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

Home , Arthur Laffer, David Stockman

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

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2017 No. 207 House of Representatives The House met at 9 a.m. and was The vast majority of Americans get more incentives for this to continue called to order by the Speaker. little and temporary tax reduction, and even get worse. The increased debt f only to see the bottom 80 percent of will make it even harder to rebuild and our taxpayers, on average, actually renew America and to meet the needs MORNING-HOUR DEBATE facing a tax increase when the bill is of our aging and growing population. The SPEAKER. Pursuant to the fully phased in. After the wreckage of the Amtrak order of the House of January 3, 2017, The permanent, massive tax reduc- train in the Pacific Northwest, Trump the Chair will now recognize Members tion for the privileged few comes at a pointed out the need for infrastructure from lists submitted by the majority very high cost for the rest of America. investment to rebuild and renew the and minority leaders for morning-hour Despite false promises, it will not re- country. That is not going to happen. debate. motely pay for itself through economic It is already triggering an automatic The Chair will alternate recognition growth. $25 billion cut in Medicare. Repub- between the parties. All time shall be We start with a massive increase in licans are scrambling to figure out how equally allocated between the parties, national debt; increased interest costs; to avoid that. We are hearing from Re- and in no event shall debate continue a total increase of $2.3 trillion, and publican leadership that this increased beyond 9:50 a.m. Each Member, other likely very higher as the accountants debt illustrates the need to cut back on than the majority and minority leaders and lawyers discover how to fully ex- programs that meet the needs of aver- and the minority whip, shall be limited ploit the many new loopholes created age Americans and low-income citizens to 5 minutes. by lobbyists. while we are showering increased tax f This bill is not tax simplification. It benefits on the wealthy. greatly complicates the Tax Code. It has been a bonanza for all the at- TAX CUT NIGHTMARE Look at trying to understand just the torneys, accountants, and lobbyists The SPEAKER. The Chair recognizes passthrough provisions. finding ways to further enrich the most the gentleman from Oregon (Mr. BLU- Also, we have an IRS that is strug- privileged. In the weeks to come, we MENAUER) for 5 minutes. gling right now because my Republican will find out more special gifts used to Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, it friends have cut its budget 17 percent nail down the last few votes. I don’t has come to this: Republicans are since 2010. They have 23,000 fewer em- know whether the Corker kickback is poised to pass the largest transfer of ployees, an outmoded data processing true or not, but it leaves the public wealth in our Nation’s history, fi- system, and more taxpayers—10 mil- wondering why the immediate about- nanced by mortgaging our children’s lion more returns. It is not clear the face from the Senator from Tennessee future with a mountain of increased IRS can even administer this bill. when nothing has changed except there debt. Middle America will pay with in- have been a few provisions added. What is wrong with this picture? creased economic insecurity, as it will No wonder the American public is op- Well, first of all, nobody really knows increase insurance premiums an aver- posed. They are right, and the Repub- everything that is in this bill. It has age of 10 percent a year. It will desta- licans are wrong. been written over the last few days to bilize the health insurance market and f satisfy donors and win the final few increase the ranks of the uninsured by votes necessary for Senate passage. It 13 million people over the next 10 MORNING AGAIN IN AMERICA is not tax reform. It is not even a pol- years. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. icy, but a collection of special interest Most Americans will pay the price THOMPSON of Pennsylvania). The Chair provisions being sold on a false set of with the massive increase in debt, recognizes the gentleman from Cali- promises. making it harder for everyone who fornia (Mr. MCCLINTOCK) for 5 minutes. It is, decidedly, not middle class tax wants to borrow money to start a busi- Mr. MCCLINTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I op- relief. It is permanent, massive tax re- ness, finance a college education, or posed the House version of the tax reductions for the largest corporations buy a home. It increases the likelihood form bill because the loss of broad- and wealthy individuals. Every inde- of sending even more American money based deductions like State and local pendent expert agrees and the Amer- overseas to pay for the foreign holders taxes would have caused significant tax ican public understand that the bene- of American debt that has increased. increases on many of my middle class fits of this bill flow not primarily to It does not address the problem of constituents in the high-tax, high-cost the middle class, but to people like offshoring our economic activities and State of California. It actually in- Donald Trump. the resulting revenue loss. It provides creased the marginal tax rate on high-

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.

H10183

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.000 H19DEPT1 H10184 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 income earners and abolished lifeline pay business taxes. Businesses collect ‘‘Tomorrow is Christmas, it is practically deductions such as casualty loss, med- them from just three sources: from here,’’ ical expenses, and student interest. I consumers through higher prices, from He said from his office with a terrible sneer. urge that we should leave no taxpayer employees through lower wages, and ‘‘Why, for 71 years I have put up with it now, I must stop these middle class tax cuts. But behind. from investors through lower earnings, how?’’ I thank Chairman BRADY, the Repub- usually pension plans and IRAs. Then he got an idea, an awful idea, lican leadership, and the conference We have the highest corporate tax The Grinch got a terrible, awful idea. committee for heeding these concerns. rate in the industrialized world, and ‘‘I know just what to do,’’ the Grinch Their final product exceeds my expec- commerce and capital simply move thought with a pause, tations and, on behalf of California tax- around it, leaving our workers behind. ‘‘With this coat and this hat, I look just like payers, I can now offer my enthusiastic That is one of the reasons we averaged Santa Claus.’’ support. just 1.5 percent economic growth under Then he loaded some empty bags on his The new version leaves the casualty Obama—worse than any President plane, And he took off to cause some mean Grinchy loss, medical expense, and student in- since Herbert Hoover—and lost an en- pain. terest deductions intact. No family tire decade of prosperity. While working families dreamed of sweet tax needs to fear being ruined by taxes The Marxists tell us that this is just cuts without care, after a major disaster or illness, and trickle-down economics and it has The Grinch came to the first little house on graduates can continue to plan their never worked. Well, in fact, it has al- the square. lives knowing that interest on their ways worked. It worked when Warren ‘‘This is stop number one,’’ the old Grinch student loans will not be taxed. Harding did it in the 1920s, when John Claus hissed, The new bill eases the proposed limit F. Kennedy did it in the 1960s, when And he climbed to the roof, empty bags in on mortgage interest deductions and Ronald Reagan did it in the 1980s, and, his fist. allows up to $10,000 of State and local Then he slid down the chimney, Santa suit lest we forget, when Bill Clinton ap- all in place, taxes to be deducted, all important proved the biggest capital gains tax cut And he stuck his head out of the small fire- changes for California. But most im- in American history. place, portantly, the lower tax rates in this Concerns over the deficit are legiti- Where the tax deductions all hung in a row, bill now more than compensate in al- mate and must be addressed by spend- ‘‘These deductions,’’ he grinned, ‘‘are the most every case for the remaining lim- ing reforms in the coming year. We first things to go.’’ its on State and local tax and mort- must always remember that taxes and Personal exemptions, home equity interest, gage interest deductions. Even tax- debt are driven by just one thing: State and local taxes, too, payers who lose tens of thousand of ‘‘I’ll take almost every deduction away from spending. you.’’ dollars of deductions will still end up The proof of these policies will mani- Then he slunk to the tax brackets—the cor- paying lower taxes than they do today. fest itself over the coming year, and porate tax cuts were huge, For example, a couple earning $60,000 every American will be able to decide Why, that Grinch even took the Arctic Wild- with a $300,000 home and three adult for themselves if this has made them life Refuge. dependents would have paid $200 more better off. I think that is why the left ‘‘And now,’’ grinned the Grinch, with his in taxes under the old bill. But under has pulled out all the stops to defeat it. sacks in a net, this new version, they will save $340. Their arguments are exactly the same ‘‘I’ll stack the deficit with $1 trillion in debt.’’ A couple earning $150,000 with a economically illiterate attacks filled $750,000 home—that is a high-end tract Then he heard a small sound, a child’s soft with class envy that they made against cry, home in California—and one child Reagan. ‘‘Why are you taking our deductions, would have paid $1,200 more in taxes When the American people awakened Grinch? Why?’’ under the old House bill. But under the one day to find it was morning again in But, you know, that old Grinch was so smart new bill, that same family will save America, the left was discredited for a and so slick, $720. generation. Let history repeat itself, That he thought up a fib, and he thought it The business tax provisions are espe- beginning today, with this vote. up quick. cially important because they will re- ‘‘Why, my sweet little tot,’’ the Grinch said f store American workers to an inter- on the fly, nationally competitive position. Ac- HOW THE GRINCH STOLE MIDDLE ‘‘I am here because corporate taxes are far CLASS TAX CUTS too high. cording to economists ranging from ‘‘So I am taking most of your deductions Martin Feldstein to Arthur Laffer, The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. away, these provisions alone will produce $5 ROGERS of Kentucky). The Chair recog- ‘‘To help corporations . . . and you get to trillion of new economic activity over nizes the gentleman from Rhode Island pay. the next decade. That is $40,000 per (Mr. CICILLINE) for 5 minutes. ‘‘See, my dear child, there is no reason to household, including $2 trillion of new Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, with a frown, tax revenues to all levels of govern- little help from Dr. Seuss, I would like ‘‘We will make them more wealthy, but it ment. will all trickle down.’’ to share the story of how the Grinch His fib fooled the child, then he patted her Last Friday, I toured AMPAC, a local stole middle class tax cuts: head, company making the active ingredient Every middle class family wanted tax cuts a And he got her a tax postcard, and he sent in several cancer and epilepsy drugs. lot, her to bed. Their product is then shipped to Ire- But the Grinch, who lived in a big white The Grinch took one last look at her sad lit- land to make the actual medicine sole- house, did not. tle pup, ly because the corporate tax in the The Grinch hated middle class tax cuts, he And he went to the chimney and shoved the United States is 35 percent, and in Ire- wanted the whole Tax Code uneven, deficit up. land it is just 12.5 percent. Now, please, don’t ask why, no one quite Healthcare for 13 million was the last thing knows the reason. he took, Their CEO, Aslam Malik, told me It could be his head was screwed on a bit Then he slithered away without another that, if they gave their product away wrong, look. for free, the final medicine could still It could be his ties were 2 inches too long, In their homes he left nothing but debt and not be competitively manufactured in But I think that the most likely reason of despair, the United States solely because of our all, While giving out handouts to corporations— taxes. He expects their local company Was his heart, or his hands, were two sizes the Grinch didn’t care. will grow dramatically because of this too small. And the one deduction that he extolled, tax reform, employing hundreds more Whatever the reason, his heart or his ties, Was even too small for a single household. He stood on Christmas Eve, planning work- He rode with his load of deductions for families both directly and indirectly as ers’ demise, dumping, they expand everything from payroll to Staring out from his office with a sour, ‘‘Pooh-pooh to the middle class,’’ he said, infrastructure. Grinchy frown, gleefully jumping. You see, that is what the Marxists At the workers’ warm, lighted windows ‘‘They’re just waking up, I know just what just don’t understand. Businesses don’t below in their town. they’ll do,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.002 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10185 ‘‘Their mouths will hang open a minute or savings represent the ability for par- centives for them to leave the island two, and they’ll all cry, ‘boo-hoo.’ ents to save for opportunities, includ- and take jobs with them. b 0915 ing future education costs for their Let’s be clear. Puerto Ricans are kids, retirement savings; or for unex- American citizens. They fight in our ‘‘That’s a noise,’’ grinned the Grinch, ‘‘that pected times when an emergency fund wars, many of them laying down their I simply must hear.’’ lives for our freedoms, yet this bill con- So he paused. And the Grinch put his hand to is needed to cover unplanned costs. his ear. I heard loud and clear from a lot of tinues treating Puerto Rico differently And he did hear a sound rising over the snow. people in the Fifth District—students than the rest of the United States. It started to low. Then it started to grow. and parents—about the importance of For decades, decisions made right He stared down aghast. The Grinch popped protecting graduate student tuition ex- here in this body hollowed out, weak- his eyes. emptions. To ensure we continue to ened, and undermined Puerto Rico’s Then he shook. What he saw was a shocking support hardworking students pursuing economy. This tax bill continues that surprise. their career goals, this bill continues awful tradition, undercutting Puerto Every American, the tall and the small, those exemptions. Rico’s economy once more. loudly demanding tax cuts for all. All told, these tax provisions will We want our deductions and a better deal, We heard you. not tax cuts for corporations while you Deborah from Anderson called my of- cost Puerto Rico more than 200,000 cut Meals on Wheels. fice asking that we preserve the mort- jobs, at exactly the time when the is- And the Grinch, with his small hands ice- gage interest deduction. This bill does land needs all the help it can get. cold in the snow, stood puzzling and that. It makes no changes to deduc- While this tax scam would hurt Puer- puzzling: tions for current mortgages and it to Rico, it also does nothing to help. ‘‘How could it be so? keeps the deduction in place for new While they had talked of it, there is ‘‘Am I a fool? nothing to expand the child tax credit ‘‘Are my policies all wrong? mortgages of up to $750,000. I heard you, Deborah. for Puerto Rico. They eliminated the ‘‘Without those deductions, can the Nation meager extensions of section 199 and be strong?’’ I was also contacted by a young mar- And he puzzled 3 hours until his puzzler was ried couple from Zionsville, in my dis- rum cover-over provisions contained in sore. trict, who said, thanks to this bill, the House version. Then the Grinch thought of something he they have done the calculations and The Speaker of the House and the Re- had not tweeted before: they think they are going to receive a publican leader went to Puerto Rico. ‘‘Maybe tax cuts should help more than just $5,000 tax cut. They will use that They looked the people of Puerto Rico corporations. money to boost their savings so that in the eye and made promises to help ‘‘Maybe this Christmas I can help the whole they can buy their first home sooner them. Nation. That is how you help Puerto Rico? ‘‘America’s middle class is what made it than they expected. What we are seeing is that their tax I heard you. thrive. bill would serve simply to crush Puerto Providing our friends, neighbors, col- ‘‘They need these deductions if they’re to Rico’s economy. survive.’’ leagues, and loved ones the freedom to Mr. Speaker, this bill is morally We all know how the real story ends. pursue their dreams—like buying a The Grinch finds his heart and he makes bankrupt. It harms American citizens first home or saving for college—is everywhere. It kicks Puerto Rico when amends. what allows our society to improve and Now we know this tax bill won’t end with it is down. It must be rejected. Vote such glee, because the President and better itself. ‘‘no.’’ I encourage my colleagues to also lis- corporate lobbyists control the GOP. f This Christmas, families will get just coal in ten to the American people to show their stocking. that we have heard them, and to sup- CELEBRATING 100TH ANNIVER- Thanks to President Trump, the final result port this bill. I believe it will help pro- SARY OF JACKSON HEALTH SYS- will be shocking. vide security for families across the TEM f Nation and it will help turn their The SPEAKER pro tempore. The TAX REFORM dreams into their new reality. Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from f Florida (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN) for 5 min- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. utes. ROGERS of Kentucky). The Chair recog- OPPOSING THE GOP TAX SCAM CONFERENCE REPORT Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I nizes the gentlewoman from Indiana am proud to rise today to celebrate the (Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana) for 5 minutes. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The 100th anniversary of Jackson Health Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speak- Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from System. er, over the past 31 years, our Tax Code New York (Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ) for 5 min- Jackson Memorial Hospital first has become broken. As our Tax Code is utes. opened its doors in south Florida a cen- currently written, I have been told by Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, I rise tury ago as a 13-bed community hos- many that it fails to support families in opposition to this tax scam bill. Not pital. In the years since, Jackson has across the country with the resources only will it harm working families grown to become one of the Nation’s they need in order to properly plan for across the Nation, but it will visit an- largest and most renowned public hos- their futures. Our Tax Code has left other hurricane on Puerto Rico: an pital systems. those behind who are struggling to economic hurricane. But, throughout the many periods of make ends meet, and that is unaccept- Today, Puerto Rico is in the grip of a growth and expansion, Jackson has re- able. humanitarian crisis. More than 235,000 mained true to its core mission: to Today is a historic day because that of its people have already fled the is- build and improve the health of our is all about to change. We have heard land for the mainland. community by providing the best pos- you. Today we will vote on comprehen- After Maria, many of my col- sible care for Miami’s residents. sive tax reform. leagues—from Speaker RYAN to Leader Mr. Speaker, by caring for those During consideration of H.R. 1, An- MCCARTHY—went to Puerto Rico and most in need, Jackson Health System drew from Indianapolis contacted me, promised they would assist the island has created a solid foundation that has asking that we craft a tax plan that and help them recover. Instead, what empowered our families to thrive. helps the middle class. The Tax Cuts they are doing is finding a way to fur- Congratulations to their leader, Car- and Jobs Act bill does just that. ther drive Puerto Rico’s economy into los Migoya, and all of the staff of Jack- Thanks to the reduced personal tax the ground. son Health System on a century of ex- rates this bill provides, the average Even though it is part of the United cellence and care to our community. I family of four, earning $73,000, will pay States—remember, since 1898, when thank them for continuing to serve as $2,000 less in Federal taxes. military forces invaded Puerto Rico— stewards of Jackson’s legacy and for We heard you, Andrew. this bill treats Puerto Rico as a foreign continuing to use healthcare to im- A single mother earning $40,000 will jurisdiction, levying new taxes on cor- prove people’s lives and to help shape see $1,300 more in her paycheck. Those porations operating there, creating in- their bright futures.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.003 H19DEPT1 H10186 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 RECOGNIZING DIANE WHITAKER his time and energy to his neighbors tools they have learned to lead safer The SPEAKER pro tempore. The and his community. For that, we are and healthier lives and to become lead- Chair recognizes the gentleman from grateful. ers in the lower Bucks County community. Pennsylvania (Mr. THOMPSON) for 5 I wish him the best in retirement. minutes. f CREATION OF A NEW GOLD STAR FAMILIES MEMORIAL MONUMENT Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. RECOGNIZING PEARL S. BUCK Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor INTERNATIONAL this December, ground was broken at Diane L. Whitaker as she retires from The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the Washington Crossing National the Clinton County Library System Chair recognizes the gentleman from Cemetery for the creation of a new this year after serving 31 years and 31 Pennsylvania (Mr. FITZPATRICK) for 5 Gold Star Families Memorial Monu- days as executive director of the Ross minutes. ment. These monuments are erected Library in Lock Haven, Pennsylvania. Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I across this country to recognize U.S. In the library’s 107 years of existence, rise today to recognize the important military members who have laid down Ms. Whitaker is just the seventh direc- work that Pearl S. Buck International their lives and their family members tor, but she is the longest serving in its is doing in our community in Bucks who have suffered alongside of them. history. County. Among those present for the The Ross Library Board of Trustees Pearl S. Buck was the first woman to groundbreaking was Hershel ‘‘Woody’’ recently hosted a celebration for Ms. receive both the Pulitzer and Nobel Williams. Mr. Williams, a former ma- Whitaker. They also revealed the Prize for literature. Pearl Buck spent rine, is the last surviving Medal of newly named ‘‘Diane L. Whitaker Gen- decades of her life in China, immersing Honor recipient for honorable service ealogy Collection’’ on a plaque in her herself in its culture and history, with during the Battle of Iwo Jima. It was honor. her remaining time living in Bucks with the help of his foundation that Over the years, Ms. Whitaker has County, Pennsylvania. this monument was made possible. overseen numerous projects and has These memorials include stories The foundation continues her work, also authored grant applications that about homeland, family, patriot, and providing opportunities to explore and have helped local libraries with much- sacrifice. In the center is a cutout that appreciate other cultures and building needed funding. represents the loved one who has sac- better lives for children around the Ms. Whitaker was raised in Clearfield rificed their life in defense of our great globe. Their work on projects—like the County and holds a bachelor’s degree in country. Backyard Gardening Project in the secondary education from Lock Haven Mr. Speaker, we can never forget Philippines, Life Skills Education for University. She earned a master’s de- those who have paid the ultimate price Children Living in Vietnamese Orphan- gree in library science from Clarion to secure our freedoms, nor can we for- ages, and Thailand Clean Drinking University. get the families who supported them in Water and Sanitation Project—has in- She has been a career librarian for their noble endeavors. We are so proud creased humanitarian aid for people more than four decades, working as a to have a Gold Star Families Memorial across the world. school librarian, bookmobile librarian, Monument in our district. The organization’s School Outreach children’s coordinator, branch librar- f Program and the High School Leader- ian, and administrator. ship Program, which equips students RECESS Ms. Whitaker and her husband, Les- committed to making lifelong con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ter, live in Beech Creek. They have tributions within the community with ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair three daughters and six grandchildren, effective leadership skills, have made declares the House in recess until 10 all of whom reside in Clinton and Cen- positive and long-lasting impacts in a.m. today. tre Counties. our district. I am thankful for, and Accordingly (at 9 o’clock and 31 min- Mr. Speaker, I thank Ms. Whitaker stand in full support of, the work that utes a.m.), the House stood in recess. for all her contributions to Ross Li- Pearl S. Buck International does in our f brary and the entire Clinton County community and around the globe. Library System. The community is a b 1000 better place thanks to her efforts. She RECOGNIZING BENJAMIN RUSH ELEMENTARY SCHOOL AFTER RECESS plans to visit State and national parks Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, The recess having expired, the House in her retirement, which I think is an this December, over 50 students at Ben- was called to order by the Speaker pro outstanding plan. jamin Rush Elementary School in tempore (Mr. WOMACK) at 10 a.m. RECOGNIZING MICHAEL COLBERT Bucks County were recognized for their f Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. completion of the Drug Abuse Resist- PRAYER Mr. Speaker, for nearly 20 years, Mi- ance Education Program. This train- chael Colbert has given his leadership ing—more commonly known as The Chaplain, the Reverend Patrick to Oil Creek Township as supervisor D.A.R.E.—teaches young students basic J. Conroy, offered the following prayer: Loving God, we give You thanks for chairman. Last week, he oversaw his skills for responsible decisionmaking. giving us another day. final meeting as supervisor, and he will I thank the officers of the Bensalem retire at the end of the year. In the waning days of the first ses- Township Police Department for their sion of the 115th Congress, help the Mr. Colbert first served as a super- work with Benjamin Rush Elementary visor in 1993 to fill a vacancy, but he Members of the House, and those of the School and for their commitment to Senate, to act wisely and carefully in stepped down the next year. He would educating young citizens in our dis- run again in 1999, win the seat, and of- the important work they do. trict. And as our Nation passes through ficially be sworn in in January 2000. this holy season for millions of Ameri- Over nearly 20 years at the helm, Mr. b 0930 cans, may there be good will in our Colbert oversaw numerous projects, In the face of a growing opioid crisis, communities and peace and reconcili- but he told the Titusville Herald that it is vital that students learn about the ation where those virtues are so sorely his proudest achievement was helping consequences of drug abuse. needed. pave the way for Walmart to open a Mr. Speaker, as an EMT and vice May all that is done within the peo- store in the township. chair of the Bipartisan Heroin Task ple’s House be for Your greater honor In his well-deserved retirement, Mr. Force, I applaud the efforts of edu- and glory. Colbert said he plans to vacation in cational programs like these and all Amen. Florida for a few weeks. those who seek to learn from them. f Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Colbert for Educating the young people in our his dedication and leadership to Oil communities about the potential dan- THE JOURNAL Creek Township as supervisor chair- gers of drug abuse is absolutely crucial, The SPEAKER pro tempore. The man. He has given nearly 20 years of and it is my hope that they will use the Chair has examined the Journal of the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.006 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10187 last day’s proceedings and announces healthcare that is right for them. Job The road ahead is long. Eighty per- to the House his approval thereof. creators will see the corporate tax rate cent of the countries receiving U.S. aid Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- lowered to 21 percent on January 1, still suffer from water issues. With our nal stands approved. 2018, which is the largest reduction in God-given resources, we have an obli- Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. our Nation’s history. gation to make sure people receive the Mr. Speaker, pursuant to clause 1, rule Mr. Speaker, this is just some of basic element of life—clean water—be- I, I demand a vote on agreeing to the what this once-in-a-generation pro- cause water is life. Speaker’s approval of the Journal. posal does to help America keep more And that is just the way it is. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The of their hard-earned paychecks. I en- f question is on the Speaker’s approval courage my colleagues to join me in PROTECT OUR DREAMERS of the Journal. voting for H.R. 1. (Mr. COSTA asked and was given per- The question was taken; and the f Speaker pro tempore announced that mission to address the House for 1 THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN WHAT the ayes appeared to have it. minute and to revise and extend his re- THE MAJORITY SAYS AND WHAT Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. marks.) THE MAJORITY DOES Mr. Speaker, I object to the vote on the Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today ground that a quorum is not present (Ms. KELLY of Illinois asked and was to stand with the DREAMers, both in and make the point of order that a given permission to address the House the San Joaquin Valley and through- quorum is not present. for 1 minute.) out our country. Protecting our The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Ms. KELLY of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I DREAMers is the responsible, moral, ant to clause 8, rule XX, further pro- rise today because the majority is and just thing to do. The majority of Americans want ceedings on this question will be post- working to pass a tax scam that will legal protection for our DREAMers, poned. raise taxes on my constituents. and Congress must listen. I have been The point of no quorum is considered For nearly a year, Republicans have listening to those who have visited my withdrawn. promised tax reform that benefits middle class families. Once again, there is offices, university presidents, religious f a big difference between what the ma- organizations, my constituents, who PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE jority says and what the majority does. simply want us to provide legalization for these individuals who have come to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Will the Instead of being a tax break for middle class Americans, it is a tax scam this country at an average age of 6 gentlewoman from Illinois (Ms. KELLY) that will force hardworking Illinois years of age. This is the only country come forward and lead the House in the they have ever known. Pledge of Allegiance. moms and dads to pay the bill for tax giveaways to the rich and well con- Passing the Dream Act is a priority Ms. KELLY of Illinois led the Pledge for Democrats and has strong support of Allegiance as follows: nected. That is just wrong. Mr. Speaker, the American people for many Republicans. We just need to I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the know it is a scam. A new poll from vote on the bill. United States of America, and to the Repub- I am a cosponsor of the Dream Act, Monmouth University found that half lic for which it stands, one nation under God, and I have joined nearly 200 of my col- of all Americans believe this GOP tax indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. leagues signing a discharge petition to scam will raise their taxes. These folks f bring this legislation to the floor. I are right. It will raise their taxes, espe- now call on my Republican colleagues ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER cially for families in Illinois and in the to do the right thing and allow a vote PRO TEMPORE Second District. Mr. Speaker, I will never vote to on the Dream Act. I will continue to advocate for poli- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The raise my constituents’ taxes just to cies that protect our DREAMers. I urge Chair will entertain up to 15 requests pay for massive tax giveaways to major our DREAMers to continue to make for 1-minute speeches on each side of corporations and a handful of super- their voices heard, as they have across the aisle. wealthy families. this country, and to urge people in f I urge my colleagues to vote ‘‘no’’ Congress to do the right thing. and stand with America’s middle class SUPPORTING TAX REFORM We must stay vigilant in our efforts and working families, the backbone of (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania to protect these individuals, and we as our Nation. Americans understand what these indi- asked and was given permission to ad- f dress the House for 1 minute and to re- viduals mean to our country. Pass the Dream Act now. vise and extend his remarks.) WATER IS LIFE Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. (Mr. POE of Texas asked and was f Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support of given permission to address the House ENSURING A BRIGHTER FUTURE the conference report to accompany for 1 minute.) FOR FAMILIES H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, near- (Mr. WALBERG asked and was given For the first time since 1986, there is ly 700 million people across the globe permission to address the House for 1 a real opportunity to challenge the sta- lack access to water. This is a dis- minute.) tus quo and simplify the Tax Code. The turbing world crisis. In many coun- Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, as I final agreement lowers rates and sig- tries, women and children walk for travel the Seventh District of Michi- nificantly increases the standard de- miles and face countless risks just to gan, I have met with many hard- duction for both individuals and joint find some water. working families who are living pay- filers. American families will see the Mr. Speaker, water is not just about check to paycheck; moms and dads child tax credit expanded to help par- drinking; it is about sanitation; it is struggling to pay the mortgage, make ents with the cost of raising children. about hygiene. It prevents diseases and ends meet; many businesses weighed Importantly, the graduate tuition drastically improves the quality of life. down by a burdensome and outdated voucher exemption and student loan That is why I worked with my friend, Tax Code. We developed the Tax Cuts interest deduction have remained to Representative EARL BLUMENAUER, for and Jobs Act with them in mind. ensure our commitment to opportunity the Water for the World Act. For families across my district, our through education. I, and many of my This bill has made it U.S. policy to plan means more jobs, more take-home colleagues, urged the conference com- improve international access to safe pay, and more money in their pockets. mittee to keep these important provi- water, sanitation, and hygiene. I ap- At every income level, people will see sions intact. plaud the administration on issuing meaningful tax relief. H.R. 1 also eliminates ObamaCare’s the Global Water Strategy required by On top of that, our plan will help individual mandate penalty tax to that law, and I look forward to seeing small businesses thrive, boost job cre- allow Americans the flexibility to buy its implementation. ation here at home, and make our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.008 H19DEPT1 H10188 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 economy stronger and more competi- dent of the Iredell County Fraternal b 1015 tive. Order of Police; Duck Wyatt, the sec- HONORING CALVIN IRVIN Mr. Speaker, the choice before us ond vice president; and all those who today is clear. We can prop up a broken participated to help make this Christ- (Ms. ADAMS asked and was given Tax Code and maintain the status quo, mas a better one for families in the permission to address the House for 1 or we can pass the most sweeping tax community. minute.) Ms. ADAMS. Mr. Speaker, I rise overhaul in three decades and deliver f today to honor the life of Calvin Irvin, historic tax relief to those who need it WHITE ELEPHANT GIFT a native of New Jersey and a resident most. EXCHANGE of Greensboro, North Carolina, who Let’s pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act (Mr. DOGGETT asked and was given passed away November 25, 2017. and ensure a brighter future for the Cal, as he was fondly called, was an families we represent. permission to address the House for 1 minute.) honorable man, dedicated to his com- f Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, for munity and to mentoring young stu- THE REPUBLICAN TAX SCAM those with silk stockings, it is a very dent athletes. Over his career, he served as coach of Johnson C. Smith (Ms. JAYAPAL asked and was given Merry Christmas indeed. The billion- University’s basketball team, and later permission to address the House for 1 aires get stuffed, but we get coal. It is as professor and head coach of North minute and to revise and extend her re- like a White Elephant gift exchange. Carolina A&T’s basketball team for 18 marks.) The billionaires grab the good gifts, years. Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise and the leftovers go to working families, though they get the bill for every- Cal always emphasized the impor- today to urge my colleagues to say no tance of education, ensuring the dedi- to this outrageous tax bill and do what thing. How many millions of dollars the cation and perseverance that his ath- is right for the American people. letes learned on the court was also ex- This bill gives more riches to the Trump family will personally stuff in their pockets cannot be precisely de- hibited in the classroom. richest Republican donors, at the ex- A devoted citizen of the Greensboro pense of middle class families and the termined, only because of continuing Republican collusion to cover up community, he served in countless poorest. This bill does what the Amer- civic roles, including treasurer of the ican people already said no to, which Trump’s personal tax returns. Excluding the public, refusing to Convention and Tourism Bureau and a is, it dismantles the Affordable Care even permit Democrats to offer an lifelong member of the NAACP. Act. It throws 13 million Americans off amendment, Republicans dumped this He brought his generous spirit and of their healthcare and increases pre- proposal out this weekend and now de- his heart home with him, too. He was a miums for millions more. mand an immediate vote. The dangers loving husband to his beloved wife, This tax bill eliminates most of the lurking in this bill for economic oppor- Kathryn, and to his nephew who was State and local tax deduction and tunity, for tax fairness, are very real, like a brother. shortchanges so many communities As my longtime dear friend and sup- but they are overshadowed by the dan- across the Nation, slashing education porter, Cal’s golden heart shined a gers to our democracy from these funding by as much as $152 billion over bright spot in my life, too. He will be Trump tactics to impose his rule on the next decade. sorely missed. His loss will be felt This tax heist runs up the deficit by America. throughout our entire State and be- Republicans decided the only way to $1 trillion to $1.5 trillion and triggers yond. pass their program was to hide it. Let’s automatic spending cuts to Medicare, My thoughts and prayers continue to reject it today. Medicaid, and services that children be with his wife, Kathryn, his family, and seniors depend on. f his friends, and his community. This tax scam gives 80 percent of the HONORING THE SERVICE OF f benefits to the top 1 percent. That is a THOMAS PERSEO PROCLAMATION RECOGNIZING war on any idea of opportunity and in- (Mr. YOHO asked and was given per- GEORGE C. SHEPPARD come equality in this country. It is not mission to address the House for 1 tax reform, and I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote. (Mr. NORMAN asked and was given minute and to revise and extend his re- permission to address the House for 1 f marks.) minute.) COPS AND KIDS Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to rec- Mr. NORMAN. Mr. Speaker, Tuesday, ognize a lifelong public servant, Mr. (Mr. BUDD asked and was given per- January 2, 2018, is a great day for the Thomas Perseo, who will be retiring on mayor of Tega Cay, South Carolina. mission to address the House for 1 January 10, 2018, after 43 years of faith- minute and to revise and extend his re- Let me read the proclamation: ful service to north-central Florida’s ‘‘Whereas, serving as an elected offi- marks.) community in law enforcement. cial in local government requires sac- Mr. BUDD. Mr. Speaker, our police- Mr. Perseo began his career in Green rifice, passion, and dedication; and men and -women wake up every day Cove Springs, Florida, in the police de- ‘‘Whereas, as George C. Sheppard was and do a job that is dangerous and partment in September 1974. He served elected as the mayor of the city of often thankless. They are truly serv- his hometown community until 1982, Tega Cay on November 10, 2009, after ants of the public and protectors of and then moved to Gainesville, Florida. serving 2 years as the city’s mayor pro those who cannot help themselves. If Upon his move, Officer Perseo started tempore; and that weren’t enough, I wanted to speak working for the Alachua County Sher- ‘‘Whereas, Mayor Sheppard faithfully briefly today to highlight officers who iff’s Office. He is currently a warrant and dutifully served as the city’s have gone even further. investigator, and, after 35 years of mayor for 8 years; and Mr. Speaker, the Iredell County Fra- dedicated law enforcement service with ‘‘Whereas, during his two terms as ternal Order of Police recently held a an exemplary record, Tom will be mayor, the city of Tega Cay prospered Cops and Kids event in Mooresville, starting the next chapter of his life. and solidified its place in the region.’’ North Carolina. Through their gen- Tom is a shining example of what it Mayor Sheppard, Godspeed in your erosity, more than two dozen families means to be an American. He has dedi- retirement, and thank you for your got around $100 worth of toys, clothes, cated his life to serving our commu- service to the great city of Tega Cay, and gifts for their loved ones. The sto- nity, and I have no doubt he will con- South Carolina. ries of struggle for these families, tinue to do so in retirement. I am f brightened by a moment of generosity, proud to represent such a hardworking are the stories we see around the coun- individual and also to have the honor EVIDENCE WHY THE AMERICAN try this Christmas. of being his friend. PEOPLE REJECT THE TAX BILL I am awed and humbled by the efforts For myself, and all of Florida’s Third (Mr. YARMUTH asked and was given of these officers. I want to especially District, I wish him the very best in his permission to address the House for 1 congratulate Tommy Chipman, presi- well-deserved retirement. minute.)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.010 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10189 Mr. YARMUTH. Mr. Speaker, this WORK WITH US TO DELIVER A years in wishing him great success in morning I saw a dramatic bit of evi- BETTER DEAL his new role as deputy director of dence as to why the American people (Mrs. BUSTOS asked and was given KACo. overwhelmingly reject the Republican permission to address the House for 1 f donor relief bill known as the tax re- minute.) THE REPUBLICAN TAX BILL IS form bill. Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, since BAD Chairman BRADY of the Ways and Donald Trump became the leader of the (Mr. ELLISON asked and was given Means Committee, the author of this Republican Party, they said they bill, was asked why he didn’t do any- permission to address the House for 1 would start standing up for America’s minute.) thing in the bill to change the carried workers. There were promises to stop interest deduction, that provision Mr. ELLISON. Mr. Speaker, in a few outsourcing and bring millions of man- hours from now, the Republican Con- which allows billionaire hedge fund ufacturing jobs back home. ference is going to bring forth a tax managers to pay a lower income tax But the two big items on PAUL bill. This bill will redistribute wealth rate than tens of millions of regular RYAN’s agenda have been cutting from working Americans up to the very Americans. healthcare and is a tax scam that is a richest people in our country. It will He said the middle class Americans direct attack on America’s middle result in massive deficits. It will result don’t care about that, working families class. It raises taxes on 86 million mid- in a starvation of the government to don’t. I understand why he didn’t want dle class households. It hands 83 per- stop it from doing critical things that to try to defend the protection of car- cent of its benefits to the wealthiest 1 it needs to do to afford the expenses of ried interest. There is no defense for it. percent. Perhaps worst of all, it is a job our country and to help Americans But here is why every American killer that will help big corporations lead better lives. ought to care: Because every dollar of move jobs overseas. But after it is all said and done, after lost revenue that goes back to those They claim it does just the opposite, that is done, Mr. Speaker, it is going to billionaire hedge fund managers will but why are they trying to ram this do at least three more things that are result in cut services for the vast ma- thing through so fast? very, very bad. jority of Americans, for Medicare, for Because they know that in the fine One of them is that the corporations Medicaid, for Social Security, and for print are new loopholes that make it that get all this money and the many others. It will add to the debt easier for companies to shift our work wealthy individuals will, one, do stock that their children and grandchildren out of America and pay less taxes. buybacks and promote their personal will have to pay for. Sure, this bill will create jobs. It will wealth. They will give each other bo- Mr. Speaker, that is a good reason create them over in China and Mexico nuses to give each other greater per- why everyone should care about this and Malaysia. sonal wealth. bill, why it is a scam on middle class Mr. Speaker, this tax scam is a huge They will have more money to do Americans, and why it ought to be re- broken promise. We can do better. more mergers to concentrate markets jected. f even more so that we have more monopoly and oligopoly around, and they f RECOGNIZING JUDGE JIM will buy political influence to further HENDERSON corrupt our democratic government. SALUTING THE NAVY’S NEWEST (Mr. COMER asked and was given Mr. Speaker, this is a bad thing, and SHIP permission to address the House for 1 I am looking forward to a big, strong minute.) ‘‘no.’’ (Mr. HILL asked and was given per- Mr. COMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise f mission to address the House for 1 today to recognize my good friend, minute and to revise and extend his re- PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Simpson County Judge Executive Jim marks.) OF CONFERENCE REPORT ON Henderson from the First Congres- Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to sa- H.R. 1, TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT; sional District of Kentucky. lute the U.S. Navy’s newest vessel, the PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Judge Henderson has served his com- USS Little Rock, and her brave crew. OF H.R. 3312, SYSTEMIC RISK munity since 1998, when he was elected DESIGNATION IMPROVEMENT Commissioned this past Saturday, as the youngest county judge executive the new USS Little Rock was built in ACT OF 2017; AND FOR OTHER in Kentucky, and has continually de- PURPOSES Wisconsin and is a littoral combat ship voted himself to organizations which Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, by di- that will operate in waters close to advance the development and pros- rection of the Committee on Rules, I shore. perity of Simpson County. call up House Resolution 667 and ask The vessel carries with it the name- Judge Henderson has decided to tran- for its immediate consideration. sake of Arkansas’ State capital and the sition into a new role as deputy direc- proud history of the former USS Little The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- tor of the Kentucky Association of lows: Rock. Counties, where he will be overseeing H. RES. 667 Today, it is also fitting to honor the their day-to-day operations and work- Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- former USS Little Rock. Completed in ing with local government officials in World War II, she was one of six vessels lution it shall be in order to consider the all 120 counties throughout the Com- conference report to accompany the bill to be converted to a guided missile monwealth to advocate for legislative (H.R. 1) to provide for reconciliation pursu- cruiser. She was the first U.S. Navy solutions that best meet the needs of ant to titles II and V of the concurrent reso- ship to be named for Little Rock, Ar- their constituencies. lution on the budget for fiscal year 2018. All kansas. His previous leadership within KACo, points of order against the conference report The only World War II cruiser on dis- combined with his personal and profes- and against its consideration are waived. play in the United States, the former sional networks, and his impeccable The conference report shall be considered as USS Little Rock is the sole survivor of read. The previous question shall be consid- record of achievement have prepared ered as ordered on the conference report to the Cleveland class. him to serve Kentucky’s local officials its adoption without intervening motion ex- The USS Little Rock served with dis- in a direct and expanded capacity. cept: (1) one hour of debate; and (2) one mo- tinction as a flagship for both the sec- Although he will be missed in his tion to recommit if applicable. Clause 5(b) of ond and the sixth fleets. current role, I am grateful for his rule XXI shall not apply to the conference I thank all of those who served on steadfast leadership and tireless con- report. the former USS Little Rock. I wish the tributions to Simpson County, as well SEC. 2. Upon adoption of this resolution it shall be in order to consider in the House the new USS Little Rock the best as she car- as his friendship and guidance. bill (H.R. 3312) to amend the Dodd-Frank ries out our Nation’s critical maritime Mr. Speaker, I join his family, Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protec- strategy and protects our interests friends, and all those who have bene- tion Act to specify when bank holding com- across the globe. fited from his efforts throughout the panies may be subject to certain enhanced

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:44 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.014 H19DEPT1 H10190 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 supervision, and for other purposes. All Mr. Speaker, the bottom line is that The conference report also simplifies points of order against consideration of the what we are doing here today is that tax filing. It eliminates costly special bill are waived. In lieu of the amendment the Republican Party is relying upon interest tax breaks. It protects the recommended by the Committee on Finan- the greatest system ever invented: the abilities of small businesses to write cial Services now printed in the bill, an amendment in the nature of a substitute free enterprise system. off interest on loans and offers a first- consisting of the text of Rules Committee The free enterprise system has ever 20 percent tax deduction to busi- Print 115-49, modified by the amendment brought the United States of America nesses organized as S corps, partner- printed in the report of the Committee on not only the greatest economic oppor- ships, LLCs, and sole proprietorships. Rules accompanying this resolution, shall be tunities in the world, but it is a system This will be a boom not only for the considered as adopted. The bill, as amended, of rule of law. It is a system of a Tax stock market, which we have seen shall be considered as read. All points of Code. It is a system of ideas that has since the day after the election, but we order against provisions in the bill, as made America the envy of the world. have seen a boom on Main Street as job amended, are waived. The previous question Mr. Speaker, I also get politically creators and new small businesses are shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as what is happening. We are taking what seeking to reinvest not only in their amended, and on any further amendment the Democratic Party and President thereto, to final passage without intervening business and in their community, but motion except: (1) one hour of debate equally Obama did to raise taxes by $1 trillion, for the opportunity to benefit workers divided and controlled by the chair and rank- the largest tax increase in the history in the United States of America. ing minority member of the Committee on of the United States, and we are The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is a direct Financial Services; and (2) one motion to re- trashing that today. and immediate boost for middle-in- commit with or without instructions. We are saying that the production come Americans who have been strug- SEC. 3. The requirement of clause 6(a) of that it made of 1.2 percent over 8 years gling—struggling for 8, now, 9 years— rule XIII for a two-thirds vote to consider a is unacceptable to the United States of to get a handle on not only their abil- report from the Committee on Rules on the America. It was unacceptable then, and ity to work with a broken tax system, same day it is presented to the House is we will not allow that to be the gauge waived with respect to any resolution re- but the ability to work with their own ported through the remainder of the first that we will measure our success in the local businesses to make sure that session of the One Hundred Fifteenth Con- future. their city succeeds, also. gress. Secondly, we are also going to deal It reduces the tax rate for low-in- SEC. 4. It shall be in order at any time properly and fairly with the Affordable come and middle-income Americans. It through the remainder of the first session of Care Act, a law that placed extensive increases and extends the child tax the One Hundred Fifteenth Congress for the burdens not only on people who did not credit to more families and, roughly, Speaker to entertain motions that the House want the healthcare bill that was doubles the standard deduction. With suspend the rules as though under clause 1 of placed forward, but placed a tremen- this piece of legislation today, legisla- rule XV. The Speaker or his designee shall dous cost on the middle class of this consult with the Minority Leader or her des- tion for middle-income families will ignee on the designation of any matter for country and the American people. allow them to be a part of an economic consideration pursuant to this section. b 1030 growth model for years to come. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- We are proud of what we are doing What we are doing today is bold. We and delighted that we offer this not tleman from Texas is recognized for 1 are going to make the big deal the big hour. only to the United States House of deal the American people want and Representatives today, but to the Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, for the need: a stronger, brighter economic fu- purpose of debate only, I yield the cus- American people to see the Republican ture. answer for economic growth and devel- tomary 30 minutes to the gentlewoman It is a progrowth bill that will over- opment vitality for the United States from New York (Ms. SLAUGHTER), my haul our Tax Code and unleash our free dear friend, who is the ranking member of America. enterprise system. It lowers tax rates Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of of the Rules Committee, pending which on businesses of every size so job cre- my time. I yield myself such time as I may con- ators can focus on hiring workers, in- Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I sume. During consideration of this res- creasing paychecks and growth. yield myself such time as I may con- olution, all time yielded is for the pur- Growth and competition are the keys sume. pose of debate only. to an expanding economy. More jobs Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman GENERAL LEAVE and increased wages in my home of for yielding me the customary 30 min- Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I ask Dallas, Texas, have allowed Texas to utes. unanimous consent that all Members lead the Nation not only in job cre- Mr. Speaker, I think America is pret- may have 5 legislative days within ation, but to make us the envy of the ty apprehensive this morning, cer- which to revise and extend their re- world. We are now going to do that for tainly those who know that two Amer- marks. the entire United States and help make ican Presidents and one Governor of The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there back home for every Member of Con- Kansas have tried trickle-down fairly objection to the request of the gen- gress competitive in the world market. recently and found it did not work at tleman from Texas? With the highest corporate tax rate all and, indeed, caused great economic There was no objection. in the industrialized world, the United harm. But we are walking into trickle- Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in States today has a broken Tax Code down once again. support of this rule and the underlying that has forced businesses to not only I think there is a word that describes legislation. move their jobs and research overseas; when you do the same thing over and This rule provides for consideration it has forced us to be able to strand bil- over again expecting a different re- of H.R. 3312, the Systemic Risk Des- lions of dollars of economic advantage sult—I won’t use that word, but I sus- ignation Improvement Act of 2017; and that should be in the United States. pect most of us know exactly what I the conference report accompanying That changes today. The Tax Cuts am talking about—particularly at this H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and JOBS Act. and Jobs Act will stop and reverse that time when this economy was really Mr. Speaker, this rule, and specifi- trend. It will encourage American com- booming, really doing well. cally the underlying conference report, panies to bring their jobs and their op- I appreciate that there were pockets is the reflection of a bicameral agree- erations back to the United States by where people were not getting jobs, and ment between the United States House lowering corporate tax rates to be com- this was pointed out by RICHARD NEAL of Representatives and the United petitive anywhere in the world at 21 frequently last evening. We have such a States Senate, whereby we took some percent and encourages U.S. businesses skills gap that jobs are going unfilled of the best ideas from across not only to bring their foreign earnings home, in America, and that is what we really our conference, but this country, and unleashing trillions of dollars in our should be working on today. from our respective ideas to make a economy. That is the future that the The fact is that corporations are tax bill that would combine them for Republican Party wants for the United awash with money. The stock market the best interests of the American peo- States of America and the free enter- is booming, and we have the lowest un- ple. prise system. employment rate in 17 years. Why in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.001 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10191 the world would we trifle with that to early version of the bill, called the those in the individual market, and 13 try a failed trickle-down policy again? members of the majority and made it million people will lose their insur- Now, emergency procedures were even more favorable to them. They se- ance—13 million. used to bring the bill up before us cured the removal of the corporate al- I want to pause on that because today. Now, what is this urgent atten- ternative minimum tax, a provision de- countless times I have stood here at tion that nobody could have any signed for the very rich to get away this very spot when there were almost amendments or anything, that it was with paying no taxes at all, and we 60 bills to repeal and replace an emergency? know some people who have done that. ObamaCare, so we have been able to in- We are not reauthorizing the Chil- The majority has been very clear sert this now in the tax bill, which will dren’s Health Insurance Program, about whom the bill is written for. One really hurt it. I have always wondered which a lot of people think is an emer- of the members of the majority, Con- why there was such a rush to take gency because it provides healthcare to gressman CHRIS COLLINS, said: ‘‘My do- healthcare away from persons, and I more than 9 million children. We are nors are basically saying, ‘Get it done guess somehow that money—obviously, not reauthorizing community health or don’t ever call me again.’’’ that Medicaid money—will pay for a centers, which serve more than 25 mil- But, Mr. Speaker, what about the av- lot of these tax cuts for the rich. lion people; and, after killing Planned erage American? What about workers All the tax cuts made for individuals Parenthood—the money—that means a and members of the middle class who will expire in 2025, but the tax cuts for lot more people will need a community can’t write big campaign checks or who corporations are permanent. That is health center. We are not renewing the don’t have an army of lawyers to scour not what we call reform. That keeps Perkins Loan Program, which many the Tax Code on their behalf? Those our Tax Code complicated by design. low-income students rely on for their are the people who are going to be Wealthy families and big corporations education. forced to pay the price for providing can continue taking advantage of a Those three programs expired on Sep- the wealthy with these tax cuts. system that they helped create. tember 30, but we are not considering Former New York City Mayor Mi- Broken promises are embedded them today. Instead, despite a record chael Bloomberg is certainly a man throughout the legislation. For years, I of 86 months of job growth—every sin- who prefers business and knows a thing have heard members of the majority gle month for 86 months we have grown or two about running a business. He re- come to the floor talking about the jobs—and an unemployment rate that cently wrote this: need to address the national debt. Ap- remains steady, the majority is ‘‘Corporations are sitting on a record parently, that was little more than a prioritizing tax cuts—not tax cuts for amount of cash reserves: nearly $2.3 talking point, because this bill ex- the middle class. trillion. That figure has been climbing plodes the deficit by $1.5 trillion and it Don’t let anybody tell you that this steadily since the recession ended in is completely unpaid for. Because of is tax reform. It isn’t. It is a moving 2009, and it is now double what it was that, Federal law requires cuts to pro- around of rates, but very specifically in 2001. The reason CEOs’’—this is an grams Americans depend on, including geared toward helping the rich with important point. ‘‘The reason CEOs a $25 billion cut to Medicare. nothing much for the middle class who aren’t investing more of their liquid as- This isn’t fear-mongering; this is work hard to make ends meet, but tax sets has little to do with the tax rate. fact. Speaker RYAN said just last week: cuts for the wealthy. The middle class CEOs aren’t waiting on a tax cut to ‘‘We’re going to have to get back next will see their money go directly to the ‘jump-start the economy’—a phrase of year.’’ Next year we are going to say: rich. politicians who have never run a com- Oh, my, we are going to have to do That is what the bill was designed to pany—or to hand out raises. It is pure something about this spending and this do. You can tell by who wrote it. There fantasy to think that the tax bill will debt, and so we will have to cut spend- is not a single Democratic fingerprint lead to significantly higher wages and ing. or breath anywhere to be found. In- growth, as Republicans have prom- What is he going to cut? The things stead, it was crafted by the lobbyists ised.’’ he has always wanted to cut. He says: who virtually run Washington under Now, that is not somebody who is an ‘‘We’re going to have to get back next the majority’s leadership. Some swamp enemy of business, and he has called year at entitlement reform, which is clearing. this bill a trillion-dollar blunder. how you tackle the debt and the def- Consider this: there are 11,000 reg- This is really a remarkable time in icit.’’ istered lobbyists in Washington, D.C. the United States, knowing that we are We have known he has wanted to do More than half of them—more than on the brink of passing a bill that will that for a long time. half of 11,000—reported working on the adversely impact virtually every So let me say this to the public issues involving taxes during the first American except the rich. The major- watching today: When this majority three quarters of this year. Each of the ity has the votes, and there is not speaks of reform, you should be very 20 organizations that hired the most much Democrats can do to stop it. worried about your future. They lobbyists to work on tax issues have re- Let me say again, I am glad the pushed this scam under the guise of so- ported lobbying specifically on tax re- Democrats are not involved in writing called reform, but it is simply a cor- form, covering the matters included in it, but it is an insult to the word ‘‘re- porate giveaway. Soon they will be this bill. form’’ to associate it with this bill. back here talking about reforming So- Now, this is the quote of all time. The American people know they are cial Security and Medicare to pay for One lobbyist admitted to The New not getting what they were promised what is going to happen here today. York Times that few Members actually by the majority. We know the Presi- Let’s call it what it really is: a sys- had any influence on the final product. dent campaigned mightily on doing tematic dismantling of the social con- He said, ‘‘You are dealing with 14 peo- away with carried interest, but it is tract. It will impact everyone from ple instead of 535 people,’’ saying spe- still in the bill. children to veterans to the disabled. It cifically, as much as possibly could be The bill hurts the middle class, chil- begins today with this bill to help the said, that the 535 people in the Con- dren, veterans, and the elderly by lim- wealthy who haven’t even asked for it. gress representing the people of the iting or outright eliminating many of Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of United States didn’t do a thing on this. the deductions that they rely on. my time. They wrote it. Under this bill, the personal exemp- Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 The New York Times has reported tion is eliminated, the mortgage inter- minutes to the distinguished gen- that the travel industry lobbyists di- est deduction is limited, the State and tleman from Missouri (Mr. LUETKE- rectly emailed those writing the bill to local tax deduction is limited mightily, MEYER), who serves on the Financial kill an amendment on tourism because and the moving expense deduction for Services Committee. Congressman a competitor who favored it has been individuals has been eliminated. Even LUETKEMEYER, from St. Elizabeth, will critical of President Trump. the Affordable Care Act’s individual talk about a piece of this bill that is Business lobbyists, after already se- mandate is eliminated. That will cause from the Financial Services Com- curing a lower corporate tax rate in an premiums to go up by 10 percent for mittee.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.018 H19DEPT1 H10192 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I percent of our committee members cuts taxes so they can increase wages thank the chairman for his steadfast voted in favor of this legislation. I hope and hiring. support on so many important finan- our House colleagues will join us in Vic, a restaurant owner in my dis- cial services issues. supporting H.R. 3312 later today. I trict, talked to me about tax cuts that Mr. Speaker, first, I want to quickly thank the chairman for his leadership would help his business. Vic said: We lend my support to the tax package and help with this initiative. pay our taxes first, we pay our people slated to be considered by the House Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I second, we pay our bills third, and then today. This legislation will bring sim- yield 1 minute to the gentleman from if there’s anything left over, we get plicity and fairness to the Tax Code. It Texas (Mr. DOGGETT). paid. will lower tax rates so individuals and Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, the Our Tax Code shouldn’t be a chal- job creators can invest in our commu- world’s biggest corporate tax dodgers lenge or impediment for business own- nities and hire more workers. I also get the most out of this bill: a 40 per- ers like Vic. want to commend Chairman BRADY and cent reduction in the corporate tax Currently, Americans pay more in the House leadership for their incred- rate and the right to bring back those taxes than they pay for food and cloth- ible work on this issue. profits they have hidden in Caribbean ing. It is time to fix this. This tax plan Secondly, Mr. Speaker, believe it or hideaways for pennies on the dollar. does that. This tax plan will help fami- not, there is another bill slated to be Another loophole will encourage jobs lies and businesses across my district considered today by this body, H.R. in America to be exported abroad, a and across America, which is why I 3312, my Systemic Risk Designation long commute to work if the job is in proudly support it, and I urge my col- Improvement Act. It will remove the Europe or in Asia. leagues to do the same. ill-conceived approach taken in Dodd- Of course, they have camouflaged Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I Frank to designate bank holding com- this corporate tax giveaway with some yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman panies as systemically important fi- changes for individuals. from Florida (Ms. CASTOR), a conferee, nancial institutions, or SIFIs. Who gets those? I believe. Under the current regulatory frame- Well, it is a Who’s Who of not you: Ms. CASTOR of Florida. Mr. Speaker, work, the designation of SIFIs is based the Trump family, real estate moguls, I thank the gentlewoman for yielding. solely on size. Any bank holding com- and their millionaire buddies. Here we are about 1 week before pany with more than $50 billion in as- Disguised as a middle-class tax relief, Christmas, and the GOP has proposed a sets is subject to enhanced regulatory this wretched bill targets the middle tax bill that Ebenezer Scrooge would supervision and a variety of special as- class with a dime of every dollar that love. It is a big ‘‘bah humbug’’ for sessments. is in the bill. What most Americans America and the families and commu- This approach fails to take into ac- will really get is more debt and the nities we represent back home. count differences in business models or coming cuts that these Republicans Their bill will raise taxes on millions risks posed to the financial system. As will insist on making to Medicare, of American middle class families a former bank regulator, I can tell you Medicaid, and educational opportunity. while showering tax breaks and new this isn’t a responsible basis for super- Tax fraud is criminal, but passing loopholes on the superrich and big cor- vision, a fact that has been recognized this fraudulent tax bill apparently is porations. It is fundamentally unfair. by Federal Reserve Chair Yellen, Sec- not. It does this with a massive increase to retary of the Treasury Mnuchin, Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 our national debt of about $2.3 trillion, former Treasury Secretary Lew, and minutes to the distinguished gen- in essence, mortgaging the future for many Members of Congress. Even Bar- tleman from Michigan (Mr. MITCHELL). our kids and grandkids and squeezing ney Frank, the former Democratic Mr. MITCHELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise out our ability to invest in medical re- chairman of the Financial Services to set the record straight on tax research and modern infrastructure. Committee and author of Dodd-Frank, form. They admit they are going to look to has said the $50 billion threshold is Opponents to this plan would have cut and raise costs on families who de- completely arbitrary and has negative Members believe that tax reform is pend on Medicaid and Medicare. It is implications on our economy. only a benefit for the wealthy or, hear- not fair. In this bill, they even go so far ing them today, a plot by the Trump as to rip health coverage away from 13 b 1045 family. That is simply partisan rhet- million Americans in another attack This legislation closely ties the safe- oric. on the ACA. In Florida, 1.7 million of guards intended in the designation of a I have long said I would only vote for my neighbors rely on the bank holding company with real risk tax reform that helps families living healthcare.gov insurance pool for af- to the system. paycheck to paycheck—families like fordable coverage. They are, in essence, My legislation would require the Fed- the one I grew up in. My dad worked on giving them a lump of coal for Christ- eral Reserve to examine not just size, the line at General Motors, and my mas. but also interconnectedness, the extent mom worked for the Salvation Army. We have got to defeat this bill. Vote of readily available substitutes, global More money in their pockets from ‘‘no’’ on this Scrooge tax bill. cross-jurisdictional activity, and com- their paycheck every week would have Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, by the plexity, criteria they already use in made a huge difference. They worked way, the gentlewoman would want to their own risk calculation analysis. hard to support their family and raise state that we are not taking this away. An inefficient regulatory structure seven children. That little bit of money There will be a 1-year transition. So, I that does not reflect the reality of the would have made a difference. Un- am sorry, but it will not be Ebenezer U.S. banking system can have real eco- doubtedly, now, it will make a dif- Scrooge at Christmas. It will be the nomic consequences. We should no ference for the American people. bright lights of a big future that lies longer let the SIFI process lead to mar- That is exactly what this plan does. ahead for us. ketplace disruption or penalize compa- It puts meaningful money back in the Mr. Speaker, I yield 5 minutes to the nies based on size alone. pockets of working families. A typical gentleman from Pennsylvania (Mr. It is time to take a more pragmatic family is projected to save over $2,000 a KELLY). approach to the SIFI designation proc- year. That may not sound like much to Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. ess and, more generally, the punitive some on the other side of the aisle, but, Speaker, I rise in strong support of the regulatory regime hitting financial in- where I grew up, that is huge. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. stitutions and their customers. It is For 57 percent of Americans who When we are in this House, the peo- time to actually manage risk and limit don’t have enough money to cover a ple’s House, I know sometimes the real threats to our financial system. $500 emergency, that money matters. message goes back and forth. Unfortu- This legislation received broad bipar- For businesses, it means investments, nately, this idea of identity politics is tisan support when it was reported by hiring, and better wages. I have talked what we have to play all the time. In- the Financial Services Committee with to business owners across my district, stead of talking to the American peo- a vote of 47–12. That means nearly 80 and they have had the same message: ple, we talk past the American people,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.020 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10193 and we try to make it so divisive that incredible opportunity to show the We are on the cusp of something they can’t see the facts. American people that we are not di- truly historic that will make life bet- I would just tell my friends on the vided as a House. We are united. We are ter for millions of people across the other side, as a child growing up, I united in doing the right thing for United States. By reforming the Tax think all of us were the same. We them because it is the right thing, and Code, we will be able to put more would sit down about this time of year, good things will happen. money in people’s pockets and create a and we would write a letter to Santa. I would like to wish all my friends on fair and simpler tax system. We would ask Santa Claus for every- both sides of the aisle and all those Under the current Tax Code, well-off thing we wanted. Then we would mail folks at home a very Merry Christmas individuals and big businesses can it off to the North Pole. and happy holidays. On Christmas higher lobbyists and lawyers to help Then we would come down on Christ- morning, I guarantee you, you may not them find loopholes and special inter- mas morning, and we would see that get everything that you wish for, but est giveaways, all at the expense of Christmas tree and all those gifts laid you are going to be so thankful for ev- working Americans. out. We never got everything we want- erything you got. With our plan, the Tax Code will be ed, but we were sure thankful for ev- Let’s pass this tax cut and jobs bill simplified, loopholes will be closed, and erything we got. and make sure America moves forward. the playing field will be leveled. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is so crit- We have labored for too long behind I want to make one thing clear: if ical. When we talk about debt, if I were the rest of the world. Individuals have you are looking for a tax plan that ben- to tell an investor: For every $1 that more take-home pay, corporations will efits the elite, the well connected, and you invest, I can return $1.90 on it, stay home. They will make invest- the 1 percent, then you need to look at they would be excited. ments in land, bricks, mortar, equip- the current Tax Code. Let me just explain something when ment, education, and in making our Mr. Speaker, my colleagues on the we talk about American families. It is workers the best workers in the world other side of the aisle are going to not Republican families, by the way, and able to compete anywhere on any great lengths to defend the current Tax not Democrat families, or Libertarian stage and win. Code that truly benefits the top 1 per- families. I am talking about American We will not only just participate, we cent. For example, the Democratic families. A typical family of four earn- will dominate, and that will trickle leader has called the Tax Cuts and Jobs ing $73,000 a year will see a cut in their down to every single American, not Act ‘‘the end of the world.’’ So, appar- taxes of $2,059. A single parent with one just red, white, and blue; as I said ear- ently, giving the hardworking people in child earning $41,000 a year will see a lier, not just Republicans or Demo- this country a tax cut is, to her, ‘‘Ar- tax reduction of $1,304. crats, but every single American. What mageddon.’’ I would ask my friends, please do not a wonderful gift for Christmas. Let’s stop with all the doomsday po- be on the wrong side of history. You Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I litical rhetoric, cut to the chase, and will have an opportunity today to do yield 1 minute to the gentleman from say what this bill really does: something that is great for America, to Kentucky (Mr. YARMUTH), the distin- It cuts taxes on hardworking Ameri- make America great again. We look at guished ranking member of the Budget cans and allows them to keep more everything that is going on, and we de- Committee. money in their pockets; cide that somehow, in this House, we Mr. YARMUTH. Mr. Speaker, I thank It supports American families by in- must be divisive and not united. When my fellow Kentucky native for yield- creasing the child tax credit and dou- we think that somehow giving people ing. bling the standard deduction; more of their own money back is the Mr. Speaker, today, my Republican It grows the American economy by wrong policy, when we think that colleagues will vote to approve a his- making the corporate Tax Code actu- somehow giving tax relief to every sin- torically unpopular bill. ally competitive with other industri- gle American is the wrong policy, when The American people don’t buy Re- alized countries; we think that the tone and tint of publican claims that the bill will help It benefits Main Street businesses in somebody’s skin, the shape of their middle class families. In fact, in sev- Alabama and across the country with a eye, where they worship, where they eral years, more than 83 million middle new 20 percent tax deduction for pass- live, what they earn is the main issue, class families will see a tax hike. through income; and we can divide them as a people, The people see that Republicans have It will lead to greater economic that is absolutely wrong. It is totally sold their souls and principles to give growth, higher wages, and more jobs, un-American. tax cuts to wealthy corporations and which is exactly what the American What is truly pro-American is mak- to pay back their billionaire donors. people sent President Trump and the ing sure that every single American They know the Republicans have aban- Republican Congress to Washington to gets to keep more of her or his money doned any claim to fiscal responsi- do. that they earn in a day, and they don’t bility. After all, nonpartisan analyses 1100 have to give it to the government. conclude this bill will add more than $1 b Nothing could be more simple. Nothing trillion to the debt. So let’s save the political hyperbole could be more easy. But the Republican leadership has a for another day. Let’s pass the Tax I would ask all my friends to please, plan to make up the difference, and it Cuts and Jobs Act, and let’s give the let’s act in the best interest of Amer- is something else. They are already American people a real Christmas ica. Forget the identity politics. Look working on legislation to make mas- present and put more money in their at what is good for those neighbors of sive cuts to Medicare, Medicaid, and pockets. yours, those friends of yours, and that other programs families need. Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I family of yours, and let’s decide where This isn’t tax reform. This isn’t help yield 1 minute to the gentleman from America is going to go. for the middle class. It is a scam, it is Minnesota (Mr. ELLISON). We have seen a dramatic rise in our fraud, and it will have dangerous, long- Mr. ELLISON. Mr. Speaker, I ask the economy since the last election. This lasting consequences for the American American people to ask themselves: tax cuts bill, this jobs bill, will allow people. Have they ever seen a Republican big- this economy to take off where all I urge my colleagues to defeat the time tax cut for the wealthy and big boats will rise. Not just red boats or rule and to reject this scandalous Re- companies ever trickle down to them? blue boats, but red, white, and blue publican donor payback legislation. If you look over the course of these boats. It will happen at the best time Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 things that they do every few years, all of the year, a time when people look to minutes to the gentleman from Ala- they do is concentrate wealth at the this House to do the right thing for the bama (Mr. BYRNE), a distinguished very top and take money out of the right reason. Good things happen when member of the Rules Committee. hands of working people. They starve we do that. Mr. BYRNE. Mr. Speaker, I thank government and make it more difficult This is an incredible opportunity in the chairman for yielding and his con- for your government—which is of, by, the history of the country. The is an tinued leadership. and for the people—to help you with

