Affordable Care Act’s ever happens here in Washington, DC, first resort, not the last resort. It increased access to care, we also have and they would be wrong. Certainly, we should be the foundation of our work in 11,000 Granite Staters who have sub- can always do better, and I am dis- this body. This is how the great major- stance use disorders and who have been appointed we haven’t been more suc- ity of Americans want us to conduct able to get treatment for the first cessful, but there are some measures the Senate’s business. time. New Hampshire has the second we can make in the right direction in When I travel around New Hamp- highest rate of overdose deaths from important pieces of legislation that shire, this is the consistent comment I the heroin and opioid epidemic. Having make a very profound difference in hear everywhere I go: Why can’t you treatment available through the ex- people’s lives. all work together to get things done panded Medicaid Program has made a Today I want to talk about a problem for this country? This is especially true difference for thousands of people in that, thanks to a bill passed by the on matters like healthcare and tax re- New Hampshire and their families. Senate on Monday, we are helping to form, which affect families throughout Hundreds of thousands of Granite solve. This has to do with the untested rape kit backlog in our country. the country. Staters with preexisting conditions no Years ago, thanks to a courageous I am encouraged that the Alexander- longer face discrimination resulting in woman named Debbie Smith, I became Murray bill has earned strong bipar- denial or sky-high premiums. These are a lot better informed about the nature tisan support and, as Senator ALEX- important achievements, and this leg- of this problem: rape kits, the forensic ANDER said, has 24 original cosponsors. islation will allow us to continue down evidence that is taken in sexual assault That number is equally divided be- that road to make sure people have cases but which remained in evidence tween Republicans and Democrats. healthcare coverage they can afford. lockers in police stations untested or This is a balanced agreement that has For people across New Hampshire was sent to laboratories and never been negotiated by both parties over and across this country, healthcare processed. At one point, it was esti- many months, and I think it is our best coverage is often a matter of life or mated that there were as many as bet for stabilizing marketplaces in the death. It is about being able to take a 400,000 untested rape kits in our coun- short run so we can continue to work sick family member to a doctor. It is try. on long-term issues around healthcare. about knowing that a serious illness As the Presiding Officer knows, this I am especially pleased this agree- will not leave a mountain of debt. is powerful evidence because of DNA ment provides for the continuation of I am very pleased to be able to join in testing. We can literally almost say cost-sharing reduction payments for 2 the bipartisan efforts led by Senators with certainty whether there is a years. These payments are necessary to ALEXANDER and MURRAY to strengthen match between the DNA of a suspect keep premiums, deductibles, and co- the parts of the healthcare law that are and that in a rape kit. This forensic payments affordable for working peo- working and to fix what is not work- evidence is collected following a sexual ple. Without these payments, the cost ing. The other provisions in this legis- assault. Similarly, we can decide and of coverage will skyrocket, insurers lation will allow States more flexi- determine whether there is no match will leave the marketplaces, and mil- bility through the 1332 waiver process. whatsoever and, frankly, exclude some- lions of people will lose their The Alexander-Murray agreement ex- body who is a potential suspect from healthcare coverage. I have been work- pedites waiver approval so States can being the guilty party by using this ing on this issue of cost-saving reduc- implement smart fixes to stabilize same powerful forensic evidence. tion payments since earlier this year, their marketplaces, for instance, by es- It is also important not just to solve when I introduced a bill that would tablishing a State-based reinsurance the crime at hand but also to get sex- permanently appropriate funds for the program. The agreement also includes ual predators off the streets because we CSRs. a restoration of funding for open en- know this type of offender is likely to As the CBO said, the language in the rollment outreach in educational ac- strike time and time and time again. Alexander-Murray bill ensures that tivities, and it protects four protec- The experts tell us that when opportu- these CSRs are not a bailout to insur- tions related to insurance afford- nities don’t provide themselves for sex- ance companies, but they are a way to ability, coverage, and plan comprehen- ual offenders to go after adults, fre- help people with the cost of insurance. siveness. All of these changes are posi- quently they will even go after chil- They are orderly payments that are tive steps forward, steps that I hope dren. So this is very important evi- built into the law that will go directly will set us on a bipartisan path, dence. to keeping premiums, copays, and strengthening elements of the Afford- As we know, there is typically a stat- deductibles affordable for lower income able Care Act that are working well ute of limitations that after a period of Americans. Both Democrats and Re- and fixing elements that need to be time a case cannot be prosecuted, but publicans recognize that these pay- changed. it is really important, as I mentioned, ments are an orderly, necessary sub- I am hopeful the Alexander-Murray to continue to test as many rape kits sidy that keeps down the cost of health agreement can gain the bipartisan sup- as we possibly can to get serial offend- coverage for everyday Americans. As port it needs to pass in Congress, that ers off the streets and to determine Senator ALEXANDER said, we saw that it can gain the President’s signature, whether somebody has been charged or these payments were in the bill the and I am encouraged by Senator ALEX- suspected of a crime and is in fact in- House voted for around healthcare, and ANDER’s comments about the Presi- nocent.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.014 S25OCPT1 S6786 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 Thanks to courageous people like often we find the case, there is not Next, it allows inmates who success- Debbie Smith, for whom we have much reporting on it, much attention fully complete recidivism-reduction named the Debbie Smith Act, as well paid, but it is worth noting here on the programs to earn credit toward time in as great bipartisan cooperation in the Senate floor that bipartisan progress prerelease custody, while eliminating Senate, we have provided funding for on important legislation that helps eligibility for inmates convicted of se- the testing of rape kits at the State people’s lives become better is being rious crimes. and local level, which has been supple- done here in the Senate. Additionally, the bill requires the mented by the Texas Legislature and CORRECTIONS ACT Department of Justice to implement other State legislatures. Mr. President, I also want to bring up inmate reentry pilot projects across In Houston a few years ago, our another important piece of legislation the country and to study their effects mayor felt so strongly about this that I reintroduced this last week, the Cor- so that we can gain a better under- they took this on as a citywide project, rections Oversight, Recidivism Reduc- standing of what works and what with incredible results. They found a tion, and Eliminating Cost to Tax- doesn’t work when it comes to offend- number of hits of previously unsolved payers in Our National System Act. ers’ reintegration into society. crimes, and they were able to bring Let me call it the CORRECTIONS Act Finally, the CORRECTIONS Act cre- peace of mind to a lot of people who for short because that is a mouthful. I ates a national commission to review had been living under a cloud of un- am grateful to my Democratic cospon- every aspect of our criminal justice solved crime when they processed these sor, the junior Senator from Rhode Is- system. The last review of this type unprocessed rape kits. land, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, for joining me was done in 1965. And while I think Nationally, the problem is still big, on what is, like the SAFER Act, sig- Congress—certainly this is within our with as many as 175,000 rape kits that nificant bipartisan legislation. wheelhouse, but we probably don’t still haven’t been analyzed, and this is My home State of Texas has a well- have the bandwidth to do this, which is something we need to continue to at- deserved reputation for being tough on why this national commission is so im- tack. It is down from 400,000 at one crime, but we have also learned over portant to be able to report back to point, was the estimate, down to time that it is important to be smart Congress and make recommendations 175,000, but that is still unacceptable. on crime too. We successfully imple- to us. Victims of sexual assault, scarred by mented statewide criminal justice re- We know one thing for sure: that painful memories and physical trauma, forms that help low-risk offenders be- when people serve their sentence and can’t afford to wait for funding that is come productive members of society they are released from prison, they are easier to come by. They need their sto- once they reenter civil society from going to reenter society. Why wouldn’t ries to be heard, the evidence to be prison, and the State is focused on the we want to make sure those who are tested, and the results expedited. Fed- important role rehabilitation can play. willing to deal with their addiction, to eral, State, and local officials owe I am not naive enough to think that learn a skill, to get a GED, and to oth- them those things. If we dawdle, those every person who is imprisoned behind erwise improve their lives—why cases go cold, and they are the ones bars, having been convicted of a crimi- wouldn’t we want to make sure they who bear the scars and the pain of nal offense, is going to take advantage are better prepared when they reenter these unresolved crimes. of the opportunity to right their path civil society? Otherwise, they are left That is why the Sexual Assault Fo- and to get on with their life, but some with this turnstile of crime where they rensic Evidence Reporting Act, called will, and given the proper assessments go from prison, to the community, to the SAFER Act, is so important. That and incentives, we have found that this committing another crime, to another is the bill I mentioned a moment ago sort of approach works. conviction, and back to prison again. that we passed in the Senate on Mon- The CORRECTIONS Act that Senator Our focus should be on helping indi- day. It reauthorizes a program created WHITEHOUSE and I have introduced viduals find a productive path as con- in 2013 that has helped law enforcement builds off of the State models that have tributing members of society, and that reduce the national rape kit backlog. I worked in Rhode Island, Georgia, involves making sure returning to pris- thank my friend and colleague, Rep- Texas, Louisiana, and elsewhere, and it on doesn’t happen because there is no resentative TED POE over in the House, requires the Bureau of Prisons to pro- alternative. By implementing job for sponsoring the House version. vide programs that partner with faith- training, drug rehabilitation, and men- The original legislation increased the based and community-based organiza- tal health treatment, we can focus and amount of funds spent on untested kits tions to better prepare these men and save taxpayer dollars, lower crime and by 35 percent and allowed 5 to 7 percent women to become law-abiding and ac- incarceration rates, decrease recidi- of them to be used on audits of existing tive members of society. I hope the vism, and most importantly, we can law enforcement programs. These au- Senate can follow Texas’s lead and im- help people change their own lives for dits, in turn, uncovered tens of thou- plement these commonsense, bipar- the better. sands of untested kits across the coun- tisan reforms. Joining State and local officials at try, each with evidence that could be This bill achieves a number of objec- the forefront of this are groups like used to bring an offender to justice. tives, which I will mention briefly. Prison Fellowship and the Texas Public The new bill passed by the Senate this First, it requires the Department of Policy Foundation, which create pro- week goes further. It ensures that pedi- Justice to develop risk-assessment grams for inmates, such as the Prison atric forensic nurses are available for tools to evaluate the recidivism poten- Entrepreneurship Program—or PEP for training so that, once they complete it, tial of all eligible offenders. short—which teaches prisoners how to they are better equipped to respond Second, it refocuses resources on start and manage their own businesses promptly and appropriately to children those offenders most likely to commit when they begin life on the outside. suffering from abuse. future crimes and allows lower risk in- You would be amazed by individuals Finally, the bill extends the sunset mates to serve their sentences under who started their own businesses provision of the SAFER Program, less restrictive conditions, thus reduc- through the PEP program and turned which will ensure the longevity of a ing prison costs, so the taxpayer wins their lives around in the process program with a proven history of suc- too. through the mentorship and fellowship cess. Third, the bill expands program- that these programs provide. I am grateful to have a wide range of ming—such as substance abuse treat- I hope we can learn from the labora- bipartisan support, including the sen- ment and vocational training—that has tories of democracy, known as the ior Senator from Minnesota, as well as been proven to reduce recidivism. States, where we implemented success- the senior Senators from Nevada and Fourth, it requires the Bureau of ful criminal justice reform programs— Colorado, who are original cosponsors. Prisons to foster partnerships with this time, in our prison system—where This is a good example of legislation faith-based and nonprofit and commu- we will all benefit. Taxpayers benefit that is bipartisan and that makes nity-based organizations in order to de- because we will have to incarcerate progress toward solving a very real liver a broad spectrum of programming fewer people because they won’t con- problem in our country. But, as so to prisoners. tinue this cycle of release, offend, and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.015 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6787 reincarceration—at least a certain per- We are into the first year of this new Doubling the standard deduction centage of them won’t. We can help administration. We are looking at 3 helps a lot when people look at the people whose lives are in a tailspin be- percent annual growth after 8 years in $12,000 deduction they have now. For a cause of drug or alcohol addiction or which growth didn’t exceed 2 percent. couple, as they look at that deduction who feel as though they are on a dead- Anytime you begin to talk like an and realize that deduction, that stand- end street because they simply don’t economist, people begin to wonder: ard deduction, has doubled, suddenly, if have the job skills or the education in Well, what does that have to do with you are a couple filing jointly, you are order to compete in the economy. me? Let me just say that for taxpayers not paying any taxes on the first I hope we can follow the lead of suc- generally, for working families gen- $24,000 you earn. If you are a single in- cessful experiments in our States, such erally, the more growth you have, one, dividual, you are not paying any taxes as Texas, and implement these com- the more revenue that comes in that on the first $12,000 you earn. Keeping monsense, bipartisan reforms in our takes care of problems like the deficit. enough of the family-benefiting exemp- Federal prison system. The way you take care of those prob- tions helps make the family do what Mr. President, let me say in conclu- lems—the best way—is to grow the the family would like to do. What if sion that I know the administration is economy. Two, people are much more they would like to give to their church very interested in engaging on criminal focused on keeping the workforce they and charity? There is no discussion justice reform. Last year, we worked have, getting the best of the workforce saying we wouldn’t keep the standard on a sentencing and prison reform bill that is coming on board as their work- charitable deduction as a deduction. that unfortunately seems to not be force moves on for retirement or relo- There is no discussion that we wouldn’t going anywhere. While the prison re- cates or does other things. keep home mortgage as a deduction so form component of it seems to have a Three percent economic growth is we are encouraging homeownership or consensus of support here in the Con- not good enough. The post-World War looking at how to make the child tax gress and I think could pass and be II average—that is more than seven credit bigger rather than smaller. signed into law, the sentencing reform decades now of average—is, I think, al- Many of the early analyses of what piece is a little more controversial and most 31⁄2 percent. There are very few this Tax Code would do say that for a I know divides even the Republican economic problems in our country that family of four, they would pay more conference, and I am not sure what it wouldn’t be made substantially better, than they are paying now up to certain does with the Democratic conference. including our own Federal deficit, if we income level. Generally, that will turn But I believe we ought to start on a see growth exceed or even get to the 70- out not to be the case—certainly, at step-by-step basis, get what we can get year average. There is no reason to be- the middle-income levels and below if done, and get it to the President for his lieve that can’t happen. you factor in the child tax credit, signature, while providing these tools Yesterday, the President was talking which hasn’t been determined yet. to inmates who are incarcerated about the two ways to immediately re- Our tax-writing committee will be through the Bureau of Prisons, and lieve pressures on families. One is more looking at that child tax credit as an then keep working on the other parts take-home pay, and two is a better job important addition to the individual on which we perhaps have not yet been that also increases take-home pay. But exemptions because it costs money to able to build consensus. the first step we can achieve imme- raise kids. The Congress surely should I hope our colleagues will work with diately by the kind of tax relief we understand that, appreciate that, and us on this important piece of legisla- need. factor that into the deductions. Just tion as we work to reform our criminal There have been 8 years of stagnant like we are doubling the deduction for justice system in ways that make sense wages. Half of the families in the coun- individual earners, we also have to and that save taxpayer dollars. try are living paycheck to paycheck. look at what that child tax credit I yield the floor. Very few families can face an emer- should look like. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- gency that is even $500 without having Tax policies that benefit homeowner- ator from Missouri. to restructure what they are doing and ship, tax policies that encourage con- TAX REFORM how they are doing it. We can do a bet- tributing to charities and community Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, yesterday ter job at this. We need more jobs. We activities and church and synagogue in the middle of the day, the Presiding need higher wages. And the two prin- and mosque—your religious activities— Officer and I and the Senator from cipal goals of this tax bill should be to all would continue to be a part of this Texas and others had a chance to meet do exactly that—create more wages Tax Code. with the President and talk about tax now, more take-home pay now, and Also, when talking about sending relief. It seemed to me very clear that create an environment in which we are kids to school, one way to not have the President and those of us who are going to be more competitive. Simpli- student debt is to encourage families advocating tax cuts right now are on fying the Tax Code is one way to meet to have ways to better prepare for what the same wavelength, which is, let’s that first impact, having a tax code they, in most cases, would hope would have tax cuts for hard-working fami- that people understand better, that be a goal or an expenditure their fam- lies, and let’s do the other things we they think is fairer. ily would make. We can do things like need to do in the Tax Code to ensure A tax code where people think they expanding the Pell grants for poor fam- that those very same families have bet- are being treated fairly is much more ilies, but for families who don’t qualify ter jobs. likely to be complied with than a tax for that, we can do things that allow As I said on the floor of the Senate code where people see that somebody the deduction early on for putting last week, there are two ways to in- else who makes the same amount of money in a fund that prepares people crease take-home pay. One is to start money as they make is paying a lot to go to school. taking less out of the paychecks people less taxes than they are paying. The Keeping well-paying jobs at home are getting now, and another one is to American tax system is probably the and encouraging more jobs to come give them an even better paycheck in greatest voluntary compliance. Sure, here is also an important part of the the future. We need to look at both of there are laws that require people to goal. You can’t have the highest cor- those ways to increase the opportunity comply, but most people are never im- porate rate in the world and expect for working families and working indi- pacted by those laws. They know they that you are going to be as competitive viduals. could be, but the American people have as you would be with other countries. We are now into the eighth year of shown a willingness to pay their fair A corporate rate of 35 percent, in 1986, almost no economic growth. If there is share if they know that their fair share was fairly near the middle when that no economic growth, there is very lit- is, in fact, their fair share. A simpler rate was arrived at with President tle incentive for your job to be a better tax system, a more easily understood Reagan and others working on it the paying job than it was the previous tax system, a system that has fewer last time we did a tax rewrite, and year no matter what has happened to than the seven different tax brackets right in the middle is about where we your other costs, and we clearly see that people pay today are things we should be. However, now the situation that happening. can and should achieve. is we see that right in the middle is no

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.017 S25OCPT1 S6788 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 longer 35 percent; it is about 20 per- to 18. That is really strong bipartisan on TV or in the Gallery. Why are you cent. Ireland just revised its 15 percent support. It just happened about an hour doing this? Does it help the country? rate to 8 percent. Great Britain is re- ago on the Senate floor. Whether you are a Democrat or Repub- ducing their rate to a little less than 20 So what are we doing? Well, we are lican, it doesn’t help the country. That percent. They have been, I think, a lit- still going to be debating for 30 hours. is the whole point, but nobody wants to tle more than 20 percent. We need to be We are not really debating the nominee come down and explain their delay tac- sure the products we make here and because he is well qualified. That is tics. The press will not write about it the jobs that are created here—that what we are doing in the Senate, sup- because some of them like it, I think. there is a competitive ability to sell posedly. Anyone watching, you know Here is the truth. When we are spend- that same product anywhere in the we are not debating him because he is ing all this time all week on this judge world, with the advantage, obviously, very well qualified, but we are still who will get voted on—and he will pass of being made by our great workforce going to burn 30 hours. Why is this? because he is very well qualified. Sen- but also an advantage where our tax Well, this raises a much broader issue ator LANKFORD laid out his resume. He system doesn’t work us out of the mar- of the tactics that are happening on was previously nominated by President ketplace, doesn’t make us less com- the Senate floor right now. The minor- Obama. We are going to vote for him petitive. ity leader and his colleagues will not after this 30-hour period, and he will A territorial tax system will be one come down and explain what they are pass with a strong bipartisan vote. of the things we are going to hear up to. What is the challenge? What happens talked about a lot. For most of us, that I gave a speech on this a couple of to the other issues we need to address doesn’t seem to have any impact. We weeks ago, and I just asked: Come on in this country—in this body? We can’t earn our money here, we pay our taxes down. Let the American people under- get to them, if we wanted to turn to here, but we also want to be sure that stand why we are spending all this other issues to start moving them. if American companies sell products time on nominees who are very well My colleague from New Hampshire somewhere else and earn money there, qualified and have enormous bipartisan was just on the floor. She talked about that they can, should, and would bring support. Why are we being required to all the things we have to do. I agree that money back to the United States go an additional 30 hours? Those are with her 100 percent: tax reform, to reinvest it in the kinds of things the rules, but normally there would be healthcare, budget—we never do the that create jobs here. unanimous consent to move forward. budget here anymore—National De- I think this doesn’t have to be all What is happening now hasn’t been ex- fense Authorization Act, growing the that complicated. We need to under- plained, but it definitely hurts the economy, as my friend from Missouri stand what the core principles are. We American people, whether you are a talked about, infrastructure, immigra- need to get to those core principles. We Democrat or Republican. What is hap- tion, and the Dreamer issue. We have need to get this done this year so peo- pening now is, every single nominee so much to do, let alone getting Trump ple are planning, in the first months of from the Trump administration, administration officials confirmed and next year, on how to take advantage of whether Federal judge or Assistant judges confirmed. That is a big list, but a new, simpler, fairer, and more com- Secretary for Health and Human Serv- because we are spending 30 hours on a petitive Tax Code. This needs to be job ices, is being delayed. Here are the debate, which really isn’t a debate on one of this Congress for the next few numbers. Eight years ago, President the judge, and we can’t get consent weeks. We need to get that done so job Obama had about 66 percent of his from the other side to actually work on one for the country, beginning at the nominees confirmed at this period in these other issues, this is what we are end of this debate, is what we can do to the fall of his first term. People were doing. We are just burning time. create more and better jobs and create working through them. If you didn’t The minority leader will not come more take-home pay for hard-working like the nominee, you would just vote down and explain it. I don’t know if he families. against them, but you wouldn’t say we can explain it, but that is what we are I am joined by some of my colleagues are going to burn half the week of the doing. Again, if the shoe were on the who are going to talk about this same Senate to debate somebody who is not other foot, the press would be going topic, I hope, and others. We need to be even controversial. This judge, when crazy. Right now, they just let it hap- focused. I can tell, with the President’s we finally get through the 30 hours, is pen. My view is, it would be great if comments yesterday, he is focused on going to pass with 80 Senate votes, but one of my colleagues from the other this. We are focused on this. This is a we are burning through it anyway. side of the aisle would come down and job we need to get done. President Obama, 8 years ago, had 66 say: Here is why we are wasting all of I yield the floor. percent confirmed. The number for this time. Just let us know. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. President Trump 8 years later is 33 per- As Senator LANKFORD mentioned, ERNST). The Senator from Alaska. cent. Imagine our friends in the this judge was nominated by the Presi- Mr. SULLIVAN. Madam President, I media—the New York Times—if Repub- dent in May. Now we are going to wanted to reinforce and underscore licans were doing this to President spend most of the week ‘‘debating’’ some of the comments made by my col- Obama during his first few months in him, when that is not what is going on. league from Oklahoma, Senator office. There would be front-page sto- It is just a delay tactic. My view is, we LANKFORD, on what is happening in the ries every day. The Republican Party is should just say: OK. You want to play Senate right now. It is actually really trying to undermine the new Presi- ball like that? We will stay here 24/7 important for the American people to dent—delaying, delaying, delaying. and keep the Senate open 7 days a understand what is going on. Maybe we You don’t hear a peep from our na- week. Let’s get to work. Let’s stay would finally get the press, who sit up tional press. They don’t write about it. here until Christmas. See if the minor- there above your chair, Madam Presi- It is a problem because we have work ity leader and his team keep doing dent, to write about this topic. to do in this country. I have asked the that, keep delaying. I think we should Right now, we are debating a very minority leader to just come down and call their bluff. well-qualified district court judge tell the American people why you are Right now, the delay tactics—which nominee—a Federal district court doing this. We have had numerous nobody on the other side wants to ex- judge nominee from Oklahoma. Sen- judges, very noncontroversial, very bi- plain—in my view, are not defensible, ator LANKFORD was down here, and he partisan, where we essentially spent and they are not helping the country. obviously knows the nominee, Scott the whole week ‘‘debating’’ them. We Whether you are a Democrat or Repub- Palk. He is so qualified that the vote are not debating this judge, but we are lican, you want to seat the govern- for cloture to move forward on this going to spend 30 hours on him. ment. You want to get good people nominee—who, by the way, was nomi- Why are they doing that? And why working for the American people. nated by President Trump for a Fed- are my colleagues on the other side of Right now, that is not happening. eral district court position but was pre- the aisle agreeing to it? I asked them I just wish the other side would ei- viously nominated by President Obama to come on down and explain it to the ther explain it or stop doing it. Let’s with fairly bipartisan support—was 79 American people, the people watching get to work for this Nation.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.018 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6789 Thank you. Senator from Texas is here—and say: those meetings in my office before. At I yield the floor. What could we do to be more competi- the end of the day, every single one of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- tive with Texas? We looked at Iowa. those folks who wanted to pick apart ator from North Carolina. What could we do as a matter of tax one exception or an exemption have Mr. TILLIS. Madam President, I policy that would make us more com- come back into my office and said: You fully associate myself with the competitive with Iowa on, let’s say, agri- know what; you have protected us from ments just made by the Senator from culture? Those were our peer competi- ourselves, because if you had listened the great State of Alaska. We have to tors. As a State leader, I am looking at to us, you would have done far less get to work here. my peer competitors in their States. than you were capable of doing. TAX REFORM For our corporate tax policy, we look There is nobody who follows State Mr. President, I am here to talk at China, at Russia, at Europe, and we politics that would question what was about one of the most pressing issues look at our competitors and make it done in North Carolina. It has been an we have to deal with. Yesterday, we very clear that we are out of step. As extraordinary turnaround. Now it is had lunch where the President spoke Senator BLUNT said, years ago we time to do the same thing for this about why tax reform was so critical weren’t out of step, but we are today. great Nation. for healing the economy and really We are not competitive with people I hope that all of my colleagues having our Nation rise to its full capa- with whom we should be cleaning their would set aside the distractions, mute bilities in terms of economic perform- clock in terms of economic expansion. the voices of the special interests that ance and global competitiveness. You You only get that done if you lower the will want their special exemption or read the headlines. The headlines read corporate tax rate. If you actually get exception and fulfill the promise that like: Republicans are for the big guy, people who will invest that capital and we made to the American people. for the corporations, not for the little hire more people, provide more oppor- I yield the floor. guy. tunities for working families, and cre- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- You will hear them talk about poli- ate more demand for jobs so that wages ator from Texas. cies that will have us drowning in red go up, that is how you ultimately get ink. You will hear them talk about Mr. CRUZ. Madam President, I rise this economy moving to a point where today at a time of extraordinary oppor- unsustainable economic policies. I saw we create the resources to also ulti- all of those headlines before, about 6 tunity. The American people have en- mately pay down the debt. I still con- trusted us with something that, his- years ago, in the North Carolina state- sider that to be the single greatest house when we inherited a disaster for torically, is quite rare: a Republican threat to our national security. President, Republican control of every an economy. It was after the 2008 cri- Along the way, the reason I know our executive agency, and Republican ma- sis. We had a State that was drowning tax policy was about right where it jorities in both Houses of Congress. in red ink, with a $2.5 billion structural needed to be was that virtually every Now it is incumbent on us to stand up deficit. We had a tax code that was ab- lobbyist in Raleigh was mad at me— and lead, to deliver on the promises we solutely out of sync with our competi- and I mean all of them. tion, and we set about to fix it. If you look at 1986, the last time we made to do what we told the American This is what we ended up doing. All did meaningful tax reform, virtually people we would do. of the headlines looked exactly the way every lobbyist on Capitol Hill was mad We have before us right now an op- the headlines looked today, but we had at the folks who voted for the bill, and portunity for historic tax cuts. Just members on both sides of the aisle, that was on a bipartisan basis. So we last week, this body voted out a budget Democrats and Republicans, who rec- have to have Members who are willing resolution that is the vehicle for adopt- ognized that North Carolina should be to go big, who are willing to actually ing tax cuts. I urge every Member of one of the fastest growing, most com- reduce the corporate tax rate, to work this body to come together in support petitive States in the Nation. So we on the tax burden for working families, of a strong, bold tax plan that cuts went about trying to figure out how to and to recognize that it is on us. taxes on every working man and make that happen. We determined, for We are in a historic opportunity to women and that brings back jobs and one thing, that there was an undue bur- turn this economy around and to take economic growth. den on individuals and working fami- advantage of the fact that other coun- Growth is really fundamental to lies. So we had to simplify the tax tries are not heeding the call. They are every other challenge we have in this code, and we had to reduce the tax bur- heaping more regulations on their busi- country. If you look historically, since den on the individuals. We also recog- nesses. They are adding more taxes in World War II, our economy has grown nized that our corporate tax rate was some cases. This is a historic oppor- on average about 3.3 percent a year. preventing us from getting the job ex- tunity for us to just blow past the com- Yet, from 2008 to today, we have grown pansion opportunities. The States like petition and ultimately create the re- only 1.2 percent a year—about a third South Carolina, Tennessee, Alabama, sources to retire our debt and provide of the historic rate of growth. and Virginia were winning time after the critical resources we need for so If we don’t turn that around, none of time after time. many other things that we need to get our other problems are solvable. If you By the time I came in as the speaker here, like strengthening our inter- care about the national debt, if you of the house, there had been a long national defense, making sure our care about the deficit, if you care time before we had any major eco- homeland is safe, and securing the bor- about rebuilding and strengthening our nomic development opportunity in der. All of these kinds of things can be military, if you care about strength- North Carolina. So we were able to put done, but they can only be done if we ening and improving Social Security together a corporate tax cut, an indi- have the courage to move forward with and Medicare so that they are there for vidual income tax cut, and, in our case, tax cuts and tax reform. the next generations, we have to have even a sales tax cut, which all of the I hope that all of my Members, before growth. With economic growth, every pundits said was going to be a disaster. Thanksgiving, are in this Chamber and one of those is possible. Without It ended up engineering and serving as have an opportunity to vote for a bold growth—if we stay mired in the stag- the basis for one of the most signifi- reform package but, more importantly, nant Obama 1- and 2-percent GDP cant economic turnarounds of any for the fulfillment of a promise that we growth, none of those problems are State for over the past 30 or 40 years. It made to the American people if we had solvable. went from a zero rainy day fund to a $2 majorities in the Senate, in the House, Growth is foundational. I would like billion rainy day fund, putting more and in the White House. We have it, to lay out three principles and then money into education, putting more and it is time for us to act. seven key elements that I think should money into Medicaid, and creating the I don’t care what the headlines read guide this body in tax reform. No. 1 is resources that would allow us to do the because I have seen those headlines be- growth. When we are adopting tax cuts, other things we wanted to do. fore. I don’t care what the special in- we should focus directly on jobs and When I was speaker, I had to go look terests want in terms of exemptions economic growth and focus on the re- to see what Texas was doing—I see the and exceptions because I have had forms that produce jobs, that expand

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.019 S25OCPT1 S6790 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 economic growth, that grow our econ- We need to cut everybody’s taxes. means that Congress can’t add a bunch omy, that create more opportunity, Last week, I debated BERNIE SANDERS of new things. Even if we tried to put it and that raise wages. on CNN on tax reform. BERNIE, to his in four-point font, eventually you will Working men and women in this credit, was very candid. He said he run out of space on the postcard. The country are hurting. We need wages wanted to raise your taxes. If you are a reason a postcard is so important is it going up. We need more jobs. We need taxpayer, your taxes are going up imposes a discipline on the Federal young people coming out of school with under BERNIE and the Democrats’ vi- Government that it can’t carve out a two, three, four, or five job opportuni- sion. special loophole for every favored or ties. That is what tax cuts are all My vision is every bit as simple on disfavored group because it is simple about. No. 1, we start with growth. the other side. If you are a taxpayer, I and flat and fair for everybody. I will point out that we can do this. want to cut your taxes. That is what No. 3, allow immediate expensing. From 2008 to 2012, the economy grew 0.9 we need to do—to cut taxes fairly, What does expensing mean? It means percent a year—less than 1 percent a across the board for every American, to that if a business makes a capital ex- year on average. If you look back in reduce the burden from Washington, penditure, right now, they physically history to the previous 4-year period and to create jobs and economic oppor- have to amortize it over a number of when growth averaged less than 1 per- tunity. years. Instead, what we should do is cent a year, it was 1978 to 1982. It was I would note that, in that debate allow full and immediate expensing. coming out of the Jimmy Carter ad- with BERNIE, there was one exchange If a farmer in the Presiding Officer’s ministration. It was the same failed that I thought was particularly nota- home State of Iowa buys a new tractor, economic policies—high taxes, high ble. BERNIE, as you know, when he ran that farmer should be able to expense regulation, high spending, and high in Vermont did not run as a Democrat. it immediately, that year. If a steel debt. Rather, he ran telling the voters he factory buys new equipment and hires In 1981 Ronald Reagan came into the was a socialist. I asked a simple ques- new workers to operate that equip- White House. The Reagan Presidency tion: What is the difference between a ment, that steel factory should be able focused front and center on tax cuts, socialist and a Democrat on taxes? to expense that new equipment imme- with major tax cuts in 1981, and then He sat there for several seconds in si- diately. If a diner buys new kitchen following it up in 1986 with major tax lence and said: I don’t know the answer equipment and hires new cooks and reform. to that. waiters and waitresses, the owner of And what happened? When Reagan My response was: Neither do I. that small business should be able to came in 1981 with across-the-board tax One side of this Chamber wants to expense that capital expenditure. And cuts and tax cuts for everybody, Demo- raise your taxes if you are a taxpayer. why is that? The reason is the first crats screamed, the media screamed, The other side of this Chamber wants principle I started with—growth. and yet the economy took off. to cut your taxes if you are a taxpayer. If you care about jobs and economic The fourth year of the Reagan Presi- That is a simple choice for the Amer- growth, expensing is a powerful engine dency, GDP growth wasn’t 3 percent. It ican people. for jobs and economic growth. It cre- wasn’t 4 percent. It wasn’t 5 percent. It What are the elements that should ates millions of new jobs because that wasn’t even 6 percent. It was 7.2 per- reflect those principles? There are cent in 1984—7.2 percent, those are capital has to be spent in the United seven critical elements: No. 1, I believe numbers you hear in the developing States. It has to be spent here. That we should create a simple, low, flat world. Those are numbers you hear in tractor is in the United States; that rate. Currently, there are seven indi- China and India. steel equipment is in the United All of our learned economists who vidual rates with the top rate at nearly States; that diner with the cooking are so world weary and all of our media 40 percent. Ideally, what I believe we equipment is in the United States, reporters who are so world weary tell should have is one simple, low, flat tax. which means those jobs are in the us: No, no, no, that kind of growth is When I was campaigning for Presi- United States. not possible in America anymore. Ac- dent, I campaigned on a simple, flat I would note, by the way, the people cept the new normal of 1 and 2 percent tax of 10 percent for every individual who particularly benefit from imme- of stagnancy, of young people buried in and every family in this country, 16 diate expensing are the working men student loans, of people hurting. Ac- percent as a business flat tax, and to and women of this country—the men cept that as the new normal. abolish every other Federal tax, to and women with callouses on their That is nonsense. If we want to see abolish the corporate income tax, to hands, the men and women, frankly, Reagan-style growth, we need a abolish the death tax, to abolish the al- who gave Donald Trump the victory in Reagan-style tax cut—an unapologetic, ternative minimum tax, and to abolish November of 2016 or the union workers unabashed tax cut that focuses on jobs. the payroll tax. Everyone pays a sim- whom, sadly, the Democratic Party has The second big principle is simple, flat 10 percent for individuals and abandoned. plicity. There is an old rule, KISS, or 16 percent for businesses. Simplicity There was a time when the Demo- ‘‘keep it simple, stupid,’’ which is par- has power. cratic Party styled themselves as the ticularly powerful when it comes to tax It may be the case that we don’t have party of the working man and woman. reform. Bold simplicity has enormous the votes to go to a simple, flat tax That time has been long since forgot- power and, in particular, allowing today. If that is where we are, if we ten. The Democratic Party now listens every American to fill out their taxes don’t have the votes to do it today, to California environmentalist billion- on a postcard. I believe that should be then the closer we get to that the bet- aires and ignores the plight of steel- an integral element of what we pass. It ter. If we can’t get to a simple, flat tax, workers, oilfield workers, farmers, is what I have been pressing for many then going from seven brackets to ranchers, taxicab drivers, truckdrivers, years, and what I would continue to three is an improvement, and going waiters, and waitresses—the men and urge my colleagues here in the Senate from three to two is even better, and women who are working hard for their and in the House to do, which is to sim- going from two to one would be even families. That is who the Republican plify the Tax Code so that we don’t better than that. We need to press con- Party should be fighting for—the work- spend millions and millions of hours sistently for a low, simple, flat rate ing men and women of this country. and paperwork wasted on compliance. that is fair for everyone. Immediate expensing impacts working Make it a postcard. Make it simple. The second element, which we talked men and women, particularly in heavy Then the third objective is fairness. about just a minute ago, is filing your manufacturing. We want a tax system that is fair, that taxes on a postcard. Let me tell you The fourth element is a lower cor- isn’t arbitrary, that isn’t Washington the most wonderful aspect of that sim- porate rate. We are seeing, and we have picking winners and losers and decid- plicity. It is not the billions of hours, seen over the last 8 years, companies ing: OK, this industry we like; so you it is not the billions of dollars that are leaving America and moving their can do OK. This industry we don’t like; saved. The best aspects of filing your headquarters, moving their legal domi- so you are going to hurt. We are going taxes on a postcard are actually the cile to other countries. Why is that? to pick between them. physical dimensions of the postcard. It Because the United States has the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.021 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6791 highest corporate tax rate of any devel- they do with the money overseas? It We see farms that are sold, that are oped country in the world. We have means they build factories in China, in broken up; we see ranches that are created a tax environment that tells Mexico, in India, and countries over- sold, that are broken up; we see small American businesses: If you simply get seas that aren’t America, and then businesses that are sold, that are bro- the heck out of Dodge, if you simply they hire people overseas. Why? Be- ken up because the next generation move somewhere other than America, cause if they bring the capital back that wants to run the small business, immediately your profitability will here and hire Americans, our tax pun- wants to keep the jobs, suddenly has a jump because our corporate tax rate is ishes them. That doesn’t make any massive Federal tax bill. They don’t higher and, in some instances, more sense. have the fancy lawyers and account- than twice as high as our competitors. I want to see that $2.7 trillion come ants who, like the superrich, help them Look at Ireland. Ireland used to have back to America. I want to see that avoid the tax. So they get hit with the high corporate taxes. They cut their money back in this country. I want to full force of the death tax. corporate tax rate. Then they cut it see new factories, I want to see new If you care about jobs and economic again, and they are seeing businesses stores, I want to see new businesses, growth, why do you want a small busi- flood into Ireland because of the low and I want to see new jobs. We need to ness owner to be forced to sell the fac- corporate tax rate, and they bring with encourage repatriation, not put a puni- tory just to pay the tax bill? This them jobs. tive tax on the money coming back. Do means the employees all get laid off; Our focus should be jobs. If we cut you want to talk about patriotism? they lose their jobs. It is much better the corporate rate so that it is low—so There is a reason it is called repatri- to have those small businesses grow- that it is at least as low as our com- ation. It is patriotic to use that money ing, to have those farmers prospering, petitors and ideally even lower—we to hire Americans. and to have those ranchers prospering. will create an environment where more Our Democratic friends just want to The final element is that we need to businesses want to do business in yell and scream and insult them. That end the alternative minimum tax. The America where there are more jobs. is not the right answer. People are AMT is a totally second set of tax- I am reminded of Hillary Clinton, going to respond to rational incentives. ation. Every year, it is growing the who said during the Presidential cam- If you punish companies for bringing number of people who are hit by it, and paign season: Don’t let anybody tell money back to America, they are going it just adds complexity to the code. you that corporations or businesses to respond rationally by not doing We should focus on growth, sim- create jobs. Even in the world of poli- that. Let’s change our tax system so plicity, and fairness. If we do that, if tics, that was a particularly asinine we don’t punish them for bringing jobs we focus on bringing back jobs, we statement. The last time I checked, back to America. have the ability to have a tremendous The sixth element, end the death tax. you get a job from going to work for a impact on our country. The death tax is one of the most unfair business—unless you start your own Finally, I want to make a plea to the aspects of the Federal tax system. The business. You either start your own Members of our conference, to the Re- death tax also happens to be the very business or you go to work for another publicans. We may get some Democrats favorite tax our friends on the Demo- business. That is what gives you jobs. to support us on tax reform. It is pos- cratic side of the aisle love to dema- We need to create that environment. sible. We may get one or two. Sadly, we gogue. I have heard over past weeks at- In recent years, we have talked about are in a different world than we used to tack after attack after attack on the corporate inversions, companies fleeing be. In 1981 and 1986, Democrats actually death tax—that it is about the America. Our friends on the Demo- superrich. used to be willing to work with Repub- cratic side of the aisle have all these Here is a secret that the Democrats licans on taxes. ideas to punish the companies that flee will never tell you. The superrich don’t Tip O’Neill, a Democrat, was Speaker America. Their approach is: We are pay the death tax. By and large, they of the House when Reagan passed mas- going to tax you so high that you can’t manage to avoid the tax with remark- sive tax cuts. Bill Bradley in this body, do business in this country, and then, able success rates. They hire armies of a liberal New Jersey Democrat, helped when you try to survive, we are going accountants and lawyers. Do you think lead the effort for tax reform. There to punish you on top of that with fines George Soros will pay the death tax? are no Tip O’Neills or Bill Bradleys and penalties. It is actually reminis- Hold your breath, and let me know how left. There is not a single Democrat cent of their approach to ObamaCare, that works out. It doesn’t impact the leading the fight for tax reform—not a where they fine people who can’t afford superrich. one. insurance after driving premiums The death tax actually generates You may get one or two Democrats through the roof. very little revenue for the Federal Gov- at the end of the day who cast a vote It is a much better idea to cut our ernment. Who gets hit by the death after everything is done because they corporate tax rate. Let’s create a tax tax? It is the farmers, it is the ranch- are afraid of the electoral consequences and regulatory environment in Amer- ers, and it is the small business owners. in November. But I will make a pre- ica so that businesses want to be here In the debate last week with BERNIE diction right now that if we don’t have and create jobs. It is my hope that 3, 5, SANDERS, BERNIE said that this doesn’t 50 votes on this side of the aisle, not a 10 years from now, other countries— affect farmers at all. single Democrat will provide the 50th European countries and Asian coun- The Presiding Officer and I have both vote. They might be the 52nd or 53rd tries—are complaining about corporate spoken with an awful lot of farmers in vote, but we ain’t getting vote No. 50 inversions because their companies are Iowa and in Texas. I have heard farmer from that side of the aisle, which fleeing their countries and coming to after farmer after farmer lament the means that for tax reform to happen, American, because there is no place on death tax because of what happens our conference has to get our act to- Earth better to do business than Amer- when the patriarch, when the farmer, gether. We have 52 Republicans, and we ica, because we will have honored our passes away and passes the farm on to have to get 50 on the same page. commitment on tax reform and cut the next generation. Over and over Listen, we are at a time when we are taxes and created an environment again, the next generation is forced to seeing personality battles, and we are where businesses can thrive. sell the farm just to pay Uncle Sam. seeing nastiness. This is a strange time No. 5, encourage repatriation. Right They have already paid taxes once; in politics. Any three Republicans can now, Federal tax law subjects Amer- they pay taxes when they earn their torpedo tax reform. I am making a plea ican businesses to punitive double tax- money. The death tax says that for to all 52: Don’t be selfish and petulant. ation at the highest rates in the devel- having the temerity to die, we are Don’t put personal animosities above oped world if they bring capital back going to tax you again at a punitive the good of the country. here from overseas. U.S. companies rate. Death should not be a taxable We were elected by the voters to do a have roughly $2.7 trillion in capital event. That is not fair. It shouldn’t be job. Let’s do the job. Let’s honor the overseas, and our tax system inex- the case that when you die, the two promises we made. Let’s cut taxes, tricably incentivizes them to keep the people you get to see are the under- bring back jobs, bring back economic money overseas, which means—what do taker and the taxman. growth, and demonstrate to the voters