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.022 H19DEPT1 H10194 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 disaster, with Social Security, with Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposi- and it was developed without any input Medicaid, with Medicare, or with any tion to this rule and the underlying at all from Democrats because they kind of program that you need. It just bill, which really is the greatest tax never sought our input at all. starves the government of its ability to scam in America’s history. It is cruel My Republican colleagues say they make your life better. and it is coldhearted. would like to jump-start the economy. But, do you know what, Mr. Speaker? It steals from the hard-earned pay- Well, we can do just that by providing There is another thing about this checks of low- and middle-income fami- more tax cuts to working class families particular tax bill. They have been lies; lines the pockets of millionaires, whose paychecks are already stretched studying it, and there is going to be billionaires, and wealthy corporations; far too thin and who would reinvest one tremendous beneficiary of this tax and, yes, it makes it easier for corpora- that money in the local economy. bill. It is going to be Wells Fargo. tions to ship jobs overseas. Instead, this bill provides them with Wells Fargo, which will see its cor- Now, for weeks, Republicans have crumbs, and temporary crumbs at that. porate tax rate drop down to 21 percent been selling the pipe dream that tax Under this plan, corporate cuts, from the 35 percent it is now is going cuts for the rich will somehow trickle though, will be permanent. With this to make, on average, a 13 percent in- down and benefit the majority of bill, we will see an entirely different, crease in earnings per share. Americans. That is so far from the more expensive, individual Tax Code in Do you remember that big company truth. 2025, when the middle class tax cuts ex- that opened up a bunch of accounts Just yesterday, the Tax Policy Cen- pire. people didn’t need and sold people inter revealed that 83 percent of the tax This bill also balloons the national surance they didn’t need? debt, make no mistake about it. It re- They will be doing better. American breaks in this bill go to the top 1 percent. peals a critical healthcare provision families will be doing worse. that will result in 13 million Americans Vote ‘‘no’’ on this rule and vote ‘‘no’’ What is worse, 86 million middle-income households will face tax hikes becoming uninsured. on this tax bill. Now, these days, I hear a lot about and 13 million Americans will lose Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 accountability and encouraging com- healthcare coverage. minute to the gentleman from Illinois petitiveness for the American worker, Mr. Speaker, constituents in my con- (Mr. RODNEY DAVIS). which I support. But this bill, with its gressional district are afraid of their Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. novel loopholes and flawed trickle- futures because this tax scam is going Speaker, I thank Chairman SESSIONS down philosophy, does neither. It is a to severely devastate families in Cali- for his leadership and for yielding. wasted opportunity. Mr. Speaker, we are about to make fornia. Nearly 2 million Californians I believe that it is not too late, but history this week by delivering a tax stand to lose their State and local de- the way this bill is written, I cannot cut to families at every income level. ductions if Republicans succeed. support it. This was written for cor- The math clearly shows that the av- This is truly a slap in the face to the porations and the wealthy 1 percent in erage family of four, making the coun- American people. Republicans have al- this country. It was not written for a try’s median income of $73,000, will re- ready and have always, yes, made it strong middle class. We can do better. ceive a $2,000 tax cut. clear that this tax scam is a Trojan Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Yet many of my friends on the other horse for Republicans to take an axe to oppose this bill. side of the aisle continue to say this Medicare, Social Security, and pro- Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I con- bill is going to raise taxes on millions grams that lift people out of poverty. tinue to reserve the balance of my of middle class families. That is just But the public is not going to let them time. not true, unless you are referring to get away with this. They will remem- Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I 2025, when these tax cuts expire and we ber who is shattering their lives. yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman go back to the status quo. This bill is ruthless. It makes clear from Texas (Ms. JACKSON LEE). Why is there an expiration date? that Republicans only value the lives Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, a Because many of the very same peo- of the wealthy and their donors. That bill that is done in the dark of night, in ple, using this as a talking point is whose side they are on. the midst of a crisis like the lack of against this bill, are the reason they Well, Democrats are on the side of Perkins funding for our students, the sunset. If we could get 60 votes in the middle- and low-income families who Senate, requiring just a few of my lack of funding for CHIP and for are working hard just to make ends healthcare for millions of Americans— friends on the other side of the aisle to meet, to take care of their children, to work with us, we could make this tax yet our friends on the other side go make better wages, and who are fight- without shame in passing the GOP tax cut for middle class families perma- ing for a better future. nent right now. They have chosen not scam bill. Mr. Speaker, we should oppose this In the Houston Chronicle, they aptly to work with us. bill and this rule. It is really a raw deal I will be giving my friends on the put winners and losers, and they aptly for the American people. The public other side of the aisle another chance put at the top of the winners The knows whose side we are on, and the to support tax cuts for hardworking Trump Organization. This is a Christ- public knows whose side that the Re- families in their district. I will be in- mas gift for the Trump family—no one publicans are on. troducing a bill to make the individual else—with huge cuts to the uninsured, Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I would tax cuts permanent. to commuters, and to homeowners in I am not sure there is anyone who like to, if I could, advise the gentle- high-tax States. This is not a fair dis- truly believes that a future Congress woman that, to balance out the time, I tribution of funds, and it certainly is would let them expire, given the fact am going to allow her to have the next going to impact those who are still suf- that we have extended the Bush tax couple of speakers so that we can equal fering from hurricanes all over the Na- cuts in the past. the time. tion. Nonetheless, I am introducing this Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of So I ask the question: Why the rush? bill to ensure these tax cuts will be in my time. Why the rush to give tax cuts to the place for middle class families this Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I top 1 percent, and increasing taxes on year, and to make sure they are here to yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman millions of middle class Americans, to stay. from Rhode Island (Mr. LANGEVIN). pay for a permanent tax? Mr. Speaker, I hope each and every Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I The American people have it right: a one of my colleagues will sign on as a thank the gentlewoman for yielding. permanent tax cut for the rich. This is cosponsor. Mr. Speaker, today we are debating the worst catastrophic bill that has Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I the final version of the Republican tax ever been passed by the Members of the yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman bill, which I cannot support. Republican Party in the House of Rep- from California (Ms. LEE). This bill was flawed from the start. resentatives. It is a shame. Ms. LEE. Mr. Speaker, I thank the First of all, it was never deficit neutral Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I con- gentlewoman for yielding and for her and there was never a bipartisan nego- tinue to reserve the balance of my tremendous leadership. tiation. This is a Republican-only bill, time.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.024 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10195 Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I Well, now we are here on another publicans who are their comrades in yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from major tax bill. The problem this time arms who are rigging the game against Vermont (Mr. WELCH). around is that there is no bipartisan- the middle class. Mr. WELCH. Mr. Speaker, I thank ship. Senator ORRIN HATCH, who wrote this the gentlewoman for yielding. Why is that, Mr. Speaker? bill, said: ‘‘I have a rough time wanting We do need tax reform. We need tax It is not because the Republicans to spend billions and billions and tril- reform that we all described in the be- don’t want to be bipartisan. It is be- lions of dollars to help people who ginning as something that would help cause the Democratic leadership this won’t help themselves, won’t lift a fin- the middle class, that would simplify time around has just said no. ger, and expect the Federal Govern- taxes, and would be revenue neutral. This tax bill is a good bill. ment to do everything.’’ This bill, sometimes described by its The distinguished gentleman from This is the ugly truth of this Repub- authors as doing those things, accom- Vermont who just spoke is correct in lican tax bill. And I say to Senator plishes none of those things. that it is not revenue neutral. But, Mr. HATCH: ‘‘The Federal Government has Now, first of all, for the middle class, Speaker, revenues are at an all-time taken good care of you. It is about the wages have been stagnant. The jobs high. We are going to raise more great people of this Nation that we are people are getting aren’t paying the money this year than we have ever not taking care of.’’ bills. We know the biggest challenge raised before at the Federal level. Let That is what this vote is about. This we face is increasing investment, in- me repeat that: raise more money than is where their values are. They are on creasing wages, and increasing secu- we have ever raised before at the Fed- display. The final bill is even worse rity. eral level. than we feared. It lowers the tax rate There are some benefits in this bill Isn’t it time to give hardworking for the wealthiest people even more. It for the middle class, but let’s get real. Americans a little of that money back? repeals a key element of the Affordable Those benefits are tiny and they are That is what this bill does. It cuts Care Act, kicking 13 million people off temporary. rates for every working American. Let their insurance, raising premiums by 10 If you are a Vermont family, if you me repeat that: it cuts rates for every percent. are lucky—we get hit with the SALT working American. Don’t let them fool you on the child deduction loss—you might make a cou- No matter what your tax rate is tax credit. It is a shameful proposal. It ple hundred bucks. today, under this bill, it is going to be shuts out military families, rural fami- But at what price? lower if you are an individual. If you lies, large families, minimum wage Once these benefits expire, 83 percent are a corporation, it is going to be workers, those with the youngest chil- of the benefits of the individual tax lower. If you are one of these dren. If you make $400,000 a year, you rate goes to the top 1 percent. passthroughs, it is going to be lower. get a $4,000 child tax credit. If you At what price? Every American who is paying taxes make $14,500 a year, you get $75. Who $2 trillion added to the deficit. today is going to pay less taxes start- are they fooling with this bill? Let me tell you this: Vermont fami- ing January 1, 2018. That is a good deal. And you know what, my colleague, lies, hard-earning families, working That is a good deal. We are cutting just a minute ago, said: Yes, those in families, they would like a tax cut, but taxes across the board for every work- this Chamber will benefit. You bet. not one that their children and grand- ing American. We are eligible for the child tax cred- children are going to have to pay. That We repeal the individual mandate it, but low-income families are not. is unconscionable. under ObamaCare. This bill fails the middle class. It bene- What about these corporate tax cuts? fits the richest 1 percent. Vote against 1115 We want simplification, so we are b it as I will. competitive. There is a 40 percent re- Unfortunately, it doesn’t kick in Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 duction for multinational corporations. until 2019, but we still repeal that. minutes to the gentleman from But, in this bill, is there any cor- This is a good bill. It is a historic Lawrenceville, Georgia (Mr. WOODALL), responding requirement that they start bill. It is a bill that everybody in this the Rules Committee designee to the reinvesting in America? Chamber will benefit from, regardless Budget Committee and the gentleman Exactly the opposite. of whether you vote for it or vote who sits with esteem on the Rules There is a lower tax rate for compa- against it. So when the time comes Committee. nies that invest abroad, send jobs this afternoon to vote ‘‘yes’’ or ‘‘no,’’ I Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I thank abroad, rather than invest at home. am voting ‘‘yes’’ for America. I am vot- the chairman for yielding me the time. That is outrageous. ing ‘‘yes’’ for America’s future. I am We were in the Rules Committee last And what happens because of this voting ‘‘yes’’ for every working Amer- night, Mr. Speaker, and we were having deficit? ican who is paying taxes today. Let’s this same kind of conversation. We Medicare is going to be cut directly put more money back in their pocket. were going through the list one by one as a result of this tax bill. The infra- Let’s double the rate of growth for the by one of all the families and how folks structure plan we all want is economy. Let’s put more Americans at were going to benefit, about the chil- evaporating. work. Let’s show some faith in the dren and graduate students, folks fac- Defeat this rule and defeat this bill. American people, vote ‘‘yes.’’ ing medical challenges. We went Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I through one by one by one and talked minutes to the gentleman from Texas yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman about all the folks who were going to (Mr. BARTON). from Connecticut (Ms. DELAURO). benefit from this great tax cut, and it (Mr. BARTON asked and was given Ms. DELAURO. Mr. Speaker, the big- was powerful. permission to revise and extend his re- gest economic challenge of our time is But I was reminded, Mr. Speaker, marks.) that too many people are in jobs that that when we started this conversa- Mr. BARTON. Mr. Speaker, I am one do not pay them enough to live on. tion, it wasn’t even a tax cut conversa- of the few Members that was here back Wages are not keeping up with rising tion. It was an economic growth con- in 1986 when we had the last major tax costs. Too many families struggle versation, Mr. Speaker. It was an eco- cut before this body. The President was today to make ends meet. Some have nomic growth conversation. Where we Ronald Reagan and the Speaker of the two or three jobs. They can’t afford have ended up is there are going to be House was Tip O’Neill. They worked to- healthcare. They can’t afford—some tax benefits for every single working gether on a bipartisan basis to cut can’t afford to put food on the table. family in the country, but where we taxes across the board. The result was They don’t take vacations, and their started was how do we get those wages the economic growth of the late 1980s retirement is in jeopardy. for working families up? How do we get and the early 1990s, up until the early But it is the big corporations, the job creation up? How do we get Amer- 2000s, when we had 9/11. It is one of the millionaires and the billionaires, who ica growing, not at these stagnant best votes that I have ever taken as a are writing the rules to make govern- rates of Obama years, but back at pow- Member of this body. ment work for them, and it is the Re- erful rates as we saw in the Bush years,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.025 H19DEPT1 H10196 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 as we saw in the Clinton years, as we Rules Committee. We didn’t even come Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, I thank saw in the Reagan years? That was the close. the gentlewoman for yielding. I rise in conversation. Mr. Speaker, let me speak on the PQ. strong hope that my colleagues on the Mr. Speaker, if we had historically We must protect middle class families other side of the aisle will come to normal economic growth—not fan- against the disastrous Republican tax their senses and defeat this job-killing tastic economic growth—historically plan, and if we defeat the previous bill that will explode the deficit and normal economic growth, we would question, I am going to offer an amend- hurt working people. have a balanced budget in this country ment that will prohibit any legislation It is important to note 83 percent of today. There is an economic con- from being considered on the floor that the benefits of the cuts in this bill go sequence of economic failure. What we limits or repeals the State and local to the top 1 percent; 86 million hard- have done in this bill, Mr. Speaker, by tax deduction or repeals the ACA’s in- working middle class families will ac- allowing businesses to expense their individual mandate. tually see a tax increase. Of course, we vestment, allows them to make their Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous con- need to reform our Tax Code, but we employees more productive on day one. sent to insert the text of my amend- need to do it in a way that raises That is going to have a powerful im- ment in the RECORD, along with extra- wages, produces good-paying jobs, and pact, not just on employee wages, Mr. neous material, immediately prior to makes sure the people have a brighter Speaker, but on economic growth the vote on the previous question. future. across the entire country. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there This does just the opposite. It ran- This bill is not about should we pay objection to the request of the gentle- sacks Medicare and Medicaid. It cre- taxes. We must. This bill is about how woman from New York? ates an unsustainable burden for the we pay taxes. Can we do it better? Does There was no objection. next generation, and it is very, very Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I America need to be the worst in the important to recognize it is not going yield 1 minute to the gentleman from world? Or can we be first in the world? to create jobs. This is trickle-down ec- New York (Mr. ENGEL), the ranking We are answering that question onomics. Let everyone at the top hold member on the Committee on Foreign today. We are answering that question on to all of their money, and it will Affairs. today. And with every single vote a Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I thank my trickle down to the rest of us. Member in this Chamber casts, it is not friend from New York. You know, I It doesn’t work. This is a failed eco- about is everything in this bill exactly have been here a long time now, and I nomic policy. This does not support the way you would have crafted it. I as- have to say: This is one of the worst strengthening the middle class. We sure you, Mr. Speaker, for me, it is not. pieces of legislation I have ever seen; need to defeat this bill and reform our The question is: Does this bill move us one of the worst processes I have ever Tax Code in a way that will really pro- in a direction of competitiveness seen. You know, when you were a kid, mote job growth, that will raise wages, across the globe? It does. The question and you went to high school and col- that will ensure working families can is: Does this bill focus on wages and lege, and you learned how a bill be- get ahead. There are millions of Ameri- growing those wages? It does. The comes a law, well, take that and throw cans tonight who will go to bed wor- question is: In this opportunity that we it out because the Republican leader- rying about how they are going to take have, did we take it or did we waste it? ship here doesn’t want to work with care of their family; how they are We haven’t answered that question Democrats. going to make ends meet. This bill will yet, Mr. Speaker, but I believe that The reason no Democrats are work- make that problem worse. I urge my later on today we will. We are going to ing with you is you shut us out. You colleagues to defeat it. answer in the affirmative. Give us a won’t let us have any input. You won’t Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I con- chance. Should it have taken us 31 do anything with us, and this is not the tinue to reserve my time. years to get to this place? It should way to govern, absolutely not. You Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I not. Can we make a difference together know, someone near and dear to me yield myself such time as I may con- today for the country? Yes, we can. It once said: The Republican Party is the sume. will be a lasting difference. It will be a party of the rich person, and the Demo- Mr. Speaker, the Members of the ma- powerful difference. It is going to be cratic Party is the party of the work- jority have lined up today to tell the one of the proudest votes I have had an ing person. American people how great this bill is. opportunity to take in this Chamber, If that was ever true, it certainly is If that is true, why were they afraid of and I appreciate the opportunity. true today. Rich people do really, real- holding a single hearing or listening to Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman ly well. Middle class and the poor peo- a single outside expert? for his leadership on this. ple don’t do well at all. In fact, the cor- The 1986 tax bill had over 30 hearings Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I porate tax breaks last for years and and 430 witnesses and took well over a yield myself such time as I may con- years and years, and the other tax year; this one about three 3 months— sume. breaks for the middle class expire in 5 written, apparently, by lobbyists. Mr. Speaker, this has been the most years. This helps the rich; it hurts the There wasn’t a single hearing held on awful process. Mr. BARTON wanted to poor; it helps the middle class. the text of this bill, not one. It was know why the Democrats weren’t in- Even Ronald Reagan tried to be bi- jammed through the Ways and Means volved. We weren’t involved in any of partisan and have Democrats work Committee where our amendments, the it, for heaven’s sake. We almost didn’t with him. And whatever happened to Democrats’, were blocked. get to see a copy of what they had. my friends on the Republican side, lec- Democratic Members had under an But I think the debate we have had tures about fiscal responsibility? This hour to review the final text before here today must be very similar to the blows a hole in the budget. It is irre- voting. It was rushed to the Rules one we had in the Reagan administra- sponsible. My State of New York, Committee a day earlier than an- tion. And David Stockman, who talked which is a donor State, is getting nounced with only 4 hours’ notice, so Ronald Reagan into trickle down, he screwed. That is all I can say. nobody had any chance to read, and the says today it didn’t work. It didn’t Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I would majority there blocked 140 bipartisan work then. It didn’t work for President like to advise the gentlewoman that we amendments. Bush. It didn’t work for the Governor are through with our speakers, that I This has been a secretive process on from Kansas, whose name escapes me will be closing, so I ask that she go both sides of the Capitol. Senators re- for the moment. Very recently, it ahead and consume her time. ceived the text of the final bill also didn’t work, and it isn’t going to work Mr. Speaker, I continue to reserve within an hour of the vote. The nearly this time. the balance of my time. 500-page bill in the Senate was riddled So I am really appalled that we are Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I with errors, last-minute edits, and il- doing it. But I have to say that this have one more speaker. legible handwritten changes in the was the worst process that any of us Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the margins. There was a single meeting of have ever been through. We operated gentleman from Rhode Island (Mr. a conference committee between the on Thomas Jefferson’s manual in the CICILLINE). House and Senate. Members there were

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.029 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10197 prohibited from offering amendments again also, making Americans not only strong and unyielding opposition to the rule or even seeing the negotiated text. proud of their country, but giving them and the Conference Report to H.R. 1, the so- Imagine that, you couldn’t even see an economic opportunity, and that is called ‘‘Tax Cut and Jobs Act,’’ which more what they were supposed to vote on. what the Republican Party is doing accurately should be called the ‘‘Republican The Senators and Representatives sat here. Tax Scam Act.’’ around the table for show while the We have heard not only from MIKE There are four reasons why I oppose this press reported that the deal, even be- KELLY, Congressman KELLY, who spoke cruel and immoral $1.7 trillion tax giveaway to fore the meeting had started, had al- about making America better, making wealthy corporations: ready been reached. The Democrats the free enterprise system better, we 1. The GOP tax scam raises taxes on tens had no say at all. heard from Congressman WOODALL of millions of middle class households and dis- House Ways and Means Chairman about being in 24th place, which is tributes the largest tax cuts to those in the top KEVIN BRADY says he is proud of this what America is, 24th in the world in 1 percent causing $1.7 trillion to be added to process, but it will take a separate bill doing business in a friendly environ- the debt; just to correct some of the errors here. ment. 2. It eliminates or reduces tax benefits that And there is no reason to believe he We cannot survive in 24th place—24th directly benefit the middle class at every stage would include Democrats in that proc- place—by keeping the current Tax of life; ess either. It would be another partisan Code we have, where over and over and 3. It results in 13 million fewer Americans effort. over we see not only companies moving with health insurance coverage; and Let me remind everyone watching to other locations within the United 4. And it adds over $2 trillion dollars to def- that we used emergency procedures to States of America, but moving off- icit spending, which triggers statutory meet this onerous bill. In this Con- shore, stranding dollars, and jobs going PAYGO’s automatic spending cuts to manda- gress, disaster relief is not an emer- with that. tory programs such as Medicare, which along gency. Isn’t that amazing? Funding What we are attempting to do in this would see a $25 billion cut. CHIP and community health centers is bill is to make America number one, Instead of doing tax reform the Republicans not an emergency. Disaster funding is make America and the American work- have found new ways for the wealthy who use er number one again. We are going to not an emergency. But rushing these tax accountants and lawyers to further game make the big deal the big deal for peo- tax cuts to the wealthiest among us is the tax payer system by adding new loop ple wherever you live in the United an emergency. holes that are only for the corporations and States. We are going to offer an oppor- This bill, which has no deadline, is the wealthy. tunity for you to not only be taxed their top priority, while real emer- Corporations receive a 14 percentage point less, but that business that is in your gencies are being ignored, and it is reduction in their statutory tax rate, from 35 city, your State that proudly they rep- shameful. I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on the percent to 21 percent, the largest one-time resent their hometown, they will have previous question on the rule and the rate reduction in U.S. history. the opportunity to now be competitive. Republicans designed this tax scam to ben- bill. Forget this, ‘‘Oh, Republicans want efit the wealthiest in our country and now they Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance to move jobs offshore.’’ That is what are working as hard as possible to make sure of my time. we are sick and tired of hearing. We are Americans are too busy looking the other way Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I yield sick and tired of hearing that jobs and to notice. myself such time as I may consume. investments go overseas. I have to tell them that it is too late, the Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentle- They are coming back to America be- American public sees what you are doing and woman from New York, the ranking cause this places America, instead of they are not going to have any of it. member of the Rules Committee, and being the bottom wrung in terms of The Republican Tax Scam doubles the dol- really each of the members of the taxes, as the highest in the world. We lar amount at which the estate tax, currently Rules Committee for their diligence in are going to go to where we are the affecting only the wealthiest 2 in 100 families. working yesterday for a long period of most competitive, where the American It lifts the level at which the alternative min- time. worker will stand a chance to stamp imum tax (AMT) would kick in, while dropping As the Rules Committee met last ‘‘Made in America’’ on those items the top tax rate from the current 39.6 percent night, not only to consider this, but that they want, made from my home- to 37 percent. really to offer full and open debate, an town, the pride of authorship of the Mr. Speaker, where are the promises made opportunity was given for the gen- middle class of this country, pride of to working Americans to give them a break. tleman from Massachusetts (Mr. NEAL) authorship of knowing not just is my Americans are not fooled; they know trickle- to come and speak representing the country going to get better, but my down economics has never worked, and they Democratic Party; the gentleman from community and I will be better. see right through this phony tax plan and rec- Illinois (Mr. ROSKAM), to come and rep- It is about financial responsibility, ognize it for the scam that it is. resent the Ways and Means Committee; but it is also about the integrity of the What people may not understand is they will and the distinguished gentleman from free enterprise system. The free enter- not have to wait until 2027 to see the pain and The Woodlands, Texas (Mr. BRADY), the prise system is the greatest economic misery that this tax cut will cause. chairman of the Ways and Means Com- system in the history of the world. It Congress has established mechanisms in mittee, to come and thoughtfully ar- will continue to produce great and bet- rules that require pay-fors when budget deficit ticulate not only the ideas behind this ter things for so many people. spending reaching astronomical levels, like bill but what we are going to do. But, Mr. Speaker, the Democratic what we have in this bill’s wholesale giveaway Party tried to kill the free enterprise b 1130 of taxpayer money to Corporations and the system when they came after the free wealth—it is called PAYGO. Mr. Speaker, it is true that what we enterprise system. We knew it and we The PAYGO compels new spending or tax are doing is taking what was done by saw it, and the world saw it, too. 1.2 changes not to add to the federal debt. President Obama and a Democratic percent GDP growth as opposed to, PAYGO requires that new spending must ei- majority in the House and the Senate now, with a new viewpoint about mak- ther be ‘‘budget neutral’’ or offset with cuts to that raised taxes a trillion dollars, ing America great, we have not only existing programs. that, in 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2011, really doubled GDP, but we have added, net, 1 So the Tax cut that corporations will be get- raided the American people by raising million jobs. If the summer had not ting today, will cost the American workers taxes on them, by causing an economic produced the storms it had, no telling dearly in next year when the Budget Com- downturn, a GDP rate of 1.2 percent— what our job growth would be. mittee must draft a budget that will have to an assault on not just the taxpayer, This is what lies ahead, and this is slash domestic programs to pay for these but on the free enterprise system. what this Republican bill does. For cuts. It is true that we promised this last that reason, I urge my colleagues to Mr. Speaker, as you may know, my con- election, through the election of Don- support this rule and the underlying stituents and others in Texas are still strug- ald Trump, to Make America Great bill on this conference report. gling to recover from the devastation caused Again. Part of making America great Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a by Hurricane Harvey, the worst storm ever to again means making Americans great member of the Budget Committee, I rise in make landfall in the continental United States.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.031 H19DEPT1 H10198 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 Two weeks ago, nearly 8,000 of them took 1. teachers who purchase supplies for their This tax scam is not a revenue policy adapt- time out of their busy schedules to join me in classroom; ed for the real world that real Americans live a tele-town hall to discuss the tax scheme that 2. moving expenses to take a new job and in but a fantasy resting on the monstrous be- has been rushed to the floor for a vote by the taxes employer-provided moving expenses; or lief that the wealthy have too little money and Republican leadership in the hope of passing 3. Dependent care assistance, making it that poor, working, and middle-class families it before the American people learn its insid- harder for families to afford day care, nursery have too much. ious details. school, or care for aging parents? Our Republican friends continue to cling to My constituents understand and let me This Republican tax scam jeopardizes the fantasy belief that their tax cuts for the rich know that they believe it is important that the American innovation and competitiveness by will pay for themselves despite all precedent United States has a tax system that is fair, eliminating the deduction for student loan in- to the contrary and evidence that their tax balanced, smart, and provides the resources terest, which affects 12 million borrowers, and scheme is projected by experts to lose be- and opportunities to allow all Americans to cuts total education assistance by more than tween $3 trillion and $7 trillion. reach their potential. $64 billion. Mr. Speaker, in evaluating the merits of a And by margins exceeding 90 percent, they Under the extraordinary leadership of Presi- taxing system, it is not enough to subject it reject: dent Obama and the determined efforts of or- only to the test of fiscal responsibility. 1. Any cuts to Medicare or Medicaid to fi- dinary Americans, we pulled our way out from To keep faith with the nation’s past, to be nance tax cuts for wealthy corporations and under the worst of the foreclosure crisis when fair to the nation’s present, and to safeguard the top 1 percent; the housing bubble burst in 2007. the nation’s future, the plan must also pass a 2. Eliminating the mortgage interest deduc- Inexplicably, Republicans are now cham- ‘‘moral test.’’ tion; pioning a tax scheme that will make the The Republican tax bill fails both of these 3. Eliminating the deductibility of state and homes of average Americans less valuable standards. I strongly oppose the Conference Report to local taxes; because deductions for mortgage interest and H.R. 1, the ‘‘Republican Tax Scam Act,’’ and 4. Eliminating existing deductions for stu- property taxes are much less valuable than urge all Members to join me in voting against dent loan interest or making taxable college under current law. this reckless, cruel, and heartless proposal endowment funds or college fellowships ex- A tax plan that reduces home values, as that will do nothing to improve the lives or penses. this one does, puts pressure on states and well-being of middle and working class fami- Mr. Speaker, my constituents, and Ameri- towns to collect revenues they depend on to lies, and the poor and vulnerable ‘caught in cans across the country, oppose this unfair fund schools, roads, and vital public re- the tentacles of circumstance.’ Republican tax giveaway because nearly half sources. Mr. Speaker, an estimated 2.8 million Texas The material previously referred to of the $1.7 trillion tax cut goes to just the top households deduct state and local taxes with by Ms. SLAUGHTER is as follows: one percent. an average deduction of $7,823 in 2015. AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 667 OFFERED BY In fact, the average annual tax cut for the But this is not the end of the bad news that MS. SLAUGHTER top one-tenth of one percent is $320,000; for will be delivered were this tax scam to be- At the end of the resolution, add the fol- the top one percent it is $62,000, and for come law, not by a long shot. lowing new sections: those earning $1 million a year it is $68,000. The proposed elimination of the personal ‘‘SEC. 5. POINT OF ORDER AGAINST ANY TAX BILL THAT RAISES TAXES ON MID- Nearly 25 percent of the tax cut goes to exemption will harm millions of Texans by tak- households in just the top one-tenth of one DLE CLASS FAMILIES BY ELIMI- ing away the $4,050 deduction for each tax- NATING OR LIMITING THE STATE percent, who make at least $5 million a year payer and claimed dependent; in 2015, rough- AND LOCAL TAX DEDUCTION. (2027). ly 9.3 million dependent exemptions were (a) POINT OF ORDER.—It shall not be in While super-wealthy corporations and indi- claimed in the Lone Star State. order in the House of Representatives to con- viduals are reaping windfalls, millions of mid- Equally terrible is that this Republican tax sider any bill, joint resolution, motion, dle-class and working families will see their amendment, amendment between the scam drastically reduces the Earned Income Houses, or conference report that repeals or taxes go up: Tax Credit, which encourages work for 2.7 mil- 1. 13 million households face a tax increase limits the State and Local Tax Deduction (26 lion low-income individuals in Texas, helping U.S.C. § 164). next year. them make ends meet with an average credit (b) WAIVER IN THE HOUSE.—It shall not be 2. 45 million households face a tax increase of $2,689. in order in the House of Representatives to in 2027. The EITC and the Child Tax Credit lift about consider a rule or order that waives the ap- 3. 29 million households (21 percent) earn- 1.2 million Texans, including 663,000 children, plication of subsection (a). As disposition of ing less than $l00,000 a year see a tax in- out of poverty each year. a point of order under this subsection, the crease. So to achieve their goal of giving more and Chair shall put the question of consideration with respect to the rule or order, as applica- On average, families earning up to $86,000 more to the haves and the ‘‘have mores,’’ our annually would see a $794 increase in their ble. The question of consideration shall be Republican friends are willing to betray sen- debatable for 10 minutes by the Member ini- tax liability, a significant burden on families iors, children, the most vulnerable and needy, tiating the point of order and for 10 minutes struggling to afford child care and balance and working and middle-class families. by an opponent, but shall otherwise be de- their checkbook. The $5.4 trillion cuts in program investments cided without intervening motion except one It is shocking, but not surprising, that under that will be required to pay for this tax give- that the House adjourn.’’ this Republican tax scam, the total value of away to wealthy corporations and individuals ‘‘SEC. 6. POINT OF ORDER AGAINST ANY TAX tax cuts for just the top one percent is more BILL THAT REPEALS THE INDI- will fall most heavily on low-income families, VIDUAL MANDATE UNDER THE PA- than the entire tax cut for the lower 95 percent students struggling to afford college, seniors, TIENT PROTECTION AND AFFORD- of earners. and persons with disabilities. ABLE CARE ACT. Put another way, those earning more than America will not be made great by financing (a) POINT OF ORDER.—It shall not be in $912,000 a year will get more in tax cuts than a $1.7 trillion tax cut for the rich by stealing order in the House of Representatives to con- 180 million households combined. $1.8 trillion from Medicare and Medicaid, sider any bill, joint resolution, motion, The core of this Republican tax scheme is abandoning seniors and families in need, de- amendment, amendment between the a massive tax cut from 35 percent 20 percent Houses, or conference report that repeals or priving students of realizing a dream to attend limits the individual mandate under the Pa- corporations, but that is not the only way that college without drowning in debt, or tient Protection and Affordable Care Act (26 the wealthy are rewarded. disinvesting in the working families. U.S.C. § 500A). (b) WAIVER IN THE HOUSE.—It The massive tax cuts for corporations are America will not be positioned to compete shall not be in order in the House of Rep- permanent but temporary for working and mid- and win in the global, interconnected, and dig- resentatives to consider a rule or order that dle-class families. ital economy by slashing funding for scientific waives the application of subsection (a). As Another immoral aspect of this terrible tax research, the arts and humanities, job retrain- disposition of a point of order under this sub- scam is that it abandons families that face nating, and clean energy just to pay for a tax cut section, the Chair shall put the question of ural disasters or high medical costs by repeal- to corporations and individuals who do not consideration with respect to the rule or order, as applicable. The question of consid- ing deductions for casualty losses and medical even need it. eration shall be debatable for 10 minutes by expenses. Mr. Speaker, the tax scheme presented the Member initiating the point of order and Mr. Speaker, in what universe does it make here by Republicans is not a plan but a scam for 10 minutes by an opponent, but shall oth- any sense to eliminate, as this bill would, a that represents a betrayal of our values as a erwise be decided without intervening mo- deduction for: nation. tion except one that the House adjourn.’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.017 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10199 THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Thompson (PA) Walden Wittman IT REALLY MEANS question is on ordering the previous Thornberry Walker Womack Tiberi Walorski Woodall This vote, the vote on whether to order the question. Tipton Walters, Mimi Yoder previous question on a special rule, is not The question was taken; and the Trott Weber (TX) Yoho merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- Speaker pro tempore announced that Turner Webster (FL) Young (AK) Upton Wenstrup dering the previous question is a vote the ayes appeared to have it. Young (IA) against the Republican majority agenda and Valadao Westerman Zeldin a vote to allow the Democratic minority to Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, on Wagner Williams Walberg Wilson (SC) offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about that I demand the yeas and nays. what the House should be debating. The yeas and nays were ordered. NAYS—187 Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Adams Gallego Neal House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- ant to clause 8 and clause 9 of rule XX, Aguilar Garamendi Nolan scribes the vote on the previous question on this 15-minute vote on ordering the Barraga´ n Gomez Norcross the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the previous question will be followed by 5- Bass Gonzalez (TX) O’Halleran consideration of the subject before the House Beatty Gottheimer O’Rourke being made by the Member in charge.’’ To minute votes on: Bera Green, Al Pallone defeat the previous question is to give the Adopting the resolution, if ordered, Beyer Green, Gene Panetta and Bishop (GA) Grijalva Pascrell opposition a chance to decide the subject be- Blumenauer Gutie´rrez Payne fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s Suspending the rules and passing Blunt Rochester Hanabusa Pelosi ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that H.R. 4254. Bonamici Hastings Perlmutter ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- The vote was taken by electronic de- Boyle, Brendan Heck Peters F. Higgins (NY) Peterson mand for the previous question passes the vice, and there were—yeas 233, nays control of the resolution to the opposition’’ Brady (PA) Himes Pingree in order to offer an amendment. On March 187, not voting 11, as follows: Brown (MD) Hoyer Polis [Roll No. 688] Brownley (CA) Huffman Price (NC) 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- Bustos Jackson Lee Quigley fered a rule resolution. The House defeated YEAS—233 Butterfield Jayapal Raskin the previous question and a member of the Abraham Foxx McCarthy Capuano Jeffries Rice (NY) opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, Aderholt Frelinghuysen McCaul Carbajal Johnson (GA) Rosen ´ asking who was entitled to recognition. Allen Gaetz McClintock Cardenas Johnson, E. B. Roybal-Allard Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R-Illinois) said: Amash Gallagher McHenry Carson (IN) Kaptur Ruiz ‘‘The previous question having been refused, Amodei Garrett McKinley Cartwright Keating Ruppersberger Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) Rush the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- Arrington Gianforte McMorris Babin Gibbs Rodgers Castro (TX) Khanna Ryan (OH) gerald, who had asked the gentleman to Chu, Judy Kihuen Sa´ nchez yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to Bacon Gohmert McSally Banks (IN) Goodlatte Meadows Cicilline Kildee Sarbanes the first recognition.’’ Barletta Gosar Meehan Clark (MA) Kilmer Schakowsky The Republican majority may say ‘‘the Barr Gowdy Messer Clay Kind Schiff vote on the previous question is simply a Barton Granger Mitchell Cleaver Krishnamoorthi Schneider vote on whether to proceed to an immediate Bergman Graves (GA) Moolenaar Clyburn Kuster (NH) Schrader Biggs Graves (LA) Mooney (WV) Cohen Langevin Scott, David vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] Connolly Larsen (WA) Serrano has no substantive legislative or policy im- Bilirakis Graves (MO) Mullin Bishop (MI) Griffith Newhouse Cooper Larson (CT) Sewell (AL) plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what Bishop (UT) Grothman Noem Correa Lawrence Shea-Porter they have always said. Listen to the Repub- Black Guthrie Norman Costa Lawson (FL) Sherman lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative Blackburn Handel Nunes Courtney Lee Sinema Process in the United States House of Rep- Blum Harper Olson Crist Levin Sires resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s Bost Harris Palazzo Crowley Lewis (GA) Slaughter Brady (TX) Hartzler Palmer Cuellar Lieu, Ted Smith (WA) how the Republicans describe the previous Cummings Lipinski Soto question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- Brat Hensarling Paulsen Brooks (AL) Herrera Beutler Pearce Davis (CA) Loebsack Speier though it is generally not possible to amend Brooks (IN) Hice, Jody B. Perry DeFazio Lofgren Suozzi the rule because the majority Member con- Buck Higgins (LA) Pittenger DeGette Lowenthal Swalwell (CA) trolling the time will not yield for the pur- Bucshon Hill Poe (TX) Delaney Lowey Takano pose of offering an amendment, the same re- Budd Holding Poliquin DeLauro Lujan Grisham, Thompson (CA) Burgess Hollingsworth Posey DelBene M. Thompson (MS) sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- ´ Byrne Huizenga Ratcliffe Demings Lujan, Ben Ray Titus vious question on the rule . . . When the mo- DeSaulnier Lynch Tonko tion for the previous question is defeated, Calvert Hultgren Reed Carter (GA) Hunter Reichert Deutch Maloney, Torres control of the time passes to the Member Carter (TX) Hurd Renacci Dingell Carolyn B. Tsongas who led the opposition to ordering the pre- Chabot Issa Rice (SC) Doggett Maloney, Sean Vargas vious question. That Member, because he Cheney Jenkins (KS) Roby Doyle, Michael Matsui Veasey then controls the time, may offer an amend- Coffman Jenkins (WV) Roe (TN) F. McCollum Vela ´ ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of Cole Johnson (LA) Rogers (AL) Ellison McEachin Velazquez Collins (GA) Johnson (OH) Rogers (KY) Engel McGovern Visclosky amendment.’’ Eshoo McNerney Walz In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House Collins (NY) Johnson, Sam Rohrabacher Comer Jones Rokita Espaillat Meeks Wasserman of Representatives, the subchapter Comstock Jordan Rooney, Francis Esty (CT) Meng Schultz titled‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a Conaway Joyce (OH) Rooney, Thomas Evans Moore Waters, Maxine refusal to order the previous question on Cook Katko J. Foster Moulton Watson Coleman such a rule [a special rule reported from the Costello (PA) Kelly (MS) Ros-Lehtinen Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) Welch Cramer Kelly (PA) Roskam Fudge Nadler Wilson (FL) Committee on Rules] opens the resolution to Gabbard Napolitano Yarmuth amendment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, Crawford King (IA) Ross section 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon Culberson King (NY) Rothfus NOT VOTING—11 Curbelo (FL) Kinzinger Rouzer rejection of the motion for the previous Curtis Knight Royce (CA) Bridenstine Davis, Danny Richmond question on a resolution reported from the Davis, Rodney Kustoff (TN) Russell Buchanan Hudson Scott (VA) Committee on Rules, control shifts to the Denham Labrador Rutherford Clarke (NY) Kennedy Smith (TX) Member leading the opposition to the pre- Dent LaHood Sanford Davidson Pocan vious question, who may offer a proper DeSantis LaMalfa Scalise DesJarlais Lamborn Schweikert amendment or motion and who controls the b 1156 time for debate thereon.’’ Diaz-Balart Lance Scott, Austin Donovan Latta Sensenbrenner Clearly, the vote on the previous question Duffy Lewis (MN) Sessions Mr. GOTTHEIMER and Ms. MCCOL- on a rule does have substantive policy impli- Duncan (SC) LoBiondo Shimkus LUM changed their vote from ‘‘yea’’ to cations. It is one of the only available tools Duncan (TN) Long Shuster ‘‘nay.’’ for those who oppose the Republican major- Dunn Loudermilk Simpson ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- Emmer Love Smith (MO) Mr. SHUSTER changed his vote from native views the opportunity to offer an al- Estes (KS) Lucas Smith (NE) ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ ternative plan. Farenthold Luetkemeyer Smith (NJ) So the previous question was ordered. Faso MacArthur Smucker Mr. SESSIONS. Mr. Speaker, I yield Ferguson Marchant Stefanik The result of the vote was announced back the balance of my time, and I Fitzpatrick Marino Stewart as above recorded. Fleischmann Marshall Stivers move the previous question on the res- Flores Massie Taylor The SPEAKER pro tempore. The olution. Fortenberry Mast Tenney question is on the resolution.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.002 H19DEPT1 H10200 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 The question was taken; and the NOES—193 of 2002 to strengthen the aerospace Speaker pro tempore announced that Adams Gallego Neal workforce pipeline by the promotion of the ayes appeared to have it. Aguilar Garamendi Nolan Robert Noyce Teacher Scholarship Pro- Amash Gomez Norcross RECORDED VOTE Barraga´ n Gonzalez (TX) O’Halleran gram and National Aeronautics and Bass Gottheimer O’Rourke Space Administration internship and Ms. SLAUGHTER. Mr. Speaker, I de- Beatty Green, Al Pallone fellowship opportunities to women, and mand a recorded vote. Bera Green, Gene Panetta for other purposes, as amended, on A recorded vote was ordered. Beyer Grijalva Pascrell Bishop (GA) Gutie´rrez Payne which the yeas and nays were ordered. The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Blumenauer Hanabusa Pelosi The Clerk read the title of the bill. 5-minute vote. Blunt Rochester Hastings Perlmutter The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Bonamici Heck Peters The vote was taken by electronic de- Boyle, Brendan Higgins (NY) Peterson question is on the motion offered by vice, and there were—ayes 233, noes 193, F. Himes Pingree the gentleman from California (Mr. not voting 5, as follows: Brady (PA) Hoyer Polis KNIGHT) that the House suspend the Brown (MD) Huffman Price (NC) rules and pass the bill, as amended. [Roll No. 689] Brownley (CA) Jackson Lee Quigley Bustos Jayapal Raskin This is a 5-minute vote. AYES—233 Butterfield Jeffries Rice (NY) The vote was taken by electronic de- Abraham Gosar Palmer Capuano Johnson (GA) Richmond vice, and there were—yeas 409, nays 17, Aderholt Gowdy Paulsen Carbajal Johnson, E. B. Rosen Allen Granger Pearce Ca´ rdenas Jones Roybal-Allard not voting 5, as follows: Amodei Graves (GA) Perry Carson (IN) Kaptur Ruiz [Roll No. 690] Arrington Graves (LA) Cartwright Keating Ruppersberger Pittenger YEAS—409 Babin Graves (MO) Poe (TX) Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) Rush Bacon Griffith Poliquin Castro (TX) Khanna Ryan (OH) Abraham Connolly Graves (MO) ´ Banks (IN) Grothman Posey Chu, Judy Kihuen Sanchez Adams Cook Green, Al Barletta Guthrie Ratcliffe Cicilline Kildee Sarbanes Aderholt Cooper Green, Gene Barr Handel Reed Clark (MA) Kilmer Schakowsky Aguilar Correa Griffith Clay Kind Barton Harper Reichert Schiff Allen Costa Grijalva Cleaver Krishnamoorthi Schneider Bergman Harris Renacci Amodei Costello (PA) Guthrie Clyburn Kuster (NH) Schrader ´ Biggs Hartzler Rice (SC) Arrington Courtney Gutierrez Cohen Langevin Scott (VA) Bilirakis Hensarling Roby Babin Cramer Hanabusa Connolly Larsen (WA) Scott, David Bishop (MI) Herrera Beutler Roe (TN) Bacon Crawford Handel Bishop (UT) Hice, Jody B. Cooper Larson (CT) Serrano Banks (IN) Crist Harper Rogers (AL) Black Higgins (LA) Correa Lawrence Sewell (AL) Barletta Crowley Hartzler Rogers (KY) Blackburn Hill Costa Lawson (FL) Shea-Porter Barr Cuellar Hastings Rohrabacher Blum Holding Courtney Lee Sherman Barraga´ n Culberson Heck Rokita Bost Hollingsworth Crist Levin Sinema Barton Cummings Hensarling Rooney, Francis Brady (TX) Huizenga Crowley Lewis (GA) Sires Bass Curbelo (FL) Herrera Beutler Rooney, Thomas Brat Hultgren Cuellar Lieu, Ted Slaughter Beatty Curtis Hice, Jody B. J. Brooks (AL) Hunter Cummings Lipinski Smith (WA) Bera Davis (CA) Higgins (LA) Brooks (IN) Hurd Ros-Lehtinen Davis (CA) Loebsack Soto Bergman Davis, Danny Higgins (NY) Buchanan Issa Roskam Davis, Danny Lofgren Speier Beyer Davis, Rodney Hill Buck Jenkins (KS) Ross DeFazio Lowenthal Suozzi Biggs DeFazio Himes Bucshon Jenkins (WV) Rothfus DeGette Lowey Swalwell (CA) Bilirakis DeGette Holding Budd Johnson (LA) Rouzer Delaney Lujan Grisham, Takano Bishop (GA) Delaney Hollingsworth Burgess Johnson (OH) Royce (CA) DeLauro M. Thompson (CA) Bishop (MI) DeLauro Hoyer Byrne Johnson, Sam Russell DelBene Luja´ n, Ben Ray Thompson (MS) Bishop (UT) DelBene Huffman Calvert Jordan Rutherford Demings Lynch Titus Black Demings Huizenga Carter (GA) Joyce (OH) Sanford DeSaulnier Maloney, Tonko Blackburn Denham Hultgren Carter (TX) Katko Scalise Deutch Carolyn B. Torres Blum Dent Hunter Chabot Kelly (MS) Schweikert Dingell Maloney, Sean Tsongas Blumenauer DeSantis Hurd Cheney Kelly (PA) Scott, Austin Doggett Massie Vargas Blunt Rochester DeSaulnier Issa Coffman King (IA) Sensenbrenner Doyle, Michael Matsui Veasey Bonamici DesJarlais Jackson Lee Cole King (NY) Sessions F. McCollum Vela Bost Deutch Jayapal Collins (GA) Kinzinger Shimkus Ellison McEachin Vela´ zquez Boyle, Brendan Diaz-Balart Jeffries Collins (NY) Knight Shuster Engel McGovern Visclosky F. Dingell Jenkins (KS) Comer Kustoff (TN) Simpson Eshoo McNerney Walz Brady (PA) Doggett Jenkins (WV) Comstock Labrador Smith (MO) Espaillat Meeks Wasserman Brady (TX) Donovan Johnson (GA) Conaway LaHood Smith (NE) Esty (CT) Meng Schultz Brat Doyle, Michael Johnson (LA) Cook LaMalfa Smith (NJ) Evans Moore Waters, Maxine Brooks (AL) F. Johnson (OH) Costello (PA) Lamborn Smith (TX) Foster Moulton Watson Coleman Brooks (IN) Duffy Johnson, E. B. Cramer Lance Smucker Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) Welch Brown (MD) Duncan (SC) Johnson, Sam Crawford Latta Stefanik Fudge Nadler Wilson (FL) Brownley (CA) Dunn Jones Culberson Lewis (MN) Stewart Gabbard Napolitano Yarmuth Buchanan Ellison Jordan Curbelo (FL) LoBiondo Stivers NOT VOTING—5 Bucshon Emmer Joyce (OH) Curtis Long Taylor Budd Engel Kaptur Davidson Loudermilk Tenney Bridenstine Hudson Pocan Burgess Eshoo Katko Davis, Rodney Love Thompson (PA) Clarke (NY) Kennedy Bustos Espaillat Keating Denham Lucas Thornberry Butterfield Estes (KS) Kelly (IL) Dent Luetkemeyer ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Byrne Esty (CT) Tiberi Kelly (MS) DeSantis MacArthur Calvert Evans Kelly (PA) Tipton The SPEAKER pro tempore (during DesJarlais Marchant Capuano Farenthold Khanna Trott the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Diaz-Balart Marino Carbajal Faso Kihuen Turner Donovan Marshall ing. Ca´ rdenas Ferguson Kildee Upton Duffy Mast Carson (IN) Fitzpatrick Kilmer Valadao b 1205 Duncan (SC) McCarthy Carter (GA) Fleischmann Kind Duncan (TN) McCaul Wagner Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts Carter (TX) Flores King (NY) Walberg Dunn McClintock changed her vote from ‘‘aye’’ to ‘‘no.’’ Cartwright Fortenberry Kinzinger Emmer McHenry Walden Castor (FL) Foster Knight Estes (KS) McKinley Walker So the resolution was agreed to. Castro (TX) Foxx Krishnamoorthi Farenthold McMorris Walorski The result of the vote was announced Chabot Frankel (FL) Kuster (NH) Faso Rodgers Walters, Mimi as above recorded. Cheney Frelinghuysen Kustoff (TN) Ferguson McSally Weber (TX) A motion to reconsider was laid on Chu, Judy Fudge LaHood Fitzpatrick Meadows Webster (FL) Cicilline Gabbard LaMalfa Fleischmann Meehan Wenstrup the table. Clark (MA) Gallagher Lamborn Flores Messer Westerman f Clay Gallego Lance Fortenberry Mitchell Williams Cleaver Garamendi Langevin Foxx Moolenaar Wilson (SC) WOMEN IN AEROSPACE Clyburn Gianforte Larsen (WA) Frelinghuysen Mooney (WV) Wittman EDUCATION ACT Coffman Gibbs Larson (CT) Gaetz Mullin Womack Cohen Gomez Latta Gallagher Newhouse Woodall The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Cole Goodlatte Lawrence Garrett Noem Yoder finished business is the vote on the mo- Collins (GA) Gottheimer Lawson (FL) Gianforte Norman Yoho tion to suspend the rules and pass the Collins (NY) Gowdy Lee Gibbs Nunes Young (AK) Comer Granger Levin Gohmert Olson Young (IA) bill (H.R. 4254) to amend the National Comstock Graves (GA) Lewis (GA) Goodlatte Palazzo Zeldin Science Foundation Authorization Act Conaway Graves (LA) Lewis (MN)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.036 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10201 Lieu, Ted Paulsen Sinema AUTHORIZING THE CLERK TO vest more in their workers and in their Lipinski Payne Sires MAKE CORRECTIONS IN EN- futures. And our businesses will finally LoBiondo Pearce Slaughter Loebsack Pelosi Smith (MO) GROSSMENT OF H.R. 4375, STEM have a Tax Code that helps them com- Lofgren Perlmutter Smith (NE) RESEARCH AND EDUCATION EF- pete and win anywhere in the world, es- Long Peters Smith (NJ) FECTIVENESS AND TRANS- pecially here at home. Loudermilk Peterson Smith (TX) PARENCY ACT This is our moment to make history, Love Pingree Smith (WA) Lowenthal Pittenger Smucker Mrs. COMSTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I ask to make good on our promise, and to Lowey Poe (TX) Soto unanimous consent that the Clerk be make tax reform a reality for the first Lucas Poliquin Speier time in 31 years. Luetkemeyer Polis directed to make the change in the en- Stefanik Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Lujan Grisham, Posey Stewart grossment of H.R. 4375 that I have M. Price (NC) Stivers placed at the table. my time. Luja´ n, Ben Ray Quigley Suozzi Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Lynch Raskin Swalwell (CA) self 3 minutes. MacArthur Ratcliffe Clerk will report the modification. Takano Mr. Speaker, what you are about to Maloney, Reed Taylor The Clerk read as follows: Carolyn B. Reichert hear from our Republican friends for Tenney Amend the title so as to read: ‘‘A bill to Maloney, Sean Renacci Thompson (CA) the next 30 minutes is the following: a Marchant Rice (NY) provide for a report on broadening participa- Thompson (MS) mixture of theology and science fic- Marino Rice (SC) Thompson (PA) tion in certain National Science Foundation Marshall Richmond Thornberry research and education programs, to collect tion. And then they are going to take Mast Roby Tiberi data on Federal research grants to science you to revisionist history. Matsui Roe (TN) Tipton This is the most regressive piece of McCarthy Rogers (AL) agencies, and for other purposes.’’. Titus McCaul Rogers (KY) tax legislation that has come from the Tonko The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there McClintock Rohrabacher Torres objection to the request of the gentle- Ways and Means Committee in the 25 McCollum Rokita Trott years that I have been a member. McEachin Rooney, Francis woman from Virginia? Tsongas McGovern Rooney, Thomas There was no objection. This is not about simplification. Turner McHenry J. When you have a chance to look at the Upton McKinley Ros-Lehtinen f Valadao phase-ins and the phaseouts, you will McMorris Rosen be passed out by the time they get to Rodgers Roskam Vargas CONFERENCE REPORT ON H.R. 1, McNerney Ross Veasey TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT the expiration dates. McSally Rothfus Vela They say it is about simplicity; it ´ Meadows Rouzer Velazquez Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Visclosky was going to be on a postcard. You are Meehan Roybal-Allard pursuant to House Resolution 667, I call going to need to carry a billboard Meeks Royce (CA) Wagner up the conference report on the bill Walberg around with you to understand what is Meng Ruiz (H.R. 1) to provide for reconciliation Messer Ruppersberger Walden in this actual bill. Mitchell Rush Walker pursuant to titles II and V of the con- And here is the best part: when Sec- Moolenaar Russell Walorski current resolution on the budget for Walters, Mimi retary Mnuchin said, Mr. Speaker, that Mooney (WV) Rutherford fiscal year 2018, and ask for its imme- Moore Ryan (OH) Walz under no circumstances would people Moulton Sa´ nchez Wasserman diate consideration. at the top get tax relief. Well, I guess Schultz Mullin Sarbanes The Clerk read the title of the bill. if you are formerly in the 39.6 percent Murphy (FL) Scalise Waters, Maxine The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Watson Coleman tax bracket, which is summarily low- Nadler Schakowsky ant to House Resolution 667, the con- Napolitano Schiff Weber (TX) ered to 37 percent, that that is dressed Neal Schneider Webster (FL) ference report is considered read. Welch up as no tax relief for people at the Newhouse Schrader (For conference report and state- very top. But then again, to help out Noem Schweikert Wenstrup ment, see proceedings of the House of Nolan Scott (VA) Westerman with their argument, then they double Norcross Scott, Austin Williams December 15, 2017, at page H9943.) the exemption on the estate tax, which Norman Scott, David Wilson (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- will go from $11 million to $22 million. Nunes Sensenbrenner Wilson (SC) tleman from Texas (Mr. BRADY) and O’Halleran Serrano Wittman The people at the bottom in this, O’Rourke Sessions Womack the gentleman from Massachusetts they are going to argue: Everybody Olson Sewell (AL) Woodall (Mr. NEAL) each will control 30 min- gets a tax cut. Well, here is where we Palazzo Shea-Porter Yarmuth utes. go to revised history. Pallone Sherman Yoder The Chair recognizes the gentleman Palmer Shimkus Young (AK) In 2001, President Bush said every- Panetta Shuster Young (IA) from Texas. body gets a tax cut. The Federal budg- Pascrell Simpson Zeldin GENERAL LEAVE et of $1.3 trillion included a tax cut for NAYS—17 Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I everybody. The people at the bottom Amash Gohmert Labrador ask unanimous consent that all Mem- got a hundred bucks, and the people at Buck Gonzalez (TX) Massie bers may have 5 legislative days within the top got hundreds of thousands of Davidson Gosar Perry which to revise and extend their re- dollars. This is a creative replay of ex- Duncan (TN) Grothman Sanford marks and include extraneous material actly what happened. Gaetz Harris Yoho Garrett King (IA) on the bill currently under consider- And then in 2003, they came back and ation. cut taxes again for people at the very NOT VOTING—5 The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there top and blew a huge hole in the Federal Bridenstine Hudson Pocan objection to the request of the gen- deficit, which had been estimated at Clarke (NY) Kennedy tleman from Texas? the time, after Clinton left on January ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE There was no objection. 19, 2001, to project surpluses of $5.6 tril- The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I lion over the next 10 years. Instead, the the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- yield myself such time as I may con- Federal deficit mounted to $6.1 trillion. ing. sume. So here is the simplicity of their pro- Today, we are delivering on our tax posal today. They are borrowing $2.3 b 1213 reform promise to the American peo- trillion to give a tax cut to people at ple. For the first time in over three the very top of American society. That Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee changed decades, we are delivering a new Tax is not in dispute. his vote from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ Code that provides more jobs, fairer In addition to borrowing the money, So (two-thirds being in the affirma- taxes, and bigger paychecks to Ameri- recall that the Federal Reserve Board tive) the rules were suspended and the cans across the country. said they are projecting, already, three bill, as amended, was passed. With this bill, a middle-income fam- increases next year in interest rates. The result of the vote was announced ily of four earning $73,000 a year will We don’t know what this is going to as above recorded. see a tax cut of over $2,000. Our local look like by the time they get done, A motion to reconsider was laid on job creators will see the lowest tax but this, today, is more about ideology the table. rates in modern history so they can in- than it is about public policy.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.005 H19DEPT1 H10202 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 Think of it this way as well: This was form the Code into a system that is posing the economics of opportunity, done in 1 month. In 1 single month, the simpler and fairer and that encourages not the economics of envy; the econom- entire revenue system of the United economic growth instead of sup- ics of buoyancy and the economics of States is being transformed. pressing it. That is what this bill does, participation. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The and that is why I strongly support its Therein lies the foundation of this time of the gentleman has expired. passage. bill. It offers tax relief that my con- Mr. NEAL. I yield myself an addi- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 stituents are longing for, and it offers tional 1 minute, Mr. Speaker. minute to the gentleman from Michi- a business environment in a milieu Not one public hearing was held on gan (Mr. LEVIN), the longest serving that makes things happen, and happen this bill. And when they say today, member of the Ways and Means Com- for the good. ‘‘Oh, we had 5 years of public hear- mittee, and a well-deserved 1 minute, I So I am pleased, I am honored to be ings,’’ we did not have one hearing on might add. a part of this. I urge my colleagues to this bill—not one. No witness testi- (Mr. LEVIN asked and was given per- vote ‘‘aye,’’ and let us celebrate a job mony was sought. No committee was mission to revise and extend his re- well done. convened for the purpose of a hearing. marks.) Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 And then when we went to conference, Mr. LEVIN. Mr. Speaker, in all of my minute to the gentleman from Georgia, we were all granted an opening state- 35 years in Congress, this is one of the Congressman JOHN LEWIS, one of the ment, and we got to question the non- most deceitful bills I have ever seen. great men of our times. partisan Director of the Joint Com- It is deceitful when Republicans say Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, mittee on Taxation. the bill is focused on the middle class I want to thank my good friend and Mr. Speaker, more than anything while it is really aimed at making the ranking member, Mr. NEAL, for yield- else today, this is a missed opportunity very wealthy even wealthier and forcing me time. where both sides could have accom- ing millions of middle class families to I rise to oppose this conference re- plished something great for the Amer- pay higher taxes. port with every bone in my body. ican people. It is deceitful when they say it This bill is a $2.3 trillion cowardly I reserve the balance of my time. makes the Tax Code simpler, even as gift to Wall Street, the rich, and the Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I the legislation creates complicated wealthy. This bill was conceived in the am proud to yield 2 minutes to the gen- new loopholes while allowing existing darkness of the night and birthed with tleman from California (Mr. NUNES). ones, such as carried interest, to con- the help of their donors and funders. Mr. NUNES. Mr. Speaker, I stood tinue. This bill is not for the people; it is here several weeks ago to speak in sup- It is deceitful when the bill will in- not of the people; and, Mr. Speaker, it port of the original House-passed tax crease the outsourcing of American is not tax reform. They reward their reform bill. Since then, as a member of jobs by providing a lower tax rate on donors so that our children and grand- the conference committee, I have par- foreign investment compared to invest- children will suffer. This is not fair, it ticipated in the process of strength- ing here. is not just, and it is below the dignity ening this bill and making it even more It is deceitful about the debt. Repub- and the worth of this body. transformative. That is why I continue licans say don’t worry about the expir- Mr. Speaker, I have said on many oc- to stand in strong support of the bill ing tax provisions, but extending them casions that you cannot get blood from and conference report we will be voting would raise the bill’s already dev- a turnip; you cannot justify robbing on today. astating effect on the deficit to $2.3 poor Peter to pay billionaire Paul. Washington’s special interests have trillion. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The distorted business decisions for too Republicans are rushing this bill, time of the gentleman has expired. Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield the long, and we cannot afford to wait any but, even in their haste, they are al- gentleman an additional 15 seconds. longer to reform our broken Tax Code. ready too late. The majority of the Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Should we fail to act now, businesses American people already say this bill is when the bill comes due, the chickens will continue to leave the United a deceitful sham. will come home to roost. States for tax purposes, taking thou- Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I I urge all of my colleagues to be on sands of good-paying jobs—American am very proud to yield 2 minutes to the right side of history and vote jobs—with them. Our small businesses the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. ROS- against this act. will continue to suffer the damaging KAM), chairman of the Tax Policy Sub- I thank my good friend, the ranking effects of a bewildering and punitive committee. member, Mr. NEAL, for yielding. Tax Code that gives unfair advantages Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. Speaker, I rise to oppose this to their larger, well-connected com- the chairman for yielding me time. conference report with every bone in petitors. We have heard some strong language my body. But all this will change if we pass for the past couple of minutes. This has This bill is a $2.3 trillion holiday gift this bill. been described as theology, science fic- for Wall Street, the rich, and the For years, I have advocated for full tion, ideology, and now deceit. wealthy. and immediate expensing, which will Well, where is the deceit? This bill was conceived in the dark- allow businesses of all sizes to write off The deceit is in the assumption that ness and birthed with the help of your costs immediately. This bill will pro- we can live with the status quo, Mr. donors and funders. vide full expensing, which is one of the Speaker. This bill is not for the people. It is many progrowth pieces to this legisla- The deceit is a blindness to the rec- not of the people, and, Mr. Speaker, it tion. I am confident my colleagues will ognition that we have a Tax Code that is not tax reform. soon see the tremendous effect of full is literally dissolving underneath us. It Working and middle class families, expensing and make the important de- is dissolving underneath us. the sick, the elderly, and generations cision to extend it before it expires. And this Congress has an opportunity yet unborn will bear the burden of this Mr. Speaker, I stand here with my to do something transformational, and reckless act. colleagues on an historic day in sup- I propose, along with my colleagues, to To pay for this so-called tax cut, Re- port of one of the most dramatic re- be transformational and opportunistic. publicans will destroy the hopes of form bills to come before this body There is a lot of discussion in the those, who dream of affordable, quality since I came to Congress. The Tax Cuts subtext of this about class envy and op- health care. and Jobs Act simplifies the Code, grows portunity and so forth. Here is what I To pay for this tax cut, Social Secu- the economy, and allows for strong know: It is the status quo that is serv- rity, Medicare, and CHIP will be on the business investment. ing the few. It is the status quo that is chopping block. I have said before that I will not ac- so off-putting and unsettling and keeps To pay for this tax cut, bipartisan re- cept the status quo of our broken Tax people at arm’s length. pairs of transportation, affordable Code or a minimal reform that merely What we are proposing is something housing, and student debt will be out of adjusts rates. Instead, we must trans- very different. Mr. Speaker, we are pro- reach.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.043 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10203 To pay for this tax cut, every single will be felt by all Americans for gen- So Republicans may pat themselves federal program that matters to the erations to come. on the back in the coming days for American people will be dealt a crip- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 having finally passed something out of pling blow. minutes to the gentleman from Mary- Congress. Unfortunately, it is a bad You reward your donors so that our land (Mr. HOYER), the very capable leg- thing. I urge them to remember that children and grandchildren will suffer. islator and Democratic whip. this vote may be the most consequen- This is not fair. It is not just, and it Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I was here tial of their careers, and not positively. is below the dignity and the worth of in 1981. They said the 1981 bill would I say to my friends across the aisle: this body. pay for itself. Stand up and say ‘‘no’’ with us and Mr. Speaker, I’ve said on many occa- David Stockman, a former colleague commit to start working on a product sions that you cannot get blood from a from Michigan, was here. He was at all Members of the Chamber can be turnip, and you cannot justify robbing OMB. A few years later, he wrote a proud of, as was the case in 1986. That poor Peter to pay billionaire Paul. book and he said: I said it would pay is what Ronald Reagan did. In 1986, Mr. Speaker, when the bill comes for itself, and I knew that was not true. Reagan did not go down this reckless due, the chickens will come home to The same can be said of this bill. and irresponsible path. roost. Mr. Speaker, history will indeed re- Stand up for the principles you used I urge all of my colleagues to be on member this vote. Future generations to espouse but are now about to aban- the right side of history and to vote of Americans will remember who cast don. Stand up for fiscal responsibility. against this bill. their votes to raise taxes on 86 million Stand up for the middle class. Stand up middle class households and heap an- b 1230 for what the American people hope we other $1.5 trillion in deficits onto our would do. This is not it. Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I children and our grandchildren. Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman They will remember who cast their yield 2 minutes to the gentlewoman from Tennessee (Mrs. BLACK), the votes for a plan that gives 83 percent of from South Dakota (Mrs. NOEM). chairwoman of the Budget Committee its benefits to 1 percent of the Amer- Mrs. NOEM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today and a member of the Ways and Means ican people. as a farmer, a rancher, a small-business Committee. They will remember that President person, but most importantly as a Mrs. BLACK. Mr. Speaker, this is Trump promised that the middle class mom. I rise to support the conference truly a monumental day for the Amer- would get a tax cut and wealthy indi- report on H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs ican people. viduals like him would not, before Act. During my 7 years here in the House turning his back on that promise. Mr. Speaker, in my home State of serving on the Ways and Means Com- They will remember those who cast South Dakota, the average household mittee, we have studied, considered, their vote to kick 13 million Americans income is $54,000 per year. Out of that and outlined the sorts of reform that off their health insurance coverage. $54,000, our families pay double the na- could benefit the American people. They will remember those who acted tional average in energy costs just be- As a conferee for H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts with the full knowledge that their cause of where they are located. These and Jobs Act, I am proud that we kept votes would trigger a $25 billion cut to are hardworking families and they de- our promise of providing tax relief for Medicare. I know you said you are serve a break. The Tax Cuts and Jobs hardworking, middle class families and going to waive it, which would simply Act gives them that break. making the Tax Code simpler and fair- add $25 billion more to the deficit. By lowering tax rates, doubling the er for all. Posterity will also remember those standard deduction, and doubling the It has been more than three decades who stood up in the face of this dan- child tax credit, that family in South since our Nation’s tax system has been gerous and partisan bill and said ‘‘no.’’ Dakota making $54,000 can go from an modernized, and this is finally the day Those of us who vote against it are $833 tax liability to a $781 tax refund. to change that. doing so not because we oppose tax re- That is a $1,600 difference in after-tax I want to remind my colleagues that form. On the contrary. We recognize, as income. That is $1,600 that can go back the process began long before this year. most Americans do, that this bill is not to benefit their families and their com- When passage of the budget provided tax reform. It is a tax giveaway to munities, rather than into the greedy the key, our ideas for conservative tax those who don’t need our help, paid for hands of those in Washington. reform were finally unlocked and could by those who need it the most. This is On top of that, the Tax Cuts and Jobs be pursued for real tax reform. reckless and dangerous deficit spending Act is designed to build a healthier Without question, this conference re- at its worst. economy—an economy in which that port reflects our shared conservative In 1986, Democrats and Republicans family making $54,000 can get a raise, principles. The conference agreement worked together in good faith and over an economy that actually grows jobs. addresses the heavy tax burden weigh- many months in an open, transparent, I am proud to have served on the con- ing down hardworking Americans and and regular order process to craft real, ference committee that put this report holding back job creators. It brings bipartisan tax reform that helped the together. I thank Chairman BRADY for simplicity to the Tax Code. It helps middle class without adding a dime to his leadership throughout the process. low- and middle-income Americans see the deficit. Not a single dime. We worked literally hundreds of hours more of their hard-earned dollars in This has not been an open process. putting this together and getting the their paychecks. It empowers entre- This has not been bipartisan. This has child tax credit where it is today. preneurs and small businesses to con- not been transparent or through reg- We had vigorous debates about the tinue opening, operating, and expand- ular order. benefits to rural America. I am thrilled ing on Main Street. This raises taxes, as I said, on 86 mil- to be able to go home and tell South With every major legislative effort, lion Americans, who will pay more Dakota farmers and ranchers they will there will be critics. But the critics taxes 10 years from now than they do have new expensing tools, a new small have it wrong. The truth is that the today. It gives 83 percent of the tax business deduction, and significantly Tax Cuts and Jobs Act delivers relief at cuts to the top 1 percent, not the lower individual rates. every income level and protects more $59,000 family that PAUL RYAN talked While I am disappointed that this bill hard-earned dollars from taxes. For the about, but to those families making doesn’t completely repeal the death average family of four, this legislation over $900,000 a year. tax, it does provide more relief for pro- means a tax cut next year of more than The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ducers and small-business owners. $2,000. time of the gentleman has expired. While no plan is perfect in anyone’s The point of this exercise is that we Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield an eyes, this legislation puts more money are cutting your taxes, plain and sim- additional 1 minute to the gentleman. in the pockets of hardworking tax- ple. I urge my colleagues to stand on Mr. HOYER. This bill adds $1.5 tril- payers. The bottom line is this: the the right side of history and support lion to the deficit. This is not tax re- American people deserve more control this legislation because the benefits form. over their paychecks. They worked for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.007 H19DEPT1 H10204 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 that money, and it is time folks in Republicans said the tax bill would b 1245 Washington respect that. simplify the tax system and help work- Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Mr. Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 ing people, not the rich. Well, that is Speaker, I thank the gentleman for minute to the gentleman from Texas out the window. With this Republican yielding. (Mr. DOGGETT), a valued member of the bill, 86 million middle class households Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD Ways and Means Committee. will see their taxes go up. the Congressional Budget Office’s ac- Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, between Remember when the Republicans said counting of the $25 billion that will be tweets, Trump apparently had time to we would be filing our taxes on a post- taken out of Medicare. take those calls from his rich friends card? The postcard is now gone. Instead of CONGRESSIONAL BUDGET OFFICE, that kept asking for more. Not even U.S. CONGRESS this lapdog Republican Congress ini- making our Tax Code simpler, Repub- Washington, DC, November 13, 2017. tially did enough to satisfy the Trump licans have made it more complicated. Hon. STENY H. HOYER, family and their billionaire buddies. They have even added an additional Democratic Whip, House of Representatives, Instead of adjusting the differences bracket. Washington, DC. between the House and the Senate, Re- Their claim that this is not a tax bill DEAR CONGRESSMAN: This letter responds publican conferees, last week, secretly that favors the rich and the corpora- to your request for information about the ef- tions, some of which ship jobs overseas, fects of legislation that would raise deficits concocted even more benefits for them. by an estimated $1.5 trillion over the 2018– Those real estate moguls, like Trump, is malarkey. While there are some tax cuts for the middle class, they are all 2027 period, specifically with respect to a se- who had already been granted pref- questration—or cancellation of budgetary re- erential tax treatment, can now take temporary. But the breaks for corpora- sources—in accordance with the Statutory advantage of an entirely new loophole tions are permanent. That is leaving Pay-As-You-Go Act of 2010(PAYGO; Public that was not in either of the previous too many people behind. Law 111–139). bills. Let’s not forget about the State and The PAYGO law requires that new legisla- Just in case their endless loopholes local tax provision. Because of the tion enacted during a term of Congress does not collectively increase estimated deficits. left some donor behind, the Repub- changes the Republicans are making, some home values in some States are The Office of Management and Budget (OMB) licans have provided a new, across-the- is required to maintain two so-called PAYGO board tax cut for billionaires. It is projected to drop by 10 percent. The richest of the rich are getting a scorecards to report the cumulative changes working families who will pay to put generated by new legislation in estimated the platinum tinsel on this Christmas break. The top bracket is dropping revenues and outlays over the next five years tree for the elite. from 39.6 percent to 37 percent. Those and ten years. If either scorecard indicates a This is not tax reform. It is a reward folks are not your working, middle net increase in the deficit, OMB is required for the privileged. It is a Christmas class families. To add insult to injury, to order a sequestration to eliminate the where working people get to keep the it raises our debt by $2.3 trillion. overage. The authority to determine whether It is a bad bill. Please vote ‘‘no.’’ a sequestration is required (and if so, exactly gift wrapping, but the wealthy and cor- Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I how to make the necessary cuts in budget porate tax dodgers get the gift. yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman authority) rests solely with OMB. Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I CBO has analyzed the implications of en- from Kansas (Ms. JENKINS). yield 1 minute to the gentleman from Ms. JENKINS of Kansas. Mr. Speak- acting a bill that would increase deficits by $1.5 trillion over a 10–year window, without Ohio (Mr. TIBERI). er, I thank the gentleman for yielding Mr. TIBERI. Mr. Speaker, this is a enacting any further legislation to offset and for his leadership on this very im- that increase. In accordance with the historic day. portant issue. I am reminded that 17 years ago, I PAYGO law, OMB would record the average Mr. Speaker, I rise today to be a annual deficit on its PAYGO scorecard, got elected to Congress, campaigning voice for Kansans who know our status showing deficit increases of, in the example on tax reform and campaigning on the quo Tax Code no longer works for provided, $150 billion per year. If the bill fact that it is not our money, it is our them. They know it doesn’t work when were enacted before the end of the calendar constituents’ money. it favors special interests over individ- year, that amount would be added to the cur- Today we are giving the money back uals or when it causes Kansas factories rent balances on the PAYGO scorecard, to our constituents. To Bob and Betty which for 2018, show a positive balance of $14 to close, sending those jobs to other billion. (For years after 2018, the balances Buckeye in Ohio, it is more wages in countries. their pockets. range from a $14 billion credit to a $1 billion I rise today because Kansans know debit.) The bill also includes an initiative that without rejuvenated and sustained Without enacting subsequent legislation to that I worked on with Mr. KIND that is economic growth, we will never find either offset that deficit increase, waive the bipartisan, called the Investing in Op- the money to pay down our Nation’s recordation of the bill’s impact on the score- portunity Act, cosponsored by Mr. debt. card, or otherwise mitigate or eliminate the NEAL. This bill, authored by my friend That is why I strongly support H.R. requirements of the PAYGO law, OMB would in the Senate, TIM SCOTT, will help 1, which will close special interest be required to issue a sequestration order within 15 days of the end of the session of areas that haven’t seen economic re- loopholes and lower rates for every- covery to allow private investment in Congress to reduce spending in fiscal year one—not just the rich, not just the 2018 by the resultant total of $136 billion. poor rural and urban areas. Thanks to poor, but everyone. However, the PAYGO law limits reductions Mr. SCOTT, the bill was in the Senate Individuals in my district will see to Medicare to four percentage points (or version and in the conference com- immediate tax relief with the doubling roughly $25 billion for that year), leaving mittee. of the standard deduction and the child about $111 billion to be sequestered from the Mr. NEAL knows that incentives like tax credit. We also lessen the financial remaining mandatory accounts. Because the that, the low-income housing tax cred- burden of education by keeping impor- law entirely exempts many large accounts it, the new markets tax credit, and the tant college tax provisions and expand- including low-income programs and social security, the annual resources available from historic tax credit will help those in ing access to 529 savings plans. communities that have been left be- which OMB must draw is, in CBO’s esti- On average, a family of four in my mation, only between $85 billion to $90 bil- hind with more money in working fam- district will see a tax cut of just over lion, significantly less than the amount that ilies’ pockets. $2,300 because of this bill. would be required to be sequestered. (For a I urge adoption of the conference re- A fairer, simpler Tax Code means full list of accounts subject to automatic report. every hardworking family will see the ductions, see OMB Report to the Congress on Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 tax relief and economic growth this the Joint Committee Reductions for Fiscal minute to the gentleman from Cali- country rightfully deserves. Year 2018, https://go.usa.gov/xnZ3U.) fornia (Mr. THOMPSON), a distinguished Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Given that the required reduction in spend- Vietnam veteran and a well-known and minute to the gentleman from Con- ing exceeds the estimated amount of available resources in each year over the next 10 valued member of the committee. necticut (Mr. LARSON), the former years, in the absence of further legislation, Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. president of the State Senate and a OMB would be unable to implement the full Speaker, this tax bill is bait and well-informed member of the Ways and extent of outlay reductions required by the switch. Means Committee. PAYGO law.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:44 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.046 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10205 If you wish further details on this esti- est provisions being sold on a false set a very good reason. And lavishing huge mate, we will be pleased to provide them. of promises. tax breaks to multinational corpora- Sincerely, It is not middle class tax relief. It is, tions and to the most wealthy amongst KEITH HALL, instead, permanent and massive tax re- us is not a good reason. Director. duction for the largest corporations I am very concerned about many of Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Mr. and wealthy individuals like Donald my fiscally conservative friends across Speaker, it is hard to be here today, as Trump. Eighty-three percent will flow the aisle. So I offered an amendment we approach Christmas, and not look to the top 1 percent. that would have expanded the endan- at this bill, knowing that we have hon- Everybody else will receive only a gered species list to include fiscally orable Members on the other side, who, small, and temporary, tax reduction. conservative Republicans because they this Christmas, will be sitting with Ultimately, 86 million Americans, mid- are about to go extinct under this bill. their relatives, their family members, dle class Americans, will have their And under this bill, they are creating their mothers and fathers, their broth- taxes increased. a mess that is going to take years to ers and sisters, and knowing that this This legislation fails utterly to in- clean up because of the potential for creates not just a $2 trillion debt, but vest in the American people for this fraud and abuse. the pay-for—the pay-for—out of the $2.3 trillion. But it is a bonanza for the Consider this: They are pitting a hastily written bill, drafted without Medicare program: an automatic cut of attorneys, the accountants, and the one hearing, considered without feed- $25 billion in a plan that was never de- lobbyists finding ways to further en- back from people back home, without bated. It fulfills a grand vision of Gro- rich the most privileged in America. proper vetting, all over the course of a ver Norquist and the ideology that you And, for weeks to come, we are going few short weeks against some of the took a pledge to. But what about the to learn more about the special gifts smartest accountants and tax attor- oath of office, and a pledge to the Con- hidden within this bill to nail down the neys that money can buy. stitution, and standing up for the peo- last few votes. ple of this Nation, and the very elderly Who do you think is going to win No wonder the American public is op- that battle? at this Christmas, and throughout the posed. They are right, and the Repub- This is a bill that was drafted of, for, year, who will need our help? licans are wrong. and by the powerful special interests in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I Washington, and it should be rejected. bers are reminded to direct their re- yield 1 minute to the gentleman from The SPEAKER pro tempore. Once marks to the Chair. Nebraska (Mr. SMITH). again, the Chair reminds Members to Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. SMITH of Nebraska. Mr. Speak- direct their remarks to the Chair. yield 1 minute to the gentleman from er, I rise today in support of the tax re- Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I Minnesota (Mr. PAULSEN). form conference report. yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, I thank This is our great opportunity to re- Louisiana (Mr. SCALISE), the majority the gentleman for yielding. duce the tax burden on Americans whip of the Republican Conference. One of my predecessors—a good across the economic spectrum, while Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I thank friend and mentor—was Bill Frenzel. modernizing our Tax Code for the 21st Chairman BRADY for yielding time and He was the last Minnesotan to serve on century. for his leadership in the entire group of the Ways and Means Committee when I would like to take a few moments conferees on bringing this tax cuts and tax reform was passed. It was 1986. to discuss what this bill does for Amer- jobs bill to the floor. In the 31 years since then, our Tax ican agriculture. I thank President Trump for working Code has been one of the most com- First and foremost, this bill cuts with us every step of the way to bring plicated, unfair, and most uncompeti- taxes for most Americans, while sim- us to a historic moment where we are tive in the world. It has led to a stag- plifying compliance and transitioning actually going to provide tax relief to nant economy with sluggish growth, us to a more competitive tax system hardworking families. with America losing our manufac- internationally. There are those on the other side who turing, our jobs, our innovation, and In addition to retaining the deduc- would say: Keep all the money in our headquarters overseas. tion for State and local taxes for indi- Washington, stunt economic growth, But today, that all changes. Today, viduals and families up to $10,000, this continue to let America be non- competitive where we see jobs go over- we will pass and give Minnesota em- bill leaves intact the full deduction for seas over and over again—large compa- ployers the confidence and the capital property taxes on ag land and property. nies, thousands of jobs at a time mov- that they need to grow their busi- In addition, I am grateful this con- ing to foreign countries—because we nesses, to hire more workers, and to ference report includes a solution to have the highest corporate tax rate in give their employees a raise. concerns raised by agriculture co-ops the industrialized world. This provides middle-income families and their members about the repeal of Well, Mr. Speaker, it is time for that with tax cuts they need to save for section 199. to end, and we do end that in this bill. their future and improve their stand- With commodity prices low, it is im- We finally make our country competi- ard of living. This helps real people portant we ensure the Tax Code con- tive again so we can bring those jobs with real needs. tinues to work as intended, with co-ops back. Mr. Speaker, tax reform for me is passing along their profits to their pro- Why deny opportunity for so many about one thing and one thing only: it ducer owners. people who want a chance at the Amer- is about restoring the hope for a pros- Finally, while I would have preferred ican Dream? perous future for ourselves, our par- we repeal the death tax in full, dou- In our bill, Mr. Speaker, we cut every ents, and, most importantly, our chil- bling the exemption and keeping a single tax rate and make it lower. That dren. stepped up basis will help provide cer- is more money in the pockets of hard- Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of the tainty for more farmers, ranchers, and working families. On average, families report. small businesses. are going to see over $2,000 more back Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Mr. Speaker, I thank the chairman in their paychecks every year. That is minute to the gentleman from Oregon and the conferees for their work on real money, when you look at, right (Mr. BLUMENAUER), a very capable this strong product. I am anxious to now, the average savings for families is member of the committee, and a cham- pass this bill and get it to the Presi- $400 in their checking account. This is pion of renewable energy. dent for his signature. real money to help people have better Mr. BLUMENAUER. Mr. Speaker, Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 opportunities to go put more money in this bill will be the largest transfer of minute to the gentleman from Wis- their kids’ college tuition accounts. wealth in our Nation’s history, fi- consin (Mr. KIND), a very capable mem- When you look at what this means, it nanced by mortgaging our children’s ber of the Ways and Means Committee. is not only good for economic growth, future with a mountain of increased Mr. KIND. Mr. Speaker, if we are creating jobs, and rebuilding our mid- debt. It is not really even a policy. It going to borrow $2 trillion from China dle class, but it is historic in the sim- is, rather, a collection of special inter- over the next 10 years, it better be for plification where over 90 percent of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.010 H19DEPT1 H10206 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 American families will actually be able growth and a booming economy for ev- (Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS), a very knowl- to do their taxes on a postcard. Just eryone. edgeable Member from the city of Chi- think of how simplified that makes the Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to cago and champion of all things Chi- Code. vote in favor of this bill and deliver tax cago. The last time this was done was in relief to the American people. Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. 1986. And when Ronald Reagan was Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Speaker, any way you cut it, with this signing that bill, he talked about how minute to the gentleman from New bill, the rich will get richer, the poor hard it was and how many times people York (Mr. CROWLEY), the chairman of will get poorer, and middle class fami- said it couldn’t happen. In fact, Ronald the Democratic Caucus, a good friend, lies will get shafted. Thirteen million Reagan read a quote from a headline, and a former member of the com- Americans will lose their health cov- and he said: ‘‘The impossible became mittee. erage, and people with preexisting con- the inevitable.’’ Mr. CROWLEY. Mr. Speaker, the Re- ditions can forget it. Today, Mr. Speaker, we make that publican bill is unaffordable, with a Then the writers of this bill will be impossible the inevitable again and re- $2.3 trillion price tag. coming after entitlement programs, store that hope and opportunity for so It is inequitable, costing working after Medicaid, Medicare, Social Secu- many families who just want a chance families more, while cutting taxes by rity, SSI. We are down to the wire, and at the American Dream. We give them $200,000 for the top 0.1 percent. no matter what is said, this bill raises that. It is a scam, and the American people the debt, raises taxes on middle-income Let’s pass the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act know it. families, and provides wealthy individ- Is this bill about helping people who today. Get it on President Trump’s uals and corporations with big tax cuts are living paycheck to paycheck? desk so we can finally see this economy they don’t need. Hell no. going again. What a great Christmas Is this bill going to bring back jobs It is a sad day for my district; it is a present this is going to be to the Amer- and lift up the middle class? sad day for the State of Illinois; it is a ican people. Hell no. sad day for the United States of Amer- Mr. Speaker, I urge everybody to Is this bill going to make life better ica; and I will vote ‘‘no.’’ vote ‘‘yes.’’ for cops, firefighters, nurses, truck Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 drivers, students, veterans, teachers, yield 1 minute to the gentleman from minute to the gentleman from New and shift workers? North Carolina (Mr. HOLDING). Jersey (Mr. PASCRELL), the very Hell no. Mr. HOLDING. Mr. Speaker, I am quotable Congressman. Do you know who this bill is going to proud to be here today to support this Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, all on help? much-needed overhaul of our broken a postcard, simple as that. I say it is a Corporate special interests, the Tax Code. The status quo we have seen postage stamp mentality. Many of wealthiest Americans, and, yes, the over the past decade is unacceptable, them need counseling in economics. If Trump family. and this bill will finally provide much- they want to keep it simple, let’s keep My colleagues, if it looks like a needed relief to working families and it simple. Very simple. scam, quacks like a scam, it is a scam. put our economy back on the path to How about that couple that wants to Can you vote for this bill with a clear stable and sustained growth. send their kids to college and put a sec- conscience? This bill restores the global competi- ond mortgage on their house. You can’t Hell no, you can’t. tiveness of American businesses by do that anymore. You cannot do that. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- lowering the corporate rate and mov- That is not a middle class legislation. bers are advised to observe proper deco- ing toward a territorial system. Fur- That is the stick it to the middle class. rum in debate. ther, H.R. 1 provides our small busi- Mr. Speaker, this is serious business. Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I nesses the lowest tax rate in a genera- I will tell you what is simple. If you yield 1 minute to the gentleman from tion, ensuring that these job creators are born in a family with an estate New York (Mr. REED). are able to reinvest more of their hard- worth more than $11 million, this Re- Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I thank the earned money in our future. publican Congress is coming to your chairman for yielding to me. Instead of handing over more of their aid with a $3 million average windfall. And to the colleague from New York, money to the government, small busi- And if this Congress actually still to all of the people you referenced in nesses can hire that extra employee, practiced oversight, we would know the middle class, I say: Hell yes, they open that second location, or buy that from his tax returns that Donald are going to be helped by this bill. new piece of machinery or lab equip- And do you know what it is going to Trump and his family will see cuts ment that they need to take them to do? It is going to let them keep the worth millions of dollars per family. the next level by putting in place a Tax money in their pocket that they This is not good policy, Mr. Speak- Code that encourages growth and re- earned, the $1,600, for the average resi- er—not at all—and it is dangerous. wards investment. It is projected there dent in my district. Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I will be over 10,000 new full-time jobs And what it is also going to do, Mr. yield 1 minute to the gentleman from created in my State of North Carolina. Speaker, is it is going to create jobs. Texas (Mr. MARCHANT). And what does a job do for a person? I am proud to support this trans- Mr. MARCHANT. Mr. Speaker, I will tell you what it does. It not formational bill that will bolster today, we are keeping our promise to only puts money in their pockets, Mr. growth and investment here at home, the American people and sending com- Speaker, but we are going to have a leveling the playing field for U.S. busi- prehensive tax reform to the Presi- new wave of optimism. We are going to nesses. dent’s desk for the first time in 31 have a new wave of opportunity, where Further, I look forward to continuing years. people will be able to go to work, soil to work with my colleagues to ensure Lowering the tax rates for middle-in- their hands, and earn their livelihood, that Americans across the globe have a come families and providing a tax cut which gives them dignity, which gives similar level playing field through a for every income level in 2018 is a very them pride, and gives them honor. system of residence-based taxation. historic Christmas present delivered to This is a new day in America. And Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 my constituents in north Texas. with tax reform and tax cuts coming, I minute to the gentleman from New This year, our country has—after say to all of my colleagues: Join us to York (Mr. HIGGINS), a capable member many long years of low growth—begun stand for those hardworking Ameri- of the Ways and Means Committee. to experience the level of growth and cans, give them their money, and allow Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. economy that it needs. This tax cut us to give hope and opportunity to all Speaker, the rich and wealthy cor- bill will assure Americans years of sus- of them going forward. porate winners of this Republican tax tained high growth and new jobs. scam love company, and they just got Mr. Speaker, job creators and inves- b 1300 the company of 14 United States Sen- tors know that the Tax Cuts and Jobs Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 ators who will personally benefit from Act will create lasting economic minute to the gentleman from Illinois a new 20 percent deduction for wealthy

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.052 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10207 real estate investors with no employees those who believe in the hope of this is happening in America today? I to pass that benefit on to. country, even greater, looking at this thought the reports I would get would One Senator who voted against the bill, Broadcom said they are coming be a little different. bill, before he announced he was voting back to America. Do you know what they said to me? for it, stands to gain $7 million annu- Mr. Speaker, you know what that They said: America is back. You are ally and personally. The Senator said means? $20 billion in revenue in just a now tackling big items again. Not only he was unaware of the provision and year. That means $3 billion every year are you going to lead your own coun- that he did not read the bill. invested in R&D; $6 billion every year try, but you will help, again, lead the Mr. Speaker, the conference com- invested in manufacturing. Those are world. They were fearful of the committee, the reconciliation process, was jobs we all dream about, and the action petition of rising America one more to narrow the differences between of this bill is making it happen. time. these two bad bills, not add new provi- You can see it in the faces of families So don’t vote for the status quo. Vote sions that benefit rich Senators. This who learn that next year thousands of for a tax cut. Vote for reform. Don’t bad bill just took a dramatic and po- dollars that they earn won’t go vote because some leader whipped you tentially illegal turn that should be straight to Washington; it will actually and intimidated you. Vote for your fully investigated before a vote is stay right at home. And this is all in constituents. Vote for your country, taken today. an environment of disinformation and and vote to raise the paychecks of Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I fear-mongering. I mean, I have seen America. yield 1 minute to the gentleman from what has been said, and, to me, it is ab- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, the stock California (Mr. MCCARTHY), the major- surd. market has been going up since March ity leader of the House. Mr. Speaker, Leader PELOSI said that of 2009, and we have had 88 straight Mr. MCCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, before this bill was, and I quote, ‘‘Armaged- months of economic growth. I begin, I want to thank the gentleman. don’’ and ‘‘the end of the world.’’ Now, Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the Today, we will take a vote that every Mr. Speaker, I listened a great deal to gentlewoman from Alabama (Ms. SE- Member on this floor will remember. what my counterpart on the other side, WELL). The country will remember. Then next the minority leader, has said, and I Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. Mr. Speak- year, when people check their checks have read when The Washington Post er, the Republican majority is ram- and realize they have more money, analyzed what she had said. ming this tax bill through, calling it a they are going to remember who voted Now, when you say something that Christmas gift to the American people. for status quo and who voted to make could be a little off and don’t have all I have never seen such intellectual dis- America’s comeback. the information, they have this rating honesty in my life. It is more like the I want to thank the chairman, KEVIN for you. She has had a rating on this. Grinch who stole Christmas. BRADY, for that work. She did not get one Pinocchio. She did In poll after poll and through elec- Now, Mr. Speaker, a month ago, not even get two. She didn’t even get tions in New Jersey, Virginia, and my when the House passed an earlier the extreme of three. She got the most home State of Alabama, the American version of this bill, I said that, for all Pinocchios you can say when it is to- people continue to send a message that the jobless, for everyone who hasn’t tally false, four, for her conversation they do not want this tax bill to move gotten a raise in years, for the parents, about this bill. forward. But here we are watching the for the small-business owners, and for Mr. Speaker, in such times when the fiscal hawks of the Republican Party anyone who ever dreamed of being that other side will say anything to win blow through every red light on the entrepreneur and a small-business their political game, I recommend that way off the cliff, adding $1.5 trillion to owner, we heard you. This bill is the folks actually look at the bill: doubling the deficit. start of their comeback, and when they the standard deduction; lowering rates; What is the rush, I ask you. Last win, well, that is the start of America’s simplifying the Code so you don’t week, the American people in my home comeback. spend weeks, you spend minutes; dou- State of Alabama spoke up and spoke Our country has faced some tough bling the child tax credit; ending the out. We deserve to have our duly elect- times. I don’t have to tell you about individual mandate; lowering taxes on ed Senator to vote on this bill. that. And for too long, year after year, small businesses to the lowest it has What is the rush? Not one hearing, more and more Americans gave up been in 40 years; creating incentives for not one expert testifying, and no reg- hope. They were out of work. Or maybe business to invest and hire. That is not ular order. I ask you, Mr. Speaker, they had a job, but they could not see a recipe for Armageddon. That is hope what is the rush? past the next month or even the next for a nation to come back. I believe the rush is because they week. They watched factories and busi- The American people see through all know this is not tax reform. It is a tax nesses close up shop and move out, this rhetoric, and they are going to feel sham. The American people deserve even moving out of the country. it next year when they check their better. My constituents from Alabama Nobody wants to see their commu- paychecks and they see they keep more deserve better. We should vote ‘‘no’’ on nities hollow out. Nobody wants to feel money because of the vote today. They this tax bill. like they live in a nation in decline. are going to feel it next year and the Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I That is not who Americans are. Frank- years after and when they get that yield 1 minute to the gentleman from ly, Mr. Speaker, we are not a country raise they have been waiting for. They Missouri (Mr. SMITH), the secretary of that gives up on hope. This legislation are going to feel it more and more as the Republican Conference. and the Republican Party’s entire eco- companies announce coming back Mr. SMITH of Missouri. Mr. Speaker, nomic plan, they are giving people home. They are bringing jobs right I am proud to represent the folks of hope. back to the USA. They are going to southeast Missouri. The district that I You can see it in the stock market. feel it when we start looking to the fu- represent, the average median income For every American who vests their re- ture not with fear, but with hope. is right at $40,000. It is one of the low- tirement in a 401(k), 84 times it has set I won’t accept the status quo. But est average median incomes in the a new record since last year’s election there will be some in this body who country. alone. will vote for the status quo. I won’t ac- I have asked my folks back home, You can see it in companies like cept failure. just last week, if they support this tax Broadcom. You know, Broadcom was a Now, I do not believe anybody in this bill, and, in fact, 67 percent say they company created in America, but they body was elected to preside over Amer- support the Trump tax bill. Mr. Speak- are not domiciled here today. They ica’s decline. I recently was overseas, er, $40,000 back home is a salary. It is moved to Singapore simply over our and I was sitting at a dinner table with not a Christmas bonus that people get Tax Code. some elected leaders from other coun- in New York City or California. $40,000 So for those who want the status quo tries, some Americans who were work- is their salary. and want to keep Broadcom in another ing in other countries, and I asked Mr. Speaker, let me give you some country, go ahead and vote ‘‘no.’’ For them: What is the impression of what facts: Mr. Speaker, the first $24,000

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.054 H19DEPT1 H10208 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 that people earn in southeast Missouri Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to the cost of raising children. For stu- will be at a zero percent tax rate. A make history and support this momen- dents struggling with debt, the bill pre- family of four that makes $55,000 will tous bill. serves the student loan interest deduc- pay zero in income tax. Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 tion and graduate students will con- When you look at a median average minute to the gentlewoman from Cali- tinue to receive tuition tax waivers tax income in southeast Missouri being fornia (Ms. JUDY CHU), the former rev- free. $40,000, we are winners. What you are enue commissioner of the State of Cali- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 30 hearing on the other side is complete, fornia, who is going to tell us about the seconds to the gentlewoman from New false, and absolute lies. State and local tax deduction ending. York (Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ), who will tell us Mr. Speaker, I ask this body to sup- Ms. JUDY CHU of California. Mr. about the great harm that this does to port the conference committee. Speaker, we were promised a middle New York and to the island of Puerto Rico. Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 class tax cut. This is not it. What we ´ minute to the gentlewoman from have instead are tax cuts for the Ms. VELAZQUEZ. Mr. Speaker, after Hurricane Maria, Members of Congress Washington (Ms. DELBENE), who is very wealthiest paid for by the rest. successful. So what happened? on both sides of the aisle, including the Republican leadership, went to Puerto Ms. DELBENE. Mr. Speaker, in this Maybe Trump thinks multimillion- tax bill, Republicans have gifted the aires are the middle class or maybe Rico. They looked the Puerto Rican people in the eye and promised to help. wealthiest corporations and individuals this all is just a tax scam. This bill betrays that promise. It To see how working families will pay with massive new tax cuts and loop- treats Puerto Rico as a foreign juris- for corporate interest, all you have to holes to take advantage of. But when I diction, levying new taxes on compa- do is read the bill, which is hard to do, go home to my district, there isn’t a nies operating there, creating incen- mother working two jobs to put food because it was written overnight be- tives for them to leave the island. All on the table or a farmer struggling hind closed doors. told, these provisions will cost Puerto through a bad year or a senior trying Tax cuts: they reduce the tax rate for Rico more than 200,000 jobs. to pay for a prescription who has ever the wealthiest from 39.6 percent to 37 That is how they help Puerto Rico? told me that tax reform means cor- percent. This bill is morally bankrupt. It porate cuts on the backs of them and State and local taxes: they cap the harms American citizens everywhere, their families. deduction to just $10,000. But in my especially the 3.5 American citizens in State of California, the average deduc- b 1315 Puerto Rico. Vote ‘‘no.’’ tion is $18,500, meaning families will be Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I They know Republicans always forced to pay taxes now on twice their yield 1 minute to the gentleman from promise that the benefits will trickle income in order to give a staggering Arizona (Mr. SCHWEIKERT). down to working people, but they never tax break to corporations. Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I do and they never will. What is worse, So hear this: 83 percent of the bene- thank the chairman for yielding. Republicans have made it clear that fits of this bill goes to the top 1 per- Mr. Speaker, I am going to give ev- cuts to Social Security, Medicare, and cent. eryone a slightly different view. Medicaid are next. Who gets cut? There was an interesting editorial This bill takes care of corporate spe- Seniors, families, children. this weekend in The Wall Street Jour- cial interests, the wealthy, and the Is this the right thing to do? nal, and it basically said: Hey, those on well connected, while putting middle The answer is a resounding no. the left look at income inequality. class Americans’ finances and Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I Those on the right, we look at eco- healthcare on the chopping block. yield 1 minute to the gentleman from nomic expansion, economic growth. We need tax reform that helps middle Michigan (Mr. BISHOP). They are both honorable, but if you class families. This bill does the exact Mr. BISHOP of Michigan. Mr. Speak- actually look at the data of the last 10 opposite. I urge my colleagues to oper, I rise in support of the Tax Cuts and years and our own CBO projections of pose it. Jobs Act today. the next 10 years, 1.8 percent GDP, we Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I At its core, reforming our Nation’s are in incredible trouble, because you yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman Tax Code is about how we, the policy- actually look at what happens when from Indiana (Mrs. WALORSKI). makers, view the role of government in you have this flatlined economic ex- Mrs. WALORSKI. Mr. Speaker, I rise our economy and society. pansion and growth, and income in- in strong support today of H.R. 1, the Over the past 10 years, the American equality gets dramatically worse. You Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. people have seen a stagnant economy look at the charts when we have had If you believe the rhetoric you hear, and a steady decline in labor force par- times of economic growth, it closes and you may think this bill means the ticipation. Meanwhile, the government everyone gets a better chance. If you actually do care about the world is ending. I guarantee you, it is has grown to an unprecedented level, promises we as a government have not. the economy has slowed, and our debt made to retirees, working people, vet- The truth is this tax cut bill means a has nearly tripled. All the while, gov- erans, young people, we will not have brighter future for the hardworking ernment has given away sweetheart the resources if we continue for the people and hardworking Americans deals to select companies, leaving Main next 30 years, as our own CBO says, of who will have more money in their Street job providers to hold the bag. 1.8 percent growth. Status quo is dev- pockets and a better shot at the Amer- But all of that ends today. Today we astating. ican Dream. reduce the burden on job creators and Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 Here are the facts: we are cutting families. Today we create an environ- minutes to the gentleman from South taxes for Americans at all income lev- ment that will generate real economic Carolina (Mr. CLYBURN), the assistant els. We are doubling the standard de- growth. Democratic leader. duction. We are doubling the child tax The conference committee report be- Mr. CLYBURN. Mr. Speaker, I thank credit and preserving the adoption tax fore us today is about our constituents, the gentleman for yielding me this credit. We are keeping deductions for about allowing our constituents and time. charitable giving, mortgage interest, neighbors to keep more of their hard- Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposi- medical expenses, and student loan in- earned money. For starters, we double tion to the Ryan-McConnell tax scam terest. We are improving 529 education the standard deduction, which means bill. This bill should be named the ‘‘Re- plans and leaving retirement savings for joint filers, the first $24,000 of their publican Donor Class Relief Act’’ be- alone. People will be able to keep more income is free from Federal income tax cause that is what it is, and several of of their money they earn and spend liability. That is real money back in my Republican colleagues and many in less time filing their taxes. the pockets of working class families the media have admitted as much. Mr. Speaker, this isn’t just a good across America. This tax scam represents a grotesque bill, this is a great bill. This isn’t the The plan expands the child tax credit set of priorities revealing deep deprav- Apocalypse. It is a new day in America. to $2,000 per child to help families with ity of American values. One of the first

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.055 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10209 principles of our Judeo-Christian value Mr. Speaker, today we choose what vote, when they will cheer at the end of system is grounded in what we do ‘‘for kind of country America will be: one this vote, they will stand up and cheer, the least of these.’’ that champions the ladders of oppor- adding trillions to the national debt in From the outset, this bill violates tunity for all or one that reinforces the order to give tax breaks to the wealthi- that principle by lowering the mar- power of the wealthiest and well con- est 1 percent and to big corporations. ginal tax rates on the wealthiest nected. They will cheer that. among us by 2.6 points, while raising Outside the Congress, the American They will cheer when they say we those rates on the least among us by 2 people have already made their deci- can’t afford to protect the health of points. sion. Polling shows that Americans op- our innocent children. They will cheer This tax scam bill adds insult to that pose the GOP tax scam by a margin of that. injurious act by doubling the estate 2 to 1. Hardworking families see right Remember, they will cheer when tax exemption from $11 million to $22 through the brazen con job Republicans they tell you we can’t afford the next million. are trying to sell them. step, we can’t afford Medicaid, Medi- The Republicans add further insult to So why aren’t our Republican col- care, and a dignified retirement our injury by lowering the tax rates for leagues standing with their constitu- seniors spent a lifetime earning. That corporations by 14 points while raising ents? Why aren’t they joining us on in- is an applause line for them. tax rates on 86 million middle-income sisting on A Better Deal for American Remember this day when Repub- families. It makes the tax cuts for cor- families? Why aren’t they joining us in licans cheer for a bill that hands a $4,000 child tax credit to families of porations permanent and the miniscule demanding that we write real bipar- four earning $400,000 a year. If you earn individual cuts temporary, while also tisan tax reform that puts the middle $400,000 a year, you get $4,000 in a child kicking 13 million people off their class first? health insurance and increasing pre- Because helping the middle class has tax credit. miums for millions more. never been their goal. b 1330 The tax scam caps deductions for From day one, the donors, lobbyists, State and local taxes and home mort- But if you are poor, a single mom, a and the wealthy and well connected mother of two earning only $14,500, gages and adds over $2 trillion to the came first. The Frankenstein monster deficit. Our children and grandchildren guess how much you get? of giveaways and special interest loop- Seventy-five dollars. Seventy-five will be left with the bill. holes we are voting on today proves it, dollars. Mr. Speaker, history will not treat and this monster will come back to Today we gather on this floor in the kindly the crass cruelty of this so- haunt them, as Frankenstein did. midst of a holy season. In this season, called Christmas gift for hardworking Republicans claim that their bill is a we celebrate the miraculous blessings Americans. middle class tax cut. The fact is, ac- of God. We reflect on the wondrous joy Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I cording to the Tax Policy Center, their of children and our responsibility to yield 1 minute to the gentleman from bill raises taxes on 86 million middle them. Pennsylvania (Mr. ROTHFUS). class households. We remember our duty to live justly. Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in When The Washington Post asked For those of us blessed to serve in this support of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. Today we move away from a trickle- Edward Kleinbard, former chief of staff Congress, we must remember our special responsibility to govern fairly, to down government redistribution econ- for the Joint Committee on Taxation, meet the needs of all of God’s children. omy to one that is bottom up, organic, if the tax package in aggregate would In this holy time, the moral obscen- and growing. While the trickle-down mean a middle class tax cut, he said: ‘‘That is delusional or dishonest to say. ity and unrepentant greed of the GOP government of the last 8 years was tax scam stands out even more clearly. great for Washington and the 1 percent, It is factually untrue. The only group you can point to that wins year after As the U.S. Conference of Catholic it did little for the rest of the country. Bishops said early on, ‘‘. . . this pro- Today we turn the tide and put year and wins in very large magnitude is the very highest incomes.’’ posal appears to be the first Federal in- money back in the pockets of hard- come tax modification in American working taxpayers and Main Street That is from the Joint Committee on Taxation former chief of staff. history that will raise income taxes on businesses. This bill gives immediate the working poor while simultaneously relief to moderate income and middle The only greater delusion in this bill is the ludicrous Republican insistence, providing a large tax cut to the class families. wealthy. This is simply unconscion- A single mom earning $41,000 with their claim that these giveaways to the wealthiest will pay for themselves. able.’’ one kid will see a tax cut of $1,300, They will be cheering it. Unconscion- while a family of four making $73,000 Bruce Bartlett is the architect of Jack Kemp’s supply-side economics. As able. Remember what the Bishops said. will get more than $2,000 back. Now, here, get back to the Repub- The questions are: Will we vote to- Bruce Bartlett has testified in our hearing and in public, when it comes to licans. This is in sharp contrast to the gether and put this money back into words of Senator HATCH. Now, he is the the pockets of hardworking Ameri- tax breaks for the wealthy paying for themselves, he said: chairman of the Finance Committee in cans? Or will we keep that money here the United States Senate and an au- It is not true. It is nonsense. It is BS. in wealthy Washington, D.C.? Will we thor of this bill. He said: ‘‘I have a vote together to level the global play- He said the whole words. rough time wanting to spend billions ing field for America’s businesses and In a few minutes, Republicans will and billions and trillions of dollars to end the unfair status quo that sends vote to explode catastrophically our help people who won’t help themselves, American companies and jobs overseas? national debt at minimum of $1.5 tril- won’t lift a finger, and expect the Fed- It is an easy choice, Mr. Speaker: lion, likely $2.2 trillion or more. eral Government to do everything.’’ vote ‘‘yes’’ on this bill and let’s make Where are the vaunted Republican How about that? America prosperous again. deficit hawks? Are they endangered? Tell that to the moms we just saw Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 Are they extinct? Do they care about speaking out with their children, chil- minute to the gentlewoman from Cali- the deficit when we pass giveaways for dren with disabilities, who wonder how fornia (Ms. PELOSI), the Democratic the rich and big corporations? this could be so cruel. leader. They don’t care about deficits, then. This is an act of misery, but not ac- Ms. PELOSI. Mr. Speaker, I thank Tax breaks for the rich, corporate tax cording to Senator HATCH. And that is the gentleman for yielding and I salute breaks: they don’t care about the def- in terms of getting back to our him for his extraordinary leadership icit. Bishops. In his encyclical, God is Love. and being a champion for America’s Do Republicans only care about the And I have said this to my colleagues working families. I commend him and deficit when the issue is helping chil- before, but with, obviously, no effect the Democratic members of the House dren, seniors, our veterans, who are a on the Republican side. Ways and Means Committee for put- large part of hardworking Americans? Pope Benedict quoted the urgent ting forth the facts on what is in this My colleagues, my fellow Americans, moral wisdom of St. Augustine 17 cen- bill. remember this vote. Remember the turies ago, my colleagues. Seventeen