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.022 S25OCPT1 S6792 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 there is a reason they elected Repub- themselves in and that Puerto Rico uated by a Congress that can afford to lican majorities. should just pull itself up by its boot- ignore a big part of the United States If we don’t, if we can’t get our act to- straps. The rewriting of history ignores that has no voice in Congress to object. gether, then I fear the consequences the fact that the Federal Government For over six decades, the U.S. Navy will be catastrophic, both as a policy and Congress have had our hands tight- pummeled the island of Vieques, just matter and a political matter. ly wrapped around those very boot- off Puerto Rico’s coast, with ordnance, I urge my colleagues: Let’s do what straps since 1898. using it as a bombing range for mili- we said we would do. Let’s cut taxes. The United States acquired Puerto tary exercises. Those weapons alleg- Let’s bring back jobs. Rico from Spain through the Treaty of edly contained uranium, napalm, and I yield the floor. Paris in 1898, when the United States Agent Orange. Today, people who live The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- defeated Spain in the Spanish Amer- on Vieques are eight times more likely ator from Connecticut. ican War. Puerto Ricans didn’t ask to to have cardiovascular disease and PUERTO RICO be part of the United States; we ac- seven times more likely to die of diabe- Mr. MURPHY. Madam President, I quired the island. A century ago, Con- tes than others in Puerto Rico. Cancer rise today to talk about the dire hu- gress extended U.S. citizenship to rates on Vieques are much higher. manitarian situation in Puerto Rico Puerto Ricans. In 1950, Congress recog- If you want to know why Puerto Rico and to challenge this country to end a nized the island’s limited authority has been in a decade-long recession, century of discrimination against the over internal governance, and Puerto look no further than Congress. More Puerto Rican people. Rico became formally known as the than 50 years ago, the U.S. Government While the fleeting media attention Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. launched several initiatives to help may have waned, the desperation of the Being a commonwealth or a territory spur economic growth on the island. It people of Puerto Rico has not. The is permanent second-class status. With- was a good thing. Ironically enough, lackluster response from the Trump out access to the same healthcare re- the initiatives were collectively called administration is an outrage. It has imbursement, the same infrastructure Operation Bootstrap. One of the tools been more than a month since the hur- funding, the same education dollars as that were used to spur economic ricane, and 80 percent of the island’s other States, Puerto Rico starts every growth was a tax break to allow U.S. electricity is still out. Roads and single race 50 feet behind the rest of manufacturing companies to avoid cor- bridges have collapsed. Homes have America. These built-in disadvantages porate income taxes on profits that been destroyed. Of the 67 hospitals that are designed to hold Puerto Rico back. were made in Puerto Rico. Manufactur- are open, less than half of them are op- They have been in place for 100 years to ers descended on the island in droves, erating with electricity. Families are keep Puerto Rico from being a true and the entire economy in Puerto Rico searching far and wide for clean drink- economic competitor with the main- became oriented around those compa- ing water, and some have been drink- land. nies. But what Congress gives, Con- Believe me, the Puerto Rican people ing water from wells at a Superfund gress can take away, especially if the have done everything they can to over- site. entity you are taking from has no come this discriminatory treatment. This kind of inhumane response meaningful representation in Congress. There is an entrepreneurial, never-say- would never ever be permitted in a U.S. In 1996, Congress phased out the tax die spirit in Puerto Rico. I know this State. But one doesn’t even have to breaks. Guess what. It sucked the is- because no State has a greater percent- look at other States to evaluate this land’s tax base away, cratering Puerto age of residents with Puerto Rican response; we can look abroad. Within 2 Rico’s economy for the next two dec- roots than Connecticut. But despite weeks of the earthquake in Haiti, there ades. the strength of the Puerto Rican peo- were 17,000 U.S. military personnel on It is worth noting that Puerto Rico is ple, they are stuck because Washington the ground in that country. Two weeks not blameless for the financial situa- has tied their hands behind their backs tion that it is in. There definitely has after Hurricane Maria made landfall in by taking away the right to vote in been a fair share of mismanagement on the United States, the United States Federal elections, virtually guaran- the island. Bad decisions have been had deployed only 10,000 troops to re- teeing that Puerto Rico’s economic dis- made. Saying that Puerto Rico is only spond to the disaster in both Puerto advantage will never ever be remedied. a victim of schemes of the mainland is Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. It is a black hole from which Puerto not true. But the same can be said of News broke yesterday that the state- Rico and the other four U.S. territories fiscal mismanagement and bad deci- owned electric company on the island, can never escape. PREPA, refused to operationalize mu- Puerto Ricans are U.S. citizens—de- sions in other U.S. States. But a cen- tual aid agreements with electric com- spite the fact that recent polling sug- tury of underinvestment in Puerto panies on the U.S. mainland. That is a gests that half of Americans don’t Rico has been a big part of the story as standard step in normal disaster re- know this—but they can’t vote for to how they arrived at this situation. sponse. Fault lies with PREPA, but President. They have no voting rep- And unlike all those other U.S. States, how on Earth did FEMA and the Trump resentation in Congress. Think about it Puerto Rico has no way of rectifying administration allow that to happen, this way: Americans with a mainland the past misdeeds because its toolbox leaving millions of Puerto Ricans in address can vote if they move to Mon- to reckon with its past is limited to the dark and in danger for almost a golia or Sierra Leone, but if they tem- what Congress sticks in the toolbox, month? It is beyond comprehension, porarily take up residence in a U.S. and that toolbox doesn’t provide access and it speaks to the failure of the U.S. territory like Puerto Rico, they mirac- to the Bankruptcy Code. Government’s response. ulously lose their right to vote. As a result, Congress passed The truth is that Hurricane Maria There are real, practical con- PROMESA, which created this finan- exposed far more than just immediate sequences to this lack of representa- cial oversight board on the island. physical damage; the hurricane also tion. We are watching the most egre- Puerto Rican bondholders on Wall laid bare a very simple truth that is gious example right now. Do you really Street, who bought the bonds for pen- plain to every resident of the island think that if Puerto Rico had two U.S. nies on the dollar, are now challenging and every Puerto Rican living in my Senators, 80 percent of the island the current oversight board’s legit- State. The truth is this: The United would still be without power a month imacy, with the hope of being paid be- States has been screwing Puerto Rico after the hurricane? By the way, Puer- fore the island gets relief. These prac- for over 100 years, and this is just the to Rico has more citizens than 21 tices of the bondholders, who have been latest, most disgusting chapter. States that have a total of 42 Senators circling the island for years, are made There is an undercurrent in the dis- in this body. Do you think a President more menacing because they are spend- course about Puerto Rico that is as would denigrate and insult Puerto Rico ing boatloads of money lobbying Con- pernicious as it is ahistorical. You will the way President Trump has if it had gress. Just watch TV at night in Wash- hear people, like President Trump, say electoral votes? ington, DC, to see their ads. They know that Puerto Ricans are wholly respon- The botched response to Maria is just that the people of Puerto Rico have no sible for the financial mess they find the latest attack on the island, perpet- voice here, have no votes here.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.023 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6793 Now it looks as though other preda- come from the disaster of Hurricane CHIP has been a lifesaver for some tors are circling. News came out this Maria, maybe it is that. families. This is Colton. He is from the week that a small, two-person com- I yield the floor. small town of Anthony, NM. Colton pany in Whitefish, MT, somehow, some The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- was 8 years old when he was diagnosed way, got a no-bid $300 million contract ator from New Mexico. with cancer. Fortunately, the cancer to restore power in Puerto Rico from HEALTHCARE was treatable, and he was insured by the island’s power authority—the same Mr. UDALL. Madam President, Re- CHIP. So the cost of his treatment and power authority that refused the help publicans have spent months trying to medications were covered. Without of experienced electric companies that repeal the Affordable Care Act. They CHIP, Colton’s family would have had actually know how to turn the power knew that tens of millions of Ameri- to have paid hundreds of dollars a back on. How does something like this cans would lose their care, they knew month for his treatment, which is the happen? It turns out that the little it would betray our Federal trust re- cost of a month’s rent. town in Montana is the home of the sponsibility to Native Americans, and Families should not have to choose new Secretary of the Interior. they knew it would throw one-fifth of between lifesaving care for their chil- Get ready, because this is just the our economy into chaos. TrumpCare dren and a roof over their heads. start. President Trump and his billion- failed because the American people op- Colton’s father wrote to the Santa Fe aire cronies are going to use this dis- posed it. Americans spoke out against New Mexican, and it read: aster to enrich themselves. The White- it in record numbers. TrumpCare failed Watching my son battle for his life was al- fish power contract given to a friend of to pass four times. We hope that now most more than I could bear. I couldn’t the Secretary of Interior—with two we have put that to bed and we can imagine dealing with the stress of scraping move on. together everything we had to cover the people employed at that company—is medical bills if we didn’t have coverage. Hav- just a scratch on the surface of what is But rather than listening to millions of Americans, President Trump has re- ing [CHIP] allowed us to focus on what was to come. truly important—Colton’s future and being Puerto Rico has been getting screwed sponded by sabotaging the Affordable there for my family as we went through this for decades. None of this is new. None Care Act. His reckless behavior is al- life-changing experience. of this is unpredictable. If you think ready causing chaos in the market- But, now, States are looking at con- place. His actions have hyped up the this is just one century-long string of tingency plans. New Mexico has re- cost of premiums. He has sent out-of- rough luck, you are ignoring the last serves but only until next spring. Some pocket costs through the roof. Instead critical aspect of Puerto Rican history. States will be forced to cover all of the of helping Americans get better Back in 1901, when the U.S. Supreme cost in just a few months, and others healthcare, he has put it out of reach Court decided that even though resi- are preparing to send notices to fami- dents of the territories lived in the for millions. I commend my colleagues Senator lies that their coverage will end. No United States, they shouldn’t be able parent who is already in crisis because to enjoy full constitutional protec- ALEXANDER and Senator MURRAY. They have found a bipartisan solution to this of a sick child should have to go tions, the Supreme Court was pretty through that. CHIP was a bipartisan explicit about why these citizens in new healthcare crisis caused by our President. I urge Leader MCCONNELL to success story. I hope that we can get places like Puerto Rico deserved this back to working together on this. second-class treatment. Justice Henry put it onto the floor. The Affordable Care Act isn’t the The 50-year-old Community Health Brown, who authored the separate but only healthcare program at risk. The Centers Program delivers comprehen- equal doctrine, held that Puerto Rico President and Republicans are letting sive healthcare services to some of our and the other territories didn’t need to funds run dry for other critical health Nation’s most vulnerable individuals— be afforded full rights under the Con- programs. Last month, the Children’s schoolchildren, people experiencing stitution because the islands were ‘‘in- Health Insurance Program expired. homelessness, agricultural workers, habited by alien races, differing from CHIP insures almost 9 million children and our veterans. In New Mexico, 17 of us in religion, customs, laws, methods across the country, including over these clinics serve 333,000 patients in 90 of taxation, and modes of thought.’’ 11,000 kids in my home State of New underserved and rural communities. That, my friends, is racism defined. Mexico. The Community Health Cen- The Community Health Centers are And it is both past and present when it ters Program also expired last month. also important to the economy in rural comes to the rationale for the histor- Republicans failed to extend the Ma- communities. In New Mexico, they em- ical and continued mistreatment of the ternal, Infant, and Early Childhood ploy almost 3,000 people across the people of Puerto Rico. Home Visiting Services. That is one of State. These clinics cannot sustain a It is time for that mistreatment to the most effective health programs 70-percent funding cut if Federal sup- change—not just by doing right by that we have. Without it, more than port is canceled. Many would be forced Puerto Rico at this moment, at their 1,000 New Mexico parents could miss to shut their doors. hour of need. Yes, it is time for Presi- out on home visits. They will not get I recently visited one of these clin- dent Trump to command that FEMA crucial information about how to nurse ics—the De Baca Family Practice Clin- and the U.S. military and the powers their newborns, recognize healthy be- ic in Fort Sumner, NM. It provides that be in Puerto Rico turn the lights havior in infants, and teach basic skills high-quality medical services to over back on right now. Congress should to their children. The Special Diabetes 3,000 patients. Over one-fifth of its pa- give Puerto Rico every cent they need. Program for Indians is also set to ex- tients are children, and another one- I am glad that we came together this pire in December. fifth are seniors, but if funding runs week to approve the latest round of I urge Republicans to work with us to out, the De Baca Family Practice Clin- emergency aid, but it is long past time reauthorize these critical healthcare ic will be forced to start laying off es- that we addressed the second-class programs. We need to act urgently. We sential medical staff and to reduce its treatment we have given the people of can get this done by Thanksgiving or hours. Puerto Rico for decades. Even that rac- earlier if we work together. Clinic director Lisa Walraven told ist 1901 Supreme Court decision con- Madam President, I want to talk me: ‘‘You simply cannot reduce fund- templated that the territories’ unequal about CHIP first. ing by 70 percent from a small frontier status could only be justified tempo- CHIP provides comprehensive health healthcare facility and expect anything rarily. It is time to untie the hands of insurance for kids whose families do other than a significant loss of access the Puerto Rican people and ensure not quite qualify for Medicaid but who to care.’’ that they have full economic and polit- cannot afford private insurance. CHIP Both CHIP and community health ical rights. covers basic medical care, like immu- centers provide preventive care to un- I hope my colleagues will join me in nizations, prescriptions, routine check- derserved communities throughout this conversation in the coming ups and dental visits. Thanks to CHIP, New Mexico. They are supporting our months. It is just as important as the the rate of uninsured kids in America healthcare system to ensure that we one we are having on emergency re- has dropped from 14 percent to 4.5 per- don’t let any families fall through the sponse because if anything good can cent. cracks.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.025 S25OCPT1 S6794 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 Indian Country also depends on these Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I ask 364 nominees in place. The Democrats programs and others like them to pro- unanimous consent that the order for have blocked judges, Cabinet Secre- vide vital care to their communities. the quorum call be rescinded. taries, and other high-ranking officials. The Federal Government has a trust The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Now, it is interesting because you and treaty obligation to provide objection, it is so ordered. have seen this. Many of these nominees healthcare to Native Americans. Yet Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, even have Democrat support, and they the Indian Health Service is severely President Trump has been in office now are not controversial at all, but Demo- underfunded. CHIP and similar pro- for more than 9 months. For this entire crats are doing everything they can to grams help to supplement care that the time, Senate Democrats have been try- slow down the process. During Presi- Indian Health Service cannot provide. ing to obstruct him from doing the dent Obama’s first 9 months, he had 364 CHIP currently covers more than 1,400 very job that he was elected by the confirmed. So President Obama had Native American children in New Mex- American people to do. The President gotten 2 for every 1 that President ico. Allowing these programs to expire has laid out his agenda to create jobs, Trump has gotten confirmed. would betray our treaty obligations. to grow the economy, and to help hard- There are 81 of President Trump’s Another program cited that is crit- working American taxpayers. Yet nominees who have gone through the ical to Indian Country is the Special Democrats will do everything they can committees and another some number Diabetes Program for Indians. It pro- to stop the President from putting his today. They are 81 people who have vides grants to Native communities for team in place to accomplish these been nominated by the President for diabetes treatment and prevention. goals. positions in the government who are Without proper treatment, diabetes They have tried to stop the Presi- just waiting right now for a vote on the can lead to limb amputation and kid- dent’s legislative agenda because they Senate floor. Many of these people got ney failure. The disproportionate im- know that his policies will actually through the nomination process in pact on Native Americans is a public work. When Republican policies be- June but are still waiting and being health problem that we cannot ignore. come law, Democrats know that the blocked by Democrats in the Senate. It This program is making real people will see how successful these is outrageous. Republican policies are. I think Demo- progress. It helps to fund over 300 Na- Do Democrats really think that these crats are worried that they may never tive health programs in 35 States, in- are not important jobs—that they do win another election again once we get cluding 29 programs in New Mexico. not need people in those jobs to do the these policies into place. That is why They help educate communities about important work that they have been we have seen a record number of delays how to prevent diabetes and provide assigned to do? and obstructions by the Democrats in care so that Native patients can man- I believe that we should confirm as the Senate. They have done it on legis- age their diabetes more effectively. many of them as possible today. There It is one of the most effective public lation, and they have even blocked the are 13 judges waiting for confirmation. health initiatives ever undertaken by President from filling some of the most There are 8 U.S. attorneys waiting, in- the Federal Government. Diabetes-re- basic jobs within his administration. cluding the U.S. attorney from my lated kidney failure has dropped 54 per- It started on day one. Normally, on home State of Wyoming. These are im- cent among Native Americans. In some Inauguration Day, the President gets a portant jobs. States, like Alaska, leg amputations substantial number of people con- We all understand that there is a among Native people with diabetes firmed to his Cabinet. The idea is to let process that we need to go through to have decreased more than 68 percent. the President get his team in place so fill these positions—to make sure the This program literally saves life and that it can hit the ground running. people are vetted and to make sure limb. President Obama had six of his Cabinet Program directors across Indian Secretaries confirmed on Inauguration they are the right people for the jobs. Country tell me that without this Day, and President Bush had seven All of these people have followed the funding they will have to start laying Secretaries confirmed on Inauguration process. They have been doing every- off staff and limiting their diabetes Day. These confirmations were by thing they have been asked to do in programming. We need to provide fund- voice vote, but that was not the case that they have filled out the paper- ing to Tribal communities so that they with President Trump—just two with work, filled out the disclosures, and can invest in projects that will be more rollcall votes on Inauguration Day. have gone through the committees. effective in preventing diabetes over Republicans in the Senate did not do Now it is time for the Senate to get its time. anything to try to block the Cabinet work done. I would say let’s do it Congress must act to allow this suc- Secretaries for President Obama, for today. cessful program to reach its full poten- we understood that it was best to give Interestingly enough, in August, the tial. We cannot allow diabetes to be- a new President a chance and for all of Democrats finally allowed a significant come a death sentence in Indian Coun- us to work together when we could. number of people to be confirmed. try once again. With George W. Bush, it was seven. More than 60 people were confirmed by The failure to fund CHIP, the failure That is how it usually works, but not voice vote on one day. That is the kind to fund the community health centers, anymore—no, not with this group of of thing that used to be very routine in home visiting health services, and the Democrats in the Senate. They really the Senate—letting a large number of Special Diabetes Program will force were never interested in giving Presi- noncontroversial nominees be approved families into another health crisis. dent Trump a chance. They really do all at once. It is now time to do it Every day that we neglect these pro- not seem to be working together. Last again. There is a significant backlog. grams, more people will suffer. These January, President Trump had two So I want to get these folks confirmed programs have years—sometimes dec- people confirmed to the Cabinet on In- now. It is time to clear the deck and ades—of proven success. auguration Day—the Secretary of De- let these people get to work who have The American people want Congress fense and the Secretary of Homeland been nominated and vetted, who have to work together to come up with bi- Security. They were the only two jobs gone through the committees and been partisan solutions. Most of these pro- that the Democrats allowed the Presi- approved. grams were created through bipartisan dent to fill. We need to move these nominations cooperation. Let’s get back to that In President Trump’s first 9 months because we have more nominations on spirit and work together for the Amer- in office, Democrats have continued to the way. We are going to have to deal ican people again. block the way. They have allowed just with the nominations of two Cabinet I yield the floor. 185 of his nominees to take their jobs. Secretaries for positions that are cur- I suggest the absence of a quorum. That is how ridiculous the Democrats rently vacant. President Trump has The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. have been in trying to keep President nominated Kirstjen Nielsen to be Sec- TILLIS). The clerk will call the roll. Trump from putting his team in place. retary of Homeland Security. It is an The bill clerk proceeded to call the By this far into the administration at important job, and she is very qualified roll. the same time, President Obama had for it.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:25 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.026 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6795 Do the Democrats plan to block her fires, as if they are some ordinary package, the third tranche of assist- confirmation to be Secretary of Home- event because there is currently no ance for the disasters this year. We land Security? Do the Democrats plan FEMA-style reaction to terrible forest need $200 million to fund the repair and to obstruct this qualified woman from fires. replacement of infrastructure and trail doing the important job she has been We respond with FEMA for tornadoes infrastructure damaged—the buildings nominated by President Trump to do? and for floods and for tidal waves and and the trails that were damaged by The President deserves to have his for hurricanes and for earthquakes but these forest fires. Now, that $200 mil- team in place. The Senate has an obli- not forest fires. Well, the result is, the lion, that goes half to trails and infra- gation to get that work done. The De- Forest Service runs out of funds to structure that were damaged by the partment of Homeland Security de- fight the fires in a bad year, and then hurricanes and half to those impacted serves to have a Secretary in place to they have to drain all the other pro- by the fires. Essentially, the damage keep us safe. That is how it has worked grams they are working on, including was roughly equally split. Without this in the past and how it should be work- the programs to prepare for future tim- type of funding, the Forest Service will ing now. ber cuts, the programs to thin the for- be forced to postpone or cancel projects These people manage major Depart- ests, the programs to repair the infra- in fiscal year 2018 to accommodate the ments of the government. They man- structure in the Federal forests, all recovery. It will compromise the work age many career workers. We know these other efforts, and then they can’t to remove hazardous trees for public that the Washington bureaucracy has resume those efforts until we have re- safety, road and trail maintenance, re- grown tremendously over the years and stored their funding, which can come storing vegetation in watersheds, and that it is very difficult to eliminate often far later. rehabilitating wildlife and fish habitat. people who aren’t doing their jobs This fire borrowing has to end. That The third thing we have to do is seize properly. We have seen it in the scan- is why we absolutely need to support the moment and invest in fire resil- dals over the years. Remember the the bill Senator WYDEN, Senator ience. Every single time we have a fire Gold King Mine disaster? President CRAPO, and others have been working season like this—and this season we on to say: Let’s create a FEMA-like Obama’s EPA—the group who is sup- spent almost twice as much, on aver- structure for these worst fires so we posed to protect the environment—ac- age, to fight the fires—people ask: Why end this fire-borrowing devastation of tually dumped 3 million gallons of don’t we do more on the front end to the fire accounts. That absolutely toxic wastewater in a river in Colo- reduce the risk of these fires? needs to happen. Well, that is such logical thinking to rado. Remember the scandals involving Right now, there are three funding do more on the front end. What do they bureaucrats in the Department of Vet- issues we need to address. First, we mean by that? We have millions of erans Affairs, the IRS, and the General need to help out the communities that acres of second-growth forests. We Services Administration during the have been impacted economically by clearcut them. Some of them regrew Obama administration? We need Presi- these devastating fires. Some have naturally. Others were replanted. We dential appointees in place overseeing been scorched directly, others have these Federal workers to make sure been profoundly affected by the smoke replant virtually everything now. After that the government of the people is in the community, others have been af- 10 or 20 years, the trees are very close accountable to the American people. fected by highways being shut down, together. The branches are very close The Senate needs to be involved in and others have been impacted by tour- to the ground. This is prime territory providing oversight through our power ism dropping dramatically. So it is for fires. Fires love this. Disease loves of advice and consent. Democrats don’t very important that we send a message this. So it becomes a real problem un- want that to happen. They have been to the Department of Agriculture, the less you go in and thin the trees enor- keeping the Senate from providing that Small Business Administration, and mously—take out a lot of those trees— oversight, dragging out the process, the Department of Housing and Urban and proceed to get rid of the hazardous making sure that the bureaucrats Development to say: Use your emer- fuels of branches that accumulate on whom they seem to have more faith in gency programs to assist these commu- the ground and so forth. But if you do are accountable to the American peo- nities. We really should make sure those two things, those forests become ple rather than those whom the Amer- they are at the front of the line, along much more resistant to fire. ican people voted for on election day. with those who have suffered the disas- When you are doing this on a stand These are important jobs, and we ters in Texas, Florida, and Puerto that is a bit older—20 or 30 years have qualified people ready to do the Rico, for emergency loans and assist- older—you also get a significant supply work. Democrats have delayed for 9 ance from the Small Business Adminis- of sawlogs for the mills. So this is a months. It is time to break that logjam tration and for an augmented share of real win-win situation. You get a forest today. community development block grants that is better in resisting fire, you get I thank the Presiding Officer. to assist them in a very flexible fash- a forest that is better in resisting dis- I yield the floor. ion. ease, you get a forest that is better for I suggest the absence of a quorum. I had the chance to meet this week- timber stands, and you get a forest The PRESIDING OFFICER. The end with leaders in the Rogue Valley to that is better in terms of being an eco- clerk will call the roll. talk about how smoke had affected system. With all that winning, we need The legislative clerk proceeded to them, and company after company to do more to make it actually happen. call the roll. after company had been dramatically In my State of Oregon, there are 1.6 Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I ask impacted. Some you would say was ob- million acres that have already gone unanimous consent that the order for vious. If you have a zip line company through the environmental process. the quorum call be rescinded. and tourists aren’t coming because the They are ready to be thinned and have The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without smoke is very thick, you are going to the hazardous fuels removed. In Wash- objection, it is so ordered. be impacted, but others are a little less ington State, it is at least 400,000 acres. WESTERN WILDFIRES obvious; for example, the production of There are probably hundreds of thou- Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I am wine and the potential impact of the sands of acres in every State from coming to the floor to talk about the smoke and the fires directly on the Montana and Idaho to California, Ne- challenge we have with forest fires that harvest but then also on perhaps taint- vada, and New Mexico. have been raging in the West, in Mon- ing the flavor of the wine, which will This picture shows the difference. tana and Idaho and Washington and Or- have an impact down the road. This road right here had a stand on the egon and California, and periodically So we need to make sure we do all we left that had not been thinned. If you we have devastating fires in Colorado, can to assist these communities just as can make out the colors, these trees New Mexico, and Nevada. we are assisting the communities that are dead. They are all brown—dead We have to figure out how we do a have been devastated by Hurricanes trees because of the heat of the fire better job in a multitude of ways. Harvey, Maria, and Irma. when it swept through. This side of the First, it is very important that we quit The second thing we need to do is, we road had been treated. The trees had treating terrible fire years, enormous need to include $200 million in the next been thinned. The brush had been

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.027 S25OCPT1 S6796 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 taken out from below. They often call partisan support and would improve the administration to commit to pro- that mowing. It has had prescriptive issues with our healthcare system by viding stability for health insurance fire in it, which means after you have stabilizing the individual marketplace markets and to working together on bi- thinned it, you may go 10 or 15 years, and lowering premiums for Americans. partisan solutions that reduce and then let fire burn up the shrubs at This is what I have long pushed for. healthcare costs and ensure access to the base. Therefore, on this side of the Today, it is more important than ever quality medical care. road, the forest is undamaged. that we act to pass this bipartisan leg- Over the past several months, I have In fact, I went out to this area out- islation. I would like to take a few engaged in bipartisan conversations in side of Sisters, OR, this last weekend. minutes to explain why. meetings with my colleagues to discuss It is just remarkable how the area that Beginning next week, on November 1, ways we can partner together to sta- had been thinned and treated with millions of Americans, including Hoo- bilize our healthcare markets. We have mowing and prescription fire became siers, can sign up for healthcare cov- talked to a range of healthcare experts. very resistant to the fire that was erage through the individual market- There has been a good-faith effort to sweeping toward Sisters. It really place. Unfortunately, as consumers find common ground on steps we can helped the Forest Service fight the fire prepare to shop for health insurance take to lower costs for families. That is because they could easily maneuver plans, there is uncertainty and insta- what we should be doing. through the area that had been bility in the marketplace and confu- After participating in this effort, I thinned, much more than the area that sion and higher prices for consumers. was pleased that Senators LAMAR hadn’t been thinned. So that Milli fire That wasn’t the case earlier this year, ALEXANDER and PATTY MURRAY was stopped before it got to Sisters, as both public and private analyses reached a bipartisan agreement last thankfully. In other places where the showed that individual marketplaces week. It makes improvements to our forest hadn’t been thinned, the out- were relatively stable and improving. healthcare system and helps reduce come might have been very different. For the last 10 months, though, the costs for our families. Let’s invest now in this win-win. administration has worked to make it I am proud to cosponsor this legisla- Let’s not succumb to the traditional harder for Americans to access afford- tion. It continues cost-sharing reduc- timber wars of the past. After fires like able healthcare and destabilized the tion payments that reduce consumers’ this, there are those folks who come markets. For many months, the admin- deductibles. It also reduces copays for along and say: We just need to clearcut istration refused to commit to con- two years and restores funding to help everything. Let’s do a 10,000-square- tinuing important cost-sharing reduc- Americans navigate signing up for foot timber sale with no environmental tion payments that reduce costs for health insurance. It enables more flexi- review and allow everything to be cut. consumers and, even worse, played pol- bility for States without undermining That was the 1950s. In fact, we have a itics with these payments. This cul- essential health benefits or harming bill in this Chamber that says: Do ex- minated with the administration’s an- people who have preexisting condi- actly that, and you can take out the nouncement earlier this month that it tions. old growth and the big trees. The irony would discontinue cost-sharing reduc- If this legislation came to a vote of that is those are the trees that are tion payments. This decision came today, I am confident it would receive actually fire resistant. Those are the only weeks before open enrollment. more than the 60 votes needed to pass trees you want to leave. There is no disputing a simple fact: in the Senate. It has wide-ranging sup- This is a solution that brings the en- port from both Democrats and Repub- vironmental world and the timber The administration’s actions created world together and provides a supply of uncertainty for insurers, causing some licans. It has bipartisan support, not sawlogs for our mills. Let’s make that to significantly raise rates and others only in the Senate but also from Re- type of vision happen. But to do that, to leave the market altogether. As a publican and Democratic Governors all we have to fund the effort. We have to result, many Americans will be forced across the country. We have heard have the funds to be able to go in and to pay more for healthcare plans from groups, including the American do that thinning and mowing and fire through the individual marketplace. Medical Association, the U.S. Chamber prescription. That is why we are asking For example, CareSource, an insur- of Commerce, and AARP, urging Con- for about $600 million to help thin the ance company that offers insurance to gress to move forward on this proposal forests of Montana, Idaho, Washington, Hoosiers through the individual mar- because it is common sense. It benefits Oregon, California, Nevada, New Mex- ketplace, told me earlier this year that families. It helps stabilize the insur- ico, and wherever else there is a forest rates would rise 2.2 percent if the Fed- ance markets. that has gone through that environ- eral Government committed to con- It is our job to protect families from mental review. It is ready for action. tinuing cost-sharing reduction pay- unnecessary increases in the cost of Let’s put Americans to work in those ments. Because the administration re- healthcare, particularly those within forests in this win-win strategy. fused to do so, rates for CareSource our control. We have an opportunity to Three things we need to do: Help our plans are on average now 20 percent do that with the bipartisan Alexander- communities that are scorched, pro- higher for Hoosiers than last year. Murray agreement that we achieved by ceed to invest in emergency repair of Centene, the other insurer offering working together. the damaged infrastructure on our for- coverage in the marketplace, will have The healthcare debate should not be est lands, and invest a significant $500 average rate increases of nearly 36 per- a political game. The stakes are way to $600 million in thinning the forests cent. In addition to higher rates, it will too high for that because healthcare that have already gone through envi- be harder for Hoosiers to find help en- impacts the well-being and the eco- ronmental review. rolling in healthcare plans because the nomic security of millions of Ameri- Thank you. administration slashed 82 percent of cans. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Navigator Program funding for my I have said over and over that the ator from Indiana. home State of Indiana—the deepest cut American people expect us to work to- HEALTHCARE of any State in the country. gether to try and make life a little bit Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, for Consumers also have a shorter period better. At the very least, we should do years, I have been calling on Demo- to enroll than in past years. The ad- no harm. The Alexander-Murray agree- crats and Republicans to work together ministration plans to do maintenance ment not only provides relief for fami- to improve the healthcare law. There and shut down HealthCare.gov for 12 lies, it actually helps put them in a are some, like me, who recognize the hours on all but one Sunday through- better place. There is no doubt we have benefits of the existing healthcare law, out the open enrollment period. more work to do, but this proposal is as well as the areas that need fixing, It does not have to be this way. As I an important first step. Let’s strength- and I have proposed that we partner to- have said for years, there is another en the healthcare system and make gether to strengthen our healthcare path—a bipartisan path. We should healthcare more affordable with this system. work in a bipartisan manner to im- bipartisan solution. For the first time, we have legisla- prove our healthcare system, all Amer- I yield back. tion in the Senate that has broad bi- icans working together. I have pressed I suggest the absence of a quorum.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.030 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6797 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The The Burmese military has conducted Let me apply this observation about clerk will call the roll. a deplorable campaign of violence the linkage between our values and our The senior assistant legislative clerk against the Rohingya Muslim minor- interests—not just domestically but proceeded to call the roll. ity, including the systematic use of internationally—to the situation in Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I ask arson, murder, and rape. Our State De- Burma. We know the past and present unanimous consent that the order for partment tells us that nearly 300 vil- Burmese Governments have systemati- the quorum call be rescinded. lages have been either partially or cally deprived the Rohingya population The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. COT- completely destroyed by fire just since of their most fundamental human TON). Without objection, it is so or- August 25 of this year by the Burmese rights. Not surprisingly, this has com- dered. military. That is more than half of the pelled a small number to join the ROHINGYA HUMANITARIAN CRISIS approximately 470 Muslim villages in Arakan Rohingya Salvation Army, Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I northern Rakhine State. ARSA. thank my colleague from Indiana for Ambassador Haley has indicated that The most recent wave of ethnic joining me on the floor today to raise the Burmese military’s actions con- cleansing began after ARSA conducted awareness of the ethnic cleansing that stitute a sustained campaign to cleanse a coordinated attack on Burmese secu- has been occurring on the other side of the country of an ethnic minority— rity outposts, and the Burmese mili- our planet, ethnic cleansing by the ethnic cleansing. The U.N. High Com- tary responded with disproportionate Burmese military against the missioner for Human Rights has re- military actions and deplorable at- Rohingya Muslim minority. ferred to this situation as a textbook tacks on civilians. Just last week, together we sent a example of ethnic cleansing. Here is a point the Burmese Govern- We have seen more than 600,000, who letter to U.N. Ambassador Nikki ment and the Burmese military must are mostly of the Rohingya ethnic mi- Haley. It was signed by 21 of our col- understand. By refusing to treat the nority, flee the violence in the Rakhine leagues. It called for ‘‘tangible actions Rohingyas as full, equal citizens and by State and seek refuge in Bangladesh. against the Burmese government to attacking their own people who just They travel on foot for days, carrying end the violence, to help the Burmese want to live in peace, the Burmese what they can of their belongings, car- people and make clear that there will military is only going to increase the rying their young children. It is mostly be consequences for those who commit number of Rohingyas who will be women and children who make this such atrocities against civilians.’’ radicalized, exacerbating the very trek. Upon arrival in Bangladesh, we I am pleased to partner with my col- problem the Burmese military says it have been briefed that many of them league on this. I think he will share is trying to address. So this is not in require immediate lifesaving assist- some remarks, and then I will follow ance. Burma’s interest. I can’t emphasize up with some remarks of my own. To put this severity in some measure that enough. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- of context, yesterday, our Department Before the most recent iteration of ator from Indiana. of State and U.S. Agency for Inter- this crisis, in December 2016, the Inter- Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I thank national Development characterized national Crisis Group—an inter- my colleague for his leadership on this the resulting population movement as national nongovernmental organiza- issue. It has been a pleasure to lead a ‘‘almost unprecedented’’—almost un- tion—issued a report titled ‘‘Myanmar: subcommittee in the Foreign Relations precedented—amidst all of the other A New Muslim Insurgency in Rakhine Committee with Senator MERKLEY. We challenges we have seen in recent State.’’ The report said a number of have always worked in a constructive years, including the migrant crisis things, among them that the ‘‘contin- fashion on some consequential issues coming out of the Middle East and ued use of disproportionate force that and none more consequential than the across the shores of the Mediterranean. has driven tens of thousands from their one before us today. Some research suggests the refugee homes or across the border to Ban- With respect to the crisis in Burma, flow from Burma has been swifter than gladesh . . . could create conditions for we recently met with the lead person the exodus from Rwanda in 1994. further radicalizing sections of the on an international NGO who just re- Many Americans will say: You know, Rohingya population that turned from camps in Bangladesh. He honestly, we have a lot of challenges in transnational jihadists could exploit.’’ briefed us on some of the horrible cir- the world. Why should I care about this As we saw in Syria—to choose just cumstances facing these individuals one? Well, here is why: In Burma, we one comparative example—when the who have been forced out of Burma. see a group of people—the Rohingya— government fails to respect the basic This last Friday, as Senator being systematically targeted because human rights of their citizenry, then MERKLEY indicated, we also led a letter of their ethnicity. This, of course, runs conflict ensues. It can lead to far wider to Ambassador Haley regarding the afoul of our basic values, the principles radicalization. The conflict becomes a Burma crisis. I would also note that we upon which our country was founded. magnet, a magnet for international had an important hearing on this topic These principles inform the rules of the terrorists. It becomes a factory that yesterday in the full Foreign Relations international order that has existed for creates more international terrorists. Committee. I commend our leadership some number of decades now. These In short, when governments commit for putting that together. rules are the mortar that holds the systematic and large-scale violence, I want to share some of my thoughts order together. We simply cannot allow oppression, and injustice against its about this crisis. Before I do, I would certain rules of international behavior own people, it creates a fertile ground like to acknowledge folks back home to be violated or that will encourage for Islamist terrorist recruitment and in the State of Indiana. I happen to other bad actors, and they will con- radicalization. This is contrary to the represent a significant number of Bur- tinue to be undermined, thus, under- interests of everyone, including the mese Americans. These are patriotic mining our national interests. Burmese Government. fellow Hoosiers, who have played an in- Recent history demonstrates that Further, if left unaddressed, the hu- strumental role helping to educate me the systematic violation of funda- manitarian and security situation in and members of my team on this crisis, mental human rights sooner or later Burma and Bangladesh will worsen and and I am happy we can be responsive to engenders security threats to Ameri- increasingly threaten regional sta- their concerns. cans, to our allies, and to our collec- bility and U.S. national security inter- It is important for all Americans to tive interests—think of Tunisia, think ests. understand what is happening in Amer- of Syria, think of the countries of The United States must continue to ica and everything outside our shores. Yemen or Nigeria. There are almost lead. There has to be an international Burma is a country that doesn’t typi- countless examples just in recent his- response in Burma. We need other part- cally capture the imagination or atten- tory where we have seen or are seeing ners to step up and participate in that tion of people in the United States, right now the depravation of basic response, but the United States must but, right now, in light of this humani- human rights. That, in turn, is under- continue to lead. Part of leading comes tarian crisis, it requires all of our at- mining our values and our national in- down to clarity. What do we want of tention. terests. the Burmese Government? I see at

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.031 S25OCPT1 S6798 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 least four things the Burmese Govern- I thank my colleague from Indiana main refugee camps are. International ment must do. for being deeply in this conversation. It aid groups are working to quickly get First, the Burmese Government and is a real pleasure to work on the For- as many resources as they can into this their military must immediately end eign Relations Committee together. area so that people do not starve and its ethnic cleansing campaign against We must address this situation. Ac- so that medical wounds can be ad- the Rohingyas. Second, the Burmese cording to a report from the U.N. High dressed. But there is still a significant Government must address the root of Commissioner for Human Rights, ‘‘gov- lack of food, a lack of clean water, and this conflict by implementing the rec- ernment forces and Buddhist extrem- a lack of sanitary bath and toilet fa- ommendations of a U.N. panel, the so- ists in Burma have carried out ‘a well- cilities. That condition is ripe for called Advisory Commission on organized, coordinated and systematic’ spreading disease—diseases like chol- Rakhine State. Third, the Burmese campaign of human rights violations era. Government must permit safe access against the Muslim Rohingya in When I was home in Oregon, I met for journalists, for humanitarians, and Myanmar’s Rakhine State,’’ with a with a group of Rohingya refugees who for a United Nations fact-finding mis- strategy to ‘‘instill deep and wide- came and settled in Oregon. As we can sion and all of their personnel so we spread fear and trauma—physical, emo- imagine, they have a very personal can figure out precisely what is going tional and psychological—among the connection to what is happening. Some on and who is responsible. Finally, the Rohingya population.’’ This comes of them have distant relatives still Burmese Government must facilitate after the commissioner’s statement there. Some have immediate family the safe and voluntary return of all that this ‘‘security operation,’’ as they members. They don’t know exactly these individuals who have been dis- refer to it, in Burma was ‘‘a textbook what has happened to everyone in the placed. example of ethnic cleansing.’’ middle of this chaos. When I leave the Senate floor today, As we ponder international relations, We also heard about villages that I am scheduled to immediately visit we see from time to time that one didn’t get burned down but where the with Burma’s Ambassador to the group, somewhere in the world, will re- military was blockading people from United States. The points I just men- spond to deep tribal impulses and prej- leaving the village to go to the fields to tioned are points I intend to reiterate udices and seek to wipe out another secure food and blocking them from directly to that Ambassador. group. These are horrific moments in leaving the fields and going back into Moving forward, the United States history, and we have seen this movie— the village, probably responding to should lead efforts to document atroc- this situation—occur time and again. international outrage over villages ities in Burma however we can so the After such atrocities, the world has being burned and essentially resorting perpetrators can be held accountable. I said ‘‘never again’’—‘‘never again,’’ to a strategy of starving out the vil- also support the administration’s an- meaning that we will respond when we lages to drive people away. Imagine nouncement yesterday that it is ex- see this happening. We will apply great being trapped in one of those villages, ploring accountability mechanisms pressure. We will coordinate with the knowing what is happening to village that are already available under U.S. world to make sure it stops, because after village after village, knowing law, including the so-called Global such effort to wipe out another ethnic children have been slaughtered, women Magnitsky targeted sanctions. have been raped and often killed, and I call on countries like China and group is so unacceptable and it is such Russia to support the suspension of all a crime against humanity. men have been shot. The desperation is But here we are, and it is happening international weapons sales to the Bur- enormous. I heard firsthand accounts of condi- mese military. They should not be right now in Burma. It is happening tions of refugees from Reza Uddin, who transferring weapons to this murderous with a Buddhist nation. We normally associate the Buddhist had just returned from a 2-week trip to regime. religion with a main emphasis on visit them. He told powerful and mov- In conclusion, as Senator MERKLEY and I stated in our letter on Friday to peaceful conduct. Yet this tribal im- ing stories about children who had Ambassador Haley, now is the time. pulse—these deep prejudices are so been brutalized, children who had been Now is the time to take bold and effec- powerful that they overcome whatever separated from their parents, children tive actions against the Burmese Gov- peaceful impulse there is, and they who might possibly now be orphans be- ernment to end the violence, not just have resulted in a massive effort to cause it is not clear if their parents are to help the Burmese people but to help wipe out the Rohingya people. In the still alive or, if alive, where they are. stabilize the region and protect U.S. course, there have been a massive num- The world collectively has not done national security interests. Now is the ber of rapes. There have been children enough. The community of nations has time to uphold our fundamental values, killed right in front of their mothers. not done enough to address this un- the values, frankly, of civilized na- There have been villages surrounded by speakable brutality. Bangladesh should tions. Now is the time to work with soldiers and then the village huts set be complimented for accepting these this administration and colleagues on on fire, and then they have been shot refugees fleeing for their lives. They both sides of the aisle to make sure we as they flee. This is about as inhumane have been cooperative. It is a challenge can reach as peaceful and as positive a as it can get. for them, and we should acknowledge resolution to this horrible situation as Something close to 300 villages have that. We should continue to ask them possible. burned to the ground. By some esti- to do everything possible and to give I want to close by once again ac- mates, 3,000 civilians have been killed. the U.N. High Commissioner for Refu- knowledging the tremendous leader- A few weeks ago, we were talking gees and various aid organizations full ship of Senator MERKLEY. I thank him about 400,000 refugees pouring into opportunity, full access, and full au- for his partnership in this effort. Bangladesh. Now, the number is 600,000 thority to be in and assist those in I yield the floor. Rohingya refugees. these refugee camps. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Roughly half the Rohingyas live in The United States, the United King- ator from Oregon. Burma, and those refugees include dom, and the United Nations have con- Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I ap- 300,000 children. Think about the type demned the actions of the Burmese, preciate the comments of my colleague of trauma those children have just ex- and that is certainly appropriate, but and the opportunity for us to work to- perienced and the challenges they will we haven’t done enough. We have not gether to help shine a light on this mo- have regaining a foundation to thrive. taken the steps to which my colleague ment of great atrocities in the world. A Then there are those who are inter- referred to strengthen sanctions or co- great deal of what we are calling for is nally displaced inside of Burma, who ordinate international countries to all for America to do more to shine a light have been driven out of their villages weigh in. The only thing that will on it and for the world to work to- but haven’t been able to make their make a real difference here is pressure gether, not just to shine a light on it way to Bangladesh. This is the chal- on the Burmese military. They are in but to end it and to proceed to have as lenge we face. charge. We can criticize the civilian much healing as can possibly take There is an area of Bangladesh called government in Burma, and many have, place. Cox’s Bazar. That is where these two and they have been unable to stop what

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.033 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6799 is going on and sometimes often reflect from the civilian government in door, he treated them as though they the prejudices that contributed to this, Burma: We will let them come back if were Senators. I also have the flags in but it is the military that makes the they show they are citizens. No. 1, they my office from his Senate office. Every decisions. have never been granted citizenship. day, they are a reminder for me of Paul We had testimony from the State De- No. 2, after a horrific situation like and all that he did for the people of our partment yesterday, and one of the of- this, if they did have papers, they State. ficials used the term ‘‘vigilantes’’ for wouldn’t have papers now. They would Paul and Sheila were always on the what the vigilantes are doing in this have been burned along with the vil- move. They were full of joy. They were oppression. That is not the right term lages. There needs to be a change in at- persistent in their fight against injus- to use. This is not uncoordinated ac- titude, a change of heart among the tices, small and large. During his life- tion. This is action coordinated Burmese civilian leadership, and cer- time as an educator, as an activist, and through the military decision-making tainly among the military, to lead an as a U.S. Senator, Paul Wellstone process. You don’t surround camps, you effort in the peaceful tradition, the touched the lives of people throughout don’t have significant planning that Buddhist tradition, of embracing this Minnesota and across the country. goes into it, and have it just be vigi- diversity and returning these people to That is because his philosophy was lantes. Vigilantes may be involved, but their land. simple. A lot of people, he said, would they are not the driving force. They Former U.N. Secretary General Kofi have people paid to represent them in might be assisting the soldiers in some Annan now serves as chairman of the Washington, but he was going to rep- cases, but this is a coordinated act of Advisory Commission on Rakhine resent the other people. As he said in the military of Burma, and it is impor- State. He and his team have laid out a one of his famous campaign ads, he tant that the community of nations report with very specific actions—ac- wasn’t there to represent the Rocke- convey to the military how unaccept- tions that will help end the cycle of fellers; he was there to represent the able this is and that there will be sig- radicalization and the cycle of vio- ‘‘little fellers.’’ nificant consequences. lence. We need to work to try to make If you go to any local mental health My colleague has referred to the fact sure those things are implemented, to group, they remember Paul. If you go that in this situation no military sales show oppressive governments and the to any Somali event in our State, they should be made to such a military. rest of the world that the world will remember Paul. If you go to any com- That is important, but that takes a not stand—that the world will respond, munity on the Iron Range in Min- conversation among nations, and the and respond aggressively, in a coordi- nesota, they remember Paul—both the United States needs to be deeply en- nated, forceful way when ethnic cleans- man and then what he did. Paul was my friend and mentor. He gaged in this. ing occurs. That is the best deterrent told me that I should run for office, There is a lot of international fund- we could have for future atrocities. and, as he did with so many others, he raising going on. There was a donors Again, I thank my colleague for taught me that politics should have a conference held on Monday to assist being in this dialogue and for his sup- purpose. the refugees. It raised about $200 mil- port to shine this light and to take a lion or a little more in new funds. That He also taught me how to campaign compelling more forceful action. Like on city buses. This is how he would do is about $400 per refugee. That is not him, I look forward to meeting with it. At Nicollet Mall—being from a near- nearly enough to provide for shelter or the Ambassador from Burma later by State, the Presiding Officer is aware care in a situation with complete lack today. of Nicollet Mall in the city of Min- of access to fields or farming or sup- I suggest the absence of a quorum. neapolis. We would get on a city bus at port. It is going to take more than The PRESIDING OFFICER. The one end of the mall, and we would work that. We should be involved in working clerk will call the roll. it as though we had just got on the bus: with the United Nations, UNICEF, The senior assistant legislative clerk Meet everyone on the bus, go to the World Health, UNHCR, or the U.N. proceeded to call the roll. end, get off, and then get on another High Commissioner for Refugees, and Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order bus going the other way and meet a the World Food Program to step up and whole group of people. I have no idea assist. I certainly believe it would be for the quorum call be rescinded. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. what the busdrivers thought after an very helpful to have President Trump hour of this, but that is what we did. ROUNDS). Without objection, it is so or- take this issue on and speak from the Paul Wellstone worked it bus by bus, dered. heart of our Nation to this dark and block by block, precinct by precinct, evil deed that is happening—that we REMEMBERING PAUL AND SHEILA WELLSTONE and he made a lasting impression on reject it and we will partner with the Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I people in a way that made them believe rest of the world to end it. wish to speak this afternoon to honor and know that getting involved in poli- I do feel that there is a history in the memory of Paul and Sheila tics could make a real difference in which we have helped lead nations in Wellstone. Today marks 15 years since their lives. He had an unending sense of these situations. We haven’t always we lost Paul and Sheila, their daughter optimism—optimism that maybe peo- been there. I know that President Clin- Marcia, and staff members Tom Lapic, ple he didn’t agree with in this Cham- ton said that the biggest regret of his Mary McEvoy, and Will McLaughlin. ber would eventually change their administration is that he didn’t re- Because Paul was such a memorable views. spond quickly in Central Africa when and incredible person, it is hard to be- He made a lot of friends here, on both the Tutsis and Hutus went to battle lieve that it has been 15 years since we the Democratic and Republican sides of against each other, slaughtering each lost all of them. the aisle. That was the message Paul other with machetes. This is a chance For me, as for so many Minnesotans, took to new citizens, new voters, and for us to really respond—to respond ag- it is impossible to forget the moment everyone looking to get involved. He gressively, to have that moral clarity, that we first heard about their plane told them that working in public serv- and to exercise that leadership in the going down. It is impossible to forget ice can make a difference, and he world. I join my colleague in calling the wait to get the final news that showed them through his actions. for such action for more assistance, there were no survivors. That is how He had many passions. He fought for with the aid to both Burma and Ban- much Paul and Sheila meant to the everything from campaign finance re- gladesh, for the moral clarity to take people of our State. form to improving our rural economies. action that pressures the Burmese I get my own special reminders every He fought against veteran homeless- military in a significant and compel- day. First, I get a reminder from the ness, to protect the environment, and, ling way and to provide assistance in employees at the Capitol who were of course, he fought for the rights of the right of return—the ability of these around when Paul graced these hall- workers. individuals to be able to return to their ways. They remember him because he He truly believed, as he famously villages. treated everyone with dignity. Whether said, that ‘‘we all do better when we all Traditionally, this group has been de- it was the tram operator, the elevator do better’’ and that politics is simply nied citizenship. Early on, we heard operator, or the police at the front about improving people’s lives.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.035 S25OCPT1 S6800 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 Anyone who ever met or talked with Paul. Sheila and I had been asked to Over the last few months, commu- Paul found out that he had a special speak to a group of new citizens, immi- nities around the country have been passion for helping those struggling grants from Russia. It was a very small devastated by natural disasters. We with mental illness. That was shaped group, and we were there to talk about have had terrible hurricanes in Texas, by his own family. As a young child, our own immigrant experiences, our Florida, Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Vir- Paul watched his brother Steven’s own relatives. I remember she talked gin Islands, as well as tragic wildfires traumatic descent into mental illness. about her relatives in Appalachia, and across the West. These communities In college, his brother suffered a severe I talked about my relatives on the Iron need immediate help, and that is why mental breakdown and spent the next 2 Range coming over from Slovenia. The the disaster supplemental appropria- years in hospitals. Eventually, he re- event was winding down. It was a tions bill we passed yesterday is so im- covered and graduated from college small, small event in a synagogue with portant. I am glad this bill provides with honors, but it took his immigrant these new immigrants, and, all of a nearly $19 billion to replenish FEMA’s parents years to pay off the hospital sudden, a big surprise—in walked Paul. emergency disaster accounts that help bills. He wasn’t supposed to be there. It was communities start to rebuild, but it is Paul would always talk about how, just a few weeks, a month away, from just a downpayment. As we know, it when he grew up, his house was dark one of the biggest elections he had ever will take a lot more Federal assistance. because no one wanted to talk about faced in the U.S. Senate. But he had One thing we need to focus on is the mental illness back then because it had gotten on an early flight and had come electric grid. Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, so much stigma. He wanted to get it home from Washington. There he was— and Maria demonstrated the risks the out in the sunlight. He knew that there he and a group of immigrants and us— electric grid faces from extreme weath- were far too many families going with no press, no TVs, not even a big er. The communities hardest hit in through the same experience, too many crowd, all just a few weeks before his Texas and Florida underwent days— devastated by the physical and finan- election. sometimes much longer—without any cial consequences of mental illness. He He came for two reasons. He loved power, and when this happens, it is a knew that we could and we should do Sheila, and he wanted to be there to serious risk to the safety and health of better. For years as a Senator, he support her. But he was also there be- everyone in the area. fought for funding for better care, bet- cause he loved the immigrant experi- Now, American citizens in Puerto ter services, and better representation ence. He embraced it. His family, like Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands are for the mentally ill, and he fought for so many Minnesota families, was an ex- facing a major humanitarian crisis, mental health parity in health insur- ample of how you can come to Amer- and the Federal Government needs to ance coverage. ica, succeed in America, and then, in do everything it can to assist. Even years after his death, Paul’s turn, help America succeed. More than a month after Hurricane voice was heard loud and clear. Con- That is my last memory of Paul as he Maria hit, only 25 percent of Puerto gressman Ramstad from Minnesota, a stood before those immigrants, telling Rico has access to electricity, and it Republican Congressman at the time, about his own story, embracing them. I will take many months to get power took up the cause in the House. I will remember him in that way, but I back to those communities. That is helped. Ted Kennedy led the way and, will also remember the joy he felt for completely unacceptable. Without elec- of course, Pete Domenici, who had politics, how he would run around that tricity, pumping stations can’t supply paired up with Paul on this important green bus of his, with people running drinking water to households. In fact, bill. alongside him on the parade routes. 25 percent of the island still lacks ac- Finally, in 2008, we passed the Paul In the last year of his life, he told the cess to potable water. Without elec- Wellstone and Pete Domenici Mental public he had MS, and he couldn’t run tricity, wastewater treatment facili- Health Parity and Addiction Equity like that anymore. So he would stand ties can’t operate, which means raw Act. The bill requires insurance compa- in the back of the bus with Sheila and sewage is contaminating rivers and nies to treat mental health on an equal wave. What was so amazing about it streams. Without electricity, cell tow- basis with physical illness. For Paul, was that he had energized so many peo- ers cease to function, making commu- this fight was always a matter of civil ple in those green Wellstone shirts to nication with first responders difficult. rights, of justice, and of basic human run around that bus that you didn’t Without a stable electric grid, hos- decency, and that landmark legislation even notice he wasn’t running. He had is one fitting way we honor him. pitals have to rely on backup power to given them the energy and the hope to keep lifesaving equipment working. Sheila, of course, also dedicated her- carry on his work, and they were doing self to helping others, especially sur- That backup power is often diesel gen- it for him. erators that require fuel, which is in vivors of violence. I had the oppor- Now, 15 years after we lost Paul and short supply. tunity to work closely with Sheila Sheila, it is our job to carry on and run when I served for 8 years as Hennepin Given the dire situation, it is no sur- around that bus. That is organizing, prise that we have already seen tens of County Attorney. She focused on do- that is politics, and that is the gift of mestic violence and was instrumental thousands of Puerto Ricans leave the joy in improving people’s lives that island, with nearly 60,000 arriving in in creating and getting the funding for Paul, Sheila, Marcia, and those other the Hennepin County Domestic Abuse Florida alone. beloved staff members left for us. The majority of the transmission and Center. That center is an international Thank you. distribution lines were destroyed in model for serving victims of domestic I yield the floor. violence by bringing together a full I suggest the absence of a quorum. Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Is- range of services and resources in one The PRESIDING OFFICER. The lands. We need to rebuild them, and I central location. Victims of domestic clerk will call the roll. think we can all agree they should be violence don’t have to go through the The assistant bill clerk proceeded to rebuilt to withstand the next disaster. redtape that would be difficult even for call the roll. So let’s rebuild the electric grid in a a lawyer to figure out. Mr. FRANKEN. Mr. President, I ask more resilient and sustainable way Of course, one of Paul’s greatest leg- unanimous consent that the order for that reduces future threats and future islative achievements was the work he the quorum call be rescinded. costs. I have been talking with my Re- did, along with Vice President Biden The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. publican colleagues and members of and others, to pass the original Vio- STRANGE). Without objection, it is so the administration, and everyone lence Against Women Act. It was a ordered. agrees this is a good idea. That is why team effort, and Sheila was right there PUERTO RICO AND U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS I want to work with my colleagues on on the frontlines with Paul. RECOVERY EFFORT both sides of the aisle to include lan- Together, they accomplished so Mr. FRANKEN. Mr. President, I rise guage in the next supplemental dis- much. Their commitment to others to talk about the devastation in Puerto aster aid package that does exactly never wavered, and neither did they. Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands and this. It was just a few weeks before that the need to rebuild the electric grid in I am talking about investing in a tragic crash that I last saw Sheila and a more resilient and sustainable way. more modern and more decentralized

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.036 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6801 grid so that not everyone is relying on with the special interests of the fossil links. ‘‘About 15 mentions of the words a handful of powerplants that can go fuel industry. climate change have been removed down. Decentralized energy resources There is a word for that. It is called from the main page alone. . . .’’ operating in microgrids are more like- corruption, at least as the Founding It is not just at EPA. Here is today’s ly to remain functioning during and Fathers knew the meaning of that exclusive headline: ‘‘The Interior De- after storms. There are many instances term. It starts at the top. Trump partment scrubs climate change from of distributed energy keeping impor- named Scott Pruitt head of the EPA. its strategic plan.’’ I mean, they act as tant facilities online after natural dis- Pruitt has a long record of dark money if this is the Soviet Union and the gov- asters, including the Texas Medical fundraising and long, cozy relation- ernment is allowed to tell scientists Center, which is the largest medical ships with Big Energy industry polit- what they can say and not say and put complex in the world, which has a com- ical donors. In effect, he is a tentacle of phony propaganda onto official bined heat and power plant that kept the fossil fuel climate denial operation, websites and keep scientists from going running during Hurricane Harvey. That wiggling and wriggling in the Adminis- to meetings because they might actu- is because during extreme weather, trator’s chair, near his new $25,000 ally tell the truth about climate these technologies can go into island ‘‘cone of silence’’ secret communica- change. mode or operate independent of the tions booth that he built so no one I am the son and grandson of Foreign grid. would hear him checking in with his Service officers. I grew up serving in Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands masters. countries that did that, where the gov- have some of the highest electricity Results are as expected. The New ernment could tell the scientist: No, prices in the United States, and that is York Times has reported: ‘‘How you don’t say that. No, you don’t go because they rely on oil, coal, and gas Rollbacks at Scott Pruitt’s EPA are a there. No, this is the party line. I never that must be shipped from the main- Boon to Oil and Gas.’’ No surprise. In thought that would happen in the land. While these islands do not have the 4 months that followed his appoint- United States of America—and here we fossil fuels, do you know what they do ment, Pruitt moved to undo, delay, or are. have? Lots of Sun. And the rapidly de- otherwise block more than 30 environ- To aid Pruitt in his fossil fuel indus- clining costs of distributed clean en- mental rules benefiting his fossil fuel try crusade, our President has nomi- ergy technologies such as solar, wind, friends. This regulatory rollback, larg- nated a parade of fossil fuel lackeys, energy efficiency, and battery storage, er in scope than any over so short a lobbyists, and operatives whose main in many instances make them more af- time in the Agency’s near-half century qualification seems to be allegiance to fordable than existing power genera- history, went straight into the pockets their corporate clients and benefactors. tion, which means these clean energy of the fossil fuel industry. It is not just the fossil fuel industry technologies could help reduce prices. Longtime Pruitt benefactor Devon that gets their hacks planted in gov- These investments will also save Energy is cashing in dividends on its ernment offices. money in the long run. In 2005, the Na- investment in Scott Pruitt’s political Do you remember in the ‘‘Cat in the tional Institute of Building Sciences career, as Pruitt is working to elimi- Hat,’’ where they had Thing One and completed a study for FEMA that nate rules on the leaking and flaring of Thing Two running around? Let’s look found that every dollar invested in dis- methane, and has rescinded require- at Hack One and Hack Two, who just aster preparedness and resilience saves ments for reporting methane emis- cleared committee today in the Pruitt $4 in future avoided losses. We know we sions. Devon, as you may recall, is that ‘‘EPA for Sale’’ roster. are going to see more hurricanes and company whose letter to the EPA Pru- Hack One is a toxicologist who extreme weather events, so let’s re- itt put on his own Oklahoma attorney consults for major chemical corpora- build in such a way that impacts are general letterhead to mask Devon’s tions and has spent the better part of not as severe the next time around. hand and submit their work as his own his professional life fighting regulation Let’s protect people and save taxpayer official work as attorney general of his of potentially toxic compounds in con- money. State. sumer goods. His name is Michael That is my message: Let’s protect So this hand-in-glove relationship be- Dourson. President Trump nominated people, and let’s all save taxpayer tween Devon as the hand and Pruitt as him to run the EPA Office of Chemical money and do the thing that makes the glove goes back a long way. The Safety and Pollution Prevention. A sense. EPA has career scientists and legal ex- lobbying group for sellers of pesticides, Thank you. perts who bring decades of experience fungicides, and rodenticides called I suggest the absence of a quorum. in environmental law and science to Dourson ‘‘a perfect fit’’ for the job—the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the EPA who are all being cut out as perfect industry hack for that job, clerk will call the roll. the Administrator takes drastic steps more like. The senior assistant legislative clerk to undo environmental protections. Hack Two is William Wehrum, nomi- proceeded to call the roll. Just this week, EPA scientists were nated to run the EPA Office of Air and Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, I yanked from a conference in Rhode Is- Radiation. Wehrum is a lobbyist who ask unanimous consent that the order land where they were going to talk has represented a host of major indus- for the quorum call be rescinded. about climate change. The matter of trial and energy corporations, and the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without climate change on Narragansett Bay in Rubber Manufacturers Association, the objection, it is so ordered. Rhode Island is pretty significant. This American Forest and Paper Associa- CLIMATE CHANGE is the day’s Providence Journal, our tion, and the American Petroleum In- Mr. WHITEHOUSE. Mr. President, it leading newspaper in Rhode Island. stitute. President George W. Bush ac- is nice to see the distinguished Senator Headline: ‘‘Will climate change negate tually nominated this guy to the same in the chair presiding. I am not sure, in Bay cleanup?’’ It has a big map of Nar- post in 2006, but the White House with- my 183 ‘‘Time to Wake Up’’ speeches, I ragansett Bay with all the facilities at drew his nomination because it was so have yet had the pleasure of speaking risk of being flooded and overwhelmed. controversial. while the Senator was presiding. It is front page news. Well, that was 2006. That was before I am here to once again call for us to It is a matter of extreme importance Citizens United. That was before that wake up to the corporate capture of in Rhode Island, and EPA yanked out decision amped up industry power to Congress and this administration—the its scientists. They weren’t allowed to the point where it can now ram capture of governance by the fossil fuel come down and talk at an event where through conflicted and objectionable industry that keeps us from honestly they were going to talk about climate candidates with—as happened this addressing climate change. There is a change. It is not just yanking the sci- morning—unanimous Republican sup- saying that ‘‘personnel is policy.’’ Well, entists. Here is a New York Times arti- port. Not one Republican Senator on the Trump personnel for positions at cle by Lisa Friedman from October 20. the committee would voice an objec- the Environmental Protection Agency Headline: ‘‘EPA scrubs a climate tion. reflect a policy to undo the public wel- website of ‘climate change.’ ’’ An EPA When Senators asked questions for fare mission of the Agency and align it website has been scrubbed of scores of the record in the Environment and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.039 S25OCPT1 S6802 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 Public Works Committee nomination of what we can expect from him if con- Congress. So good luck getting an hon- hearing on Wehrum and Dourson, these firmed. His predictable dodging falls in est look at this mess through congres- captured nominees played dumb about lockstep with Administrator Pruitt, sional oversight. the central issues and programs they who has stated he does ‘‘not agree that Over and over, appalling nominees will oversee if confirmed. [carbon dioxide] is a primary contrib- get through confirmation with no Re- For instance, I asked Dourson if he utor to the global warming that we publican dissent, more ‘‘see no evil.’’ It agreed that ‘‘the tobacco industry ma- see.’’ That puts him in a very small cir- is just wrong. nipulated and obfuscated scientific re- cle of people, every one of whom I For now, the American public will search into the dangers of smoking for think is connected by money to the pay the price of dismantling these reg- decades.’’ Dourson, who conducted sci- fossil fuel industry. ulatory safeguards. They will pay the entific studies designed, reviewed, and I asked Mr. Wehrum what he believes price in poisonings and carcinogenic paid for by the tobacco industry and is a healthy standard for ozone. Now, exposures, in rising seas and raging whose name is all over, in hundreds of bear in mind that one of the goals of wildfires, in childhood asthma and places, the discovery records of the to- the Clean Air Act is to set national northbound tropical diseases. Mark my bacco industry’s denial operation, re- ambient air quality standards for words, one day there will be a reck- plied: ‘‘I do not have firsthand knowl- ozone, that the office to which he is oning for all of this. edge to comment.’’ nominated oversees this ozone stand- When captured EPA officials put pay- I ‘‘do not have firsthand knowledge ard, and that the EPA has had ozone back to their donors first and clean air to comment’’? This is the President’s standards in place since 1971, more and public health a way distant second, selection to run the office that protects than 45 years. it stinks. It is crooked by any reason- Americans from dangerous chemicals In response to my question, Wehrum able definition of the term. It is cor- who doesn’t know the tobacco indus- answered: ‘‘I am not familiar with the rupt in exactly the way the Founding try’s history of falsifying science? current science on the health effects of Fathers understood corruption. The fossil fuel industry will one day Please. He worked for them. He was ozone, so I cannot comment on your be held to account for this binge of cor- part of it. question as to the appropriate level of ruption and manipulation. ExxonMobil, Remember that the tobacco industry the standard.’’ Really? was taken to court by the U.S. Depart- I asked Wehrum whether he agreed Koch Industries, Arch Coal, Murray Coal, Peabody Coal, you own this just ment of Justice—back when the De- with EPA’s 2009 finding that the cur- as the Republican Party does. partment of Justice would take an in- rent and projected concentrations of I yield the floor. dustry to court—and the Department greenhouse gases in the atmosphere The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- of Justice won a judgment declaring threaten the public health and welfare ator from Colorado. that tobacco had engaged in a fraud of current and future generations. I HEALTHCARE conspiracy to deny tobacco’s harms. asked if he would commit not to nar- Mr. GARDNER. Mr. President, I Dourson sees no evil. He knows noth- row or weaken the EPA’s come to the floor this afternoon to talk ing. endangerment finding. Wehrum wrote about the Healthcare Tax Relief Act, I asked him whether he believes that back that he had not read the legislation I introduced to delay the hydrofluorocarbons are greenhouse endangerment finding or the record health insurance tax that was created gases and about the global warming po- prepared in support of the finding; by the Affordable Care Act. tential of methane. His response: I am therefore, he said: ‘‘I currently do not This tax is often referred to as the not sufficiently familiar with the defi- have a view.’’ I currently do not have a HIT tax. The HIT tax imposes fees on nition of greenhouse gases and do not view? That is funny. health insurance coverage to con- have the expertise to answer these I bet he had a view when he was sumers. It is a pretty simple business questions. being paid by the Rubber Manufactur- concept that this HIT tax results in. If He is not familiar with the definition ers Association, the American Forest & a fee increases on an insurance policy of greenhouse gases? This is basic high Paper Association, and the American and the fee goes up—there is a fee school science. Every one of us has a Petroleum Institute. I guess it was the charged to the company that issues home State university that teaches miraculous, evaporating view. this insurance policy—then that fee this stuff. This has been science for Maybe these ‘‘see no evil’’ nominees, gets passed on to the consumer. It is more than 100 years. Dourson and Wehrum, don’t know the the consumer, then, who pays the fee On to Hack Two, Bill Wehrum. When basics of the problems they would con- in the form of higher health insurance I asked Wehrum about carbon dioxide’s front. Maybe they just don’t know, but costs. role in the observable effects of climate let’s not be fooled here. Polluters have As is the case with most excise taxes, change, he replied: ‘‘The degree to paid these nominees well for their serv- whether it is an excise tax on food or which manmade greenhouse gas emis- ices over the years. They were expert beverage or any other item of personal sions are contributing to climate enough to be hired by industry groups good, if this health insurance tax takes change has not been conclusively de- as lobbyists and consultants. We know effect, costs will be passed on to con- termined.’’ This claim just doesn’t where their allegiances lie. We know sumers directly in the form of higher match the scientific record. who has been paying them. We know premiums. That is confirmed by the The EPA—the very Agency to which whom they will serve. Congressional Budget Office. Mr. Wehrum is nominated, along with A preview of coming attractions, This is one of the cost drivers that NOAA—states that ‘‘carbon dioxide is coming up before the EPW soon is An- was built into the Affordable Care Act. the primary greenhouse gas that is drew Wheeler, Trump’s nominee for the This health insurance tax would di- contributing to recent climate EPA’s second in command. Wheeler rectly increase the premiums of the change.’’ This consensus is held by pub- was a top lobbyist for the coal mining consumer’s insurance product. This tax lished climate scientists, by scientific behemoth, Murray Energy. Not only was supposed to begin a few years back agencies and societies, by all of our Na- did this company support Trump’s in 2014. It was going to start at $8 bil- tional Laboratories, and by univer- campaign and provide $300,000 to help lion, and by 2018 the tax would reach sities in America and around the globe. pay for his inauguration, Murray En- $14.3 billion. However, Congress recog- As I said, every one of us in this ergy has also donated to Pruitt-affili- nized that this tax was going to have a room—I haven’t found an exception ated political action committees to the significant impact on the price of cov- yet, and I have looked, but I expect tune of hundreds of thousands of dol- erage and, as a result, suspended the every Senator has a home State uni- lars. I can’t wait to hear his answers on tax from taking effect in 2017. Without versity that doesn’t just know this to the role of coal in climate change, congressional action to delay or stop or be true, but it teaches it in its cur- childhood asthma, and mercury poi- prevent this ObamaCare tax from tak- riculum. But Hack Two sees no evil. He soning. ing place again, this tax will take ef- knows nothing. The sad part of all of this is, the pol- fect in 2018. Wehrum’s disregard for well-estab- luting interests that own these nomi- According to nonpartisan actuarial lished science provides a grim preview nees also throw their weight around in analysis conducted by Oliver Wyman,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.042 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6803 an estimated 157 million Americans speak, of the Affordable Care Act. At a sity’s enduring legacy as a center for will be affected by this massive tax. time when we know that almost half of scientific research and discovery. Even more middle-income earners Americans could not shoulder a $400 The university has paved the way for across this country, 157 million Ameri- emergency expense, it would simply be future innovation with many firsts cans and working Americans, are ex- irresponsible to allow this ObamaCare throughout the 19th and 20th centuries. pected to shoulder the weight of this HIT tax to take effect. It was the first university with a chem- tax. Furthermore, the impacts of this tax ical laboratory, the first to own and Oliver Wyman estimated that pre- touch our seniors who have earned operate a hospital, the first to teach miums will rise by 3 percent in each their benefits as well. For seniors en- aeronautical engineering, the first pub- year; 2018, 2019, and 2020. That is 3 per- rolled in Medicare Advantage plans— lic university with dental and phar- cent each year. That is 9 percent over and Medicare Advantage is one of the macy schools, and the first with a pro- 3 years. most popular aspects of Medicare—pre- gram in human genetics. Perhaps the To put this in simple perspective, in miums are expected to rise by roughly most game-changing first—it was the Colorado alone, premiums in the indi- $370 a year per enrollee if Congress first large State university to open its vidual market rose by 34 percent from doesn’t find a resolution. In many doors to both men and women. plan year 2017 to plan year 2018. Adding cases, these are fixed-income individ- Today, faculty and students continue an additional 3 percent every year for uals who would see their premiums in- to reach new firsts by answering im- those 3 years would leave those on the crease $370 a year because of the portant research questions that will af- individual market paying nearly 43.3 ObamaCare HIT tax. fect future generations. Take, for in- percent, on average, more year to year In addition, seniors enrolled in Medi- stance, how the university has laid the if combined with the 2018 increases at care Part D prescription drug plans can groundwork for breakthroughs in the end of that 3-year, 9-percent in- expect their premiums to increase as American mobility. crease run. well. Hit them on their Medicare plans In 2015, Mcity, a public-private part- What is more, according to the De- and hit them on the prescription drug nership led by the University of Michi- partment of Health and Human Serv- plans—higher costs due to this gan, became the world’s first con- ices, the average individual market ObamaCare HIT tax. trolled environment designed to test premiums have increased by 105 per- Even more, the impacts of the health connected and automated vehicle tech- cent from 2013 to 2017. Think about insurance tax have large-scale con- nologies. The 32-acre simulated urban that. When the Affordable Care Act sequences in the workplace as well. A and suburban landscape is designed to passed, when ObamaCare was passed, a study by the National Federation of support rigorous, repeatable testing of promise was made that the average Independent Business found that allow- self-driving car technologies before family would see a decrease in their ing the HIT tax to take effect could re- they are tested on public roads and healthcare costs of $2,500 per family, sult in job losses for as many as 283,000 highways. This hub of innovation re- but, instead, from 2013 to 2017, they saw people by 2023. This tax could have the flects our State’s legacy as the heart of a 105-percent increase in costs. If the impact of costing 286,000 jobs by 2023. the American auto industry and will health insurance tax takes effect, as Research and analysis from our most help lead our country into the next era planned by ObamaCare, then we would respected actuaries continue to vali- of transportation. see another 9-percent increase over the date the negative consequences of the A similar nexus between our past and next several years on top of that. health insurance tax. future is true across nearly every dis- Without congressional action to On behalf of all hard-working Ameri- cipline that U of M’s research touch- delay this tax, estimates show that cans, I call upon my colleagues in the es—engineering, medicine, social costs will rise between $200 and $300 an- Senate to join me in cosponsoring this sciences, humanities, and more. Stu- nually for individuals and $500 annu- commonsense piece of legislation, the dents and faculty are developing new ally for families. That is a $200 to $300 Healthcare Tax Relief Act. Healthcare cancer treatments, creating energy-ef- increase for individuals and a $500 in- plans are being finalized right now for ficient batteries, engaging in cutting- crease annually for families. the 2018 rate year, and it is urgent for edge environmental science to protect To put that into some perspective, 25 Congress to take action so that con- the Great Lakes, and building proto- percent of Americans don’t have ac- sumers are not saddled with yet one types of engines to take us to Mars. cess—emergency access—to $100. In an more cost that they can’t afford. That is just to name a few. emergency, 25 percent of Americans Mr. President, I yield the floor. Tied with the University of Michi- don’t have immediate access to $100. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- gan’s drive to pursue knowledge is its Yet here we are talking about a man- ator from Michigan. drive to put that knowledge into action dated law—you have to have insurance RECOGNIZING THE UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN’S for the greater good. At its core, the coverage under the Affordable Care BICENTENNIAL university’s mission is to serve society. Act—but this law would then increase Mr. PETERS. Mr. President, I rise This has been demonstrated by its his- costs $200 to $300 on an individual and today to recognize the bicentennial of tory of activism and civic engagement. $500 annually for families. the University of Michigan. The uni- The university commemorates one Statistics from the Federal Reserve versity has adopted the motto ‘‘Always such event that occurred on October 14, show how much of a hardship this Leading, Forever Valiant’’ for its bi- 1960. Senator John F. Kennedy, whose would create. The Federal Reserve centennial year—a motto that captures former desk is just a few feet in front found that 46 percent of Americans did its 200 years at the forefront of Amer- of me here today, delivered an un- not have enough money to cover a $400 ican academic excellence. planned speech on the steps of the emergency expense. Yet the The genesis of the University of Michigan Union at 2 a.m. He chal- ObamaCare HIT tax would increase Michigan predates the founding of my lenged University of Michigan students family insurance costs by $500. Forty- home State of Michigan. to work abroad in developing nations six percent of Americans don’t have ac- On August 26, 1817, Lewis Cass, Gov- in an effort to promote peace. These recess to $400 in an emergency. Yet the ernor of the Michigan territory, en- marks laid the blueprint for the U.S. ObamaCare HIT tax would increase it acted a charter to create the Univer- Peace Corps, which was established in by $500. sity of Michigania, aligned with terri- 1961. This tax has the potential to push tory judge Augustus Woodward’s envi- The University of Michigan con- over half of Americans into financial sioned System of Universal Science. tinues to have a truly global reach. It ruin, and it would be negligent for Con- In 1852, the university’s first presi- provides a world-class education to a gress to allow this tax to take effect. dent, Henry Philip Tappan, pioneered a diverse student body of 63,000 students The financial threat this tax imposes model of higher education in which on its Ann Arbor, Dearborn, and Flint on hard-working families is a far cry scholars do not settle for existing campuses, educating instate, out-of- from that bold promise that was made knowledge but actively pursue new state, and international students alike. to reduce costs by $2,500 per family— knowledge through rigorous science. They are drawn to the university’s one of the biggest Pinocchios, so to This approach solidified the univer- unfaltering endeavor to expand our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:47 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.043 S25OCPT1 S6804 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 base of knowledge and empower indi- through, all in an attempt to break She said: viduals to leave a lasting and positive down the stigma of addiction, push for By the time our worst fears were con- impact on the world around them. solutions, and hope that they can help firmed, he was using heroin, we basically With more than 572,000 living alum- others by making their voices heard. lost the soul of our son. ni—including my daughter Madeline, Earlier this year, Greg and Linda of Greg’s last few years were filled with who just graduated this past May—the Derry, NH, reached out to my office to back-and-forths. He had overdosed, his University of Michigan has one of the share the story of their son, who was brother finding him in the bathroom of largest alumni networks, full of art- also named Greg. They wrote to say: their home. Tired of being dependent ists, astronauts, business and govern- If you were to put a name and face to this on heroin, he sought help, signing up ment leaders, entrepreneurs, and hu- disease, it would be that of the devil. Let’s for a methadone clinic, entering rehab, manitarians, as well as Nobel laureates change that. Let’s put a face of hope and hu- and giving his parents hope that he in economics, medicine, and science. manity to the disease of addiction. If by doing so, even if just one life is saved, it is would make progress. The University of Michigan’s many worth it. Unfortunately, he started to use illustrious alumni include U.S. Presi- I would like to share some of Greg’s again but was getting ready to enter a dent Gerald R. Ford, Swedish diplomat story today. Greg was born on Novem- drug court program. After joining his and humanitarian Raoul Wallenberg, ber 16, 1985. He and his younger brother family on a vacation to visit an ailing Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Ar- Neil were raised in a caring and loving relative, he decided to clean up his act, thur Miller, actor James Earl Jones, home, where their parents did their going to the gym and eating right. civil rights leader Mary Frances Berry, best to teach them right from wrong, Tragically, though, his mom wrote: Google cofounder Larry Page, and au- stressing the importance of being con- This was short lived however, as the demon thor and scholar Robin Wright. Many snuck into his room and stole him from us. siderate, polite, and kind. more alumni will follow in these foot- All he left for us was a lifeless body on the When Greg was 15, his parents moved floor behind a locked door. steps. They share a drive to make what to Derry, where he attended Pinkerton is affectionately known as the Michi- Academy and graduated with honors in Greg’s death and his heartbreaking gan Difference and, of course, cheer for 2004. During his senior year, like so story is the story of far too many peo- the Maize and Blue. many other students his age, he apple in New Hampshire and across the I would like to congratulate the Uni- plied for college, eventually deciding country, of people with dreams, hopes, versity of Michigan on its bicentennial on Keene State College, pursuing a and aspirations, whose lives are cut as we look forward to a future driven major in biochemistry. He had a dream short as a result of this illness. Greg by Michigan innovation. of becoming a physician. wanted to be a doctor. He wanted to be With that, I will close with some- He excelled academically, but his a husband and a father. He loved dogs thing very simple: ‘‘Go Blue!’’ mom Linda said that during his transi- and video games, and he loved to watch Mr. President, I yield the floor. tion between his freshman and sopho- Patriots games on Sunday with his I suggest the absence of a quorum. more year, something began to appear mom, his dad, and his brother. As his The PRESIDING OFFICER. The off. She wrote: mom put it: clerk will call the roll. Brilliant and head strong, he was to be The bill clerk proceeded to call the I saw firsthand that something was off about him. He was very quiet and withdrawn. reckoned with, and as his parents, we will roll. He was showing obvious signs of depression never stop trying, on his behalf, to see that Ms. HASSAN. Mr. President, I ask which runs in both sides of the family. there is an end to this epidemic. unanimous consent that the order for Even as his depression progressed, His parents wanted to make clear the quorum call be rescinded. Greg battled through. He graduated that his substance use disorder really The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. cum laude with a bachelor’s degree in grew as a result of the opioid he was GARDNER). Without objection, it is so biochemistry. After graduating and prescribed following surgery, a pain- ordered. moving back home, his parents urged killer that was originally manufac- OPIOID EPIDEMIC him to seek help, but Greg held back. tured for terminally ill patients. They Ms. HASSAN. Mr. President, I rise During this time, he had an outpatient believe that pharmaceutical companies today to discuss an issue that is dev- surgery, after which he was prescribed marketed this drug at the expense of astating families and communities in an opioid-based painkiller. His mom their son, saying: ‘‘Given to ease pain my home State of New Hampshire and said that after he was prescribed that and suffering, ironically, it has caused across the United States: the fentanyl, opioid, he went from bad to worse. irreparable pain, suffering, and death.’’ heroin, and opioid crisis. This crisis is Eventually Greg sought help. He saw We can never thank families who the most pressing public and safety a physician and was prescribed an anti- have lost loved ones enough for speak- challenge that New Hampshire faces. It depressant. His mom said he seemed to ing out about this issue and for work- does not discriminate. It affects people be coming back around; he seemed ing tirelessly and courageously to try in every community and from every happier. He took steps to advance his to prevent others from suffering as walk of life. career, hoping to find a job with his they have. Nor can we forget to thank In 2016 alone, 485 people in New biochemistry degree that would offer law enforcement and first responders Hampshire lost their lives as a result of him a reimbursement on tuition so who are on the frontlines of this epi- this epidemic. The rising use of syn- that he could continue to pursue a ca- demic. thetic drugs like fentanyl is making reer in medicine. Though the job mar- I want to make a special mention of matters worse, killing people faster ket was tough, his mom said: Greg’s father, Greg senior, who is a with smaller amounts. Last year, 72 Hands down, I have to say that one of the firefighter in Nashua, witnessing as a percent of drug-related deaths in New happiest days of my life was when he finally first responder every day the havoc Hampshire involved fentanyl. Behind got a decent job. . . . The dark cloud was that this crisis wreaks on other fami- those numbers are real people—moms lifted—temporarily. lies and living with the reality of his and dads, sons and daughters who are Unfortunately, Greg eventually lost own family’s loss too. dying. Their loss reverberates in pain that job, and then things spiraled out Greg’s mom said that at the moment and suffering for the family and friends of control. His mom wrote: of his death, she vowed that she would whom they have left behind. The years following were a nightmare to ensure that his life would not be in The people of my State have a long- remember. Just imagine a loved one slowly vain. His family reached out because standing tradition of sharing their sto- losing all sense of themselves. Legal trouble, they wanted to make a difference. I am ries and their priorities with their bouncing from one job to the next, losing his grateful for their efforts to do this be- elected officials who represent them. license more than once while we drove him cause they do, in fact, have the ability Everywhere I go, I hear stories from back and forth from jobs—some an hour to make change. away. those families and friends of people A restraining order here, a night in jail Speaking up helps break down the who have been affected by this crisis. there. Debts that weren’t getting paid. Fits stigma that prevents too many from Granite Staters are stepping forward of rage, fights, a lack of interest in family, seeking help and prevents too many and explaining what they have gone friends, and basic hygiene. others from offering it. It provides a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.044 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6805 voice to the voiceless, making those The days continue to tick by—24, 25. may have to decrease enrollment, turn- who have died more than just a sta- Tomorrow Members of Congress will ing away sick little kids who qualify tistic. It gives us a perspective from leave for the weekend, 26 days past the for coverage but don’t make it through which we can learn, and it pushes us to deadline, and still there will be no vote the door on time. They could start take action. to fund this critical program. kicking kids off of their insurance say- While thanking these families for Senator Ted Kennedy and Senator ing: Sorry, we just can’t help anymore. their bravery is appropriate, it is sim- ORRIN HATCH, a Democrat and Repub- Or they could be forced to make tough ply not enough. Their bravery and lican, wrote this legislation together calls on benefits: We can’t cover the their struggle must be marked by con- back in the late 1990s. The Children’s wheelchair you need to get around. stant vigilance and urgent action. We Health Insurance Program, also called There is no physical therapy or no pre- must continue to focus on an ‘‘all CHIP, provides health insurance to natal care until the funding comes hands on deck’’ approach at all levels low-income children and to pregnant through again. of government and with those on the women. Senator Kennedy and Senator That is just flat out immoral. Tax frontlines in order to make progress, HATCH created this program because cuts for billionaires shouldn’t come be- save lives, and end this epidemic. they knew that providing healthcare fore making sure that a sick kid gets I am going to continue fighting and coverage for children would make them the help he or she needs. Mothers are working with Members of both parties healthier as children and healthier lying awake at night. Fathers are toss- to combat this crisis, and I will con- even after they grew up. They knew ing and turning, worrying about their tinue sharing the stories of the people that some children were slipping healthcare coverage. What is the Re- of my State. It is up to all of us to stop through the cracks, and this was their publican leadership doing? Tomorrow this from happening to more families. solution. The children covered by CHIP they will be heading home for the I suggest the absence of a quorum. didn’t qualify for Medicaid, they weekend without lifting a finger to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The weren’t covered by employers, and they fund a bipartisan program that has clerk will call the roll. couldn’t afford to buy private insur- been reauthorized four times over the The bill clerk proceeded to call the ance. past 20 years. roll. In 1997, 15 percent of all the children If that isn’t bad enough, September Ms. WARREN. Mr. President, I ask in this country lacked any form of 30 wasn’t just the deadline for Congress unanimous consent that the order for health insurance coverage. Today, be- to reauthorize CHIP. We also blew past the quorum call be rescinded. cause of the CHIP program and the Af- the deadline on several other The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without fordable Care Act, that number has healthcare programs to help children, objection, it is so ordered. shrunk to 5 percent of children. CHIP to help pregnant women, to help older HEALTHCARE works with Medicaid to provide health Americans, and to help the chronically Ms. WARREN. Mr. President, on Sep- insurance for one out of every three ill. We blew past the deadline to reau- tember 30, the Children’s Health Insur- kids in this country. thorize the Community Health Center ance Program expired. It has now been States choose whether or not they Fund and the National Health Service 25 days since the Congress has put our want a CHIP program. Here is the deal. Corps, which funds health centers and children’s health and well-being on the Every single State has chosen one be- supports healthcare workers that pro- back burner. My colleagues and I do cause every single State recognizes the vide children with high-quality pri- not think that children’s health be- value of providing their children with mary care. We blew past the deadline longs on the back burner. So we have healthcare coverage. In Massachusetts, to reauthorize the Maternal, Infant, come to the floor of the Senate to the percentage of children with and Early Childhood Home Visiting spend the afternoon speaking up for healthcare coverage is even higher Program, which funds home visits to kids. than the national average. It is at 99 new and expectant parents to give Thank you to everyone who joins me percent. We are doing something right them help keeping a new baby healthy today to say that we should not wait here. and safe. We blew past the deadline to any longer to make sure that children, The original program was set for 10 reauthorize the Special Diabetes Pro- community health centers, and new years, and since then, every few years, gram, which funds diabetes research mothers have access to the healthcare Congress has had to act to reauthorize that could offer hope to many children programs that they need. the program so that children can con- living with diabetes. Republicans control Congress. It is tinue to get healthcare coverage. The When a kid is sick, moms and dads up to them what we vote on and when CHIP program has been reauthorized move Heaven and Earth to get them we do it. So what was more important four times since 1997, and not one of the care they need. They don’t wait 25 to the Republican leadership than the those times has Congress missed the days to go to the doctor and check to health of little kids? Republican lead- deadline—not one—until now. In fact, see if something is wrong. They stay up ers blew through the days before the in past years, Congress has made sure all night to make sure their little ones children’s healthcare deadline by try- to reauthorize the program many are all right. They wait outside the ing to repeal healthcare for millions of months ahead of its expiration in order hospital room, pacing until they get an Americans. to give States the time they need to answer, but Republican leaders in Con- Once the Children’s Health Insurance plan their budget. It sounds like a pret- gress just don’t seem to care. They Program had already expired, Repub- ty sensible thing to do—but not this don’t seem to care if these families lican leaders burned through more year. We are 25 days past the deadline have the health insurance coverage time by holding a series of votes on a for reauthorizing CHIP—25 days and they need so they can get an x ray or budget with giant tax cuts for billion- counting. This isn’t fair to States, to pay for an antibiotic or run some tests. aires and giant corporations that kids, or to their families. Twenty-five days, 26 days, 27 days—it would also gut Medicare, Medicaid, and So what actually happens now? just doesn’t seem to matter to Repub- a bunch of programs that help working Well, the money runs out. Eleven lican leaders, but it sure matters to families. Republicans jammed through States are set to run out of their CHIP moms and dads and kids in Massachu- their terrible budget without a single funding by the end of 2017, and the oth- setts and all over this country. Democratic vote last week, 19 days ers, soon after. Our Republican Gov- Senator Kennedy used to say: ‘‘The after blowing past the deadline to fund ernor in Massachusetts sent me a let- test of greatness for a nation is how it healthcare for kids. ter on day 3 past the CHIP deadline, cares for its children.’’ Right now Re- Last night, 24 days past the deadline and he wrote: publican leaders in Congress are failing to make sure the kids had healthcare Parents are already afraid that their chil- that test. My colleagues have come to coverage, what were Republican lead- dren’s insurance may be lost in the near fu- the floor today to say that time is up. ers doing? Republican leaders stayed ture. With each passing week, their fears We are here to fight for kids. up late into the night holding a vote to continue to grow. I yield the floor. make it easier for financial institu- My Governor is right. States have to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- tions to cheat people. start making tough decisions. They ator from Delaware.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.047 S25OCPT1 S6806 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 Mr. COONS. Mr. President, I rise in for funding for community health cen- children and all of those families. support of my colleagues who have ters, such as the bipartisan bill that There is no reason for CHIP to have ex- come to the floor to urge the Senate to Senator BLUNT of Missouri and Senator pired and no reason why we shouldn’t quickly pass funding for the Children’s STABENOW of Michigan have intro- pass the bill right now, if not in the Health Insurance Program, known as duced, the Community Health Invest- next couple of days—certainly, in the CHIP. ment, Modernization, and Excellence next 2 or 3 weeks—to ensure that not CHIP provides comprehensive health Act of 2017, S. 1899, which I am proud to one single child loses his or her health insurance to 9 million low-income chil- support. insurance. dren who don’t qualify for Medicaid, in- Folks, I urge that we work together We have taken important steps to ex- cluding 18,000 children in my home in a bipartisan way. We should not be tend the program. The Finance Com- State of Delaware. Lots of other States using children’s access to healthcare as mittee marked up the bipartisan Keep would say that 18,000 children is a a bargaining chip. We should be taking Kids’ Insurance Dependable and Secure small number, but in Delaware that is up these two bills to provide reauthor- Act of 2017, known by the acronym K- a significant population. Bluntly, ization, funding, and certainty imme- I-D-S, or KIDS. The KIDS Act came whether it is 1 or 100 or 1,000 or 18,000, diately for both CHC and CHIP funding out of the Finance Committee, which how can we allow inaction in this now and without hesitation. reauthorizes CHIP for 5 years, and that Chamber to put at risk the healthcare With that, I yield the floor. happened some 3 weeks ago. I am proud of millions of children across our coun- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- to be a cosponsor of that bill. try? ator from Pennsylvania. So it is time to act. We have a com- It has now been more than 3 weeks Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, as you monsense, bipartisan, successful bill in since funding for CHIP expired. While know, the Children’s Health Insurance the Senate that is ready to go. It is out some States have enough money in Program expired on September 30, in of the Finance Committee. So I would their accounts to carry them through large part because we spent much of urge my colleagues to join me and to to the end of the year or just beyond, this year and the days leading up to join others who have come to the floor the uncertainty about when or if CHIP that date debating the repeal of the Af- today and on earlier days to take swift funds will be reauthorized is causing fordable Care Act, instead of focusing action to pass the KIDS Act. chaos, concern, and anxiety across the on bipartisan priorities like the Chil- I yield the floor. country. Some States will have to dren’s Health Insurance Program. As a I suggest the absence of a quorum. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. LEE). start issuing notices to households result, the program known as CHIP ex- that they will face the loss of CHIP The clerk will call the roll. pired and the health of 9 million chil- coverage. Imagine the unnecessary fear The senior assistant legislative clerk dren, including some 340,000 Pennsyl- this will bring to parents and families proceeded to call the roll. vania children, are now at risk. Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask and struggling households across the CHIP is not just a bipartisan pro- country as they are facing other chal- unanimous consent that the order for gram but a successful program with a lenges in their life. the quorum call be rescinded. Pennsylvania history. It was modeled This is totally unnecessary. We can The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without stop this uncertainty right now and after a State program in Pennsylvania objection, it is so ordered. bring needed stability for parents, chil- that was signed into law by my father Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, dren, and States and show some kind of when he served as Governor in the healthcare for our Nation’s children is leadership from our Federal Govern- early 1990s. The program provides af- something we ought to be able to all ment. I am a proud cosponsor of the bi- fordable health insurance to children come together on, but this Congress, partisan KIDS Act, S. 1827, being led by whose family incomes mean they don’t which has not done much of anything, qualify for Medicaid but still struggle Senator ORRIN HATCH of Utah and Sen- is always able to find a way to help ator RON WYDEN of Oregon. This KIDS to find affordable health insurance op- Wall Street. Think about the middle- Act would extend funding for CHIP for tions. It is a program that working of-the-night vote last night, where the 5 years. I urge the Senate to do right families rely upon and that provides Vice President of the United States by America’s children and America’s peace of mind to parents. came to the rescue of Equifax and the working families and swiftly take up Many families turn to CHIP during rescue of Wells Fargo and the rescue of and pass this bill. times of economic hardship, such as Wall Street overall. Think of the cele- While we are on the topic of pro- when a parent loses his or her job. At brations last night on Wall Street be- grams desperately in need of reauthor- such a stressful time, I have heard cause of that tie vote, which stripped ization, I also want to draw attention from parents over and over how they consumers of their days in court. It to the expiration of the Community have peace of mind knowing that their stripped consumers of their consumer Health Center Fund, which ensures ac- children will get the healthcare they rights. cess to cost-effective primary and pre- need. This Congress, when it came to the ventive care for 26 million patients Some parents who rely upon CHIP for Children’s Health Insurance Program, across the country. In my home State their children are, in fact, students, allowed it to expire at the end of last of Delaware, about 50,000 Delawareans working and going to school so they month. It left millions of families benefit from several community health can make that leap into stable, middle- afraid they will lose healthcare for centers that are widely respected, well class life. They may not have a job their kids. Think about what this un- run, and provide affordable, accessible, with health insurance or they may not certainty means for parents. Trying to and preventive healthcare in commu- be able to afford the insurance, but make sure your children are safe and nities up and down my State. Funding they know their children will get the healthy is enough to worry about. for this critical program also lapsed healthcare they need. Families shouldn’t have to fear los- more than 3 weeks ago, and now, sadly, Regardless of what drives families to ing coverage for their kids because of community health centers across my the CHIP program, it is thanks in large some politicians in Washington. All of State and across the country are strug- part to CHIP that the United States of us have taxpayer-funded health insur- gling to make key decisions—decisions America has the highest rate of insured ance. Some politicians in Washington like signing new leases or signing on children in our Nation’s history. Ac- don’t seem to care much about these new medical personnel to positions. cording to the Census Bureau, 95.5 per- kids. Without certainty that the Federal cent of children had health insurance In my State, more than 200,000-plus Government will authorize their fund- in 2016. CHIP is also a popular program, children have insurance under CHIP. ing, how can we expect health centers as repeated studies have demonstrated. So even if something happens to their to plan, to provide services, and to pro- Parents think CHIP is a valuable pro- parents—even if they lose their job or vide preventive healthcare that im- gram, and they are satisfied with the their insurance—those 200,000-plus chil- proves health and strengthens our com- coverage and with the care their children in Ohio have insurance because of munity? dren receive. CHIP. But it expired on September 30. We should do everything we can to Unless the Senate acts and acts very Governor Kasich is a Republican. I swiftly pass a 5-year reauthorization soon, we will have betrayed all of those am a Democrat. We stand together on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.050 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6807 this, as we stand together protecting preventing a costly ambulance ride and Committee, with the exception of one. Medicaid and as we stand together pro- emergency room visit. CHIP means I thank Senator HATCH and Senator tecting the Affordable Care Act. He getting vaccines and shots. It means WYDEN and my colleague from Ohio, tells us that there is still a little bit of having dental coverage. We know what Senator PORTMAN, and so many of our money left over in Ohio to get us happens to low-income kids who don’t colleagues for their help with that. through these next few weeks until get good dental care. But this process is taking too long. Congress does its job. But that doesn’t The State of Ohio probably has Josh and Noble and the 209,000 Ohioans mean parents don’t worry about their enough money to help protect CHIP and 9 million children across the coun- children possibly losing their health in- kids through the end of the year, but try are in a situation in which their surance. Congress needs to act now. parents are unsure of whether they will Kids on CHIP are a little more likely I have met with CHIP families across have insurance through the end of the to have asthma or a little bit more Ohio. Let me tell you some stories. year and next year and the year after. likely to have an illness, in part be- Josh, whom I met in Cleveland—his It is time for us to come together to cause they are low-income kids and children were covered by CHIP when he ensure that the families we work for they may live near a bus line and the was laid off from his job. He said, ‘‘The have the healthcare they need for their air they breathe may not quite be so ability to take health insurance out of children. good. Or they live in Appalachia, where the equation, feeling confident that my I yield the floor. they might not be able to get to the family will continue to get the same I suggest the absence of a quorum. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The doctor quickly. Those kids are more at quality of care they had while I was clerk will call the roll. risk, and those parents are worried, working, was a huge weight lifted.’’ The legislative clerk proceeded to even though Governor Kasich assures Think about that. call the roll. them and I assure them we are going to This father, knowing that he has in- Ms. HIRONO. Mr. President, I ask do this. surance—he had plenty of things to unanimous consent that the order for Congress worked into the middle of worry about. He lost his job. Who the quorum call be rescinded. the night last night and debated for knows what that means about their The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without hours on a giveaway to Wall Street. home and their lifestyle and their fam- objection, it is so ordered. They debated for hours on helping ily? But at least he knew he could rely Ms. HIRONO. Mr. President, Donald Equifax, which abused the public trust on insurance—until now. Look what Trump and the Republican Congress of 145 million people—5 million in my this Congress has failed to do. have spent most of the past year push- State. They bailed out Wells Fargo, Think about Noble from Columbus, ing their misplaced priorities, no mat- which fraudulently attacked, for want who came to my office earlier this year ter the direct and collateral damage it of a better term, 3.5 million customers. with his mom to talk about how impor- causes for millions of Americans across Congress can bail them out, but it tant CHIP is. Noble relies on CHIP for the country. can’t pass the Children’s Health Insur- coverage for the five pediatric special- There are many examples to choose ance Program? ists he sees at one of America’s great from to illustrate this point. Just last Because of CHIP, 209,000—I said more hospitals, Nationwide Children’s Hos- night, the Vice President had to come than 200,000 before; more precisely, pital in Columbus. in and break a tie to protect huge cor- 209,000 Ohio children have access to af- My colleagues need to think about porations from the victims of the fordable healthcare today—healthcare Josh and his kids in Cleveland and frauds they perpetuated. Now they are they may not have received otherwise. Noble and his mom in Columbus. We putting together a huge tax cut for the That is the importance of this pro- need to think about the mother of a wealthiest people in our country, and gram. It used to be bipartisan until son with diabetes, worrying about they are trying to sell it as a raise for this Congress, always in its rush to whether her son will be able to see the the middle class. In Hawaii, we call help Wall Street, forgot about these same doctor next year or about a fa- this shibai—or B.S. children. ther with a daughter with asthma, But there is perhaps no issue in This program provides peace of mind praying she doesn’t lose her inhaler on which Donald Trump’s dangerous agen- for parents. Regardless of income, the playground because in a few da has caused more harm than his when a parent knows that a daughter months they might not have insurance quest to deprive millions of Americans or a son has health insurance, it pro- to pay for that inhaler. the healthcare and the health insur- vides peace of mind. They know if their My wife has asthma, and I know what ance they need. His first attempt at re- child has a sore throat or earache, they that means. She had a father who had pealing the Affordable Care Act would don’t have to wait until the child is so health insurance through his union have thrown as many as 30 million peo- sick they take her to the emergency plan with the Illuminating Company in ple off of their health insurance. room. They won’t have to hesitate or Northeast Ohio. He worked mainte- Thanks to the combined efforts of so wonder if they can afford the doctor nance. It was a good blue-collar job. It many people—active people, engaged visit or antibiotic. They get the care didn’t pay enough to send her to col- people across the country—we defeated their kids need. lege, but it did pay enough with good this proposal. Most of us in this body are parents. insurance that it gave them a decent A few months later, continuing the Most of us in this body have insurance lifestyle. They didn’t have CHIP back assault on healthcare, Donald Trump provided by taxpayers. Wouldn’t you then. More people had union plans. renewed his attack on our healthcare think that this would be important More people were protected. system under the so-called Graham- enough to Leader MCCONNELL and the We used to have CHIP until Sep- Cassidy bill. But once again, the com- leaders of this body and to President tember 30, when this Congress didn’t bined outrage of millions kept the bill Trump and to Speaker RYAN? Wouldn’t care enough to provide it. We should from coming to the floor. you think it would be important not be playing politics with families’ In the time they spent on their sin- enough? lives. gle-minded, unrelenting quest to repeal We all talk about loving our kids. We Two years ago, I led the fight in this the Affordable Care Act, Donald Trump talk about grandchildren. Most of us body to protect CHIP. Because of that and Republicans in Congress have al- are at the age where many of us have work, with the support of advocates all lowed authorization for the Children’s grandchildren. We don’t care enough across Ohio—and there are so many of Health Insurance Program, or CHIP, to about these children as we get insur- them across the country—we extended lapse. Nearly 30,000 children in Hawaii ance from taxpayers. We don’t care funding for CHIP for 2 years. Again, and more than 9 million across the enough about these kids to do this? this was with bipartisan support, back country depend on CHIP for their It has already been 3 weeks now since when Congress operated that way. healthcare. You heard just now my col- CHIP expired. CHIP means a child in We have already come a long way league from Ohio tell you stories about Cincinnati or Dayton or Portsmouth or this year. We passed a 5-year extension the children in Ohio—children with Akron or Youngstown or Mansfield can of CHIP out of the Senate Finance asthma. In Hawaii, we have children see a family doctor when they need it, Committee. It had every vote in that with asthma, children with diabetes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.056 S25OCPT1 S6808 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 Nearly 30,000 children in Hawaii who cusing on reauthorizing this critical vide certainty and stability to States, rely on CHIP for their healthcare are healthcare lifeline, Republican leader- to providers, and to reassure families being affected by our inaction. Pri- ship chose to waste months of time by reauthorizing CHIP. When President marily covering children from low-in- trying to repeal the Affordable Care Trump says he wants to make the come families who earn too much to Act. They let just one of these success- healthcare system in America better, qualify for Medicaid, CHIP provides ful programs lapse while they tried un- when President Trump says he wants critical and much needed care for chil- successfully to end another. They were to make sure families are able to take dren with complex medical conditions. more interested in ripping healthcare care of their children, we have a pro- Although existing funding has al- coverage away from millions of Ameri- gram that does that already. It is suc- lowed States to stretch budgets to keep cans and taking a machete to Medicaid cessful, and families and the States the program in place, money is quickly rather than protecting our Nation’s love it. All we need is Republicans in running out. If we don’t take action children. the Senate to work together in order to soon, as many as 4 million children We should not forget that CHIP make sure that program continues for could lose their health insurance en- stands on Medicaid’s shoulders. Any the health of all children in our coun- tirely—4 million children. fundamental changes to how Medicaid try. Congress cannot and should not be operates—whether it is block-granting I yield the floor. complicit in what I would call gross or capping the program—will ham- Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, the negligence. It is not negligence; it is string CHIP’s ability to serve children Senate is currently considering the gross negligence. as effectively and efficiently as it was nomination of Scott Palk to a lifetime CHIP has traditionally enjoyed bipar- intended to do, but instead of imme- appointment as a Federal district court tisan support. In fact, it emerged from diately returning attention to ensuring judge on the Western District of Okla- the committee with bipartisan support. that this lapsed deadline is not effec- homa. I voted against Mr. Palk’s nomi- I am glad Senators Wyden and Hatch tive, House Republicans have further nation in the Judiciary Committee, have come together to create the KIDS delayed action by inserting partisan and I will oppose his nomination on the Act, which I have cosponsored. This policies to pay for the program. This floor. bill would extend CHIP’s authorization has not only caused an unnecessary While his nomination was pending for and funding through 2022 and provide delay in passing a bill to reauthorize a lifetime appointment to be a Federal judge, Mr. Palk changed his member- much needed certainty to millions of CHIP, but it has dragged CHIP onto the ship with the National Rifle Associa- families across the country. political game board, turning it and tion to take out a life membership in If we brought this bill to the floor our children into pawns in their ruth- the organization. When I asked Mr. right now, it would pass. It would less game of partisan chess. Palk about this change, he asserted he clearly have the votes to pass. The CHIP has historically been and expects to maintain this ‘‘lifetime only question is, Why don’t we do it? should be above such games because member’’ status, even if he is con- Why don’t we provide healthcare to CHIP is not just an insurance program, firmed, and he refused to commit to millions of children in our country, for it is a reassurance program. It reas- recuse himself from any cases where Heaven’s sake? sures States that they can provide the National Rifle Association has I cannot believe that my colleagues comprehensive healthcare coverage to taken a legal position. on the other side of the aisle are afraid some of their most vulnerable, it reas- What I find disconcerting about this to risk incurring the wrath of a venge- sures doctors that their patients will is Federal judges must be impartial. ful President. I cannot believe that is be able to access care and treatment, it Federal judges must not have any ap- what is keeping them from doing the reassures teachers that their students pearance of conflicts of interest. When right thing. can be healthy enough to learn, and it individuals come before a court, they I encourage the majority leader to reassures Mom and Dad that their chil- need to trust that their case will be bring this bill to the floor for a vote as dren can still get well in the face of fi- heard fairly and on the merits. soon as possible. nancial hardship. Every American must believe that I yield the floor. Continued inaction on CHIP is dan- they will get a fair, unbiased hearing I suggest the absence of a quorum. gerous and damaging. Every day we no matter who their judge is. Federal The PRESIDING OFFICER. The delay reauthorizing CHIP is another judges must follow applicable laws and clerk will call the roll. day parents across the United States regulations that severely limit the The legislative clerk proceeded to live in fear that their children may kinds of organizations they can partici- call the roll. soon lose their health insurance. They pate in. Mr. MARKEY. Mr. President, I ask panic at the thought of leaving their For example, the code of conduct for unanimous consent that the order for child’s asthma untreated, skipping a Federal Judges says, ‘‘[A] judge should the quorum call be rescinded. trip to the dentist, or delaying a doc- not participate in extrajudicial activi- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without tor’s visit because they can’t afford to ties that detract from the dignity of objection, it is so ordered. pay for the treatment or medication the judge’s office, interfere with the Mr. MARKEY. Mr. President, this that may be prescribed. If we don’t act performance of the judge’s official du- summer the Children’s Health Insur- soon, this fear may become a terrible ties, reflect adversely on the judge’s ance Program, or CHIP, turned 20 years reality for families. In Massachusetts, impartiality, lead to frequent disquali- old. CHIP funding will expire early next fication, or violate the limitations set I served on the House committee that year. This could impact coverage for forth below.’’ created this bill and was proud to sup- 160,000 children in the Commonwealth, That is why members of the Senate port providing the affordable com- potentially delaying access to treat- Judiciary Committee often ask judicial prehensive health insurance to low-in- ment and services that could have nominees at their hearings what steps come children and pregnant women. It ramifications into adulthood. they will take to prepare for the bench. is a bipartisan program, and it is an ef- In Congress, we are celebrating the It is the committee’s duty to deter- fective program. Last year alone, CHIP 20th birthday of a successful children’s mine whether a nominee is prepared to covered nearly 9 million children insurance program by effectively leave their former roles and personal throughout the country. In Massachu- threatening to end it. That is what beliefs at the door and instead serve in setts, CHIP has been instrumental in Congress is now doing to the State of an impartial arbiter. achieving near-universal coverage for Massachusetts. That is what they are In fact, when nominated for lifetime our children in the Bay State. saying to the State of Massachusetts; appointments, most nominees try to Yet, instead of celebrating CHIP’s that they are going to effectively try rid themselves of conflicts and limit successes over the last two decades, to shut down a program that for 20 their affiliations, especially with advo- congressional Republicans have placed years has served the children in our cacy organizations. However, Mr. Palk CHIP in programmatic purgatory. That State. That makes no sense. not only chose to maintain his mem- is because they allowed CHIP to expire I urge my Republican colleagues to bership with the NRA, he chose to ex- at the end of September. Instead of fo- put their partisan games aside to pro- tend his membership for life.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.057 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6809 The fact that we are considering this EUCOM, CENTCOM—and talked to I have to remind people that the per- nominee, given this issue with his them about the threats in all these re- sons who are responsible for advising background, just 3 weeks after the Las gions. the Secretary of State, who at that Vegas shooting, should really give us At a time when I hear colleagues time was Hillary Clinton, and the all a reason to pause. Las Vegas is now across the aisle and political pundits President, who was President Obama at the deadliest mass shooting committed ask the question, Why do we have that time, are the DNI—that was by an individual in the United States. troops in various places like Africa, it James Clapper at that time—the Sec- It has only been a year since the Pulse is important to remember the strategic retary of Defense and Chairman of the Nightclub massacre in Orlando, which importance of Africa. Joint Chiefs of Staff. When the was previously the deadliest mass I remember 10 years ago we didn’t Benghazi event happened, the annex shooting in our Nation’s history. It has have a command for Africa. It was part was blown up. They all said at that been only 5 years since 20 6-year-olds of three commands: Pacific Command, time—they advised us, the President, and 6 adults were murdered at Sandy Central Command, and European Com- and the Secretary of State—that they Hook Elementary School in Newtown, mand. Now we have AFRICOM. It is its were forewarned by more than a month CT. What happened after each of those own command. It seemed a little un- that on the anniversary of 9/11 things shootings? reasonable that we were treating Afri- would blow up, and it was going to be After Sandy Hook, the NRA opposed ca as somewhat of a stepchild when an organized attack. any legislation that would have re- that is the breeding ground out there Right now there is an investigation stricted high-capacity magazines or for a lot of the things happening in going on to determine whether or not military-style assault rifles. terms of terrorism. there is any way that we could have After the Pulse Nightclub shooting, Despite our military’s reach and in- anticipated that in Niger this would be the NRA opposed any legislation to ex- fluence, our Nation’s shrinking defense happening, and so far, that hasn’t come pand background checks on gun buyers budget has put AFRICOM at risk dur- up. or to prevent gun sales to people on ing a time when commanders are say- Despite the best of intentions, many terrorist watch lists. ing we face the most dangerous world of our partners in the region lack the After the Las Vegas shooting, the we have ever faced, and we have. capacity and the effectiveness to ade- NRA, despite initial statements to the I have often said that I look wistfully quately defend themselves. People say: contrary, has come out opposed to any back at the days of the Cold War, when What do we have to gain there? This is legislation to ban ‘‘bump-fire stocks,’’ we had two superpowers and they were exactly the same situation that we saw even though such devices allow guns to predictable. We knew what they had. in Afghanistan prior to the war there. function as machineguns, which are al- They knew what we had. You have peo- The terrorists have to have a safe har- ready banned under the law. ple from all over the world who are bor to train in, and that is what has The NRA has never supported any putting together equipment that we happened. commonsense gun legislation. The never dreamed they would have. During my travel, I had the oppor- NRA’s views on gun control issues We have just gone through 8 years of tunity to meet Prime Minister Ben- could not be clearer, which is why it is another administration. I don’t say jamin Netanyahu. I have to say this so problematic that a judicial nominee this critically of him, but one thing about him. I have never seen him so ec- chose to double-down on his NRA mem- about President Obama was that he static. A lot of us were looking back at bership while his nomination was pend- was a committed, sincere liberal. Lib- what they were trying to do during the ing, rather than extricate himself from erals generally don’t pay a lot of atten- Obama administration. It was disheart- his prior commitments and then refuse tion to the military. Now we find our- ening to think that they put together to commit to recusing himself on cases selves in a situation where we are hurt- this Iran deal, and our Secretary of where the NRA has made its views ing. A lot of people assume that we State at that time, John Kerry, talked abundantly clear. This should trouble don’t have any problems militarily. about how great it was and all of these all of us. Sometimes I remind people that up concessions that were made when, in Our job in evaluating judicial nomi- until about 1962, we spent more than fact, that wasn’t the case. Nonetheless, nees is to ensure our Federal courts are half—52 percent in 1962—of all of our when our President came out and said an independent part of our system of revenues on defending America. What that he was not going to recertify the checks and balances. To do that, we is it today? It is 15 percent. When I tell Iran deal, that was kind of neat be- need confidence that judicial nominees people that, they are in shock that we cause people don’t realize that it takes will safeguard their own impartiality. I are in the situation we are in. We have a recertification every 30 days by the think all of my colleagues feel that terrorist groups in Africa—such as President in order to keep the Iran deal way. ISIS, al-Shabaab, and Boko Haram— together. He has not done that. That is not what Mr. Palk has done. and they are all growing in capability Shortly after that, I happened to be Instead of taking steps to separate and have expanded their areas through- talking to Prime Minister Netanyahu. himself from strong political views, he out Africa. This year we have seen hor- It was an incredible relief to him that has proactively taken steps to increase rific events occurring at the hands of we were going to be looking at this. his commitment to specific views of these extremists. On October 14, a Still today, I think we all understand the law. truck bombing killed 300 people in So- that Iran is the one that is financing I will vote against Mr. Palk’s nomi- malia’s capital. In Niger—it just hap- terrorism all around the world. We dis- nation and urge my colleagues to do pened—we had four of our U.S. soldiers cussed the shortcomings and looked the same. who were killed in action on October 4 forward to working with my colleagues Mr. MARKEY. I suggest the absence by an ISIS group. in the future so that Iran does not be- of a quorum. We know that we have serious prob- come a nuclear nation, not now or The PRESIDING OFFICER. The lems. I think it is a great disservice for ever. clerk will call the roll. people to say that we must have known What is perhaps the most encour- The bill clerk proceeded to call the that we had the threat that was out aging is the message that this ap- roll. there in Niger, when in fact we didn’t proach sends to the rest of the world, Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, I ask know it. They even compare it some- specifically to North Korea. President unanimous consent that the order for times with Benghazi. I remember Trump’s approach shows me—and, the quorum call be rescinded. Benghazi. I was there at the time. I re- more importantly, shows Kim Jong The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without member Chris Stevens. Chris Stevens Un—that an America-first foreign pol- objection, it is so ordered. was the Ambassador who went there. icy means that we refuse to take a sin- AFRICOM, FOREIGN POLICY, AND OUR MILITARY He was in my office right before he left, gle-minded approach to global threats. Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, I came talking about the threats that were I recall the changes taking place 8 back just a week ago from visiting our there, talking about the Taliban, his years ago when our new President, troops stationed all around the world, training there, and talking about orga- President Obama, started his appeasing in all the commands—AFRICOM, nized terrorist activity. tour by going over and talking about