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.057 H19DEPT1 H10210 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 centuries ago, St. Augustine said: ‘‘A is the higher wages and better jobs it They deserve a new Tax Code that al- State which is not governed according means for all Americans. lows them to compete and win any- to justice is just a bunch of thieves.’’ Last Friday, I toured a local com- where in the world, especially here at Pope Benedict went on to say: ‘‘The pany that makes the active ingredient home. State must inevitably face the ques- for certain drugs, yet the actual medi- When they compete and win, who de- tion of how justice can be achieved cine is not produced here. It is pro- cides where that money goes? here and now.’’ duced in Ireland. Today, Washington says spend it In his words, he cautioned against ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE overseas. Our new Tax Code says bring ‘‘the danger of certain ethical blind- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The it home, spend it here in America to ness caused by the dazzling effect of Chair has detected a disturbance in the grow our jobs, our paychecks, our com- power and special interests.’’ gallery in contravention of the law and munities. That is why this moment is Mr. Speaker, is there justice in a bill against the rules of the House. so important. that rewards corporations shipping The Sergeant at Arms will identify Opponents of this tax bill don’t really jobs overseas? Jobs of hardworking the person or persons responsible and worry about tax cuts for the rich. They American men and women and vet- have them escorted from the House worry about tax cuts for you because if erans, shipping those jobs overseas? Is Chamber. you spend your money, they can’t. If there justice in that? The gentleman from California (Mr. you have the first claim over your No, I don’t think so. MCCLINTOCK) is recognized for his re- earnings, they no longer do. And if Is there justice in a bill that spikes maining 20 seconds. your dreams come before theirs, every- healthcare premiums and may add 13 Mr. MCCLINTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I thing in Washington changes, every- million Americans to the ranks of the was saying that the actual medicine, thing. uninsured? the ingredient is produced here, but the Given a choice between the Federal No justice there. actual medicine is produced in Ireland, Government and you, we choose you, Is there justice in a bill that raises solely because of our uncompetitive the hardworking American taxpayers. taxes on 86 million middle class fami- corporate tax. We choose you, the only special inter- lies? Because of this tax reform, the com- est that truly matters. Here we are. Raises taxes on 86 mil- pany plans to grow dramatically here Americans deserve a Tax Code for a lion middle class families, and they try at home, employing hundreds of new new era of American prosperity. We de- to present the delusion that it is a mid- workers. That is what the Democrats liver on that promise because it is your dle class tax cut. mean by tax breaks for the wealthy. money. Is there justice in a bill that hands a The proof of these policies will come Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of breathtaking 83 percent of its benefits over the next year, and every American my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- to the wealthiest 1 percent of Ameri- will be able to decide for themselves if bers are reminded to address their re- cans? Eighty-three percent of its bene- they are better off because of it. I am fits to the top 1 percent? marks to the Chair. now highly confident their answer is Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Is there justice in a bill that explodes going to be a resounding ‘‘yes.’’ self the balance of my time. the national debt to give the wealthy Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I would like So, in 1 month, we have taken the en- and the well connected a break and to inquire as to how much time is retire revenue system of the country sticks the debt with our children? Is maining. without one public hearing, without that justice? The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- any witness testimony, without the so- I didn’t think you thought so. I wish 3 tleman from Massachusetts has 4 ⁄4 licitation of one expert. ‘‘We,’’ mean- our Republican colleagues would join minutes remaining. ing the Republican majority. They us. Mr. NEAL. I reserve the balance of have decided to go forward with this This GOP tax scam is simply theft, my time. reckless plan. monumental, brazen theft from the Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I Contrast this with Reagan and American middle class and from every yield myself 4 minutes. O’Neill and Rostenkowski and Pack- person who aspires to reach it. The Mr. Speaker, there is only one funda- wood in 1986. GOP tax scam is not a voice for an in- mental question today: Who gets to de- When Gephardt and Bradley first of- vestment in growth or jobs. It is a vote cide? When Americans work hard for fered their bill in 1982 on tax reform, 4 to install a permanent plutocracy in their money, who gets to decide what years ensued before the measure came our Nation. They will be cheering that you do with it? Is it you? Or is it some to the floor for passage, and, in that later. nameless, faceless government worker time, 450 witnesses offered testimony. It does violence to the vision of our here in Washington? Every expert from every nook and Founders. It disrespects the sacrifice of When a family with young children is cranny in America was invited to offer our men and women in uniform, who working feverishly to fund their kids’ their vision of what a better tax sys- are a large part of our middle class, future, who gets to decide how they tem might look like. And those indi- and to whom we owe a future worthy of spend their money: them or Wash- viduals—and I knew them all because I their sacrifice. It betrays the future ington? went to the committee when Mr. Ros- and betrays the aspirations of our chil- The single mom fighting every day tenkowski was the chairman—saw that dren. trying to get by and give a good life to as the fabled achievement of their time It morally demands a ‘‘no’’ vote from her daughter, who decrees where her in a bipartisan manner. every Member of this House of the peo- money goes? Do you know what else? ple. When a Main Street businessowner Secretary Reagan and Chief of Staff Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I works late into the night and through Jim Baker sat through the markups on yield 1 minute to the gentleman from the weekend, risking every penny they that tax reform measure. California (Mr. MCCLINTOCK). own to reach their dream, who gets Now, Secretary Mnuchin, instead, Mr. MCCLINTOCK. Mr. Speaker, I op- that meager profit each day? Does it go has said, nobody at the top will get a posed the original House bill because it to you, who earned it, exhausted at the tax cut. And then they cut the rate severely limited or abolished broad- end of a long day? Or is it grabbed by from 39.6 at the top to 37. Well, nobody based deductions, resulting in higher a Federal Government who doesn’t at the top will get a tax cut. taxes for many families in high-tax, even know your name except on April We are going to double the exemption high-cost States like California. 15? on this estate tax so that you might Thanks to Chairman BRADY’s leader- Our communities have watched their now keep $22 million rather than $11 ship, this bill has largely addressed companies, jobs, and futures move million, without any formalization of these objections and, in combination overseas for too long. Our local busi- taxation. with much lower rates, it assures that nesses have been fighting other coun- My friend, Mr. BRADY—and he is my nearly every California taxpayer will tries with one hand tied behind their friend—he spoke before about the peo- pay lower taxes. More important still back from an old, outdated Tax Code. ple’s money.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.059 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10211 Well, you know what the people’s re- his life to this moment and tax reform, We have got to understand that sponsibility is? our Speaker of the House. times are tough for a lot of people in A million new veterans from Iraq and Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, this country right now. Today, this is Afghanistan. That is the people’s re- I appreciate the gentleman yielding about how much better things can be. sponsibility. time to me. This is about more jobs, fair taxes. It is When we talk about responsibility First, I want to start off by thanking about bigger paychecks. It is about and the people’s money, Medicare is all of the members and the staff of the faster growth and upward mobility. It the people’s responsibility. Social Se- Ways and Means Committee for all of is about a strong economy that makes curity is the people’s responsibility. their hard work in putting this bill to- all of us stronger and healthier. Those As we celebrate the extension of life gether. I want to thank them for this. are the effects, those are the benefits, expectancy in America, Medicaid today I want to personally thank one of my of tax reform. now cares for people with dementia and predecessors from the Ways and Means Here is the heart of it, and here is Alzheimer’s disease. That is the peo- Committee, who helped lay the founda- why this is so vital that we do this. ple’s responsibility. tion to get us where we are today, and Here is what it speaks to and what I They have carefully taken theology that is Dave Camp. Dave Camp did a truly believe is a generational defining and wed it to science fiction. lot to help us get to where we are. moment for this Nation. Remember what we heard around I want to, most of all, commend and Our Tax Code is so broken that it un- here all these years? express my profound admiration to the dermines the very thing that makes Don’t worry, tax cuts pay for them- architect of this measure, Chairman our Nation exceptional in the first selves. That was the offering in 2001, KEVIN BRADY. place. It punishes hard work. It dis- $1.3 trillion worth of tax cuts. His endless patience and his persist- courages our entrepreneurial spirit. It Well, we get to 2003, another $1 tril- ence and his great demeanor have seen dims freedom and free enterprise. It lion worth of tax cuts. By the way, this through and gotten us to where we limits the potential of our own people. there was time in between for a repa- are today. When Americans see good jobs going triation holiday, at 51⁄4, all advertised My colleagues, this is a day I have away, when Americans wake up and on the basis of job creation, and layoffs been looking forward to for a long they see the companies that they grew ensued almost the next day. time. We are about to achieve some up with in their communities going really big things, things that the cyn- away, they wonder if we have lost b 1345 ics have scoffed at for years, decades something bigger. This money is going to be used for even; ideas that have been worked on The mission that drives us here stock buybacks and dividends. There for so long to help hardworking Ameri- today is to restore this beautiful Amer- will be little investment in this lost op- cans who have been left behind for too ican idea. What is that idea? That the portunity where we should have in- long. condition of your birth does not deter- vested in community colleges and vo- Today—today—we are giving the peo- mine the outcome of your life. You can cational education and apprenticeship ple of this country their money back. work hard, play by the rules, get programs. This is their money, after all. ahead, and make a better life for your- Six million jobs in America go unan- ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE selves and an even better one for your swered every single day because of a The SPEAKER pro tempore. The kids. skills alignment problem and also the Chair notes a disturbance in the gal- It is that sense of possibility. We horror of what opiate addiction has lery in contravention of the law and want people to be free to strive to done across the United States. It has against the rules of the House. make the most of their lives. We want sidelined 2 million people. The Sergeant at Arms will identify a country with the resilience to endure What they are telling us today is the the person or persons responsible and and tackle all of its challenges. following: We have got tax simplifica- have them escorted from the House Mr. Speaker, economic growth and tion. What happened to the postcard? Chamber before proceedings will re- job creation will not solve all of our As I said earlier, we are going to have sume. problems, but it will help make all of to carry around a billboard for tax sim- The Chair will also remind all per- our problems much easier to solve. plification to figure out what is in it. sons in the gallery that they are here This is the direction that we are choos- They keep talking about phase-ins and as guests of the House and that any ing here today because we know ex- phaseouts. I am telling you, we will all manifestation of approval or dis- actly where the status quo leads us. be passed out by the time they get approval of the proceedings in the For years, the powers that be have done with this. This is more com- House are in violation of the rules of blocked and stonewalled reform under plexity. the House. the umbrella of an arrogant, conde- And wait until people have a chance The Chair recognizes the gentleman scending, and paternalistic ideology— over the next few weeks to sort from Wisconsin, the Speaker of the an ideology that seeks to limit mobil- through what is in this bill. But here is House. ity, to limit aspirations, to accept less something you might give some Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, in our lives. It is a view of the world thought to: the bottom quintile, you I would simply like to remind my col- that sees life and the economy as a are going to get $60 a year. The second leagues and the Speaker that my zero-sum game. Your gain comes at my quintile, you are going to get $380 a minute can last for as long as I want it loss; therefore, we can’t do it. year. The top 1 percent, they are going to last. Look at where this got us: the worst to get $51,000 a year. The top 0.1 per- Mr. Speaker, as I was saying, today recovery since World War II, flat cent, they are going to get $193,000 a we are giving the people their money wages, and an economy just limping year, all in the name of middle class back. The bottom line here is the typ- along. Stagnation is a breeding ground tax relief. ical family making the median income for a class-based society where elites As we proceed to the holiday, they in America will get a $2,059 tax cut predetermine the outcome of our lives. are telling us this is their Christmas next year alone. What this is is real re- That is not the American idea. present. And you know what they are lief for families who are living pay- They will tell you this: Just hand doing with it? It is going to be Christ- check to paycheck, struggling to make over more freedom to the unelected bu- mas hangover debt, and they are put- ends meet. reaucrats, and they will figure it out, ting it on the credit card and adding They hear about the economy getting they know more, we will all just be $2.3 trillion to the Federal debt. better. They turn on the TV, and they okay. Hand over more of your hard- Merry Christmas. see the stock market going up, but now earned dollars to the IRS, and it will Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance we need to make sure that these people all be okay. of my time. in our communities and our country, There is your scam right there. We Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I who are struggling, see their own per- know, given the opportunity, there are yield 1 minute to the gentleman from sonal economy getting better, and that no limits to what our people, our fellow Wisconsin (Mr. RYAN), who has devoted is what this is all about. citizens, our brothers and sisters can

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.061 H19DEPT1 H10212 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 do. Yet for years now, this Tax Code This is one of those times to just eliminate jobs and drive down American has been skewed to the well connected, take a step back. Let’s just take a wages and salaries. full of special interest carve-outs and minute, collect ourselves, and step 4. The $1.5 trillion deficit that will be created loopholes. away from the noise. by the GOP Tax Scam will be used by the Re- Meanwhile, the hardworking family We talk a lot in this job about turn- publicans to justify devastating cuts in Medi- in America has got to jump through all ing points. There is no doubt that we care and Medicaid. the hoops that the IRS can muster. Re- are at one of those turning points right This Republican tax plan is even more toxic form means we bring rates down at now. This one will determine the kind to my constituents in the Eighteenth Congres- every level. We clear out these loop- of country we are going to have this sional District of Texas. holes so that people can just keep more century. Mr. Speaker, as you may know, my con- of what they earn in the first place, be- But too often, we have seen before stituents and others in Texas are still strug- cause it is their money in the first how doubt creeps in, how the tyranny gling to recover from the devastation caused place. No special favors, just basic fair- of short-term thinking takes over, and by Hurricane Harvey, the worst storm ever to ness. history—history—fails to turn. make landfall in the continental United States. Reform means simplification, too. There is, after all, a reason that this And by margins exceeding 90 percent, they Nearly 9 out of 10 Americans will still has not been done in 31 years. This reject: be able to do their taxes on the form really is a generational defining mo- 1. Any cuts to Medicare or Medicaid to fi- the size of a postcard. That is amazing. ment. And let’s let this generational nance tax cuts for wealthy corporations and And given the opportunity, there are defining moment be defined by opti- the top 1 percent; no limits to what our workers and our mism, not by fear; by the rising aspira- 2. Eliminating the mortgage interest deduc- entrepreneurs can do. tions of our people and not the doom tion; Yet while the world has changed, and gloom of managed decline that we 3. Eliminating the deductibility of state and while the world has become more com- have become too familiar with. local taxes; petitive, closer, smaller, our Tax Code This is our chance. This is our mo- 4. Eliminating existing deductions for stu- has not. Instead of leading, we have ment. Let’s turn at this turning point. dent loan interest or making taxable college been falling behind to the point where Let’s reclaim the principles that have endowment funds or college fellowships ex- we now are the worst in the industri- guided us for generations. Let’s recap- penses. alized world at how we tax our busi- ture our destiny for generations to Mr. Speaker, my constituents, and Ameri- nesses. cans across the country, oppose this unfair We tax our businesses a whole lot come so this beautiful story of the American idea is repeated and repeated Republican tax giveaway because nearly half more than our foreign competitors tax of the $1.7 trillion tax cut goes to just the top theirs. They win; we lose. That is not and passed on to the next generation, a nation more united, more confident, one percent. fair. In fact, the average annual tax cut for the more prosperous, and, Mr. Speaker, It is basically open season for our top one-tenth of one percent is $320,000; for more free. Pass this bill. competitors to come in and take our the top one percent it is $62,000, and for Mr. BRADY of Texas. Mr. Speaker, jobs overseas under the current Tax those earning $1 million a year it is $68,000. let’s pass this bill. Code. Reform means we go from the Nearly 25 percent of the tax cut goes to Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance back of the pack to the front of the households in just the top one-tenth of one of my time. pack. percent, who make at least $5 million a year Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a Instead of the slow growth that we (2027). have been slogging through for years, member of the Budget Committee, I rise in While super-wealthy corporations and indi- we want to get back to real sustained strong and unyielding opposition to the Con- viduals are reaping windfalls, millions of mid- economic growth. We want to build an ference Report for H.R. 1, the so-called ‘‘Tax dle-class and working families will see their opportunity economy where there is Cut and Jobs Act,’’ which more accurately taxes go up: more demand for higher paying jobs. should be called the ‘‘Republican Tax Scam 1. 13 million households face a tax increase That is the whole purpose of all of this. Act.’’ next year. Make sure that people can grow up and With this Conference Report House and 2. 45 million households face a tax increase reach their potential. Make sure that Senate Republicans have pulled off a near-im- in 2027. the jobs are there to give people the ca- possible feat: they have taken a bad bill and 3. 29 million households (21 percent) earn- reers they want so they can reach their made it worse, much worse. ing less than $100,000 a year see a tax in- potential, so their families can reach I oppose this cruel and immoral $1.7 trillion crease. their potential. That is why we are tax giveaway to wealthy corporations and the On average, families earning up to $86,000 doing this. top one percent because it raises taxes on annually would see a $794 increase in their This is, without question, the single poor, working, and middle class families; ex- tax liability, a significant burden on families most important thing we can do to, plodes the deficit by adding an additional $2.2 struggling to afford child care and balance once again, make America the best trillion over ten years; and will require an esti- their checkbook. place to do business. mated $5.4 trillion cut in funding for the pro- It is shocking, but not surprising, that under There is more than that in this bill. grams ordinary Americans depend on for this Republican tax scam, the total value of With this bill, were are finally restor- health security, educational opportunity, and tax cuts for just the top one percent is more ing the freedom to make our own economic progress. than the entire tax cut for the lower 95 percent healthcare choices. By repealing the Mr. Speaker, Americans are not fooled; they of earners. individual mandate at the heart of know trickle-down economics has never Put another way, those earning more than ObamaCare, we are giving back the worked, and they see right through this phony $912,000 a year will get more in tax cuts than freedom and the flexibility to buy the tax plan and recognize it for the scam that it 180 million households combined. healthcare that is right for you and is. The core of this Republican tax scheme is your family. That is why Americans reject this Repub- a massive tax cut from 35 percent to 20 per- Finally, we are doing something lican tax giveaway by an overwhelming 2:1 cent for corporations, but that is not the only truly to put America in the lead. We margin. way that the wealthy are rewarded. are doing something historic to develop Here are just a few of the myriad reasons The massive tax cuts for corporations are our own energy resources. Some people why this Republican Tax Scam is by far the permanent but temporary for working and mid- have been working here since I was in most unpopular tax measure ever considered dle-class families. the second grade on this project. After by the Congress: Another immoral aspect of this terrible tax decades and decades in this Chamber, 1. Raises taxes on 86 million middle class scam is that it abandons families that face nat- we are opening up a small, nonwilder- families; ural disasters or high medical costs by repeal- ness area of the Alaska National Wild- 2. Gives 83 percent of the tax cuts to the ing deductions for casualty losses and medical life Refuge for responsible develop- wealthiest 1 percent and explodes deficit by expenses. ment. It is the most ambitious step we $1.7 trillion; Mr. Speaker, in what universe does it make have taken in years to secure our own 3. Gives new tax breaks to corporations any sense to eliminate, as this bill would, a energy future. shipping American jobs overseas which will deduction for:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.063 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10213 1. teachers who purchase supplies for their This tax scam is not a revenue policy adapt- Adoption of the conference report, if classroom; ed for the real world that real Americans live ordered; and 2. moving expenses to take a new job and in but a fantasy resting on the monstrous be- Suspending the rules and passing taxes employer-provided moving expenses; or lief that the wealthy have too little money and H.R. 4323. 3. dependent care assistance, making it that poor, working, and middle-class families The vote was taken by electronic de- harder for families to afford day care, nursery have too much. vice, and there were—yeas 191, nays school, or care for aging parents? Our Republican friends continue to cling to 236, not voting 4, as follows: This Republican tax scam jeopardizes the fantasy belief that their tax cuts for the rich [Roll No. 691] American innovation and competitiveness by will pay for themselves despite all precedent YEAS—191 eliminating the deduction for student loan in- to the contrary and evidence that their tax terest, which affects 12 million borrowers, and scheme is projected by experts to lose be- Adams Gallego Norcross cuts total education assistance by more than Aguilar Garamendi O’Halleran tween $3 trillion and $7 trillion. Barraga´ n Gomez O’Rourke $64 billion. Mr. Speaker, in evaluating the merits of a Bass Gonzalez (TX) Pallone Under the extraordinary leadership of Presi- taxing system, it is not enough to subject it Beatty Gottheimer Panetta Bera Green, Al dent Obama and the determined efforts of or- only to the test of fiscal responsibility. Pascrell dinary Americans, we pulled our way out from Beyer Green, Gene Payne To keep faith with the nation’s past, to be Bishop (GA) Grijalva Pelosi ´ under the worst of the foreclosure crisis when fair to the nation’s present, and to safeguard Blumenauer Gutierrez Perlmutter the housing bubble burst in 2007. the nation’s future, the plan must also pass a Blunt Rochester Hanabusa Peters Bonamici Hastings Inexplicably, Republicans are now cham- Peterson ‘‘moral test.’’ Boyle, Brendan Heck Pingree pioning a tax scheme that will make the The Republican tax bill fails both of these F. Higgins (NY) Polis homes of average Americans less valuable Brady (PA) Himes standards. Price (NC) Brown (MD) Hoyer because deductions for mortgage interest and I strongly oppose the Conference Report to Quigley property taxes are much less valuable than Brownley (CA) Huffman H.R. 1, the ‘‘Republican Tax Scam Act,’’ and Bustos Jackson Lee Raskin under current law. urge all Members to join me in voting against Butterfield Jayapal Rice (NY) A tax plan that reduces home values, as this reckless, cruel, and heartless proposal Capuano Jeffries Richmond this one does, puts pressure on states and Carbajal Johnson (GA) Rosen that will do nothing to improve the lives or Ca´ rdenas Johnson, E. B. Roybal-Allard towns to collect revenues they depend on to well-being of middle and working class fami- Carson (IN) Kaptur Ruiz fund schools, roads, and vital public relies, and the poor and vulnerable ‘caught in Cartwright Keating Ruppersberger sources. the tentacles of circumstance.’ Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) Rush Mr. Speaker, an estimated 2.8 million Texas Castro (TX) Khanna Ryan (OH) The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time Chu, Judy Kihuen Sa´ nchez households deduct state and local taxes with for debate has expired. Cicilline Kildee Sarbanes an average deduction of $7,823 in 2015. Pursuant to House Resolution 667, Clark (MA) Kilmer Schakowsky But this is not the end of the bad news that the previous question is ordered on the Clarke (NY) Kind Schiff Clay Krishnamoorthi will be delivered were this tax scam to be- conference report. Schneider come law, not by a long shot. Cleaver Kuster (NH) Schrader MOTION TO RECOMMIT Clyburn Langevin Scott (VA) The proposed elimination of the personal Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I have a mo- Cohen Larsen (WA) Scott, David exemption will harm millions of Texans by tak- Connolly Larson (CT) tion to recommit at the desk. Serrano Cooper Lawrence Sewell (AL) ing away the $4,050 deduction for each tax- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is the payer and claimed dependent; in 2015, rough- Correa Lawson (FL) Shea-Porter gentleman opposed to the conference Costa Lee Sherman ly 9.3 million dependent exemptions were report? Courtney Levin Sinema Crist Lewis (GA) claimed in the Lone Star State. Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, I certainly Sires Equally terrible is that this Republican tax Crowley Lieu, Ted Slaughter am. Cuellar Lipinski Smith (WA) scam drastically reduces the Earned Income The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Cummings Loebsack Tax Credit, which encourages work for 2.7 mil- Soto Clerk will report the motion to recom- Davis (CA) Lofgren Speier Davis, Danny Lowenthal lion low-income individuals in Texas, helping Suozzi mit. DeFazio Lowey them make ends meet with an average credit Swalwell (CA) The Clerk read as follows: DeGette Lujan Grisham, Takano of $2,689. Delaney M. Mr. Neal moves to recommit the con- Thompson (CA) The EITC and the Child Tax Credit lift about DeLauro Luja´ n, Ben Ray ference report on the bill H.R. 1 to the com- Thompson (MS) 1.2 million Texans, including 663,000 children, DelBene Lynch mittee of conference with instructions to the Demings Maloney, Titus out of poverty each year. managers on the part of the House to dis- DeSaulnier Carolyn B. Tonko So to achieve their goal of giving more and agree to section 11042 and part VIII of sub- Deutch Maloney, Sean Torres more to the haves and the ‘‘have mores,’’ our title A of title I of the conference substitute Dingell Matsui Tsongas Republican friends are willing to betray sen- recommended by such committee. Doggett McCollum Vargas Doyle, Michael McEachin Veasey iors, children, the most vulnerable and needy, Mr. BRADY of Texas (during the F. McGovern Vela and working and middle-class families. reading). Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous Ellison McNerney Vela´ zquez The $5.4 trillion cuts in program investments consent to dispense with the reading. Engel Meeks Visclosky that will be required to pay for this tax give- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Eshoo Meng Walz Espaillat Moore Wasserman away to wealthy corporations and individuals objection to the request of the gen- Esty (CT) Moulton Schultz will fall most heavily on low-income families, tleman from Texas? Evans Murphy (FL) Waters, Maxine -students struggling to afford college, seniors, There was no objection. Foster Nadler Watson Coleman and persons with disabilities. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The mo- Frankel (FL) Napolitano Welch Fudge Neal Wilson (FL) America will not be made great by financing tion is not debatable. Gabbard Nolan Yarmuth a $1.7 trillion tax cut for the rich by stealing Without objection, the previous ques- $1.8 trillion from Medicare and Medicaid, tion is ordered on the motion to recom- NAYS—236 abandoning seniors and families in need, de- mit. Abraham Blum Collins (NY) Aderholt Bost Comer priving students of realizing a dream to attend There was no objection. Allen Brady (TX) Comstock college without drowning in debt, or The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Amash Brooks (AL) Conaway disinvesting in the working families. question is on the motion. Amodei Brooks (IN) Cook America will not be positioned to compete The question was taken; and the Arrington Buchanan Costello (PA) Babin Buck Cramer and win in the global, interconnected, and dig- Speaker pro tempore announced that Bacon Bucshon Crawford ital economy by slashing funding for scientific the noes appeared to have it. Banks (IN) Budd Culberson research, the arts and humanities, job retrain- Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, on that I de- Barletta Burgess Curbelo (FL) ing, and clean energy just to pay for a tax cut mand the yeas and nays. Barr Byrne Curtis Barton Calvert Davidson to corporations and individuals who do not The yeas and nays were ordered. Bergman Carter (GA) Davis, Rodney even need it. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Biggs Carter (TX) Denham Mr. Speaker, the tax scheme presented ant to clause 8 and clause 9 of rule XX, Bilirakis Chabot Dent here by Republicans is not a plan but a scam this 15-minute vote on the motion to Bishop (MI) Cheney DeSantis Bishop (UT) Coffman DesJarlais that represents a betrayal of our values as a recommit will be followed by 5-minute Black Cole Diaz-Balart nation. votes on: Blackburn Collins (GA) Donovan

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.022 H19DEPT1 H10214 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 Duffy Kinzinger Rokita So the motion to recommit was re- Wittman Yoder Young (IA) Duncan (SC) Knight Rooney, Francis jected. Womack Yoho Duncan (TN) Kustoff (TN) Rooney, Thomas Woodall Young (AK) Dunn Labrador J. The result of the vote was announced Emmer LaHood Ros-Lehtinen as above recorded. NAYS—203 Estes (KS) LaMalfa Roskam Adams Garamendi Norcross Farenthold Lamborn The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Ross question is on the conference report. Aguilar Gomez O’Halleran Faso Lance Rothfus Barraga´ n Gonzalez (TX) O’Rourke Ferguson Latta Rouzer The question was taken; and the Bass Gottheimer Pallone Fitzpatrick Lewis (MN) Royce (CA) Speaker pro tempore announced that Beatty Green, Al Panetta Fleischmann LoBiondo Russell Bera Green, Gene Pascrell Flores Long the ayes appeared to have it. Rutherford Beyer Grijalva Fortenberry Loudermilk Payne Sanford Mr. NEAL. Mr. Speaker, on that I de- Bishop (GA) Gutie´rrez Foxx Love Pelosi Scalise mand the yeas and nays. Blumenauer Hanabusa Frelinghuysen Lucas Perlmutter Schweikert Blunt Rochester Hastings Gaetz Luetkemeyer The yeas and nays were ordered. Peters Scott, Austin Bonamici Heck Peterson Gallagher MacArthur The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Boyle, Brendan Higgins (NY) Sensenbrenner Pingree Garrett Marchant F. Himes Sessions 5-minute vote. Polis Gianforte Marino Brady (PA) Hoyer Shimkus The vote was taken by electronic de- Price (NC) Gibbs Marshall Brown (MD) Huffman Shuster Quigley Gohmert Massie vice, and there were—yeas 227, nays Brownley (CA) Issa Simpson Raskin Goodlatte Mast 203, not voting 2, as follows: Bustos Jackson Lee Gosar McCarthy Smith (MO) Rice (NY) [Roll No. 692] Butterfield Jayapal Gowdy McCaul Smith (NE) Capuano Jeffries Richmond Granger McClintock Smith (NJ) YEAS—227 Carbajal Johnson (GA) Rohrabacher Graves (GA) McHenry Smith (TX) Ca´ rdenas Johnson, E. B. Rosen Graves (LA) McKinley Smucker Abraham Gianforte Mullin Roybal-Allard Aderholt Gibbs Newhouse Carson (IN) Jones Graves (MO) McMorris Stefanik Cartwright Kaptur Ruiz Griffith Rodgers Stewart Allen Gohmert Noem Ruppersberger Amash Goodlatte Norman Castor (FL) Keating Grothman McSally Stivers Rush Amodei Gosar Nunes Castro (TX) Kelly (IL) Guthrie Meadows Taylor Ryan (OH) Arrington Gowdy Olson Chu, Judy Khanna Handel Meehan Tenney Sa´ nchez Babin Granger Palazzo Cicilline Kihuen Harper Messer Thompson (PA) Sarbanes Bacon Graves (GA) Palmer Clark (MA) Kildee Harris Mitchell Thornberry Schakowsky Banks (IN) Graves (LA) Paulsen Clarke (NY) Kilmer Hartzler Moolenaar Tiberi Schiff Barletta Graves (MO) Pearce Clay Kind Hensarling Mooney (WV) Schneider Tipton Barr Griffith Perry Cleaver King (NY) Herrera Beutler Mullin Trott Clyburn Krishnamoorthi Schrader Hice, Jody B. Newhouse Barton Grothman Pittenger Turner Bergman Guthrie Poe (TX) Cohen Kuster (NH) Scott (VA) Higgins (LA) Noem Upton Connolly Lance Scott, David Hill Norman Biggs Handel Poliquin Valadao Cooper Langevin Serrano Holding Nunes Bilirakis Harper Posey Wagner Correa Larsen (WA) Sewell (AL) Hollingsworth Olson Bishop (MI) Harris Ratcliffe Walberg Costa Larson (CT) Shea-Porter Hudson Palazzo Bishop (UT) Hartzler Reed Walden Courtney Lawrence Sherman Huizenga Palmer Black Hensarling Reichert Walker Crist Lawson (FL) Sinema Hultgren Paulsen Blackburn Herrera Beutler Renacci Crowley Lee Sires Hunter Pearce Walorski Blum Hice, Jody B. Rice (SC) Cuellar Levin Slaughter Hurd Perry Walters, Mimi Bost Higgins (LA) Roby Weber (TX) Brady (TX) Hill Roe (TN) Cummings Lewis (GA) Smith (NJ) Issa Pittenger Davis (CA) Lieu, Ted Jenkins (KS) Poe (TX) Webster (FL) Brat Holding Rogers (AL) Smith (WA) Wenstrup Bridenstine Hollingsworth Rogers (KY) Davis, Danny Lipinski Soto Jenkins (WV) Poliquin DeFazio LoBiondo Johnson (LA) Posey Westerman Brooks (AL) Hudson Rokita Speier Williams Brooks (IN) Huizenga Rooney, Francis DeGette Loebsack Stefanik Johnson (OH) Ratcliffe Delaney Lofgren Wilson (SC) Buchanan Hultgren Rooney, Thomas Suozzi Johnson, Sam Reed DeLauro Lowenthal Wittman Buck Hunter J. Swalwell (CA) Jones Reichert DelBene Lowey Womack Bucshon Hurd Ros-Lehtinen Takano Jordan Renacci Demings Lujan Grisham, Woodall Budd Jenkins (KS) Roskam Thompson (CA) Joyce (OH) Rice (SC) DeSaulnier M. Yoder Burgess Jenkins (WV) Ross Thompson (MS) Katko Roby Deutch Luja´ n, Ben Ray Kelly (MS) Roe (TN) Yoho Byrne Johnson (LA) Rothfus Titus Calvert Johnson (OH) Rouzer Dingell Lynch Kelly (PA) Rogers (AL) Young (AK) Doggett Maloney, Tonko King (IA) Rogers (KY) Young (IA) Carter (GA) Johnson, Sam Royce (CA) Torres Carter (TX) Jordan Russell Donovan Carolyn B. King (NY) Rohrabacher Zeldin Doyle, Michael Maloney, Sean Tsongas Chabot Joyce (OH) Rutherford Vargas NOT VOTING—4 Cheney Katko Ryan (WI) F. Matsui Ellison McCollum Veasey Brat Kennedy Coffman Kelly (MS) Sanford Vela Cole Kelly (PA) Scalise Engel McEachin Bridenstine Pocan Eshoo McGovern Vela´ zquez Collins (GA) King (IA) Schweikert Visclosky ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Espaillat McNerney Collins (NY) Kinzinger Scott, Austin Walz Comer Knight Sensenbrenner Esty (CT) Meeks The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Wasserman Comstock Kustoff (TN) Sessions Evans Meng Schultz the vote). The Chair notes a disturb- Conaway Labrador Shimkus Faso Moore Waters, Maxine ance in the gallery in contravention of Cook LaHood Shuster Foster Moulton Watson Coleman Costello (PA) LaMalfa Simpson Frankel (FL) Murphy (FL) the law and against the rules of the Welch Cramer Lamborn Smith (MO) Frelinghuysen Nadler House. Wilson (FL) Crawford Latta Smith (NE) Fudge Napolitano The Sergeant at Arms will remove Culberson Lewis (MN) Smith (TX) Gabbard Neal Yarmuth the person or persons responsible from Curbelo (FL) Long Smucker Gallego Nolan Zeldin the House gallery. Curtis Loudermilk Stewart NOT VOTING—2 Davidson Love Stivers ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Davis, Rodney Lucas Taylor Kennedy Pocan The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Denham Luetkemeyer Tenney the vote). The Chair notes a disturb- Dent MacArthur Thompson (PA) ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE ance in the gallery in contravention of DeSantis Marchant Thornberry The SPEAKER pro tempore (during DesJarlais Marino Tiberi the law and against the rules of the Diaz-Balart Marshall Tipton the vote). The Chair notes a disturb- House. Duffy Massie Trott ance in the gallery in contravention of The Sergeant at Arms will remove Duncan (SC) Mast Turner the law and against the rules of the the person or persons responsible from Duncan (TN) McCarthy Upton Dunn McCaul Valadao House. the House gallery. Emmer McClintock Wagner The Sergeant at Arms will remove ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Estes (KS) McHenry Walberg the person or persons responsible from The SPEAKER pro tempore (during Farenthold McKinley Walden Ferguson McMorris Walker the House gallery. the vote). There are 2 minutes remain- Fitzpatrick Rodgers Walorski ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE ing. Fleischmann McSally Walters, Mimi Flores Meadows Weber (TX) The SPEAKER pro tempore (during b 1420 Fortenberry Meehan Webster (FL) the vote). The Chair notes a disturb- Messrs. STEWART and REICHERT Foxx Messer Wenstrup ance in the gallery in contravention of Gaetz Mitchell Westerman changed their vote from ‘‘yea’’ to Gallagher Moolenaar Williams the law and against the rules of the ‘‘nay.’’ Garrett Mooney (WV) Wilson (SC) House.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.009 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10215 The Sergeant at Arms will ensure Gutie´rrez Marshall Rutherford b 1435 that the person or persons responsible Hanabusa Massie Ryan (OH) Handel Mast Sa´ nchez So (two-thirds being in the affirma- are escorted from the gallery. Harper Matsui Sanford tive) the rules were suspended and the Harris McCarthy Sarbanes bill, as amended, was passed. b 1427 Hartzler McCaul Scalise Hastings McClintock Schakowsky The result of the vote was announced So the conference report was agreed Heck McCollum Schiff as above recorded. to. Hensarling McEachin Schneider A motion to reconsider was laid on The result of the vote was announced Herrera Beutler McGovern Schrader Hice, Jody B. McHenry the table. as above recorded. Schweikert Higgins (LA) McKinley Scott (VA) f A motion to reconsider was laid on Higgins (NY) McMorris Scott, Austin the table. Hill Rodgers Scott, David ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER Himes McNerney Sensenbrenner PRO TEMPORE Holding McSally f Sessions Hollingsworth Meadows Sewell (AL) The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Hoyer Meehan Shea-Porter BYRNE). Pursuant to clause 8 of rule SUPPORTING VETERANS IN STEM Hudson Meeks Sherman CAREERS ACT Huffman Meng XX, the Chair will postpone further Shimkus Huizenga Messer proceedings today on motions to sus- The SPEAKER. The unfinished busi- Hultgren Mitchell Shuster Simpson pend the rules on which a recorded vote ness is the vote on the motion to sus- Hunter Moolenaar or the yeas and nays are ordered, or pend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. Hurd Mooney (WV) Sinema Sires votes objected to under clause 6 of rule 4323) to promote veteran involvement Issa Moore Jackson Lee Moulton Slaughter XX. in STEM education, computer science, Jayapal Mullin Smith (MO) Smith (NE) The House will resume proceedings and scientific research, and for other Jeffries Murphy (FL) on postponed questions at a later time. purposes, as amended, on which the Jenkins (KS) Nadler Smith (NJ) Jenkins (WV) Napolitano Smith (TX) f yeas and nays were ordered. Johnson (GA) Neal Smith (WA) The Clerk read the title of the bill. Johnson (LA) Newhouse Smucker HOUR OF MEETING ON TOMORROW Soto The SPEAKER. The question is on Johnson (OH) Noem Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- the motion offered by the gentleman Johnson, E. B. Nolan Speier Johnson, Sam Norcross Stefanik er, pursuant to clause 4 of rule XVI, I from Florida (Mr. DUNN) that the Jones Norman Stewart move that when the House adjourns House suspend the rules and pass the Jordan Nunes Stivers this legislative day, it adjourn to meet Joyce (OH) O’Halleran Suozzi bill, as amended. at 9 a.m. on Wednesday, December 20, This is a 5-minute vote. Kaptur O’Rourke Swalwell (CA) Katko Olson Takano 2017, for morning-hour debate and 10 The vote was taken by electronic de- Kelly (IL) Palazzo Taylor a.m. for legislative business. vice, and there were—yeas 420, nays 1, Kelly (MS) Pallone Tenney The motion was agreed to. not voting 10, as follows: Kelly (PA) Palmer Thompson (CA) Khanna Panetta Thompson (MS) f [Roll No. 693] Kihuen Pascrell Thompson (PA) YEAS—420 Kildee Paulsen Thornberry JOBS FOR OUR HEROES ACT Kilmer Payne Tiberi Abraham Cartwright Dingell Kind Pearce Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- Adams Castor (FL) Doggett Tipton er, I move to suspend the rules and King (IA) Pelosi Titus Aderholt Castro (TX) Donovan King (NY) Perlmutter pass the bill (S. 1393) to streamline the Aguilar Chabot Doyle, Michael Tonko Kinzinger Perry Torres process by which active duty military, Allen Cheney F. Knight Peters Trott Amodei Chu, Judy Duffy Krishnamoorthi Peterson reservists, and veterans receive com- Tsongas Babin Cicilline Duncan (SC) Kuster (NH) Pingree mercial driver’s licenses. Turner Bacon Clark (MA) Duncan (TN) Kustoff (TN) Pittenger Upton The Clerk read the title of the bill. Banks (IN) Clarke (NY) Dunn Labrador Poe (TX) Valadao Barletta Clay Ellison LaHood Poliquin The text of the bill is as follows: Vargas Barr Cleaver Emmer LaMalfa Polis S. 1393 Barraga´ n Clyburn Engel Veasey Lamborn Posey Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Barton Coffman Eshoo Lance Price (NC) Vela ´ Bass Cohen Espaillat Langevin Quigley Velazquez resentatives of the United States of America in Beatty Cole Estes (KS) Larsen (WA) Raskin Visclosky Congress assembled, Bera Collins (GA) Esty (CT) Larson (CT) Ratcliffe Wagner SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Bergman Collins (NY) Evans Latta Reed Walberg Beyer Comer Farenthold Walden This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Jobs for Our Lawrence Reichert Heroes Act’’. Biggs Comstock Faso Lawson (FL) Renacci Walker Bilirakis Conaway Ferguson Lee Rice (NY) Walorski SEC. 2. MEDICAL CERTIFICATE FOR VETERANS Bishop (GA) Connolly Fitzpatrick Levin Rice (SC) Walters, Mimi OPERATING COMMERCIAL MOTOR Bishop (UT) Cook Fleischmann Lewis (MN) Richmond Walz VEHICLES. Black Cooper Flores Lieu, Ted Roby Wasserman (a) QUALIFIED EXAMINERS.—Section Blackburn Correa Fortenberry Lipinski Roe (TN) Schultz 5403(d)(2) of the FAST Act (49 U.S.C. 31149 Blum Costa Foster LoBiondo Rogers (AL) Waters, Maxine note; 129 Stat. 1548) is amended to read as Blumenauer Costello (PA) Foxx Watson Coleman Loebsack Rogers (KY) follows: Blunt Rochester Courtney Frankel (FL) Lofgren Rohrabacher Weber (TX) Bonamici Cramer Frelinghuysen Long Rokita Webster (FL) ‘‘(2) QUALIFIED EXAMINER.—The term Bost Crawford Fudge Love Rooney, Francis Welch ‘qualified examiner’ means an individual Boyle, Brendan Crist Gabbard Lowenthal Rooney, Thomas Wenstrup who— F. Crowley Gallagher Lowey J. Westerman ‘‘(A) is employed by the Department of Brady (PA) Cuellar Gallego Lucas Ros-Lehtinen Williams Veterans Affairs as an advanced practice Brady (TX) Culberson Garamendi Luetkemeyer Rosen Wilson (FL) Brat Cummings Garrett nurse, doctor of chiropractic, doctor of medi- Lujan Grisham, Roskam Wilson (SC) cine, doctor of osteopathy, physician assist- Brooks (AL) Curbelo (FL) Gianforte M. Ross Wittman Brooks (IN) Curtis Gibbs Luja´ n, Ben Ray Rothfus Womack ant, or other medical professional; Brown (MD) Davidson Gohmert Lynch Rouzer Woodall ‘‘(B) is licensed, certified, or registered in Brownley (CA) Davis (CA) Gomez MacArthur Roybal-Allard Yarmuth a State to perform physical examinations; Buchanan Davis, Danny Gonzalez (TX) Maloney, Royce (CA) Yoder ‘‘(C) is familiar with the standards for, and Buck Davis, Rodney Goodlatte Carolyn B. Ruiz Yoho physical requirements of, an operator re- Bucshon DeFazio Gosar Maloney, Sean Ruppersberger Young (AK) Budd DeGette Gottheimer quired to be medically certified under sec- Marchant Rush Young (IA) tion 31149 of title 49, United States Code; and Burgess Delaney Gowdy Marino Russell Zeldin Bustos DeLauro Granger ‘‘(D) has never, with respect to such sec- Butterfield DelBene Graves (GA) NAYS—1 tion, been found to have acted fraudulently, Byrne Demings Graves (LA) including by fraudulently awarding a med- Amash Calvert Denham Graves (MO) ical certificate.’’. Capuano Dent Green, Al (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENTS.—Section Carbajal DeSantis Green, Gene NOT VOTING—10 Ca´ rdenas DeSaulnier Griffith Arrington Keating Pocan 5403 of the FAST Act (49 U.S.C. 31149 note; Carson (IN) DesJarlais Grijalva Bishop (MI) Kennedy Serrano 129 Stat. 1548) is amended— Carter (GA) Deutch Grothman Bridenstine Lewis (GA) (1) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘physi- Carter (TX) Diaz-Balart Guthrie Gaetz Loudermilk cian-approved veteran operator, the qualified

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.069 H19DEPT1 H10216 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 physician’’ and inserting ‘‘veteran operator ment of Veterans Affairs who could qualified medical professionals to par- approved by a qualified examiner, the quali- certify that veterans meet the physical ticipate. This bill ensures that these fied examiner’’; standards required to operate a com- medical professionals are eligible to (2) in subsection (b)(1)— mercial vehicle. use this process. (A) by striking ‘‘the physician’’ and inserting ‘‘the examiner’’; and These commonsense changes will The bill also ensures that current (B) by striking ‘‘qualified physician’’ and help remove barriers to employment servicemembers who have military ex- inserting ‘‘qualified examiner’’; for the men and women who have perience operating commercial motor (3) in subsection (c)— served our country in uniform. vehicles will be able to more easily ob- (A) by striking ‘‘qualified physicians’’ and This bill is a combination of H.R. tain a commercial driver’s license. inserting ‘‘qualified examiners’’; and 2547, the Veterans Expanded Trucking Congress included a provision in the (B) by striking ‘‘such physicians’’ and in- Opportunities Act of 2017, sponsored by FAST Act to allow States to waive the serting ‘‘such examiners’’; and Representative ROB WOODALL, and H.R. written CDL knowledge test for drivers (4) in subsection (d)— 2258, the ADVANCE Act, which is spon- (A) by redesignating paragraphs (1), (2), with military commercial motor vehi- and (3) as paragraphs (3), (1), and (2), respec- sored by Representative PETE AGUILAR. cle driving experience, but it restricts tively, and by moving the text of paragraph The House passed both bills under sus- this waiver to ‘‘former members’’ of (3), as redesignated, to appear after para- pension on June 26, 2017. The bill we the military. graph (2), as redesignated; and are considering today passed the Sen- There are a significant number of (B) in paragraph (3), as redesignated— ate by unanimous consent on Sep- current reservists and members of the (i) in the paragraph heading, by striking tember 14, which means this will head National Guard with military commer- ‘‘PHYSICIAN-APPROVED VETERAN OPERATOR’’ to the President’s desk once the House cial motor vehicle experience who and inserting ‘‘VETERAN OPERATOR APPROVED approves it. could benefit from the waiver. These BY A QUALIFIED EXAMINER’’; and (ii) by striking ‘‘physician-approved vet- Mr. Speaker, I would like to com- servicemen and -women receive what eran operator’’ and inserting ‘‘veteran oper- mend Mr. WOODALL and Mr. AGUILAR the FMCSA describes as ‘‘thorough and ator approved by a qualified examiner’’. for their leadership on the House bills comprehensive training,’’ including (c) RULEMAKING.—The amendments made and Senator CORNYN for his work in the many hours of behind-the-wheel train- by this section shall be incorporated into Senate. ing, something that I have long sought any rulemaking proceeding related to sec- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to and advocated for as a requirement for tion 5403 of the FAST Act (49 U.S.C. 31149 support S. 1393, and I reserve the bal- civilian drivers. These military drivers note; 129 Stat. 1548) that is being conducted ance of my time. as of the date of the enactment of this Act. already have it. Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield SEC. 3. COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S LICENSE STAND- FMCSA has already taken action to ARDS FOR CURRENT AND FORMER myself such time as I may consume. make current servicemembers eligible MEMBERS OF THE ARMED FORCES. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in for the knowledge test waiver on a Section 31305(d) of title 49, United States support of S. 1393, the Jobs for Our He- temporary basis. Last year, FMCSA Code, is amended— roes Act. issued an exemption that allows States (1) in the subsection heading, by striking This bill is a step in the right direc- to waive the CDL knowledge test for ‘‘VETERAN OPERATORS’’ and inserting ‘‘OPER- tion to help the Nation tackle the long- ATORS WHO ARE MEMBERS OF THE ARMED trained military truck drivers, whether standing commercial driver’s short- FORCES, RESERVISTS, OR VETERANS’’; they are current members of the mili- (2) in paragraph (1)(B), by striking ‘‘sub- age—a shortage that I must say I have tary or our veterans; however, paragraph (A) during, at least,’’ and insert- been working on ever since I have been FMCSA’s temporary exemption expires ing ‘‘subparagraph (A)— on this committee and especially since October 2018. ‘‘(i) while serving in the armed forces or re- becoming ranking member of the sub- serve components; and committee—and, of course, at the same b 1445 ‘‘(ii) during’’; and time, to support veterans in a success- This bill makes permanent the abil- (3) in paragraph (2)(B)— ful transition from military to civilian ity of current members of the military (A) by inserting ‘‘current or’’ before to utilize the FAST Act waiver. S. 1393 ‘‘former’’ each place the term appears; and life. (B) by inserting ‘‘one of’’ before ‘‘the re- S. 1393 ensures that all qualified med- is nearly identical to two bills the serve components’’. ical professionals employed by the De- House previously passed earlier this The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- partment of Veterans Affairs can per- year, H.R. 2547 and H.R. 2258, both of ant to the rule, the gentleman from form commercial driver physical ex- which passed by votes of 409–0, or Missouri (Mr. GRAVES) and the gentle- aminations for their veteran patients. unanimously. woman from the District of Columbia The medical professionals that this Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to support this legislation, and I reserve (Ms. NORTON) each will control 20 min- bill addresses are already eligible to utes. become certified medical examiners. the balance of my time. The Chair recognizes the gentleman This bill simply allows these individ- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- from Missouri. uals to utilize an alternative certifi- er, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman OODALL GENERAL LEAVE cation process that is currently being from Georgia (Mr. W ). Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- finalized by the Federal Motor Carrier Mr. WOODALL. Mr. Speaker, I want er, I ask unanimous consent that all Safety Administration. to thank my chairman for yielding me Members have 5 legislative days in The most recently available data the time. I want to thank him for his which to revise and extend their re- shows that, of the 54,000 medical pro- leadership. The ranking member, I ap- marks and include extraneous material fessionals listed in FMCSA’s National preciate her leadership as well. on S. 1393. Registry of Certified Medical Exam- She was exactly right. These are two The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there iners, only 25 medical professionals are House bills that the Senate combined objection to the request of the gen- employed by the VA. The online train- that we passed unanimously here. This tleman from Missouri? ing and testing system being developed veterans trucking language was lan- There was no objection. by FMCSA and the VA should help guage that the gentlewoman from Cali- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- remedy this situation. These two agen- fornia (Ms. BROWNLEY) and I introduced er, I yield myself such time as I may cies have done a good job creating an together upon learning that of the consume. alternative process that will eventu- more than 54,000 medical professionals S. 1393 would exempt current mem- ally allow more VA doctors to become that are allowed to certify folks for bers of the armed services or reserve certified medical examiners, while Federal trucking licenses, only 25 of components from certain testing re- maintaining the safety and integrity of those worked in the VA system. Of quirements for commercial driver’s li- the certification system. 54,000, only 25 were available to our censes if they had qualifying experi- Although the FAST Act provision au- veterans. ence while serving in the armed serv- thorizing this process referred to physi- We said that is not right, so this ices or reserve components. cians, FMCSA should allow VA-em- House came together. We expanded. All This bill also expands the types of ployed nurse practitioners, chiroprac- the physicians of the VA became avail- medical professionals at the Depart- tors, physician assistants, and other able to serve our veterans through

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.013 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10217 these trucking certifications. The bill Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- practice described in paragraph (9) of section went to the President’s desk, and he er, I have no further speakers, and I re- 103 of the Trafficking Victims Protection signed it. serve the balance of my time. Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7102(9)).’’. Then we had folks come back. We had Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- advanced practice nurses, we had phy- myself such time as I may consume. ant to the rule, the gentleman from sicians’ assistants, we had folks work- Mr. Speaker, this bill marries two Missouri (Mr. GRAVES) and the gentle- ing throughout the VA healthcare sys- priorities: jobs for our veterans. So woman from the District of Columbia tem who said: You know what, we, too, many come back, and they have had (Ms. NORTON) each will control 20 min- are licensed to provide these physicals; training, yet we are finding that we utes. and if you change the language, we, can’t always find jobs for them. Here The Chair recognizes the gentleman too, will be your partner in serving vet- are jobs where there is a chronic prob- from Missouri. erans. lem, tough jobs, jobs which require GENERAL LEAVE Again, JULIA BROWNLEY on the Demo- people to be away from home, often for Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- crat side; I on this side; my ranking long hours, jobs that do not pay as well er, I ask unanimous consent that all member; Ms. NORTON; my chairman as some other jobs. So there has been a Members have 5 legislative days to re- here, Mr. GRAVES; we came together chronic shortage. vise and extend their remarks and to and now we have a further improve- This bill serves both purposes, and it include extraneous material on S. 1532. ment to language that the rules are serves our Nation very well. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there still being crafted for down at DOT. Mr. Speaker, I have no further speak- objection to the request of the gen- Mr. Speaker, folks don’t think there ers, and I yield back the balance of my tleman from Missouri? is cooperation in this Chamber. Folks time. There was no objection. don’t think that we are able to work Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- together in this Chamber. This is an er, I would urge my colleagues to join er, I yield myself such time as I may example of what goes on every single me in supporting this important legis- consume. day. Constituents raise problems. Re- lation. Mr. Speaker, human trafficking is a publicans and Democrats get together Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance terrible crime with an estimated 20 to solve those problems. of my time. million victims worldwide. It is incum- I am so grateful to my friends on the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bent upon Congress to take the steps committee for their leadership to get question is on the motion offered by necessary to combat this crime when- this done. To Ranking Member DEFA- the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. ever possible. ZIO and Chairman SHUSTER, I thank GRAVES) that the House suspend the Just this past summer there was a them as well for their leadership. rules and pass the bill, S. 1393. case in San Antonio in which 10 people Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 The question was taken. died while being illegally trafficked in minutes to the gentleman from Cali- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the a commercial motor vehicle. Drivers fornia (Mr. AGUILAR). opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being have been the first line of defense in Mr. AGUILAR. Mr. Speaker, I want in the affirmative, the ayes have it. helping identify and report these sorts to thank the gentlewoman for yielding. Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- of activities within the trucking com- Mr. Speaker, far too often our brave er, on that I demand the yeas and nays. munity. We need these drivers to stay servicemembers return to civilian life The yeas and nays were ordered. vigilant and we need to weed out the only to find that the skills they have The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- bad actors. gained in military service do not easily ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- In addition to the criminal penalties, transfer to the job market. These brave ceedings on this motion will be post- drivers who knowingly take part in men and women who have worked tire- poned. human trafficking should never again lessly to keep their country safe de- f be able to drive commercially. Current serve to know that they can thrive law prohibits an individual from oper- NO HUMAN TRAFFICKING ON OUR here after their service is complete. ating a commercial motor vehicle if ROADS ACT For that reason, Mr. Speaker, I rise they are convicted of one of nine dif- in strong support of the Jobs for Our Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- ferent crimes, including alcohol abuse, Heroes Act. Among other critical ini- er, I move to suspend the rules and negligent manslaughter, and drug traf- tiatives to help our servicemembers pass the bill (S. 1532) to disqualify from ficking. find civilian employment, this legisla- operating a commercial motor vehicle S. 1532 disqualifies individuals from tion contains my bill, the ADVANCE for life an individual who uses a com- operating a commercial vehicle for Act. mercial motor vehicle in committing a their lifetime if they ever use that The ADVANCE Act will allow Active- felony involving human trafficking. commercial vehicle to commit a felony Duty servicemembers, reservists, and The Clerk read the title of the bill. involving human trafficking. National Guardsmen to access the The text of the bill is as follows: This bipartisan bill passed the Senate same unique testing standards for com- S. 1532 with unanimous consent, and I would mercial driver’s licenses granted to Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- like to commend Mr. KATKO for his veterans by the latest surface transpor- resentatives of the United States of America in leadership on the House version of this tation bill. Congress assembled, bill, and I would urge my colleagues to This commonsense legislation will SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. support S. 1532. allow those serving our country to This Act may be cited as the ‘‘No Human Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of begin the process of finding civilian Trafficking on Our Roads Act’’. my time. employment before they finish their SEC. 2. LIFETIME DISQUALIFICATION WITHOUT Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield term of service, allowing them to hit REINSTATEMENT. myself such time as I may consume. the ground running upon reentering ci- Section 31310(d) of title 49, United States Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to rise in Code, is amended— vilian life. Our Nation’s heroes deserve (1) in the heading, by striking ‘‘CON- support of S. 1532. This legislation in- to know that the process of TROLLED SUBSTANCE VIOLATIONS’’ and insert- stitutes a lifetime ban from operating transitioning out of the military will ing ‘‘LIFETIME DISQUALIFICATION WITHOUT a commercial motor vehicle for any in- be seamless, and this bipartisan legis- REINSTATEMENT’’; dividual who has used such a vehicle to lation will help ensure that is the case. (2) by striking ‘‘The Secretary’’ and insert- commit human trafficking. I want to thank the ranking member, ing ‘‘(1) CONTROLLED SUBSTANCE VIOLA- In the summer of 2017, 10 people died the chairman for their leadership. I TIONS.—The Secretary’’; and in San Antonio, Texas, in the process (3) by adding at the end the following: also want to thank Senators WARREN, of being illegally trafficked in a truck ‘‘(2) HUMAN TRAFFICKING VIOLATIONS.—The CORNYN, and TILLIS for guiding this bill Secretary shall disqualify from operating a at Walmart. That horrendous incident through the Senate. I urge my col- commercial motor vehicle for life an indi- served as a stark reminder that the leagues here in the House to vote in vidual who uses a commercial motor vehicle transportation sector can be exploited favor of this today. in committing a felony involving an act or for heinous acts.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.074 H19DEPT1 H10218 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 Since 2007, the National Human Traf- are hardworking, honest men and (1) coordinate human trafficking preven- ficking Hotline has received reports of women, our bill is necessary to ensure tion efforts across modal administrations in more than 22,000 sex trafficking cases that the select few who commit these the Department of Transportation and with inside our country. In addition, it has crimes are brought to justice. other departments and agencies of the Fed- eral Government; and received over 5,000 reports of individ- I am grateful for the chairman’s sup- (2) in coordinating such efforts, take into uals who have been coerced into forced port in moving our bill through the account the unique challenges of combating labor or indentured servitude. Transportation and Infrastructure human trafficking within different transpor- The National Center for Missing and Committee and bringing this impor- tation modes. Exploited Children estimates that one tant issue before the floor of the House. SEC. 3. EXPANSION OF OUTREACH AND EDU- of every six runaway children who was I would also like to thank outside orga- CATION PROGRAM. reported to them last year had become nizations, like the National District Section 31110(c)(1) of title 49, United States victims of sex trafficking. Code, is amended by adding at the end the Attorneys Association, for supporting following: ‘‘The program authorized under The FMCSA currently prohibits any this legislation. this subsection may support, in addition to individual from operating a CMV for Again, I would like to thank Rep- funds otherwise available for such purposes, life if he or she is convicted of commit- resentative ESTY and Senators THUNE the recognition, prevention, and reporting of ting specific crimes, including neg- and KLOBUCHAR for their bipartisan, bi- human trafficking, while deferring to exist- ligent manslaughter and drug traf- cameral leadership in this matter. ing resources, as practicable.’’. ficking. This bill ensures that the Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, this is SEC. 4. EXPANSION OF COMMERCIAL DRIVER’S FMCSA also takes action against per- LICENSE FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE another example of what bipartisan- PROGRAM. petrators who use their CMV to com- ship can achieve in the House of Rep- Section 31313(a)(3) of title 49, United States mit ‘‘severe’’—and that is the operative resentatives, unlike, sadly, the tax bill Code, is amended— word—forms of sex trafficking, as de- that was just passed just before us in (1) in subparagraph (D), by striking ‘‘or’’ at fined by the Trafficking Victims Pro- the House of Representatives here this the end; tection Act. afternoon. (2) by redesignating subparagraph (E) as The Committee on Transportation Mr. Speaker, I have no further speak- subparagraph (F); and and Infrastructure reported an iden- ers, and I yield back the balance of my (3) by inserting after subparagraph (D) the tical bill, H.R. 3814, to the House by a following: time. ‘‘(E) support, in addition to funds other- voice vote in November. This legisla- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- wise available for such purposes, the recognition takes important steps to reduce er, I would urge my colleagues to join tion, prevention, and reporting of human human trafficking in the transpor- me in supporting this important legis- trafficking; or’’. tation sector. lation. SEC. 5. ESTABLISHMENT OF THE DEPARTMENT Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance OF TRANSPORTATION ADVISORY join me in supporting this important of my time. COMMITTEE ON HUMAN TRAF- bill, and I reserve the balance of my FICKING. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (a) ESTABLISHMENT.—The Secretary shall time. question is on the motion offered by establish an advisory committee on human Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. trafficking. er, I yield 3 minutes to the gentleman GRAVES) that the House suspend the (b) MEMBERSHIP.— from New York (Mr. KATKO). rules and pass the bill, S. 1532. (1) COMPOSITION.—The Committee shall be Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I would The question was taken. composed of not more than 15 external like to thank my colleague for yield- stakeholder members whose diverse experi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the ence and background enable them to provide ing. opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being Mr. Speaker, I am proud to rise in balanced points of view with regard to car- in the affirmative, the ayes have it. rying out the duties of the Committee. favor of S. 1532, the No Human Traf- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- (2) SELECTION.—The Secretary shall ap- ficking on Our Roads Act. This bipar- er, on that I demand the yeas and nays. point the external stakeholder members to tisan, bicameral bill strengthens our The yeas and nays were ordered. the Committee, including representatives Nation’s efforts to combat human traf- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- from— ficking. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- (A) trafficking advocacy organizations; As a former organized crime pros- (B) law enforcement; and ceedings on this motion will be post- (C) trucking, bus, rail, aviation, maritime, ecutor for two decades both on the poned. Northern border and on the Southern and port sectors, including industry and labor. border, I have seen firsthand the hor- f (3) PERIODS OF APPOINTMENT.—Members rors of human trafficking. Too often, COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING shall be appointed for the life of the Com- human traffickers take advantage of IN COMMERCIAL VEHICLES ACT mittee. our Nation’s transportation network to (4) VACANCIES.—A vacancy in the Com- transport their victims from one loca- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- mittee shall be filled in the manner in which tion to the next. er, I move to suspend the rules and the original appointment was made and shall The U.S. Department of Transpor- pass the bill (S. 1536) to designate a not affect the powers or duties of the Com- tation and the transportation industry human trafficking prevention coordi- mittee. nator and to expand the scope of activi- (5) COMPENSATION.—Committee members play a critical role in preventing and shall serve without compensation. stopping these heinous exploitations. I ties authorized under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s (c) AUTHORITY.—Not later than 9 months want to commend the trucking indus- after the date of enactment of this Act, the outreach and education program to in- try for their commitment in training Secretary shall establish and appoint all drivers to identify instances of human clude human trafficking prevention ac- members of the Committee. trafficking through organizations like tivities, and for other purposes. (d) DUTIES.— Truckers Against Trafficking. The Clerk read the title of the bill. (1) RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE DEPARTMENT Truck drivers are often a critical The text of the bill is as follows: OF TRANSPORTATION.—Not later than 18 S. 1536 months after the date of enactment of this asset in helping law enforcement iden- Act, the Committee shall make rec- tify victims who otherwise might go Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- ommendations to the Secretary on actions unseen. However, an isolated few indi- resentatives of the United States of America in the Department can take to help combat viduals have taken advantage of their Congress assembled, human trafficking, including the develop- position to illegally traffic innocent SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ment and implementation of— people. We must stop this from occur- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Combating (A) successful strategies for identifying ring. Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehicles and reporting instances of human traf- Act’’. Earlier this year, alongside my good ficking; and SEC. 2. HUMAN TRAFFICKING PREVENTION CO- (B) recommendations for administrative or friend, Congresswoman ESTY, I intro- ORDINATOR. legislative changes necessary to use produced H.R. 3814, the identical House The Secretary of Transportation shall des- grams, properties, or other resources owned, companion to this bill. While the vast ignate an official within the Department of operated, or funded by the Department to majority of our Nation’s truck drivers Transportation who shall— combat human trafficking.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.076 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10219 (2) BEST PRACTICES AND RECOMMENDA- an important role in combating human Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 TIONS.— trafficking. Specifically what this bill minutes to the gentlewoman from Con- (A) IN GENERAL.—The Committee shall de- does is it directs the Secretary of necticut (Ms. ESTY), the author of the velop recommended best practices for States Transportation to designate a human bill. and State and local transportation stake- Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. Mr. Speak- holders to follow in combating human traf- trafficking prevention coordinator ficking. from within the Department; it ex- er, I thank the gentlewoman for yield- (B) DEVELOPMENT.—The best practices pands the scope of activities authorized ing. shall be based on multidisciplinary research under the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Mr. Speaker, I rise to strongly sup- and promising, evidence-based models and Administration’s outreach and edu- port the passage of S. 1536, the Com- programs. cation program and under the Commer- bating Human Trafficking in Commer- (C) CONTENT.—The best practices shall be cial Driver’s License program imple- cial Vehicles Act. This bipartisan, bi- user-friendly, incorporate the most up-to- mentation grants to include human cameral bill is an important step in date technology, and include the following: combating the terrible crime of human (i) Sample training materials. trafficking prevention activities; and it requires the Secretary to establish an trafficking. (ii) Strategies to identify victims. The Combating Human Trafficking in (iii) Sample protocols and recommenda- advisory committee on human traf- Commercial Vehicles Act will help tions, including— ficking. (I) strategies to collect, document, and S. 1536 is supported by Members on stem the tide of trafficking by pro- share data across systems and agencies; both sides of the aisle, and it passed viding training to commercial truck (II) strategies to help agencies better un- the Senate with unanimous consent. drivers through the Department of derstand the types of trafficking involved, I would like to commend Ms. ESTY Transportation to recognize and report the scope of the problem, and the degree of for her leadership on the House version trafficking, further empowering them victim interaction with multiple systems; of this bill. Because of her work and to prevent this horrendous crime. and Specifically, this bill designates a her partnership on this with Mr. (III) strategies to identify effective path- human trafficking prevention coordi- KATKO, the House version passed ways for State agencies to utilize their posi- nator at the U.S. Department of Trans- tion in educating critical stakeholder groups through committee unanimously. portation and increases outreach, edu- and assisting victims. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to cation, and reporting efforts at the (D) INFORMING STATES OF BEST PRACTICES.— support S. 1536, and I reserve the bal- Federal Motor Carrier Safety Adminis- The Secretary shall ensure that State Gov- ance of my time. tration. ernors and State departments of transpor- Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield tation are notified of the best practices and Mr. Speaker, human trafficking is an myself such time as I may consume. recommendations. appalling and inhumane crime, and it Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support (e) REPORTS.—Not later than 2 years after is occurring in communities all over of this bill as well. S. 1536 will help en- the date of enactment of this Act, the Sec- my home State of Connecticut and sure that the U.S. Department of retary shall— throughout the entire United States. (1) submit a report on the actions of the Transportation has the necessary tools As I learned when a human trafficking Committee described in subsection (d) to— to reduce the prevalence of human traf- ring was broken up in my small home- (A) the Committee on Commerce, Science, ficking in commercial vehicles. and Transportation of the Senate; and town, anyone can become a victim of In 2016, more than 7,000 cases of this crime regardless of race, age, gen- (B) the Committee on Transportation and human trafficking were reported to the Infrastructure of the House of Representa- der, or socioeconomic status. tives; and National Human Trafficking Hotline. This appalling crime takes many (2) make the report under paragraph (1) With this legislation, Congress is step- forms, the vast majority of which are publicly available both physically and on- ping in to ensure DOT has additional sexually exploitative in nature. line. authority and resources to combat this Shockingly, the average age a teen en- (f) DEFINITIONS.—In this section: egregious crime. ters the sex trade in the United States (1) COMMITTEE.—The term ‘‘Committee’’ This bill provides the Federal Motor means the Department of Transportation is 12 to 14 years old, and many victims Carrier Safety Administration, are runaway girls who were sexually Advisory Committee on Human Trafficking FMCSA, more flexibility to combat established under subsection (a). abused as children. human trafficking by authorizing fund- (2) HUMAN TRAFFICKING.—The term ‘‘human Truckers and commercial drivers are trafficking’’ means an act or practice de- ing from two existing grant programs often the first line of defense against scribed in paragraph (9) or paragraph (10) of to be used to support the reporting and human trafficking in the United section 103 of the Trafficking Victims Pro- the prevention of human trafficking. States. Their eyes and ears are on the tection Act of 2000 (22 U.S.C. 7102). The bill will also help DOT coordinate roads, where victims are being moved (3) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ efforts to fight human trafficking with across borders and from city to city. means the Secretary of Transportation. other Federal agencies, and it estab- The Combating Human Trafficking in The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- lishes an advisory committee on Commercial Vehicles Act is supported ant to the rule, the gentleman from human trafficking. by Truckers Against Trafficking, the Missouri (Mr. GRAVES) and the gentle- The advisory committee will convene National District Attorneys Associa- woman from the District of Columbia experts from law enforcement, victim tion, the Commercial Vehicle Safety (Ms. NORTON) each will control 20 min- advocacy organizations, and the trans- Alliance, the Owner Operator Inde- utes. portation industry to advise DOT of pendent Drivers Association, and The Chair recognizes the gentleman concrete steps it can take to improve ECPAT-USA. from Missouri. the recognition and the prevention of I am proud to be the coauthor of the GENERAL LEAVE trafficking. House companion to the No Human Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- The advisory committee will also de- Trafficking on Our Roads Act along er, I ask unanimous consent that all velop and share best practices with with my friend, JOHN KATKO of New Members have 5 legislative days to re- State and local stakeholders so that York. vise and extend their remarks and to they are better equipped to combat the I am also pleased that we will be vot- include extraneous material on S. 1536. trafficking in their own communities. ing today on another bill that Con- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there The Committee on Transportation gressman KATKO and I coauthored, the objection to the request of the gen- and Infrastructure reported an iden- No Human Trafficking on Our Roads tleman from Missouri? tical bill, H.R. 3813, authored by the Act. There was no objection. gentlewoman from Connecticut (Ms. Both bills were originally introduced ESTY), to the House in November. in the Senate by Senators KLOBUCHAR b 1500 Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to and THUNE and passed unanimously. Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- join me in supporting this bill, and I Both bills were also passed unani- er, I yield myself such time as I may reserve the balance of my time. mously out of the House Transpor- consume. Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- tation and Infrastructure Committee. Mr. Speaker, S. 1536 empowers the er, I don’t have any speakers, and I re- Mr. Speaker, I urge my friends and Department of Transportation to play serve the balance of my time. colleagues to join me in voting ‘‘yes’’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.015 H19DEPT1 H10220 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 on the Combating Human Trafficking The yeas and nays were ordered. or more’’ and inserting ‘‘which has been identi- in Commercial Vehicles Act and the No The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- fied as a global systemically important bank Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- holding company pursuant to section 217.402 of today so we can send these very impor- ceedings on this motion will be post- title 12, Code of Federal Regulations, or subjected to a determination under subsection (l) of tant pieces of legislation to the Presi- poned. section 165’’. dent’s desk for his swift signature. f (e) OFFICE OF FINANCIAL RESEARCH.—Section Mr. Speaker, again, I want to thank 155 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and my Republican and Democratic col- SYSTEMIC RISK DESIGNATION Consumer Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5345) is leagues both in the House and the Sen- IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2017 amended in subsection (d) by striking ‘‘with ate for their work on these two impor- total consolidated assets of 50,000,000,000 or Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, pur- greater’’ and inserting ‘‘which have been identi- tant bills. suant to House Resolution 667, I call up Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- fied as global systemically important bank hold- the bill (H.R. 3312) to amend the Dodd- ing companies pursuant to section 217.402 of er, I reserve the balance of my time. Frank Wall Street Reform and Con- Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 title 12, Code of Federal Regulations, or sub- sumer Protection Act to specify when jected to a determination under subsection (l) of minutes to the gentlewoman from bank holding companies may be subsection 165’’. Michigan (Mrs. LAWRENCE). SEC. 3. REVISIONS TO BOARD AUTHORITY. Mrs. LAWRENCE. Mr. Speaker, I ject to certain enhanced supervision, and for other purposes, and ask for its (a) ACQUISITIONS.—Section 163 of the Dodd- want to thank my colleague, Ms. NOR- immediate consideration in the House. Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protec- TON, for having this amazing interest tion Act (12 U.S.C. 5363) is amended by striking to our country put before us for a vote. The Clerk read the title of the bill. ‘‘with total consolidated assets equal to or Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of S. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- greater than $50,000,000,000’’ each place such 1532, No Human Trafficking on Our ant to House Resolution 667, in lieu of term appears and inserting ‘‘which has been Roads, and S. 1536, the Combating the amendment recommended by the identified as a global systemically important Human Trafficking in Commercial Ve- Committee on Financial Services bank holding company pursuant to section printed in the bill, an amendment in 217.402 of title 12, Code of Federal Regulations, hicles Act. or subjected to a determination under subsection As the vice chair of the congressional the nature of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules Committee Print 115– (l) of section 165’’. bipartisan Caucus for Women’s Issues (b) MANAGEMENT INTERLOCKS.—Section 164 of and a member of the Transportation 49, modified by the amendment printed the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Con- and Infrastructure Committee, I am in House Report 115–474, is adopted, and sumer Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5364) is amend- pleased that we are solving these issues the bill, as amended, is considered ed by striking ‘‘with total consolidated assets of real concern. read. equal to or greater than $50,000,000,000’’ and in- Human trafficking is an inexcusable The text of the bill, as amended, is as serting ‘‘which has been identified as a global crime. According to the National follows: systemically important bank holding company pursuant to section 217.402 of title 12, Code of H.R. 3312 Human Trafficking Resource Center, Federal Regulations, or subjected to a deter- about 8 in 10 reported victims are Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- mination under subsection (l) of section 165’’. women. It is a crime that exploits resentatives of the United States of America in (c) ENHANCED SUPERVISION AND PRUDENTIAL women more than anyone else, and es- Congress assembled, STANDARDS.—Section 165 of the Dodd-Frank pecially young girls. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Mr. Speaker, combating human traf- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Systemic Risk Act (12 U.S.C. 5365) is amended— ficking is a serious concern of mine. Designation Improvement Act of 2017’’. (1) in subsection (a), by striking ‘‘with total SEC. 2. REVISIONS TO COUNCIL AUTHORITY. consolidated assets equal to or greater than Unfortunately, in my district—I rep- $50,000,000,000’’ and inserting ‘‘which have been resent the Metro Detroit area—a major (a) PURPOSES AND DUTIES.—Section 112 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer identified as global systemically important bank international transportation and ship- holding companies pursuant to section 217.402 of ping hub in southeast Michigan, we Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5322) is amended in subsection (a)(2)(I) by inserting before the semi- title 12, Code of Federal Regulations, or sub- rank number seven in total human colon ‘‘, which have been identified as global jected to a determination under subsection (l)’’; (2) in subsection (a)(2)— trafficking cases reported in our coun- systemically important bank holding companies (A) by striking ‘‘(A) IN GENERAL.—’’; try. pursuant to section 217.402 of title 12, Code of These bills mark progress toward (B) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘may’’ Federal Regulations, or subjected to a deter- and inserting ‘‘shall’’; and combating human trafficking. We are mination under subsection (l) of section 165’’. (C) by striking subparagraph (B); improving our systems to better recog- (b) ENHANCED SUPERVISION.—Section 115 of (3) in subsection (j), by striking ‘‘with total nize and report this crime. We are clos- the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Con- consolidated assets equal to or greater than ing loopholes in our transportation sumer Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5325) is amend- $50,000,000,000’’ and inserting ‘‘which has been system that traffickers have taken ad- ed— identified as a global systemically important (1) in subsection (a)(1), by striking ‘‘large, bank holding company pursuant to section vantage of for far too long. interconnected bank holding companies’’ and I am proud to support these bills, and 217.402 of title 12, Code of Federal Regulations, inserting ‘‘bank holding companies which have or subjected to a determination under subsection I urge my colleagues to support them been identified as global systemically important (l)’’. as well. bank holding companies pursuant to section (d) ADVANCED TAILORING.—Section 165 of the Mr. Speaker, today I needed a vote 217.402 of title 12, Code of Federal Regulations, Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer and a voice for something that is good or subjected to a determination under subsection Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5365) is amended by for this country, and so I stand here in (l) of section 165’’; and adding at the end the following: support. (2) in subsection (a)(2)— ‘‘(l) ADDITIONAL BANK HOLDING COMPANIES Ms. NORTON. Mr. Speaker, I yield (A) in subparagraph (A), by striking ‘‘; or’’ at SUBJECT TO ENHANCED SUPERVISION AND PRU- back the balance of my time. the end and inserting a period; DENTIAL STANDARDS BY TAILORED REGULA- (B) by striking ‘‘the Council may’’ and all Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- TION.— that follows through ‘‘differentiate’’ and insert- ‘‘(1) DETERMINATION.—The Board of Gov- er, I urge my colleagues to join me in ing ‘‘the Council may differentiate’’; and ernors may, within the limits of its existing re- supporting this important legislation. (C) by striking subparagraph (B). sources— Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance (c) REPORTS.—Section 116(a) of the Dodd- ‘‘(A) determine that a bank holding company of my time. Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protec- that has not been identified as a global system- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. tion Act (12 U.S.C. 5326(a)) is amended by strik- ically important bank holding company pursu- YODER). The question is on the motion ing ‘‘with total consolidated assets of ant to section 217.402 of title 12, Code of Federal offered by the gentleman from Mis- $50,000,000,000 or greater’’ and inserting ‘‘which Regulations, shall be subject to certain en- souri (Mr. GRAVES) that the House sus- has been identified as a global systemically im- hanced supervision or prudential standards pend the rules and pass the bill, S. 1536. portant bank holding company pursuant to sec- under this section, tailored to the risks pre- tion 217.402 of title 12, Code of Federal Regula- sented, based on the considerations in para- The question was taken. tions, or subjected to a determination under sub- graph (3), where material financial distress at The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the section (l) of section 165’’. the bank holding company, or the nature, scope, opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being (d) MITIGATION.—Section 121(a) of the Dodd- size, scale, concentration, interconnectedness, or in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protec- mix of the activities of the individual bank hold- Mr. GRAVES of Missouri. Mr. Speak- tion Act (12 U.S.C. 5331) is amended by striking ing company, could pose a threat to the finan- er, on that I demand the yeas and nays. ‘‘with total consolidated assets of $50,000,000,000 cial stability of the United States; or