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.022 S25OCPT1 S6810 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 how America hadn’t been doing the care of these shortfalls we have had. ical of what is happening right now in right thing. Now, all of a sudden, we Our forces are smaller now. We actu- the Environmental Protection Agency. have changed that around. That is ally had a Readiness Subcommittee I feel I have to talk about this because, what is taking place now. At that time hearing, and we had the Vice Chiefs of first of all, I was chairman of the com- we didn’t have the threats that are out all of the services there. They came in mittee that had jurisdiction over the there today. and said that right now we are in the Environmental Protection Agency for We look at North Korea. North Korea same situation we were in when we had about 8 years. I see the things that are is run by a questionable person, totally the hollow force following the Carter happening now, improvements that are unpredictable, according to our own administration in the 1970s. being made. military leaders. He is rapidly getting In January of this year, the Vice One is by a guy named Scott Pruitt. the capability not just of an ICBM—he Chief of Staff of the Army, General Scott Pruitt happens to be from Okla- has already proven he has an ICBM— Daniel Allyn, said: What it comes down homa. He is doing things now, and I but with a range not just of Alaska and to is that we are going to be too late. don’t know of anyone who has ever some of those areas but of the entire Our soldiers arrived too late. Our sol- been abused during a confirmation continental United States. diers required too much time to close process like he was. Poor Scott sat On July 4 he launched his first suc- the manning, the training, and the there. As a general rule, after a com- cessful ICBM. If that were fired on a equipment we have, and the end result mittee gets through with that process, standard trajectory, that missile could is extensive casualties to civilians and they have questions for the record. have reached Alaska. Some experts to our forces. Normally, they are somewhere between We are talking about death. That is think it could have reached even fur- 15 and 20 questions for the record. Do what is at stake right here. Just last ther, into the continental United you know how many questions Scott week, I met with the Secretary of the States. In light of that test, the De- Pruitt got? He got 675 questions for the Air Force, Heather Wilson, to discuss fense Intelligence Agency updated record. Anyway, he sustained that. He aviation readiness. Right now we are their assessment of the timeline by is now doing great things. 1,500 pilots short, and 1,300 of those are which North Korea would have the ca- Over the last 8 years, I have had lit- fighter pilots. Only 50 percent of the pability of hitting an American city. tle, if any, chance to praise the work of Air Force’s squadrons are actually Instead of being 2 years out and 3 years the EPA, but I can do it now. After 8 trained and ready to conduct all of out, it is now down to 1 year out. Some years of being relentlessly targeted by their assigned missions. One-third of people say they have it right now. We the Obama administration to shut out our ground brigades don’t work. They have that threat that is out there. It is our farmers, ranchers, manufacturers, are not ready for combat. As to the the greatest threat, in my opinion, and energy industries, we have an ad- aviation brigades, it is the same thing. that we are facing now or that we have Right now, as we know, the Marines ministration that will listen to them ever faced. use our fleet of F–18s. Sixty-two per- and work with them. This is what jobs Following this, on September 3, cent of them don’t work. They don’t are all about. North Korea tested what is believed to have the parts for combat. We have There is a lot of talk about the visit be a hydrogen bomb. That would be this situation. That is going to have to that was made to our conference by seven times the power of what was be direct. This year’s bill will increase President Trump yesterday. What he dropped on Hiroshima. Even if deliv- the troop levels. We will do what is talked about most of the time was jobs. ered by a relatively inaccurate ICBM, necessary to correct these problems. We are in the position to correct it. there would be horrible damage im- We need to get moving on that and What have we done to do that? A lot posed on our continent. make people aware that help is on the of the overregulations have been elimi- It is important to remember that all way. nated. There is the caricature of busi- of this power is being wielded by an er- By the way, here is one of my con- nesses referred to as greedy, loony ratic despot, Kim Jong Un. North Ko- cerns in this bill. A lot of people are in- boogeymen. But in reality, businesses rean officials have stated that they are terested in the BRAC process. We do are run by people who want what is not interested in diplomacy until they prohibit base realignment closings to best for America, for their families, have an ICBM capable of reaching the take place for another year. The reason and for the stockholders. east coast of the United States. for that is not that there may be excess Now, like any sector of society, you What does that tell you? It tells you capacity right now or excess resources are going to find a few bad actors, but that they are on their way. This out there, but when we are in a rebuild- we have laws and remedies in place to stresses the need for the United States ing mode, we would rather be able to make sure we go after those individ- to enhance and accelerate our ballistic use those resources that aren’t being uals. The last administration treated missile defense systems and to con- used now rather than build new ones. those they regulated as the enemy, not tinue to put pressure on North Korea One thing is true about a BRAC; it al- as partners in ensuring that the envi- through every other means we can, dip- ways loses money the first 3 years. ronment was taken care of, which led lomatic and otherwise. Right now we can’t afford to lose any to very harmful, unworkable regula- My recent travels enforced again of the money that goes to defending tions. what I have been saying for some time; America. All of that is changing right now that is, that this is the most dangerous Anyway, of the additional funding, with President Trump and his adminis- situation we have had, certainly in my there is going to be $8.5 billion for the tration. The administration realizes lifetime. We have an opportunity to missile defense that has been suffering, that working with those they regulate counter that threat right now. We are and we are going to be doing some good will produce better outcomes than only in the midst of our NDAA. One thing things. As we continue the conference listening to those who wish to drive about the National Defense Authoriza- process, which started today—we had the industry into the ground. Adminis- tion Act is that this act is going to our first conference meeting today—we trator Pruitt has been meeting with pass. It has passed for 55 consecutive need to focus on where we are. farmers, ranchers, energy producers, years so we know it is going to pass Again, I repeat, the threat is there. and other industries to listen to and now. But we need to go ahead and get We understand that. We know what is learn about how regulations affect it done. It is important because the pri- happening in Africa. By the way, the them and how a worthwhile regulation mary constitutional responsibility that number of troops we have over there— might be implemented in a way that is we have is to provide for the common you have to quit using this number of producing an unintended harm. defense of our great Nation. about 6,000—is really 1,300 troops for I really cannot see why this is a bad We have serious readiness issues that the entire continent who are not com- thing, as the goal of the EPA is not to are going to have to be addressed, and mitted or working in some of the Em- put companies or farmers out of busi- they are being addressed in this bill. I bassies. We need to get busy on that. ness; it is to put forward policies that am the chairman of the Readiness Sub- ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY protect the environment and do not committee, and we have fought hard to Mr. President, I have another issue I have a heavy cost, but just meeting ensure that this year’s NDAA takes wish to visit. A lot of people are crit- with those who have been shut out of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.060 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6811 the process in the past has extremists would see double-digit increases, and from court cases in other States, not in on the left seeing red. I guess they are these increases would be shouldered by Oklahoma, as Oklahoma was not even just upset that they have lost their American families, many of whom al- part of it or aware of it. They do that monopoly and their ability to write ready have to choose between making to overrule the State’s Regional Haze rules for the EPA. rent payments and paying their power Plan to impose EPA’s own costly plan Pruitt and the EPA are also moving bills or choosing between putting food on Oklahoma electricity ratepayers. forward to repeal the unlawful waters on their tables or paying their power Now, the plan the EPA has pushed on of the United States. This is one of the bills. The plan would also see the clo- this State costs an estimated $282 mil- things, if you talk to the farmers sure of 66 powerplants and eliminate lion each year. That is just in our throughout not just Oklahoma but over 125,000 jobs in the coal industry— State of Oklahoma, and it is something throughout America, they will say, of an industry that has already been we would have to pay for. all of the rules and regulations, this is struggling in recent years. The regional haze problem has noth- the most harmful. This is No. 1. That is The goal of this rule was to effec- ing to do with health. It is all visi- what they say. In fact, Tom Buchanan tively end the use of coal-fired power- bility. So this was ruining the theme of is the head of the Farm Bureau in the plants, which is a cheap and bountiful the Obama EPA. Never mind that re- State of Oklahoma, and he says that is energy. What benefit would we get out gional haze is entirely a visibility issue the problem. of this? It would be more expensive en- and not a health issue, never mind that People are not aware. In my State of ergy. Congress specifically gave States the Oklahoma, when you get out into By the way, the whole idea of the authority to regulate regional haze Western Oklahoma, it is dry out there. Paris thing was not just the Clean under the Clean Air Act in the amend- I mean, it is about as arid as any part Power Plan put forth by our President; ments I strongly supported when they of the United States. Yet we know, if it was also what other countries were went through because it is a visibility they were to move that jurisdiction of forced to do. For example, in signing issue and not a health issue. Yet be- water away from the States and to the on to this deal in Paris, which every- cause an environmentalist group did Federal Government, as was proposed one was so upset about, China com- not like how Oklahoma was handling in a rule that was promulgated by the mitted, for the next 10 years, to con- its own business, it sued the EPA in previous administration, that area in tinue to increase, every 10 days, an ad- court outside of Oklahoma and did not Western Oklahoma would be considered ditional coal-fired powerplant. Then include Oklahoma as a party in the a wetland before it is over. Anyway, they would try to reduce them after case. The EPA capitulated and entered that is probably, singularly, the best of that. into an agreement with some of the ex- the rules that he changed. What kind of a deal is that? They tremists that conveniently required By the way, if anyone wants to see look back at the United States and the EPA to impose its own expensive the rules—a lot of people say the Presi- think they know what is going to hap- plan on my State of Oklahoma. dent has not been doing anything. Most pen to our manufacturing base. They So I am glad Administrator Pruitt of these rules and regulations—there would go to China if we had to do this has announced an end to this policy, are up to 48 now—that have been cost- thing. and I urge my colleagues to take up S. ing jobs and putting people out of busi- The most ridiculous thing about this 119. It is the Sunshine for Regulatory ness have now been addressed by this is, the President’s commitment under Decrees and Settlements Act, of which administration, by the Trump adminis- the Clean Power Plan was to reduce I am an original cosponsor, to ensure that this practice is ended across the tration, and very successfully. Right our CO2 emissions by somewhere be- now, we are in the process of getting tween 26 and 28 percent by 2025. The government and cannot be imple- some of these things done. problem with that is, it cannot be mented by future administrations. The waters rule is going to take a done. We even called in the EPA so Finally, I would like to encourage while to get done because that is going they may tell us how this could be the EPA to move ahead with a hinted- at, pending directive that would re- to take some hearings and so forth. An- done, and they agreed it could not be strict scientists who receive EPA other of the rules the EPA is working done. grants from serving on the Agency’s on repealing is the Clean Power Plan. Anyway, that is something that is scientific advisory committees. I have Now, this is the thing that came from behind us now. I commend Scott Pruitt previously expressed concerns over the for realizing the legal footing of this the Paris show. In fact, I have done composition of the Agency’s advisory rule and seeing that the costs the this before. I have talked about the his- committees for many reasons, includ- American people will bear under this tory of these things that have been put ing highlighting the fact that many forth for 21 consecutive years now by rule is not going to happen. science advisers under the Obama EPA, Just last week, the EPA announced the U.N., which is that they have these including a majority of those on the meetings. They get 196 countries to- that it will end its controversial policy Clean Air Scientific Advisory Com- gether, and they try to see what they known as sue and settle. This is a good mittee—that is called CASAC—have re- one. It is a policy that has cost the tax- can do to get them to reduce CO2 emis- ceived considerable financial support sions, when, in fact, they have not been payers an estimated $67 billion in new from the EPA. They are calling into able to do this. regulations that stemmed from this question their independence and the Besides that, 87 percent of the power practice. How this works is that some overall integrity of panels on which the that is developed to run our country is extremist group will come in and sue advisers sit. either from fossil fuels or it is nuclear. the EPA for not doing something, and The National Academy of Sciences If you extract those, as they tried to so they go into a settlement agreement and the EPA’s own ‘‘Peer Review Hand- do, how do you run the machine called with the EPA, and the EPA is in con- book’’ state that grants can constitute America? The answer is, you can’t. cert with them to come up with the a conflict or a lack of impartiality. We Anyway, as far as the Clean Power very thing they were not able to get are not talking about small grants ei- Plan, that was put together by Presi- through legislatively. It is called sue ther; we are talking about millions of dent Obama, and it was something you and settle. You have heard the Presi- dollars in grants. During the last year could talk about as long as you wanted dent talk about ending that practice. It of the Obama administration, CASAC to, but the fact is, it was not good for is one that needs to be ended, and it is had six of seven members receiving the country. The rule was so unpopular going to be. This practice cir- these. Keep in mind, six of the seven that 27 States, 37 rural electric co-ops, cumvented the Administrative Proce- members received a total of $119 mil- and 3 labor unions challenged it in dure Act and usually ended up in set- lion in grants—in EPA research court. The cost of the rule was esti- tlements that were extremely bene- grants—and three of the members re- mated to be $292 billion, but I have ficial to extremist groups and got them ceived in excess of $25 million each. seen estimates that are well in excess exactly what they wanted all the time. These are the scientists who are mak- of $400 billion. My State of Oklahoma was a victim ing the decisions. There were 22 of the The plan would raise electricity of this practice. In 2011, the EPA used 26 members of the CASAC Sub- prices in 47 States; 40 of those States consent agreements that stemmed committee on Particulate Matter who

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.062 S25OCPT1 S6812 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 received more than $330 million in EPA Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask tracts for credit cards, debit cards, pre- grants. unanimous consent that the order for paid bank cards, payday loans, and The scientists who receive vast sums the quorum call be rescinded. even cell phones. The 2015 CFPB report of money from the very agencies they The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without found that 93 percent of consumers are advising certainly constitute a con- objection, it is so ordered. whose credit cards included forced ar- flict of interest and, at a minimum, Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I have bitration clauses did not know that give an appearance of a lack of impar- remarks that I wish to make, but I will they could not sue their credit card tiality. As such, I welcome the news yield at this time in order for the Re- companies. that Administrator Pruitt will be seek- publican leader to be recognized after The CFPB rule enhanced protections ing to limit this worrisome practice. which I will seek recognition. for consumers in the military. That is I have laid out only a few of the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- why the American Legion, the Nation’s many great things the EPA is doing jority leader. largest wartime veterans service orga- right now and what Administrator Pru- Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I nization, which represents 2 million itt is doing. I got to know him a long thank my friend from Illinois. veterans, and the Military Coalition, time ago. In fact, I flew him around the f which represents 5.5 million current State in my airplane back when he ran and former servicemembers and their for the first statewide office. He is a LEGISLATIVE SESSION families, supported the protections guy who is a tiger and who is doing the provided under this rule. right thing. I am very proud of what I have cosponsored the Military Con- they are doing. MORNING BUSINESS sumer Protection Act led by Senator After this morning, the EPA is now Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I REED, which would put the enforce- advancing five EPA nominees for the ment of the Servicemember Civil Relief EPA general counsel and for the Offices ask unanimous consent that the Sen- ate proceed to legislative session for a Act under the CFPB so that the agency of Enforcement and Compliance Assur- responsible for protecting servicemem- ance, Air and Radiation, Water, and period of morning business, with Sen- ators permitted to speak therein for up bers and their families is also able to Chemical Safety and Pollution Preven- enforce those protections. tion. Each of these nominees is needed to 10 minutes each. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Our servicemembers and veterans for the issues I have talked about and face challenges that are different from for the many others that are on the objection, it is so ordered. (At the request of Mr. SCHUMER, the civilian consumers, especially during Agency’s plate. deployment. We need to make sure Scott Pruitt has been working on so following statement was ordered to be that they have all the protections they much of the President’s conservative printed in the RECORD.) earn through their service. That is why agenda alone, and he needs help to run f I voted against H.J. Res. 111, the reso- these policies. I call on my colleagues and the leadership to prioritize these VOTE EXPLANATION lution of disapproval with respect to the CFPB arbitration rule, and I will nominations. You cannot get this stuff ∑ Mr. MENENDEZ. Mr. President, I continue to fight for our servicemem- done unless you have help. We have was unavailable for rollcall vote No. bers, veterans, and consumers to get never seen a time when we have gotten 250, on the motion to invoke cloture on the protections they deserve. this far into an administration and Scott L. Palk, of Oklahoma, to be have had this large of a number of peo- United States District Judge for the f ple who have not been confirmed. Western District of Oklahoma. Had I TRIBUTE TO RICHARD LINCOLN Mr. President, I do want to mention ∑ been present, I would have voted nay. Ms. COLLINS. Mr. President, one other thing because, for some rea- f throughout our Nation’s history, young son, the Democrats have decided they Americans have left the comfort and are going to run out the whole 30 hours CONGRESSIONAL REVIEW ACT security of home in order to preserve on the confirmation of a guy named RESOLUTION Scott Palk. I have to say, Scott Palk our freedom and to extend the bless- Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, has been doing a great job. In fact, on ings of freedom to others. We set aside today I wish to discuss the vote in the the vote that just took place on him, Veterans Day to express our gratitude. Senate last night to overturn the Con- he received 79 votes in the U.S. Senate. One such veteran is Mr. Richard Lin- sumer Financial Protection Bureau’s Yet, just to be obstructionists, they are coln of Wayne, ME. Although the story rule regarding forced arbitration that still demanding 30 hours. of his service in Italy during World War Scott Palk is an experienced pros- would protect consumers and make II is extraordinary, the virtues of cour- ecutor with a decade of service. He was sure they get their day in court when age, sacrifice, and devotion to duty it the assistant district attorney for financial institutions violate the law. demonstrates describe the character of Cleveland County in my State of Okla- The floor schedule did not allow me to American patriots in all places and at homa and spent 9 years as an assistant give these remarks before the vote, so all times. U.S. attorney in the criminal division I am giving them today. This rule Now 91 years of age, Mr. Lincoln en- of the Western District of Oklahoma. would have restored the ability of serv- tered the U.S. Army in 1943 when he He has a reputation for honesty, integ- icemembers, veterans, and other con- was just 17. He served with the leg- rity, and a commitment to fairly ap- sumers to join together and seek relief endary 88th Infantry Division, the first plying the law. Mr. Palk will serve through class action lawsuits. I op- all-draftee division to serve in combat Oklahoma with distinction as a prin- posed this rule repeal. during the war. The 88th, known as the cipled jurist who will uphold the Con- In 2010, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Fighting Blue Devils, proved that with stitution. Reform and Consumer Protection Act rigorous training, able leadership, and He is going to be confirmed. We know included a provision instructing the unflagging determination, peace-loving he is going to be confirmed because he CFPB to study mandatory arbitration Americans could stand up to a battle- already received 79 votes. There is no and write a rule based on what they hardened, militaristic enemy. reason to delay it, other than to hold found. After several years of careful The 88th played a key role at the people here and be obstructionists. I study, the CFPB released a 728-page re- Battle of Anzio, the long, costly, and would urge my friends on the other port in 2015. This year, the CFPB final- critically important amphibious land- side of the aisle to go ahead and con- ized its arbitration rule mandating ing on the Italian coast in January of firm the guy. He is going to do a great that consumer financial product con- 1944 that eventually led to the libera- job. tracts no longer include language bar- tion of Rome. Mr. Lincoln served as a I suggest the absence of a quorum. ring class actions. first scout, an extremely dangerous as- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. This rule was an important step for- signment in a forward position under TILLIS). The clerk will call the roll. ward in protecting consumers from the constant fire, to locate enemy artillery The senior assistant legislative clerk fine print arbitration clauses included positions. When the Allies liberated proceeded to call the roll. in all sorts of contracts, including con- Rome on June 4, 1944, the all-draftee