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.080 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10221 ‘‘(B) by regulation determine that a category safety and soundness risk to the stability of the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there of bank holding companies that have not been United States banking or financial system but objection to the request of the gen- identified as global systemically important bank has not been designated as a global systemically tleman from Texas? holding companies pursuant to section 217.402 of important bank holding company. There was no objection. title 12, Code of Federal Regulations, shall be SEC. 5. EXISTING ASSESSMENT TERMINATION Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I subject to certain enhanced supervision or pru- SCHEDULE. dential standards under this section, tailored to (a) TEMPORARY EXTENSION OF EXISTING AS- yield myself as much time as I may the risk presented by the category of bank hold- SESSMENT.— consume. ing companies, based on the considerations in (1) IN GENERAL.—Each bank holding company Mr. Speaker, today I rise in strong paragraph (3), where material financial distress that, on the day that is 24 months following the support of H.R. 3312, the Systemic Risk at the category of bank holding companies, or date of the enactment of this Act, has total con- Designation Improvement Act of 2017. the nature, scope, size, scale, concentration, solidated assets equal to or greater than This very important piece of legisla- interconnectedness, or mix of the activities of $50,000,000,000, has not been identified as a glob- tion was introduced by my friend, Mr. the category of bank holding companies, could al systemically important bank holding com- LUETKEMEYER, who serves as chairman pose a threat to the financial stability of the pany pursuant to section 217.402 of title 12, United States. Code of Federal Regulations, and has not been of the Financial Institutions and Con- ‘‘(2) COUNCIL APPROVAL OF REGULATIONS WITH subjected to a determination under subsection sumer Credit Subcommittee of the Fi- RESPECT TO CATEGORIES.—Notwithstanding (l) of section 165 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street nancial Services Committee, and is co- paragraph (1)(B), a regulation issued by the Reform and Consumer Protection Act, shall be sponsored by a bipartisan group of Board of Governors to make a determination subject to assessments by the Secretary of the Members of the House. In fact, Mr. under such paragraph (1)(B) shall not take ef- Treasury to the same extent as a bank holding Speaker, the bill was approved in Octo- fect unless the Council, by a vote of not fewer company that has been so identified or sub- ber by the Financial Services Com- 2 jected. than ⁄3 of the voting members then serving, in- mittee with a very strong bipartisan cluding an affirmative vote by the Chairperson, (2) CONSIDERATIONS.—In making assessments approves the metrics used by the Board of Gov- pursuant to paragraph (1), the Secretary of the vote of 47–12, so strong, Mr. Speaker, ernors in establishing such regulation. Treasury shall take into account differences that even a majority of Democrats on ‘‘(3) CONSIDERATIONS.—In making any deter- among the bank holding companies subject to the committee voted to support the mination under paragraph (1), the Board of such assessment, based on the considerations for bill. Governors shall consider the following factors: establishing the prudential standards under sec- This bill reforms what Republicans ‘‘(A) The size of the bank holding company. tion 115 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and now many Democrats acknowledge ‘‘(B) The interconnectedness of the bank hold- and Consumer Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5325). (3) LIMITATION ON AMOUNT OF ASSESSMENTS.— is a flawed and arbitrary framework ing company. under the Dodd-Frank Act to designate ‘‘(C) The extent of readily available sub- The aggregate amount collected pursuant to stitutes or financial institution infrastructure paragraph (1) from all bank holding companies so-called systemically important finan- for the services of the bank holding company. assessed under such paragraph shall be cial institutions, also known as SIFIs. ‘‘(D) The global cross-jurisdictional activity of $58,000,000. In fact, one of those Democrats who ac- the bank holding company. (4) PAYMENT PERIOD OPTIONS.—The Secretary knowledges that it is a flawed and arbi- ‘‘(E) The complexity of the bank holding com- of the Treasury shall offer the option of pay- trary framework is none other than ments spread out before the end of the 48-month pany. former chairman of the House Finan- ‘‘(4) CONSISTENT APPLICATION OF CONSIDER- period following the date of the enactment of this Act, or shorter periods including the option cial Services Committee, Barney ATIONS.—In making a determination under Frank, the very Frank of Dodd-Frank, paragraph (1), the Board of Governors shall en- of a one-time payment, at the discretion of each sure that bank holding companies that are simi- bank holding company paying assessments pur- the coauthor of the Dodd-Frank Act. larly situated with respect to the factors de- suant to paragraph (1). He, himself, has said that this provi- scribed under paragraph (3), are treated simi- (5) ASSESSMENTS TO BE MADE IN ADDITION TO sion in the Dodd-Frank Act that many larly for purposes of any enhanced supervision ANY OTHER ASSESSMENTS.—The assessments col- of us are trying to reform today is ‘‘ar- or prudential standards applied under this sec- lected pursuant to paragraph (1) shall be in ad- bitrary’’ and ‘‘a mistake.’’ Those are dition to, and not as a replacement of, any as- tion. his words, Mr. Speaker, not mine. ‘‘(5) USE OF CURRENTLY REPORTED DATA TO sessments required under any other law. (b) TREATMENT UPON DETERMINATION.—A That arbitrary and mistaken provi- AVOID UNNECESSARY BURDEN.—For purposes of sion is Dodd-Frank’s one-size-fits-all making a determination under paragraph (1), bank holding company assessed under this sec- the Board of Governors shall make use of data tion shall no longer be subject to such assess- standard that subjects banks with $50 already being reported to the Board of Gov- ments in the event it is identified as a global billion or more in assets to the same ernors, including from calculating a bank hold- systemically important bank holding company costly and cumbersome SIFI regu- ing company’s systemic indicator score, in order pursuant to section 217.402 of title 12, Code of latory standards as trillion-dollar glob- Federal Regulations, or subjected to a deter- to avoid placing an unnecessary burden on al systemically important institutions. bank holding companies.’’. mination under subsection (l) of section 165 of the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Con- We should take note that this flawed (e) SYSTEMIC IDENTIFICATION.—Section 165 of sumer Protection Act. Any prior payments made standard has now been criticized by the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Con- Federal Reserve Chair Janet Yellen, sumer Protection Act (12 U.S.C. 5365), as amend- by such a banking holding company pursuant ed by subsection (d), is further amended by add- to an assessment under this section shall be former Federal Reserve Board Gov- ing at the end the following: nonrefundable. ernor Dan Tarullo, former Comptroller ‘‘(m) SYSTEMIC IDENTIFICATION.—With respect SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE. of the Currency Thomas Curry, and to the identification of bank holding companies The amendments made by this Act shall take many other Obama appointees. In as global systemically important bank holding effect after the end of the 18-month period fol- other words, Mr. Speaker, it is that lowing the date of the enactment of this Act. companies pursuant to section 217.402 of title 12, bad. Code of Federal Regulations, or subjected to a The SPEAKER pro tempore. The bill, Mr. LUETKEMEYER’s bipartisan bill— determination under subsection (l), the Board of as amended, shall be debatable for 1 again, very strong bipartisan bill—re- Governors shall— hour equally divided and controlled by ‘‘(1) publish, including on the Board of places this inflexible, flawed, $50 bil- the chair and ranking minority mem- lion threshold that has been criticized Governors’s website, a list of all bank holding ber of the Committee on Financial companies that have been so identified, and by so many with a series of well-estab- keep such list current; and Services. lished, critical standards that more ac- ‘‘(2) solicit feedback from the Council on the The gentleman from Texas (Mr. HEN- curately measure systemic importance. identification process and on the application of SARLING) and the gentleman from such process to specific bank holding compa- Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) each will control b 1515 nies.’’. 30 minutes. Specifically, his legislation requires SEC. 4. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. The Chair recognizes the gentleman the Federal Reserve to review a finan- Nothing in this Act or the amendments made from Texas (Mr. HENSARLING). cial institution’s size, interconnected- by this Act shall be construed to prohibit the GENERAL LEAVE ness, global cross-jurisdictional activ- Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve Sys- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I ity, and complexity, before deter- tem from prescribing enhanced prudential ask unanimous consent that all Mem- mining whether the institution should standards for any bank holding company which the Board of Governors determines, based upon bers may have 5 legislative days in be subject to heightened SIFI regu- the bank holding company’s size, interconnect- which to revise and extend their re- latory standards. edness, substitutability, global cross-jurisdic- marks and submit extraneous material In other words, this bipartisan bill tional activity, and complexity, could pose a on the bill under consideration. tailors regulations based on a bank’s

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.024 H19DEPT1 H10222 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 actual level of risk, instead of Dodd- Mr. DAVID SCOTT of Georgia. Mr. pales in comparison to risks posed by Frank’s one-size-fits-all system that Speaker, as the Democratic lead on many and almost all global system- ensnares smaller regional and midsize this bill, it is very important for me to ically important banks. banks that, essentially, have simple point out that I worked very closely H.R. 3312 will remove the completely community bank lending models. with Chairman Barney Frank and the arbitrary approach taken today and re- These banks are not globally complex Obama administration, both of which place it with analysis of actual risk Wall Street banks and shouldn’t be admitted at the time that it was a mis- posed to the financial system. The bill treated the same. take, a blunt instrument, to be able to would require regulators to examine It simply doesn’t make sense to sub- just put an arbitrary figure of $50 bil- not just size, but also interconnected- ject small regional and midsize banks lion and say they are a threat to our fi- ness, the extent of readily available with only $50 billion in assets to the nancial stability. substitutes, global cross-jurisdictional same expensive and cumbersome SIFI No. Our banking system deserves bet- activity, and the complexity of each regulatory regime as a bank like ter than that. The American people de- bank holding company. JPMorgan Chase, which has $2.5 tril- serve better than that. It is not the Today’s method isn’t a reasonable lion in assets. Based on size alone, the amount of money that you have got in basis for supervision, a fact that has $50 billion bank is just 2 percent, 2 per- your assets that caused the problem; it been recognized by Fed Chair Yellen, cent of JPMorgan Chase’s size. was what they were doing that caused Treasury Secretary Mnuchin, and What does make sense, Mr. Speaker, the exposure. former Treasury Secretary Lew, and is to base the regulation of these finan- So we want to substitute the $50 bil- many Members of this body. Even Bar- cial institutions on their actual risk lion to make sure that we have a five- ney Frank, as Chairman HENSARLING profile rather than their asset size point test that the Feds will give that just noted, the former Democratic alone, which is exactly what Mr. will be able to determine if they are a chairman of the Financial Services LUETKEMEYER’s strongly bipartisan bill threat to our security and then tailor a Committee and author of the Dodd- will do. program of advanced supervision that Frank Act, has said the $50 billion Now, while I personally do not sup- would prevent them from causing us threshold is completely arbitrary and port the SIFI architecture at all and do this problem. has had negative implications on our not believe any financial institution in It is a great bill. It is time we cor- economy. America should be designated too big rected it, and I ask all of my col- It is important to note that this bill to fail, it is important that we always leagues, both Democrats and Repub- will not impact the authority of the continue to work to find bipartisan re- licans, to do the right thing for the Federal Reserve to oversee institu- forms where we can find them and im- American people, and let’s have a re- tions. The focused standards set forth prove current law, and the legislation sounding ‘‘yes’’ vote for this SIFI bill. in the bill don’t guarantee that any in- before us today represents a good faith Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I stitution will be permanently freed effort to do exactly that. yield 5 minutes to the gentleman from from the rigors that are associated Let’s keep in mind, Mr. Speaker, this Missouri (Mr. LUETKEMEYER), who is with SIFI designation. If the Fed so is simply not a debate over an arcane the Republican sponsor of the legisla- feels that a bank needs to have contin- definition in law. It is about the real tion and the chairman of our Financial uous oversight, they will do so. I want to take a moment to discuss world effect these regulations have on Services Subcommittee on Financial the score issued by the Congressional the U.S. economy and the working men Institutions and Consumer Credit. Budget Office. CBO opined that this and women whom we represent. Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I bill would result in direct spending. I Let me share with my colleagues want to start by thanking Chairman disagree with the CBO interpretation what the Small Business and Entrepre- HENSARLING for his support of this leg- of what this legislation will do, and I neurship Council has to say about the islation and his dedication to a more believe that my bill will actually cre- importance of the bill that we are de- reasonable regulatory regime. ate a safer financial system. bating today: ‘‘Access to working and I would also like to thank my good At the same time, it is important to growth capital remains a challenge for friend, Representative DAVID SCOTT me and my colleagues that the bill many entrepreneurs and small busi- from Georgia, for being a cosponsor on comes to the taxpayers at no cost. The nesses. H.R. 3312 would improve the the Democrat side and for all the hard offset included in the Rules Committee lending environment and unleash cap- work and support he has given us Print will more than cover any poten- ital by alleviating inappropriate re- throughout this labor of love here on tial hit to the Deposit Insurance Fund quirements imposed on regional and trying to get this thing done. He has and makes this legislation budget-neu- midsize banks under Dodd-Frank. been a champion for us, and we thank tral. Midsize and regional banks, which him sincerely. The bottom line is this: an inefficient many startups and small businesses Today, the House will consider H.R. regulatory structure that does not re- have counted on for lending, have been 3312, the Systemic Risk Designation flect the reality of the U.S. banking negatively affected by this Dodd-Frank Improvement Act of 2017, a bipartisan system can have real economic con- arbitrary trigger.’’ piece of legislation to address an ineffi- sequences. We should no longer let the Mr. Speaker, the American people de- cient regulatory structure by account- SIFI process lead to marketplace dis- serve better. They deserve a healthy ing for actual risk, rather than the size ruption or penalize companies for size economy with growing paychecks, bet- alone in the designation of system- alone. ter jobs, and a brighter future. It is ically important financial institutions, I have worked on this legislation sur- time to restore economic growth fueled or SIFIs. rounding the SIFI designation process by capital flowing from America’s Under the current regulatory frame- for the last 4 years, but I have not done banks to American communities across work for SIFI designations, any bank it alone. H.R. 3312 was drafted in good our Nation. holding company with more than $50 faith with—and with considerable So I urge my colleagues to correct billion in assets is subject to enhanced input from—many of my friends on the this widely acknowledged mistake in regulatory supervision and special as- other side of the aisle as well. Dodd-Frank, even acknowledged by sessments. This approach fails to take Because we worked together, this former Congressman Barney Frank into account differences in business legislation received broad bipartisan himself, and put into place real, dis- models or risks posed to the financial support when it was reported by the Fi- cernible, critical standards, and help system. It has real world implications, nancial Services Committee with a our struggling small businesses on too, stunting economic growth and vote of 47–12. That means nearly 80 per- Main Street. Let’s pass H.R. 3312. limiting access to credit. cent of the committee members voted Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The risk of a traditional bank is not in favor of this legislation. my time. the same as an internationally active I want to thank my colleagues for Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- complex firm. In fact, the Fed has pro- their help in this effort, namely, Mr. er, I yield 30 seconds to the gentleman duced data showing the risk of every SCOTT, Ms. SINEMA, Mr. HILL, Mr. WIL- from Georgia (Mr. DAVID SCOTT). single midsize and regional bank which LIAMS, Mr. STIVERS, Mrs. BEATTY, Mr.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.083 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10223 BUDD, Mr. MEEKS, and Mr. GOTTHEIMER. sponsible regulations and enforces mar- tion, undermining credit availability, This is an important issue, and I hope ket discipline, all while protecting tax- causing weaker jobs and economic our colleagues will join us in sup- payers from unnecessary bailouts. growth in America. porting this bipartisan, commonsense Mr. Speaker, again, I want to ap- For these reasons, I support the Sys- measure. plaud my friend, the gentleman from temic Risk Designation Improvement Mr. Speaker, at the end of the day, Missouri, Chairman LUETKEMEYER, for Act, which will give much-needed this is a bill about being able to allow his leadership on this issue. H.R. 3312 is transparency to the SIFI designation these banks that are caught in a ‘‘Cali- about smarter regulation. I urge all my process and eliminate the arbitrary fornia Hotel’’ situation here to be able colleagues to support Chairman automatic SIFI designation of banks to get out of this with a good analysis LUETKEMEYER’s bill. with $50 billion or more in assets. of their risk profile, their business Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- Under this legislation, banks will be model, because, at the end of the day, er, I continue to reserve the balance of judged by their merits, such as inter- this is what this is all about. Their my time. connectedness, size, cross-jurisdic- business model is not a risk to this Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I tional activity, complexity, and substi- country or the economic system that yield 3 minutes to the gentleman from tutability, and the justifications for a we have. It is not like the inter- Kentucky (Mr. BARR), the chairman of designation will be clearly commu- national connected banks, and, there- the Financial Services Subcommittee nicated to them. The end result will be fore, they shouldn’t be treated as such. on Monetary Policy and Trade. greater credit availability for small As a result, this is important for not Mr. BARR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today businesses, more capital formation, only the midsize banks, but for the in support of a bipartisan bill, the Sys- more help for consumers, greater con- banks below them because the regu- temic Risk Designation Improvement sumer choice, greater economic lators have been also allowing these Act of 2017, introduced by my good growth, and greater competition. sorts of requirements and rules to roll friend and colleague, Congressman Mr. Speaker, again, I want to thank downhill on community banks as well. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER from Missouri. Mr. LUETKEMEYER and Mr. HENSARLING So it is time we put a stop to this. I also want to thank Chairman HEN- for their leadership on this critical It is important that we take a prag- SARLING for his leadership and, for my issue, and I urge my colleagues to vote matic approach to this designation friends on the other side of the aisle, for this legislation. process, to manage actual risk, and particularly Mr. DAVID SCOTT from Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- limit the real threats to our financial Georgia, for his leadership in support er, how much time do I have remain- system. of this legislation. ing? Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- Among the least transparent and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- er, I reserve the balance of my time. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I most mysterious black holes of the tlemen from Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) has yield 3 minutes to the gentlewoman United States Government is the proc- 29 minutes remaining. The gentleman ess under the Dodd-Frank financial from Texas (Mr. HENSARLING) has 141⁄2 from Missouri (Mrs. WAGNER), the chairwoman of the Financial Services control law, by which U.S. financial minutes remaining. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- Subcommittee on Oversight and Inves- firms are designated too big to fail. er, I reserve the balance of my time. tigations. Formally called systemically impor- Mrs. WAGNER. Mr. Speaker, I thank tant financial institutions, or SIFIs, Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, in order to better balance the time on Chairman HENSARLING for his support these firms are considered by all-know- and for yielding me this time. ing Washington bureaucrats as busi- each side, may I inquire if my col- I am proud to rise today in support of nesses so critical to the Nation’s econ- league anticipates having speakers on my colleague, Chairman BLAINE omy that they need to be burdened the bill. LUETKEMEYER, and urge immediate with additional regulations, supervised Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- passage of his bill, the Systemic Risk more strictly to further the cause of er, I do anticipate additional speakers, Designation Improvement Act of 2017. bureaucrats, and designated as a SIFI and I will be making comments myself. H.R. 3312 uses a commonsense ap- to send a clear signal to investors that Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I proach which would allow regulators it is a firm which is most likely to be yield 2 minutes to the gentleman from the opportunity to weigh multiple fac- bailed out by taxpayers during the next Illinois (Mr. HULTGREN), the vice chair- tors before deeming a financial institu- crisis. man of the Financial Services Sub- tion systemically important. For bank SIFIs, there is a one-size- committee on Capital Markets, Securi- More importantly, the bill would fits-all designation model that says ties, and Investments. allow the Financial Stability Oversight that any bank with more than $50 bil- Mr. HULTGREN. Mr. Speaker, I want Council, FSOC, to more precisely iden- lion in assets is automatically a SIFI. to thank Chairman HENSARLING for his tify systemic risk by differentiating Bureaucrats do little to nothing to ac- continued work on this, and I also want between stable activities and those count for the unique nature of each in- to thank my colleague and friend from that would truly threaten the financial stitution that may indicate it is more Missouri, BLAINE LUETKEMEYER, for his stability of the United States. risk adverse or better positioned to important work on this issue. Under the Dodd-Frank Act, the Fed- handle a turbulent economy. Mr. Speaker, I am proud to be a co- eral Reserve was given never-before- Bank SIFIs suffer from the same sponsor on this legislation because it is seen regulatory power to supervise plight, in that they are not told by the an important bill for regional banks in those that were deemed systemically U.S. Government what they need to do Illinois, but also around the country. important. Unfortunately, the Fed has to rid themselves of the shackles of The Financial Services Committee chosen to ignore tailoring their regu- this SIFI designation. Instead, these has spent a significant amount of time latory standards and continues to base firms are left in the dark to guess what debating which banks should qualify as them on asset size alone. they can do to de-risk by Federal regu- so-called community banks and re- If an institution, indeed, is a minimal lators. And even if firms try to make gional banks when determining how to risk, then it is vital to make sure those reforms, they have no idea if the legislate regulatory relief. standards reflect that lower risk. changes they are making will help I have to agree that, as a bank starts Finally, it is important to note that them shed themselves of this arbitrary getting larger, it starts looking less an arbitrary threshold does matter to designation. and less like a community bank. But those caught in the SIFI web. These fi- both Republicans and Democrats have nancial institutions often face signifi- b 1530 agreed that asset size should not be the cant compliance costs under a SIFI In the end, the entire SIFI process sole characteristic for determining a designation, redirecting resources that does little to make our economy bank’s riskiness to the financial sys- otherwise would provide consumers stronger and more resilient. Instead, tem. with affordable financial products. designated U.S. firms and their work- There are a number of banks that Chairman LUETKEMEYER’s bill cre- ers are harmed and disadvantaged rel- have successfully made use of the tra- ates a framework that promotes re- ative to their international competi- ditional community bank business

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.084 H19DEPT1 H10224 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 model of deposit taking and lending Chairman Frank was a dear friend of Proponents of the legislation say this that have grown in size. Some have mine. I knew him well. I still do know is about helping the mom-and-pop grown substantially, and now they are him well. Mr. Speaker, Chairman banks on Main Street—Main Street. able to serve more than one commu- Frank has not endorsed this bill. The Were institutions like Countrywide and nity. language that they have used would Washington Mutual and Wachovia and Congress should not punish these fi- lead an unsuspecting person to con- IndyMac—these are the names that nancial institutions with an asset clude that Chairman Frank supports haunt a lot of Americans. A lot of threshold that even Congressman Bar- this piece of legislation. He does not. American households suffered because ney Frank described as arbitrary. Our I have in my hand a letter from of the behavior of those institutions. policies should encourage low-risk re- Chairman Frank. I will read a portion Were they Main Street banks? lationship lending so communities can of it. He indicates: The fact is, under the bill before us, benefit from institutions of different H.R. 3312 significantly increases the need some of the Nation’s largest banks sizes. At a minimum, we should provide for subjective judgment by the regulators whose failure led to the carnage of 2008 the banking regulators some flexibility and very much weakens the ability of finan- would be exempt from heightened over- to determine which institutions with cial institutions to rely on clear rules to sight. Exactly the kind of institutions assets over $50 billion pose higher risk guide their decisionmaking. that the public wants us to keep an eye to the financial system. Mr. Speaker, without question, on would no longer have that oversight In addition to the outstanding com- Chairman Frank does not support this in place. Of those still standing, 30 of munity banks in my district, my con- legislation. the Nation’s 38 largest financial insti- stituents also look to regional banks My friends have made much to-do tutions would escape sensible oversight like BMO and Discover when they are about the term ‘‘arbitrary and capri- imposed by Dodd-Frank. trying to find best rates on mortgages, cious,’’ a threshold that is arbitrary. Even more than that, this legislation car loans, credit cards, or their student What is more arbitrary than reducing is based on the false premise that the loans. the corporate tax rate from 35 percent reforms of Dodd-Frank were one size Discover Financial Services, which to 21 percent, which you just did? What fits all. That is the phrase we always has its headquarters just outside my is more arbitrary than reducing the in- hear to justify letting go of the reins: district in Riverwoods, Illinois, has a dividual tax rate from 39.6 percent to 37 Oh, it is one size fits all. People can’t simple business model that includes percent, which you just did? fit into this. We have got to do some- credit cards, student loans, home eq- You are the masters of arbitrary and thing. But, no, the agency was given the uity lending, and a number of deposit capricious numbers. That bill that you maneuvering room, the flexibility, to products that you would expect from a just passed is flush with arbitrary and actually customize things and have Main Street financial institution. This capricious numbers. been in a position to do that. is the only business Discover is in. Mr. Speaker, I would suggest that they examine their thoughts about ar- There was a premium put on regu- Nothing they do is comparable to what latory flexibility, explicitly instruct- you might see in one of the big money bitrary and capricious before we continue, because I have more to say ing the Federal Reserve to tailor its center banks. prudential regulatory regime based on about arbitrary and capricious num- So why did Congress mandate that size and risk profile of financial insti- bers. this bank be automatically designated tutions. Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the as systemically important? The cur- Ironically, the changes to asset gentleman from Maryland (Mr. SAR- rent law is arbitrary and subjects thresholds will increase the likelihood banks to the same standards as tril- BANES), my colleague. of consolidation as large financial in- Mr. SARBANES. Mr. Speaker, I want lion-dollar global systemically impor- stitutions and banks can now grow, tant institutions. to thank my colleague for yielding that is, buy out small players beyond Automatically designating these in- time to me. the $50 billion threshold. The banks are stitutions as systemically important Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong going to start growing bigger again. unnecessarily increases the cost of opposition to H.R. 3312. I appreciate my The financial institutions are going to lending and makes it more difficult for colleague’s redesignation, renaming of get heavier again. It makes it easier my constituents to achieve their finan- the bill. I think it is much more appro- for them to crash through whatever cial goals. priate. guardrails we can build. Mr. Speaker, I encourage my col- Mr. Speaker, this is a completely un- The public doesn’t want this, and leagues to support the Systemic Risk warranted piece of legislation. If you that means true community banks Designation Improvement Act of 2017. look at it, it is just another gift to the very well might be absorbed by super- Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- wealthy and the well connected on regional banks, which would decrease er, I yield myself such time as I may Wall Street. consumer credit access and worsen consume. We keep saying that over here be- pricing. Mr. Speaker, because I believe in cause it is true. It is crazy. In 2008, the Mr. Speaker, Americans are tired of truth in labeling, truth in titling, truth economy was brought to its knees. watching this Congress forget the les- in the style of legislation, Mr. Speaker, Reckless behavior out there by a lot of sons of the 2008 financial crash. They I believe that this bill should be appro- these huge institutions. The Nation’s are tired of a Congress that routinely priately styled the Big Bank Bonus largest financial institutions crashed favors Wall Street over the interests of Bill. the economy. Everybody knows it. Main Street, and they are tired of the As a matter of fact, Mr. Speaker, I So what did we do? We took steps, same worn-out talking points that are ask unanimous consent that this bill smart steps. We put in place the Wall used to justify deregulation of Wall be styled the Big Bank Bonus Bill. Street Reform and Consumer Protect Street. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Act of 2010. I think most Americans Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Chair cannot entertain the gentleman’s were comforted by that. They felt, oppose this bill. request. okay. There are guardrails in place Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- now so this kind of thing can’t happen yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman er, I am sorry? again. from Minnesota (Mr. EMMER), a hard- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The But the fact of the matter is that, as working member of the Financial Serv- Chair cannot entertain that request as soon as the ink was dry on that law, ices Committee. the majority manager has not yielded lobbyists moved in, the special inter- Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I thank for that purpose. ests moved in, and they started to un- the gentleman for yielding time to me. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. A UC re- wind the core provisions, and the Mr. Speaker, 10 years ago, some of quest. guardrails are starting to come down. America’s largest financial institu- Mr. Speaker, my friends on the other This is crazy. This is a case of amne- tions failed, resulting in near collapse side have said much about Barney sia at best or cynical capitulation to of our entire financial system. The ex- Frank. Wall Street at worst. perience destroyed businesses, ruined

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.086 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10225 lives across the country, and left fear Well, you may use your own time. parable to what we are about to go and uncertainty in its wake. Mr. HENSARLING. I am going to re- through now. Banks were regulated to Congress set out to prevent a future spectfully decline the opportunity. the extent that they couldn’t do all of crisis by requiring enhanced super- Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- these things, but we deregulated, just vision and regulation of some of the er, the arbitrary numbers that they as we are about to do it now, and we biggest financial institutions in the have they don’t care to defend. will get back to the future, where country by passing the Dodd-Frank Let’s talk about the one-size-fits-all banks will not have the liquidity nec- Act. In Dodd-Frank, Congress defined accusation, if you will. essary, where the credit risk that they the largest financial institutions as Mr. Speaker, I have a source, and it take will be unreasonable. ‘‘systematically important financial is the Department of the Treasury, This is a bill that belongs on the institutions,’’ more commonly referred which indicates that we have a tiered trash heap of history. I adamantly op- to as SIFIs, those with more than $50 system, and we actually have five dif- pose the bill. I believe that it is time billion in assets. ferent tiers. These tiers will allow for us to take the stand that the Amer- The goal of preventing our Nation’s banks to be classified as small, ican people want us to take, not the largest financial institutions from fail- midsize, regional, international active, stand that the big banks would have us ing and bringing down our entire finan- and G-SIBs. take. cial system is laudable. The problem, b 1545 This is a big bank bonus. The big however, is Dodd-Frank’s definition of banks love this bill. Thirty banks are what constitutes a SIFI: the $50 billion There is a tiering system, but within going to be relieved of their obligation asset threshold. In fact, the creator of the tiering system, we have given the to let us know how to put them out of the threshold and former chair of the regulators the authority to tailor rules their misery in the event that they are Financial Services Committee, Barney to fit banks within the system. about to bring the banking system Frank, admits the threshold is arbi- Mr. Speaker, my colleague men- down. Thirty banks. These are big trary, and he supports changing the tioned institution failure. I was here. I banks, $500 billion max. Big banks. threshold. know what happened in 2008. I under- These banks will continue to give us H.R. 3312, the Systemic Risk Des- stand why we have Dodd-Frank. We their stress test so that we can know ignation Improvement Act, removes don’t have Dodd-Frank because Mr. what their liquidity is and understand the arbitrary asset threshold and, in- Dodd and Mr. Frank woke up one their credit worthiness by virtue of the stead, will classify the largest financial morning and decided that they would loans that they make. institutions by their activities. Dif- like to regulate banks to the extent This bill is what the big banks want, ferentiating between stable activities that they were regulated. but not the American people. and those that could potentially We have Dodd-Frank because we had Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as she threaten the financial stability of the a crisis. We had Dodd-Frank developed may consume to the gentlewoman from United States is a more accurate way because of exotic products, the 327s and California (Ms. MAXINE WATERS), the to identify and monitor risk. the 228s, which had teaser rates that ranking member. Mr. Speaker, I ask all my colleagues would allow persons to get into loans Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. to support this important and appro- that had fixed rates for 3 years or 2 Mr. Speaker, first I would like to priate policy change to ensure the con- years, and then they would have 27 thank Congressman GREEN for his lead- tinued stability of our financial system years of variable rates or 28 years of ership. He is a member of the Financial by passing H.R. 3312. variable rates. Services Committee, who is dedicated Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- This was the exotic product that a to the proposition that we can and er, I yield myself such time as I may good many people had and could not should work very hard to implement consume. get out of because, quite frankly, they Dodd-Frank. I would like to engage my friend also had a prepayment penalty that He has done a wonderful job in rep- from Minnesota, if I may, before he would coincide with these teaser rates. resenting all of the people of this coun- leaves. Would the gentleman please not It was a time of great crisis for bank- try when it comes to this issue of leave? ing. whether or not we are going to allow Would Mr. HENSARLING ask the gen- We also had the so-called credit de- the biggest banks in this country to re- tleman not to leave? I want to engage fault swaps, which were just another vert back to the practices that they him. way of laying off bets. Banks found have been involved in historically, I would like to engage Mr. EMMER, if clever ways to lay off their bets that where it caused us to be into a situa- he will come back, please. I would like they thought were risky. tion that caused the recession in 2008 to engage with the gentleman for just We had no-doc loans, negative amor- or whether or not we are going to a moment if I may. tization. You could pay as much as you honor the work of Dodd-Frank and the The gentleman declines. wanted and would add to the principal reforms that were instituted and be Is there anyone on the other side what you didn’t pay, which means that about the business of fairness and jus- that I can talk to? you would end up paying a lot more for tice. I ask Mr. HENSARLING, is 39.6 arbi- your loan than you initially started I want to thank Mr. GREEN for his trary, reducing the taxes on individ- out owing. work, for his leadership, and for man- uals from 39.6 to 37? What is 37? Why is We had interest-only loans: just pay aging this most important legislation it not arbitrary? the interest, let the loan continue to today. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, is increase in value. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong opposi- the gentleman prepared to yield me There was no firewall between com- tion to H.R. 3312, the Systemic Risk time? mercial banking and investment bank- Designation Improvement Act. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Pardon? ing. They finally got Glass-Steagall. At a time when big banks are doing Mr. HENSARLING. Is the gentleman Took them decades to do it, but they very well and the industry made record prepared to yield me time? did. profits—more than $171 billion last Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. I yield Then we had the dastardly yield year—and business lending has in- time. Yes, of course. spread premium, which would allow the creased 75 percent since Dodd-Frank Mr. HENSARLING. How much time person who was servicing you, the loan was signed into law, now is not the does the gentleman yield me? originator, to qualify you for a loan at time to eliminate critical safeguards Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. I yield. 5 percent, come out and shake your and reduce oversight of many of our Mr. HENSARLING. I inquire of the hand and say: Good news, you now have largest banks. gentleman how much time is he yield- a loan for 10 percent. H.R. 3312 will roll back the enhanced ing? I don’t wish to be cut off. That was all lawful, but Dodd-Frank prudential standards that currently Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. I yield you ended all of this. apply to the 30 of the largest banks such time as I may deem necessary, if We have Dodd-Frank because we had with more than $50 billion in assets. you will take time. a deregulation era, very much com- These are some of the most important

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.088 H19DEPT1 H10226 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 rules in Dodd-Frank, like enhanced it easier for the largest banks to ac- and not have an arbitrary number of capital and stress testing that are crit- quire smaller ones, accelerating a 30- $50 billion. ical to maintaining a safe and sound year consolidation trend. Several Federal Reserve officials banking system that supports the Reasonable people can disagree on have expressed that similar view. Mr. broader economy. how best to dial up or down some of Frank, as noted, has expressed that Proponents of this bill argue that these enhanced standards and tier view. So here comes Mr. LUETKEMEYER Dodd-Frank imposed a one-size-fits-all them more effectively—and I know my with an excellent idea, an idea of an ac- approach to any bank over $50 billion. colleagues have good intentions—but tivities-based designation that the Fed But the law makes clear that the Fed this proposal goes way, way too far in has designed itself, Mr. Speaker. should tier and tailor its rules to dif- reversing strong oversight of the Na- The Federal Reserve has designed the ferentiate between even these large tion’s largest banks. Even a Senate bill metric we are using to say that an in- banks ‘‘on an individual basis or by that resembles Chairman HENSARLING’s stitution is systemically important. It category, taking into consideration ‘‘Wrong Choice Act’’ is far less aggres- is activities-based so that we can dis- their capital structure, riskiness, com- sive, raising the $50 billion threshold to tinguish between levels of risk that plexity, financial activities (including $250 billion, although even that pro- might be systemically important to the financial activities of their subsidi- posal would be damaging. our country. aries), size, and any other risk-related Let me close by emphasizing that The SPEAKER pro tempore. The factors that the Board of Governors H.R. 3312 represents one of the largest time of the gentleman has expired. deems appropriate.’’ rollbacks of sensible rules for many of Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I There is no one-size-fits-all mandate our largest banks, including a dozen yield an additional 30 seconds to the and the Fed has indeed tailored these foreign banks, at a time when the in- gentleman from Arkansas. rules. For example, the prudential dustry is making record profits, and Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the rules for a trillion-dollar bank are such a bill would hurt and make it chairman for the time. much tougher compared to those that harder for community banks to com- So activity-based standards have al- apply to a $250 billion bank and consid- pete. ready been found effective by the Fed- erably more so compared to a $50 bil- For these reasons, I strongly urge eral Reserve. They work and they were lion bank. Members to oppose this bill, H.R. 3312. used in evaluating acquisitions on re- Yet, after 18 months, this bill would Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- gional banking companies. So Mr. exempt 30 of our largest banks from en- er, what is the amount of time remain- LUETKEMEYER is on to a good idea. Mr. hanced oversight, and it replaces the ing? Speaker, instead of using $50 billion $50 billion threshold with a cum- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- that was plucked out of thin air in the bersome, discretionary process led by tleman from Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) has dead of night in the conference com- the Federal Reserve along with the 101⁄2 minutes remaining. The gentleman mittee in 2010, let’s reflect on 7 years FSOC. We have a similar process for from Texas (Mr. HENSARLING) has 11 and operate in a better way. designating non-bank financial bank minutes remaining. So I urge support of this bill, Mr. companies, like AIG, which have posed Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I Speaker. I thank Mr. LUETKEMEYER for a systemic risk. So it is strange that am now pleased to yield 2 minutes to bringing it. I urge our Senators on the Republicans are now pushing a similar the gentleman from Arkansas (Mr. approach after they repeatedly blasted other end of this building to look at HILL), a member of the Financial Serv- the same FSOC designation process for this as a model for how we should re- ices Committee and our Republican being arbitrary, opaque, unfair, and un- form Dodd-Frank in their own bill. whip. workable. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, I thank the Those designations were heavily liti- er, I yield myself 2 minutes. chairman for the time. gated, if not blocked in court, as these Mr. Speaker, this bill does not im- I rise in strong support of H.R. 3312, new designations by the Federal Re- pact 99 percent, approximately, of the a bipartisan bill. A majority of the ma- serve and the FSOC would likely be. banks. Most banks in this country have jority party and a majority of the mi- Currently, there is only one non-bank assets—about 89 to 90 percent of designated by the FSOC through this nority party on our committee re- them—of $1 billion or under. ported this bill to the House floor. It is process, so we should expect there 1600 sponsored by my friend, Chairman b would be hardly any designations This bill is for the big banks. The big through H.R. 3312. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER, who has spent banks are doing quite well. Last year, Who are these 30 massive banks that years studying Dodd-Frank, seven long the banks made record profits of $171 stand to benefit? years of studying the impact of Dodd- These banks collectively hold more Frank, and how to improve it. billion. Community banks grew at 8.3 than $5 trillion in assets or one-fourth This bill removes a requirement that percent, and big banks grew at a 4.8 of all banking assets in the United uses $50 billion as an asset test to des- percent rate. They are lending to busi- States. Of the 30 banks, 12 of them are ignate whether a banking company in nesses at a record level. foreign banks, including Deutsche this country is systemically important So the contention cannot be that Bank, HSBC, Credit Suisse, and UBS. and, if they are, subject them to higher they are doing this because banks are These banks have violated a wide range regulatory standards. losing money. It has very little to do of U.S. laws, including anti-money But instead of ending too-big-to-fail, with how much money they are losing. laundering and unlawful trading prac- Dodd-Frank’s misguided designation It has a lot to do with the fact that big tices, so I have no clue why Congress regime just entrenches it, Mr. Speaker. banks would like to be deregulated so should even consider doing those banks Authorizing the government to des- that they can get back to the business any favors. ignate large financial institutions as as usual that caused the crisis of 2008. For all the talk about helping out systemically important creates a new Mr. Speaker, there are 30 big banks small community banks that serve our class of firms that markets will inter- this bill will impact worth more than customers well in our rural and under- pret and assume are too big to fail. $5 trillion in assets. This bill is not served neighborhoods, there is not a The SIFI designation, as noted by needed because, if this bill is imple- single provision that helps out these many Members on this side of the aisle, mented, it will cause the banks to no thousands of community banks and is, in fact, arbitrary, and I respect my longer be placed under the $50 billion their customers. While some charac- friend that other numbers in statute threshold, except by way of regulation terize this bill as helping ‘‘medium- may be arbitrary as well. But this one from the prudential regulator, which sized’’ banks, the medium-sized bank doesn’t have any economic basis on won’t happen easily. has only about $200 million in assets or why the participants in designing MetLife is a pretty good example of roughly 250 times less than the massive Dodd-Frank picked $50 billion. what can happen. Currently, MetLife is banks that benefit by this bill. But over the past 7 years, we have in court. They are tied up in court, More troubling, instead of helping had witness after witness tell us that probably indefinitely, because the big community banks, the bill would make we should look a different direction banks have big bucks, and they are

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.089 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10227 going to fight being designated as visers, our retirement advisers and and the second on whether the ac- SIFIs. credit unions will be able to focus on counts of President Donald Trump and MetLife is fighting it. It is an insur- growing the economy and extending his family members held at the bank ance company, of course, but it is credit so our families can get a home had any ties to Russia. fighting it. If they are going to fight mortgage, maybe buy another auto- Deutsche Bank’s external counsel re- the designation, you have to have some mobile, or maybe one of the sponded, stating that Deutsche Bank way to put them under the stress test, lobstermen can get a new diesel put in was unable to cooperate with the re- under the living wills test. This has to their boat for the season. quest, citing privacy concerns. be done. The is a good bill, Mr. Speaker. I am On May 23, 2017, committee Demo- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. POE grateful that Mr. LUETKEMEYER intro- crats all sent a letter to Treasury Sec- of Texas). The time of the gentleman duced H.R. 3312. I encourage everybody retary Steven Mnuchin requesting that has expired. on both sides of the aisle to help Amer- FinCEN provide any records to the Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- ican businesses and families by sup- committee that detail President er, I yield myself an additional 30 sec- porting this bill. Trump’s financial ties to Russia as well onds. Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- as those of his family, his family mem- If you don’t have a trigger, it is not er, may I inquire as to the amount of bers, and associates. Secretary likely to be done, because the banks time I have remaining. Mnuchin failed to respond. It goes on and on and on. Letters are going to fight you all the way The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- were sent on June 21. We sent a follow- through the courts and tie you up for tleman from Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) has up letter to Deutsche Bank. On and on years. 8 minutes remaining. and on. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- 1 What is important about all of this is yield 2 ⁄2 minutes to the gentleman er, I yield 4 minutes to the gentle- Deutsche Bank is known and has been from Maine (Mr. POLIQUIN), a very woman from California (Ms. MAXINE fined for many things, including money hardworking member of our com- WATERS). laundering. So, knowing that, what we mittee. Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. are doing here is lifting oversight on Mr. POLIQUIN. Mr. Speaker, all busi- Mr. Speaker, I think it is important to Deutsche Bank, one of the fallen banks nesses in America, large and small, talk about what is happening in this that would be covered by this bill. should be fairly and predictably regu- country with this administration at I think this is outrageous. I think lated, including those companies in the this time. It is so related to what we people should know what this bill is all financial services industry. are trying to explain about what this about and how it is going to put us at Now, Mr. Speaker, when the real es- bill attempts to do. greater risk. We are dealing with lim- tate market collapsed in 2008, Wash- First of all, let me just share with iting the oversight of banks like Deut- ington did what it does often. It over- you that committee Democrats have sche Bank. reacted by imposing smothering layers made repeated attempts to follow the Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- of new regulations on small commu- Trump money trail and investigate the er, how much time does the other gen- nity banks, credit unions, and retire- suspicious financial dealings of the tleman from Texas have remaining? ment advisers, when it should, Mr. President, his immediate family and The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Speaker, have focused its attention on his associates, including their possible tleman from Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) has eight or nine large, major money cen- involvement in illicit Russian financial 41⁄2 minutes remaining. The gentleman ter banks that have tentacles that run schemes. from Texas (Mr. HENSARLING) has 6 throughout our economy. Since March, Democrats have writ- minutes remaining. Mr. Speaker, the goal of Dodd-Frank ten six letters—two to committee Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I was to increase regulations on finan- Chairman HENSARLING, one to Deut- might point out to the ranking mem- cial institutions that could bring down sche Bank, one to Deutsche Bank CEO ber that she should read her mail, since the economy if they got in trouble. John Cryan, two to Treasury Secretary I responded to her letter. Now, the problem, Mr. Speaker, is Steve Mnuchin, and another to Deut- Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 minutes to that this regulatory net was cast so sche Bank’s external counsel, request- the gentleman from Ohio (Mr. DAVID- wide, it caught our small community ing their cooperation in exposing the SON), a hardworking member of the Fi- banks and credit unions in having to scope of Russian influence on the nancial Services Committee. deal with costly, unnecessary, and re- Trump administration. Mr. DAVIDSON. Mr. Speaker, I am so pleased to join Mr. LUETKEMEYER in dundant regulations. I have also written two letters on my I travel the State of Maine, Mr. own—one to Attorney General Jeff Ses- supporting his bill. I am so encouraged Speaker, and meet with our small fi- sions, another to Deputy Attorney that this is a bipartisan bill. Listening to the Members opposed, I nancial institutions. They tell me: General Rod Rosenstein, regarding the am concerned that the bill is being BRUCE, we are spending so much time Department of Justice’s investigation highly mischaracterized. It occurred to into Deutsche Bank’s Russian mirror and money hiring compliance officers me that when the Member opposed trading scheme. to deal with these regulations instead mentioned that 97 percent of banks On March 10, 2017, committee Demo- of loan officers to make sure we get would not be affected by this, that it crats called on Chairman HENSARLING money out to our families and our automatically excludes 97 percent of to use the full range of the committee’s small businesses can borrow and grow. banks from being affected by this. investigative powers to examine Deut- God forbid, Mr. Speaker, that the Mr. LUETKEMEYER doesn’t pick a Bangor Savings Bank or the Maine sche Bank’s Russian money laundering number and say big is bad. He says: Family Federal Credit Union in Lewis- operation and assess the integrity of Let’s judge the bank by its behavior, ton gets into trouble. If they do, they the U.S. Department of Justice’s ongo- not by the size of its balance sheet. will not bring down this economy. ing investigation into the scheme, This is a rational, measured ap- Why in the world should they be im- given the Trump administration’s con- proach, and that is why it has drawn posing or have to deal with this addi- flicts of interest in the matter and the bipartisan support. It is focused on tional layer of regulations as they are revelations of Attorney General Ses- solving the problem, not driving regu- designated as a SIFI? sions’ communications with the Rus- latory burdens. Mr. LUETKEMEYER’s bill is a terrific sian Ambassador. Chairman HEN- Let me explain that the SIFI des- bill. It is common sense. It is bipar- SARLING failed to respond. We have ignation is an arbitrary number, and it tisan. It will require the Federal Re- heard nothing from our chairman. subjects banks with $50 billion or more serve to finally factor in the role and On May 23, 2017, committee Demo- in assets to the same standards as tril- the function of these financial institu- crats sent a letter to Deutsche Bank’s lion-dollar globally important finan- tions in the economy, instead of arbi- chief executive officer, John Cryan, re- cial banks. trarily based on assets. questing information on two internal So a bank with $51 billion would be This means, Mr. Speaker, that our reviews the bank reportedly conducted, regulated the same way as JPMorgan community banks and our pension ad- the first on its mirror trading scandal Chase, for example.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.092 H19DEPT1 H10228 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 Even former Chair Barney Frank, as Ms. MAXINE WATERS of California. been designated as SIFIs for a reason. has been mentioned, seized the prob- Mr. Speaker, I rise to correct my chair- They ought to have to let the regu- lem. Janet Yellen seized the problem. man—I do not like to do this—however, lators know how they can be wound People look at it and say: What can I did check my mail, and I have discov- down in the event there is a crisis in be a solution? ered that when he responded to the Au- the economy. They ought to undergo The Federal Reserve has seen a pos- gust 11 letter, he let me know that he stress tests. sible solution as judging the character would not use his subpoena power to If a consumer wants a loan, the con- of the business activity. Mr. LUETKE- help us out. He did not respond at all to sumer has to demonstrate credit- MEYER’s bill firmly addresses that. the March 10 letter. worthiness. If banks of this size are A simple asset threshold captures nu- Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I going to remain in business, they merous banks that are widely per- happen to have the letter in my hand. ought to let us know what their liquid- ceived to be no threat to financial sta- I would be happy to share it with the ity is and be required to have a certain bility. It also distorts growth deci- ranking member if she has misfiled it. amount of liquidity that will cause sions. Mr. Speaker, I yield 30 seconds to the them to stay in business, even when we Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- gentleman from New Jersey (Mr. are faced with a crisis. They ought to er, I yield 1 minute to the gentlewoman GOTTHEIMER), a Democratic col- be tested for their creditworthiness. from Wisconsin (Ms. MOORE). league. That is what we currently have. Ms. MOORE. Mr. Speaker, Mr. If the $50 billion threshold is re- b 1615 LUETKEMEYER might have had a good leased, then they will be placed under idea, but what we have really seen is Mr. GOTTHEIMER. Mr. Speaker, I the designation of SIFI only by regu- an arbitrary FSOC and a Republican- rise to support this bipartisan legisla- lators; and MetLife is proof positive controlled Federal Reserve Board that tion and to thank my friend, Mr. that it is difficult, if not impossible, to operates without quorums. This may LUETKEMEYER, for working across the do. be a good idea, but until we have a fi- aisle with me on this commonsense AIG went under simply because it nancial regulatory framework where measure. was already known to be a system- we can trust the people in charge, I This bill is a smart, thoughtful effort ically important institution. think that we should not support this to perfect and improve our financial Mr. Speaker, we must defeat this bill. bill. safeguards, cut burdensome regulation, I call on my colleagues to vote against Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I and spur economic growth. Developed it. It is a big-bank-bonus bill. yield 11⁄2 minutes to the gentleman with Democrats and Republicans on Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance from Indiana (Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH), a the committee, it addresses our sys- of my time. member of the Financial Services Com- tematic risk in the financial sector. Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, I mittee. With these changes, we can free up yield myself such time as I may con- Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH. Mr. Speaker, resources at smaller banks to get loans sume. I rise today in strong support of H.R. into the hands of New Jersey small First, I want to thank my colleague, 3312. businesses, families, and consumers, ul- the gentleman from Texas, for coming This bill is really important to Hoo- timately growing our American econ- to the floor. I know how busy he is siers back home. Hoosiers back home omy. It does so by making practical with his impeachment activities, so we aren’t checking the financial state- changes to protect New Jersey. are glad he has had an opportunity to ments of banks around the country. Mr. Speaker, I urge support for this come and share his views on this par- What they are checking are their own bipartisan legislation to help constitu- ticular bill. financial statements. ents in New Jersey’s Fifth District. He spent a lot of time telling us who According to the FDIC, the total bal- Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- wasn’t for the bill, but he didn’t tell us ance of commercial and industrial er, I yield myself such time as I may who was for it. And I would, once loans smaller than $1 million has in- consume. again, inform my friend, my colleague creased by only 0.18 percent since 2018, Mr. Speaker, I think that we have to from Texas, that not only is every sin- when the U.S. GDP has grown by 26 reemphasize that Chairman Frank is gle Republican member of the House percent. not supporting this bill. I thought that Financial Services Committee for this The total balance of nonfarm residen- the initial comment would be suffi- bill, but a majority of the Democrats tial loans has declined by almost 25 cient, but, again, I will read what on the committee are for this bill. Per- percent during the same time period. Chairman Frank has delivered to us. haps that is why he could find so few This is adversely impacting Hoosiers He indicates that H.R. 3312 signifi- Democrats to speak out against it. back home and their ability to get cap- cantly increases the need for subjective So what we have heard, Mr. Speaker, ital and loans to be able to start busi- judgments by the regulators and very is my colleague and the ranking mem- nesses. much weakens the ability of financial ber vociferously defend the whole idea Frequently, I get the opportunity to institutions to rely on clear rules to that there should be institutions that stand up here and talk about one-size- guide their decisionmaking. Chairman are too big to fail. As they defend the fits-all regulation. But in this par- Frank does not support this bill. Dodd-Frank Act, Mr. Speaker, I would ticular instance, we are truly talking Mr. Speaker, this bill is not before like to point out that, yet again, the about one-size-restricting-all regula- the House because banks are losing big banks have gotten bigger. Under tion. money. Banks are making record prof- their regulatory scheme, the big banks Chairman LUETKEMEYER uses a very its: $171 billion last year. The big have gotten bigger and the commu- strong approach. Instead of, as the ar- banks, a 4.8 percent growth rate; and nities banks have become fewer. chitects of section 165 in Dodd-Frank, community banks, an 8.3 percent And now what they are telling us is: using size as a proxy for risk, he simply growth rate. Oh, no, we have got to protect this re- said: Let’s use their underlying risk as This bill is before the House because gime. an indicator of their actual risk. He the big banks want to again get back Well, I don’t believe in it. But what I does this by using a system already put to business as usual, which will allow do believe in, Mr. Speaker, and what in place by the Federal Reserve in ac- them to do many of the things that Mr. LUETKEMEYER believes in, is that tually tracking the variables that indi- brought this economy to its knees. we need to try to find some bipartisan cate risk of an institution. Mr. Speaker, how much time do I solutions, some common ground, to try I strongly support the measure. I have remaining? to make some common sense out of continue to strongly support the re- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- some of these regulations. moval of arbitrary lines in regulation. tleman from Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) has What is fascinating to me is so many Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- 11⁄2 minutes remaining. of the Obama-era regulators have said er, I yield 30 seconds to the gentle- Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- this $50 billion threshold makes no woman from California (Ms. MAXINE er, we have 30 banks with assets in ex- sense. Usually, my Democratic col- WATERS). cess of $5 trillion. These banks have leagues will quote Mr. Tarullo, they