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.063 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6813 88th was the first division to enter the senior sergeant on a special forces de- In her memory, I would ask that we city. It was Mr. Lincoln’s 18th birth- tachment, Owen led his team on three take a moment to reflect on her exem- day. He later was awarded the Bronze tours to Afghanistan until being seri- plary life and model of service. It is a Star for his heroism during that gruel- ously wounded. In 2013, Owen was se- privilege to honor Marjorie ing campaign. lected to serve as first sergeant for the Counsilman, and I want to offer my Victory came at a steep price. Be- headquarters company of the advanced condolences to her two daughters, tween the Battle of Anzio and the Ger- skills training battalion at Fort Bragg. Cathy Counsilman and Jill Morris, and man surrender in May of 1945, the After an extremely admirable career to the many friends and family mem- Fighting Blue Devils spent 344 days in serving his country, Owen will retire bers she leaves behind. We will con- combat, with nearly 3,000 killed and on October 30, 2017. tinue to honor her legacy and generous more than 9,200 wounded. Owen received multiple awards dur- spirit.∑ After returning home, Mr. Lincoln ing his 27 years with the Armed Forces, f raised a family, served his community, including the Bronze Star Medal, Meri- and never forgot his comrades. Until he torious Service Medal, Purple Heart, MESSAGES FROM THE HOUSE suffered a stroke that hampered his Army Commendation Medal, Armed At 10:28 a.m., a message from the mobility, he marched in 58 consecutive Forces Expeditionary Medal, Good Con- House of Representatives, delivered by Memorial Day parades in his home- duct Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- town. He never rode in a ceremonial Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Global nounced that the House has passed the car; he always marched. War on Terrorism Expeditionary following bills, in which it requests the In a speech to the Association of the Medal, Global War on Terrorism Serv- concurrence of the Senate: U.S. Army on October 9, Defense Sec- ice Medal, and Korea Service Medal. H.R. 732. An act to limit donations made retary James Mattis discussed the seri- I ask my colleagues to join me as I pursuant to settlement agreements to which ous current threats to peace and secu- proudly recognize the service and the the United States is a party, and for other rity facing our Nation and the world. sacrifice of MSG Owen Lawler, a dear purposes. ∑ H.R. 2142. An act to improve the ability of He told the story of Richard Lincoln to friend, patriot, and American hero. U.S. Customs and Border Protection to underscore his point that Americans f interdict fentanyl, other synthetic opioids, are always willing and able to meet REMEMBERING MARJORIE and other narcotics and psychoactive substances that are illegally imported into the any challenge. ‘‘MARGE’’ COUNSILMAN On October 14, family and friends United States, and for other purposes. gathered around Mr. Lincoln at the ∑ Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I am sad- H.R. 3101. An act to enhance cybersecurity Maine Veterans’ Home in Augusta, dened to report the recent passing of information sharing and coordination at ports in the United States, and for other pur- where he was presented with a personal Marjorie Counsilman, a treasured member of the Bloomington and Indi- poses. letter from Secretary Mattis and a H.R. 3898. An act to impose secondary sanc- book on the Battle of Anzio, inscribed ana University community. Mrs. tions with respect to North Korea, strength- by both Secretary Mattis and former Counsilman passed away on August 17, en international efforts to improve sanctions Defense Secretary William Cohen, 2017, at the age of 93. I join her family enforcement, and for other purposes. Maine’s former Senator. and friends in mourning the passing of H.R. 3972. An act to clarify that family of- Secretary Mattis’s handwritten note a beloved Hoosier, who was a dedicated fices and family clients are accredited investors, and for other purposes. to Mr. Lincoln includes these words: mother and mentor to countless Indi- ‘‘You have the respect and affection of ana swimmers. ENROLLED BILL AND JOINT RESOLUTION SIGNED today’s military. You and your broth- Mrs. Counsilman, or ‘‘Marge,’’ as she At 4:43 p.m., a message from the ers-in-arms are the pride of our coun- was affectionately known by her col- House of Representatives, delivered by try.’’ I am honored to join Secretary leagues, friends, and family, helped Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- Mattis and all grateful Americans in lead IU’s swim team to a string of na- nounced that the Speaker has signed thanking Mr. Richard Lincoln and all tional and Big Ten titles. Marge was the following enrolled bill and joint of the men and women who serve our the wife of the late IU swimming resolution: country. coach, James ‘‘Doc’’ Counsilman, who S. 504. An act to permanently authorize the led the Hoosiers to six consecutive Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business f NCAA championship victories, 23 Big Travel Card Program. ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS Ten titles, 52 broken world records, 154 H.J. Res. 111. Joint resolution providing for congressional disapproval under chapter 8 of American records, and 106 individual title 5, United States Code, of the rule sub- NCAA records. In 2013, Marge and Doc mitted by Bureau of Consumer Financial TRIBUTE TO MASTER SERGEANT were inaugurated into the Monroe OWEN LAWLER Protection relating to ‘‘Arbitration Agree- County Sports Hall of Fame. Trophies ments’’. ∑ Mrs. ERNST. Mr. President, today I aside, Marge was best known for her The enrolled bill and joint resolution wish to honor a living example of an compassion towards her fellow coaches, were subsequently signed by the Presi- American hero. MSG Owen Lawler has customers at her family-owned res- dent pro tempore (Mr. HATCH). spent a lifetime in service, committing taurant in Bloomington, and the ENROLLED BILL SIGNED nearly three decades to defending U.S. countless young swimmers she encoun- At 5:31 p.m., a message from the national security at home and abroad. tered over her decades of service. Her House of Representatives, delivered by Owen began his military service as impression on the sport stretches well Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- an infantryman with the Iowa National beyond the swimming lanes of Indiana. nounced that the Speaker has signed Guard in 1990 and attended basic train- In 2004, she was honored by the Inter- the following enrolled bill: ing at Fort Benning in Georgia. He en- national Swimming Hall of Fame as a H.R. 2266. An act making additional sup- tered Active service in 1993 and served ‘‘Grande Dame’’ for her leadership and plemental appropriations for disaster relief in the 2nd Infantry Division in Korea, influence. requirements for the fiscal year ending Sep- among other roles. In 1999, Owen was In 2012, Mrs. Counsilman received the tember 30, 2018, and for other purposes. selected for special forces training, and Bill Orwig Award, which recognizes ex- The enrolled bill was subsequently in 2001 he was assigned 5th Special ceptional contributions made by non- signed by the President pro tempore Forces Group at Fort Campbell in Ken- alumnus to IU’s athletic program. (Mr. HATCH). tucky. Shortly after the 9/11 attacks, Marge was constantly hosting team f Owen participated in the invasion of dinners, running swim meets, and Afghanistan and went on to serve four keeping the official records. Through- MEASURES REFERRED more tours in Iraq. In 2009, Owen was out her husband Doc’s 33 years at IU, The following bills were read the first assigned to the 3rd Special Forces Marge acted as a substitute mother for and the second times by unanimous Group at Fort Bragg, where he served all the collegiate swimmers, either pro- consent, and referred as indicated: as a team sergeant for a special forces viding help with assignments or offer- H.R. 732. An act to limit donations made A-team. During his assignment as the ing her famous lasagna and pecan pie. pursuant to settlement agreements to which

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 Jan 27, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\OCTOBER\S25OC7.REC S25OC7 S6814 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 the United States is a party, and for other mitting, pursuant to law, a report relative to life of those that could truly benefit from its purposes; to the Committee on the Judici- the Strategic Plan for the Department of use; Now, therefore, be it ary. Health and Human Services for fiscal years Resolved by the Senate and the Assembly of H.R. 3101. An act to enhance cybersecurity 2018 - 2022; to the Committee on Health, Edu- the State of California, jointly, That the Legis- information sharing and coordination at cation, Labor, and Pensions. lature urges the Congress of the United ports in the United States, and for other pur- EC–3274. A communication from the Direc- States to pass a law to reschedule marijuana poses; to the Committee on Commerce, tor of Regulation Policy and Management, or cannabis and its derivatives from a Sched- Science, and Transportation. Department of Veterans Affairs, transmit- ule I drug to an alternative schedule, there- H.R. 3898. An act to impose secondary sanc- ting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule en- fore allowing the legal research and develop- tions with respect to North Korea, strength- titled ‘‘Veterans’ Mortgage Life Insurance— ment of marijuana or cannabis for medical en international efforts to improve sanctions Coverage Amendment’’ (RIN2900–AP49) re- use and allowing for the legal commerce of enforcement, and for other purposes; to the ceived in the Office of the President of the marijuana or cannabis so that businesses Committee on Foreign Relations. Senate on October 23, 2017; to the Committee dealing with marijuana or cannabis can use H.R. 3972. An act to clarify that family of- on Veterans’ Affairs. traditional banks or financial institutions fices and family clients are accredited inves- f for their banking needs, which would result tors, and for other purposes; to the Com- in providing a legal vehicle for those busi- mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- PETITIONS AND MEMORIALS nesses to pay their taxes, including, but not fairs. The following petitions and memo- limited to, payroll taxes, unsecured property f rials were laid before the Senate and taxes, and applicable taxes on the products sold in accordance with state and local laws; EXECUTIVE AND OTHER were referred or ordered to lie on the and be it further COMMUNICATIONS table as indicated: Resolved, That the Legislature urges the The following communications were POM–124. A joint resolution adopted by the President of the United States to sign such laid before the Senate, together with Legislature of the State of California rel- legislation; and be it further accompanying papers, reports, and doc- ative to federal rescheduling of marijuana Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate from a schedule 1 drug; to the Committee on transmit copies of this resolution to the uments, and were referred as indicated: the Judiciary. President and Vice President of the United EC–3267. A communication from the Presi- SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 5 States, to the Speaker of the House of Rep- dent of the United States, transmitting, pur- resentatives, to the Majority Leader of the suant to law, a report relative to the Whereas, Marijuana and its derivatives remain classified as a Schedule I drug by the United States Senate, to each Senator and issuance of an Executive Order that amends Representative from California in the Con- Executive Order 13223 of September 14, 2011; United States Drug Enforcement Adminis- tration (DEA); and gress of the United States, and to the author to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and for appropriate distribution. Urban Affairs. Whereas, Schedule I drugs, substances, or chemicals are defined as drugs with no cur- EC–3268. A communication from the Sec- POM–125. A joint resolution adopted by the retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- rently accepted medical, use and a high potential for abuse and include heroin, lysergic Legislature of the State of California rel- ant to law, a six-month periodic report on ative to the California Nonmotorized Trails the national emergency that was declared in acid diethylarnide (LSD); marijuana or cannabis, 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine Master Plan, to the Committee on Environ- Executive Order 13712 of November 22, 2015, ment and Public Works. with respect to Burundi; to the Committee (ecstasy), methaqualone (Quaalude); and pe- SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 8 on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. yote; and EC–3269. A communication from the Chief Whereas, Marijuana or cannabis and its Whereas, California established significant of the Competition Policy Division, Wireline congeners have been studied worldwide out- greenhouse gas emission reduction targets Competition Bureau, Federal Communica- side the United States for years and have for 2020 through the California Global Warm- tions Commission, transmitting, pursuant to shown efficacy for various conditions, such ing Solutions Act of 2006 and for 2050 through law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Modern- as wasting syndrome, as an antinauseant in Executive Order S–3–05; and izing Common Carrier Rules’’ ((FCC 17–112) those taking chemotherapy, Glaucoma (re- Whereas, In 1974, the California Rec- (WC Docket No. 15–33)) received during ad- duces intraocular pressure), Epilepsy (anti- reational Trails Act was enacted to increase journment of the Senate in the Office of the seizure properties), migraine headaches and accessibility and enhance the use, enjoy- President of the Senate on October 20, 2017; other types of pain, and anxiety; and ment, and understanding of California’s sce- to the Committee on Commerce, Science, Whereas, The medical and recreational use nic, natural, historic, and cultural resources; and Transportation. of marijuana in the State of California has and EC–3270. A communication from the Dep- been authorized by the voters through initia- Whereas, The act and the California Rec- uty Assistant Secretary, Employee Benefits tives; and reational Trails System Plan, which is pre- Security Administration, Department of Whereas, Marijuana or cannabis is pres- pared and continuously maintained by the Labor, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- ently classified by the DEA as a Schedule I Department of Parks and Recreation pursu- port of a rule entitled ‘‘Moral Exemptions drug wherein the possession, sale, or utiliza- ant to the act and in cooperation with the and Accommodations for Coverage of Certain tion can trigger federal prosecution statues, Department of Transportation, provides for Preventive Services Under the Affordable including federal forfeiture provisions; and both motorized and nonmotorized accessi- Care Act’’ (RIN0938–AT46) received in the Of- Whereas, Concerns about the criminality bility and use; and fice of the President of the Senate on Octo- and forfeiture provisions in federal law im- Whereas, In order to help meet those ber 16, 2017; to the Committee on Health, pede traditional banking institutions from greenhouse gas emission reduction targets, a Education, Labor, and Pensions. doing business with potential clients culti- California Nonmotorized Trails Master Plan EC–3271. A communication from the Chief vating, researching, selling, or utilizing is urgently needed to create a statewide plan of the Publications and Regulations Branch, marijuana or cannabis and its derivatives, and timeline for a coordinated network of Internal Revenue Service, Department of the therefore making marijuana commerce very California trails for walking, hiking, biking, Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the difficult; and horseback riding, and other forms of non- report of a rule entitled ‘‘Religious Exemp- Whereas, The inability to use traditional motorized transportation in both urban and tions and Accommodations for Coverage of banking institutions impedes local and state rural regions; and Certain Preventive Services Under the Af- government from adequately monitoring Whereas, Human-powered, nonmotorized fordable Care Act’’ ((RIN1545–BN92) (TD true marijuana or cannabis utilization and transportation can serve the dual purposes of 9827)) received in the Office of the President shortchanges the respective taxes owed to providing healthy exercise for citizens and of the Senate on October 16, 2017; to the Com- taxing agencies, potentially costing state transporting them from one location to an- mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and and local governments hundreds of millions other with a zero-carbon footprint; and Pensions. of dollars in lost tax income; and Whereas, Many of California’s local enti- EC–3272. A communication from the Chief Whereas, Since marijuana, or cannabis ties, including municipalities, public agen- of the Publications and Regulations Branch, businesses are unable to legally use tradi- cies, private organizations, and individual Internal Revenue Service, Department of the tional banking institutions, many vendors citizens, are currently in the process of de- Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the resort to the black market and involvement veloping their own local trails master plans report of a rule entitled ‘‘Moral Exemptions of organized crime making communities less in their neighborhoods, cities, counties, or and Accommodations for Coverage of Certain safe; and regions that are designed to create avenues Preventive Services Under the Affordable Whereas, Marijuana or cannabis and its de- for environmentally friendly methods of Care Act’’ ((RIN1545–BN91) (TD 9828)) re- rivatives cannot be legally studied by re- nonmotorized transportation and that are ceived in the Office of the President of the search institutions if it remains a Schedule I likely to expand rural economic development Senate on October 16, 2017; to the Committee drug, thereby prohibiting newly discovered benefits and outcomes; and on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. and verifiable pharmacological attributes of Whereas, According to a 2014 report issued EC–3273. A communication from the Sec- marijuana or cannabis and its deriatives, by the Governors Highway Safety Associa- retary of Health and Human Services, trans- which otherwise may enhance the quality of tion, 338 cyclists were killed in collisions

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.003 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6815 with motor vehicles in California between fornia, and a staple of Native American Resolved by the Senate and the Assembly of 2010 and 2012, the most in any state; and diets, since time immemorial; and the State of California, jointly, That the Legis- Whereas, Other states, including New Whereas, The California salmon fishery is lature urges state departments and agencies, York, have found that a coordinated non- among the oldest and most important his- including the Natural Resources Agency, the motorized trails network offers myriad toric commercial fisheries in California, and California Environmental Protection Agen- health benefits and valuable experiences, in- among the most iconic commercial, rec- cy, the Department of Fish and Wildlife, the cluding hiking, biking, cross-country skiing, reational, and tribal fisheries in the United Wildlife Conservation Board, the Depart- taking short nature walks, touring, includ- States; and ment of Water Resources, the Central Valley ing agricultural touring, exploring green- Whereas, The California Bay-Delta eco- Flood Protection Board, and the State Water ways, parklands, and rural agricultural system, including the rivers that flow into Resources Control Board, to make collabo- lands, and other nonvehicular experiences in it, is the most important salmon-producing rative, statewide salmon fishery restoration the unique settings of local communities, system south of the Columbia River; and an urgent and high priority; and be it further and that these related activities bring com- Whereas, The Klamath and Trinity Rivers Resolved, That the Legislature urges fed- mercial opportunities to those communities; are home to culturally and commercially im- eral departments and agencies, including the and portant, and biologically unique, salmon Department of the Interior, the Bureau of Whereas, The federal Recreational Trails runs; and Reclamation, the United States Fish and Program is a Federal Highway Administra- Whereas, The California salmon fishery an- Wildlife Service, and the National Marine tion assistance program that provides fed- nually draws a vast amount of trade and Fisheries Service, to make collaborative, eral funds to states to develop and maintain tourism to California; and statewide salmon fishery restoration an ur- recreational trails in both urban and rural Whereas, A decade ago, the California gent and high priority; and be it further regions for motorized and nonmotorized rec- salmon fishery supported 23,000 jobs and $1.4 Resolved, That the Legislature urges the reational trail use; and billion in economic activity; and federal government to undertake all appro- Whereas, California’s rural regions have Whereas, California salmon contains high priate measures to provide necessary dis- limited access to networks of nonmotorized levels of omega–3 fatty acids, offers abun- aster relief for California salmon fisheries recreational trails; and dant health benefits for Californians, includ- for 2016 and 2017; and be it further Whereas, There is currently no deadline to ing lower cholesterol and lower risk of skin Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate complete and connect the state’s many di- and breast cancer, and is delicious; and transmit copies of this resolution to the Sec- verse and separate trails into a statewide co- Whereas, Salmon runs are responsible for retary of the Natural Resources Agency, to ordinated nonmotorized transportation net- the largest transfer of biomass from the the Secretary for Environmental Protection, work in both urban and rural regions: Now, oceans to the land on the planet and are to the Director of Fish and Wildlife, to the therefore, be it vital to the healthy functioning of eco- Executive Director of the Wildlife Conserva- Resolved by the Senate and the Assembly of systems from the coast to the mountains; tion Board, to the Director of Water Re- the State of California, jointly, That the Legis- and sources, to the President of the Central Val- lature requests the Governor to designate Whereas, Salmon spawned in California ley Flood Protection Board, to the Chair- the Department of Parks and Recreation and rivers are caught by fishermen in Oregon, person of the State Water Resources Control the Department of Transportation, in part- Washington, British Columbia, and as far Board, to the Secretary of the Interior, to nership with the National Park Service and away as Alaska; and the Commissioner of Reclamation, to the As- other relevant federal, state, regional, and Whereas, The health of a salmon popu- sistant Secretary for Fish and Wildlife and local agencies, private organizations, and in- lation is an important benchmark of the Parks, to the Assistant Administrator for dividual citizens, to accelerate the planning, health of its native rivers and ecosystems; Fisheries, to the President and Vice Presi- creation, and completion timelines for a and dent of the United States, to the Speaker of California Nonmotorized Trails Master Plan Whereas, The Fish and Game Code and the the House of Representatives, to the Major- for urban and rural regions to expand oppor- State Water Resources Control Board Bay- ity Leader of the Senate, to each Senator tunities for all Californians to benefit from Delta Water Quality Control Plan establish and Representative from California in the new recreational, tourist, and economic de- the doubling of wild salmon populations as Congress of the United States, and to the au- velopment options in their daily lives, which state policy; and thor for appropriate distribution. will reduce the overall usage of fossil-fuel Whereas, The California salmon fishery powered vehicles for public transportation was closed from 2008 to 2009 due to declining POM–127. A resolution adopted by the Sen- and create a safer environment for pedes- populations and fish kill of salmon resulting ate of the State of Michigan urging the trians and bicyclists who use nonmotorized from decreased river flows and warm water President of the United States and the transportation trails networks to walk or conditions that caused direct mortality, United States Congress to recognize the Re- ride; and be it further leading to dramatic impacts on the fishing public of Nagorno-Karabakh, also known as Resolved, That the Legislature requests the industry and fishing-dependent commu- Artsakh, to establish economic and cultural Governor to request the President, Members nities; and ties with the nation, and to support the of Congress, and the Federal Highway Ad- Whereas, Salmon populations have de- peace and stability of the South Caucasus; to ministration, through its Recreational clined during California’s historic drought; the Committee on Foreign Relations. and Trails Program, to dedicate increased fund- SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 99 ing to California to accelerate and support Whereas, Depressed salmon populations in Whereas, The region of Artsakh is located the planning and development of the Cali- 2015 and 2016 have resulted in a shorter fish- in the South Caucasus and has historically fornia Nonmotorized Trails Master Plan as ing season, a reduction in landed fish from been Armenian territory. The region is popu- an expanded network of nonmotorized rec- 981,000 annually from 1986 to 1990, inclusive, lated by an overwhelming majority of Arme- reational trails in rural and urban regions of to 92,000 in 2016, and severe hardship to the nians; and the state and to accelerate the completion of fishing industry and fishing-dependent com- Whereas, Despite its historical and cul- existing nonmotorized recreational trails, munities; and Whereas, Many salmon populations in Cali- tural ties to Armenia, in 1921, Joseph Stalin including the California Coastal Trail; and fornia are listed as endangered or threatened arbitrarily severed Artsakh from Armenia, be it further under the California Endangered Species Act and in violation of the national, territorial, Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate or the federal Endangered Species Act of and human rights of the Armenian people, transmit copies of this resolution to the 1973, or both, including Central Valley win- the severed region of Artsakh was placed President and Vice President of the United ter-run and spring-run Chinook salmon, Cali- under the administration of Soviet Azer- States, to the Speaker of the House of Rep- fornia Coastal Chinook salmon, and all coho baijani; and resentatives, to the Majority Leader of the salmon; and Whereas, For decades, the Armenian peo- Senate, to each Senator and Representative Whereas, The United States Secretary of ples’ peaceful demonstrations for national from California in the Congress of the United Commerce determined a commercial fishery independence, for individual freedom, and in States, and to the author for appropriate dis- failure for the Yurok Tribe Klamath River opposition to the Soviet Azerbaijani repres- tribution. Chinook salmon fishery in 2016 due to a fish- sion and discrimination were met with acts ery resource disaster; and of violent repression by Soviet Azerbaijani POM–126. A joint resolution adopted by the Whereas, On May 24, 2017, the Governors of forces who refused to allow the self-deter- Legislature of the State of California urging California and Oregon urged the Secretary of mination of the people of Artsakh. Soviet state and federal departments and agencies Commerce to expedite declaration of a fish- Azerbaijani’s bloody response resulted in the to make collaborative, statewide salmon ery resource disaster for California and Or- deaths of ethnic Armenians in Sumgait (Feb- fishery restoration an urgent and high pri- egon for the 2016 and 2017 seasons; and ruary 1988), Kirovabad (February 1988), and ority; to the Committee on Commerce, Whereas, It is critical that further com- Baku (January 1990) and the forced deporta- Science, and Transportation. mercial fishery failure determinations be tion of more than 350,000 Armenians from Az- SENATE JOINT RESOLUTION NO. 7 made, fishery resource disasters declared, erbaijani. In the aftermath of the Sumgait Whereas, Salmon has been a fundamental and disaster relief provided, for California tragedy, the United States Senate unani- and irreplaceable part of the cultural tradi- salmon fisheries for 2016 and 2017: Now, mously passed Amendment 2690 to the Fiscal tions of Native American tribes in Cali- therefore, be it Year 1989 Foreign Operations Appropriations

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.006 S25OCPT1 S6816 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 bill (H.R. 4782), concerning the Karabakh EXECUTIVE REPORTS OF S. 2007. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- conflict and called on the Soviet government COMMITTEES enue Code of 1986 to increase the exclusion to ‘‘respect the legitimate aspirations of the for educational assistance programs; to the Armenian people...’’ and noted that ‘‘doz- The following executive reports of Committee on Finance. ens of Armenians have been killed and in- nominations were submitted: By Mrs. SHAHEEN (for herself and Ms. jured during the recent unrests...‘‘; and By Mr. BARRASSO for the Committee on HASSAN): Whereas, The people of Artsakh over- Environment and Public Works. S. 2008. A bill to combat the opioid epi- whelmingly voted to support independence. *Michael Dourson, of Ohio, to be Assistant demic and drug sample backlogs; to the On December 10, 1991, despite continued vio- Administrator for Toxic Substances of the Committee on the Judiciary. lence against the people of Artsakh, a pop- Environmental Protection Agency. By Mr. MURPHY (for himself, Mr. *Jeffery Martin Baran, of Virginia, to be a ular referendum proclaiming an independent BLUMENTHAL, Mr. MARKEY, Mrs. Member of the Nuclear Regulatory Commis- republic took place during the disintegration GILLIBRAND, Mr. DURBIN, Mr. HEIN- sion for the term of five years expiring June of the Soviet Union. Under the watchful eye RICH, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Ms. WARREN, of more than 50 international observers, and 30, 2023. *Matthew Z. Leopold, of Florida, to be an Mr. BOOKER, Mr. CARPER, Mrs. MUR- in full compliance with international stand- RAY, Mrs. FEINSTEIN, Mr. CASEY, Mr. ards for a free and fair election, more than 80 Assistant Administrator of the Environ- SCHUMER, Ms. HASSAN, Ms. HIRONO, percent of eligible voters cast a ballot, and mental Protection Agency. Ms. HARRIS, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Ms. the measure passed with 98 percent in favor. *David Ross, of Wisconsin, to be an Assist- DUCKWORTH, Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, Mr. On January 6, 1992, the democratically-elect- ant Administrator of the Environmental SANDERS, Mr. BENNET, Mr. CARDIN, ed Parliament of Artsakh adopted the Dec- Protection Agency. *William L. Wehrum, of Delaware, to be an Mr. REED, Mr. UDALL, Mr. LEAHY, Mr. laration of Independence of the Nagorno- Assistant Administrator of the Environ- WYDEN, Mr. KAINE, Ms. BALDWIN, Mr. Karabakh Republic; and Whereas, Despite a cease-fire agreement mental Protection Agency. MENENDEZ, and Mr. NELSON): *Paul Trombino III, of Wisconsin, to be Ad- between the Republic of Artsakh, Azer- S. 2009. A bill to require a background ministrator of the Federal Highway Admin- baijani, and Armenia that ended years of in- check for every firearm sale; to the Com- istration. tense fighting, the security and sovereignty mittee on the Judiciary. By Mr. ISAKSON for the Committee on By Mr. BURR: of Artsakh continue to be threatened by re- Veterans’ Affairs. gional tension and hostile acts. The Arme- *Melissa Sue Glynn, of the District of Co- S. 2010. An original bill to extend the FISA nians of Artsakh remain resolute in their ef- lumbia, to be an Assistant Secretary of Vet- Amendments Act of 2008 for 8 years, and for forts to exercise the right to self-determina- erans Affairs (Enterprise Integration). other purposes; from the Select Committee tion and live free from violence and repres- *Cheryl L. Mason, of Virginia, to be Chair- on Intelligence; placed on the calendar. sion, and by recognizing the government of man of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals for a By Mr. SANDERS (for himself, Mr. Artsakh, the international community can term of six years. REED, Mr. LEAHY, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, help put to rest this century-old conflict; *Randy Reeves, of Mississippi, to be Under Ms. HARRIS, Mr. FRANKEN, and Ms. Now, therefore, be it Secretary of Veterans Affairs for Memorial WARREN): Resolved by the Senate, That we urge the Affairs. S. 2011. A bill to amend title XVIII of the President and Congress of the United States *Nomination was reported with rec- Social Security Act to provide for the nego- to recognize a free and independent Republic tiation of lower covered part D drug prices of Artsakh; and be it further ommendation that it be confirmed subject to the nominee’s commitment to on behalf of Medicare beneficiaries and the Resolved, That we memorialize the United establishment and application of a for- States government to strengthen and solid- respond to requests to appear and tes- mulary by the Secretary of Health and ify our country’s economic and cultural rela- tify before any duly constituted com- Human Services under Medicare part D, and tionship with the Artsakh Republic and its mittee of the Senate. for other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- citizens and continue to promote the human- f nance. itarian and economic rehabilitation of the INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND By Mr. HOEVEN (for himself, Ms. MUR- region; and be it further KOWSKI, and Ms. HEITKAMP): Resolved, That we support the Republic of JOINT RESOLUTIONS S. 2012. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Artsakh’s continued efforts within the inter- The following bills and joint resolu- national community to reach a lasting solu- enue Code of 1986 to make permanent the In- tion to the existing regional problems and tions were introduced, read the first dian Employment Credit and the deprecia- establish peace and stability in the strategi- and second times by unanimous con- tion rules for business property on Indian cally important region of South Caucasus; sent, and referred as indicated: reservations, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Finance. and be it further By Mr. HATCH: Resolved, That copies of this resolution be S. 2003. A bill to modernize the regulation transmitted to the President of the United of cosmetics; to the Committee on Health, f States, the President of the United States Education, Labor, and Pensions. Senate, the Speaker of the United States By Mr. CASEY (for himself, Mr. MAR- SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND House of Representatives, and the members KEY, Ms. HASSAN, Mr. HEINRICH, Mrs. SENATE RESOLUTIONS of the Michigan congressional delegation. SHAHEEN, Mr. KAINE, Mrs. FEINSTEIN, Ms. KLOBUCHAR, Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. The following concurrent resolutions POM–128. A resolution adopted by the KING, Ms. BALDWIN, Ms. WARREN, Mr. and Senate resolutions were read, and Alpena County Board of Commissioners, BROWN, Mr. MENENDEZ, Ms. HARRIS, Alpena, Michigan, opposing slashing federal referred (or acted upon), as indicated: Mr. UDALL, and Mr. NELSON): By Ms. WARREN (for herself, Mr. funding for the Great Lakes Restoration Ini- S. 2004. A bill to increase funding for the GRASSLEY, and Ms. HASSAN): tiative; to the Committee on Environment State response to the opioid misuse crisis and Public Works. and to provide funding for research on addic- S. Res. 303. A resolution expressing support for the designation of October 2017 as ‘‘Na- POM–129. A resolution adopted by the tion and pain related to the substance misuse crisis; to the Committee on Health, Edu- tional Audiology Awareness Month’’; to the Eaton County Board of Commissioners, Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Charlotte, Michigan, opposing slashing fed- cation, Labor, and Pensions. By Mr. COONS (for himself, Mr. Pensions. eral funding for the Great Lakes Restoration By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself and MORAN, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. GARDNER, Initiative; to the Committee on Environ- Ms. HIRONO): ment and Public Works. Mr. BENNET, Ms. MURKOWSKI, Mr. KING, Ms. COLLINS, and Mr. HEIN- S. Res. 304. A resolution expressing the f sense of the Senate that entrepreneurship on RICH): REPORTS OF COMMITTEES S. 2005. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- the part of minority women-owned busi- The following reports of committees enue Code of 1986 to extend the publicly trad- nesses should be fully supported and encour- ed partnership ownership structure to energy aged; to the Committee on Health, Edu- were submitted: cation, Labor, and Pensions. By Mr. THUNE, from the Committee on power generation projects and transportation fuels, and for other purposes; to the By Ms. HIRONO (for herself, Ms. Commerce, Science, and Transportation, DUCKWORTH, Ms. MURKOWSKI, Mr. with an amendment in the nature of a sub- Committee on Finance. By Mrs. FEINSTEIN (for herself and KAINE, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. HELLER, stitute: Mrs. FEINSTEIN, Mr. MENENDEZ, Ms. S. 763. A bill to improve surface and mari- Mr. HELLER): CORTEZ MASTO, Ms. CANTWELL, Mr. time transportation security (Rept. No. 115– S. 2006. A bill to require breast density re- BOOKER, Mr. BROWN, Mrs. MURRAY, 178). porting to physicians and patients by facili- By Mr. BURR, from the Select Committee ties that perform mammograms, and for Mr. DURBIN, Ms. HARRIS, Ms. KLO- on Intelligence, without amendment: other purposes; to the Committee on Health, BUCHAR, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. S. 2010. An original bill to extend the FISA Education, Labor, and Pensions. SCHATZ, and Mr. FRANKEN): Amendments Act of 2008 for 8 years, and for By Mr. FLAKE (for himself and Ms. S. Res. 305. A resolution recognizing the other purposes. CORTEZ MASTO): month of October 2017 as Filipino American

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:24 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.008 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6817 History Month and celebrating the history the Federal Pell Grant program, and (Mr. DONNELLY) and the Senator from and culture of Filipino Americans and their for other purposes. Mississippi (Mr. COCHRAN) were added immense contributions to the United States; S. 1161 as cosponsors of S. 1899, a bill to reau- considered and agreed to. thorize and extend funding for commu- By Mr. FRANKEN (for himself, Mr. At the request of Ms. DUCKWORTH, HATCH, and Mr. WICKER): the name of the Senator from Wis- nity health centers and the National S. Res. 306. A resolution recognizing the consin (Ms. BALDWIN) was added as a Health Service Corps. month of October 2017 as ‘‘National Prin- cosponsor of S. 1161, a bill to amend S. 1942 cipals Month’’; considered and agreed to. title 38, United States Code, to elimi- At the request of Ms. HEITKAMP, the By Mr. HOEVEN (for himself, Ms. nate copayments by the Department of name of the Senator from Alaska (Ms. HEITKAMP, Mr. PETERS, Mr. ROBERTS, Veterans Affairs for medicines relating MURKOWSKI) was added as a cosponsor Mr. TESTER, and Ms. WARREN): to preventative health services, and for S. Res. 307. A resolution designating Octo- of S. 1942, a bill to direct the Attorney ber 26, 2017, as ‘‘Day of the Deployed’’; con- other purposes. General to review, revise, and develop sidered and agreed to. S. 1361 law enforcement and justice protocols f At the request of Mr. CRAPO, the appropriate to address missing and name of the Senator from South Da- murdered Indians, and for other pur- ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS kota (Mr. ROUNDS) was added as a co- poses. S. 109 sponsor of S. 1361, a bill to amend title S. 1953 At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the XVIII of the Social Security Act to At the request of Mr. HOEVEN, the name of the Senator from Wisconsin allow physician assistants, nurse prac- name of the Senator from Alaska (Ms. (Ms. BALDWIN) was added as a cospon- titioners, and clinical nurse specialists MURKOWSKI) was added as a cosponsor sor of S. 109, a bill to amend title XVIII to supervise cardiac, intensive cardiac, of S. 1953, a bill to amend the Tribal of the Social Security Act to provide and pulmonary rehabilitation pro- Law and Order Act of 2010 and the In- for coverage under the Medicare programs. dian Law Enforcement Reform Act to gram of pharmacist services. S. 1503 provide for advancements in public S. 194 At the request of Ms. WARREN, the safety services to Indian communities, At the request of Mr. WHITEHOUSE, name of the Senator from Maine (Mr. and for other purposes. KING) was added as a cosponsor of S. the name of the Senator from Wis- S. 1967 1503, a bill to require the Secretary of consin (Ms. BALDWIN) was added as a At the request of Mr. COTTON, the the Treasury to mint coins in recogni- cosponsor of S. 194, a bill to amend the name of the Senator from Arkansas tion of the 60th anniversary of the Public Health Service Act to establish (Mr. BOOZMAN) was added as a cospon- Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of a public health insurance option, and sor of S. 1967, a bill to amend the Inter- Fame. for other purposes. nal Revenue Code of 1986 to provide ad- S. 1674 S. 292 ditional exemptions to the individual At the request of Mr. REED, the name At the request of Mr. REED, the mandate, and for other purposes. of the Senator from Illinois (Ms. names of the Senator from Nebraska S. 1979 DUCKWORTH) was added as a cosponsor (Mrs. FISCHER) and the Senator from of S. 1674, a bill to provide grants for At the request of Mr. MURPHY, the Minnesota (Mr. FRANKEN) were added the repair, renovation, and construc- name of the Senator from New Mexico as cosponsors of S. 292, a bill to maxi- (Mr. UDALL) was added as a cosponsor mize discovery, and accelerate develop- tion of public elementary schools and secondary schools, to establish a school of S. 1979, a bill to block the implemen- ment and availability, of promising tation of certain presidential actions childhood cancer treatments, and for infrastructure bond program, and for other purposes. that restrict individuals from certain other purposes. countries from entering the United S. 1753 S. 301 States. At the request of Mr. HELLER, the At the request of Mr. LANKFORD, the name of the Senator from Georgia (Mr. S. 1997 name of the Senator from North Da- PERDUE) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mr. WYDEN, the kota (Mr. HOEVEN) was added as a co- 1753, a bill to amend the S.A.F.E. Mort- name of the Senator from Minnesota sponsor of S. 301, a bill to amend the gage Licensing Act of 2008 to provide a (Mr. FRANKEN) was added as a cospon- Public Health Service Act to prohibit temporary license for loan originators sor of S. 1997, a bill to amend the For- governmental discrimination against transitioning between employers, and eign Intelligence Surveillance Act of providers of health services that are for other purposes. 1978 to protect privacy rights, and for not involved in abortion. S. 1790 other purposes. S. 497 At the request of Mr. BURR, the name S. RES. 250 At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the of the Senator from Oregon (Mr. At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the name of the Senator from Wisconsin MERKLEY) was added as a cosponsor of name of the Senator from Pennsyl- (Mr. JOHNSON) was added as a cosponsor S. 1790, a bill to amend the Internal vania (Mr. CASEY) was added as a co- of S. 497, a bill to amend title XVIII of Revenue Code of 1986 to improve col- sponsor of S. Res. 250, a resolution con- the Social Security Act to provide for lege savings under section 529 pro- demning horrific acts of violence Medicare coverage of certain grams, and for other purposes. against Burma’s Rohingya population lymphedema compression treatment S. 1827 and calling on Aung San Suu Kyi to items as items of durable medical At the request of Mr. WYDEN, the play an active role in ending this hu- equipment. name of the Senator from Hawaii (Ms. manitarian tragedy. S. 989 HIRONO) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. RES. 297 At the request of Mr. BLUNT, the 1827, a bill to extend funding for the At the request of Mr. FRANKEN, the name of the Senator from New Hamp- Children’s Health Insurance Program, name of the Senator from Maine (Ms. shire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added as a co- and for other purposes. COLLINS) was added as a cosponsor of S. sponsor of S. 989, a bill to amend the S. 1870 Res. 297, a resolution supporting Lights Public Health Service Act to provide At the request of Mr. HOEVEN, the On Afterschool, a national celebration for the participation of pediatric sub- name of the Senator from Alaska (Ms. of afterschool programs held on Octo- specialists in the National Health Serv- MURKOWSKI) was added as a cosponsor ber 26, 2017. ice Corps program, and for other pur- of S. 1870, a bill to amend the Victims poses. of Crime Act of 1984 to secure urgent f S. 1136 resources vital to Indian victims of At the request of Ms. HIRONO, the crime, and for other purposes. STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED name of the Senator from Illinois (Mr. S. 1899 BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS DURBIN) was added as a cosponsor of S. At the request of Mr. BLUNT, the By Mrs. FEINSTEIN (for herself 1136, a bill to improve the structure of names of the Senator from Indiana and Mr. HELLER):