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:25 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.093 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10229 will quote Janet Yellen, or they will Brownley (CA) Hice, Jody B. Pittenger DelBene Langevin Price (NC) Buchanan Higgins (LA) Poe (TX) DeSaulnier Larson (CT) Quigley quote Mr. Curry. Well, all of them have Buck Higgins (NY) Poliquin Deutch Lawrence Raskin said that the $50 billion threshold is es- Bucshon Hill Posey Dingell Lee Roybal-Allard sentially arbitrary and does not work. Budd Himes Ratcliffe Doggett Levin Ruppersberger So, at the end of the day, what it is Burgess Holding Reed Doyle, Michael Lewis (GA) Rush Byrne Hollingsworth Reichert F. Lieu, Ted Ryan (OH) doing, Mr. Speaker, is putting in an ad- Calvert Hudson Rice (NY) Duncan (TN) Lofgren Sa´ nchez ditional regulatory burden on banks Ca´ rdenas Huizenga Rice (SC) Ellison Lowenthal Sarbanes that pose no systemic risk to our econ- Carter (GA) Hultgren Richmond Engel Lowey Schakowsky omy, making it more difficult to ex- Carter (TX) Hunter Roby Eshoo Lujan Grisham, Schiff Chabot Hurd Roe (TN) Espaillat M. Scott (VA) tend credit to hardworking Americans Cheney Issa Rogers (AL) Evans Luja´ n, Ben Ray Serrano who need it. But for people who just Clay Jenkins (KS) Rogers (KY) Frankel (FL) Maloney, Shea-Porter voted against tax relief for hard- Coffman Jenkins (WV) Rohrabacher Fudge Carolyn B. Sires Gabbard Matsui Slaughter working Americans, I guess that is Cole Johnson (LA) Rokita Collins (GA) Johnson (OH) Rooney, Francis Gallego McCollum Smith (WA) what I would expect. Collins (NY) Johnson, E. B. Rooney, Thomas Garamendi McGovern Speier Now they want to make sure that Comer Johnson, Sam J. Gomez McNerney Swalwell (CA) they don’t have tax relief, they don’t Comstock Jordan Ros-Lehtinen Green, Al Meng Takano Conaway Joyce (OH) Rosen Grijalva Moore Thompson (CA) have mortgages, and they don’t have Connolly Katko Roskam Gutie´rrez Moulton Thompson (MS) credit cards. That is what they are de- Cook Kelly (IL) Ross Hanabusa Nadler Titus fending, Mr. Speaker, and it is wrong. Cooper Kelly (MS) Rothfus Hastings Neal Tonko Correa Kelly (PA) Hoyer Nolan Tsongas On a bipartisan basis, today, I believe Rouzer Costa Kihuen Royce (CA) Huffman Norcross Vargas ´ we are going to vote for H.R. 3312 and Costello (PA) Kilmer Ruiz Jackson Lee O’Rourke Velazquez make some sense out of this SIFI rule, Courtney Kind Russell Jayapal Pallone Visclosky Cramer King (IA) Rutherford Johnson (GA) Panetta Walz and we will have a better America to- Crawford King (NY) Jones Pascrell Wasserman morrow. Sanford Crist Kinzinger Schneider Kaptur Payne Schultz Keating Pelosi Waters, Maxine Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Cuellar Knight Schrader Khanna Perlmutter Watson Coleman of my time. Culberson Krishnamoorthi Schweikert Kildee Pingree Welch Curbelo (FL) Kustoff (TN) Scott, Austin The SPEAKER pro tempore. All time Kuster (NH) Polis Yarmuth Curtis Labrador Scott, David Davidson LaHood for debate has expired. Sensenbrenner Davis, Rodney LaMalfa NOT VOTING—13 Pursuant to House Resolution 667, Sessions Delaney Lamborn Sewell (AL) Bridenstine Loudermilk Renacci the previous question is ordered on the Demings Lance Sherman Brooks (AL) Lynch Scalise bill, as amended. Denham Larsen (WA) Shimkus Cummings Messer Smith (TX) Dent Latta The question is on the engrossment Shuster Jeffries Napolitano DeSantis Lawson (FL) Kennedy Pocan and third reading of the bill. Simpson DesJarlais Lewis (MN) Sinema The bill was ordered to be engrossed Diaz-Balart Lipinski b 1649 Smith (MO) and read a third time, and was read the Donovan LoBiondo Smith (NE) Duffy Loebsack Ms. JACKSON LEE changed her vote third time. Smith (NJ) Duncan (SC) Long from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. For Smucker Dunn Love Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Ms. EDDIE BER- what purpose does the gentleman from Emmer Lucas Soto Stefanik NICE JOHNSON of Texas, and Mr. Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) seek recogni- Estes (KS) Luetkemeyer Stewart RICHMOND changed their vote from tion? Esty (CT) MacArthur Farenthold Maloney, Sean Stivers ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ Suozzi Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- Faso Marchant So the bill was passed. er, I rise to remind my colleague that Ferguson Marino Taylor Tenney The result of the vote was announced he will have another chance to vote on Fitzpatrick Marshall Thompson (PA) as above recorded. impeachment and to ask for a recorded Fleischmann Massie Flores Mast Thornberry A motion to reconsider was laid on Tiberi vote. Fortenberry McCarthy the table. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Foster McCaul Tipton Torres Stated against: tleman is not recognized for debate. Foxx McClintock Frelinghuysen McEachin Trott Mr. LYNCH. Mr. Speaker, I inadvernty The question now is on the passage of Turner Gaetz McHenry missed the vote for final passage of H.R. the bill. Gallagher McKinley Upton 3312, the Systemic Risk Designation Improve- The question was taken; and the Garrett McMorris Valadao Gianforte Rodgers Veasey ment Act of 2017. Had I been present, I would Speaker pro tempore announced that Gibbs McSally Vela have voted ‘‘Nay’’ on rollcall 694. the ayes appeared to have it. Gohmert Meadows Wagner Mr. HENSARLING. Mr. Speaker, on Gonzalez (TX) Meehan Walberg f Goodlatte Meeks Walden that I demand the yeas and nays. Gosar Mitchell Walker COMBATING HUMAN TRAFFICKING The yeas and nays were ordered. Gottheimer Moolenaar Walorski IN COMMERCIAL VEHICLES ACT Walters, Mimi The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Gowdy Mooney (WV) The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- ant to clause 8 of rule XX, this 15- Granger Mullin Weber (TX) Graves (GA) Murphy (FL) Webster (FL) finished business is the vote on the mo- minute vote on passage of H.R. 3312 Graves (LA) Newhouse Wenstrup tion to suspend the rules and pass the will be followed by 5-minute votes on: Graves (MO) Noem Westerman bill (S. 1536) to designate a human traf- The motion to suspend the rules and Green, Gene Norman Williams Griffith Nunes Wilson (FL) ficking prevention coordinator and to pass the bill, S. 1536, by the yeas and Grothman O’Halleran Wilson (SC) expand the scope of activities author- nays; and Guthrie Olson Wittman ized under the Federal Motor Carrier Agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of Handel Palazzo Womack Safety Administration’s outreach and the Journal, if ordered. Harper Palmer Woodall Harris Paulsen Yoder education program to include human The vote was taken by electronic de- Hartzler Pearce Yoho trafficking prevention activities, and vice, and there were—yeas 288, nays Heck Perry Young (AK) for other purposes, on which the yeas 130, not voting 13, as follows: Hensarling Peters Young (IA) Herrera Beutler Peterson Zeldin and nays were ordered. [Roll No. 694] The Clerk read the title of the bill. YEAS—288 NAYS—130 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Abraham Barr Bishop (UT) Adams Butterfield Clarke (NY) question is on the motion offered by Aderholt Barton Black Aguilar Capuano Cleaver the gentleman from Missouri (Mr. Allen Beatty Blackburn Barraga´ n Carbajal Clyburn Amash Bera Blum Bass Carson (IN) Cohen GRAVES) that the House suspend the Amodei Bergman Blunt Rochester Blumenauer Cartwright Crowley rules and pass the bill. Arrington Beyer Bost Bonamici Castor (FL) Davis (CA) This is a 5-minute vote. Babin Biggs Brady (TX) Boyle, Brendan Castro (TX) Davis, Danny The vote was taken by electronic de- Bacon Bilirakis Brat F. Chu, Judy DeFazio Banks (IN) Bishop (GA) Brooks (IN) Brady (PA) Cicilline DeGette vice, and there were—yeas 418, nays 1, Barletta Bishop (MI) Brown (MD) Bustos Clark (MA) DeLauro not voting 12, as follows:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:16 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.095 H19DEPT1 H10230 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 [Roll No. 695] O’Rourke Royce (CA) Thompson (PA) Mr. FASO. Mr. Speaker, on that I de- Olson Ruiz Thornberry mand the yeas and nays. YEAS—418 Palazzo Ruppersberger Tiberi Pallone Rush The yeas and nays were ordered. Abraham Delaney Johnson (OH) Tipton Palmer Russell Adams DeLauro Johnson, E. B. Titus The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Panetta Rutherford Aderholt DelBene Johnson, Sam Tonko Pascrell Ryan (OH) 5-minute vote. Aguilar Demings Jones Torres Paulsen Sa´ nchez The vote was taken by electronic de- Allen Denham Jordan Trott Payne Sanford Tsongas vice, and there were—yeas 227, nays Amash Dent Joyce (OH) Pearce Sarbanes Amodei DeSantis Kaptur Turner 180, answered ‘‘present’’ 1, not voting Pelosi Schakowsky Upton Arrington DeSaulnier Katko Perlmutter Schiff 23, as follows: Babin DesJarlais Keating Valadao Perry Schneider Vargas [Roll No. 696] Bacon Deutch Kelly (IL) Peters Schrader Banks (IN) Diaz-Balart Kelly (MS) Veasey Peterson Schweikert Vela YEAS—227 Barletta Dingell Kelly (PA) Pingree Scott (VA) Vela´ zquez Abraham Gallego Mullin Barr Doggett Khanna Pittenger Scott, Austin Visclosky Aderholt Gianforte Murphy (FL) Barraga´ n Donovan Kihuen Poe (TX) Scott, David Wagner Allen Gibbs Nadler Barton Doyle, Michael Kildee Poliquin Sensenbrenner Walberg Amodei Goodlatte Newhouse Bass F. Kilmer Polis Serrano Walden Arrington Gosar Noem Beatty Duffy Kind Posey Sessions Babin Gowdy Norman Bera Duncan (SC) King (IA) Price (NC) Sewell (AL) Walker Bacon Granger Nunes Bergman Duncan (TN) King (NY) Quigley Shea-Porter Walorski Banks (IN) Green, Al O’Rourke Beyer Dunn Kinzinger Raskin Sherman Walters, Mimi Barletta Griffith Olson Biggs Ellison Knight Ratcliffe Shimkus Walz Barr Grothman Pascrell Bilirakis Emmer Krishnamoorthi Reed Shuster Wasserman Beatty Guthrie Pelosi Bishop (GA) Engel Kuster (NH) Reichert Simpson Schultz Bergman Hanabusa Perlmutter Bishop (MI) Eshoo Kustoff (TN) Rice (NY) Sinema Waters, Maxine Bilirakis Handel Pingree Bishop (UT) Espaillat Labrador Rice (SC) Sires Watson Coleman Bishop (MI) Harper Polis Black Estes (KS) LaHood Richmond Slaughter Weber (TX) Bishop (UT) Harris Posey Blackburn Esty (CT) LaMalfa Roby Smith (MO) Webster (FL) Black Hartzler Quigley Blum Evans Lamborn Roe (TN) Smith (NE) Welch Blum Heck Rice (SC) Blumenauer Farenthold Lance Rogers (AL) Smith (NJ) Wenstrup Blumenauer Hensarling Roby Blunt Rochester Faso Langevin Rogers (KY) Smith (WA) Westerman Blunt Rochester Higgins (LA) Roe (TN) Bonamici Ferguson Larsen (WA) Rohrabacher Smucker Williams Brady (TX) Higgins (NY) Rogers (KY) Bost Fitzpatrick Larson (CT) Rokita Soto Wilson (FL) Brat Himes Rooney, Francis Boyle, Brendan Fleischmann Latta Rooney, Francis Speier Wilson (SC) Brooks (IN) Hollingsworth Rooney, Thomas F. Flores Lawrence Rooney, Thomas Stefanik Wittman Brown (MD) Huffman J. Brady (PA) Fortenberry Lawson (FL) J. Stewart Womack Buchanan Huizenga Ross Brady (TX) Foster Lee Ros-Lehtinen Stivers Woodall Budd Hultgren Rothfus Brat Foxx Levin Rosen Suozzi Yarmuth Bustos Hunter Roybal-Allard Brooks (IN) Frankel (FL) Lewis (GA) Roskam Swalwell (CA) Yoder Butterfield Hurd Royce (CA) Brown (MD) Frelinghuysen Lewis (MN) Ross Takano Yoho Calvert Issa Ruppersberger Brownley (CA) Fudge Lieu, Ted Rothfus Taylor Young (AK) Carter (TX) Jeffries Russell Buchanan Gabbard Lipinski Rouzer Tenney Young (IA) Cartwright Johnson (GA) Rutherford Buck Gallagher LoBiondo Roybal-Allard Thompson (CA) Zeldin Bucshon Gallego Loebsack Castro (TX) Johnson (LA) Sanford Budd Garamendi Lofgren NAYS—1 Chabot Johnson, E. B. Schneider Chu, Judy Johnson, Sam Schweikert Burgess Garrett Long Gaetz Bustos Gianforte Love Cicilline Kaptur Scott (VA) Butterfield Gibbs Lowenthal NOT VOTING—12 Clay Kelly (IL) Scott, David Byrne Gohmert Lowey Coffman Kelly (MS) Sessions Bridenstine Loudermilk Renacci Calvert Gomez Lucas Cole Kelly (PA) Shea-Porter Brooks (AL) Messer Scalise Capuano Gonzalez (TX) Luetkemeyer Collins (GA) Kildee Sherman Cummings Napolitano Smith (TX) Carbajal Goodlatte Lujan Grisham, Collins (NY) King (IA) Shimkus Kennedy Pocan Thompson (MS) Ca´ rdenas Gosar M. Comstock Krishnamoorthi Shuster Cook Kuster (NH) Smith (MO) Carson (IN) Gottheimer Luja´ n, Ben Ray ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER PRO TEMPORE Carter (GA) Gowdy Lynch Cooper Kustoff (TN) Smith (NE) Carter (TX) Granger MacArthur The SPEAKER pro tempore. There Costello (PA) Labrador Smith (NJ) Cartwright Graves (GA) Maloney, are 2 minutes remaining. Cramer LaMalfa Smith (WA) Castor (FL) Graves (LA) Carolyn B. Cuellar Lamborn Speier Castro (TX) Graves (MO) Maloney, Sean b 1656 Culberson Larsen (WA) Stefanik Chabot Green, Al Marchant Curtis Latta Stewart Cheney Green, Gene Marino So (two-thirds being in the affirma- Davidson Lawrence Suozzi Chu, Judy Griffith Marshall tive) the rules were suspended and the Davis (CA) Lewis (MN) Takano Cicilline Grijalva Massie bill was passed. Davis, Danny Lipinski Taylor Davis, Rodney Long Thornberry Clark (MA) Grothman Mast The result of the vote was announced Clarke (NY) Guthrie Matsui DeGette Love Tiberi Clay Gutie´rrez McCarthy as above recorded. DeLauro Lowey Titus Cleaver Hanabusa McCaul A motion to reconsider was laid on Demings Lucas Trott Clyburn Handel McClintock the table. Dent Luetkemeyer Tsongas Coffman Harper McCollum DeSaulnier Lujan Grisham, Wagner Cohen Harris McEachin PERSONAL EXPLANATION DesJarlais M. Walden Cole Hartzler McGovern Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Mr. Speaker, I was ab- Deutch Marchant Walker Collins (GA) Hastings McHenry Dingell Marino Walorski Collins (NY) Heck McKinley sent during rollcall votes No. 694 through 695 Doggett Marshall Walters, Mimi Comer Hensarling McMorris due to a death in my family. Had I been Donovan Massie Walz Comstock Herrera Beutler Rodgers present, I would have voted ‘‘Nay’’ on H.R. Duffy Matsui Wasserman Conaway Hice, Jody B. McNerney 3312, Systemic Risk Designation Improvement Duncan (SC) McCarthy Schultz Connolly Higgins (LA) McSally Duncan (TN) McClintock Waters, Maxine Cook Higgins (NY) Meadows Act of 2017, and ‘‘Yea’’ on S. 1536, Com- Dunn McCollum Weber (TX) Cooper Hill Meehan bating Human Trafficking in Commercial Vehi- Ellison McEachin Webster (FL) Correa Himes Meeks cles Act. Engel McHenry Welch Costa Holding Meng Eshoo McMorris Wenstrup Costello (PA) Hollingsworth Mitchell f Estes (KS) Rodgers Westerman Courtney Hoyer Moolenaar Evans McNerney Williams Cramer Hudson Mooney (WV) THE JOURNAL Ferguson Meadows Wilson (FL) Fleischmann Meeks Wilson (SC) Crawford Huffman Moore The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Crist Huizenga Moulton Fortenberry Meng Womack Crowley Hultgren Mullin finished business is the question on Foster Mitchell Yarmuth Cuellar Hunter Murphy (FL) agreeing to the Speaker’s approval of Frankel (FL) Moolenaar Yoho Culberson Hurd Nadler the Journal, which the Chair will put Frelinghuysen Mooney (WV) Young (AK) Curbelo (FL) Issa Neal Gabbard Moulton Young (IA) Curtis Jackson Lee Newhouse de novo. Davidson Jayapal Noem The question is on the Speaker’s ap- NAYS—180 Davis (CA) Jeffries Nolan proval of the Journal. Adams Bass Bonamici Davis, Danny Jenkins (KS) Norcross The question was taken; and the Aguilar Bera Bost Davis, Rodney Jenkins (WV) Norman Amash Biggs Boyle, Brendan DeFazio Johnson (GA) Nunes Speaker pro tempore announced that Barraga´ n Bishop (GA) F. DeGette Johnson (LA) O’Halleran the ayes appeared to have it. Barton Blackburn Brady (PA)

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.026 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10231 Brownley (CA) Hice, Jody B. Pearce established by Congress and President a huge increase, 67 percent, costing Buck Hill Perry Bucshon Holding Peters Johnson. him upwards of $9,900 per year in new Burgess Hoyer Peterson The National Park Foundation is the costs, bringing his total costs for Byrne Hudson Pittenger official charity of America’s national health insurance to nearly $25,000 per Capuano Jackson Lee Poe (TX) parks and the nonprofit partner to the year. Carbajal Jayapal Poliquin Ca´ rdenas Jenkins (KS) Price (NC) National Park Service. For 50 years, Unsurprisingly, Mr. Watts is no Carson (IN) Jenkins (WV) Raskin they have raised funds, private funds, longer able to afford his insurance, and Carter (GA) Johnson (OH) Ratcliffe to help protect more than 84 million many in Northern California and Castor (FL) Jones Reed Cheney Jordan Reichert acres of national parks through critical across the country currently find Clark (MA) Joyce (OH) Rice (NY) conservation and preservation efforts. themselves in the same position. Clarke (NY) Katko Richmond The National Park Foundation has Sadly, my office staff and I have Cleaver Keating Rogers (AL) helped safeguard our heritage and en- heard this story countless times. Many Clyburn Khanna Rohrabacher Cohen Kihuen Rokita gage that next generation of national in my district were pretty happy with Comer Kilmer Ros-Lehtinen park enthusiasts by connecting us to their insurance before ObamaCare, and Conaway Kind Rosen the parks right in our own backyard. now, under the individual mandate, Connolly King (NY) Roskam Although they haven’t been around as they are forced to pay for insurance Costa Kinzinger Rouzer Courtney Knight Ruiz long as the National Park Service, they can’t afford. Crawford LaHood Ryan (OH) they have played an important role in But with the repeal of the individual Crist Lance Sarbanes strengthening and enhancing our mandate, as in H.R. 1, which passed Crowley Langevin Schakowsky Curbelo (FL) Larson (CT) Schiff parks. today, individuals like Mr. Watts are DeFazio Lawson (FL) Schrader So, Mr. Speaker, I would just like to not punished for failing to purchase Delaney Lee Scott, Austin thank the National Park Foundation unaffordable insurance. Instead, we DelBene Levin Sensenbrenner for its work to help protect and pre- will seek to allow affordable choices Denham Lewis (GA) Serrano DeSantis LoBiondo Sewell (AL) serve the crown jewels of America, our for Americans to choose themselves. Diaz-Balart Loebsack Sinema national parks, monuments, and bat- f Doyle, Michael Lofgren Sires tlefields. Our country looks forward to F. Lowenthal Slaughter SHAME ON REPUBLICANS Emmer Luja´ n, Ben Ray Smucker another 50 years of your great work. Espaillat Lynch Soto f (Mr. DEFAZIO asked and was given Esty (CT) MacArthur Stivers permission to address the House for 1 Faso Maloney, Swalwell (CA) KEEPING OUR PROMISE minute.) Fitzpatrick Carolyn B. Tenney E Flores Maloney, Sean Thompson (CA) (Mr. ESPAILLAT asked and was Mr. D FAZIO. Mr. Speaker, it is a Foxx Mast Thompson (PA) given permission to address the House dark day; $3 trillion in revenue cuts, in Fudge McGovern Tipton for 1 minute and to revise and extend tax breaks; three quarters of that goes Gaetz McKinley Torres his remarks.) to corporations under the premise that Gallagher McSally Turner Garrett Meehan Upton Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, I they will use that money to employ Gomez Moore Valadao looked at the calendar today and saw people. The last time they got this Gonzalez (TX) Neal Vargas there was no Dream Act vote on the kind of a break, 93 percent of the Gottheimer Nolan Veasey Graves (GA) Norcross Vela´ zquez floor this week. As we approach tomor- money went to stock dividends, Graves (LA) O’Halleran Visclosky row, a potential CR, Republican and buybacks, and executive bonuses, and Graves (MO) Palazzo Walberg Democrats must support this bipar- it will be no different this time—squan- Green, Gene Pallone Watson Coleman tisan Dream Act. dering America’s wealth for the Grijalva Palmer Wittman Gutie´rrez Panetta Woodall These are hardworking men and wealthiest among us. Hastings Paulsen Yoder women, young people. They are doctors Eighty-three percent of the remain- Herrera Beutler Payne Zeldin and artists, scientists and police offi- der goes to people who earn over ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—1 cers, mentors and EMTs. These are $400,000 a year. They are going to trick- Tonko Americans through and through. le down on us, yet again. We made a promise that we must At the same time, there is no infra- NOT VOTING—23 keep. We need to protect the rights and structure package. The Trump admin- Beyer Kennedy Rush principles that our country was found- istration, the DOT says, we just don’t Bridenstine Lieu, Ted Sa´ nchez Brooks (AL) Loudermilk Scalise ed on and thrives upon. know where we can find the money. Correa McCaul Simpson We demand a vote for a clean Dream Well, imagine if they used a fraction Cummings Messer Smith (TX) Act today. We demand a vote for a of these tax giveaways for infrastruc- Farenthold Napolitano Thompson (MS) clean Dream Act tomorrow. ture—15,000 jobs per billion invested. Garamendi Pocan Vela Gohmert Renacci f We could have had $1.5 million with 3 percent of the money they just wasted MAKING HEALTH INSURANCE b 1704 on these tax cuts. AFFORDABLE Mr. POE of Texas changed his vote Shame on them. from ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ (Mr. LAMALFA asked and was given f So the Journal was approved. permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his re- BERKS COUNTY CAREER The result of the vote was announced PATHWAYS ALLIANCE as above recorded. marks.) Mr. LAMALFA. Mr. Speaker, I rise (Mr. SMUCKER asked and was given PERSONAL EXPLANATION today to share the story of one of my permission to address the House for 1 Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- constituents who has been severely im- minute.) ably detained. Had I been present, I would pacted by the rising costs under the Af- Mr. SMUCKER. Mr. Speaker, I rise have voted ‘‘Yea’’ on rollcall No. 694, ‘‘Yea’’ fordable Care Act. today to recognize some wonderful on rollcall No. 695, and ‘‘Yea’’ on rollcall No. Mr. Watts, from Chico, California, work being done for our students in 696. was recently notified by his insurer Berks County, Pennsylvania. The f that his health coverage will shut down Berks County Career Pathways Alli- at the end of the year. In its place, he ance is an initiative to create a coun- NATIONAL PARK FOUNDATION was offered another plan that ‘‘may tywide framework to engage K–12 stu- CELEBRATES 50 YEARS meet his needs’’ and that he will be dents in career awareness, work-based (Mr. PAULSEN asked and was given automatically enrolled. That is right. learning opportunities, and financial permission to address the House for 1 They just sign him up for one. literacy. minute and to revise and extend his re- The problem is, this plan, which cov- Mr. Speaker, I have spoken in this marks.) ers an adult and two teens, sees his Chamber before about our work to pre- Mr. PAULSEN. Mr. Speaker, 50 years monthly premium skyrocket to $2,067 pare students for our 21st century ago, the National Park Foundation was per month, an increase of $831. That is economy, but today I get to stand up

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE7.028 H19DEPT1 H10232 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 here and share the work that is being b 1715 Ms. TENNEY. Mr. Speaker, the pas- done by the people on the ground fight- IN MEMORY OF AGNES DOSTER sage of today’s bill is the first step to ing every day to make a difference in providing desperately needed once-in-a- the lives of the students in their com- (Mr. CARTER of Georgia asked and generation relief from the failed status munities. was given permission to address the quo, especially in New York State. The Alliance brings together edu- House for 1 minute and to revise and Under this bill, the typical American cators, school administrators, private extend his remarks.) family making $73,000 a year will see a business, and the local Chamber of Mr. CARTER of Georgia. Mr. Speak- tax cut of $2,059, and low- and middle- Commerce, a cohesive group of diverse er, I rise today to remember the life of income New Yorkers can finally see an organizations, to make real progress Mrs. Agnes Doster, who passed away on immediate raise in their January and toward improving the workforce pipe- Monday, December 4, at the age of 79. February paychecks. line in Berks County. Their goal is to Originally from Forsyth, Georgia, As a single working mom and a per- have 18 school districts in Berks Coun- Mrs. Doster worked for 40 years in the son who cared for my elderly and aging ty adopt their framework and eventu- Secretary of the Senate’s office in the parents, I and my New York colleagues ally make it a statewide initiative. Georgia State Capitol. She served in a fought an uphill battle to include pro- This initiative is being led by Dr. Jill number of different capacities there visions facing elimination that are Hackman, the executive director of the with dedication since 1968, always mak- vital to seniors, single parents, strug- Berks County Intermediate Unit, and ing the Georgia State Capitol run more gling families, and overburdened job the Greater Reading Chamber Alliance. efficiently, while promoting good gov- creators, many of whom have left New Thanks to their tireless efforts, and ernment. York State in vast numbers. Despite the fact that these provisions the efforts of many others involved, Outside of her time working as a civil faced the very real threat of elimi- students will be exposed to new learn- servant, Mrs. Doster was very active in nation, our efforts were successful in ing opportunities that can open the the First Baptist Church of Snellville securing the historic tax credit for a door to family sustaining careers. for over 45 years. There, she sang in the State like New York, with many of our I am very proud of the work being choir, played hand bells, directed wed- Nation’s most historic and most impor- done in my district, and I look forward dings, and taught the 2-year-old Sun- tant national landmarks, expanding to seeing their initiative change the day school class. the SALT deduction—the State and lives of some of the 70,000 K–12 students She is survived by family all over the local tax deduction—childcare and de- in Berks County. State of Georgia, including her husband, sister, children, grandchildren, pendent care credits, and continuing the deductibility of medical expenses, f and 30 nieces and nephews. Mrs. Doster’s bright spirit will surely to assist our most vulnerable seniors in be missed by everyone around the defraying high medical costs. THE TAX CUT IS A DEBACLE Georgia State Capitol. In New York’s 22nd District, 99 percent of itemizers deduct less than (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was f given permission to address the House $10,000 in property tax, the cap which for 1 minute.) WHAT A DISASTER represents the new deduction. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I (Mr. PAYNE asked and was given Due to Albany’s mismanagement, all hold in my hand the vote tally for the permission to address the House for 1 the counties I represent are in the top ‘‘Tax No Jobs’’ bill. It is interesting, minute and to revise and extend his re- 36 highest property tax rates compared when you are asked about the tax bill, marks.) with home value nationwide. This bill they put the word ‘‘jobs.’’ Mr. PAYNE. Mr. Speaker, what a dis- will provide relief on the Federal level, This was a very close vote, and 12 Re- aster. The American people wanted a while, finally, finally, incentivizing Al- publicans understood this was the Tax Code that works for them. Instead, bany to respect taxpayers. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. worst vote, worst bill in the history of my esteemed colleagues just passed a JOHNSON of Louisiana). The gentle- the United States; and the reason is, of tax plan that only works for crony cap- course, because tens of millions of mid- woman is no longer recognized. italists and oligarchs. Members are reminded to heed the dle class households and those who The GOP tax plan is scamming hard- gavel. need a tax break will not get it. $1.7 working American families in order to trillion in debt. line the pockets of millionaire real es- f It eliminates tax benefits that di- tate developers and people who paint THERE IS NO DOUBT THE AMER- rectly impact the middle class, it re- their toilet fixtures in their private ICAN PEOPLE NEED TAX RE- sults in 13 million fewer Americans jets gold. FORM with health insurance, it adds over $2 Mr. Speaker, hardworking American (Ms. GABBARD asked and was given trillion in deficit spending, and it trig- taxpayers want jobs, investments in permission to address the House for 1 gers PAYGO’s automatic spending cuts our highways and railroads, fully fund- minute.) to mandatory programs. ed children’s healthcare, state-of-the- Ms. GABBARD. Mr. Speaker, there is So let me tell you, my voice is a lit- art schools, and well-paid teachers. no doubt that the American people tle rough, but my heart is strong. So- Oligarchs who own gilded sky- need and want real tax reform, but cial Security to the American people, scrapers, gold-leafed golf courses, and rather than passing a strong, inclusive it is going to be cut. Medicare, it is real estate passthroughs want to drown bipartisan bill focused on helping hard- going to be cut. The Medicaid, for in the excesses of wealth. working middle class families, today those in nursing homes like my friend The American people wrote their Republicans passed a bill filled with who I visited over the weekend, will be Representatives. They called us. They massive corporate giveaways and loop- cut. marched in the Halls of the Capitol for holes for the ultrawealthy. And you know what? There will be no a democratic Tax Code. Instead, they For example, the top 1 percent in our answer in jobs of corporations who got got a scam that takes away money country will receive over 82 percent of low tax rates, lower than you. from schools, police officers, fire de- the entire tax benefit in the bill they This is a debacle so bad that it has to partments, and families. But I guess passed today. come back and we have to vote again money talks. As long as Congress continues to pass for it. f legislation for partisan political rea- My voice is a little rough, but I am sons that seriously serve special cor- going out there to tell the American THE PASSAGE OF H.R. 1 IS THE porate interests instead of the families people that this is the worst calamity FIRST STEP that are struggling just to get by every since we collapsed under the past Re- (Ms. TENNEY asked and was given day, where lobbyists have more input publican administration. Vote ‘‘no’’ permission to address the House for 1 in the writing of this legislation than every time you see this bill because it minute and to revise and extend her re- many Members of Congress, the Amer- is ‘‘no’’ for the American people. marks.) ican people lose.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.103 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10233 Mr. Speaker, I oppose this legislation are still so many questions, like: Why only did Lillie dedicate her time in the today. It is a disappointment and a was the train going 50 miles over the health community, but she also volun- huge lost opportunity to actually help speed limit as it rounded the curve? teers all around the city of Fort Worth. so many struggling families all across Why was the train not using positive Lillie often mentors and helps others the country. train control technology to slow the in the area of health, education, youth, f train down? How, Mr. Speaker, can we senior citizen services, businesses, and be sure that this never happens again? so many areas in our city that are un- WE NEED TO RESTART PUERTO Mr. Speaker, I will do everything I derserved. RICO’S ECONOMY can to ensure that the investigation For her dedicated service to the com- (Miss GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N of Puerto and our affected families have the re- munity, she has been awarded so many Rico asked and was given permission to sources and the support necessary to awards, including her induction into address the House for 1 minute and to get the facts in the coming days and the Texas Women’s Hall of Fame in revise and extend her remarks.) months. 2014. ´ ´ Miss GONZALEZ-COLON of Puerto f Mr. Speaker, I wish Lillie all the best Rico. Mr. Speaker, Puerto Rico’s econ- as she moves on into her relaxing re- HONORING RILETTA CREAM omy is the most vital aspect in bring- tirement, but I know that she probably ing back some sense of normalcy to the (Mr. NORCROSS asked and was given won’t be that relaxed and that she is lives of 3.4 million American citizens permission to address the House for 1 going to be very active in the commu- on the island after the devastating im- minute.) nity. I wish her the best in the future. pact of both Hurricanes Irma and Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I rise f Maria. today to honor a very special woman, Puerto Rico’s economy had already Mrs. Riletta Cream, from Camden THE REPUBLICAN TAX SCAM been in a decline prior to these unprec- County, but was known not only from (Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia asked and edented natural disasters, due mostly the city she was born in, but the entire was given permission to address the to the island’s outdated and discrimi- State of New Jersey. She passed away, House for 1 minute and to revise and natory territorial status. unfortunately, yesterday. extend his remarks.) Tax reform presented this Congress Mrs. Cream was a kind, gentle, and Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speak- with the historic opportunity to, even loving woman, but had special char- er, what do Iran, Ebenezer Scrooge, and if only partially, fix these longstanding acter, strength, and conviction. the Republican tax scam have in com- inequities by granting Puerto Rico She was known as an institution for mon? equal treatment to that of the 50 education and public service. She was a Well, they are all ruthless, cutthroat, States. friend, a mentor, an educator, and a coldblooded, heartless, and stingy. While we are grateful for the exten- dear, dear friend to so many of those That is why I voted ‘‘no’’ on the Re- sion of federally qualified opportunity children who went to her school. publican tax scam, and if I could have zones in this bill to the island, I believe She was a Camden city native, and added an H to the no, I would have. that there is broad recognition on both was a principal of Camden City High This legislation gives 83 percent of sides of the aisle that more needs to be School for over a decade. She served as the tax cuts to the wealthiest 1 per- done in the future. a role model for students, teachers, and cent, while raising taxes on 86 million Congress must live up to its responsi- administrators. After retiring, she middle-income families. bility and act decisively to end years of didn’t give up. She then ran as a The numbers prove that this is a tax improvisation by implementing sus- freeholder, and was elected time after cut for the ultrawealthy and not for tainable pro-growth economic policies time, continuing to serve the commu- the middle class, and anyone who tries that are based upon the bedrock prin- nity. to deceive you into thinking otherwise, ciples of citizen equality and political She led projects at the time called shame on them. empower, and my constituents deserve Tech 2000 to make sure there was a Adding insult to injury, this tax cut no less. computer in every child’s classroom adds $1.5 trillion to the national debt, f and at their desk. She fought for li- and Republicans will soon use the debt braries when funding was short. She to justify their ultimate plan, which is AMTRAK CASCADES 501 knew the value of education, whether to cut Medicare, Medicaid, and Social (Ms. JAYAPAL asked and was given it was going to college or to a trade Security. permission to address the House for 1 school. Today’s vote proves that Republicans minute and to revise and extend her re- Mr. Speaker, I hope you will join me care more about the wealthy and big marks.) in mourning the loss of this shining multinational corporations than they Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise light in my hometown. Mrs. Cream ac- do for ordinary people. today with a heavy heart. Yesterday, complished so much and gave so many Merry Christmas to the wealthy, who my home State and my home district years of service. May she rest in peace. already have plenty, and to their spe- suffered a great tragedy. Amtrak Cas- f cial interest lobbyists. And to the rest cades 501, traveling from Seattle to of America struggling to make ends IN HONOR OF LILLIE BIGGINS Portland, Oregon, carrying 80 pas- meet, bah humbug. sengers and seven crewmembers, de- (Mr. VEASEY asked and was given f railed near Olympia, Washington. permission to address the House for 1 Early reports are that at least three minute.) THE CORKER KICKBACK passengers have died and nearly 100 Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise (Ms. KAPTUR asked and was given people needed hospital care. My heart today to honor my neighbor in east permission to address the House for 1 and prayers go out to all those families Fort Worth and my friend, Lillie minute.) as they deal with this tragedy. Biggins, who will soon be retiring from Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, as Re- Our office stands ready to help any the Texas Health Harris Methodist publicans rammed through their tax constituents in any way that we can. Hospital after 45 years of service. gravy train for billionaires, we learned For up-to-date information, friends and Lillie joined the Texas Health Fort of another carve-out to megainvestors family on Amtrak Cascades 501 can Worth family back in 1997, serving as in real estate. also call 1–800–523–9101. vice president of operations. Her role This carve-out allows real estate I also want to thank our first re- was critical in overseeing major de- businesses to take advantage of a new sponders for their skill and their cour- partments, such as emergency services, tax break, which was parachuted into age. This could have been far worse trauma services, and restorative serv- the Senate bill to swing Republican without them. ices. votes, like Senator BOB CORKER. But as Amtrak, the National Trans- During her tenure, she helped cul- Drain the swamp? portation Safety Board, and State and tivate a vision of success for the Texas The Republicans are laughing all the local officials help on the scene, there Health Fort Worth community. Not way to the bank.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.104 H19DEPT1 H10234 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 A tax expert at Boston College said: young people, to have instate tuition on their head, because this House This is a big windfall for real estate de- for our college students coming here didn’t follow the edict, didn’t follow velopers like Donald Trump. from the island. Our hospitals are the value, but did exactly the opposite: So let me ask: Where’s the windfall doing their best to meet the challenge, gave away, to the top 1 percent, even for the middle class? Where is the guar- and many are getting jobs, although greater wealth. antee that those investors who make not as high paying as we would like. How could that be? Why would they out big time are going to invest their We also are putting bills forward to do that? Why would they do that? money here in the United States of speed up Medicaid qualification and ex- Well, I don’t know why they would do America and stop shipping our jobs pand Section 8 housing. But, most it, but they surely did it. And in addi- overseas? Where is the guarantee for critically, Florida faces a housing cri- tion to that, not just the wealthy 1 per- better wages? sis of epic proportions. cent, the wealthy 10 percent, why don’t We have seen this movie before. On January 15, the FEMA hotel you add American corporations to that Cut taxes for the rich and the econ- vouchers expire. This must be extended who are awash in cash? $2.5 trillion in omy grows? for another 6 months. In addition, we the bank accounts of American cor- Well, that didn’t happen under the are leading a bipartisan effort in Flor- porations, and they don’t know how to Bush tax cuts. ida to directly seek approval of FEMA spend it to create jobs in the United President John Kennedy said: ‘‘If a direct lease vouchers so that people States. free society cannot help the many who can have a place to stay. Instead, the Republicans, today, de- are poor, it cannot save the few who I am appointing a bipartisan Federal cided they needed $1.43 billion addi- are rich.’’ task force on Puerto Rican arrivals in tional cash as a result of the tax cut Mr. Speaker, this Republican tax central Florida to help in this very that no Democrats, not a one, but scam locks in 83 percent of the breaks good work. every Republican voted for, $1.43 billion—the number is from the Joint in favor of the richest among us, but a f day of reckoning is coming November Committee on Taxation—of new after- 2018. PASSAGE OF THE TAX CUT AND tax revenue to American corporations. WHAT IT MEANS And what do you suppose they are f The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under going to do with that? Create jobs in b 1730 the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- the United States? Expand their manu- RUSSIA AND THE uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Cali- facturing? No. Or higher wages for ADMINISTRATION fornia (Mr. GARAMENDI) is recognized their workers? No. for 60 minutes as the designee of the I will tell you what they intend to do (Mr. PERLMUTTER asked and was with it. This is it. The corporate tax given permission to address the House minority leader. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I giveaway will give Wells Fargo an 18 for 1 minute.) percent earnings increase. thank the Chair for this time to talk Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, re- How do they intend to spend it? Hint: about something that is rather impor- cently there has been a real flurry by Not on jobs. the Republicans here in Congress to tant. Something we did today was to In his own words, Tim Sloan, CEO of disparage and call names to the FBI pass a horrendous tax cut that doesn’t Wells Fargo, December 2017—I think and to the Justice Department, but it meet this fundamental goal. that is this month—said: ‘‘Is it our goal is right after Michael Flynn pled Really, whenever we legislate here, to increase return to shareholders and guilty, right after George we really ought to keep in mind our do we have an excess amount of cap- Papadopoulos pled guilty in the inves- values: What is the purpose? What are ital? The answer . . . is yes. So our ex- tigation into Russia and potential col- we trying to accomplish? What is the pectation should be that we will con- lusion with the administration. goal? What is the human value that we tinue to increase our dividend and our Now my question is: What are you are trying to put in place? share buybacks next year and the year afraid of? Why are you getting in such I often use this because it is here in after that and the year after that.’’ a big rush to complain about these Washington at the FDR Memorial. It is All right, Mr. Sloan. You can thank folks now? What are you hiding? What on the marble there: ‘‘The test of our the Republicans, because when you buy is it that is bothering you? Let the de- progress is not whether we add more to back your shares, when you increase tectives do their work to figure out the abundance of those who have your dividends, guess what. The stock what happened between Russia and this much.’’ price goes up, and we know that your administration. Let me read that again, Franklin compensation is based on stock price. I mean, it is like we have been asking Delano Roosevelt: ‘‘The test of our Are you going to use that extra money for the President’s tax returns for ages. progress is not whether we add more to for loans to small businesses? to farm- What is he hiding? We won’t even know the abundance of those who have much; ers? No, you are not. You are not going how much money he gets to save under it is whether we provide enough for to make more loans. this terrible tax bill that was passed those who have too little.’’ This is replicated across the Amer- today by the Republican Congress. I want to use this as my compass, my ican corporate culture. This is not So I just want to know: Why are you guiding light on where we need to go. unique. This new after-tax bonus that so worried? What are you afraid of? So this afternoon, this House of Rep- the Republicans are giving to Amer- What are you hiding? resentatives, by a vote of, I think, just ican corporations is going to be used f over 200 voted to enact a tax law that for the benefit of the wealthy. So you goes in exactly the opposite direction can add, if you will, to the tax cuts FEMA HOTEL VOUCHERS MUST BE of what FDR would say is our value, that are coming as a result of the re- EXTENDED our goal. duction in the top income tax bracket (Mr. SOTO asked and was given per- Here it is. The Speaker of the House for individuals from 39.6 percent to 37 mission to address the House for 1 came here to bring down the gavel to percent, you can add to it, but, by the minute.) announce the vote that he was so proud way, their investment portfolio is Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, over 250,000 to have. going to go up also. of my fellow Puerto Ricans have ar- Eighty percent of the individual tax This tax program is an abomination, rived in Florida since Hurricane Maria. cuts don’t go to the poor, don’t go to and it is going to hurt every American The tax bill on top of that absolutely is the middle class. They go to the top 1 over time. going to decimate the manufacturing percent. I am joined here tonight by my col- sector there, which is going to only How does that fit with what Franklin leagues who are probably as riled up hasten further of my brothers and sis- Delano Roosevelt said to the American about this as I am. I am not sure which ters to my home State, the great State Nation during the height of the Great one of them came in first. of Florida. Depression? I yield to the gentleman from the We have done our best as a host No. You may as well take Franklin State of Oregon, PETER DEFAZIO, my State to ease school enrollment for our Delano Roosevelt’s words, turn them colleague.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.106 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10235 Mr. DEFAZIO. Mr. Speaker, I thank tions a big tax cut under Bush when already struggling. We need a bipar- the gentleman for explaining in some they repatriated almost $1 trillion, 93 tisan solution to tax reform, not a spe- detail what the impacts of this legisla- percent of the money was spent on cial interest scam that benefits the tion are and who is going to benefit. stock buybacks, dividends, and execu- wealthiest. The gentleman is a member of the tive bonuses. I don’t know what they Mr. Speaker, Americans should have Transportation and Infrastructure did with the other 7 percent because no doubt this tax scam will hurt them Committee, on which I am the ranking those same corporations actually re- and the economy. Forget about invest- member. duced employment. ing in infrastructure. Forget about in- I just want to say, we have been wait- So what a false promise this is. A vesting in education. Forget about in- ing for the trillion-dollar Trump infra- very, very sad day. I thank the gen- vesting in research. You better start structure plan for a year now, and what tleman for bringing this to the atten- worrying about Medicare and Social we are hearing is, well, they just can’t tion of the American people. Security. This tax scam will make afford it. We can’t afford to rebuild Mr. GARAMENDI. I thank the rank- America a Third World nation. America’s infrastructure. ing member of the Transportation and Mr. Speaker, this tax scam is a dis- So let’s compare the impact of a few Infrastructure Committee for making a grace. of these tax cuts to what we could have very clear case on how we might better Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I done or could do with that money. spend our money. yield to the gentleman from Colorado Every tax cut means the government I yield to the gentleman from the (Mr. PERLMUTTER), my friend. forgoes revenue. great State of California (Mr. MCNER- Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, I So let’s just take the estate tax. Dou- NEY), my colleague and neighbor. thank my friend, Mr. GARAMENDI, for bling the exemption from an $11 mil- allowing me the opportunity to speak b 1745 lion to $22 million estate, that costs about this. $100 billion. If we invested that $100 bil- Mr. MCNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, I You have FDR on the poster. He also lion in infrastructure, we would create thank my neighbor and friend, Mr. said December 7 was a day that would 1.5 million working family wage jobs GARAMENDI, for holding this Special live in infamy. This is a day that will for Americans—1.5 million jobs. Now, I Order tonight and allowing us to talk live in infamy because of the tax bill suppose those people with the cuts in about what this tax bill means. that was passed today. the estate tax, they are going to trick- Mr. Speaker, today is a sad day in I don’t like to speak in this hyper- le something on working people, prob- America, as the House passed an un- bolic way, but what was passed by the ably not jobs, though. holy tax scam of a tax bill. This bill Republican House, and soon by the Re- And let’s look at one of my favorites, was rushed through Congress with no publican Senate, is something none of the passthrough. We are going to help hearings, no Democratic votes, and no us has ever seen before. small business. Well, no, we are not Democratic amendments. This Repub- Let’s just do some easy math so that really going to help small business. If lican tax scam is being deceptively sold people understand how unbelievable you work in your small business, you as a benefit for the middle class, but the numbers are on this. are not going to get a tax break. If you the real winners will be the big cor- Let’s take Speaker RYAN’s numbers. are a passive investor in a so-called porations and those on the cover of He said an average family of four mak- small business or passthrough entity, Forbes 400 richest Americans. ing some $60,000 are going to save you get a big tax break. The Republican tax scam will in- about $1,183. Okay. Of the four, that is Now, the President says he won’t crease the national debt by almost $2 about $275 per person. That is nice. I benefit. He owns 500 passthrough busi- trillion, burdening our children or giv- like it. nesses according to his financial disclo- ing a Christmas bonus to the wealthi- What he doesn’t tell you, and what sure. Each one of those will give him a est Americans. the Republicans refuse to talk about, is massive tax break. The Republican tax scam perma- how much money is put on the credit Well, that little beauty costs $600 bil- nently lowers the corporate tax rate card of the Nation for the current gen- lion. For $600 billion, if we invested it while the child tax credit increase ex- eration and future generations to have in infrastructure, we could create 9 pires in 2025. In other words, big cor- to pay. At best, it is $1.5 trillion. million jobs. These passive investors in porations get a permanent tax cut That is a number that none of us can oil and gas and real estate, how many while the middle class receives a tem- really understand how big it is. But jobs are they going to create? Again, porary tax cut. let’s say there are 300 million Ameri- they might hire another manservant or This tax scam places a cap on State cans. Divide 300 million into $1.5 tril- someone to cut the lawn or someone to and local taxes for individuals, tar- lion and that is $5,000. Let’s do the wax the yacht, but it’s not going to be geting punishment for Democratic math. You get to save $270, but you put 9 million jobs, and it isn’t going to be States. This is a new low for our de- $5,000 on the credit card. at family wages—Davis-Bacon wages, I mocracy. The Republican tax scam also Wait a second. That doesn’t sound might say, really good wages. repeals the Affordable Care Act’s indi- quite right. Where does that $4,730 go? Let’s just look at one item, the top vidual mandate. This will cause 13 mil- Well, it goes straight up to the rate. That only goes to people who earn lion Americans to lose their health in- wealthiest among us. over $500,000 a year. They are going to surance. Taking healthcare away from So all of us, as a country, as a nation, get a substantial break. About $130 bil- those who elected us is shameful. and as a people, have the obligation to lion it is going to cost us to give a tax Earlier today, we heard from Ady pay this back. break to people who earn over $500,000 Barkan, who was recently diagnosed And who gets it? a year, more of the trickle class, and with ALS. Many will recognize Ady Just a very slim few. We get $270, but that would have created 2 million fam- from the video of him confronting Sen- we have $5,000 on a credit card. ily wage jobs rebuilding America’s in- ator FLAKE in an airplane. Mr. DEFAZIO talked about some of frastructure, and not just benefiting Ady spoke passionately this morning the opportunity costs that are lost the people who do the work. about the dangers of this tax scam. As from this $1.5 trillion. If the $1.5 tril- And it isn’t just construction. It is he was finishing, he talked about the lion were out there to benefit all of us design. It is engineering. It is small opportunity we have to come back and and just put in infrastructure, we business. And just think of all the ben- do a real tax reform, in 2018, and do so would basically fix every road, every efits in terms of the movement of in a bipartisan way. His hope for what water work, every electric grid issue goods and people and how it makes a good tax bill should look like struck that we have; we would put broadband America more competitive. me. He said that we should come back across the country, and all of us would What a sad day it is when, as you and negotiate a tax bill that elevates benefit and make this country com- pointed out very well, we are giving human dignity, instead of promoting petitive for the next 50 years. this money—three-quarters of it goes human misery. Instead, we say: We don’t need that to corporate tax breaks, three-quar- This Republican tax scam will hurt money. Let’s just give it back to the ters. The last time we gave corpora- millions of Americans, many who are wealthiest people in America.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.108 H19DEPT1 H10236 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 Wrong. Terrible. I would like to begin by thanking Mr. lion middle class families in this coun- I serve on the Science Committee. GARAMENDI for his relentless and pas- try. We did some numbers in the Science sionate voice on behalf of working peo- They call it a tax cut. For those 86 Committee. ple, not only of California, but this middle class families, it is a tax in- The entire budget for solar energy for country. He comes to the floor regu- crease. In fact, 83 percent of the tax our laboratories, in any given year, is larly and organizes these Special Order cuts go to the top 1 percent, the very about $207 million. We were having this hours to help bring attention to these richest people in this country and the testimony and the Republicans were very important issues, and I really biggest corporations. It also makes picking on the managers of the solar thank him for the opportunity to be more generous tax provisions that budget line and said: You have really part of it. incentivize companies to ship Amer- got to shrink this. This is costing too I want to begin where he left off, and ican jobs oversees. much money. that is the process. This is not a job creator. The idea Well, do you know how many times We just learned today that the tax that if we just let the people at the 207 million goes into $1.5 trillion? Do scam that the Republicans jammed very top hold on to all their money, it you know how many years worth of through the House has to come back is going to trickle down to the rest of budgets that is? for another vote because they made us, is a job killer. We know that It is 7,480 years worth of solar energy some mistakes and didn’t comply with doesn’t work. They tried during the budgets. some Senate rules. Bush administration. We had the worst I have really been working on getting This is what happens when you don’t job loss in a generation. our astronauts to Mars. We have been have hearings, you don’t have thought- It doesn’t work because we all know advised that that is going to cost about ful deliberation, you don’t listen to the way you actually create jobs is you $200 billion over the course of the next witnesses who can identify problems grow the middle class. You make sure 16 years, to 2033, which is when the or- with the bill, and instead you just folks have good-paying jobs, have more bits of Mars and the Earth come close bring it to the floor. money in their pockets to buy the together and saves us a lot of space Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, did I goods and services. time, travel time, and is safer for our Go to any small business in my State hear Mr. CICILLINE correctly that the astronauts. of Rhode Island, and I am sure it is the action taken here on the floor is not We could send our astronauts to Mars same in the State of California, and dispositive, but has to be modified in and back and start from scratch eight ask a small-business owner: What do the Senate and brought back because times for this tax cut that is going to you need to add a job? What do you they screwed up? be received by the rich. need to increase the number of people Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman It is not right. It is not American. It who work in your business? is the opposite of what FDR said when from Rhode Island. They will say one thing: I need cus- Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, yes. he said: ‘‘The test of our progress is not tomers. I need people to buy what I Exactly. The bill will come back. So, whether we add more to the abundance make and sell. of those who have much; it is whether hopefully, the American people will That is why strengthening the mid- we provide enough for those who have have another opportunity to make cer- dle class, raising the income of people too little.’’ tain their voices are heard. in this country, is the way you grow There has been some talk about how But this is not the way to do a com- the economy. This is just the opposite. real estate developers and others are plicated piece of legislation. The last I was sickened when that bill passed really going to benefit by this tax cut time the Congress did tax reform, there the floor a few moments ago and I saw that nobody has seen until the last day were 400 witnesses, experts who came our Republican colleagues cheering and or two. This is a giant piece of legisla- in, hearings month after month, be- hooting and hollering like they were at tion. cause it is complicated. You want to a ball game. They put points on the One of the things the Democrats have make sure it works right. You are talk- board. They didn’t put points on the asked for for a year now is that we ing about the American economy. board for the American people. want to see the President’s tax returns. None of that happened here. It was We are going to keep fighting for a He has refused to disclose his tax re- written in the dark of the night. Some tax reform bill that actually provides turns. So we know he was a real estate of our Republican colleagues didn’t see cuts to middle class families that will developer, we know he is a very the text. This is not a way to do legis- help to promote economic growth and wealthy guy, and we know he is going lation, and it is one of the reasons that create good-paying jobs. to benefit in a large way—or, he might excluding the Democrats from contrib- We think the Tax Code is broken. We say in a huge way—by this tax cut. But uting to this process was a terrible, have always been willing to work to- we don’t know how much it is going to terrible mistake. gether in a bipartisan way to make the be because he will never disclose his What is the result? Tax Code simpler, more competitive, tax returns. We end up with a bill that does ex- and work for the American people. The ink is just barely dry as to how actly the opposite of what it says it That is not what the Republicans did. this is all going to work out. What has will do. This is a giveaway to their donors. transpired today is really a shame. I This is a job-killing bill. There is no Some of our colleagues said it out loud: really am disappointed in my Repub- more urgent priority that all of us If we don’t pass a tax cut, our donors lican colleagues in how this matter has have to create good-paying jobs, family told us to not call anymore. They actu- been rushed through. supporting jobs. We Democrats have ally said that out loud. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, the launched a very bold economic agenda That is not how you write legisla- gentleman’s final sentence was ‘‘rushed that focuses on better jobs, better tion. Let’s not forget who sent us here through.’’ There has not been one sub- wages for a better future. and whom we should be working for. stantive hearing in either House. There Millions of Americans will go to bed Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman has been a markup hearing, but that is tonight and lie awake worried about for giving me an opportunity to con- not a substantive hearing. whether or not they have enough tribute to the conversation tonight. No Democratic amendments have money to pay their bills, whether they This is a bill which will hurt Rhode Is- been accepted. Not one economist has can put aside some savings for their re- land, hurt this country, and hurt our been called to testify—not one ac- tirement, whether they can send their economy. countant, not one tax lawyer. No hear- kids to school. Finally, it also will result in the gut- ings whatsoever. All of those anxieties come from the ting of Medicare and Medicaid. Every- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman fact they are not making enough one forgets this creates a $1.5 trillion from Rhode Island (Mr. CICILLINE) to money to make ends meet. They debt which, by our rules, is going to re- share with us his perspective. haven’t seen an increase in their insult in automatic cuts to Medicare, Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, I thank come in a very long time. What this Medicaid, student loan programs, block the gentleman from California for tax bill does is make those problems grants, vocational rehabilitation pro- yielding. worse. This will raise taxes on 86 mil- grams, and on and on and on.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.109 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10237 b 1800 pears to be on its way to the Presi- talked about tax reform that simplifies They give away $1.5 trillion that we dent’s desk. the Tax Code, that benefits hard- don’t have. They borrow the money to Speaking of the President and how working families. give away the tax cuts, and then next much he will benefit from that, I am Well, what we have seen today and year they come back and say: Oh, we sure my colleagues have heard the say- what we have seen in recent days as have no money. We have to cut Medi- ing that he campaigned like a populist this bill came to the floor is just a care and cut Medicaid and cut Social and is governing like a plutocrat. total contradiction of all that they Security and cut Pell grants and not Wouldn’t you say this bill is a pretty have professed to stand for all these rebuild the infrastructure of our coun- good exhibit A with respect to that? years. These words are nothing but lip try. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, re- service and false promises. They have Our Republican colleagues have said claiming my time, oh, absolutely. And sloppily drafted this bill behind closed this is part one. Part two will be these I would say, also, that maybe it is an doors. They plan to raise taxes on 86 cuts. The American people know this, oligarch, and maybe we are creating million middle class families, and they which is why this bill is overwhelm- one of those Russian oligarch societies plan to add $1.5 trillion to the national ingly unpopular with the American here in which a few who are well con- debt. Despite claims that this bill will ben- people. They see what the Republicans nected to this President are going to do efit the middle class, 83 percent of the are up to. They are insulting the Amer- very, very well. tax cuts go to the wealthiest 1 percent ican people. They think they haven’t We are not talking about the Russia thing here today, but it gives me some of Americans. figured this out. They are going to dan- And they have also taken aim at gle a couple of dollars in front of them pause to think: Why are they working so hard to end the Mueller investiga- healthcare, as if the tax travesties but then whack them with huge cuts weren’t enough. By eliminating the so- next year. tion? But that is another subject for another day. called individual mandate, the GOP tax The American people are smarter scam will explode premiums, and it than this. The Republicans are going to Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. It is, indeed. But the Russian role model will add 13 million Americans to the be held accountable. We have to fight ranks of the uninsured. with every fiber in our body to stop seems alive and well as we look at the development of the American economy The bill is a windfall for large cor- this because it is really going to hurt porations that want to ship American and where we may be going. people. jobs overseas. They want to cut staff. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I Mr. Speaker, I am sure my colleague will agree that our Republican friends They drive down wages and salaries. thank Mr. CICILLINE for bringing to our This bill will facilitate that. know this is a very, very unpopular attention some key elements here: The Plain and simple, the Republican tax piece of legislation. It is striking, isn’t deficit issue, which we will discuss a scam asks hardworking families and little longer today. Also, the issue of it? They decided that they were going future generations of Americans to really growing American jobs: growing to go into the hole $1.5 trillion, forget foot the bill for huge tax cuts for cor- wages, growing the future, and cre- about revenue neutrality. They are porations and for the wealthiest. ating a better future for American going to go into the hole and borrow And we haven’t seen the end of it yet. workers. I know that has been the gen- $1.5 trillion. Even with that, they have Do you know what is coming next? You tleman’s passion and his work. We will not been able to write a bill that most can bet that, once this bill passes, Re- go through all of those things in the of the American people feel a benefit publicans are going to pivot. They are day ahead. from. It is extraordinary. going to pivot in a heartbeat to pose as This bill may very well become law, Well, the fact is that most of the the guardians of fiscal rectitude. but I would surely like to see exactly American people won’t benefit from Having abandoned any pretense of how the President is going to do with this bill. I think they are on to that. revenue neutrality in this bill and hav- this. I suspect this passthrough busi- The latest polling shows that Ameri- ing added $1.5 trillion to the national ness in which he has 500 passthrough cans oppose this bill by a margin of 2 debt and having triggered a $25 billion corporations—he is not an active inves- to 1. That is, of course, before they Medicare sequester cut, they are, all of tor. He will make out very, very well, have even felt the effects of this bill. a sudden, going to sound the alarm: and the working men and women of the I think Republicans know that this Poor us. We are broke. Our country is middle class are going to lose. opposition is only going to get stronger broke. We have got to squeeze Medicaid I am just looking at this. This is the the more people figure out what is in now. We have got to squeeze Medicare. distribution tables from the Joint this bill. That may be why they have We have got to squeeze Social Secu- Committee on Taxation, December 18, rushed this thing to passage in the rity. We have got to squeeze invest- 2017. Income category, a distribution of most chaotic legislative process I can ments in transportation, housing, edu- individual income tax side of the pro- ever remember. cation, and research. posal. 2019, a small $127 million reduc- They released thousands of pages of You can see it coming. We have seen tion for everybody making less than text on this bill last Friday and ex- this bad Republican movie before, al- $10,000. In 2021, they are actually pay- pected to vote on it today, of course. though never on such an epic scale. ing higher taxes. So the very, very bot- Maybe that is the reason why they Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, re- tom, in just 3 years, they are going to held no hearings. The less people know, claiming my time, we don’t need to pay higher taxes. the better. guess what they are going to do. The I notice that my friend from North Maybe that is why we have had al- Speaker of the House of Representa- Carolina has joined us, and I thank him most no debate. tives, Mr. RYAN, has said very clearly so very much for joining us. I know he Maybe that is why they won’t even that next year will be step two. They has a few things on his mind, as do Mr. allow for a complete scoring of the bill will take on what he calls the social CICILLINE and I. by the Joint Committee on Taxation or safety net: Social Security, Medicare, Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman the Congressional Budget Office. Medicaid, and food stamps. That is from North Carolina (Mr. PRICE) to Maybe that desire to cover up the where the cuts are going to come. This share with us his views on what has consequences of this is the reason they is not our words. These are the words happened today and where we are have added these questionable provi- of the leadership of this House of Rep- going. sions, to provide a fig leaf of coverage resentatives, the words of the Speaker. Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. for hesitant Members, skittish Mem- Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, I thank my colleague for bers who want to be able to explain Speaker, the gentleman is absolutely yielding. I am thankful that Mr. this vote back home. right. This has been in Republican GARAMENDI has taken out this Special Mr. Speaker, I have heard for years budgets forever, this war on the kind of Order and that so many colleagues Republican colleagues decry fiscal irre- safety net provisions that so many of have come out to express their views sponsibility, a lack of regular order in our fellow citizens depend on. on this travesty of a tax bill that was these Chambers and a lack of orderly, Fiscal rectitude, indeed. They are passed by the House today and that ap- responsible procedures. They have willing to go $1.5 trillion in the hole,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.112 H19DEPT1 H10238 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 willing to borrow that money, to take The actual reduction in revenues, $1.5 ical piece of legislation, which is now the national debt to dangerous levels. trillion, interest on top of that another hurdling through Congress today. But it is a matter of being able, then, $600 billion or so, so we are looking at I was reflecting, Mr. Speaker, that I to say: Poor us. Our country is broke. something really serious here. had never seen a riot before, and I won- We can’t afford to invest in our people. I would like to go through some of der how many people have been to a We can’t afford to build our infrastruc- the numbers. riot. And then as I was watching this ture. We can’t even afford to leave in- I looked at this. This is not some- bill being rammed through Congress, I tact the safety net that people have thing that is off 10 years from now. realized that we were observing up spent their lives depending on. This is now. close a riot, a ruling class riot, a trick- It is a travesty. This tax bill is not In 2019, the structural deficit that is le-down riot, special interest riot, a 1 just about taxes. It is about keeping already in place, without even talking percent riot against the rest of the faith with the American people; and about this additional burden of in- country, the 1 percent that will get 83 that faith, this very day, has been bro- creased deficit, the underlying struc- percent of the tax cuts, the 1 percent ken by the Republican Party. tural deficit in 2019 is right around $600 that is overseeing an explosion in our Mr. Speaker, I should say this. They billion. This tax bill will add maybe deficit, adding somewhere between $11⁄2 had an opportunity to do this the right $250 billion to $300 billion of additional trillion to $2.3 trillion to our deficit way. This wasn’t inevitable. This debt in 2019. So we are going to get that we are passing on to our children wasn’t written in stone. They could very close to $1 trillion of deficit in and our grandchildren. have worked with Democrats in Con- 2019. My constituents in Maryland are say- gress in a bipartisan way to figure out And, by the way, the military budget ing to me: Hey, if we are going to go how to grow the economy and how to is increased by about, I think it is over into an extra $11⁄2 trillion into deficits simplify our Tax Code. $50 billion. That is not paid for, so that and debt, why don’t we put that into an Do you remember that? Simplify the is additional debt. That is going to be infrastructure plan for America? Why Tax Code and file it on a postcard. This here on the floor tomorrow or the next not rebuild our transportation system, bill makes the Tax Code far, far more day. the roads, the highways, the bridges, complicated. It is a dream bill for tax In addition to that, there is this on- the Metro systems, the port authori- lawyers and accountants. going effort to deal with the hurri- ties, the water systems, and cybersecu- So no more simplification. That has canes, fires, and so forth. That is an- rity? They are collapsing in front of been forgotten. other $120 billion that is not paid for. our very eyes. So if we have got $11⁄2 They were going to lower the tax So if you take $120 billion, you take trillion that we are going to put on the burden for middle class families. We $50 billion, and you take the $250 bil- Federal tab, let’s direct it into infra- could have figured out how to do that lion to $300 billion in the tax bill and structure. without exploding the debt. There are you add that to the $600 billion that ex- But what do they bring us instead? many, many things we could have ists to begin with, in 2019, it will be Old-fashioned, shopworn, and histori- achieved together. over $1 trillion of new debt. And I will cally discredited trickle-down econom- We have, here, a once-in-a-decade op- guarantee that the exodus, the migra- ics. It never works. It never works to portunity, and they have blown it, they tion of the deficit hawks from Wash- cut taxes on the wealthy and big cor- have squandered it, and that is a ington, D.C., during December of 2017 porations and hope that the profits will source of great regret. In fact, the Re- will reverse in the warmer weather, just magically, mysteriously rain down publicans have jeopardized our eco- coming back next year. And those def- on the middle class and working peo- nomic future to give tax cuts, tailor- icit hawks will come back, they will ple. made, for corporate lobbyists and, as come back to Congress, and they will It has just never worked like that. they have actually said, to make their go right after the programs that FDR The only thing that does work is bub- donors happy—to make their donors talked about: those who have the least. ble-up middle class economics that happy. Our colleague, Mr. DEFAZIO, from the gives opportunity to everybody—the Mr. Speaker, we hope against hope Transportation and Infrastructure poor working people, the middle class— that the Senate might yet do the right Committee talked about what we could and the money will flow up. The rich thing, and when they have to clean up do if we had the money in infrastruc- will get richer. We have proven it. That this bill to bring it back to the House ture or if we had that billion dollars; when you actually invest in education for yet another vote, that our House 15,000 people would be employed. But and you invest in infrastructure and colleagues—it was a narrow vote. It we won’t—we won’t—have an infra- you invest in healthcare, everybody was a narrow vote. It would be wonder- structure program, and they will be does better. And then, because every- ful to turn it around. But we certainly back here. body is doing better, everybody does need to make sure that there is no mis- better, including the wealthy. We don’t take how this has happened, what has b 1815 need to have top-down class warfare, happened, and we must start, this very They will be back here to make cuts trickle-down economics in America. day, to figure out how to make our in the social safety net, as the Speaker But, hey, it is hard to stop a riot once economy and our country whole and to has already said he intends to do. Med- it gets going, and we are in the middle make it work for all of our people. icaid, $800 billion to $1 trillion reduc- of a riot here. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gentleman tion in Medicaid over the next decade. They said Malcolm X could stop a for this opportunity. This is very, very Who are the beneficiaries of Med- riot if he wanted to. Well, PAUL RYAN useful to be able to have this kind of icaid? could stop this riot if he wanted to. extended discussion. Even though the We think they are the people on wel- The GOP could stop this riot. Maybe subject matter is not happy—we have fare. Well, yes, but some 60 percent of even President Trump could stop this had a very bad day here in the House of Medicaid recipients are seniors, seniors riot. But the American oligarchs, the Representatives—it is important for us in nursing homes and long-term care ones who are friends with the Russian to pick up, move ahead, and realize the facilities. oligarchs, the American oligarchs can task that lies ahead. I thank Mr. PRICE very much for taste victory already. They are carting Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I joining us. off their TVs. They are checking out thank Mr. PRICE of North Carolina so I think I am going to stop for just a their gorgeous new yachts. They are very much. His thoughtful discussion moment and turn to my colleague from measuring the drapes at Mar-a-Lago. of this is much appreciated. the great State of Maryland. If the gen- They are polling for the Senate seats He mentioned the deficit issue. $1.5 tleman would care to join us, I yield to that they plan to buy with all of the trillion does not include the interest on Mr. RASKIN for his remarks. new campaign contributions that come the $1.5 trillion. So if you were to add Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, I am de- rolling in from the Mercers and the the interest to the $1.5 trillion, it lighted to join this evening. I thank Koch brothers and the other plutocrats would actually probably be over $2 tril- the gentleman for putting together a who are going to make out like bandits lion to $2.3 trillion that this will cost. discussion, a Special Order on this crit- with this highway robbery.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.113 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10239 In a riot, there is no time for hear- It means, if you are an American I was just thinking, as Mr. RASKIN ings, no time for facts, no time for eco- businessman and you are setting up was talking, of an old comic book that nomic analysis, no time for experts, no your new business, the American busi- used to be popular. It was one of the time for discussion or democracy. nessman or businesswoman, you are Donald Duck comic books, and I re- There is no time for us even to read the setting up your business on Main member it was Uncle Scrooge McDuck. lousy bills that their lobbyists write Street, you are going to pay 100 per- I guess, in his treasury, he was playing for them. They are too busy looting the cent of your taxes due. Your rate is with the dollars, throwing the coins up Treasury in the middle of the night, going to go way down under this bill, into the air. I am wondering if that is ransacking Medicare and Medicaid, and but you will pay 100 percent. If you what we are really into here. trashing the neighborhoods of the be- ship your business and your jobs over- The superwealthy are just accumu- leaguered American middle class by seas to Mexico or Indonesia or Switzer- lating more and more wealth. For the raising taxes on 86 million families land or Vietnam, you are going to pay benefit of the economy? Not really. It over the next decade. zero percent of what you would owe. doesn’t trickle down. There is abso- They are too busy trashing the State Now, I think they put in some tiny, lutely no evidence that it does. In fact, and local tax deduction, imposing dou- little fix about that saying: Well, if it there is plenty of historic economic ble taxes on our people, something that gets too extreme, if you press the joke evidence that trickle down doesn’t has not occurred since we developed too far, you will pay something, maybe work, but pushing up from the bottom the tax system back in 1862, when they 10 percent. would. We could have had a tax bill. Again, that was written in the mid- imposed the first revenue act. In the Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman dle of the night, so I haven’t seen that. middle of the Civil War, they exempted from Maryland (Mr. RASKIN). That is just a talking point. Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, I was State and local taxes. But let me just close with this: like shocked to read so many prominent Abraham Lincoln and the Repub- a riot, this tax scam has little to rec- licans said then, ‘‘That is double tax- ommend it. Its only redeeming feature elected officials and political ation; we won’t do it in the middle of is that it will wake a horrified country operatives on the GOP side saying that the Civil War,’’ when they needed to up to the depravity and greed that the whole reason for doing this is that raise money. have overtaken our politics and, I am their donors were effectively going on a And here we are, in a time of record sad to say, a once great political party strike and the donors were saying: If corporate profits, amazing prosperity in the United States of America. And you don’t get the tax bill through, that comes out of the Obama adminis- when we wake up to the fiscal damage don’t expect contributions from us. tration, amazing economic expansion and the political hangover, then they We couldn’t have a more vivid dem- and growth, and what do they want to will be coming with their meat cleav- onstration of plutocracy in the coun- do? ers towards Social Security and Medi- try. They want to impose double taxation care and Medicaid. Mr. GARAMENDI. Well, if their tax on what they say is the blue States be- And when the American people bill is for their donors, we have a pret- cause now America has got to be di- bounce out the people who rioted ty good idea who the beneficiaries of vided. today, when they bounce them out of the tax bill are. So the donors are the It is their States and our States, so office, well, it is going to be okay for plutocrats, the superwealthy. It is Wall the blue States are going to just pay them because they can go and work for Street. Very much it is Wall Street be- more. That is the way that they are the lobbyists and the big companies cause this is really about raising the pursuing their tax policy in the United that made out like bandits today. So stock price. States Congress. You could almost un- the joke is on us if this actually goes I think Mr. RASKIN may not have derstand and appreciate this trickle- through. But don’t forget that what we been here when I put this up, but I am down mob mentality if it were just our saw today was a riot from above. going to do it one more time. It has own rich people who were wilding Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, I been clear that before the 1980s, 50 per- against American democracy. After all, thank Mr. RASKIN so very much for his cent, maybe 55 percent, 60 percent of the top 1 percent in America today remarks. The voice of Maryland is the after-tax income of corporations owns only as much wealth as the bot- strong and powerful and quite correct. went into creating a bigger corpora- tom 90 percent combined. There is still Mr. RASKIN spoke of income inequality. tion, into manufacturing jobs, plant the remnants of the middle class to de- The wealthy in America, the top 1 equipment, hiring more people, paying stroy, and it is hard to keep up with percent, own as much wealth as the better wages. the lifestyle of the rich and famous in bottom 90 percent? Beginning in the mid-1980s or so, that Trump’s billionaire Cabinet. Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, yes, I did began to shift so that, today, exactly So they need to drive 13 million say that. the opposite occurs. Maybe 70, 80 per- Americans off of their health insur- Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, this cent of the after-tax profits now go ance. They need to make tens of mil- bill would seem to further the skewing into buying back stock, increasing the of wealth to the wealthy. lions of Americans pay more in taxes. stock price, higher dividends. Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, the whole But here is the thing: one-third of the Case in point: the corporate tax give- point is to cement into place an oligar- corporate windfall in their gigantic away in this bill, which is actually—I chy, a plutocracy. corporate tax break, which is the heart One of the reasons that the Founders said earlier it was $1.4 trillion reduc- of their bill, hundreds of billions of dol- of America were so opposed to the tion in corporate taxes over the next lars, one-third of the money will go to intergenerational transmission of decade. It is actually $1.3 trillion. My foreign investors in Saudi Arabia, in wealth is because they said that is apologies for being incorrect. China, in Russia. The one-third of the going to increase idleness, laziness, $1.3 trillion reduction in corporate American stock that is owned by for- presumptuousness, and entitlement in taxes. For a company like Wells Fargo, eign investors is going to just sail out- new generations. a rather major bank, the corporate tax side of the country immediately when At a certain point, if you buy enough giveaway will give Wells Fargo an 18 we do this. houses, if you buy enough horses, if percent earnings increase. And that huge sucking sound of hun- you buy enough yachts, if you buy How does Wells Fargo intend to dreds of billions of dollars flowing to enough jewels, what do you want? spend it? other people’s oligarchs will be fol- Well, you want a governorship. You Not on jobs. lowed by billions more in investments want a Senate seat. Here is what the CEO of Wells Fargo, and millions more in jobs because of That is not democracy. That is plu- Mr. Tim Sloan, said in December of another little trick that got tucked tocracy. So we can’t let this system of 2017. That is this month. He said: ‘‘Is it into this bag of tricks on the American wealth discrimination and separation our goal to increase return to share- people and treats for our plutocrats. devour our basic democratic values. holders, and do we have an excess Their bill changes our tax policy to a Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, that amount of capital? The answer to both territorial system. is interesting. Perhaps the House of is ‘yes.’ So our expectation should be Well, what does that mean? Lords is in our future. that we will continue to increase our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.115 H19DEPT1 H10240 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 dividend and our share buybacks next deal. That is why a lot of parts of the announced policy of January 3, 2017, year and the year after that and the country are moving to public financing the gentleman from Texas (Mr. FLO- year after that.’’ now, because it is remarkable how RES) is recognized for 60 minutes as the So where are the jobs? much damage you could do to the designee of the majority leader. May I cite one other example. Low- country on the cheap with a relatively Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise ering the corporate tax rate was said to small investment. After the Supreme today to honor Dr. Haskell Monroe, Jr., be an incentive for corporations to in- Court’s decision in 2010, in the Citizens of Bryan-College Station, Texas, who vest. Well, here is one of the great United case, redefining corporations as passed away on November 13, 2017. American corporations. political citizens, now the CEOs can Haskell Monroe, Jr., was born in Dal- Are they investing? take money directly out of the cor- las, Texas, on March 18, 1931. He was I think not. They are buying back porate treasury and put it into politics. the only child of Haskell Monroe, Sr., stock. Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, from and Myrtle Monroe. AT&T, another major American cor- their own mouth comes from the truth The family of three lived in Garland, poration, effectively reduced its tax of what Mr. RASKIN said. They have Texas, until Haskell, Jr., was ten, when rate to 8 percent over the last decade. said it very clearly, they need to do they moved to Fort Smith, Arkansas, So they are paying not 21 percent, as this for their contributors. because of his father’s job with the Who are their contributors? Well, the this bill would require. They are pay- United States Department of War. wealthy, the superwealthy, and the ing 8 percent. They lived there for 2 years before Did they create jobs? rest. Mr. Speaker, I think we are going to moving to Orange, Texas, where the No. During that same period of time, family resided through Haskell’s high they laid off 80,000 workers. wrap it up here. I want to thank Mr. RASKIN for his participation. I want to school years. Mr. Speaker, I yield to Mr. RASKIN, if thank my colleagues who came to the During his high school years, Haskell he would like to make a few closing re- was an active member of the band, the marks, and then I will wrap up. floor tonight to express their dismay at what has happened. track and field team, the football b 1830 Now, because the bill was rushed team, and he was a member of the Boy Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank through without any public hearings, Scouts. His experience at schools in the gentleman, once again, for this op- there were errors in the bill that re- both Garland and Orange fostered a portunity and for his leadership. quire that the Senate take the ap- love of learning that lasted throughout Mr. Speaker, the gentleman makes a proved conference committee report his life. superb point. We are at a point of and modify it, which I suppose means After graduating from high school in record corporate profits. The corpora- there has to be yet another conference 1948, he went on to Austin College in tions are swimming in profits and in committee, modify it, remove the er- Sherman, Texas, where he continued cash, and if they wanted to be employ- rors that are in conflict with the Sen- his involvement in track and field and ing more people, they could be employ- ate rules, and send it back here. Pre- football. He graduated from Austin ing more people now. sumably, that will be done tomorrow. College in 1952, with a bachelor’s de- Mr. GARAMENDI. Mr. Speaker, they Maybe now, as we bring to the atten- gree in both history and English. could be raising wages. I yield to the tion of the American public the way in After graduation, he started graduate gentleman. which this tax bill is harmful to the school at Austin College working to Mr. RASKIN. Mr. Speaker, or raising economy, harmful to the American earn his master’s in history. While wages. They could do it right now. middle class, and will result in 83 mil- working during his master’s degree, All that we are doing is bestowing lion Americans immediately paying Haskell began teaching at nearby more of a bonus on them so they can higher taxes, and over the period of Denison High School. He taught his- give more money away to the CEOs. In time, everybody that is less than tory at Denison and found his lifelong the stock dividends and in the stock $100,000, maybe $150,000, will be paying calling to be an educator while he was buybacks, it is cash gains within the higher taxes, but the wealthy and the working there. corporations, so they are going to get corporations will go on and have their In 1954, Haskell enlisted in the wealthier. There is no reason to be- lower taxes for many, many years to United States Navy. He served for 3 grudge that. It is a large part of a lot come, all of that hopefully will begin years in the Navy, and while in the of people’s dreams to make a lot of to sink in on the American public, and Navy, Haskell’s passion for teaching money, but let’s not press a good joke they will rise up in indignation and never wavered, and he continued to too far. call a halt to what is a major rip-off of teach while stationed in South Caro- They are making tons of money right the American Treasury and America’s lina. There, he taught English to vis- now, and we have got serious needs in future. iting Japanese sailors and volunteered So we will continue to talk about the country. We have got an infrastruc- as an assistant coach for a local high this in the days ahead, and those who ture crisis. Our roads and our highways school football team. have voted for this are going to be held and our metro systems and our water Haskell completed his service and responsible and accountable as the systems are suffering—our schools, our was discharged from the Navy in 1956. days and the months go by. Shortly thereafter, he met the love of universities, our community colleges. Keep in mind that the Texas Two- his life, Margaret Joann Phillips, Why not invest in some common Step is very much in play, and that, in known as Jo. The two met while Has- things that bring us together as a soci- the days ahead, in the next year, as the kell was working on historical research ety, rather than having highway rob- weather warms, the returned migration in North Carolina. On June 15, 1957, Jo bery from above against the rest of the of the deficit hawks will take place, and Haskell were married. country? It is just incomprehensible to and they will go after Medicare, Med- In addition to 78 years of love and me. icaid, food stamps, education, chil- happiness, the marriage produced four I have got to believe this is some- dren’s health, and other programs that children: Stephen, Melanie, Mark, and thing to do with the corruption of our men and women of America rely upon, John; and eight grandchildren. campaign finance regime. People are and perhaps many, many more. talking about: Well, we are waiting for We will be fighting this fight for The Monroes moved to Houston after the contributions to come in, and that many months to come. their wedding in order for Haskell to they are telling us on the phone they Mr. Speaker, keeping in mind the pursue a Ph.D. in history at Rice Uni- don’t want to give us contributions words of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, I versity. They eventually moved to the until we pass the tax bill. yield back the balance of my time. Bryan-College Station area in 1959. One So give them hundreds of billions, f of his doctoral professors at Rice, Dr. drive us into trillions of dollars in Frank Vandiver, who would himself debt, and then they will give us back HONORING HASKELL MONROE, JR. one day become the president at Texas hundreds of thousands of dollars in The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. A&M University, helped Haskell get his campaign contributions. It is a bad HOLLINGSWORTH). Under the Speaker’s first job.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.117 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10241 With Dr. Vandiver’s recommenda- military men and women who protect looked forward to dinners every Mon- tion, Haskell became a professor of his- us from external threats, and for our day night, where his immediate family tory at the Agricultural and Mechan- first responders who protect us here at would gather to enjoy food and fellow- ical College of Texas. This initial posi- home. ship. tion was the beginning of a decades- HONORING ROBERT ‘‘POPEYE’’ CARTER Mr. Speaker, selfless service to all long career both as a professor and as Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise those around him defined Popeye an administrator. today to honor retired Staff Sergeant Carter’s life. He worked tirelessly to One of his early contributions to Robert Carter of Waco, Texas, better defend our freedom and to better our Texas A&M was his appointment to the known as Popeye to his friends. He Waco community. He is loved by his Texas A&M Aspirations Committee. passed away on November 26, 2017. city, and he certainly left an enduring This initiative was commissioned by Popeye was born in 1953 and grew up impression on all of central Texas. then-President Earl Rudder to rec- in the Waco area. In 1972, he graduated He will be forever remembered as a ommend changes to the university to from Richfield High School. After grad- selfless soldier, a philanthropist, a put the institution on sound footing for uation, he married his high school community member, a husband, a fa- the future. sweetheart, Geni Kay Reeves. Popeye ther, a grandfather, and a friend. Among the recommendations to also heard the call to serve his country My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest come out of this committee were the and enlisted in the United States Army and heartfelt condolences to the Carter admission of female students, non- in 1972. family. We also lift up the family and compulsory membership in the Corps of He was stationed in Frankfurt, Ger- friends of Popeye Carter in our prayers. Cadets, racial integration, higher ad- many, where he patrolled the Czech I have requested the United States mission standards, and input that led border during the Cold War. He served flag be flown over the Capitol to honor to changing the name of the university on Active Duty from 1972 to 1975. the life and legacy of Robert ‘‘Popeye’’ to Texas A&M University. After his Active-Duty service was up, Carter. Haskell left Texas A&M, in 1980, to Popeye served in the Army Reserves As I close today, I urge all Americans become president at the University of from 1975 to 1995, and all his career in to continue praying for our country Texas-El Paso, commonly known as the Army spanned 23 years. during these difficult times, for our UTEP. In November 1990, Popeye was called military men and women who protect After 7 years at UTEP, he became the into Active Duty with his reserve unit. us from threats abroad, and for our chancellor at the University of Mis- The unit shipped off to fight in the first responders who protect us here at souri, where he remained until 1993. Gulf war. His unit was placed on the home. Under his leadership, both schools front lines, incurring heavy artillery HONORING CALVIN ‘‘RYAN’’ COFFER reached new heights as academic insti- fire throughout their time in the Gulf. Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise He returned to the United States, tutions, enrolling record numbers of today to honor U.S. Marine Corps Staff where he soon found out that he was students, increasing minority student Sergeant Calvin ‘‘Ryan’’ Coffer of suffering from what became known as populations, and molding many Na- Bryan, Texas, who passed away on Oc- Gulf War Syndrome. The aftermath of tional Merit Award scholars. tober 24, 2017. the war affected Popeye for the rest of In his down time, Haskell enjoyed Ryan Coffer was born on September his life. collecting postcards from towns where 22, 1983. From a young age, he was in- After Popeye’s service, he came back volved in the Boy Scouts and achieved he had lived and visited while trav- home to Waco and served as a me- eling, especially the back roads of the the highest rank of Eagle Scout. chanic for 30 years. Always wanting to True to his Texas roots, he enjoyed United States and Mexico, and learning give back, he began volunteering to hunting, fishing, and loved watching history through commemorative help local veterans at the Veterans football, especially the Dallas Cowboys bricks, plaques, and roadside markers One-stop, which offers support services and the fighting Texas Aggies, espe- in historical places. to veterans to help them reintegrate cially with his grandmother, Mimi. He also shared his father’s passion into society and provide them with an 1845 for woodworking and was known to outlet to meet other veterans in the b create many pieces for his friends and area. He was known as someone who Growing up, Ryan spent many days his family. would help anyone in need, often anon- working alongside his father in a local A member of the local community, ymously. theater company, a small performance Haskell was a member of the Rotary A man of great faith, Popeye believed theater in Brazos Valley. Club and served on boards of the strongly in God and used his faith to True to his nature, Ryan put duty be- United Way, Salvation Army, and Boy carry him through life. He openly fore himself. He felt a call, and he an- Scouts. He was also a lifelong member shared his faith with others and be- swered it by serving his country in the of the Presbyterian church, where he lieved in helping those in spiritual United States Marine Corps. He en- also served as an elder and an ordained need just as much as those with phys- listed as an infantryman. Ryan was as- deacon. ical wounds. signed to the 2nd Battalion, 4th Ma- Mr. Speaker, Haskell Monroe worked After the passing of his first wife, he rines and, later, to the 5th Head- tirelessly to teach young people and to married and enjoyed a new beginning quarters Company based in Camp Pen- give back to his community. He is with his wife, Roxanne Carter. To- dleton, California. During his service, loved by our Bryan-College Station gether, their family had a son and he deployed three times, once to Japan community, and he left an enduring three daughters, as well as ten grand- and twice to Iraq. impression on the entire State of children, all of whom Popeye loved Ryan was a well-decorated Marine Texas. He will be forever remembered dearly. and rose to the rank of staff sergeant. as a great educator, colleague, philan- In 2013, Popeye was nominated by the His awards include the Marine Corps thropist, community leader, husband, members of our community for the Achievement Medal with Valor, the father, grandfather, and friend. Texas 17th Congressional District Vet- Combat Action Ribbon, the Good Con- My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest eran Commendation award. It was an duct Medal, the National Defense Serv- and heartfelt condolences to the Mon- honor to bestow this unique award that ice Medal, the Iraq Campaign Medal roe family. We also lift up the family recognized his selfless service to both with Gold Star, and the Global War on and friends of Dr. Monroe in our pray- our Nation and to our central Texas Terrorism Service Medal. ers. community. Part of his duties included being a I have requested that a United States In his free time, Popeye enjoyed the zodiak fast assault specialist, a squad flag be flown over the Capitol to honor outdoors, and he loved to fish. He was leader, and a marksman instructor. On the life and legacy of Dr. Haskell Mon- also an avid motorcyclist and was rou- his second deployment to Iraq, he was roe, Jr. tinely seen riding his Harley Davidson tasked with providing security to Gen- As I close today, I urge all Americans with friends. eral David Petraeus. to continue praying for our country A dedicated family man, Popeye Ryan embodied the core values of during these difficult times, for our loved to spend time with his family and being a United States Marine, and he

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.119 H19DEPT1 H10242 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 felt that his true mission was to make bombing missions in China and partici- uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Ari- sure his squad made it home safely. pated in combat during the Battle of zona (Mr. SCHWEIKERT) is recognized After leaving the Marine Corps, Ryan Hanoi Harbor. for the remainder of the hour as the set a goal to attend college at Texas After his service in World War II, Bob designee of the majority leader. A&M University. He was accepted into reenlisted during the Korean war. In Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, as Texas A&M, and he planned to attend Korea, he flew an astounding 43 bomb- we try to get the boards to line up, we the university after holding out one se- ing missions and earned a Purple Heart are only going to do three of these mester to work and to save money for for wounds that he suffered after being today. school. Ryan embodied the core values shot down over North Korea. Mr. Speaker, one of the things I of Texas A&M through his spirit of Bob again reenlisted to serve when wanted to do tonight, and we did it selfless service, leadership, loyalty, the Vietnam war broke out. He never during sort of the debate earlier and integrity. missed combat in any of the wars he today—I hear lots of the discussions Unfortunately, the toll of his mili- fought in, and he was proud of his mili- from our brothers and sisters on the tary service manifested itself in the tary service until the day he passed. left about the tax bill, and we often form of PTSD, which, unfortunately, While stationed at James Connolly tease that this place is often a math- went undiagnosed. As the long-term ef- Air Force Base, Bob met a beautiful free zone, but I wanted to actually go a woman named Ann at the Officers’ fects of war began to grow within him, little bit bigger on why this tax bill is Club, and they married in 1952. They he ultimately became another victim actually so crucial to every American, enjoyed 64 years of marriage together of PTSD, and his life ended far too whether you be on the left, on the and raised three sons—Steve, Bob, and early. right, or just out there working as hard Jeff—all of whom graduated from Mr. Speaker, Sergeant Coffer worked as you can and not thinking about poli- Baylor University in Waco. tics. tirelessly to serve our country as well Though he was often traveling, Bob as family and friends. He is loved by The chart I have right on the side, made a point to be there for his sons this is what our nonpartisan Congres- our Bryan-College Station community, and to make sure they were being and he left an enduring impression on sional Budget Office has come up with raised well. He was known as a loving as our economic growth future. If you the Brazos Valley. Ryan will be forever father who raised his sons with a remembered as a courageous Marine, take a look over here, you will see 1.8 steady hand, and he passed on his love percent GDP growth for the next 10 leader, loving son, community mem- of flying, golf, and family to his three ber, and friend. years. But we then skyrocket up to sons. Today, his legacy includes 25 fam- just, actually, if you saw the details, My wife, Gina, and I lift up our deep- ily members, including grandchildren est and heartfelt condolences to the just slightly under 2. And then the next and great-grandchildren. decade, so 30 years from now, we fall Coffer family. We also lift up Ryan’s Bob was a patriotic man and always family and friends in our prayers. back down to 1.9 percent GDP growth. flew the American flag outside his Why this is crucial is, as baby I have requested the United States home in Waco. He always made a point flag be flown over the Capitol to honor boomers are retiring, we have lots of to stand for the Pledge of Allegiance promises. You have heard discussions, the life and legacy of Ryan Coffer. and the national anthem, even as his As I close today, I ask all Americans just even someone that was behind the health began to fail him late in life. microphone 40 minutes ago, on the to continue to pray for our country Bob was known for giving back to the other side, talking about Medicare. during these difficult times, for our local community, and he had a strong There are estimates out there that, military men and women who protect faith in God. Bob served in a position over the 75-year actuarial window, us from threats overseas, and for our of leadership at the Covenant Church Medicare is $105 trillion underfunded. first responders who protect us here at for 27 years. He was well-known for It is the largest unfunded liability we home. greeting parishioners with a smile at know in America and, possibly, the the doors of the church. His friendly HONORING LIEUTENANT COLONEL BOB AMMON world. This is what happens when you and welcoming manner will surely be Mr. FLORES. Mr. Speaker, I rise are growing at 1.8 percent GDP. missed at Covenant Church. today to honor retired Lieutenant If you love people, if you want this Mr. Speaker, Bob worked tirelessly Colonel Bob Ammon of Waco, Texas, society to have an opportunity to keep who passed away on September 28, 2017. to protect our country, to raise a strong family, and to serve our Waco its promises to our seniors, to our kids, Bob was born in West Reading, Penn- to that working family, we must have sylvania, on February 28, 1924. He community. He is loved by his friends and family, and he left an enduring im- economic growth. would spend his early years in West I talked about this earlier today, a pression on all of central Texas. He will Reading, growing up in what he de- terrific editorial in The Wall Street be forever remembered as an American scribed as an ‘‘average American Journal over this weekend, saying, hero, a great community member, a home.’’ He grew up with an older hey, from the left’s eyes, they think husband, a father, a grandfather, a brother, Jim, and a younger sister, about equality, income inequality, and Marjorie. great-grandfather, and a friend. My wife, Gina, and I offer our deepest from the Republican side, we often In 1941, Bob was a senior in high and heartfelt condolences to the sound like accountants. And I am school when the Japanese struck Pearl Ammon family. We also lift up the sorry, but the math is important. Harbor on December 7, 1941. Not being family and friends of Bob in our pray- We think about economic growth be- old enough for the draft, Bob was still ers. cause, if you look at the next chart, I determined to serve his country and I have requested that a United States just want you to sort of look at the contribute to the war effort. In 1942, he flag be flown over the Capitol to honor very, very end. You see this sort of decided to take the aviation exam to the life and legacy of Lieutenant Colo- gold line, green line, the other green become a pilot in the United States nel Bob Ammon. line. Do you see the separation? That is Army. He passed the exam and, on Au- As I close today, I urge all Americans income inequality. It has grown dra- gust 25, 1942, he was sworn into the to continue praying for our country matically in the last decade. Army. during these difficult times, for our We have also grown at only 1.8 per- He was called into Active Duty in military men and women who protect cent GDP the last decade. Slow eco- 1943, beginning flight training in Santa us abroad, and for our first responders nomic expansion is where you get the Ana, California, and completing his who protect us from threats here at income inequality. training at Fort Sumner, New Mexico. home. If the left here actually cared about After graduating from flight school, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance the very issue they talk about all the Bob was assigned to Mather Air Force of my time. time, they would be embracing tax Base to begin training as a B–25 bomb- bills, regulatory bills, things that f er pilot. In 1944, he began bombing runs would actually expand the size of this with the 11th Bomb Squadron, who OUR ECONOMIC GROWTH FUTURE economy so everyone has a fighting were fighting to dismantle the Japa- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under chance. But you find the politics of di- nese occupation of China. He flew 21 the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- vision very powerful around here.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.121 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10243 Look, we all get the joke. We under- the key elements in that. And, yes, it Now, understand, that was just sub- stand that so many of our brothers and is going to also require thinking stantially a basic income tax. It wasn’t sisters on the left, they are terrified, or through immigration. It is going to be rewriting parts of the Tax Code. What their base is angry, however we want to thinking through regulations. It is so many folks forget to tell you, if you define it. You can’t let the Republicans going to be thinking through the adop- go back to 2002 and you actually look have a victory, particularly on rewrit- tion of technology. at what we call the baseline—and I am ing the Tax Code for the first time in 31 b 1900 sorry, this is going to geek out a little years, even though, if you actually bit—baseline is our model of what we look at many of their records in the But understand, you can’t stand think revenues are going to look like around here and give speeches about past, they have all stood behind micro- and what spending is going to look like income inequality and then support the phones and said the Tax Code is abys- over the next decade. Then you look at very policies that actually create it. mal. It stifles economic expansion; it those things that are referred to as the The intellectual inconsistency around hurts hardworking people; and, in a Bush tax cuts when they finally ex- here is so frustrating. low-growth environment, with this This is a really interesting board, pired. You do realize the revenues—the rev- crappy Tax Code, this is what you get. and why it is so important is that I ask enues—that came into this government But the politics are so uncomfortable for everyone to stop thinking about the that, for a lot of our friends, it is more actual debt number and think about it were $77 billion higher than the projec- uncomfortable to vote for something as its ratio, as its percentage, as its tion, yet you will hear people get up that actually might be seen as a Re- burden on the size of the economy. behind the microphone and say: Well, publican victory. If we have a $20 trillion economy and these didn’t pay for themselves. So I wish I had an elegant way of $20 trillion of debt, we are at 100 per- But that is not the math. begging my friends on the Democratic cent of debt to GDP. Our economy is Now, this government spent a lot side, saying: Just think about it as giv- actually a bit bigger than that, but if more money than was projected. We ing every American a fighting chance you actually look at this red line, that had wars, we had bailouts, we had because, if we start to grow, you actu- is entitlements. storms. We have had all sorts of things. ally get paid more; you have more job Do you notice all those years where We spent a lot more money. But if you opportunities; you can save money for it is flat? actually look at the revenue line when your retirement, for your kids. Because That is actually not because we were those 2002 tax cuts expired, there was where we are at today and where we spending less money on entitlements. $77 billion more in revenue than was have been the last decade, we are in What that is about is we were growing projected. real trouble. as an economy. Yes, we were still Is that because of the tax cuts? You actually look at some of the spending more money, but we were Partially. Maybe. But there were lots nonpartisan groups, and even some of growing faster than the growth in that of other effects in the economy, adop- the partisan groups, on their analyses spending. tions of technology, and all sorts of of what the U.S. debt structure looks If you care about fairness, if you care things. But the basic rule of thumb is: like, there are many of these models about opportunity, if you care about Here is where we thought we would be, that, in about 15, 18 years, they col- the ability to save, if you care about and we were $77 billion over that. lapse, our debt to GDP. income inequality, you have got to Back to this concept of: Are there What that means is, when we say, step up and do those things that are tax cuts that pay for themselves? ‘‘Here is the size of our economy, gross difficult—and they are very difficult— Absolutely. domestic product—here is the size of that will maximize economic expansion Are there tax cuts that don’t? our economy, and here is the size of in this country, because the difficulties Absolutely. our debt,’’ in just a few years, we actu- that are coming in the next decade in And that was one of the really gut- ally surpass the amount of publicly our inability to have enough resources wrenching parts of this discussion. If sold debt. or enough borrowing capacity to con- you actually spend some time looking This is not where we are borrowing tinue to pay is devastating. We need at a nonpartisan group like the Tax from our own trust funds. The publicly this economy to continue to grow. Foundation and look at a lot of their held debt passes the entire size of our As we walk through this, I want to modeling, they would come back to us economy, and it keeps going and going actually walk through also a couple of and say: Hey, you could spend this and going and going. That is status observations. And forgive me, but this money on something that is great poli- quo. is one of those opportunities where you tics, but you get almost no economic Please understand, the status quo has have a few minutes to share. expansion from it. Or you could spend many of the models collapsing, much of I hold a seat on the Ways and Means that same money or something over this economy, in about 15, 18 years be- Committee. It has been fascinating. On here that turns out not to be great pol- cause our debt is so huge it consumes occasion you will hear folks say: Well, itics, but is really good for the econ- everything. this was rushed through. omy and really good a few years from Social entitlements right now are Well, except it was built on about a now and someone being able to find a about three-quarters of all of our decade’s worth of work. If you look at job, someone being able to be paid spending. Medicare, Medicaid, Social all the years that Dave Camp, the pre- more, someone being able to save for Security, that includes benefits of vious chairman of the Ways and Means their retirement or their kids. other welfare programs, earned and un- Committee; and then the chairman How do you get up in front of an au- earned, that is three-quarters of our after him, who happened to be PAUL dience and say, ‘‘I know we would love spending, and it is going to become RYAN; and now the chairman, KEVIN to have this because this gets me re- dramatically more. BRADY, there are volumes and volumes elected. But for that same money, our So if you are someone who actually of documentation. There are volumes society, economically, will be cares about health research, if you ac- and volumes of hearings and data. And healthier, bigger, wealthier a few years tually care about education, if you care there has got to be hundreds of hours of from now if you put that money in ex- about the national parks, if you care video out there of different hearings, pensing, in certain types of business about the military, if you care about both the whole committee and the sub- tax cuts, because that expands the size our relations around the world, all committees have done, in just trying of the economy’’? those are getting squeezed because of, to understand what affects economic That is something a lot of folks substantially, the demographic curve growth, what works and what doesn’t haven’t thought about as they grind we are already in, the growth of those work. through the technical details of thou- populations, and our attempt to keep An observation. How many people in sands of thousands of pages of the Tax our promises. the last couple weeks have you heard Code. Parts of the Tax Code are abso- If you care about keeping our prom- walk up behind these microphones and lutely an economic document. ises, you care about the economic use the early 2000s as an economic ex- How you make us competitive in the growth; and the tax rewrite is one of ample of a tax cut? world again? How do you maximize

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.122 H19DEPT1 H10244 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 economic expansion? How do you maxi- Mr. Speaker, just as an idiosyncrasy, received December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 mize opportunity for everyone to have over the last couple months, I have U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. a good-paying job? been keeping a little bit of a notebook 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure. But a Tax Code is also a political of many of the comments that have 3434. A letter from the Management and document. These are things that are come from my brothers and sisters in Program Analyst, FAA, Department of very popular. These are things that get this body, some supporting the tax bill Transportation, transmitting the Depart- us elected. These are things that cer- and making claims, many opposing the ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E tain special interests line up at our tax bill and making claims. Airspace; Seward, NE [Docket No.: FAA-2017- door, walk around the hallways. If you I am going to make a mark in my 0354; Airspace Docket No.: 17-ACE-8] received actually saw the hallways over the last calendar, 1 year from now coming back December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. few months, I didn’t know there were 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 behind this microphone, and we are Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- that many lobbyists in this town, all going to open up that journal and we tation and Infrastructure. advocating for something for their are going to read what was said. Hope- 3435. A letter from the Management and business, for their State, for their com- fully the American people at that time Program Analyst, FAA, Department of munity. All are honorable. But you will understand this is political rhet- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- have got to understand, when we put oric and this is actually based in math. ment’s final rule — Amendment of Multiple Restricted Areas; Vandenberg AFB, CA together a few-hundred-page bill and And that math, I am desperately hop- grind through it month after month [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0985; Airspace Docket ing and desperately believing, is going No.: 17-AWP-21] received December 14, 2017, after month and make a change here to be great for our country. pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law and a change here, and then realize the Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- interactivity when they actually model of my time. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- it turns out this idea blows up this ture. idea, the number of hours that have f 3436. A letter from the Management and gone into making this math work are LEAVE OF ABSENCE Program Analyst, FAA, Department of stunning and it is a really good docu- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- By unanimous consent, leave of ab- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- ment. sence was granted to: tives; Saab AB, Saab Aeronautics (Formerly Is it everything all of us would want? Mrs. NAPOLITANO (at the request of Known as Saab AB, Saab Aerosystems) Air- No. Being a Representative from Ari- Ms. PELOSI) for today after 4:30 p.m. planes [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0563; Product zona, I believe it is really good for my and balance of week on account of Identifier 2017-NM-021-AD; Amendment 39- State. 19076; AD 2017-21-05] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received But the thing I care most about is it death in family. December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. being good for our country. I believe Ms. CLARKE of New York (at the re- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 the tax bill, the tax reform, is fair to quest of Ms. PELOSI) for the first series Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- of votes today. tation and Infrastructure. individuals. It is simpler. It is going to 3437. A letter from the Management and also deal with the hemorrhaging we f Program Analyst, FAA, Department of have of corporations—and these are big ADJOURNMENT Transportation, transmitting the Depart- corporations—leaving our country, hid- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- ing their profits overseas, and moving Mr. SCHWEIKERT. Mr. Speaker, I tives; Gulfstream Aerospace LP (Type Cer- their expenses to the United States. move that the House do now adjourn. tificate Previously Held by Israel Aircraft Is that fair? The motion was agreed to; accord- Industries, Ltd.) Airplanes [Docket No.: Of course it isn’t, but that is what ingly (at 7 o’clock and 11 minutes FAA-2017-0693; Product Identifier 2017-NM- the current Tax Code allows. p.m.), under its previous order, the 044-AD; Amendment 39-19074; AD 2017-21-03] If you hear someone saying, ‘‘Vote (RIN: 2120-AA64) December 14, 2017, pursuant House adjourned until tomorrow, to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, ‘no’ on this bill,’’ if you hear them say- Wednesday, December 20, 2017, at 9 a.m. Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on ing, ‘‘We prefer the status quo,’’ under- for morning-hour debate. Transportation and Infrastructure. stand what they are saying: We want to 3438. A letter from the Management and f live in a world of absolute mediocrity, Program Analyst, FAA, Department of with almost no economic growth, no EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, Transportation, transmitting the Depart- opportunity to save, have higher sala- ETC. ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- ries and higher opportunities. We are tives; Gulfstream Aerospace LP (Type Cer- Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive happy having, in a decade and a half, a tificate Previously Held by Israel Aircraft communications were taken from the Industries, Ltd.) Airplanes [Docket No.: debt crisis in this country. Speaker’s table and referred as follows: FAA-2017-0692; Product Identifier 2017-NM- And what they are also saying is they 043-AD; Amendment 39-19075]; AD 2017-21-04] 3430. A communication from the President are okay with the hemorrhaging of (RIN: 2120-AA64) received December 14, 2017, of the United States, transmitting the Na- American industry leaving this coun- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law tional Security Strategy of the United 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- try because of the tax arbitrage, where States, pursuant to 50 U.S.C. 3043(a)(1); Pub- mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- they can get a better deal in other lic Law 99-433, Sec. 603(a)(1); (100 Stat. 1075); ture. parts of the world. to the Committee on Armed Services. That is the absurdity of some of the 3439. A letter from the Management and 3431. A letter from the President, Institute Program Analyst, FAA, Department of arguments you have heard around this for Defense Analyses, transmitting a report Transportation, transmitting the Depart- body. entitled, ‘‘Report on Elements Contributing ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- So back to my fairly snarky com- to Expenses Incurred by Contractors for Bid tives; Dassault Aviation Airplanes [Docket ment: We get the joke. We understand and Proposal’’, pursuant to Sec. 824 of the No.: FAA-2016-9500; Product Identifier 2016- there are many out there who are terri- National Defense Authorization Act for FY NM-140-AD; Amendment 39-19072; AD 2017-21- fied of Republicans getting a win here. 2017, Public Law 114-328; to the Committee 01] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received December 14, But I want to argue that this is not a on Armed Services. 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public 3432. A letter from the Acting Assistant Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the win for Republicans. It is a win for our Secretary for Congressional and Intergovern- society because, if we start moving Committee on Transportation and Infra- mental Relations, Department of Housing structure. away from that 1.8 percent economic and Urban Development, transmitting the 3440. A letter from the Management and growth that our congressional budget Fiscal Year 2017 Federal Housing Adminis- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of has projected for the next decade, we tration Annual Management Report, pursu- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- have a fighting chance to financially ant to OMB Circular A-136, Sec. 1.6,; to the ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- keep our promises, to have a strong Committee on Oversight and Government tives; Embraer S.A. Airplanes [Docket No.: military, to have that money for our Reform. FAA-2017-0697; Product Identifier 2017-NM- education, to have that money for 3433. A letter from the Management and 041-AD; Amendment 39-19080; AD 2017-21-09] Program Analyst, FAA, Department of (RIN: 2120-AA64) received December 14, 2017, healthcare research, and for you as an Transportation, transmitting the Depart- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law American citizen to see your salaries ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- increase, see your ability to save, and Airspace; Prineville, OR [Docket No.: FAA- mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- know you have a brighter future. 2017-0616; Airspace Docket No.: 17-ANM-26] ture.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K19DE7.124 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10245 3441. A letter from the Management and 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- tation and Infrastructure. tives; Airbus Airplanes [Docket No.: FAA- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- 3449. A letter from the Management and 2016-6429; Product Identifier 2015-NM-117-AD; tives; Airbus Airplanes [Docket No.: FAA- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Amendment 39-19083; AD 2017-22-03] (RIN: 2017-0628; Product Identifier 2016-NM-207-AD; Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 2120-AA64) received December 14, 2017, pursu- Amendment 39-19079; AD 2017-21-08] (RIN: ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- 2120-AA64) received December 14, 2017, pursu- Airspace; Lemoore NAS, CA [Docket No.: 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- FAA-2017-0219; Airspace Docket No.: 17-AWP- on Transportation and Infrastructure. 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee 5] received December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 3458. A letter from the National Adjunct on Transportation and Infrastructure. U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. and Chief Executive Officer, Disabled Amer- 3442. A letter from the Management and 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on ican Veterans, transmitting the reports and Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Transportation and Infrastructure. proceedings of the 2017 National Convention Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 3450. A letter from the Management and of the Disabled American Veterans, held in ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of New Orleans, Louisiana, July 29-August 1, tives; IPECO Pilot and Co-Pilot Seats [Dock- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 2017, pursuant to 44 U.S.C. 1332; and 36 U.S.C. et No.: FAA-2017-0490; Product Identifier ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E 50308; and 36 U.S.C. 10101 (H. Doc. No. 115— 2017-NE-13-AD; Amendment 39-19082; AD 2017- Airspace; Bend, OR [Docket No.: FAA-2017- 82); to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs 22-02] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received December 14, 0391; Airspace Docket No.: 17-ANM-13] re- and ordered to be printed. 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public ceived December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 3459. A letter from the Deputy Assistant Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. Secretary, Bureau Legislative Affairs, De- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on Committee on Transportation and Infra- partment of State, transmitting a memo- Transportation and Infrastructure. structure. randum of justification regarding the sus- 3451. A letter from the Management and 3443. A letter from the Management and pension of limitations under the Jerusalem Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Embassy Act of 1995, pursuant to Public Law Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 104-45, Sec. 7(a)(1); (109 Stat. 400); jointly to ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E Airspace; Oskaloosa, IA [Docket No.: FAA- the Committees on Foreign Affairs and Ap- tives; Airbus Airplanes [Docket No.: FAA- propriations. 2017-0497; Product Identifier 2016-NM-209-AD; 2017-0296; Airspace Docket No.: 17-ACE-7] received December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 3460. A letter from the Acting Secretary, Amendment 39-19078; AD 2017-21-07] (RIN: Office for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, 2120-AA64) received December 14, 2017, pursu- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on U.S. Department of Homeland Security, ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- transmitting the Office’s Fiscal Year 2016 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee Transportation and Infrastructure. 3452. A letter from the Management and Annual Report to Congress, pursuant to 6 on Transportation and Infrastructure. Program Analyst, FAA, Department of U.S.C. 345(b); Public Law 107-296, Sec. 705; 3444. A letter from the Management and (116 Stat. 2219); jointly to the Committees on Program Analyst, FAA, Department of Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E Homeland Security and the Judiciary. Transportation, transmitting the Depart- Airspace, for Stevens Point, WI [Docket No.: ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- f FAA-2017-0143; Airspace Docket No.: 17-AGL- tives; Rockwell Collins, Inc. Traffic Surveil- 5] received December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON lance System Processing Unit [Docket No.: U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS FAA-2017-0659; Product Identifier 2017-CE- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on 014-AD; Amendment 39-19094; AD 2017-22-14] Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of Transportation and Infrastructure. (RIN: 2120-AA64) received December 14, 2017, 3453. A letter from the Management and committees were delivered to the Clerk pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law Program Analyst, FAA, Department of for printing and reference to the proper 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- calendar, as follows: mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- ment’s final rule — Establishment of Class E Mr. NUNES: Permanent Select Committee ture. Airspace; Deblois, ME [Docket No.: FAA- 3445. A letter from the Management and on Intelligence. H.R. 4478. A bill to amend 2015-2891; Airspace Docket No.: 15-ANE-1] re- the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act of Program Analyst, FAA, Department of ceived December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 1978 to improve foreign intelligence collec- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. tion and the safeguards, accountability, and ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on tives; Airbus Airplanes [Docket No.: FAA- oversight of acquisitions of foreign intel- Transportation and Infrastructure. ligence, to extend title VII of such Act, and 2017-0480; Product Identifier 2016-NM-204-AD; 3454. A letter from the Management and Amendment 39-19073; AD 2017-21-02] (RIN: for other purpose; with an amendment (Rept. Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 115–475 Pt. 1). Ordered to be printed. 2120-AA64) received December 14, 2017, pursu- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- f 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee tives; Bombardier, Inc., Airplanes [Docket PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS on Transportation and Infrastructure. No.: FAA-2017-0521; Product Identifier 2016- 3446. A letter from the Management and NM-189-AD; Amendment 39-19086; AD 2017-22- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 06] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received December 14, bills and resolutions of the following Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public titles were introduced and severally re- ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the ferred, as follows: tives; The Boeing Company Airplanes [Dock- Committee on Transportation and Infra- et No.: FAA-2017-0332; Product Identifier structure. By Mr. TAKANO: 2016-NM-164-AD; Amendment 39-19084; AD 3455. A letter from the Management and H.R. 4680. A bill to ensure due process pro- 2017-22-04] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received Decem- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of tections of individuals in the United States ber 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Transportation, transmitting the Depart- against unlawful detention based solely on a Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class E protected characteristic; to the Committee the Committee on Transportation and Infra- Airspace; Scottsboro, AL [Docket No.: FAA- on the Judiciary. structure. 2017-0557; Airspace Docket No.: 17-ASO-15] re- By Mr. ENGEL (for himself, Mr. 3447. A letter from the Management and ceived December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 KINZINGER, Mr. ROYCE of California, Program Analyst, FAA, Department of U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. and Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- Transportation, transmitting the Depart- 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on sylvania): ment’s final rule — Establishment of Class E Transportation and Infrastructure. H.R. 4681. A bill to limit assistance for Airspace; Cisco, TX [Docket No.: FAA-2017- 3456. A letter from the Management and areas of Syria controlled by the Government 0620; Airspace Docket No.: 17-ASW-10] re- Program Analyst, FAA, Department of of Syria or associated forces, and for other ceived December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 Transportation, transmitting the Depart- purposes; to the Committee on Foreign Af- U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. ment’s final rule — Airworthiness Direc- fairs, and in addition to the Committee on 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on tives; Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation Heli- Financial Services, for a period to be subse- Transportation and Infrastructure. copters [Docket No.: FAA-2017-0946; Product quently determined by the Speaker, in each 3448. A letter from the Management and Identifier 2017-SW-045-AD; Amendment 39- case for consideration of such provisions as Program Analyst, FAA, Department of 19081; AD 2017-22-01] (RIN: 2120-AA64) received fall within the jurisdiction of the committee Transportation, transmitting the Depart- December 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. concerned. ment’s final rule — Amendment of Class D 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 By Mrs. BLACKBURN (for herself, Mr. and Class E Airspace; Fort Knox, KY, and Stat. 868); to the Committee on Transpor- STIVERS, Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio, Mr. Louisville, KY [Docket No.: FAA-2016-9499; tation and Infrastructure. HUDSON, Mr. LANCE, Mr. COLLINS of Airspace Docket No.: 16-ASO-19] received De- 3457. A letter from the Management and New York, Mr. MOONEY of West Vir- cember 14, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. Program Analyst, FAA, Department of ginia, Mr. FLORES, Mr. CURTIS, Mr.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:20 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\L19DE7.000 H19DEPT1 H10246 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE December 19, 2017 NORMAN, Mr. BILIRAKIS, Mr. DUNCAN MEMORIALS Congress has the power to enact this legis- of South Carolina, Mr. CARTER of lation pursuant to the following: Georgia, Mr. CRAMER, Mr. GUTHRIE, Under clause 3 of rule XII, memorials Article 1, Section 8, Clause 7 and Mr. KNIGHT): were presented and referred as follows: By Mr. ELLISON: H.R. 4682. A bill to amend the Communica- 150. The SPEAKER presented a memorial H.R. 4686. tions Act of 1934 to ensure internet openness, of the Legislature of the State of Texas, rel- Congress has the power to enact this legis- to prohibit blocking of lawful content, appli- ative to House Concurrent Resolution No. 45, lation pursuant to the following: cations, services, and non-harmful devices, urging the United States Congress to bestow Article I, Section 8, Clause 3: To regulate to prohibit impairment or degradation of on Doris ‘‘Dorie’’ Miller the Congressional Commerce with foreign Nations, and among lawful internet traffic, to limit the authority Medal of Honor; to the Committee on Armed the several States, and with the Indian of the Federal Communications Commission Services. Tribes; and to preempt State law with respect to 151. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of By Mr. LAWSON of Florida: internet openness obligations, to provide the State of Texas, relative to House Concur- H.R. 4687. that broadband internet access service shall rent Resolution No. 106, expressing support Congress has the power to enact this legis- be considered to be an information service, for the development and construction of a lation pursuant to the following: and for other purposes; to the Committee on coastal barrier to protect the Gulf Coast re- ‘‘Article 1, Section 8: To make all Laws Energy and Commerce. gion of Texas from storm surges; to the Com- which shall be necessary and proper for car- By Mr. REICHERT (for himself, Ms. mittee on Transportation and Infrastruc- rying into Execution the foregoing Powers, DELBENE, Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS, ture. and all other Powers vested by this Constitu- Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, and Mrs. 152. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of tion in the Government of the United States, WATSON COLEMAN): the State of Michigan, relative to Senate or in any Department or Officer thereof.’’ Concurrent Resolution No. 7, supporting the By Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM H.R. 4683. A bill to amend title XVIII of the recommendations of the United States Army of New Mexico: Social Security Act to revise the NTAP pe- Corps of Engineers to prevent Asian and H.R. 4688. riod under the Medicare inpatient prospec- other invasive carp from entering the Great Congress has the power to enact this legis- tive payment system and the pass-through Lakes; to the Committee on Transportation lation pursuant to the following: period under the Medicare outpatient pro- and Infrastructure. Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the United spective payment system; to the Committee 153. Also, a memorial of the Legislature of States Constitution. on Ways and Means, and in addition to the the State of Texas, relative to House Concur- By Mr. SMITH of Nebraska: Committee on Energy and Commerce, for a rent Resolution No. 59, urging the Congress H.R. 4689. period to be subsequently determined by the of the United States to pass a budget; jointly Congress has the power to enact this legis- Speaker, in each case for consideration of to the Committees on Appropriations and lation pursuant to the following: such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- Oversight and Government Reform. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 18 tion of the committee concerned. By Ms. JUDY CHU of California (for f f herself, Mrs. MURPHY of Florida, Mrs. CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY ADDITIONAL SPONSORS BUSTOS, Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas, Mr. STATEMENT RUIZ, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors New York, Ms. FRANKEL of Florida, Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of were added to public bills and resolu- Mrs. MIMI WALTERS of California, Ms. the Rules of the House of Representa- tions, as follows: KUSTER of New Hampshire, and Mr. tives, the following statements are sub- H.R. 130: Mr. RUIZ. BILIRAKIS): mitted regarding the specific powers H.R. 131: Mr. RUIZ. H.R. 4684. A bill to direct the Secretary of granted to Congress in the Constitu- H.R. 203: Mr. CAPUANO. Health and Human Services, acting through tion to enact the accompanying bill or H.R. 291: Mr. BIGGS. the Director of the Center for Substance joint resolution. H.R. 431: Mr. CAPUANO. Abuse Treatment of the Substance Abuse By Mr. TAKANO: H.R. 449: Mr. FASO. and Mental Health Services Administration, H.R. 4680. H.R. 548: Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. to publish and disseminate best practices for Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 559: Mr. BANKS of Indiana. operating a recovery housing, and for other lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 631: Mr. EMMER. purposes; to the Committee on Energy and Article I, Section 8, Clause 18. H.R. 719: Mr. SCHWEIKERT, Mr. HOLDING, Commerce. By Mr. ENGEL: and Mr. JORDAN. By Mr. CICILLINE (for himself and Mr. H.R. 4681. H.R. 757: Ms. BONAMICI. LANGEVIN): Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 788: Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. H.R. 4685. A bill to designate the facility of lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 850: Mr. HOLDING, Mr. NORMAN, and the United States Postal Service located at Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the Con- Mr. WILLIAMS. 515 Hope Street in Bristol, Rhode Island, as stitution H.R. 930: Mr. GRAVES of Georgia. the ‘‘First Sergeant P. Andrew McKenna Jr. By Mrs. BLACKBURN: H.R. 1040: Mr. SANFORD. Post Office’’; to the Committee on Oversight H.R. 4682. H.R. 1178: Mr. BISHOP of Michigan and Mr. and Government Reform. Congress has the power to enact this legis- JOHNSON of Louisiana. By Mr. ELLISON (for himself, Ms. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 1192: Mr. WEBER of Texas, Mr. ROKITA, JAYAPAL, Mr. POCAN, and Mr. Article I, Section 8 ‘‘necessary and proper’’ and Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana. CICILLINE): clause. H.R. 1204: Mr. GRAVES of Georgia. H.R. 4686. A bill to establish the National By Mr. REICHERT: H.R. 1212: Mr. QUIGLEY. Commission on Economic Concentration to H.R. 4683. H.R. 1456: Mrs. DEMINGS and Mr. FASO. study the effects of economic concentration Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1478: Mr. MCGOVERN and Mr. PRICE of on competition, and for other purposes; to lation pursuant to the following: North Carolina. the Committee on the Judiciary. ‘‘The constitutional authority of Congress H.R. 1494: Mr. LARSEN of Washington and By Mr. LAWSON of Florida: to enact this legislation is provided by Arti- Ms. ESHOO. cle I, section 8 of the United States Constitu- H.R. 1587: Mr. LIPINSKI. H.R. 4687. A bill to designate the health tion, specifically clause 1 (relating to pro- H.R. 1617: Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- care center of the Department of Veterans viding for the general welfare of the United sylvania. Affairs in Tallahassee, Florida, as the Ser- States) and clause 18 (relating to the power H.R. 1651: Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. geant Ernest I. ‘‘Boots’’ Thomas VA Clinic, to make all laws necessary and proper for H.R. 1710: Mr. WALZ. and for other purposes; to the Committee on carrying out the powers vested in Congress), H.R. 1734: Mr. GRIJALVA. Veterans’ Affairs. and Article IV, section 3, clause 2 (relating H.R. 1825: Mr. GRAVES of Missouri and Mrs. By Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM to the power of Congress to dispose of and BLACK. of New Mexico: make all needful rules and regulations re- H.R. 1847: Mr. HUDSON. H.R. 4688. A bill to amend the Food Secu- specting the territory or other property be- H.R. 1865: Mr. CALVERT. rity Act of 1985 to make land grants-mer- longing to the United States).’’ H.R. 1910: Mr. PEARCE. cedes eligible for assistance, and for other By Ms. JUDY CHU of California: H.R. 1957: Mr. RUIZ. purposes; to the Committee on Agriculture. H.R. 4684. H.R. 1987: Ms. BARRAGA´ N. By Mr. SMITH of Nebraska: Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 2150: Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Ms. MENG, and H.R. 4689. A bill to authorize early repay- lation pursuant to the following: Ms. JAYAPAL. ment of obligations to the Bureau of Rec- Clause 1 of Section 8 of Article 1 of the H.R. 2193: Mr. CURTIS. lamation within the Northport Irrigation United States Constitution. H.R. 2234: Mr. LOWENTHAL. District in the State of Nebraska; to the By Mr. CICILLINE: H.R. 2276: Mr. RASKIN. Committee on Natural Resources. H.R. 4685. H.R. 2315: Mr. ISSA.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:44 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\L19DE7.100 H19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H10247