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.012 S25OCPT1 S6818 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 S. 2006. A bill to require breast den- info, Tigerlily Foundation, Prevent SENATE RESOLUTION 304—EX- sity reporting to physicians and pa- Cancer Foundation, Facing Our Risk of PRESSING THE SENSE OF THE tients by facilities that perform mam- Cancer Empowered, Don’t be a Chump! SENATE THAT ENTREPRENEUR- mograms, and for other purposes; to Check for a Lump!, Sharsheret, Na- SHIP ON THE PART OF MINOR- the Committee on Health, Education, tional Association of Nurse Practi- ITY WOMEN-OWNED BUSINESSES Labor, and Pensions. tioners in Women’s Health, Black SHOULD BE FULLY SUPPORTED Mrs. FEINSTEIN. Mr. President, I Women’s Health Imperative, and Men AND ENCOURAGED rise today to introduce the ‘‘Breast Against Breast Cancer. Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself and Density and Mammography Reporting I look forward to working with my Ms. HIRONO) submitted the following Act,’’ a simple, yet potentially life-sav- colleagues on this important issue, and resolution; which was referred to the ing solution to ensure that women re- I urge my fellow Senators to cosponsor Committee on Health, Education, ceive their own medical information. I the Breast Density and Mammography Labor, and Pensions: thank Senator HELLER for working Reporting Act. Thank you Mr. Presi- S. RES. 304 with me on this bipartisan bill and I dent and I yield the floor. Whereas the number of women-owned appreciate Representatives DELAURO small businesses increased by 3,500,000 from and FITZPATRICK for introducing a f 2007 to 2016; House companion to this legislation. Whereas, for every 10 women-owned busi- We have accomplished so much in the SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS nesses launched since 2007, 8 were started by treatment and diagnosis of breast can- women of color; cer, and it still continues to be the sec- Whereas women are now majority owners ond leading cause of death for women of 38 percent of all businesses in the United in the United States and the leading SENATE RESOLUTION 303—EX- States; cause of cancer death among Hispanic PRESSING SUPPORT FOR THE Whereas there are currently almost women. Mammograms have aided tre- DESIGNATION OF OCTOBER 2017 5,000,000 minority women-owned small businesses; mendously in early detection efforts, AS ‘‘NATIONAL AUDIOLOGY AWARENESS MONTH’’ Whereas minority women are the fastest helping many more women survive this growing group of entrepreneurs in the United diagnosis. Ms. WARREN (for herself, Mr. States; For women with dense breast tissue, GRASSLEY, and Ms. HASSAN) submitted Whereas African-American women own however, a mammogram may not be the following resolution; which was re- fully 49 percent of all African-American- capturing the whole picture. Dense ferred to the Committee on Health, owned businesses; breast tissue and cancer tumors look Education, Labor, and Pensions: Whereas Latina-owned firms employ 550,400 workers; similar on a mammogram and make S. RES. 303 cancer harder to detect in women with Whereas there are currently 922,700 Asian- Whereas, according to the Centers for Dis- American women-owned small businesses; higher breast density. Unfortunately, ease Control and Prevention, hearing loss is Whereas Native American and Alaska Na- many women are never told about their the third most common chronic physical tive women-owned small businesses gen- tissue density on the report they re- condition in the United States; erated $10,500,000,000 in revenues; and ceive after their screening, even Whereas the National Institute on Deaf- Whereas the number of Native Hawaiian though it is assessed and reported to ness and Other Communication Disorders and Pacific Islander women-owned small their health care provider. This leaves and the Centers for Disease Control and Pre- businesses more than doubled between 2007 women unaware their mammogram vention have found that 24 percent of adults and 2016: Now, therefore, be it in the United States, or 40,000,000 individ- could be missing signs of cancer. If a Resolved, That it is the sense of the Senate uals, may have noise-induced hearing loss in that— patient doesn’t have information to 1 or both ears; (1) October has been designated ‘‘National begin with, how would she know to ask Whereas, although the prevalence of hear- Women’s Small Business Month’’ by the her doctor about what additional ing loss increases with age, approximately 40 Small Business Administration; screening might be right for her? percent of individuals with hearing loss are (2) minority women often work in low-pay- There is currently no Federal re- under the age of 60; ing jobs in the traditional workforce, which quirement for women to receive notice Whereas people with hearing difficulty fre- means the gender salary gap, child care ex- that they have dense breast tissue on quently delay seeking assessment and treat- penses, and a lack of paid family leave im- their mammogram report. This bill ment for their hearing loss; pact women of color more severely than Whereas audiologists, whose academic and would require that women be informed other populations, and expanding access to clinical training provides the foundation for opportunities for entrepreneurship can help on the mammogram report, something patient management from birth through women of color get ahead economically, they already receive, if they have dense adulthood, are dedicated health care profes- serve their communities, and care for their breast tissue, as well as a recommenda- sionals who diagnose, treat, and manage families; tion that they talk with their health hearing loss and balance disorders; (3) minority women entrepreneurs are pav- care provider to discuss any questions Whereas audiologists treat patients in ing the way for women-owned businesses; and if they might benefit from addi- many different settings, including private (4) minority women entrepreneurs are an tional screening. The bill also requires practice, hospitals, schools, Veterans Health important segment of the domestic economy Administration hospitals, and otolaryn- the Department of Health and Human of the United States as well as the global gology offices; economy; and Services to focus on research and im- Whereas October 2017 would be an appro- (5) in order to sustain the economy of the proved screening for patients with priate month to designate as ‘‘National United States, Congress must fully support dense breast tissue. Audiology Awareness Month’’; and and encourage the growth of minority The bill does not impact State laws Whereas there is a need for greater aware- women-owned businesses. ness on the part of the public regarding and simply sets a minimum Federal f standard on a report that women al- issues related to the hearing and balance ready receive. Any State wishing to care provided by audiologists, including— SENATE RESOLUTION 305—RECOG- (1) the diagnosis and treatment options have additional reporting requirements NIZING THE MONTH OF OCTOBER available to the public; 2017 AS FILIPINO AMERICAN HIS- would be able to do so. Withholding (2) the research needs of audiologists; and from women their own medical infor- TORY MONTH AND CELEBRATING (3) the public policy implications of THE HISTORY AND CULTURE OF mation just does not make sense. Hav- changes in the field of audiology: Now, there- ing access to your breast tissue density fore, be it FILIPINO AMERICANS AND THEIR could mean the difference between Resolved, That the Senate— IMMENSE CONTRIBUTIONS TO catching breast cancer early and sur- (1) supports the designation of October 2017 THE UNITED STATES viving, or waiting until it’s too late. as ‘‘National Audiology Awareness Month’’; Ms. HIRONO (for herself, Ms. and This bipartisan bill has the support DUCKWORTH, Ms. MURKOWSKI, Mr. (2) applauds the actions of audiologists, in- of major cancer organizations, includ- cluding clinicians, researchers, and others KAINE, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. HELLER, ing American Cancer Society Cancer who strive to raise public awareness of hear- Mrs. FEINSTEIN, Mr. MENENDEZ, Ms. Action Network, Are You Dense Advo- ing and balance care by advancing the pro- CORTEZ MASTO, Ms. CANTWELL, Mr. cacy, Susan G. Komen, DenseBreast- fession of audiology. BOOKER, Mr. BROWN, Mrs. MURRAY, Mr.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.014 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6819 DURBIN, Ms. HARRIS, Ms. KLOBUCHAR, Whereas Filipino Americans play an inte- school, middle school, and high school prin- Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. SCHATZ, and Mr. gral role in the healthcare system of the cipals, and recognize the importance of prin- FRANKEN) submitted the following res- United States as nurses, doctors, and other cipals in ensuring that every child has access olution; which was considered and medical professionals; to a high-quality education: Now, therefore, agreed to: Whereas Filipino Americans have contrib- be it uted greatly to music, dance, literature, edu- Resolved, That the Senate— S. RES. 305 cation, business, journalism, sports, fashion, (1) recognizes the month of October 2017 as Whereas the earliest documented Filipino politics, government, science, technology, ‘‘National Principals Month’’; and presence in the continental United States the fine arts, and other fields that enrich the (2) honors the contribution of principals in was October 18, 1587, when the first ‘‘Luzones landscape of the United States; the elementary schools, middle schools, and Indios’’ arrived in Morro Bay, California, on Whereas, as mandated in the mission state- high schools of the United States by sup- board the Nuestra Sen˜ ora de Esperanza, a ment of the Filipino American National His- porting the goals and ideals of National Manila-built galleon ship; torical Society, efforts should continue to Principals Month. Whereas the Filipino American National promote the study of Filipino American his- f Historical Society recognizes 1763 as the year tory and culture because the roles of Filipino in which the first permanent Filipino settle- Americans and other people of color have SENATE RESOLUTION 307—DESIG- ment in the United States was established in largely been overlooked in the writing, NATING OCTOBER 26, 2017, AS St. Malo, Louisiana; teaching, and learning of the history of the ‘‘DAY OF THE DEPLOYED’’ Whereas the recognition of the first perma- United States; nent Filipino settlement in the United Whereas it is imperative for Filipino Mr. HOEVEN (for himself, Ms. States adds a new perspective to the history American youth to have positive role models HEITKAMP, Mr. PETERS, Mr. ROBERTS, of the United States by bringing attention to to instill— Mr. TESTER, and Ms. WARREN) sub- the economic, cultural, social, and other no- (1) the significance of education, committed the following resolution; which table contributions made by Filipino Ameri- plemented by the richness of Filipino Amer- was considered and agreed to: cans to the development of the United ican ethnicity; and S. RES. 307 States; (2) the value of the Filipino American leg- Whereas the Filipino American community acy; and Whereas more than 2,000,000 individuals is the second largest Asian American and Pa- Whereas it is essential to promote the un- serve as members of the Armed Forces of the cific Islander group in the United States, derstanding, education, and appreciation of United States; with a population of approximately 4,000,000; the history and culture of Filipino Ameri- Whereas several hundred thousand mem- Whereas, from the Civil War to the Iraq cans in the United States: Now, therefore, be bers of the Armed Forces rotate each year and Afghanistan conflicts, Filipino Ameri- it through deployments to 150 countries in cans have a longstanding history of serving Resolved, That the Senate— every region of the world; in the Armed Forces; (1) recognizes the celebration of Filipino Whereas more than 2,900,000 members of Whereas more than 250,000 Filipinos fought American History Month in October 2017 as— the Armed Forces have deployed to the area under the United States flag during World (A) a testament to the advancement of Fil- of operations of the United States Central War II to protect and defend the United ipino Americans; Command since the September 11, 2001, ter- States in the Pacific theater; (B) a time to reflect on and remember the rorist attacks; Whereas 20,000 Filipino World War II vet- many notable contributions that Filipino Whereas the United States is kept strong erans were granted United States citizenship Americans have made to the United States; and free by the loyal military personnel from as a result of the Immigration Act of 1990, and the total force (the regular components, the which was signed into law by President (C) a time to renew efforts toward the re- National Guard, and the Reserves), who pro- George H.W. Bush on November 29, 1990; search and examination of history and cul- tect the precious heritage of the United Whereas, effective June 8, 2016, the Filipino ture so as to provide an opportunity for all States through their declarations and ac- World War II Veterans Parole Program al- people of the United States to learn more tions; lowed for Filipino World War II veterans and about Filipino Americans and to appreciate Whereas members of the Armed Forces certain family members to be reunited more the historic contributions of Filipino Ameri- serving at home and abroad have coura- expeditiously than the immigrant visa proc- cans to the United States; and geously answered the call to duty to defend ess allowed at that time; (2) urges the people of the United States to the ideals of the United States and to pre- Whereas on December 14, 2016, President observe Filipino American History Month serve peace and freedom around the world; Barack Obama signed into law S. 1555 (114th with appropriate programs and activities. Whereas members of the Armed Forces per- sonify the virtues of patriotism, service, Congress), the Filipino Veterans of World f War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015, duty, courage, and sacrifice; to award Filipino veterans who fought along- SENATE RESOLUTION 306—RECOG- Whereas the families of members of the side troops of the United States in World NIZING THE MONTH OF OCTOBER Armed Forces make important and signifi- War II the highest civilian honor bestowed 2017 AS ‘‘NATIONAL PRINCIPALS cant sacrifices for the United States; and by Congress, a recognition for which Filipino MONTH’’ Whereas the Senate designated October 26 World War II veterans have waited more as ‘‘Day of the Deployed’’ in 2011, 2012, 2013, than 70 years; Mr. FRANKEN (for himself, Mr. 2014, 2015, and 2016: Now, therefore, be it Whereas the presentation of Congressional HATCH, and Mr. WICKER) submitted the Resolved, That the Senate— Medals of Honor pursuant to such Act will following resolution; which was consid- (1) designates October 26, 2017, as ‘‘Day of take place on October 25, 2017, in Emanci- ered and agreed to: the Deployed’’; (2) honors the deployed members of the pation Hall in the Capitol Building; S. RES. 306 Whereas Filipino Americans continue to Armed Forces of the United States and the Whereas the National Association of Sec- demonstrate a commendable sense of patri- families of the members; ondary School Principals, the National Asso- otism and honor; (3) calls on the people of the United States ciation of Elementary School Principals, and Whereas 9 Filipino Americans have re- to reflect on the service of those members of the American Federation of School Adminis- ceived the Congressional Medal of Honor, the the Armed Forces, wherever the members trators have declared the month of October highest award for valor in action against an serve, past, present, and future; and 2017 to be ‘‘National Principals Month’’; enemy force that may be bestowed on an in- (4) encourages the people of the United Whereas principals are educational vision- dividual serving in the Armed Forces; States to observe the Day of the Deployed aries, instructional and assessment leaders, Whereas the late Thelma Garcia with appropriate ceremonies and activities. disciplinarians, community builders, budget Buchholdt, born in Claveria, Cagayan, on the analysts, facilities managers, and adminis- f island of Luzon in the Philippines— (1) moved with her family to Alaska in trators of legal and contractual obligations; AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO 1965; Whereas principals work collaboratively MEET (2) was elected to the House of Representa- with teachers and parents to develop and im- tives of Alaska in 1974; plement a clear mission, high curriculum Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I have 8 (3) was the first Filipino woman elected to standards, and performance goals; requests for committees to meet during a State legislature; and Whereas principals create school environ- today’s session of the Senate. They (4) authored a comprehensive history book ments that facilitate great teaching and have the approval of the Majority and entitled ‘‘Filipinos in Alaska: 1788–1958’’; learning and continuous school improve- Minority leaders. Whereas Filipino American farmworkers ment; Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph and labor leaders, such as Philip Vera Cruz Whereas the vision, actions, and dedication and Larry Itliong, played an integral role in of principals provide the mobilizing force be- 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- the multiethnic United Farm Workers move- hind any school reform effort; and ate, the following committees are au- ment, alongside Cesar Cha´ vez, Dolores Whereas the celebration of National Prin- thorized to meet during today’s session Huerta, and other Latino workers; cipals Month would honor elementary of the Senate:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.018 S25OCPT1 S6820 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 COMMITTEE COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND of the Senate on Wednesday, October NATIONAL HEALTH INFORMATION TRANSPORTATION 25, 2017, at 2:30 p.m., in room SD–562 to TECHNOLOGY WEEK The Committee Commerce, Science, conduct a hearing entitled ‘‘Working Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I and Transportation is authorized to and Aging with Disabilities: From ask unanimous consent that the Com- meet during the session of the Senate School to Retirement.’’ mittee on the Judiciary be discharged on Wednesday, October 25, 2017, at 10 f from further consideration of S. Res. a.m., in room SR–253 to conduct a hear- 280 and the Senate proceed to its imme- ing entitled ‘‘The Commercial Satellite PRIVILEGES OF THE FLOOR diate consideration. Industry: What’s Up and What’s on the Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, I ask The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Horizon.’’ unanimous consent that my intern, Sarah Finley, be granted privileges of objection, it is so ordered. COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC The clerk will report the resolution WORKS the floor for the remainder of the day. by title. The Committee on Environment and The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. The assistant bill clerk read as fol- Public Works is authorized to meet lows: during the session of the Senate on Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I ask Wednesday, October 25, 2017, at 10 a.m., unanimous consent that Radhika A resolution (S. Res. 280) designating the Gharpure, who is currently serving as a week of October 2 through October 6, 2017, as in room SD–406 to conduct a hearing on ‘‘National Health Information Technology the following nominations: Michael legislative fellow in my office, be granted floor privileges for the remain- Week’’ to recognize the value of health infor- Dourson, of Ohio, to be Assistant Ad- mation technology in transforming and im- ministrator for Toxic Substances, and der of this Congress. proving the healthcare system for all people The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without William L. Wehrum, of Delaware, Mat- in the United States. objection, it is so ordered. thew Z. Leopold, of Florida, and David Mr. MARKEY. Mr. President, I ask There being no objection, the Senate Ross, of Wisconsin, each to be an As- unanimous consent that floor privi- proceeded to consider the resolution. sistant Administrator, all of the Envi- leges be granted to Tessa Rebholz, a Mr. MCCONNELL. I further ask ronmental Protection Agency, Paul fellow on my staff, for the remainder of unanimous consent that the resolution Trombino III, of Wisconsin, to be Ad- the session. be agreed to, the preamble be agreed ministrator of the Federal Highway The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without to, and the motions to reconsider be Administration, Department of Trans- objection, it is so ordered. considered made and laid upon the portation, and Jeffery Martin Baran, of f table with no intervening action or de- Virginia, to be a Member of the Nu- bate. clear Regulatory Commission. APPOINTMENTS The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC The PRESIDING OFFICER. On Tues- objection, it is so ordered. WORKS day, October 24, 2017, the Chair, on be- The resolution (S. Res. 280) was The Committee on Environment and half of the President pro tempore, and agreed to. Public Works is authorized to meet upon the recommendation of the ma- The preamble was agreed to. during the session of the Senate on jority leader, pursuant to Public Law (The resolution, with its preamble, is Wednesday, October 25, 2017, at 10 a.m., 96–388, as amended by Public Law 97–84, printed in the RECORD of October 3, in room SD–406 to conduct a hearing and Public Law 106–292, reappointed 2017, under ‘‘Submitted Resolutions.’’) entitled ‘‘The Wildfire Prevention and and appointed the following Senators f Mitigation Act of 2017.’’ to the United States Holocaust Memo- RESOLUTIONS SUBMITTED TODAY COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS rial Council: the Honorable ORRIN G. The Committee on Foreign Relations HATCH of Utah, The Honorable MARCO Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I is authorized to meet during the ses- RUBIO of Florida, and The Honorable ask unanimous consent that the Sen- sion of the Senate on Wednesday, Octo- TIM SCOTT of South Carolina. ate now proceed to the en bloc consid- ber 25, 2017, at 10 a.m., to hold a hear- f eration of the following Senate resolutions, which were submitted earlier ing entitled ‘‘Nigeria Security Up- VETERANS’ COMPENSATION COST- date.’’ today: S. Res. 305, S. Res. 306, and S. OF-LIVING ADJUSTMENT ACT OF Res. 307. COMMITTEE ON INDIAN AFFAIRS 2017 The Committee on Indian Affairs is There being no objection, the Senate Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I proceeded to consider the resolutions authorized to meet during the session ask unanimous consent that the Com- of the Senate on Wednesday, October en bloc. mittee on Veterans’ Affairs be dis- Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous 25, 2017, at 2:30 p.m., in room SD–628 to charged from further consideration of consent that the resolutions be agreed conduct a hearing on: S.1223, Klamath H.R. 1329 and the Senate proceed to its to, the preambles be agreed to, and the Tribe Judgment Fund Repeal Act. immediate consideration. motions to reconsider be considered COMMITTEE ON INDIAN AFFAIRS The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without made and laid upon the table, all en The Committee on Indian Affairs is objection, it is so ordered. bloc. authorized to meet during the session The clerk will report the bill by title. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without of the Senate on Wednesday, October The assistant bill clerk read as fol- objection, it is so ordered. 25, 2017, at 2:30 p.m., in room SD–628 to lows: The resolutions were agreed to. conduct a hearing on: S.1870, Securing A bill (H.R. 1329) to increase, effective as of The preambles were agreed to. urgent resources vital to Indian Em- December 1, 2017, the rates of compensation (The resolutions, with their pre- powerment Act 2017; S.1953, Reauthor- for veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indem- ambles, are printed in today’s RECORD ization of the Tribal Law and Order under ‘‘Submitted Resolutions.’’) Act of 2010; and S.1942, to direct the At- nity compensation for the survivors of certain disabled veterans, and for other pur- f torney General to review, revise, and poses. develop law enforcement and justice ORDER OF PROCEDURE There being no objection, the Senate protocols appropriate to address miss- proceeded to consider the bill. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I ing and murdered Indians. Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous ask unanimous consent that notwith- COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS consent that the bill be considered read standing the provisions of rule XXII, at The Committee on Veterans’ Affairs a third time and passed and the motion 12 noon on Thursday, October 26, all is authorized to meet during the ses- to reconsider be considered made and postcloture time be considered expired sion of the Senate on Wednesday, Octo- laid upon the table. on the Palk nomination, and that fol- ber 25, 2017, off the Senate floor to con- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without lowing disposition of the Palk nomina- duct a hearing on nominations. objection, it is so ordered. tion, the motion to reconsider be con- SPECIAL COMMITTEE ON AGING The bill (H.R. 1329) was ordered to a sidered made and laid upon the table, The Special Committee on Aging is third reading, was read the third time, the President be immediately notified authorized to meet during the session and passed. of the Senate’s action, and the Senate

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:57 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC6.021 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6821 vote on the motion to invoke cloture by the Burmese military is not epi- to implement any of the Commission’s on the McFadden nomination. sodic, it is systematic. recommendations and further con- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without In Bangladesh, aid groups have been tinues to deny access to the Rakhine objection, it is so ordered. unable to keep up with the influx of State to other U.N. investigators, jour- f refugees. The unprecedented scale of nalists, and NGO groups. Some officials the crisis and the lack of infrastruc- have even accused the Rohingya of fak- ORDERS FOR THURSDAY, OCTOBER ture in the makeshift camps have cre- ing rape and faking the burning of 26, 2017 ated significant gaps in access to food, their own homes. What a preposterous Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I medical care, and even safety and shel- claim. ask unanimous consent that when the ter. I recognize the dramatic progress Senate completes its business today, it The international community has Burma has made over the years. It will adjourn until 10 a.m., Thursday, Octo- condemned the violence against the take a long time to overcome many of ber 26; further, that following the pray- Rohingya, and rightly so. the challenges in such a young democ- er and pledge, the morning hour be Countries around the world—rep- racy, and I understand that Aung San deemed expired, the Journal of pro- utable international human rights or- Suu Kyi, as State Counselor, has a lim- ceedings be approved to date, the time ganizations such as the Human Rights ited role under the power-sharing for the two leaders be reserved for their Watch, Amnesty International, and agreement with her military, which use later in the day, and morning busi- even the U.N.—have denounced the has largely been responsible for the vi- ness be closed; finally, that following military’s campaign against the olence I have described. But I would leader remarks, the Senate proceed to Rohingya. urge her to live up to her own words executive session and resume consider- In a speech to the U.N. Human Rights upon delivering her Nobel Peace Prize ation of the Palk nomination under the Council in Geneva last month, the U.N. lecture in 2012 to address the historic previous order. High Commissioner for Human Rights, and brutal suppression of the Rohingya The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Zeid Ra’ad Al Hussein, called the Bur- and support ethnic reconciliation in objection, it is so ordered. mese military operation against the Burma. In fact, Aung San Suu Kyi Rohingya people ‘‘a textbook example quoted the following passages from the f of ethnic cleansing.’’ preamble to the Universal Declaration ORDER FOR ADJOURNMENT Many of my colleagues in this Cham- of Human Rights, which was adopted ber joined me when I introduced S. Res. by the U.N. General Assembly in 1948, Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, if 250 to condemn these atrocities, and a as the answer to why she fought for de- there is no further business to come be- large group of us also wrote to the ad- fore the Senate, I ask unanimous con- mocracy and human rights in her home ministration recently to urge Sec- country in Burma. She said: sent that it stand adjourned under the retary Tillerson and Administrator previous order, following the remarks [D]isregard and contempt for human rights Green to help resolve the crisis and have resulted in barbarous acts which have of Senator DURBIN and Senator WYDEN. provide critically needed aid. outraged the conscience of mankind, and the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Just yesterday, in a Senate Foreign advent of a world in which human beings objection, it is so ordered. Relations Committee hearing, my shall enjoy freedom of speech and belief and The Senator from Illinois. friend and colleague, Senator BEN freedom from fear and want has been proclaimed as the highest aspiration of the com- f CARDIN of Maryland, labeled the crisis mon people, a ‘‘genocide.’’ Yet Aung San Suu Kyi, ROHINGYA HUMANITARIAN CRISIS [I]t is essential, if man is not to be com- the de facto leader of Burma, the Nobel pelled to have recourse, as a last resort, to Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, the laureate, has largely done and said too rebellion against tyranny and oppression, Rohingya are one of many ethnic little. that human rights should be protected by groups, largely Muslim, who have been I have followed Aung San Suu Kyi the rule of law. living for centuries in Burma and now over the years. I joined many of my These are wise words used by Aung in Myanmar, with the majority of colleagues in praising her struggle for San Suu Kyi when she received her them in the western coastal Rakhine democracy. After 15 years under house Nobel Prize. They are words that apply State. arrest, she and the National League for today to this crisis within her own Deep-seated misconceptions about Democracy won a landslide victory in country. their roots and faith have led to dec- the first national vote since Burma’s I am committed to doing what I can ades of discrimination, about which transition to civilian rule in 2015, more in Congress to hold those in the Bur- many of us are aware because of press than two decades after her party was mese military personally accountable reports. They have been denied citizen- denied its victory in the 1990 election. for the reprehensible human rights vio- ship, had their movement restricted, I admired her so much for her non- lations against the Rohingya. and have been deprived of basic violent struggle for political freedom I want to note that I have also had healthcare. It is no wonder that the and human rights. And while I recog- the opportunity over the October re- Rohingya people are considered to be nize she still has a fragile relationship cess to meet with some members of the one of the most persecuted minorities with the Burmese military, which still Rohingya community who have reset- in the world. has considerable power, I am sadly dis- tled in my home State of Illinois over Today, as a result of a military appointed in her lack of leadership the years. crackdown against them in the when it comes to the plight of the About 1,500 Rohingya people live in Rakhine State—an overzealous, dis- Rohingya people—her fellow country- the Chicagoland area. Among them is proportionate response to attacks on men—men and women who are in a des- Nasir Zakaria. He helped found the security outposts by some militants perate situation. Rohingya Culture Center in Chicago— last October and then again this Au- She claims she is committed to re- the first Rohingya community center gust—countless Rohingya have been storing peace and the rule of law. Yet in America. The center helps provide a brutally killed, and more than 600,000 she has spoken of so-called allegations safe, familiar space for Rohingya peo- have fled to overwhelmed and des- and counterallegations instead of ad- ple new to the country, as well as criti- perate camps in neighboring Ban- dressing the widespread, well-docu- cally needed resources, such as trans- gladesh. mented abuses by her own country’s se- lators, ESL and computer classes, help The scorched-earth tactic by the Bur- curity forces. with paperwork, and much more. mese military has left hundreds of vil- I was glad that Aung San Suu Kyi in When I met Nasir and the other lages literally burned to the ground, 2016 appointed investigators, led by members of the community about a and the reports of rape, starvation, former U.N. Secretary General Kofi week ago with my wife, they told me mass killing—even reports of security Annan, who recommended this summer about the phone calls and photos they forces burning people, babies, alive— that Burma review a 1982 law that receive late at night from family and have been horrifying. Satellite images strips most Rohingya of citizenship. friends fleeing the violence, looking for and maps indicate that the destruction Yet the Burmese Government has yet safety in Bangladesh.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.066 S25OCPT1 S6822 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 I also heard from community mem- dishwasher in a hotel near Chicago, I thank him. I enjoyed listening to bers who recently returned from a med- supported his wife and three children, him again. You don’t really enjoy it be- ical mission to Bangladesh. They met others in the community, and cause you hear about the suffering, but showed me the photos they brought helped to create the Rohingya Center I am so glad that Senator DURBIN has back. One food line to feed refugees was that I visited. made this case, and I thank him for it. literally 1 mile long. Healthcare is lim- Here is a picture of Nasir Zakaria f ited. Safe drinking water is limited. with his son, Mohamed, in their Chi- WILDFIRE DISASTER FUNDING Cholera is detected. It is a horrible sit- cago apartment. You can see the Amer- ACT uation for these people who have been ican flag in the background. He is very tossed out of Myanmar and now are proud of this Nation that he now calls Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, across trying just to survive nearby Ban- home. the West, 2017 will be long remembered gladesh. The stories are horrific, and The Rohingya Culture Center pro- as the year when fire was seared into they are all the same. vides critical resources to more than our collective consciousness and ash Here is an image of this exodus that 400 families in the Chicago area, one of rained down on homes and cars. There was printed in the New York Times. It the largest concentrations of Rohingya were mass evacuations, and scores just shows families fleeing Burma across refugees in America. More than three lost their hopes and dreams. the border to Bangladesh with smoke decades after Nasir first escaped Devastating fires have hit my home rising in the background from the vil- Burma, the Rohingya continue to be State of Oregon, but Idaho, California, lages that they lived in being burned. attacked and demonized. Washington, Colorado, Montana, Ne- The stories I heard were of helpless, Let me close by saying that we met vada, and more all were hit by fires poor families walking on foot through today with the Myanmar Ambassador. that always seemed bigger and hotter jungles, crowding in boats along the Seven Senators sat down with him and and more powerful than what we have Naf River, leaving behind everything expressed the sentiments that I have seen in the past. These are not our grandfathers’ fires. with accountings of rape, killing, and included in this statement. First, let me give Mr. U Aung Lynn, There are a whole host of reasons be- arson by the Burmese military. They the Ambassador, credit for coming to hind this, and today I just want to talk arrive in Bangladesh sick, exhausted, the meeting. He knew what we were a bit about what happened, what it has and desperately in need of the most going to raise. Yet he came, he took meant, and at least a commonsense ap- basic things—food, clean water, medi- notes, and he assured us that he would proach that Senator CRAPO and I have cine, a safe space to rest their heads. respond to this; that we would be able advocated for moving forward on a bi- Here is another image, which is to come back in a week or two for a partisan basis. heartbreaking. It is an indication of progress report on what is being done; The fact is, in the West, dozens of what happens in the refugee camps that he would allow or plead for access lives have been lost. Entire commu- when food arrives, this time in a camp of U.N. personnel, as well as NGO nities have been wiped out. An iconic known as Cox’s Bazar in Bangladesh. groups, into the northern Rakhine area national treasure in my home State, a A UNICEF report last week stated currently being denied access; that he place that Oregonians have always re- that 58 percent of the refugees who would personally make it clear to his garded—a special love for our Columbia have poured into Cox’s Bazar are chil- government we want those responsible River Gorge is practically in our chro- dren, noting that they are in hell on for these atrocities held accountable. mosomes—it was burned over this year. Earth. They are acutely malnourished, We want to make certain, as well, that This month, a huge part of Northern they need clean water and vaccines, those who are repatriated have a fair California was burned. We talked to and they are at risk of exploitation by chance to return to a safe atmosphere our colleagues Senator FEINSTEIN and traffickers. This is unacceptable. in Myanmar and, ultimately, for citi- Senator HARRIS about that. It is not I understand that Bangladesh and zenship. just rolling hills and unoccupied land; Burma have discussed a repatriation It was a long list of requirements and the fires swept through entire cities. plan recently, but many refugees don’t requests that we gave to the Ambas- Some of the stories about those whose have any documents. They were lit- sador. He took them all in a positive lives were lost in California just break erally burned out of their homes. We way and told us he would be back to us your heart. School has been disrupted need to call on the U.N. High Commis- in a matter of a week or two with a for more than a quarter million chil- sioner for Refugees. Filippo Grandi was progress report. dren. In some cases, it could be weeks in my office last week, and he stressed Let me close by appealing to Aung before classes are back up and running. how important it is for us to speak up San Suu Kyi to help resolve this crisis. In my home State, more than 600,000 and to help on this issue, that we en- I am counting on her. I do believe she acres were burned, nearly a third of sure the voluntary right of return and is a good person. I hope that she will that in the Chetco Bar fire that burned we ensure the safety of those who do respond to this crisis in her own coun- through southwestern Oregon. I was return and we make sure that the try the way she stood up with so much there to visit with folks in the commu- paper requirements for return are rea- courage before. nity and the volunteers. There were sonable for people who are literally I plan to meet with this Ambassador volunteers from all over the country homeless and stateless at this moment. in a few weeks to chart the progress, who were stepping up to help us deal Many are wary of returning without and I look forward to working with my with these fires. It sure was needed bean assurance of full citizenship, given colleagues on a bipartisan basis to end cause, nationwide, almost 9 million the risk of further persecution or the this ethnic cleansing of the Rohingya acres burned. It is an area bigger than threat of being placed in camps in people in Myanmar. We cannot allow the size of eight States in our coun- Myanmar when they return. I don’t the Burmese military to commit these try—all of it up in flames. Compare blame them, because the atrocities atrocities. that to the 1980s and the 1990s, when an committed against the Rohingya over I yield the floor. average of around 3 million acres the past months and weeks are not new The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- burned per year. by any means. ator from Oregon. A brandnew report is out from the Nasir Zakaria in Chicago told me Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, before Department of the Interior forecasting that more than three decades ago, Senator DURBIN leaves the floor, I just how much the cost of fighting these when he was only 14, he was kidnapped want to commend our colleague from fires is going to climb in the near fu- by militants targeting the Rohingya in Illinois. He and I have worked together ture. The agency predicts a jump of 20 Burma. He never saw his parents again. for many years, and throughout that percent from fiscal year 2018 to 2019, Nasir eventually escaped to Ban- time, the Senator from Illinois has and they believe that is a conservative gladesh, made his way to Malaysia, constantly been a voice for those who estimate. If conditions are dry and where he worked for 18 years in con- have no voice on these human rights temperatures are high, it could be even struction before he finally made it to concerns, laying out why the effort to worse. the United States with a green card in step up is what we are all about as I am of the view—and it is something 2013. He learned English, worked as a Americans. Senator CRAPO and I have worked on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.072 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S6823 together for years now. Sometimes we In our Columbia River Gorge that I deal with them through the disaster believe it is the longest running battle mentioned, we saw a fire leap the river. fund. Then you don’t raid the preven- since the Trojan War. It is based on the It used to be that rivers were a break. tion fund. And what the government proposition that Congress should no They were a break to ensure that the scorekeepers have said in the past is longer sit back and accept that these communities were safe. Now, in my that not raiding the prevention fund fires can only get larger, cost more, home State, we have seen a fire actu- through fire-borrowing will, in their and that somehow the Forest Service is ally leap the river. judgment, means fewer fires in the first not all that big a problem. We just call So what is happening is, as preven- place; hence, there will be fewer nat- it the fire service, which is the way a tion gets short shrift, these big fires ural disasters if you end fire-borrowing lot of people describe it in our part of break out, the Federal Government once and for all. the world. borrows from the prevention fund to Now, the way the Federal budget put the fires out, and the problem just My view is that we are going to go works for these fires is a broken, com- gets worse. Common sense is defied. forward this year on the disaster relief monsense-defying policy, and it lit- There is absolutely irrational budg- issue, and I want it understood that I erally adds fuel to the fires and in ef- eting that ripples not just through the am going to work with Senators of fect disrupts not just the West but the West but through communities all both political parties to finally see this rest of the country because the con- across the country, producing what I matter wrapped up and an end to fire- sequences of this broken budgeting think most colleagues would say they borrowing. process for fighting fires takes a toll on would never expect, which is forestry I think anyone who has kept an eye communities across the country. personnel—when Senator SCHUMER vis- on the news or has read stories or seen A few years ago, I came back from its in New York—having challenges reports about natural disasters under- Oregon for a visit, and I learned that paying for local forestry matters. stands that unfortunately disasters our colleague and friend, the distin- Fire prevention programs help thin have visited too many of our commu- guished senior Senator from New York, out dead and dying material from for- nities—hurricanes flooding Houston, Mr. SCHUMER, had signed on to legisla- ests and clear dried grasses from open tion that I am going to describe short- landscapes—the kindling that goes up violent winds and rain in Florida. Weeks after Maria made landfall, mil- ly that Senator CRAPO and I have been in flames when lightning strikes or working on. When I heard Senator when a small ground fire grows out of lions of American citizens in Puerto SCHUMER had signed on to it, I, of control. Those are the very real prob- Rico are still in desperate need of help. course, was very pleased to have some- lems we have in the West. The pro- Our neighbors to the south suffer with one of his influence. I said to my col- grams we need to deal with this are the aftermath of a massive earthquake. leagues: What am I missing here? I being robbed because of the cycle I just Tornados are a threat across much of don’t remember there being a lot of described. Fire-borrowing. Prevention. the country. In our part of the world, Federal forests in Brooklyn. Short shrift. The government borrows these wildfires are our natural disas- Well, it turns out that at that time, from the prevention fund to put the ters. Senator SCHUMER, because he goes all fire out, and the problem gets worse. The Congress can’t get up one day, over his State, was I believe in Upstate That is fire-borrowing in our part of come to the floor of the Senate, and New York. There was a company that the world. just say: We are going to stop all the made baseball bats. As a result of this You can look at the recent fires in hurricanes and the earthquakes. There broken system of fighting fire, when California to see how dangerous this is. is something that Congress can do Senator SCHUMER’s constituent had a If fire prevention had gotten a fair about preventing so many wildfires. problem with the baseball bats because shake, lives could have been saved, and We, with our legislation, want to build there was an invasive species that was businesses and property might have a new ethic of fire prevention. That is eating its way through these baseball been spared. Western communities what ending fire-borrowing is really all bats, the local Forest Service folks would not be trying to recover from about. It is saying that we are in effect didn’t have the money to help him deal the ravages of summer and fall 2017. going to take—it is almost like an old with this economic issue. Many of our colleagues of both par- It might seem like a small thing to ties and now 205 groups—timber com- stage with a dilapidated set on it, and some people, but when you are talking panies, scientists, environmentalists, you just pull it out because it is out- about these smaller communities, if academics, and people from all across dated. That is what we are talking they don’t have the resources because the political spectrum—are joining about with fire-borrowing. It is like an they are victims of this broken system Senator CRAPO and me in saying that old stage that is dilapidated. It doesn’t of fighting fire, this is a problem. It is what is needed is a clean fix for the make sense for the times. We are talk- a problem that Senator CRAPO and I wildfire budgeting system and a coming about replacing fire-borrowing with have taken on now to ensure that, once plete end to fire-borrowing. We have a modern policy so that we can deal and for all, we substitute common been working on this, as I said, for with the big fires as the natural disas- sense for a system that is everything years. ters they are and get back in the busi- but common sense. We know some of our colleagues want ness of putting fire prevention first and What I am going to describe now is to see a variety of other policies at- replacing a commonsense-defying Fed- something called fire-borrowing. It tached, particularly policies dealing eral budget plan that has caused so starts like this: Over the years, preven- with forest management. One of the much harm to folks in the West. tion, which everybody talks about— reasons I wanted to come to the floor I hope my colleagues will support the Smokey is the symbol of prevention. tonight was to say that I take a back Wildfire Disaster Funding Act. Senator Prevention gets short shrift. It gets hot seat to no one when it comes to finding CRAPO and I want to work with every and dry in our part of the world in the the right approach to forest manage- single Senator in this Chamber to get West, and if you don’t go in there and ment. I have written bipartisan forest across the finish line. We are not say- do the preventive work, if you don’t management laws. But let’s make sure ing that ending fire-borrowing is going thin out the forests and it gets hot and that as we go forward on this issue, we to mean there will never be another dry, and then all of a sudden you have understand that we cannot let other fire in this country. What we are say- a lightning strike on your hands, you matters get in the way of stopping the ing is that it is past time to replace will have what amounts to an inferno. cycle of fire-borrowing once and for all. such an illogical, commonsense-defying It just whips through the area. It What Senator CRAPO and I have pro- budget system as that presented by knows no boundaries. Federal land is posed is essentially to say that the affected. Private land is affected. State really big fires, once and for all in fire-borrowing. With that, we can re- land is affected. There are bigger and America, will be treated like what they duce the risk of major wildfires to more expensive fires, and I can tell you really are—natural disasters. And you communities across the West. that what we have seen are unprece- can look at that relatively small num- With that, Mr. President, I yield the dented fires. ber of fires and say: We are going to floor.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.070 S25OCPT1 S6824 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE October 25, 2017 ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 10 A.M. Senate stands adjourned until 10 a.m. Thereupon, the Senate, at 7:10 p.m., TOMORROW tomorrow. adjourned until Thursday, October 26, The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. 2017, at 10 a.m. PERDUE). Under the previous order, the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G25OC6.071 S25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1423 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

PERSONAL EXPLANATION Congratulations to Gaston Day School on office for thousands of Alabamians and Ameri- fifty years of teaching students and developing cans all over the country. She has provided in- HON. STEVE SCALISE leaders. valuable service to me, the nation, and the so many who she trained and mentored. Though OF LOUISIANA f we will miss her marvelous contributions, we IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES HONORING MARGARET ‘‘PEGGI’’ wish her all the best as she and Kevin embark Wednesday, October 25, 2017 HANRAHAN on this next adventure.’’ Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- So, on behalf of Alabama’s First Congres- ably detained. Had I been present, I would HON. BRADLEY BYRNE sional District and a grateful nation, I want to wish Peggi and her husband, Kevin, all the have voted Nay on Roll Call No. 575, Nay on OF ALABAMA best upon her retirement. Alabama and our Roll Call No. 576, Nay on Roll Call No. 577, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Nay on Roll Call No. 578, and Nay on Roll nation are better off today thanks to the serv- Call No. 579. Wednesday, October 25, 2017 ice, dedication, and leadership of Peggi Hanrahan. f Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Margaret ‘‘Peggi’’ Hanrahan for her f PERSONAL EXPLANATION years of service to the people of Alabama and RECOGNIZING THE LIFE OF FALL- the United States. EN MISSISSIPPI SOLDIER ARMY HON. STEVE SCALISE On October 27, 2017, Peggi will retire from PRIVATE FIRST CLASS (PFC) OF LOUISIANA her current position as Confidential Assistant CHRISTOPHER MCCRAW IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to Attorney General Jeff Sessions. Prior to this role, Peggi served as Executive Assistant to Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Mr. Sessions during his twenty-year career in HON. TRENT KELLY Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- the United States Senate. Peggi oversaw all OF MISSISSIPPI ably detained. Had I been present, I would administrative and front office staff and was IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES have voted Yea on Roll Call No. 580 and Yea essentially involved in every function of the of- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 on Roll Call No. 581. fice. Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, f Peggi has a very unique background, in- today I rise in memory of Private First Class cluding a period of time working in the oil and (PFC) Christopher McCraw, who paid the ulti- HONORING GASTON DAY SCHOOL’S gas industry, time as co-owner of a profes- mate sacrifice while defending our great nation 50TH ANNIVERSARY sional party planning company, and work in a on October 14, 2008, during Operation Iraqi law office. These experiences helped shape Freedom. PFC McCraw was killed by wounds HON. PATRICK T. McHENRY her future role in public service. sustained when he encountered small arms OF NORTH CAROLINA I have had the honor of working with Peggi fire while on dismounted patrol in Nasar Wa IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in a professional capacity, and I also came to Salam, Baghdad. PFC McCraw was assigned know her personally through my family and Wednesday, October 25, 2017 to the 1st Battalion, 21st Infantry Regiment, our work together with a children’s home in 2nd Brigade, 25th Infantry Division, Schofield Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, the Tenth Dis- Mobile, Alabama. Peggi was the Firm Admin- Barracks, Hawaii. trict of North Carolina is home to many excel- istrator at Miller, Hamilton, Snider & Odom, PFC McCraw, a Columbia, Mississippi na- lent schools that develop and inspire our and I worked closely with her in my role as tive, joined the Army in February 2006 and young people to become leaders in their com- managing partner of the firm. Throughout our went to Basic Training at Fort Benning, Geor- munities. This year marked the 50th anniver- time together, I always found Peggi to be gia where he graduated in June 2006. He de- sary of one of these institutions, Gaston Day competent, capable, friendly, dedicated, and ployed to Iraq in December of 2007. According School. The school was founded by families knowledgeable. to the Associated Press, PFC McCraw is re- and community leaders in Gaston County who After being elected to the United States membered by his friends and family for having were seeking to offer an educational alter- Senate in 1996, Mr. Jeff Sessions hired Peggi a jovial sense of humor. Wendy Bracey, PFC native to the area’s parents and children. In an to serve on his staff. There is no way to quan- McCraw’s Sunday school teacher described article from The Gastonia Gazette published in tify the numerous tasks Peggi has completed, him as, ‘‘a charmer, an all-around, happy-go- 1967 the first Head of School, J.B. Davis, lays the various roles she has held, or the number lucky kid.’’ His father, Avon, recalled that their out Gaston Day’s mission when he says, ‘‘We of individuals she assisted during her time on last conversation was over the phone, and are not interested in teaching only the excel- Capitol Hill. Whether it was arranging a tour of that at the time PFC McCraw was laughing lent student. We are interested in teaching the the United States Capitol or giving career ad- and in good spirits. youngster who can achieve.’’ Gaston Day has vice to an intern or drafting personal cor- PFC McCraw was laid to rest at Foxworth realized this mission since its very first class. respondence to an Alabama family, Peggi’s Cemetery, located in Marion County. Accord- In fact, Gaston Day’s current Head Master, impact has been profoundly felt over the last ing to the Associated Press, PFC McCraw’s Richard Rankin, was a student in Gaston twenty years. uncle, Jerry McCraw, remembers him as, ‘‘al- Day’s very first class. Mr. Speaker, as a sign of Peggi’s impres- ways a happy kid, a bursting-with-energy-type Although the school may have moved on sive skillset and track record, Mr. Sessions kid, I guess what you would call a perfect sol- from its humble beginnings in the former First asked Peggi to continue serving with him once dier.’’ Presbyterian Church building and is now es- he was confirmed to serve as our nation’s PFC McCraw was awarded the Purple tablished in the Gaston County community, it 84th Attorney General. Heart, the Bronze Star, and the Good Conduct has not forgotten its roots. Over the past fifty Mr. Sessions had this to say about Peggi medal. years Gaston Day School has graduated stu- and her years of service: ‘‘Peggi has been at PFC McCraw is survived by his parents, dents who have not only become leaders in the center of everything we have accom- Avon McCraw and Cathy McCraw; his uncle, the Gaston County community but in many plished in public service. She loves America Jerry McCraw; his son, Issac; and his fiance´e other parts of the world as well. Today, the and its ideals, is smart, decisive, loyal, and a Brianna Bell. school continues to expand and evolve so it total professional. She speaks up for the high PFC McCraw proudly served our nation to can continue to teach its students to succeed principles she believes in, and for two dec- protect the freedoms we all enjoy. His service in our constantly changing world. ades has been the key point of contact in our will always be remembered.

∑ 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 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.001 E25OCPT1 E1424 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 25, 2017 A TRIBUTE TO BONDURANT- Over the next decade as the student body as amended, I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Had FARRAR SCHOOL DISTRICT increased, so did the necessity for larger quar- I been present for roll call vote number 575, ters. In 1893, the cornerstone was laid for a Cohen (D–TN) Amendment No. 2—Exempts HON. DAVID YOUNG new Motherhouse convent and school in settlement agreements based on race, reli- OF IOWA Caldwell. In 1903, with the increased demand gion, national origin, or any other protected IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in time devoted toward the education of New category, I would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ Had I Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Jersey’s youth, the sisters decided to re- been present for roll call vote number 576, nounce their cloistered lifestyle and become Johnson (D–GA) Amendment No. 3—Exempts Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise Third Order Dominicans. settlement agreements that direct funds to re- today to recognize and congratulate the By the late 1920s history repeated itself as mediate the indirect harms caused by the ma- Bondurant-Farrar School District for being the school saw a greater influx of new stu- nipulation of emissions standards in auto- named the 2016 Bondurant Organization of dents. This influx led to renewed efforts to ex- mobiles, I would have voted ‘‘nay.’’ Had I been the Year at the Bondurant Chamber of Com- pand. Under Mother Joseph Dunn, the insti- present for roll call vote number 577, Jackson merce Annual Dinner and Awards Ceremony tute constructed a larger dormitory that came Lee (D–TX)—Amendment No.4—Exempts set- on January 20, 2017. to encompass both the school itself as well as tlement agreements that pertain to providing The Bondurant-Farrar School District has the residences for those boarding. More im- restitution to a State, I would have voted been an integral part of the Bondurant Com- provements and renovations were made under ‘‘nay.’’ Had I been present for roll call vote munity for years. While it’s teachers have re- Sister Germaine in the 1950s to add additional number 578, Cicilline (D–RI)—Amendment No. mained dedicated year after year in educating classrooms, offices, and a larger library. 5—Exempts settlements that resolve predatory the area’s children and preparing them for the Recently, the academy has continued to im- or fraudulent conduct involving residential future, administrators have worked hard in prove upon the renovations that took place mortgage-backed securities, I would have meeting the challenges and surpassing the during the twentieth century by continuing to voted ‘‘nay.’’ Had I been present for roll call educational needs of a growing population. I add more physical alterations and expansions vote number 579, Conyers (D–MI)—Amend- am immensely proud of the educators and ad- to the campus. Among these expansions has ment No. 6—Exempts settlement agreements ministrators in our state that dedicate their been the construction of a new 19,000 square that direct funds to remedy indirect harm re- lives to ensuring the success of our future foot athletic center to accommodate the sulting from lead in drinking water, I would generations. growth in participation within women’s ath- Mr. Speaker, I’m honored to represent the have voted ‘‘nay.’’ Had I been present for roll letics. Furthermore, under the guidance of Sis- Bondurant-Farrar School District in the United call vote number 580, Passage of H.R. 732— ter Francis Sullivan, the school transformed its States Congress and commend them for their Stop Settlement Slush Funds Act of 2017, I former gymnasium into the Doris M. Byrne outstanding achievements in their community. would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Had I been present Performing Arts Center which offers Broadway I ask that my colleagues in the United States for roll call vote number 581, Passage H.R. quality experiences for both performers and House of Representatives join me in congratu- 3898 Otto Warmbier North Korea Nuclear patrons. These installments not only serve to lating the Bondurant-Farrar School District and Sanctions Act, as amended, I would have improve the experiences of students attending in wishing them all nothing but continued suc- voted ‘‘yea.’’ the Academy, but are also available to benefit cess. f the greater West Essex community as well. f Mount Saint Dominic Academy remains today A TRIBUTE TO ELDORA GOWING HONORING MOUNT SAINT DOMINIC one of New Jersey’s foremost educational. in- ACADEMY’S 125TH ANNIVERSARY stitutions. HON. DAVID YOUNG Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our col- OF IOWA HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN leagues join me in congratulating Mount Saint IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Dominic Academy on its 125th Anniversary. OF NEW JERSEY Wednesday, October 25, 2017 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise Wednesday, October 25, 2017 PERSONAL EXPLANATION today to recognize and congratulate Eldora Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise Gowing of Shenandoah, Iowa, on the very today to honor Mount Saint Dominic Academy HON. BILL HUIZENGA special occasion of her 100th birthday. of Caldwell, New Jersey on the occasion of its OF MICHIGAN Our world has changed a great deal during 125th Anniversary. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the course of Eldora’s life. Since her birth, we Mount Saint Dominic Academy serves the Wednesday, October 25, 2017 have revolutionized air travel and walked on surrounding community as an all-girls Catholic the moon. We have invented the television, College Preparatory School dedicated to the Mr. HUIZENGA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today cellular phones and the internet. We have education of young women from a variety of regarding missed votes due to a funeral. Had fought in wars overseas, seen the rise and fall ethnic, religious, and economic backgrounds. I been present for roll call vote number 569, of Soviet communism and witnessed the birth The institution’s goal of inclusivity aims to both H.R. 3551 C-TPAT Reauthorization Act of of new democracies. Eldora lived through inspire and empower students to realize their 2017, I would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Had I been eighteen United States presidents and twenty- unique gifts and talents in an academic atmos- present for roll call vote number 570, S. 504 two governors of Iowa. In her lifetime, the pop- phere fostering excellence, respect, and diver- Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business ulation of the United States has more than tri- sity while at the same time reinforcing the Travel Cards Act of 2017, I would have voted pled. Christian-centered value of moral integrity. ‘‘yea.’’ Had I been present for roll call vote Mr. Speaker, I am honored to represent The history of Mount Saint Dominic Acad- number 571, Approval of the Journal, I would Eldora in the United States Congress and I’m emy began in 1892 with the Academy’s found- have voted ‘‘yea.’’ Had I been present for roll proud to recognize her today on this momen- ing by the Sisters of Saint Dominic. Although call vote number 572, Ordering the Previous tous occasion. I ask that my colleagues in the the Caldwell Dominican congregation was ini- Question on H. Res. 577—The combined rule United States House of Representatives join tially based in Jersey City, New Jersey, the providing for consideration of the bill H.R. me in congratulating her on reaching this mile- municipality was ravaged by tuberculosis 469—Sunshine for Regulations and Regu- stone and in wishing her nothing but the best. throughout the 1880s. With the threat of con- latory Decrees and Settlements Act of 2017 f tracting the disease an everyday concern, and of the bill H.R. 732—Stop Settlement Mother Mary Catharine Muth sought out a lo- Slush Funds Act of 2017, I would have voted HONORING THE LIFE OF VAN cation for her ill sisters to recover. This refuge ‘‘yea.’’ Had I been present for roll call vote MICHAEL was found twenty miles west of Jersey City in number 573, Adoption of H. Res. 577—The the Borough of Caldwell. It was here where combined rule providing for consideration of HON. JOHN J. DUNCAN, JR. Mother Catharine purchased the Harrison Es- the bill H.R. 469—Sunshine for Regulations OF TENNESSEE tate on Roseland Avenue, a plot of land com- and Regulatory Decrees and Settlements Act IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES prising of a small home and garden where of 2017 and of the bill H.R. 732—Stop Settle- Mother Catharine taught day students and ment Slush Funds Act of 2017, I would have Wednesday, October 25, 2017 boarders, all the while, looking after her ill Sis- voted ‘‘yea.’’ Had I been present for roll call Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, ters. vote number 574, H.R. 2142 INTERDICT Act, on October 11, a great Tennessean and very

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.004 E25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1425 patriotic American, Van Michael, passed away quite a character. He always had a joke A TRIBUTE TO DAMIAN BELL at the age of 82. ready and a lot of times, he would make your Van was a longtime friend and supporter of day. We were friends for more than 40 years HON. DAVID YOUNG both me and my late father. and he was always encouraging, always thinking of ways to make things better.’’ OF IOWA He was a lawyer, successful businessman, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and served as City Judge for Sweetwater, ‘‘Sweetwater, and the county, will miss him,’’ Lowe added. ‘‘He was a large part of Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Tennessee. the community.’’ He also enjoyed his work in Washington as Michael was preceded in death by his par- Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise the lobbyist for the National Christmas Tree ents, W.E. Michael and Claudia Francis Mi- today to recognize and congratulate Damian Growers Association. chael, and son Richard Michael. He is sur- Bell of Pleasant Hill, Iowa for being honored Van was the primary developer of a popular vived by his wife of 57 years, Margaret (Peg) with the Carnegie Medal by the Carnegie Hero Tennessee tourist attraction called the Lost Bowland Michael, his daughter and son-in- Fund Commission for the role he played in Sea, an amazing body of water in an under- law, Teresa Michael Glasgow and Steven saving the life of Richard Rauzi. ground cavern in Monroe County. Glasgow of Franklin, and his grandchildren, Richard was snowshoeing and taking photo- I still remember riding in a boat with my dad Carson and Campbell Glasgow. graphs on Lake Ahquabi on February 14, at the Grand Opening of the Lost Sea. He was a 1952 graduate of Tennessee Mili- 2016, when he fell through the ice trying to He also was a leader in bringing about tary Institute. He went on to receive his rescue a goose frozen in the slush. Damian, Cherohala Skyway, one of the Nation’s most bachelor and law degrees from Cumberland his friend Jesse Bannor, and their sons were beautiful scenic highways. University and practiced law in Sweetwater for 57 years at Michael and Michael Attys. ice fishing in a local shack. Damian’s son, Van was a very well-informed conservative Konnor, heard Richard yelling for help, and with strong views on the great issues of the f the two men raced to the rescue. Using a day. nearby canoe, Damian made his way over to As Sweetwater Mayor Doyle Lowe said, HONORING THE LIFE OF FALLEN Richard. Unable to pull him aboard, and with ‘‘Sweetwater and the County will miss him. He MISSISSIPPI ARMY SERGEANT the canoe threatening to tip over, Damian se- was a large part of the community.’’ (SGT) ERIC C. NEWMAN cured Richard to the boat with a rope, then Van Michael touched thousands of lives in stepped onto the ice and attempted to pull good and positive ways. This Country is a bet- Richard from the water before firefighters ar- ter place because of the life he led. HON. TRENT KELLY rived on scene to help in the efforts. Even ECORD I would like to include in the R the fol- OF MISSISSIPPI though he had been in the water for 40 min- lowing article about Van Michael from the utes on a 15 degree day, Richard survived IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Monroe County newspaper The Advocate & after two days with extreme hypothermia. Democrat. Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Mr. Speaker, I commend Damian Bell for his [From the Advocate and Democrat, Oct. 15, courage and heroic actions in helping to save Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, 2017] the life of Richard Rauzi. It is humbling to today I rise in memory of fallen Mississippi LOST SEA DEVELOPER VAN MICHAEL DIES AT know that there are people like Damian who Army Sergeant (SGT) Eric C. Newman, who 82 are willing to risk their own lives to save the gave his life while in service to our nation on (By Michael Thomas) life of another. I ask that my colleagues in the October 14, 2010, during Operation Enduring A man who helped bring The Lost Sea to United States House of Representatives will Freedom. SGT Newman was killed when prominence among many other life accom- join me in congratulating Damian on receiving enemy combatants attacked his unit in Akatzai plishments died Oct. 11 at the age of 82. this esteemed designation and in wishing him Van Reeves Michael was known for a lot of Kalay, Afghanistan. SGT Newman was as- nothing but the best. things throughout his long life, but it was signed to the 1st Squadron, 38th Cavalry his part in the development of the former Regiment, 525th Battlefield Surveillance Bri- f Craighead Caverns into the Lost Sea that gade, XVIII Airborne Corps, Fort Bragg, North will mark his legacy. HONORING THE SERVICE AND LIFE ‘‘I can’t think of anyone that knows more Carolina. OF SGT. FRED CUARESMA YURONG about The Lost Sea than him,’’ said Lisa SGT Newman, a Waynesboro, Mississippi McClung, director of The Lost Sea. ‘‘I used native, graduated from Wayne County High HON. JIM COSTA to get him to come out and talk to the new School. SGT Newman worked for the OF CALIFORNIA tour guides and share some of the history of Waynesboro Police Department several years IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES it with them so they would know it first- before joining the Army in 2006. hand. He was a wonderful person. He stopped Wednesday, October 25, 2017 by to see us frequently and tell us stories According to the Associated Press, Waynes- about The Lost Sea. I can’t believe he’s gone. boro Police Chief James Bunch said, ‘‘SGT Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today. to We will definitely miss him.’’ Newman was an outstanding individual. It honor the life and accomplishments of U.S. McClung said she did not know anyone who didn’t surprise me at all that he would sacrifice Army Sergeant Fred Cuaresma Yurong. Fol- loved The Lost Sea more than Van Michael. himself for his country.’’ lowing the Japanese attacks on Pearl Harbor, ‘‘He was passionate about it becoming an Fred answered President Roosevelt’s call to attraction and he worked relentlessly in the SGT Newman’s funeral was held at Free- man Funeral Home in Waynesboro. He was service and joined the 1st Filipino Infantry early 60s to get it open,’’ she said. ‘‘He kept Regiment. He went on to serve in both New on and on until he was able to see it become buried at Hebron Cemetery, located in Wayne reality. He said he would stand on Main County, Mississippi. Guinea and the Philippines during WWII. Dur- Street and count the car tags of people who ing this time, Fred served with distinction, SGT Newman was awarded the Bronze reaching the rank of Sergeant and displayed a were coming through going to Chattanooga Star, the Purple Heart, the Army Commenda- or Knoxville and he knew if it were open to level of commitment to serving others that the public, they would stop and see it.’’ tion Medal, the Afghanistan Campaign Medal, would show throughout the rest of his life. In a story commemorating the 50th anni- the Iraq Campaign Medal, the National De- Out of the 250,000 Filipino soldiers who versary of The Lost Sea, Michael said, ‘‘It fense Service Medal, the Global War on Ter- served during World War II, Sergeant Yurong was called the ‘Lake Room’ until 1965. Peo- rorism Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the was one of the few to be granted citizenship ple had come and gone in the cavern before Overseas Service Ribbon, the NATO Medal, that, but only a few had actually seen the in a mass naturalization ceremony held in the Combat Infantrymans Badge and the Camp Beale on March 20, 1943. big room with the cave. Nobody in Sweet- Parachute Badge. water believed it existed.’’ Upon completion of his service, Sergeant According to family members, Michael was SGT Newman is survived by his wife, Yurong married his wife in the Philippines be- also instrumental in helping bring the Charidy Newman; mother, Dianne Newman; fore relocating back to California and raising a Cherohala Skyway into existence, something stepdaughter, Larissa Leigh; grandmother, Ro- family of five children. He continued his serv- his father, W.E. Michael, helped start. wena Loper; grandmother, Jolene Newman; ice to the community through his active in- Michael was also well known in the City of uncle, Michael Earl Newman; aunt, Sandra volvement in the American Legion and several Sweetwater, where his law office was known Newman; and sister, Kimberly Delbosco. as the ‘‘Michael and Michael building.’’ Filipino organizations in Stockton, California. ‘‘Everybody knew that building on Oak SGT Newman proudly served our nation to His contributions speak to the testament of our Street,’’ Sweetwater Mayor Doyle Lowe said. protect the freedoms we all enjoy. His service country’s servicemen and women selfless ‘‘I hated to hear that Van had died. He was will always be remembered. commitment to serve our communities. While

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.008 E25OCPT1 E1426 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 25, 2017 he passed away on May 26, 1976, the impact that enable Iran and Hezbollah to terrorize the cellular phones and the internet. We have of his contributions to this country and to State of Israel and other civilian populations fought in wars overseas, seen the rise and fall those whose lives he touched remains just as across the region. Both of these bills rightly of Soviet communism and witnessed the birth strong today. His children continue to honor enjoy large bipartisan support—I am proud to of new democracies. Marcella lived through his legacy by engaging in community building join more than 320 of my colleagues in co- eighteen United States presidents and twenty- and serving others, values that their father in- sponsoring H.R. 1698 and more than 110 two governors of Iowa. In her lifetime, the pop- stilled in all of them. have co-sponsored H.R. 3329. ulation of the United States has more than tri- Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to Mr. Speaker, I also stand today in support pled. join me in honoring the service and life of a of H.R. 3342, the Sanctioning Hezbollah’s Il- Mr. Speaker, I am honored to represent man whose commitment to serving others was licit Use of Civilians as Defenseless Shields Marcella in the United States Congress and displayed through a life of service to his coun- Act, introduced by my good friend MIKE GAL- I’m proud to recognize her today on this mo- try and community. It is both fitting and appro- LAGHER, and H. Res. 359, introduced by my mentous occasion. I ask that my colleagues in priate that we recognize Sergeant Yurong, friend TED DEUTCH, urging the European the United States House of Representatives who made sacrifices for the freedoms enjoyed Union to designate Hezbollah in its entirety as join me in congratulating her and in wishing by our country, served with distinction, and a terrorist organization. These bills expose nothing but continued happiness. went on to leave a legacy that is carried on by Hezbollah for what it is: a merciless organized f his family today as he is honored for his serv- crime organization wrapped in a terrorist orga- ice. I join the family of Sergeant Fred nization, masquerading as a political party. HONORING THE LIFE OF U.S. Cuaresma Yurong and wish them the best as H.R. 3342 directs the President to apply pen- ARMY SERGEANT (SGT) JACOB we honor his service with the Congressional alties, principally visa bans, against individuals DAN DONES Gold Medal along with the other Filipino Vet- determined to direct Hezbollah’s use of inno- erans of World War II. cent human lives to protect its cruel mecha- HON. TRENT KELLY f nisms of murder. Meanwhile, H. Res. 359 OF MISSISSIPPI urges the European Union to recognize what IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES SUPPORTING MEASURES AGAINST should be plain as day: there is no merely po- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 IRAN AND HEZBOLLAH (H.R. 1698, litical wing to Hezbollah. Rather, the entire or- H. RES. 359, H.R. 3342, & H.R. 3329) ganization is dedicated to expanding Iranian Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, influence in the region and threatening Israel’s today I rise in memory of U.S. Army Sergeant HON. CHRISTOPHER H. SMITH existence by all means possible. (SGT) Jacob Dan Dones who died while de- OF NEW JERSEY Mr. Speaker, the United States Congress fending our great nation on October 20, 2005, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES must get these bills to the President’s desk as during Operation Iraqi Freedom. SGT Dones was killed when his forward operating base Wednesday, October 25, 2017 soon as possible. Just this week, Prime Min- ister Netanyahu addressed the Israeli Knesset was attacked by enemy forces using indirect Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I and underscored the urgent task of denying fire in Hit, Iraq. SGT Dones was assigned to rise today in support of four critical pieces of Iran’s attempts to secure strategic footholds in the 2nd Squadron, 11th Armored Cavalry legislation that will significantly strengthen our Syria and acquire nuclear weapons. Also this Regiment, Fort Irwin, California that was task efforts to counter the Iranian menace in the week, Defense Minister Lieberman told Israeli organized under the 155th Armored Brigade Middle East. legislators that a volley of rockets fired into the Combat Team, Tupelo, Mississippi. Appropriately, these measures follow the Israeli-controlled Golan Heights from Syria According to the Associated Press, SGT President’s determination, announced two was ‘‘intentional . . . carried out by a cell op- Dones was born March 5, 1984, in Dimmitt, weeks ago, that the suspension of sanctions erated by Hezbollah.’’ Texas. SGT Dones enlisted in the U.S. Army under the Iran nuclear deal no longer serves Mr. Speaker, I would also like to note that shortly after his graduation from Dimmitt High the national security interests of the United Monday was the 34th anniversary of the hor- School in 2002. States. President Trump’s determination sim- rific 1983 bombing. of the U.S. Marine Corps SGT Dones was remembered by many who ply acknowledges the reality that has existed Barracks in Beirut perpetrated by Hezbollah knew him on a memorial website. Elizabeth since day one of the deal—the nuclear deal with Iranian support that killed 241 Americans. Nunez of San Diego, California wrote a tribute put the United States on a perilous course to Just a few blocks away from here, at the Ma- in his honor. ‘‘I served with Jacob for a few confronting a nuclear armed Iran. rine Corps Barracks in Washington D.C., Vice days while I was on election duty in Hit, Iraq. By agreeing to submit to a minimal and in- President Pence commemorated this anniver- He was one of the soldiers providing security adequate standard of inspections, Iran earned sary on Monday, vowing that America will for the elections and I was one of four female international recognition of its enrichment pro- never forget those who gave everything in Marines there to search female Iraqis who gram, reaped billions of dollars in sanctions service to their country. Our fight against came to vote. He was a great guy and kept all relief, and positioned itself to become a nu- Hezbollah began that October day in Beirut of us laughing and helped us to not be afraid. clear threshold power by the time the deal ex- and we must see it through until the evil of I still cry when I think about him and what a pires in less than a decade. In addition to Iran and Hezbollah are completely van- shining light he was to all of us on the election these unacceptable concessions, Tehran man- quished. team.’’ aged to secure an agreement that ignores its I urge my colleagues to pass these critical A funeral service was held at the Immacu- massive support for international terrorism and measures to honor the memory of our fallen late Conception Catholic Church located in its pursuit of nuclear blackmail through an ad- soldiers and our unfinished work against this SGT Dones’ hometown. Following the service, vanced ballistic missile program. pernicious threat. SGT Dones was laid to rest at Castro Memo- Mr. Speaker, the bills we are considering f rial Gardens in Dimmitt, Texas. today are a first step towards correcting the SGT Dones is survived by his parents, balance in our relationship with the Iranian re- A TRIBUTE TO MARCELLA Danny Dones and Rosa Dones; his fiancee, gime—a balance that must have as its first pri- HAMANN Mindy LeAnn Gonzales; his daughter, Alyssa ority the national security interests of the Monique Gonzales; his two brothers, Daniel United States and its regional allies, especially HON. DAVID YOUNG Dones and Jason James Dones; his two sis- Israel. OF IOWA ters, Jessica Ramirez and Priscilla Rojas; his My good friend and Chairman, ED ROYCE, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES paternal grandparents, George Dones and introduced two of these pieces of legislation Maria Estella Layva; and his maternal grand- that will expand and refine sanctions against Wednesday, October 25, 2017 mother, Guadalupe Ramirez. Iran’s ballistic missile program, its trade in Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise SGT Dones was the recipient of the fol- conventional weapons, and the illicit network today to recognize and congratulate Marcella lowing awards: the Bronze Star, the Purple of financial support for its regional terrorist Hamann of Atlantic, Iowa, on the special occa- Heart, the National Defense Service Medal, proxy Hezbollah. H.R. 1698, the Iran Ballistic sion of her 100th birthday. the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Missiles and International Sanctions Enforce- Our world has changed a great deal during Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service ment Act, and H.R. 3329, the Hezbollah Inter- the course of Marcella’s life. Since her birth, Medal, the Army Service Ribbon and the national Financing Prevention Amendments we have revolutionized air travel and walked Combat Infantryman’s Badge (CIB). He was Act of 2017, target the money and resources on the moon. We have invented the television, an Expert Infantry Rifleman (EIR).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.011 E25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1427 SGT Dones demonstrated courage and Julian was born to Charles Fred and Doris gomery County, first as pastor of Mt. Olive bravery protecting the freedoms we all enjoy. Franklin Ridlen in Decatur, Illinois on February Missionary Baptist Church, then as founder of His service and sacrifice for America will not 4, 1940. He graduated from MacArthur High Tabernacle Missionary Baptist Church and be forgotten. School in 1958. On June 1, 1963, Julian was Christian School. f married to his wife Susanne Smith in Logans- Although renowned statewide for his vast port, Indiana. civic involvement in the NAACP, Legend HONORING MAYOR JAMES ‘‘JIM’’ He received his Bachelor of Arts degree in Bank, Chamber of Commerce, United Way, OSCOVITCH, TOWNSHIP OF history, with minors in political science, chem- hospitals, colleges and associations, it was his BYRAM, NEW JERSEY istry, and English from Anderson University. gift of uniting people through powerful prayer, He then pursued his J.D. at the George Wash- joyous celebration, and the simplicity of the HON. RODNEY P. FRELINGHUYSEN ington University Law School in Washington, words ‘‘I love you’’ that made him such a Ten- OF NEW JERSEY D.C. before becoming a practicing attorney in nessee treasure. His servant leadership, con- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 1968. tinual encouragement, and fierce defense of Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Anyone who knew Julian will tell you that he the Christian faith inspired thousands. His mis- held three remarkable qualities: he was a his- Mr. FRELINGHUYSEN. Mr. Speaker, I rise sion to return Christ to the central meanings of torian, a true statesman, and had a deep love today to honor Mayor James ‘‘JIM’’ Oscovitch Christmas and Easter became The Jesus Sign for the political process. He was no stranger to from the Township of Byram, New Jersey. Ministry, extending from Clarksville-Mont- Mayor James ‘‘JIM’’ Oscovitch has given public service and frequently sought opportuni- gomery County to all 95 Tennessee counties over 20 years of service to the Township of ties to provide leadership in various levels of to communities nationwide. His life’s work was Byram and its residents as an elected official, government. He was elected City Court Judge his life. beginning his first term as a Council member in Logansport in 1971 and again in 1975. He On June 21, 2017 Pastor Terry left Clarks- in 1997 and then becoming Mayor in 2009. then served as Indiana State Treasurer for two ville on the evening train to Glory. His influ- During that time, he served on its Planning terms from 1979–1987. During this period, Ju- ence is far-reaching, his legacy is profound, Board and Recreation Committee. Jim has lian was responsible for the creation of the In- and his impact in our community is immeas- also served on the Board of Directors for the diana Bond Bank, which has had a significant urable. We rejoice in simply knowing him. New Jersey Conference of Mayors, and as a impact on the State of Indiana by helping us f member of Legislative Committee on Land utilize our outstanding bond ratings and passing the interest savings onto all of our local A TRIBUTE TO JACK AND MONA Use for the New Jersey League of Municipali- QUEE ties. schools, county and city governments, parks, Jim is also very active within the community. and countless other entities. For the past ten He was a founding Board member of the years, Julian served as Judge of the Cass Cir- HON. DAVID YOUNG Friends of Waterloo Village; a past Co-Chair- cuit Court, serving as Senior Judge until his OF IOWA man of the Andover-Byram Chamber of Com- retirement in December 2016. In this capacity, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES he spearheaded many local initiatives that will merce; and a past Board of Governors mem- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 ber and Parliamentarian of the Cranberry Lake benefit our community and the great State of Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise Community Club. He has also served as a Indiana for years to come. today to recognize and congratulate Jack and coach in the Township’s youth sports pro- Julian possessed another quality that can Mona Quee, of Afton, Iowa for being selected grams and Byram’s Boy Scout Troop 276, be recognized all too well: a servant’s heart. as Union County’s 2017 inductee into the Iowa along with his son Matthew. An outdoors en- Over the years, he was very active in various 4–H Hall of Fame. thusiast, Jim can regularly be seen hiking and local organizations throughout our community, Over the past 50 years, the Quees have biking local trails, or conducting spin classes giving back more than we could ever return to been stepping up to help with youth wherever at a local fitness center. him. He served in leadership positions as Jim has always been a very ‘‘hands-on’’ President of the Red Cross Board, Chairman help is needed. From organizing food for the elected official, and in over eight years as of the U.S. Bicentennial Committee, Vice Saddle Club trail rides, to chaperoning youth Mayor, he has worked hard to establish a high President of the United Fund, and President of while camping at the Iowa State Fair, Jack level of professionalism within the township. the Youth Services Bureau. He was an active and Mona have been providing youth leader- Jim quickly earned a reputation for maintaining member of the Kiwanis Club, the Chamber of ship in Union County for generations. It was in respect and decorum during public meetings. Commerce, the Mental Health Association, 1970 that they first became involved with 4–H As ‘‘the face of Byram Township,’’ he has and the Salvation Army. Julian also served as as Horse and Riders club leaders and haven’t earned the respect of our neighboring munici- an Elder and taught Sunday school at Calvary stopped helping out since. Mr. Speaker, Jack and Mona’s efforts em- palities and Sussex County, working closely Presbyterian Church. body the Iowa spirit and I am honored to rep- with them to establish and maintain shared Julian leaves behind his wife, Susanne, to resent them, and Iowans like them, in the services programs. carry on his legacy of service to fellow Hoo- Jim Oscovitch is ending his over two dec- siers. His passing is a great loss for our com- United States Congress. I ask that my col- ades of service to Byram on December 31, munity and the State of Indiana. Today, we leagues in the United States House of Rep- 2017. As Byram’s Mayor—and most impor- recognize and respect that he led an amazing resentatives join me in congratulating Jack tantly, as a friend to Byram residents—Jim life and impacted more lives than we will ever and Mona for this award and wishing them motivates everyone he works with to do their know. Rest in peace Julian, he will never be nothing but continued success. best. I am proud to have someone of his cal- forgotten. f iber among my constituents. f HONORING DR. MICHAEL SNELL Mr. Speaker, I ask that you and our col- HONORING JIMMY TERRY, SR. ON EARNING THE ‘‘SUPER- leagues join me in congratulating Mayor INTENDENT OF THE YEAR James ‘‘Jim’’ Oscovitch, on the occasion of his HON. MARSHA BLACKBURN AWARD’’ FROM THE PENNSYL- 20 years of extraordinary public service. VANIA ASSOCIATION OF SCHOOL OF TENNESSEE f ADMINISTRATORS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES TRIBUTE TO HON. JULIAN L. Wednesday, October 25, 2017 RIDLEN HON. SCOTT PERRY Mrs. BLACKBURN. Mr. Speaker, today we OF PENNSYLVANIA HON. TODD ROKITA honor Jimmy Terry, Sr., beloved pastor, de- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES voted family man, tireless community leader, OF INDIANA Wednesday, October 25, 2017 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and passionate proclaimer of the love of Jesus. Mr. PERRY. Mr. Speaker, today I extend my Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Raised by his beloved ‘‘Aunt Lucy’’ in Tus- sincere congratulations to Dr. Michael Snell, Mr. ROKITA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to caloosa, Alabama, Pastor Terry served in the Superintendent of the Central York School honor a prominent Hoosier leader. Mr. Julian United States Navy on the USS Saratoga and District, for being named the ‘‘Superintendent Ridlen passed away on October 10, 2017 sur- in his hometown of Dayton, Ohio before he of the Year’’ by the Pennsylvania Association rounded by his loving family. was called to minister to Clarksville-Mont- of School Administrators.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.014 E25OCPT1 E1428 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 25, 2017 Dr. Snell earned his bachelor’s degree at CONGRATULATING CHIEF STEVEN TRIBUTE TO CROSSROADS Kutztown University and his master’s and doc- T. EDWARDS ON HIS RETIREMENT CHRISTIAN CHURCH toral degrees from Temple University. He gained administrative experience in the Hemp- HON. KEN CALVERT field and West York Area School Districts be- HON. STENY H. HOYER OF CALIFORNIA fore ultimately being named Superintendent at OF MARYLAND IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Central York School District. Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Dr. Snell presides over a growing school IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES district of more than 5,800 students, and a Mr. CALVERT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Wednesday, October 25, 2017 steadfast dedication to providing educational congratulate Crossroads Christian Church, lo- opportunities through which students strive to Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise to offer my cated in my hometown of Corona, California, as it celebrates a major milestone in the achieve their full potential. Dr. Snell is a rec- congratulations to former Prince George’s church’s history. On this date in 1892, a small ognized leader in our community, serving on County Fire Department Chief Steven T. the boards of the York County Economic Alli- group of about ten people joined together to Edwards as he prepares to retire as Director ance, the Byrnes Health Education Center and worship in a small building in Corona, estab- myriad other organizations. His numerous of the Maryland Fire Rescue Institute (MFRI) lishing the Crossroads Church. Now, 125 honors and awards are a testament to his after twenty-four years. I’ve had the pleasure years later, Crossroads Christian Church con- commitment to students, his personal integrity of working with him throughout those years, tinues to be a house of worship in Corona, and his tireless work ethic. including in my capacity as Co-Chair of the though the church has grown a little larger Dr. Snell’s colleagues describe a forward- Congressional Fire Services Caucus. than that original group of ten in 1892. In fact, Crossroads has seen tremendous thinking leader who looks ‘‘outside the box’’ for Steve is a fifty-year veteran of the fire serv- growth since its founding. Within its first year, solutions rather than settling for obvious ones. ices. He began his career with the Prince His peers also describe a true professional the church was already in need of a larger George’s County Fire Department as a high who dedicates his time to mentoring new su- space and looking for a new building. The school cadet. Over the years, Steve rose perintendents and preparing the next genera- growth experienced in those early days of tion of educational leaders. through the ranks and became Chief in 1989. Crossroads would become a trend over the On behalf of Pennsylvania’s Fourth Con- After a four-year tenure marked by accolades next 125 years. Crossroads experienced gressional District, I congratulate Dr. Michael for his leadership and citations for the Depart- moves and the building of larger churches in Snell on being named the ‘‘Superintendent of ment—including the International Association the 1960s under the leadership of Pastor Ted the Year’’ by the Pennsylvania Association of of Fire Chiefs Award for Excellence—he Smith, in the early 1980s under the leadership School Administrators. I wish him continued stepped down to take on a new challenge of Pastor Tim Coop, and most recently in great success and service in the years to leading MFRI. A world-renowned training insti- 1993 under the leadership of Pastor Barry McMurtrie. come. tution for firefighters and emergency services Today, the Crossroads Christian Church personnel, MFRI prepares more than 38,000 f and the Crossroads Christian School are lo- students each year to enter the fire services. cated at a beautiful site, where Kellogg Ave- IN RECOGNITION OF RACHEL Under Steve’s leadership, MFRI set high nue meets Ontario Avenue in Corona. To- ISKOW, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR OF standards that help ensure that trainees are gether, the church and the school are integral MUTUAL HOUSING CALIFORNIA ready to face any emergency when they go parts of the Corona community and touch the AND MUTUAL HOUSING MANAGE- out to serve in fire departments across the lives of families far beyond those who attend MENT country. MFRI has been working closely with them. Crossroads continues to take an active the Congressional Fire Services Caucus for role reaching out to young people throughout HON. DORIS O. MATSUI more than a quarter-century, conducting train- the region and encouraging them to touch the lives of others with simple acts of care and OF CALIFORNIA ing programs for Congressional staff. Steve kindness. has been instrumental in preparing these pro- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, over the past 125 years grams and making them so informative. Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Crossroads Christian Church has made an in- Steve has also contributed his time and tal- valuable impact in the lives of a countless Ms. MATSUI. Mr. Speaker, today I stand to ents to advancing the safety and health of fire number of members of our community. I join recognize Ms. Rachel Iskow on the occasion with everyone at the church in celebrating this of her retirement from the position of Execu- service personnel at the national level. In 1997, he was named President of the North remarkable anniversary and I look forward to tive Director of Mutual Housing California and the next 125 years. May God continue to Mutual Housing Management. I ask all my col- America Fire Training Directors, a forum for exchanging information and best practices bless Crossroads Christian Church and all of leagues to join me in honoring Rachel and her the people who worship there, and may God among state fire training and education pro- dedication to sustainable housing. bless America. Since its incorporation in 1988, Mutual grams. In addition, Steve has served in lead- f Housing California has worked to create a lo- ership positions with National Fire Protection, cally-led nonprofit that spurs the revitalization the National Board on Fire Service Profes- A TRIBUTE TO GLEA MICKELSON of low-income communities by strengthening sional Certification, and the Congressional Fire existing neighborhood leaders and houses. As Services Institute’s National Advisory Com- HON. DAVID YOUNG Mutual Housing’s Executive Director, Rachel mittee. For the latter, he served as Chair from OF IOWA has utilized her experience in nonprofit leader- 2004 to 2006, and we worked closely together IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ship, housing development, and community outreach. Under her guidance, Mutual Housing to ensure that Congress was providing fire de- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 has seen the expansion of environmentally- partments with all the tools necessary to carry Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise friendly developments, inclusive housing for all out their work safely and effectively. today to recognize and congratulate Glea residents, and overall compassionate housing. I’m proud that Prince George’s County has Mickelson of Atlantic, Iowa, on the very spe- Rachel supports permanent solutions to the produced such a fine national leader for the cial occasion of her 100th birthday which was pressing housing needs of our region’s diverse fire services in our country. Throughout the on August 11, 2017. families. Ultimately, Rachel’s work has led to years I’ve known Steve, I’ve seen him give all Our world has changed a great deal during positive outcomes for the health and stability his passion and talents to the work of sup- the course of Glea’s life. Since her birth, we of families and for Sacramento as a whole. have revolutionized air travel and walked on porting firefighters and emergency services Mr. Speaker, I am proud to stand and honor the moon. We have invented the television, Ms. Rachel Iskow today and to wish her the personnel and their families. I hope my col- cellular phones and the internet. We have best of luck in her retirement from Mutual leagues will join me in congratulating Chief fought in wars overseas, seen the rise and fall Housing. I ask all my colleagues to join me in Steve Edwards on his retirement, and thank- of Soviet communism and witnessed the birth paying tribute to Rachel for her unwavering ing him for his work on behalf of the fire serv- of new democracies. Glea has lived through dedication to sustainable housing. ices in Maryland and across this nation. eighteen United States presidents and twenty-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.019 E25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1429 two governors of Iowa. In her lifetime, the pop- RECOGNIZING AMRO FABRICATING During his service in WWII, Filemon was ulation of the United States has more than tri- CORP. ON ITS 40TH ANNIVERSARY captured by the Japanese, tortured as a pris- pled. oner of war, and forced to dig his own grave. Mr. Speaker, I am honored to represent HON. LINDA T. SA´ NCHEZ Luckily he was rescued. After the war, he re- Glea in the United States Congress and I’m OF CALIFORNIA united with his family and waited for his col- proud to recognize her today on this momen- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lege to reopen, at which point he returned to tous occasion. I ask that my colleagues in the Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Mapua Engineering College to finish his un- United States House of Representatives join dergraduate studies. Upon completion of his ´ me in congratulating her and in wishing noth- Ms. SANCHEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to degree in mechanical engineering, Filemon ing but continued happiness. celebrate the pivotal role that small busi- graduated as one of the top students in his nesses in California’s 38th district are playing class and scored among the highest on his f in transporting humanity to new frontiers in our engineering board exams. This marked the HONORING SOPHIA ANN MYERS solar system. As a proud member of the beginning of a long and distinguished engi- NASA Caucus, I know that the extraordinary neering career. feats that the United States has made in HON. STEVEN M. PALAZZO space exploration and human spaceflight Filemon’s engineering career started when OF MISSISSIPPI would not be possible without the ingenuity of he was a junior engineer assigned to the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES small businesses and manufacturers across Caliraya Dam and Hydroelectric Power Plant Wednesday, October 25, 2017 our country. in Caliraya, Laguna. He then became the I want to recognize one such manufacturer, Chief Engineer for Marcelo Fertilizer Plant and Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to AMRO Fabricating Corp., which is celebrating then Chief Engineer of Union Carbide in Iligan recognize and remember Sophia Myers, who its 40th anniversary next week. In 1977, City. After this point, brilliant as he was in his joined our Heavenly Father on October 20, AMRO was established in South El Monte, career, Filemon was recruited by PHINMA, a 2017 after an eight-month battle with a type of California by Michael K. and Thora A. Riley. huge conglomerate in the Philippines, where brain cancer known as Diffuse Intrinsic The company first entered the aerospace in- he became their Chief Engineer and Project Pontine Glioma (DIPG). dustry in 1979, and in 1986, McDonnell Doug- Manager. In this position, his leadership and To all who knew her, Sophia was as strong las selected AMRO to manufacture Isogrid as she was kind. Fondly referred to as ‘‘Bug’’, building expertise led him to oversee a mul- panels for the Titan IV rocket. Over the past titude of expansion and infrastructure projects, she is remembered as a confident and witty 30 years, AMRO has honed its forming proc- little girl with an infectious smile and laugh. including the building and construction of a ce- ess for Isogrid and Orthogrid designs, which ment plant and steel plant in Davao, a steel Sophia was a seven-year-old student at Oak allow metal structures to be both lightweight Park Elementary in Ocean Springs, Mississippi plant in Cebu, and a pulp and paper plant in and durable, and are critical for enabling Bulacan. and was admired and loved by those who spacecraft and aircraft to fly efficiently and knew her for her vibrant love of life. She en- safely. At this point in Filemon’s career, he was joyed the outdoors and was an accomplished I am proud of the integral work AMRO is brought on to the team at the PHINMA Cor- fisherman, having won two awards at Sea and contributing to the development of NASA’s porate Headquarters in Makati. During this Sail Camp last year. Sophia was a fast runner Space Launch System (SLS) and the Orion time, Filemon decided that the corporate envi- and enjoyed running 1-mile races with her spacecraft, which will carry U.S. astronauts ronment of wearing suits and attending board dad. She excelled at a variety of sports and farther than ever before and eventually to meetings was not for him, and decided to go participated in swimming, soccer, and was a Mars. Just this August, AMRO delivered win- work for Roblett, an international engineering member of the Girl Scouts. Her mother de- dow panels for the Orion spacecraft that astro- company. It was at Roblett where he com- scribes her as a talented dancer with her first nauts will use on its first manned mission, Ex- pleted the final project of his career, the Mosul lessons beginning when she was only two- ploration Mission–2, in the early 2020s. AMRO Dam in Iraq. years-old. She was a dancer on the competi- is also working on elements for the SLS’s core tive dance team Itty Bitty DKG and a student Upon his retirement, Filemon, petitioned by stage, which will carry the Orion spacecraft his two daughters who had come for graduate dancer at Donna’s Visual and Performing Arts beyond Earth’s orbit. Center. Sophia was also known to be a beau- school, immigrated to the United States. Dur- From 1977 to 2017, AMRO’s innovation in ing retirement, he enjoyed traveling, touring, tiful singer and regularly made up love songs spaceflight and aerospace have allowed it to for her mom and dad. fishing and spending time with his family, grow from just 6 employees to more than 250, which included his 6 children and 9 grand- Sophia was a child of the Lord and believed as well as to develop training programs for children. In 1992, Filemon passed away from in His love and goodness even when faced high school and university students. The U.S. cancer, may he rest in peace. with cancer. Although she was only seven- space program has an exciting future ahead of years-old when God called her home, it, in no small part due to the dynamism of He is survived today by his dear wife Sophia’s life and story have impacted not only America’s small businesses. Please join me in Beatriz, his 5 remaining children, and his 8 re- the Gulf Coast community, but international congratulating AMRO on its 40th anniversary. maining grandchildren. He is beloved and re- communities as well. Stories of hope, prayer, f membered by his family, relatives, and those and loss have been expressed to Sophia and whose lives he touched for his service during her family from communities in South Africa, HONORING THE SERVICE AND LIFE WWII and many throughout the world from his the United Kingdom, Australia, Germany, Fin- OF FILEMON ‘‘MEMOY’’ CABASAL engineering career. He had helped a lot of his land, France, Canada, Brazil, and Sweden to DANTES ALINEA relatives, friends, and ‘‘kababayan’’ to find name a few. Many people go through life work wherever he had a project to build. wishing to make an impression on the world, HON. JIM COSTA and Sophia did just that during her short time Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to OF CALIFORNIA join me in honoring a man who made im- on this Earth. Her goodness and love inspired IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES many and will continue to do so long after her mense sacrifices for his country and his family departure from this world. We offer thanks to Wednesday, October 25, 2017 through service during WWII, as well as con- the many doctors, nurses and medical staff Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to tributions made during his distinguished career who worked tirelessly to fight for Sophia and, honor the life of Filemon ‘‘Memoy’’ Cabasal as an engineer. It is both fitting and appro- when time came, made her comfortable during Dantes Alinea, Sr., and the accomplishments priate that we recognize a man who endured her final moments with her friends and family. of this distinguished gentleman. Filemon was hardships for the betterment of others, served I offer my sincerest condolences to Sophia’s living in the Philippines and attending Mapua his country with distinction, and went on to parents Angel and Josh Myers, as well as her Engineering College when WWII broke out. leave a legacy through his family and his life’s many friends and family who remember her as Upon the news of the war, Filemon imme- work as he is honored for his service. I join a joy for all who were lucky enough to meet diately gathered his sisters from their college the family of Filemon ‘‘Memoy’’ Cabasal her. From my family to yours, we bear this dorms and brought them back to Cabangan, Dantes Alinea, Sr. and wish them the best as grief with you and offer many prayers as well Zambales to be reunited with their parents. He we honor his service with the Congressional as thanks for gifting the world with as beautiful then enlisted and joined the military, where he Gold Medal along with the other Filipino vet- a person as Sophia ‘‘Bug’’ Myers. held a position in the Filipino Army. erans of World War II.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.023 E25OCPT1 E1430 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 25, 2017 A TRIBUTE TO RON LANDPHAIR HONORING DAVID GILL FOR RE- the Conference on H.R. 2810—National De- CEIVING THE 2017 AWARD OF fense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018; HONOR BY WESTERN GROWERS YES on H.R. 2266—Additional Supplemental HON. DAVID YOUNG Appropriations for Disaster Relief Require- OF IOWA HON. JEFF DENHAM ments Act, 2017, as amended; YES on Motion OF CALIFORNIA to Recommit S. 585—Dr. Chris Kirkpatrick IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017; and Wednesday, October 25, 2017 YES on Passage of S. 585—Dr. Chris Kirk- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 patrick Whistleblower Protection Act of 2017. Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. DENHAM. Mr. Speaker, I, along with my f today to recognize and congratulate Ron colleague Representative JIMMY PANETTA, rise Landphair, of Mount Ayr, Iowa for being se- today to congratulate and honor Mr. David CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND LEG- lected as a member of the Mount Ayr Commu- Gill, who was selected by Western Growers to ACY OF MS. VIRGENE WEBB nity School’s Hall of Fame. receive the 2017 Award of Honor for his nu- PETERSON Ron graduated from Mount Ayr High School merous contributions and esteemed leadership in 1968. He received an education degree and in the agriculture industry. HON. STEVE STIVERS Mr. Gill, a third generation California grower, returned to his Alma Mater as an industrial OF OHIO began his agricultural career at age six by arts teacher and assistant wrestling coach in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES helping his father and grandfather install pipes 1980. Known for his building trades and draft- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 on their farm. He continued working on his fa- ing classes, students were tasked with build- ther’s ranch while attending California Poly- Mr. STIVERS. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on ing houses, designing commercial buildings technic State University. In 1979, he and his behalf of the people of Ohio’s 15th Congres- and school additions, and restoring local land- brother, Steve, founded Rio Farms in Ventura sional District to celebrate the life and legacy marks. City. Then, in 1983, they formed Gills Onions of one of Clinton County’s most distinguished Mr. Speaker, Ron’s dedication to his com- and pioneered the first system to deliver citizens, a woman who devoted her life to the munity embodies the Iowa spirit and I am hon- peeled, sliced, and diced onions in the food service of others, Ms. Virgene Webb Peterson. ored to represent him, and Iowans like him, in processing industry. It is now the largest onion Born in 1924, Ms. Peterson spent nearly all the United States Congress. I ask that all of processor in the United States. 93 of her years working to improve the lives my colleagues in the United States House of David has routinely advocated to Congress of her Clinton County neighbors by under- Representatives join me in congratulating Ron and the state legislature about the agriculture taking one of the most noble of all profes- for his achievements and in wishing him noth- industry’s most significant issues regarding sions: teaching children. From the onset of her ing but continued success. labor, water, and regulatory compliance laws. career at Kingman Township School in 1943, Gills Onions has also focused on reducing to her retirement from Denver Place in 1993, f their carbon footprint by developing a system thousands of students passed through her that uses the waste from onion processing to classroom, and each one left motivated by Ms. HONORING 1ST LT. DONALD generate electricity and eliminate disposal Peterson’s love of learning. GILLEN (RET.) costs. To attempt to quantify Ms. Peterson’s im- As Gill Onions and Rio Farms continued to pact is impossible. She has inspired genera- grow, David played an integral role in some of tions of engaged citizens with her example of HON. MIKE BOST California’s largest fresh vegetable companies, kindness, stewardship, and civic participation. OF ILLINOIS including Taylor Farms California Inc., Earth- In addition to being one of the longest-serving bound Farms, and Church Bros. LLC. In 1987, teachers in the State of Ohio, she volunteered IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES David and seven farmers formed Growers Ex- her time and talents to countless organizations Wednesday, October 25, 2017 press, one of the nation’s largest suppliers of including the Leadership Clinton Youth Col- fresh vegetables. laborative, Chester Friends Meeting, the Clin- Mr. BOST. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in rec- In addition to involvement in various busi- ton County Retired Teachers Association, the ognition of Donald Gillen’s honorable service ness operations, David values a strong em- Ohio Retired Teachers Association, the Mt. to our nation during World War II. phasis on community involvement and industry Pleasant Grange, Young Mother’s Club, Born April 14, 1927 in Lincoln, Nebraska, organizations. He has generously donated his Progress Club, and Turning the Corner. Donald graduated from Lincoln High School time in leadership roles with Western Growers, Like a pebble dropped in a pond, the ripples and joined the U.S. Army on July 26, 1945. Hartnell College Ag Steering, Grower Shipper created by Ms. Peterson’s life and work are Faithfully serving our country at Camp Association of Central California, California far-reaching. Her legacy will live on in the O’Donnell, Philippines from November 1946 Farm Bureau Federation, and Produce Mar- memories of those who knew her and loved until June 1947, Donald was a part of the 12th keting Association. her: her son, Jay, and daughter, Bunny, and Philippine Scout Division before becoming a Mr. Speaker, please join us in honoring and their spouses, Cindy and Ed; her grand- company commander in the 57th Infantry recognizing our friend for receiving Western children, Adam, Maggie, Heath, Amanda, and Regiment in Manila. Growers’ 2017 Award of Honor. David Gill has Curt; her greatgrandchildren, Owen, Ava, and Aubrie; and the rest of her extended family. Becoming a reservist and member of the provided innovative technology to the agricul- Clinton County is undeniably a better place National Guard, Donald returned home to Lin- tural community and he continues to be a because of Ms. Virgene Webb Peterson, and coln to graduate with a Bachelors Degree in leading voice for change in the agriculture in- I am honored to celebrate her life and legacy. Journalism from the University of Nebraska. dustry. God bless him always. He began a new career with the York News- f f Times in 1969 and eventually became the PERSONAL EXPLANATION A TRIBUTE TO JUDY AND GARY publisher of the newspaper, retiring in 1988. NISSEN Husband to his college sweetheart Marilyn Gillen, father to one, and grandfather to four, HON. BRENDA L. LAWRENCE OF MICHIGAN HON. DAVID YOUNG Donald is known as a family man—moving to OF IOWA Belleville, Illinois to be closer to his child and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES grandchildren. Today, he is a guest editorial Wednesday, October 25, 2017 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES staffer for the Belleville News-Democrat and Mrs. LAWRENCE. Mr. Speaker, unfortu- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 writes occasional editorials while supporting nately, on October 12, 2017, I was not able to Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise his wife’s singing in the St. George Episcopal cast my votes during the first vote series due today to recognize and congratulate Judy and Church choir. to a family emergency. Had I been present, I Gary Nissen of Afton, Iowa, on the very spe- I ask my colleagues to join me in honoring would have voted: YES on Democrat Motion cial occasion of their 50th wedding anniver- the service that Donald dutifully gave to our to Instruct Conferees on H.R. 2810—National sary. nation during World War II. We are forever Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year Judy and Gary’s lifelong commitment to grateful for his service. 2018; YES on Motion on Closing Portions of each other and their family truly embodies our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.027 E25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1431 Iowa values. As they reflect on their 50th anni- HONORING THE CATALOGUE FOR Wohlers of Council Bluffs, Iowa on his retire- versary, may their commitment grow even PHILANTHROPY: GREATER ment after 34 years of service with the Council stronger, as they continue to love, cherish, WASHINGTON Bluffs Fire Department. and honor one another for many years to Larry began his public service career in the come. HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON Council Bluffs Public Works Department be- OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA fore he joined the local fire department. He Mr. Speaker, I commend this great couple was hired in September of 1983 as a fire- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES on their 50th year together and I wish them fighter. Larry then began moving through the many more. I ask that my colleagues in the Wednesday, October 25, 2017 ranks as a captain, assistant chief, and was United States House of Representatives join Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ultimately promoted to Fire Marshall in 2008. me in congratulating Judy and Gary on this ask the House of Representatives to join me Council Bluffs Fire Chief Justin James said, momentous occasion and in wishing them in recognizing the Catalogue for Philanthropy: ‘‘It’s going to be a huge loss for the depart- both nothing but continued success. Greater Washington for its contributions to the ment. Larry has done a great job.’’ District of Columbia and the region on the oc- Mr. Speaker, Larry has made a difference in f casion of its 15th anniversary. his community by helping and serving others. The Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater It is with great pride that I recognize him CELEBRATING 200TH ANNIVER- Washington was founded in 2003 by Barbara today. I ask that my colleagues in the Unites SARY OF THE BIRTH OF Harman, who recognized the need to identity States House ofRepresentatives join me in BAHA’U’LLAH and highlight the best community-based non- congratulating him for his accomplishments profits in the region. and in wishing him nothing but continued suc- It has built the foundation of its success cess. HON. THEODORE E. DEUTCH based on a rigorous vetting process that is im- f plemented by local experts to ensure excel- HONORING THE 120TH ANNIVER- OF FLORIDA lence in the programming, finances and im- SARY OF ST. AUGUSTINE’S EPIS- pact of selected nonprofits. In addition, the or- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES COPAL CHURCH ganization raises the visibility and resources of Wednesday, October 25, 2017 these nonprofits, connects them with philan- thropic dollars that fuel their growth and works HON. ROBERT C. ‘‘BOBBY’’ SCOTT Mr. DEUTCH. Mr. Speaker, October 22nd to create a movement for social good in the OF VIRGINIA marked the 200th anniversary of the birth of D.C. region. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Baha’u’llah, the founder of the Baha’i Faith. The organization also has a tradition of ad- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 There are more than five million Baha’is vocating for and supporting nonprofits through around the world, including in my district in capacity-building programs designed to Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise South Florida. Over the weekend, they came strengthen them in the face of rapid change. today to honor the 120th anniversary of St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Newport together to celebrate the bicentenary of Since it began, the Catalogue for Philan- thropy: Greater Washington has demonstrated News, Virginia. Baha’u’llah’s birth by honoring his life and his St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church had hum- teachings. its impact by raising over $40 million for charities in its network, including 200 organizations ble beginnings. Originally known as Warwick Like many religious leaders, Baha’u’llah that operate in the District. Parish, and then as St. Paul’s Church, its mis- taught of the unity of mankind and the need Therefore, I ask the House of Representa- sion was started in 1897 with the intention of for us to work to build better communities and tives to join me in recognizing the leaders of providing a religious community for African- a better world. Baha’is believe that Baha’u’llah the Catalogue for Philanthropy: Greater Wash- American Episcopalians. The church was was God’s most recent messenger and that all ington and their commitment to create a started with neither a full-time pastor nor an official building, so the congregation ran their religions should live in harmony. This religious stronger, more resilient, more hopeful community that is a better place to live for everyone. early services out of the upper floor of the tolerance is an important message in a world Columba Opera House in Newport News. f where we too often see religious oppression. Reverend Joseph F. Mitchell became the first In fact, Baha’u’llah was born in Tehran but PERSONAL EXPLANATION vicar for St. Paul’s Mission in the fall of 1897 was imprisoned and exiled for his teachings. and spent the next six years of his ministry Today, Baha’is in Iran are still openly per- HON. BRENDA L. LAWRENCE trying to grow the parish and raise enough funds to afford to build a chapel for the con- secuted for their faith. Baha’i youth are often OF MICHIGAN gregation. deprived of access to higher education and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Under the leadership of Reverend Adolphus public jobs, Baha’i-owned business are fre- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 A. Birch, the church’s sixth rector, the name of quently attacked, and Baha’i cemeteries are Mrs. LAWRENCE. Mr. Speaker, on October the mission was officially changed to St. desecrated and disrespected. Baha’is are 11, 2017, I was unable to cast my votes dur- Augustine’s Episcopal Church in 1924. Rev- vilified in state sponsored media and their ing the second series due to a family emer- erend Birch’s successor, Reverend J.J. Posey, leaders are arbitrarily arrested and cruelly held gency. Had I been present, I would have oversaw the church’s move into their official in Iran’s notorious prisons. voted: YES on H.R. 452—To designate the fa- building on Marshall Avenue at Twenty-Sixth That is why I was proud to introduce H. cility of the United States Post Office located Street in Newport News. The congregation still Res. 274 with a bipartisan group of colleagues at 324 West Saint Louis Street in Pacific, Mis- meets at this location in a new church building that was constructed in 1962 under the leader- to condemn Iran’s human rights violations, souri, as the ‘‘Specialist Jeffrey L. White, Jr. ship of Reverend Lloyd M. Alexander. particularly its persecution of its Baha’i minor- Post Office’’ (Rep. LUETKEMEYER—Oversight and Government Reform); and YES on H.R. Today, St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church is ity, and urge sanctions against officials who 3243—FITARA Enhancement Act of 2017 home to a thriving parish life with a variety of have carried out these abuses. This resolution (Rep. CONNOLLY—Oversight and Government ministries and programs aimed at bettering the passed unanimously through the House For- Reform). congregation as well as the Newport News eign Affairs Subcommittee on the Middle East f community. The Feeding Program was estab- and North Africa, of which I am Ranking Mem- lished in 1988 and offers hot meals to hungry ber, and I look forward to moving it through A TRIBUTE TO LARRY WOHLERS adults and children every month. The Twelve the full Committee and to the House Floor. Steps Program meets five days every week to HON. DAVID YOUNG extend counseling, support, and mentorship The bicentenary, though, is about celebra- for men and women in the area who are strug- tion and shared optimism for the future. I’m OF IOWA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES gling with substance abuse. The church also pleased to join with my colleagues in con- sponsors a yearly ‘‘Back to School Drive’’ gratulating Baha’is around the world, and in Wednesday, October 25, 2017 which ensures that local children can begin Florida in particular, as they celebrate this fes- Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise the school year with a backpack and school tive and momentous occasion. today to recognize and congratulate Larry supplies that they might struggle to otherwise

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.032 E25OCPT1 E1432 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks October 25, 2017 afford. These programs provide an invaluable nalism and media through its charitable orga- SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS service to the church and its neighbors. nization, Washington Informer Charities. Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, St. Augustine’s growth in these past 120 Therefore, I ask the House of Representa- agreed to by the Senate of February 4, years has been facilitated through the hard tives to join me in recognizing the Washington 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- work and tireless efforts of seventeen devoted Informer, its founders and its current publisher tem for a computerized schedule of all rectors—Rev. Joseph F. Mitchell, Rev. Henry for their 53 years of service to the District of meetings and hearings of Senate com- J. Geiger, Rev. E.H. Hamilton, Rev. Byron E. Columbia metropolitan area and for continu- mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- Floyd, Rev. J.T. McDuffie, Rev. Adolphus A. ously upholding the Washington Informer’s tees, and committees of conference. Birch, Rev. J.J. Posey, Rev. Julian F. Dozier, mission, to educate, empower and inform This title requires all such committees Rev. Charles S. Sedgwick, Rev. Charles H. through the production of quality news content to notify the Office of the Senate Daily Dukes, Rev. Theodore R. Gibson, Rev. that focuses on African Americans and par- Digest—designated by the Rules Com- George E. Harper, Rev. Lloyd M. Alexander, ticularly their positive contributions to the committee—of the time, place and purpose Rev. Robert C.S. Powell, Rev. R. Scott munities in which they live and work. of the meetings, when scheduled and Copeland, Rev. Ralph E. Haines, III, and Rev. f any cancellations or changes in the meetings as they occur. Terry D. Edwards. A TRIBUTE TO LAUREN As an additional procedure along Mr. Speaker, today the congregation of St. BUFFINGTON Augustine’s Episcopal Church can feel af- with the computerization of this infor- firmed and celebratory in light of this historic mation, the Office of the Senate Daily milestone. As a longtime member of St. HON. DAVID YOUNG Digest will prepare this information for Augustine’s, I wish to extend my warmest con- OF IOWA printing in the Extensions of Remarks gratulations to Reverend Terry Davis Edwards IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD and the entire St. Augustine’s community. Wednesday, October 25, 2017 on Monday and Wednesday of each With the church’s distinguished history in Mr. YOUNG of Iowa. Mr. Speaker, I rise week. Meetings scheduled for Thursday, Oc- mind, the congregation may truly take this oc- today to recognize and congratulate Lauren tober 26, 2017 may be found in the Daily casion to feel proud about their past, joyful Buffington on being awarded the Golden Digest of today’s RECORD. about their present, and hopeful for their fu- Apple Award, which recognizes central Iowa ture. I wish St. Augustine’s Episcopal Church teachers who make a difference in the lives of MEETINGS SCHEDULED 120 more years of growth, fellowship, and their students. service. Lauren teaches middle school science and OCTOBER 30 f history at Southeast Polk High School. In only 5 p.m. her fourth year of teaching, she has learned Committee on Foreign Relations HONORING THE WASHINGTON how to engage her students in their studies To hold hearings to examine the Author- INFORMER through hands on activities to discover and izations for the Use of Military Force, learn on their own. She also uses life lessons focusing on Administration perspectives. HON. ELEANOR HOLMES NORTON to help prepare them for the difficulties and SD–419 OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA hardships it can bring. Lauren told WHO TV, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES who presented the award to her after she was OCTOBER 31 nominated by her students, that she loves Wednesday, October 25, 2017 10 a.m. teaching middle school because ‘‘this is the Committee on Armed Services Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to time they are deciding who they are and who To receive a closed briefing on recent ask the House of Representatives to join me they want to become.’’ She also finds that she Navy collisions at sea. in recognizing the Washington Informer News- learns more about the world everyday through SVC–217 paper Co. Inc. for its 53 years of service in the her students. Committee on Commerce, Science, and District of Columbia metropolitan area. Mr. Speaker, I congratulate Lauren on this Transportation The Washington Informer Newspaper Co. To hold hearings to examine the nomina- outstanding honor, and look forward to many tions of Leon A. Westmoreland, of Inc. (Washington Informer), a multimedia orga- more years of her molding students in Iowa’s Georgia, to be a Director of the Am- nization, was founded on October 16, 1964, Third Congressional District into tomorrow’s trak Board of Directors, Raymond Mar- by Dr. Calvin Rolark, who was assisted by his leaders. I ask that my colleagues in the United tinez, of New Jersey, to be Adminis- wife, the late Attorney Wilhelmina Rolark, who States House of Representatives join me in trator of the Federal Motor Carrier served on the Council of the District of Colum- congratulating her on receiving the Golden Safety Administration, Diana bia for 16 years representing Ward 8 resi- Apple award and in wishing her nothing but Furchtgott-Roth, of Maryland, to be an dents. Both recognized the need to identify continued success. Assistant Secretary of Transportation, and Bruce Landsberg, of South Caro- and highlight the achievements and contribu- f lina, to be a Member of the National tions of African Americans in the District of PERSONAL EXPLANATION Transportation Safety Board. Columbia metropolitan area. SR–253 The Washington Informer’s award-winning Committee on Energy and Natural Re- newspaper has a tradition of tackling key HON. HAKEEM S. JEFFRIES sources issues that impact the African American com- OF NEW YORK To hold hearings to examine new effi- munity in the District, including financial lit- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ciency opportunities provided by ad- Wednesday, October 25, 2017 vanced building management and con- eracy, homeownership and sustainability. trol systems. Since 1994, the paper has been published by Mr. JEFFRIES. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call SD–366 Denise Rolark Barnes, Dr. Calvin Rolark’s No. 585 on agreeing to the Amendment, John- Committee on Homeland Security and daughter. Today, the Washington Informer has son of Georgia Amendment No. 3, offered to Governmental Affairs an average of 50,000 weekly readers and H.R. 469, I am not recorded. Had I been To hold an oversight hearing to examine more than 7,500 weekly email newsletter sub- the 2017 hurricane season, focusing on present, I would have voted ‘‘Aye.’’ the Federal response. scribers. Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 586 on agree- The Washington Informer is a member of SD–342 ing to the Amendment, McEachin of Virginia 2:30 p.m. several associations as well, including the Na- Amendment No. 4, offered to H.R. 469, I am Committee on Commerce, Science, and tional Newspaper Publishers Association, not recorded. Had I been present, I would Transportation where Denise Rolark Barnes serves as chair. have voted ‘‘Aye.’’ Subcommittee on Oceans, Atmosphere, In addition, the organization sponsors an an- Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 587 on agree- Fisheries, and Coast Guard nual spelling bee for District children in grades ing to the Amendment, Cartwright of Pennsyl- To hold hearings to examine exploring three through eight, and an African American vania Amendment No. 6, offered to H.R. 469, Native American subsistence rights Heritage Tour and an annual Dr. Martin Luther and international treaties. I am not recorded. Had I been present, I SR–253 King, Jr. Holiday Peace Walk and Parade. The would have voted ‘‘Aye.’’ Committee on Health, Education, Labor, Washington Informer also provides internship Mr. Speaker, on Roll Call No. 588 on pas- and Pensions opportunities for high school and college stu- sage of H.R. 469, I am not recorded. Had I To hold hearings to examine implemen- dents interested in pursuing careers in jour- been present, I would have voted ‘‘Nay.’’ tation of the 21st Century Cures Act,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A25OC8.037 E25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1433 focusing on achieving the promise of Committee on Commerce, Science, and Judge for the Eighth Circuit, Terry A. health information technology. Transportation Doughty, to be United States District SD–430 To hold hearings to examine the nomina- Judge for the Western District of Lou- Committee on Homeland Security and tions of James Bridenstine, of Okla- isiana, Terry Fitzgerald Moorer, to be Governmental Affairs homa, to be Administrator of the Na- United States District Judge for the To hold hearings to examine the 2020 tional Aeronautics and Space Adminis- Southern District of Alabama, and Census, focusing on cost overruns, in- tration, Dana Baiocco, of Ohio, to be a Mark Saalfield Norris, Sr., to be United formation security, and accuracy. Commissioner of the Consumer Prod- States District Judge for the Western SD–342 uct Safety Commission, and Nazakhtar District of Tennessee. Committee on the Judiciary Nikakhtar, of Maryland, and Neil Ja- SD–226 Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism cobs, of North Carolina, both to be an 2:30 p.m. To hold hearings to examine extremist Assistant Secretary of Commerce. Committee on Indian Affairs content and Russian disinformation SR–253 To hold an oversight hearing to examine online, focusing on working with tech Committee on Foreign Relations building tribal economies, focusing on to find solutions. To hold hearings to examine the nomina- modernizing tax policies that work for SD–226 tions of Irwin Steven Goldstein, of New Indian country. York, to be Under Secretary for Public SD–628 NOVEMBER 1 Diplomacy, Rebecca Eliza Gonzales, of Texas, to be Ambassador to the King- 10 a.m. NOVEMBER 8 Committee on Banking, Housing, and dom of Lesotho, Lisa A. Johnson, of Urban Affairs Washington, to be Ambassador to the 2:30 p.m. To hold hearings to examine the nomina- Republic of Namibia, James Randolph Committee on Indian Affairs tions of Scott Garrett, of New Jersey, Evans, of Georgia, to be Ambassador to To hold hearings to examine S. 1400, to to be President, Kimberly A. Reed, of Luxembourg, and Sean P. Lawler, of amend title 18, United States Code, to West Virginia, to be First Vice Presi- Maryland, to be Chief of Protocol, and enhance protections of Native Amer- dent, Mark L. Greenblatt, of Maryland, to have the rank of Ambassador during ican tangible cultural heritage, S. 465, to be Inspector General, and Spencer his tenure of service, all of the Depart- to provide for an independent outside Bachus III, of Alabama, Judith ment of State. audit of the Indian Health Service, and Delzoppo Pryor, of Ohio, and Claudia SD–419 H.R. 597, to take lands in Sonoma Slacik, of New York, each to be a Mem- Committee on the Judiciary County, California, into trust as part of ber of the Board of Directors, all of the To hold hearings to examine the nomina- the reservation of the Lytton Export-Import Bank. tions of Leonard Steven Grasz, of Ne- Rancheria of California. SD–538 braska, to be United States Circuit SD–628

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:58 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\M25OC8.000 E25OCPT1 Wednesday, October 25, 2017 Daily Digest Senate Day of the Deployed: Senate agreed to S. Res. Chamber Action 307, designating October 26, 2017, as ‘‘Day of the Routine Proceedings, pages S6777–S6824 Deployed’’. Page S6820 Measures Introduced: Ten bills and five resolutions Appointments: were introduced, as follows: S. 2003–2012, and S. United States Holocaust Memorial Council: The Res. 303–307. Pages S6816–17 Chair, on Tuesday, October 24, 2017, on behalf of Measures Reported: the President pro tempore, and upon the rec- S. 763, to improve surface and maritime transpor- ommendation of the Majority Leader, pursuant to tation security, with an amendment in the nature of Public Law 96–388, as amended by Public Law a substitute. (S. Rept. No. 115–178) 97–84, and Public Law 106–292, reappointed and S. 2010, to extend the FISA Amendments Act of appointed the following Senators to the United 2008 for 8 years. Page S6816 States Holocaust Memorial Council: Senators Hatch Measures Passed: (reappointment), Rubio, and Scott. Page S6820 Enrollment Correction: Senate agreed to H. Con. Palk Nomination—Agreement: Senate resumed Res. 85, providing for a correction in the enrollment consideration of the nomination of Scott L. Palk, to of H.R. 2266. Page S6871 be United States District Judge for the Western Dis- Veterans’ Compensation Cost-of-Living Adjust- trict of Oklahoma. Pages S6777–S6812 ment Act: Committee on Veterans’ Affairs was dis- During consideration of this nomination today, charged from further consideration of H.R. 1329, to Senate also took the following action: increase, effective as of December 1, 2017, the rates By 79 yeas to 18 nays (Vote No. 250), Senate of compensation for veterans with service-connected agreed to the motion to close further debate on the disabilities and the rates of dependency and indem- nomination. Pages S6781–82 nity compensation for the survivors of certain dis- A unanimous-consent agreement was reached pro- abled veterans, and the bill was then passed. viding for further consideration of the nomination, Page S6820 post-cloture, at approximately 10 a.m. on Thursday, National Health Information Technology Week: October 26, 2017; that at 12 noon, all post-cloture Committee on the Judiciary was discharged from time on the nomination be considered expired, and further consideration of S. Res. 280, designating the that following disposition of the Palk nomination, week of October 2 through October 6, 2017, as Senate vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the ‘‘National Health Information Technology Week’’ to nomination of Trevor N. McFadden, of Virginia, to recognize the value of health information technology be United States District Judge for the District of in transforming and improving the healthcare system Columbia. Page S6821 for all people in the United States, and the resolu- Messages from the House: Page S6813 tion was then agreed to. Page S6820 Measures Referred: Pages S6813–14 Filipino American History Month: Senate agreed to S. Res. 305, recognizing the month of October Executive Communications: Page S6814 2017 as Filipino American History Month and cele- Petitions and Memorials: Pages S6814–16 brating the history and culture of Filipino Americans Executive Reports of Committees: Page S6816 and their immense contributions to the United Additional Cosponsors: Page S6817 States. Page S6820 National Principals Month: Senate agreed to S. Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: Res. 306, recognizing the month of October 2017 as Pages S6817–18 ‘‘National Principals Month’’. Page S6820 Additional Statements: Page S6813 D1123

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:02 Jan 27, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\RECORD17\OCTOBER\D25OC7.REC D25OC7 D1124 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST October 25, 2017 Authorities for Committees to Meet: Lake City, Utah; and Dylan Kruse, Sustainable Pages S6819–20 Northwest, Portland, Oregon. Privileges of the Floor: Page S6820 NIGERIA SECURITY Record Votes: One record vote was taken today. Committee on Foreign Relations: Subcommittee on Afri- (Total—250) Pages S6781–82 ca and Global Health Policy received a closed brief- Adjournment: Senate convened at 9:30 a.m. and ing on Nigeria security from Donald Y. Yamamoto, adjourned at 7:10 p.m., until 10 a.m. on Thursday, Acting Assistant Secretary, Bureau of African Affairs, October 26, 2017. (For Senate’s program, see the re- and Mike Miller, Office Director, Regional Security marks of the Majority Leader in today’s Record on and Arms Transfers, both of the Department of page S6821.) State. BUSINESS MEETING Committee Meetings Committee on Indian Affairs: Committee ordered favor- (Committees not listed did not meet) ably reported S. 1223, to repeal the Klamath Tribe Judgment Fund Act, with an amendment. MAJOR THREATS FACING NAVAL FORCES INDIAN AFFAIRS LEGISLATION Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Committee on Indian Affairs: Committee concluded a SeaPower received a closed briefing on the major hearing to examine S. 1870, to amend the Victims threats facing naval forces and the Navy’s current of Crime Act of 1984 to secure urgent resources and planned capabilities to meet those threats from vital to Indian victims of crime, S. 1953, to amend Admiral William F. Moran, USN, Vice Chief of the Tribal Law and Order Act of 2010 and the In- Naval Operations, and Jason A. Reynolds, Director, dian Law Enforcement Reform Act to provide for ad- Special Programs, Office of the Chief of Naval Oper- vancements in public safety services to Indian com- ations, both of the Department of Defense. munities, and S. 1942, to direct the Attorney Gen- COMMERCIAL SATELLITE INDUSTRY eral to review, revise, and develop law enforcement Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: and justice protocols appropriate to address missing Committee concluded a hearing to examine the com- and murdered Indians, after receiving testimony mercial satellite industry, after receiving testimony from R. Trent Shores, United States Attorney for the from Patricia Cooper, SpaceX, Washington, D.C.; Northern District of Oklahoma, Department of Jus- Mark Dankberg, ViaSat, Inc., Carlsbad, California; tice; Bryan Rice, Director, Bureau of Indian Affairs, Stephen Spengler, Intelsat, McLean, Virginia; and Department of the Interior; David Flute, Sisseton- Greg Wyler, OneWeb, Arlington, Virginia. Wahpeton Sioux Tribe, Agency Village, South Da- kota; Joel Boyd, Confederated Tribes of the Colville BUSINESS MEETING Reservation, Nespelem, Washington; and Carmen Committee on Environment and Public Works: Com- O’Leary, Native Women’s Society of the Great mittee ordered favorably reported the nominations of Plains, Eagle Butte, South Dakota. Michael Dourson, of Ohio, to be Assistant Adminis- trator for Toxic Substances, and William L. BUSINESS MEETING Wehrum, of Delaware, Matthew Z. Leopold, of Flor- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Committee ordered fa- ida, and David Ross, of Wisconsin, each to be an vorably reported the nominations of Melissa Sue Assistant Administrator, all of the Environmental Glynn, of the District of Columbia, to be an Assist- Protection Agency, Paul Trombino III, of Wisconsin, ant Secretary (Enterprise Integration), Randy Reeves, to be Administrator of the Federal Highway Admin- of Mississippi, to be Under Secretary for Memorial istration, Department of Transportation, and Jeffery Affairs, and Cheryl L. Mason, of Virginia, to be Martin Baran, of Virginia, to be a Member of the Chairman of the Board of Veterans’ Appeals, all of Nuclear Regulatory Commission. the Department of Veterans Affairs. WILDFIRE PREVENTION AND MITIGATION WORKING AND AGING WITH ACT DISABILITIES Committee on Environment and Public Works: Com- Special Committee on Aging: Committee concluded a mittee concluded a hearing to examine an original hearing to examine working and aging with disabil- bill entitled, ‘‘Wildfire Prevention and Mitigation ities from school to retirement, after receiving testi- Act of 2017’’, after receiving testimony from Bill mony from David Michael Mank, Indiana Univer- Crasper, Wyoming State Forestry Division, Chey- sity, Bloomington, on behalf of the Association of enne; Miles Moretti, Mule Deer Foundation, Salt University Centers on Disabilities; Tamar Heller,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D25OC7.REC D25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1125 University of Illinois Institute on Disability and Judith Creed Horizons for Achieving Independence, Human Development, Chicago; Eric Meyer, King of Prussia, Pennsylvania. Spurwink Services, Portland, Maine; and Jeff Smith, h House of Representatives Establishing the congressional budget for the Chamber Action United States Government for fiscal year 2018 Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 23 pub- and setting forth the appropriate budgetary lev- lic bills, H.R. 4115–4137; and 5 resolutions, H. els for fiscal years 2019 through 2027—Rule for Con. Res. 86–87; and H. Res. 586–588 were intro- consideration: The House agreed to H. Res. 580, duced. Pages H8224–25 providing for consideration of the Senate amendment to the concurrent resolution (H. Con. Res. 71) estab- Additional Cosponsors: Pages H8226–27 lishing the congressional budget for the United Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: States Government for fiscal year 2018 and setting H.R. 2936, to expedite under the National Envi- forth the appropriate budgetary levels for fiscal years ronmental Policy Act of 1969 and improve forest 2019 through 2027, by a recorded vote of 233 ayes management activities on National Forest System to 188 noes, Roll No. 583, after the previous ques- lands, on public lands under the jurisdiction of the tion was ordered by a yea-and-nay vote of 229 yeas Bureau of Land Management, and on Tribal lands to to 188 nays, Roll No. 582. Pages H8157–67 return resilience to overgrown, fire-prone forested Authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall in the lands, and for other purposes, with an amendment Capitol Visitor Center for the unveiling of the (H. Rept. 115–370, Part 1); and American Prisoners of War/Missing in Action H.R. 2936, to expedite under the National Envi- (POW/MIA) Chair of Honor: The House agreed to ronmental Policy Act of 1969 and improve forest take from the Speaker’s table and agree to S. Con. management activities on National Forest System Res. 26, authorizing the use of Emancipation Hall lands, on public lands under the jurisdiction of the in the Capitol Visitor Center for the unveiling of the Bureau of Land Management, and on Tribal lands to American Prisoners of War/Missing in Action return resilience to overgrown, fire-prone forested (POW/MIA) Chair of Honor. Page H8168 lands, and for other purposes, with an amendment Meeting Hour: Agreed by unanimous consent that (H. Rept. 115–370, Part 2); and when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet H.R. 2823, to amend the Employee Retirement at 9 a.m. tomorrow, October 26. Page H8168 Income Security Act of 1974 and the Internal Rev- Recess: The House recessed at 2:22 p.m. and recon- enue Code of 1986 to ensure that retirement inves- vened at 2:31 p.m. Page H8171 tors receive advice in their best interests, and for other purposes, with an amendment (H. Rept. Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules 115–371, Part 1). Page H8224 and pass the following measures: Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein he Sanctioning Hizballah’s Illicit Use of Civilians appointed Representative Perry to act as Speaker pro as Defenseless Shields Act: H.R. 3342, amended, to impose sanctions on foreign persons that are respon- tempore for today. Page H8147 sible for gross violations of internationally recognized Recess: The House recessed at 11:01 a.m. and re- human rights by reason of the use by Hizballah of convened at 12 noon. Page H8153 civilians as human shields; Pages H8178–83 Guest Chaplain: The prayer was offered by the Hizballah International Financing Prevention Guest Chaplain, Rev. Dr. Christopher D. Girata, St. Amendments Act of 2017: H.R. 3329, amended, to Michael & All Angels Episcopal Church, Dallas, TX. amend the Hizballah International Financing Preven- Page H8153 tion Act of 2015 to impose additional sanctions with Journal: The House agreed to the Speaker’s approval respect to Hizballah; and Pages H8183–91 of the Journal by a yea-and-nay vote of 230 yeas to Urging the European Union to designate 180 nays with two answering ‘‘present’’, Roll No. Hizballah in its entirety as a terrorist organiza- 584. Pages H8153, H8167–68 tion and increase pressure on it and its members:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D25OC7.REC D25OCPT1 D1126 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST October 25, 2017 H. Res. 359, amended, urging the European Union Iran Ballistic Missiles and International Sanc- to designate Hizballah in its entirety as a terrorist tions Enforcement Act: H.R. 1698, amended, to ex- organization and increase pressure on it and its pand sanctions against Iran with respect to the bal- members. Pages H8191–94 listic missile program of Iran. Pages H8168–78 Sunshine for Regulations and Regulatory De- Senate Referrals: S. 226 was held at the desk. S. crees and Settlements Act of 2017: The House 1766 was referred to the Committee on the Judici- passed H.R. 469, to impose certain limitations on ary. Page H8222 consent decrees and settlement agreements by agencies that require the agencies to take regulatory ac- Senate Messages: Messages received from the Senate tion in accordance with the terms thereof, by a re- by the Clerk and subsequently presented to the corded vote of 234 ayes to 187 noes, Roll No. 588. House today appear on page H8154. Pages H8194–H8204, H8204–09 Quorum Calls—Votes: Two yea-and-nay votes and Pursuant to the Rule, it shall be in order to con- five recorded votes developed during the proceedings sider as an original bill for the purpose of amend- of today and appear on pages H8166, H8167, ment under the five-minute rule an amendment in H8168–69, H8206–07, H8207, H8208, and the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of H8208–09. There were no quorum calls. Rules Committee Print 115–34. Page H8199 Adjournment: The House met at 10 a.m. and ad- Agreed to: journed at 8:33 p.m. Collins (GA) amendment (No. 1 printed in part A of H. Rept. 115–363) that clarifies the application of 5 U.S.C. 552a (The Privacy Act) to the bill. Committee Meetings Page H8202 Rejected: DOWN SYNDROME: UPDATE ON THE Conyers amendment (No. 2 printed in part A of STATE OF THE SCIENCE AND POTENTIAL H. Rept. 115–363) that calls for exception for con- FOR DISCOVERIES ACROSS OTHER MAJOR sent decrees or settlement agreements relating to the DISEASES enforcement of civil rights laws. Pages H8202–03 Johnson (GA) amendment (No. 3 printed in part Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Labor, A of H. Rept. 115–363) that sought to exempt any Health and Human Services, Education, and Related consent decree or covered settlement agreement per- Agencies held an oversight hearing entitled ‘‘Down taining to a deadline established by Congress to sig- Syndrome: Update on the State of the Science and nificantly improve access to high-speed broadband in Potential for Discoveries Across Other Major Dis- under-served markets, such as low-income and rural eases’’. Testimony was heard from Chairman Ses- communities; and to facilitate economic development sions, and Representatives McMorris Rodgers and in locations without sufficient access to such service Bustos; and public witnesses. (by a recorded vote of 185 ayes to 231 noes, Roll No. 585); Pages H8203–04, H8206–07 FEDERAL EFFORTS TO COMBAT THE McEachin amendment (No. 4 printed in part A of OPIOID CRISIS: A STATUS UPDATE ON H. Rept. 115–363) that sought to exempt any con- CARA AND OTHER INITIATIVES sent decree or settlement agreement pertaining to Committee on Energy and Commerce: Full Committee the improvement or maintenance of air or water quality (by a recorded vote of 187 ayes to 226 noes, held a hearing entitled ‘‘Federal Efforts to Combat the Opioid Crisis: A Status Update on CARA and Roll No. 586); and Pages H8204–05, H8207 Cartwright amendment (No. 6 printed in part A Other Initiatives’’. Testimony was heard from Neil of H. Rept. 115–363) that sought to create addi- Doherty, Deputy Assistant Administrator, Office of tional exception for consent decrees or settlement Diversion Control, Drug Enforcement Administra- agreements entered into pursuant to Meese Policy tion; Scott Gottlieb, Commissioner, Food and Drug (by a recorded vote of 186 ayes to 232 noes, Roll Administration; Elinore McCance-Katz, Assistant No. 587). Pages H8205–08 Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use, Sub- H. Res. 577, the rule providing for consideration stance Abuse and Mental Health Services Adminis- of the bills (H.R. 469) and (H.R. 732) was agreed tration; Anne Schuchat, Principal Deputy Director, to yesterday, October 24th. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention; and Nora Volkow, Director, National Institute on Drug Suspension—Proceedings Postponed: The House debated the following measure under suspension of Abuse, National Institutes of Health. the rules. Further proceedings were postponed.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D25OC7.REC D25OCPT1 October 25, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1127 OVERSIGHT OF THE FEDERAL ery’’. Testimony was heard from Scott Bedke, Speak- COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION er, House of Representatives, Idaho; Darin Bird, Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Deputy Director, Department of Natural Resources, Communications and Technology held a hearing en- Utah; John Tubbs, Director, Department of Natural titled ‘‘Oversight of the Federal Communications Resources and Conservation, Montana; and J.J. Commission’’. Testimony was heard from the fol- Goicoechea, Chairman, Board of Commissioners, Eu- lowing Federal Communications Commission offi- reka County, Nevada. cials: Brendan Carr, Commissioner; Mignon Clyburn, LEGISLATIVE MEASURE Commissioner; Michael O’Rielly, Commissioner; Ajit Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on In- Pai, Chairman; and Jessica Rosenworcel, Commis- dian, Insular and Alaska Native Affairs held a hear- sioner. ing on H.R. 215, the ‘‘American Indian Empower- SUSTAINABLE HOUSING FINANCE: ment Act of 2017’’. Testimony was heard from John PRIVATE SECTOR PERSPECTIVES ON Tahsuda III, Acting Assistant Secretary—Indian Af- HOUSING FINANCE REFORM fairs, Department of the Interior; and public wit- Committee on Financial Services: Subcommittee on nesses. Housing and Insurance held a hearing entitled ‘‘Sus- ONGOING MANAGEMENT CHALLENGES AT tainable Housing Finance: Private Sector Perspectives IRS on Housing Finance Reform’’. Testimony was heard Committee on Oversight and Government Reform: Sub- from public witnesses. committee on Government Operations; and Sub- EXAMINING THE EQUIFAX DATA BREACH committee on Health Care, Benefits, and Adminis- Committee on Financial Services: Full Committee held trative Rules held a joint hearing entitled ‘‘Ongoing a hearing entitled ‘‘Examining the Equifax Data Management Challenges at IRS’’. Testimony was Breach’’. Testimony was heard from Sara Cable, Di- heard from J. Russell George, Treasury Inspector rector, Data Privacy and Security, Assistant Attorney General for Tax Administration; Gregory Kutz, Dep- General, Consumer Protection Division, Office of uty Inspector General for Inspections and Evalua- Attorney General, Massachusetts; and public wit- tions, Treasury Inspector General for Tax Adminis- nesses. tration; Jeffrey Tribiano, Deputy Commissioner for Operations Support, Internal Revenue Service; and THE PRESIDENT’S IRAN DECISION: NEXT Gina Garza, Chief Information Officer, Internal Rev- STEPS enue Service. Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on the BOLSTERING THE GOVERNMENT’S Middle East and North Africa held a hearing enti- CYBERSECURITY: ASSESSING THE RISK OF tled ‘‘The President’s Iran Decision: Next Steps’’. KASPERSKY LAB PRODUCTS TO THE Testimony was heard from public witnesses. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT STATE VOTER REGISTRATION LIST Committee on Science, Space, and Technology: Sub- MAINTENANCE committee on Oversight held a hearing entitled Committee on House Administration: Full Committee ‘‘Bolstering the Government’s Cybersecurity: Assess- held a hearing entitled ‘‘State Voter Registration List ing the Risk of Kaspersky Lab Products to the Fed- Maintenance’’. Testimony was heard from Connie eral Government’’. Testimony was heard from Donna Lawson, Secretary of State, Indiana; and a public wit- Dodson, Associate Director and Chief Cybersecurity ness. Advisor, Information Technology Laboratory, Na- tional Institute of Standards and Technology; David MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES Shive, Chief Information Officer, General Services Committee on the Judiciary: Full Committee concluded Administration; and public witnesses. a markup on H.R. 4092, the ‘‘AG Act’’; and H.R. GAO AUDIT REVEALS HALF-MEASURES 3711, the ‘‘Legal Workforce Act’’. H.R. 4092 and TAKEN BY SMALL BUSINESS ADVOCATES H.R. 3711 were ordered reported, as amended. Committee on Small Business: Subcommittee on Con- EMPOWERING STATE BASED tracting and Workforce held a hearing entitled MANAGEMENT SOLUTIONS FOR GREATER ‘‘GAO Audit Reveals Half-Measures Taken by Small SAGE GROUSE RECOVERY Business Advocates’’. Testimony was heard from Committee on Natural Resources: Full Committee held William B. Shear, Director, Financial Markets and a hearing entitled ‘‘Empowering State Based Man- Community Investment, Government Accountability agement Solutions for Greater Sage Grouse Recov- Office; Robb N. Wong, Associate Administrator,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:24 Oct 26, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D25OC7.REC D25OCPT1 D1128 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST October 25, 2017 Office of Government Contracting and Business De- NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZATION velopment, Small Business Administration; Kevin ACT Boshears, Director, Office of Small and Disadvan- Conferees met in closed session to resolve the dif- taged Business Utilization, Department of Homeland ferences between the Senate and House passed Security. versions of H.R. 2810, to authorize appropriations for fiscal year 2018 for military activities of the De- EXAMINING HOW VBA CAN EFFECTIVELY partment of Defense, for military construction, and PREVENT AND MANAGE OVERPAYMENTS for defense activities of the Department of Energy, Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Dis- to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fis- ability Assistance and Memorial Affairs held a hear- cal year, but did not complete action thereon, and ing entitled ‘‘Examining How VBA Can Effectively recessed subject to the call. Prevent and Manage Overpayments’’. Testimony was f heard from Willie C. Clark, Sr., Deputy Under Sec- retary for Field Operations, Veterans Benefits Ad- COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR THURSDAY, ministration, Department of Veterans Affairs; and OCTOBER 26, 2017 public witnesses. (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Subcommittee on Eco- Committee on Armed Services: to receive a closed briefing nomic Opportunity held a markup on H.R. 815, to on Niger, 10 a.m., SVC–217. amend title 38, United States Code, to adjust certain Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: to limits on the guaranteed amount of a home loan hold hearings to examine the nominations of Brian D. Montgomery, of Texas, Robert Hunter Kurtz, of Virginia, under the home loan program of the Department of and Suzanne Israel Tufts, of New York, each to be an As- Veterans Affairs; H.R. 3018, the ‘‘Veterans’ Entry to sistant Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, 10 Apprenticeship Act’’; H.R. 3634, the ‘‘Securing a.m., SD–538. Electronic Records for Veterans’ Ease Act of 2017’’; Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: to hold hear- H.R. 3949, the ‘‘VALOR Act’’; H.R. 3965, the ings to examine advanced cyber technologies that could ‘‘Veterans Armed for Success Act’’; and legislation to be used to help protect electric grids and other energy in- amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain frastructure from cyberattacks, 9:45 a.m., SD–366. improvements to the use of educational assistance Committee on Foreign Relations: business meeting to con- provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs for sider S. Res. 279, reaffirming the commitment of the flight training programs. H.R. 3949 was forwarded United States to promote democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in Cambodia, and the nominations of to the full Committee, as amended. Legislation to Michele Jeanne Sison, of Maryland, to be Ambassador to amend title 38, United States Code, to make certain the Republic of Haiti, Peter Hoekstra, of Michigan, to be improvements to the use of educational assistance Ambassador to the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Ken- provided by the Department of Veterans Affairs for neth Ian Juster, of New York, to be Ambassador to the flight training programs, H.R. 815, H.R. 3018, Republic of India, Larry Edward Andre, Jr., of Texas, to H.R. 3634, and H.R. 3965 were forwarded to the be Ambassador to the Republic of Djibouti, Daniel J. full Committee, without amendment. Kritenbrink, of Virginia, to be Ambassador to the Social- ist Republic of Vietnam, Kathleen M. Fitzpatrick, of the MISCELLANEOUS TARIFF BILL: PROVIDING District of Columbia, to be Ambassador to the Demo- TARIFF RELIEF TO U.S. MANUFACTURERS cratic Republic of Timor-Leste, Richard Duke Buchan III, THROUGH THE NEW MTB PROCESS of Florida, to be Ambassador to the Kingdom of Spain, and to serve concurrently and without additional com- Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on pensation as Ambassador to Andorra, Richard Grenell, of Trade held a hearing entitled ‘‘Miscellaneous Tariff California, to be Ambassador to the Federal Republic of Bill: Providing Tariff Relief to U.S. Manufacturers Germany, Jamie McCourt, of California, to be Ambas- Through the New MTB Process’’. Testimony was sador to the French Republic, and to serve concurrently heard from public witnesses. and without additional compensation as Ambassador to the Principality of Monaco, Edward T. McMullen, Jr., of South Carolina, to be Ambassador to the Swiss Confed- Joint Meetings eration, and to serve concurrently and without additional ECONOMIC OUTLOOK compensation as Ambassador to the Principality of Liech- tenstein, Peter Henry Barlerin, of Colorado, to be Ambas- Joint Economic Committee: Committee concluded a sador to the Republic of Cameroon, Michael James hearing to examine the economic outlook, after re- Dodman, of New York, to be Ambassador to the Islamic ceiving testimony from Kevin Hassett, Chairman, Republic of Mauritania, Nina Maria Fite, of Pennsylvania, Council of Economic Advisers. to be Ambassador to the Republic of Angola, Daniel L.

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Foote, of New York, to be Ambassador to the Republic trict of Texas, Michael Joseph Juneau, to be United States of Zambia, David Dale Reimer, of Ohio, to be Ambas- District Judge for the Western District of Louisiana, A. sador to the Republic of Mauritius, and to serve concur- Marvin Quattlebaum, Jr., to be United States District rently and without additional compensation as Ambas- Judge for the District of South Carolina, Karen Gren sador to the Republic of Seychelles, Eric P. Whitaker, of Scholer, to be United States District Judge for the North- Illinois, to be Ambassador to the Republic of Niger, W. ern District of Texas, Tilman Eugene Self III, to be Robert Kohorst, of California, to be Ambassador to the United States District Judge for the Middle District of Republic of Croatia, Carla Sands, of California, to be Am- Georgia, and John F. Bash, to be United States Attorney bassador to the Kingdom of Denmark, Thomas L. Carter, for the Western District of Texas, Erin Angela Nealy of South Carolina, for the rank of Ambassador during his Cox, to be United States Attorney for the Northern Dis- tenure of service as Representative of the United States trict of Texas, and R. Andrew Murray, to be United of America on the Council of the International Civil States Attorney for the Western District of North Caro- Aviation Organization, Michael T. Evanoff, of Arkansas, lina, all of the Department of Justice, 10 a.m., SD–226. to be an Assistant Secretary (Diplomatic Security), Committee on Small Business and Entrepreneurship: to hold Manisha Singh, of Florida, to be an Assistant Secretary hearings to examine strengthening the entrepreneurial (Economic and Business Affairs), Samuel Dale Brown- ecosystem for women, 11 a.m., SR–428A. back, of Kansas, to be Ambassador at Large for Inter- Select Committee on Intelligence: to hold closed hearings to national Religious Freedom, and a routine list in the For- examine certain intelligence matters, 2 p.m., SH–219. eign Service, all of the Department of State, 9:30 a.m., S–116, Capitol. House Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions: to Committee on Energy and Commerce, Full Committee, hold hearings to examine free speech on college campuses, markup on H.R. 1733, to direct the Secretary of Energy 10 a.m., SD–430. to review and update a report on the energy and environ- Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs: mental benefits of the re-refining of used lubricating oil; Subcommittee on Regulatory Affairs and Federal Manage- H.R. 2872, the ‘‘Promoting Hydropower Development at ment, to hold hearings to examine improving oversight Existing Nonpowered Dams Act’’; and H.R. 2880, the of the regulatory process, focusing on lessons from state ‘‘Promoting Closed-Loop Pumped Storage Hydropower legislatures, 10 a.m., SD–342. Act’’, 10 a.m., 2123 Rayburn. Committee on the Judiciary: business meeting to consider Committee on the Judiciary, Subcommittee on Immigra- S. 807, to provide anti-retaliation protections for antitrust tion and Border Security, hearing entitled ‘‘Oversight of whistleblowers, and the nominations of Allison H. Eid, the United States Refugee Admissions Program’’, 9 a.m., of Colorado, to be United States Circuit Judge for the 2141 Rayburn. Tenth Circuit, Stephanos Bibas, of Pennsylvania, to be Committee on Small Business, Subcommittee on Economic United States Circuit Judge for the Third Circuit, Liles Growth, Tax, and Capital Access, hearing entitled ‘‘Fi- Clifton Burke, to be United States District Judge for the nancing Through Fintech: Online Lending’s Role in Im- Northern District of Alabama, Walter David Counts III, proving Small Business Capital Access’’, 10 a.m., 2360 to be United States District Judge for the Western Dis- Rayburn.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 10 a.m., Thursday, October 26 9 a.m., Thursday, October 26

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Thursday: Senate will continue consider- Program for Thursday: Consideration of the Senate ation of the nomination of Scott L. Palk, to be United Amendment to H. Con. Res. 71—Establishing the Con- States District Judge for the Western District of Okla- gressional Budget for the United States Government for homa, post-cloture, and vote on confirmation of the nom- fiscal year 2018 and setting forth the appropriate budg- ination at 12 noon. etary levels for fiscal years 2019 through 2027. Following disposition of the nomination of Scott L. Palk, Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of Trevor N. McFadden, of Virginia, to be United States District Judge for the District of Co- lumbia.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Frelinghuysen, Rodney P., N.J., E1424, E1427 Palazzo, Steven M., Miss., E1429 Hoyer, Steny H., Md., E1428 Perry, Scott, Pa., E1427 Blackburn, Marsha, Tenn., E1427 Huizenga, Bill, Mich., E1424 Rokita, Todd, Ind., E1427 Bost, Mike, Ill., E1430 Jeffries, Hakeem S., N.Y., E1432 Sa´ nchez, Linda T., Calif., E1429 Byrne, Bradley, Ala., E1423 Kelly, Trent, Miss., E1423, E1425, E1426 Scalise, Steve, La., E1423, E1423 Calvert, Ken, Calif., E1428 Lawrence, Brenda L., Mich., E1430, E1431 Scott, Robert C. ‘‘Bobby’’, Va., E1431 Costa, Jim, Calif., E1425, E1429 Matsui, Doris O., Calif., E1428 Smith, Christopher H., N.J., E1426 Denham, Jeff, Calif., E1430 McHenry, Patrick T., N.C., E1423 Stivers, Steve, Ohio, E1430 Deutch, Theodore E., Fla., E1431 Norton, Eleanor Holmes, The District of Columbia, Young, David, Iowa, E1424, E1424, E1425, E1426, E1427, Duncan, John J., Jr., Tenn., E1424 E1431, E1432 E1428, E1430, E1430, E1431, E1432

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