H.R. 2319: Mr. BABIN. H.R. 4068: Ms. BONAMICI. H. Res. 587: Mr. WELCH, Mrs. DAVIS of Cali- H.R. 2328: Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. H.R. 4096: Mr. CARTWRIGHT. fornia, Mr. GARAMENDI, and Mr. KHANNA. H.R. 2366: Mr. PETERS. H.R. 4143: Mr. DEUTCH. H. Res. 621: Ms. JAYAPAL. H.R. 2401: Mr. FASO. H.R. 4207: Mr. TIPTON. H. Res. 661: Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN and Mr. H.R. 2569: Mr. DESANTIS. H.R. 4209: Ms. BONAMICI. MARINO. H.R. 2591: Mr. JODY B. HICE of Georgia. H.R. 4222: Ms. PINGREE. H.R. 4238: Mr. KING of New York. H.R. 2670: Ms. GABBARD. f H.R. 2723: Mr. SCHWEIKERT and Mr. HOL- H.R. 4311: Mr. GRAVES of Georgia. LINGSWORTH. H.R. 4340: Mr. BIGGS. H.R. 2948: Mr. POLIS and Mr. KIND. H.R. 4392: Mr. SMUCKER, Mr. KIND, Mr. KIL- PETITIONS, ETC. H.R. 2995: Ms. HANABUSA and Ms. GABBARD. MER, Mr. SMITH of Washington, Mrs. LOVE, Under clause 3 of rule XII, petitions H.R. 2996: Mr. BROOKS of Alabama, Mr. Ms. JAYAPAL, Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi, and papers were laid on the clerk’s GROTHMAN, Mr. SCHWEIKERT, Mr. GOHMERT, Mr. JEFFRIES, Mr. SCHRADER, Mr. KELLY of and Mr. JORDAN. Mississippi, and Mr. JOHNSON of Louisiana. desk and referred as follows: H.R. 3033: Mr. CAPUANO. H.R. 4396: Mr. SCHNEIDER and Mr. VEASEY. 72. The SPEAKER presented a petition of H.R. 3314: Ms. SLAUGHTER. H.R. 4438: Mr. ABRAHAM. Mr. Gregory Watson, a citizen of Austin, TX, H.R. 3349: Mr. PASCRELL. H.R. 4467: Mr. MITCHELL. relative to urging Congress to propose, pur- H.R. 3350: Mr. GROTHMAN, Mr. FLORES, and H.R. 4472: Mr. STIVERS. suant to Article V, an amendment to the Mr. SHUSTER. H.R. 4516: Ms. SHEA-PORTER. United States Constitution that would, in H.R. 3513: Mr. SENSENBRENNER. H.R. 4526: Mr. GROTHMAN and Mr. BABIN. addition to congressional proposal, likewise H.R. 3542: Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. H.R. 4541: Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. HIGGINS of allow an identically-worded suggested fed- H.R. 3576: Mr. ROKITA. New York, Ms. ESTY of Connecticut, Mr. eral constitutional amendment, approved by H.R. 3711: Mr. BUCHANAN, Mr. CARTER of WALZ, Mr. POCAN, Mr. GRIJALVA, Mr. RICH- the legislatures of at least two-thirds of the Georgia, and Mr. ADERHOLT. MOND, and Mr. LEWIS of Georgia. several states, as an alternate means of pro- H.R. 3768: Mr. WALZ and Mr. MCEACHIN. H.R. 4565: Ms. PINGREE. H.R. 3828: Ms. PINGREE, Mr. LOWENTHAL, posing future amendments and that would H.R. 4608: Mr. ISSA. further provide for a same-day nationwide Mr. SMITH of Washington, and Ms. SHEA-POR- H.R. 4610: Ms. SHEA-PORTER and Mr. PRICE referendum as the exclusive method of rati- TER. of North Carolina. fying any future amendments; thus repealing H.R. 3841: Mr. ZELDIN. H.R. 4620: Mrs. BLACK and Mr. ISSA. all references to a national proposing con- H.R. 3887: Mr. DELANEY. H.R. 4622: Mr. NOLAN and Mr. CARTWRIGHT. vention, and repealing all references to rati- H.R. 4006: Mr. BILIRAKIS. H.R. 4631: Ms. SINEMA and Mr. MEEKS. H.R. 4007: Ms. BASS, Ms. BROWNLEY of Cali- H.R. 4656: Ms. BONAMICI. fying conventions conducted within the indi- fornia, Mr. CASTRO of Texas, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. H. Con. Res. 10: Mr. TIPTON. vidual states, and repealing all references to MCNERNEY, Mr. SCHNEIDER, Ms. SLAUGHTER, H. Con. Res. 45: Mr. THOMAS J. ROONEY of state legislative ratification; to the Com- and Mr. VELA. Florida and Mr. POE of Texas. mittee on the Judiciary. H.R. 4022: Ms. ADAMS, Mrs. WATSON COLE- H. Con. Res. 63: Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illi- 73. Also, a petition of the Yates County, MAN, Mr. VISCLOSKY, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mr. nois, Mr. SIRES, and Mr. HASTINGS. New York, Legislature, relative to Resolu- SWALWELL of California, Mr. LYNCH, Mr. H. Res. 245: Mr. CLAY. tion No. 317-17, urging the United States CARBAJAL, Mr. POLIS, Mr. HASTINGS, and Mr. H. Res. 252: Mr. TURNER. Congress to enact, and President Trump to BISHOP of Michigan. H. Res. 318: Mr. RASKIN. sign into law, H.R. 3576, the Second Amend- H.R. 4040: Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- H. Res. 466: Mr. HURD, Mr. DOGGETT, and ment Guarantee Act; to the Committee on sylvania. Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. the Judiciary.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:54 Mar 27, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\RECORD17\DECEMBER\H19DE7.REC H19DE7 E PL UR UM IB N U U S Congressional Record United States th of America PROCEEDINGS AND DEBATES OF THE 115 CONGRESS, FIRST SESSION

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, TUESDAY, DECEMBER 19, 2017 No. 207 Senate The Senate met at 10 a.m. and was NATIONAL DEFENSE AUTHORIZA- In addition to lower rates, middle- called to order by the President pro TION ACT FOR FISCAL YEAR class families will benefit from a stand- tempore (Mr. HATCH). 2018—MOTION TO PROCEED ard deduction that is almost double its present level and from a doubling of f Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I move to proceed to Calendar No. 165, S. the child tax credit. They will benefit PRAYER 1519. from the ability to deduct more of their medical expenses, increasing The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The fered the following prayer: their tax savings during difficult times. clerk will report the motion. Despite what opponents of the bill Let us pray. The senior assistant legislative clerk have claimed, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Eternal God, fill us with reverence read as follows: Act achieves all this while preserving for You. Help us to remember that You Motion to proceed to Calendar No. 165, S. charitable deductions and the adoption are the one from whom we borrow our 1519, a bill to authorize appropriations for tax credit. It protects the exemption heartbeats. You continue to be the fiscal year 2018 for military activities of the for university tuition benefits. A mort- source of our peace and the center of Department of Defense, for military construction, and for defense activities of the gage interest deduction remains, as our joy. May our reverential awe pro- does a deduction for State and local vide us with the foundation of true wis- Department of Energy, to prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal year, and taxes. dom. Empower our lawmakers to make for other purposes. The result is a comprehensive tax re- a positive difference in our Nation and TAX CUTS AND JOBS BILL form bill that does what we set out to world. do: take money out of Washington’s Lord, give them generous, righteous, Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, Congress is standing at the doorstep of pocket and put it back into the pockets and compassionate hearts so that they of middle-class Americans who earned will transform discord into harmony. a historic opportunity. Today the House will vote on the conference re- it. Consider a typical family of four As they turn to You in humble, fervent who earns the median family income. A port on the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, the prayer, hear our prayers, forgive our vote for the conference report is a vote most significant overhaul of our Na- sins, and heal our land. to cut their tax bill by more than $2,000 tion’s Tax Code in more than 30 years. Lord, we thank You that You will next year. never give us more to do than we can This major tax reform legislation will After a disappointing decade of stag- do with Your power. provide much needed relief to middle- nant wages and shrinking opportunity We pray in Your mighty Name. class families and small businesses and under the Obama administration, mid- Amen. will set America on a trajectory to- dle-class families are counting on Con- ward more opportunity and greater f gress to keep our promise and give prosperity. them that much needed relief. PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE After the House votes this afternoon, In addition to directly cutting taxes the Senate will begin debate and will for American families, this landmark The President pro tempore led the proceed to a vote on passage later this Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: bill will also set America on a trajec- evening. The final text of this bill is tory toward higher wages and better I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the the product of extensive open debate. It job opportunities by making our coun- United States of America, and to the Repub- is a result of dozens of hearings on tax try a better place to do business. The lic for which it stands, one nation under God, reform in recent years and an open indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Tax Cuts and Jobs Act contains a num- amendment process. Then, the House ber of provisions that will make it easi- f and the Senate joined together in a er to run and grow a small business, to RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME conference committee that carefully create jobs, and to invest right here in reconciled the two Chambers’ bills. the United States. The PRESIDING OFFICER. (Mr. Now the time has come to vote. When The bill creates new tax relief for SASSE). Under the previous order, the Senators vote for the Tax Cuts and Main Street businesses. It makes it leadership time is reserved. Jobs Act, they will be voting for a bill easier for American companies to bring f that substantially cuts taxes for mid- their earnings back home instead of dle-class families. By reducing rates, it parking that money elsewhere. It RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY will let working Americans keep more eliminates incentives to shift jobs and LEADER of their paychecks and send less of manufacturing overseas and replaces The PRESIDING OFFICER. The ma- their hard-earned money to Wash- them with new incentives to invest and jority leader is recognized. ington. expand operations here at home.

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

S8073

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:41 Dec 19, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.000 S19DEPT1 S8074 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 To make America more competitive For too long, special interests have I am honored to have a broad range in the global economy, the Tax Cuts stood in the way of responsible devel- of bipartisan support for this legisla- and Jobs Act cuts our corporate tax opment. The people of Alaska have tion. One would hope something like rate from 35 percent—one of the high- shown time and again that resource de- this would. I thank Congressman ROB est rates in the developed world—to 21 velopment can go hand in hand with WOODALL, who played a key role in percent. This is good news for workers. environmental protection, and surface helping to get this bill through the As more than 100 economists agreed in development will be limited to just one House. a recent open letter, ‘‘the question ten-thousandth of the total land in the I hope, with this bill being signed isn’t whether American workers are reserve. It is long past time to finish into law, more members of our mili- hurt by our country’s corporate tax what Congress started almost 40 years tary will be able to utilize the skills rate—it’s how badly.’’ ago and to begin reaping the benefits of they acquired while they were in the Another expert put it this way in a responsible development. military to be able to qualify for well- recent op-ed: It is ‘‘the consensus view The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will de- paying jobs in our communities. We of professional economists’’ that ‘‘low- liver historic tax relief to American continue to use our best efforts to keep ering corporate income taxes would in- families. It will help put our country faith with our veterans who have done crease the wages of workers.’’ Perhaps on a trajectory toward more innova- so much for all of us. that is why reforming the corporate tion and better paying jobs. It will re- f tax rate used to be a bipartisan goal. peal an unfair tax at the center of TAX CUTS AND JOBS BILL During the previous administration, ObamaCare and will help America prominent Democrats said they sup- achieve greater energy security. Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, the sec- ported bringing our rate in line with So this is a once-in-a-generation op- ond matter I would like to address is our competitors overseas. portunity. I want to commend the the historic vote that the House will There may be a new occupant of the work of Chairman HATCH, Chairman take today and that we will take later White House, but the need for reform ENZI, and Chairman MURKOWSKI to on this evening on the Tax Cuts and has not changed. I hope our colleagues bring it within reach. I urge all of our Jobs Act. on both sides of the aisle will support colleagues to join me in voting to ap- This bill will dramatically reduce this pro-growth, pro-worker policy. prove the conference report and com- taxes on American families and It is no wonder that job creators are plete this victory for the American incentivize the creation of new jobs. It enthusiastic about what they will be people. is a major victory for all Americans able to accomplish when tax reform be- I suggest the absence of a quorum. who want to know that Washington has comes law. I recently received a letter The PRESIDING OFFICER. The their best interests at heart. It does ex- from the chief operating officer of a clerk will call the roll. actly what we told the voters we would construction equipment dealer in my The senior assistant legislative clerk do in 2016, and it is important to keep hometown of Louisville. This is a di- proceeded to call the roll. our word. We are delivering tax reform rect quote: ‘‘We’ll hire more employees Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, I ask in a way that is real, comprehensive, and plan investments in our company unanimous consent that the order for and substantial, and we are doing it that we weren’t considering prior to the quorum call be rescinded. through what we usually refer to as the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act.’’ The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without regular order in the Senate. This bill will also help Americans by objection, it is so ordered. I know that ever since the Affordable Care Act was written in then-Demo- repealing a punitive tax at the very f heart of ObamaCare. For low- and mid- cratic Leader Harry Reid’s conference dle-income families who are suffering MORNING BUSINESS room and was brought to the floor, under the individual mandate tax—in- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under there has been a lot of concern about cluding many in my home State of the previous order, the Senate will be the way the Senate conducts its activi- Kentucky—repeal means relief. If the in a period of morning business until 12 ties. Senator MCCAIN, who unfortu- health insurance plans available under noon, with Senators permitted to nately will not be able to be with us ObamaCare are not affordable or not speak therein for up to 10 minutes today, has been a stickler for returning desirable, the blame lies with that fail- each. to regular order—by that, meaning in- ing law, not with Americans who are The majority whip. troducing a bill, having it marked up already struggling to make ends meet. f and debated in the relevant com- It is unfair and illogical to penalize mittee—in this case, in the Finance them further because ObamaCare is JOBS FOR OUR HEROES BILL Committee—then having it brought to failing to meet their needs. By erasing Mr. CORNYN. Mr. President, the the floor, where it is amended, and this individual mandate tax, we will House will pass a bill today called the then debating it until we finally pass give Americans both tax relief and Jobs for Our Heroes Act, which I hope it. Then we go to a conference com- healthcare flexibility—two things that will be quickly signed into law by the mittee with the House and reconcile ObamaCare failed to provide. President. the differences between the Senate There is one more element of this bill This bill streamlines a process by version and the House version. That is that deserves special attention. It pro- which Active-Duty military, reservists, exactly what we did with this piece of vides the Nation, and particularly the and veterans can apply for commercial legislation. people of Alaska, with a tremendous driver’s licenses. As the Presiding Offi- I have spoken at length about certain opportunity to develop the State’s cer knows, and as people may know provisions in the bill before, but I want bountiful natural resources. In 1980 generally, there is a shortage of people to make one point abundantly clear. Congress set aside a particular non- who can get a commercial driver’s li- For the American people, this rep- wilderness area within Alaska’s Na- cense and fill these well-paying jobs. resents the very best kind of Christmas tional Wildlife Refuge for potential de- This bill will also allow States to gift we can offer them—one that will velopment of its oil and gas resources. permanently waive license require- actually make their lives better and This bill is our chance to finally make ments for current servicemembers and one from which they will benefit right good on that promise, enhancing our National Guardsmen if they have mili- away. This tax reform may not bear country’s energy security and creating tary experience in driving comparable the ribbons and bows of a Christmas good-paying jobs in the process. vehicles. That way, members of the present, but the men and women who Unlocking the resources of this area military will not have to go through are trying to make ends meet will ben- will provide a boon to Alaska’s econ- the same old rigmarole twice, wherein efit from having lower taxes, bigger omy, but more broadly, it will also ad- they get trained in the military, then paychecks, and a resurgent economy vance America’s standing as an energy get out, and the civilian world ignores that will produce more jobs and better superpower, helping to cut Americans’ the fact that they had been trained and opportunities. energy costs and strengthening our na- had gotten qualified in the military. I will refer to an article that came tional security. This bill fixes that. out in January of this year which cited

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:41 Dec 19, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.002 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8075 a shocking statistic, really. The sta- 2011, that of having a bipartisan con- process and have blocked and dragged tistic is, most Americans remain one sensus formed to cut the corporate in- their feet every step along the way, misstep away from having a financial come tax rate. I know people aren’t trying to stop us from providing this crisis. Fifty-seven percent of Ameri- necessarily immediately attracted to relief, from keeping our promise to the cans don’t have enough cash on hand to the idea of cutting corporations’ taxes, American people. It seems in the proc- cover an unexpected $500 expense. but the fact is, America has the high- ess they have given up on the Amer- These findings from this CBS News re- est corporate tax rate in the industri- ican dream, they have settled for the port shed light on how many house- alized world. What that means is, it is status quo, and they are even rooting holds continue to struggle with their cheaper for businesses to move to other for failure. basic finances more than 7 years after countries, to invest in jobs there, and This bill’s final passage won’t wait the official end of the great recession to keep the money overseas that they for our Democratic colleagues to wake of 2007. A typical American household earn abroad. By reducing it to 21 per- up. We are simply determined to get still earns 2.4 percent below what it cent, as we do in this bill, we will basi- this win even without them because brought home in 1999. When people talk cally have achieved the average tax American families need more take- about less purchasing power and flat rate in the industrialized world, and we home pay, they need higher wages, wages, that is what they are talking will move from a worldwide tax system they need greater job opportunities, about. to a territorial one. This really is a bi- and they need a competitive economy At the same time, we know costs for partisan consensus move. and the benefits it brings. American essentials, such as housing and When our Democratic friends criti- families should not have to settle for childcare, have surged faster than the cize us for corporate giveaways, we are anything less, and we will make sure rate of inflation, which puts even more embracing the very same reforms they they don’t. stress on these household budgets. have advocated in the past, whether it There is one more aspect of the bill I That is one of the reasons we will pass is President Obama, Democratic leader want to bring up. Our tax reform plan this conference report later on this Senator SCHUMER, or the ranking mem- strengthens our long-term energy secu- evening—because we believe these fam- ber of the Senate Finance Committee, rity by opening up an area in Alaska to ilies deserve to keep more of what they Senator WYDEN. All of them have advo- responsible energy development. At the earn so as to make sure they don’t go cated reducing the corporate tax rate invitation of Senator MURKOWSKI, I into debt when they suffer an unex- and making our corporate business tax traveled to the North Slope of Alaska pected financial expense of $500, like more competitive because they recog- about a year or so ago, and I am the 57 percent of the respondents to the nize, as we all recognize, the fact that amazed at the technology they were poll said they would, which was re- the status quo kills jobs and encour- able to deploy in extracting oil from ported by CBS News. That is why it is ages businesses to move overseas. We the North Slope. They literally have a big deal. want to grow jobs in America, along ice roads that don’t exist except during For example, a typical family of four with investment, and encourage those the coldest part of the year in order to who earns the median family income of protect the environment and allow $73,000 a year will receive a tax cut of businesses to come back home. I daresay that all Americans from equipment to travel overland. Thanks $2,058, which is a reduction of nearly 58 every walk of life will benefit from this to directional drilling, they are able to percent. Now, that may not seem like a stimulus to our economy. Janet Yellin, occupy basically a very small footprint big deal inside the beltway, but to who was last appointed Chairman of and literally drill hundreds of wells in those families who are living paycheck the Federal Reserve by Barack Obama, a multitude of different directions and to paycheck and who cannot deal with said that in part as a result of this tax pump the energy from that location. It unexpected financial expenses, this will package, the Federal Reserve has creates jobs, it creates wealth, and it help them in a real and meaningful helps create energy security for the raised its projection on growth of the way. people of Alaska and for the United U.S. economy from 2.1 percent next Consider the single mother—or fa- States. ther, for that matter—with one child year to 2.5 percent—four-tenths of 1 I come from a State with a huge en- and an annual income of $41,000. That percent. That is a big deal. ergy presence, and I understand the im- Every American will feel the benefit parent, that family, will receive a tax portance of developing our natural re- of that economic growth in terms of cut of $1,304.50, which is a reduction of sources responsibly. Limited develop- the wages they earn, the opportunities nearly 73 percent. This may be shock- ment with modern technologies will they have, and their ability to protect ing news to most people who are listen- not ruin this area, as some of the crit- themselves against unexpected finan- ing because all they have heard about ics have charged, because a very small cial expenses, as I mentioned earlier. is what is bad in this bill. portion of the acreage is allowed. It There are a lot of very good things in What could someone do with $2,600 more in their paycheck? Well, you will provide jobs. this bill, but it could have been made Let’s not forget why we are doing could install concrete countertops or better if our Democratic colleagues this. One reason we are increasing our laminate flooring in your house. When had worked with us rather than re- domestic energy production is because it comes to a cell phone—everybody sisted us at every step along the way. I we want to make ourselves less depend- seems to have a cell phone—you can guess they are satisfied with the status ent on foreign energy sources. It also pay your cell phone expense for 21⁄2 quo—the fact that purchasing power helps lower the price at the pump for years. You can go online at a Texas for the average family is actually 2.4 millions of hard-working Americans. percent below what it was in 1999. The college and pay for your education for So I can’t wait to vote on this bill message I would like to convey is, we a full year. You can breathe a little bit later today, and I can’t wait to hand- are not satisfied with the status quo. easier in Dallas by having enough deliver to the President’s desk this im- We think life can be better, and one money to pay for 2 months of average portant bill this week and for him to way it will be better is to start with apartment rent. You can drive down sign it into law. We will all benefit letting people keep more of what they Interstate Highway 35 in Texas, know- 1 from passage of this Tax Cuts and Jobs earn. ing that almost 5 ⁄2 months of an aver- Act. For a married small business owner age car payment is taken care of. If I yield the floor. with an income of $100,000, he will re- you need a little dental work done, you I suggest the absence of a quorum. ceive a tax cut of $2,603.50, which is a can go to your dentist for a little tune- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The reduction of nearly 24 percent. So you up and pay for that out of the savings clerk will call the roll. can see, across all incomes and among you will achieve as a result of this bill. The senior assistant legislative clerk people in very different circumstances, Stories like these, stories of how proceeded to call the roll. each of them will benefit from the bill busy, hard-working and multitasking Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask we will pass tonight and send to the Americans will benefit from our plan, unanimous consent that the order for President. simply leave me with confusion as to the quorum call be rescinded. This bill also does something for why our Democratic colleagues have The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without which Barack Obama had argued in simply refused to participate in this objection, it is so ordered.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:41 Dec 19, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.004 S19DEPT1 S8076 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 DACA they really cared about America, what There are people who want to get Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, yester- more could they do then to put their this fixed, Republicans and Democrats. day I went to Benito Juarez high lives on the line? They have done it, 900 We need to come together and get this school in Chicago, in the southwest of them. When DACA goes away on done. There is no excuse for delay. We part of the city, in the Pilsen neighbor- March 5 of next year, they have to know what needs to be done. We need hood. It has a predominantly Mexican- leave the military service. That is the to give these young people a chance. American enrollment at this high end of their opportunity to serve Amer- I introduced the DREAM Act 16 years school. It is one of my favorites. I have ica. Many of them are in the military ago here in the Senate, and the been there time and again for so many because they bring special skills and DREAM Act said to these young peo- different events. It is full of life and special capacities to lead. We will lose ple: We are going to put you on a path full of some amazing young students them. to legalization and a path to citizen- and some great teachers and a great It will mean that 20,000 of these ship. It won’t be easy, and it won’t be principal, Mr. Ocon. I was there 2 DACA-protected young people, when it quick, and you will have to show us weeks ago for a mariachi band ensem- goes away for them, will no longer be that you can be a productive part of ble, training students across the city able to teach—20,000 teachers across America’s future, but then we will give to be musicians in the Mexican tradi- America. I met one of them yesterday, you your chance. These young people tion. There is so much life there. Katherine Galeano. Katherine, whom I grew up in the United States of Amer- But yesterday was not the happiest had met before, is a special-ed teacher. ica, pledging allegiance to that flag, occasion. It was sad and worrisome. I Her family originally came from Nica- singing our national anthem, believing met with about 20 of the students ragua. She told a heartbreaking story in their heart of hearts that this was there, all of whom have been protected about what happened 10 years ago. She home, but it really wasn’t, legally. by DACA. DACA was President was in high school. She was taking a They were undocumented and illegal in Obama’s Executive order that was shower in the morning before she was America. Now the question is, What issued in 2012. That Executive order to go to school. There was a knock on will we do to make that better, to fix said that if you were brought to the the bathroom door. Her mother was it, to come up with a just solution? United States as a child, an infant, a crying and screaming: ‘‘Come out. Some of my Republican colleagues toddler, a young person, and grew up in Come out.’’ Katherine came out to see say: Well, you have to give us more this country undocumented; if you had her father being handcuffed. They were than just fixing their problem; you no problems of any serious nature with deporting him to Nicaragua. He was have to give us some fix to our immi- the law; if you finished your education; gone. That was the last time he saw gration system. I am not against that. if you went through a criminal back- her and she saw him—10 years ago. As I was part of a group of eight Senators ground check and paid a fee, you would she told the story, she said that her who spent months together—four be protected and be able to stay in mother tried to make it as a single Democrats, four Republicans. We craft- America 2 years at a time to go to mom with her kids here in the United ed a comprehensive immigration bill, school, to work, whatever your aspira- States and finally gave up and went which I am proud of. It passed on the tions may be. back to Nicaragua, leaving Katherine floor of the Senate and was sent over Under President Obama’s Executive to raise herself, to pay her own way to the Republican House of Representa- order, 780,000 young people came for- through college, to get a teaching cer- tives where they refused to even con- ward, and the 20 I met at Benito Juarez tificate and teach special-ed in the city sider it. They would not bring it up for were among them. They got the protec- of Chicago. As of March 5 next year, a vote. It died in the Republican House. tion they needed to legally get a job. Katherine is finished teaching. It is I know this immigration system in For a lot of these young students, that over. DACA is gone. is a critical part of their lives because, When I met with these students yes- America is broken. I have talked about being undocumented, they don’t qual- terday, you can imagine what they one specific piece of it this morning, ify for any Federal assistance to go to were worried about. They are worried but there are many aspects of it that college. If they want to go to college, about themselves and their future. are broken. The Republicans have said they have to save up for it, and they They are worried about their families. to us: Do something to make our bor- have to find the money and work for They are worried about having turned ders stronger. Sign me up. I voted for the tuition and other expenses. So get- over all this information to the govern- that on the comprehensive immigra- ting a job is a very important part of ment when they signed up for DACA tion bill. Does that mean more tech- it. which can now be used against them nology, more equipment, making cer- These young people, as they went and their families. That is what they tain that it is clear that our border is through the DACA process, knew that are worried about. going to be a real border that you can- they were safe from being deported. Many of them, I am sure, reflect on not cross at will? Of course. I am pre- That is a fear which many of us can’t the fact that this could be their last pared to do that, and many Demo- even understand, but it is a real fear Christmas in the United States of crats—maybe all the Democrats— for many people in this country who America. If that seems overly dra- would join in that effort. There are are here undocumented. So for these matic, then you need to meet them and things that we can do to fix this sys- young people, they have that chance. talk to them and understand the re- tem, but what we cannot do is ignore On September 5, President Trump an- ality of their lives. That is what they it. We cannot ignore what is happening nounced he was ending the DACA pro- face. to these young people, the threat to tection program as of March 5 of next While President Trump did prospec- their future, to their families, and we year, putting an end to the protection tively eliminate the DACA Program, can’t ignore the reality that this is a these young people have. As their he issued a challenge to us. He said to basic test of who we are as Americans. DACA expires, they will be vulnerable Congress: Now do something. If I am I stand here today as the son of an to deportation. They will reach the going to eliminate this Executive immigrant mother. My mom was point where they can no longer work in order, what is Congress going to do in brought to this country when she was 2 America. the U.S. Senate and House of Rep- years old, and thank goodness my The end of DACA as we know it will resentatives? Will you pass a law to grandmother decided to put her on a dramatically change the lives of thou- deal with this challenge? boat, bring her from Lithuania to the sands of young people. It will change He said that in September, and here United States. I wouldn’t be here oth- the lives of 900 of these DACA-pro- we are in the middle of December hav- erwise. That is my story, that is my tected young people who volunteered ing done nothing—nothing—and the family’s story, and that is America’s to serve in our military—currently clock is ticking. It is a clock that story. That is who we are. I cannot serving in our military, willing to risk means an awful lot to thousands of imagine my grandmother and grand- their lives for a country that will not young people across America, including father, whom I never knew, making the give them legal status. Imagine that those at Benito Juarez high school in decision to come to a country where for a moment. If they had to prove that the city of Chicago. they didn’t even speak the language,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:41 Dec 19, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.006 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8077 giving up everything and leaving it be- Nationwide, there are 20,000 DACA on the floor, we had about 285 amend- hind in their mother country of Lith- recipients just like her. With Teach ments offered to this legislation. There uania to try a new country called the For America alone, 190 of these un- have been a lot of changes over the United States of America. That story documented students who have gone on past few weeks to include as many has been repeated millions of times, to get degrees in college are teaching good ideas as possible. After all that, it and thank goodness it has. They not in the Teach For America Program. is understandable that there may be only brought strong backs and strong Currently, they are teaching 10,000 stu- some confusion about what the legisla- minds, but they brought with them a dents across 11 States, with one-third tion does. I want to speak today about part of their DNA, which was a DNA of of them in the State of Texas. the various ways that this legislation culture, courage, and determination, In a few weeks, Congress is going to is good for hard-working Americans, and I think that is part of who we are face the reality of this DACA provision like the people in my home State of as Americans—and proud to be. by President Trump coming into full Wyoming. Let me tell you the story of one of effect. As of that day, she and others First, most people are going to pay these Dreamers, as I call them, or like her will start the clock ticking to lower tax rates. For a couple who DACA young people. All of my speeches lose their jobs, be legally unemploy- makes between $19,000 and $77,000 a notwithstanding, these stories tell able in America. year, the rates are going to drop from more about this situation than any- Christmas is a special time of year 15 percent to 12 percent. So a family thing I could possibly say. This is for every family of Christian faith and might see their tax bill drop by more Maria Rocha. I have told stories of those who observe it. It is a special than $1,000 just from this one part of Dreamers on the floor; she is 101, I be- time of year for my family. The real the Republican tax relief plan alone. lieve, of the list that I have given. She question though is, Can we leave this The second thing I want to point out came to the United States at the age of week, ignoring this issue? Can we go is that this legislation roughly doubles 3, brought from Mexico. Maria grew up home and enjoy our Christmas without the standard deduction. It goes up to in a rural town called Stonewall, TX. thinking for a moment of how young $12,000 for a single person who files and Her fondest memories of growing up in people like Maria may be facing their then to $24,000 for a married couple. the Texas Hill Country include hay- last Christmas in the United States of Well, that is double. People will not stack jumping, armadillo chasing, and America? That is the reality of what have to pay Federal income tax on all fishing in a lake. Later in her child- she faces. So why don’t we face this of that money—none of it at all. It is a hood, Maria’s family moved to San An- issue? standard deduction of $24,000 for a fam- tonio. Maria was a very good student. This is an empty Senate Chamber, ily. So if we combine that with the She graduated from high school twelfth which is usually the case, unfortu- lower rates—the lower rates and the in her class. She played varsity soccer. nately. I wish it were filled—filled with higher deduction—it is even more She was recognized as a San Antonio a healthy, fulsome debate on this issue. money that people are going to be able Scholar Athlete of the Week during her Let’s have our disagreements, bring to keep of their own money. Instead of junior year. At the same time, as she them out. Let’s work out our com- having Washington spend it, they can was going to school and playing soccer, promises. Let’s do something that is spend it. They are not going to be send- she was working a job to help support really radical around here. Let’s come ing it to Washington for someone else herself and her family. together and legislate—Democrats and to spend it. Maria was accepted at the University Republicans. Let’s solve this problem. Mr. President, you know as well as I of Texas at San Antonio. While en- That is why we were elected, not to do that people are much better deciders rolled as a full-time student, she kept collect a paycheck and build a pension about how their money ought to be right on working. In fact, she juggled but to solve the problems facing Amer- spent, and they get a better value for three different jobs. She was a house- ica. This one is real, it is timely, and it their money than when they send it to keeper, a babysitter, and a personal as- is now. Washington for Washington to spend it, sistant. She had to come up with Maria Rocha and 780,000 other young supposedly on their behalf. It is not $40,000 out of pocket to pay for college people are counting on us to do some- only that. Their taxes might be a lot education. She didn’t qualify for any thing. Let’s not come up with excuses. simpler to figure out come April 15. We Federal assistance because of her im- Let’s come up with answers. have lower rates, a higher standard de- migration status. So these young stu- I yield the floor and suggest the ab- duction, and now it is simpler to figure dents in college are working harder sence of a quorum. out on April 15. than many others just to make sure The PRESIDING OFFICER. The A lot of people are looking around they succeed. clerk will call the roll. trying to find deductions they can take In May of 2012, she graduated with a The senior assistant legislative clerk and save a little money on their taxes. degree in interdisciplinary studies. proceeded to call the roll. We have seen that for years—ways to After graduation, she decided to enter Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I ask find additional deductions. People save a program known as Teach For Amer- unanimous consent that the order for the receipts. Then they look at the re- ica. Almost everyone knows about this the quorum call be rescinded. ceipts. They go through the box and program, but they should know that The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. find out what they spent, and how this is a program in which college grad- STRANGE). Without objection, it is so much they spent. They gather up their uates volunteer to teach in some of the ordered. receipts and fill out extra forms. most challenging schools across Amer- f Under this tax relief plan, they can ica. Maria was one of those. choose just to take this much higher Today, Maria continues her career as TAX CUTS AND JOBS BILL standard deduction and not have to a teacher. She teaches third grade in Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, as I spend all that additional time looking her hometown of San Antonio, TX. At come to the floor today, the Senate is through the shoe box of receipts trying the same time, she is pursuing a grad- approaching one of our most important to find something they may have uate degree in education, once again votes, really, in years. The tax relief spent. This is going to make tax filing with no Federal assistance, no Federal legislation that we will be voting on a whole lot simpler for lots of Ameri- loans. Without DACA, Maria would not will be, I believe, great for America, cans. be able to work and could be deported great for the American people, and it How many people are going to benefit immediately. When asked what would will do a lot for the future of our great from this? Today about 70 percent of happen to her without DACA protec- country. It has been a long process. people who fill out their tax form tion, which President Trump elimi- There has been a lot of discussion, and choose the standard deduction. Under nated as of March 5 next year, Maria there has been years of preparation this plan, which doubles the standard only thinks of her students. Here is waiting for today’s vote. deduction, we expect that maybe even what she said: How are my students The Finance Committee has held more than 9 out of 10 Americans are going to take it? What is going to hap- over 70 hearings on the subject over the going to be able to use this simplified pen to them? That is what scares me. last 6 years. When we were debating it way of filling out the tax forms. They

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:41 Dec 19, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.007 S19DEPT1 S8078 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 are going to see that it is really a good That brings me to another way that terms of ways she can then grow the deal for them personally, individually, this tax relief legislation is going to government. for them and their families. save a lot of people money. The Repub- Republicans look at this and say: Millions of people are going to save lican plan effectively repeals—elimi- How can we give people more freedom? money and have an easier time filling nates—the ObamaCare individual man- That is what this legislation does. It out their tax form—their tax return— date tax. This was the outrageous tax is very simple. and they will save money. In the past, penalty that made ObamaCare a man- I yield the floor. they had to pay somebody to prepare datory program by sending the IRS The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- their taxes for them. They will not after someone if they didn’t have ator from Connecticut. have to save the receipts and fill out Washington-approved health insurance. the extra forms, and they will not have You had to pay a tax. You had to pay f to worry that they are going to be au- a fine. People knew it was unpopular. TRAIN CRASH IN TACOMA, WASH- dited by the IRS for trying to keep It didn’t matter to President Obama INGTON, AND REPUBLICAN TAX more of their hard-earned money. They and the Democrats. They took it all PLAN will be able to keep more of their the way to the Supreme Court to force money and use their time doing some- people to pay a fine, a tax—to force Mr. BLUMENTHAL. Mr. President, a thing else that they actually enjoy them to buy ObamaCare health insur- tax bill is a fiscal document. It is a doing instead of filling out forms and ance, even though it wasn’t right for legal document. It is also a moral docu- sending money to the Federal Govern- them or their family and they couldn’t ment. It involves choices, much as we ment. afford it. make choices as families when we own That is another way Democrats are It didn’t matter to the Democrats or a car that is unsafe or a house that has trying to confuse people. They want President Obama. Oh no, you have to a front step that is about to collapse or people to think tax relief is somehow buy it. The insurance is too expensive. when a college student needs money to taking away options. It is actually giv- If you can’t buy it, if you can’t afford pursue her education. A family can ing them more options. That is what it, tough, pay the tax. make choices. A parent can go to the we are seeing here. It is expanding the We are eliminating that tax com- casino and gamble and lose the money standard deduction that a lot of people pletely. In my home State of Wyoming, or spend it on luxuries that are unnec- already use, and many more people will over 16,000 people ended up hit with essary or unwise, and nations make be able to use it under the Republican that fine, hit with that tax. Over $6 those kinds of moral choices as well. plan. million was collected from the fine This tax document is a moral docu- That brings me to another important people in my State who couldn’t afford ment. It involves choices. Will it make point that I want to make about this ObamaCare insurance. On average, this our country safer, rebuild our infra- tax reduction plan. We did work hard ObamaCare mandate tax is about $700. structure and our national defense or, to keep a lot of the deductions that are The legislation says that tax will, in instead, in effect, squander resources of important to some Americans. In some the future, be zero. It takes ObamaCare $1.5 trillion or more on a giveaway to cases, we even made them better. For from being a mandatory program to the very wealthiest in our country? It people who still come out ahead by turning it into a voluntary program. relates directly to the tragedy that itemizing their deductions—and there More than 6 million people paid that this Nation experienced outside of Ta- certainly will be some—there is an- coma, WA, just yesterday. other way that they can keep more of tax in the United States this past year. These people will now get a tax break. I want to extend, first of all, my their money. People can still take a de- thoughts and prayers to those families duction if they donate to charity. Peo- Under the Republicans, they will see this, and it will affect their lives and and loved ones who have suffered ple can still save money on their re- losses. The three deaths and injuries tirement savings through an IRA or a give them more money to spend. It doesn’t take away anyone’s insur- have taken their toll emotionally as retirement plan at work. well as physically. In these dark days, If someone has children, we actually ance, as Democrats have claimed. It we are demanding answers. double the tax credit they get to $2,000 just says that nobody should have to Unfortunately, the National Trans- per child. They don’t even have to pay an extra tax just because they deportation Safety Board is there, begin- itemize their taxes to get that $2,000 cide that overpriced ObamaCare insur- ning its investigation. We know now per child tax credit. It is just a straight ance isn’t right for them. that the train apparently was traveling tax cut on top of the other cuts they So those are just some of the ways three times the limit on speed, 80 miles get under this Republican plan. They this Republican tax plan legislation is still get to set up an account to save good for Americans. It saves people an hour in a 30-mile-an-hour zone. That for their children’s education, if they money. It saves them time. It gives fact is absolutely stunning and scan- like. them more freedom. Together, it is dalous, and the NTSB, no doubt, will For people who have high medical ex- about $1.5 trillion in tax savings over present its results after its investiga- penses, this tax relief plan actually the next 10 years. It is money that fam- tion. saves them more money on their taxes ilies, small businesses, and large em- I call on the NTSB to finish that in- than the old way. Republicans under- ployers will not have to send to Wash- vestigation as promptly and quickly as stand that medical costs remain out of ington. They can use the money any possible. As responsible an agency as it control in this country. There were a way they want. is, it often works much more slowly lot of policies that the Democrats and It is interesting. Last week NANCY than taxpayers deserve. I call on it to President Obama put in place that PELOSI was talking about this Repub- produce its investigation, not in raised the cost of medical care for peo- lican tax relief plan. She said: months or years but in days or weeks. ple all across the country. Republicans This is who they are. This is what they We need to know the answers as to why are working hard at getting rid of came here to do. this catastrophe occurred. We now those policies and bringing down the She probably meant it as an insult, know with certainty, apparently, that cost of care across the country. Until but she stumbled upon the real dif- the train was traveling too fast. we get that completely done, this tax ference between Republicans and You may be forgiven for thinking it relief plan makes it easier for people to Democrats like herself. Republicans seems like deja vu. Didn’t that happen deduct their higher medical costs. believe in cutting people’s taxes and also in Spuyten Duyvil, where four peo- So today someone can get tax relief letting people keep more of their hard- ple were lost? Didn’t it happen in if their medical expenses are more than earned money, because we believe Philadelphia, where eight were killed 10 percent of their income, under the hard-working Americans should be able in 2015? Yes, again, three people were old law. We drop that threshold to 7.5 to make the decisions about what killed yesterday. percent so that more people will qual- money they save or they spend or they Three hundred people have been ify. That gives people additional relief invest. It is their money. It is not the killed in these accidents since 1970, while we keep working on ways to re- government’s money, which is the way when the NTSB first recommended duce the cost of care. NANCY PELOSI looks at all of this in impementing this new technology. It

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:41 Dec 19, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.009 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8079 was new technology in 1970 called posi- This legislation will put America in man of the Joint Chiefs of Staff to say tive train control. Now it is old tech- debt by $1.5 trillion. That is a moral that the biggest threat to our national nology, but it still has not been in- choice because it shifts the burden of security is our national debt—how stalled in many of the Nation’s rail- tax breaks and giveaways now to fu- could that be? Well, having watched roads. The deadline for installing it ture generations. It also deprives us the National Defense Authorization was postponed from 2015—over my ve- right now of funds that could be ap- Act year after year, constrained by re- hement protests and those of others on plied to infrastructure—rebuilding sources that are now going to be less our side of the aisle in the Commerce roads and bridges. available because of this $1.5 trillion Committee and on the floor of the U.S. Lest you think the Connecticut situ- debt—and larger, probably—that is cre- Senate—until 2018. Even now, the rail- ation is an anomaly or an exception, ated by this tax plan, I better under- roads are seeking an extension to that the grade for our Nation as a whole in stand what he meant. time, saying that the resources aren’t infrastructure is a resounding D-plus. The Republicans are essentially pur- available. I know this may seem to many of my suing two inherently irreconcilable ob- Well, the costs of those 300 lives lost colleagues like an oversimplification. jectives. The chairman of the Senate and of the crashes that have resulted Yes, it is, but it is an oversimplifica- Armed Services Committee, a man from derailments and other kinds of tion with real facts that support it and whom I respect as much as anybody in very severe mishaps due to excessive with real consequences to the Amer- this Chamber, has called for an addi- speed are way in excess of the costs of ican people. tional $430 billion over the next 5 years installing positive train control since When the President of the United to build up our military and rebuild it. 1970, since 2015, and if it is postponed States suggests in a tweet, as he did I can tell you without doubt that there again, the costs will exceed the ex- yesterday after the Tacoma tragedy, is no way to increase defense spending penses that we saw in the system. that his infrastructure program will be by $86 billion every year, as the chair- It is available now. It is fully ready ready ‘‘soon,’’ that is ducking responsi- man has said we need, while slashing for installation on railroads across the bility. It is a moral choice because Federal revenue $150 billion every year. country. The resources aren’t pre- ‘‘soon’’ has meant delays, month after The math fails. It will not work. venting its installation; it is the will month, into the first year of his Presi- So for my Republican colleagues to and determination to do so. dency. He can take action today. He say that we need to rebuild, we need to The failure of Federal authorities to can disavow this shameful program invest in our national defense and in require and provide support for positive that he has supported—the tax cut that our military and in the skill training train control is a moral choice this Na- slashes resources for the Federal Gov- of our warriors is a fiction. It is bla- tion has made. It is not only about dol- ernment—and, instead, decide that in- tant deception, and it is a disservice to lars and cents; it is about basic moral vestment is the right course—invest- the brave men and women who have en- choices, and those choices are a factor ment in roads, bridges, rail, broadband, listed and serve us in uniform now and in those three deaths outside of Ta- VA facilities, ports, and airports. That others who will join them in the fu- coma, WA. We know excessive speed is a moral choice that this tax scam ture. We cannot have the most ad- was a factor. We know positive train makes. vanced and strongest military in the control slows down trains when they It is a tax scam with moral con- world if we use the same tax code as are going too fast in zones where the sequences in terms of inequality in this the Cayman Islands. limit is 30 miles an hour rather than Nation. It tilts the benefits in favor of This year, our country experienced a the 80 miles an hour that this train was corporations and the wealthiest who tragic loss of life—in fact, the loss of traveling. Regardless of driver fatigue will receive permanent tax cuts. It will more than life, needlessly, preventably. or distraction, regardless of any of the hurt working families, students, public Seventeen sailors perished on the USS other contributing sources, positive schools, firefighters, police officers, John S. McCain and the USS Fitzgerald. train control is there to stop or slow local government, and sick people, who Two of them were from Connecticut. I down trains when human error may will receive nothing but crumbs by attended ceremonies in their honor. lead to crashes. comparison. Those deaths are largely attributable The new deadline is now 1 year away. It will desperately hurt States like to a lack of resources. There may have If we do nothing else in this Congress, Connecticut. Our State and local taxes been other causes, but this tax bill is a let us insist that this deadline be met will no longer be deductible above set moral choice about our military. The without additional delay. Our failure limits; $10,000 will barely cover and, in failure to invest in those ships, in the to do so would be a moral failure. fact, will fail to cover many, many of training and necessary rest that is re- The dollars and cents required to in- the tax bills that formerly could be de- quired for our men and women in those stall positive train control and to re- ducted. It will impose limits on mort- positions, will be aggravated by the pair our aging and decrepit roads and gage interest deductions that will debt we see here. bridges involve investment. harm our real estate industry in Con- Our national security is more than To show you what is happening in necticut and many other States across just military spending in the face of Connecticut, very much like the rest of the country. Russian cyber attacks in our elections, the country, we know that 78 percent Yes, there are crumbs and sweet- horrific hurricanes hitting Puerto Rico of our roads are in poor or mediocre eners, and they are temporary. They and Texas and Florida, and fires still condition. That is a moral choice, not pale in comparison to the tremendous burning in Western States. We know just a physical choice. It has the same benefits that will go to corporations our military alone is not enough to kinds of consequences as failure to in- and the wealthiest. keep us safe and secure. Those natural stall positive train control. The cost It narrows our tax base, shifting the disasters and those challenges from our per motorist annually is $864, which is burden, in fact, from corporations to adversaries require investment as well, needed for vehicle repairs from driving individuals. It makes the Tax Code and, again, the loss of this $1.5 trillion on roads that are in disrepair. more complicated, not less so. It gross- to debt that will be paid largely by fu- Now, as a result of this so-called tax ly increases inequality, and it steals ture generations is something that cut, a lot of people in Connecticut are $1.5 trillion from our children and from hobbles our ability to make our Nation going to, perhaps, see a few crumbs, a us insofar as it deprives our national safe and secure. few sweeteners—very minor deductions defense, as well as our infrastructure, This tax scam is morally reprehen- in their tax bill. It is nowhere near the of resources that are needed. sible. It cuts taxes for the wealthiest $864 that they are now paying because I am a member of the Armed Services while jeopardizing programs that are of inadequate roads and bridges. That Committee, and I remember very well essential to the safety and security of is a hidden cost. It is a moral choice the former Chairman of the Joint many in our Nation who are most vul- because it not only creates costs in ve- Chiefs of Staff, Mike Mullen, saying, nerable. hicle wear and tear, it also leads to ‘‘The most significant threat to our na- Under current law, the GOP tax plan crashes that, in turn, take lives and tional security is our debt,’’ which sur- will trigger $25 billion in Medicare cuts cause injury. prised me at the time. For the Chair- next year alone. With this self-inflicted

VerDate Sep 11 2014 23:41 Dec 19, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.010 S19DEPT1 S8080 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 $1.5 trillion hole in our Federal deficit, Thank you. lieve in brotherhood—if we really do we know what will come next: savage I yield the floor. believe that our role as U.S. Senators attacks on Social Security as well as The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- is to try to lift people up around us— Medicaid and Medicare. This assault on ator from Connecticut. then we need to understand that the healthcare doesn’t end with these pro- f debates around health center funding grams. The repeal of the Affordable HEALTHCARE AND DACA or the Children’s Health Insurance Pro- Care Act’s individual mandate will gram or the status of children who raise premiums and eventually lead to Mr. MURPHY. Mr. President, when were brought here by their parents at a $13 million—13 million—more unin- you are the father of a 9-year-old and a very young age from another country sured Americans. 6-year-old during the holiday season, aren’t about politics. They are not Republicans are sabotaging these you spend an awful lot of time reading about scoring political points. They are holiday stories, you spend an awful lot critical programs that provide care to about people and what we will do to of time watching Christmas specials the most vulnerable Americans so people as we head into the holiday sea- and Christmas movies on TV, and it is those at the top can avoid paying their son. fair share. wonderful. I love it. I love getting to Adrianna Bigard is a single mom What corporations benefit the most? relive my childhood through the eyes from Hamden, CT. For her, the CHIP There is a very simple answer. The of my kids. program has been a lifesaver. She is If you remember all of these stories ones that benefit the most with foreign doing everything we would ask a young and specials, there is a familiar theme cash that will be distributed almost woman to do. She received her master’s that runs through them, and it is a certainly to their shareholders and to degree in public relations from really nice theme for kids to hear. The their CEOs are listed right here. In the Quinnipiac University. She is now basic idea in many of these stories is red is the foreign cash, and the total is working as a public relations spe- that Christmas, Hanukkah, the holi- listed as well. They are the ones who cialist. She has a young son—a 6-year- days we celebrate today, aren’t about are going to benefit. Apple has been old, Carter—and she is a single mom. pageantry, and they aren’t about pomp singled out as the single largest bene- She gets a paycheck every week, but it and circumstance or the presents or ficiary, but many other corporations goes out as quickly as it comes in. She material things; it is really about cele- around the country will benefit as well. is one of the millions of Americans who brating each other. It is about sort of The picture that I think was most are working, who are playing by the understanding what is important to us powerful in assessing how these cor- rules but are living paycheck to pay- and who is important to us and using porations will use this money occurred check. when the President’s chief economic this little break we get at the end of She gets insurance through her em- adviser asked a room of CEOs: How the year to spend time with each other. ployer, but when she was told how My youngest’s favorite of all of these many of you will spend these addi- much it would cost to add her son to stories and specials is the iconic Doc- tional resources on creating jobs? her coverage, she simply could not af- tor Seuss poem about the Grinch. It There were no more than a few hands ford it. She literally did not have the ends like this: raised in that room. This money will money in her monthly paycheck to be go to shareholders. He hadn’t stopped Christmas from coming! It able to pay for gas and for groceries, came! These corporations have zero incen- for rent and for coverage for her son. tive to provide new jobs if there is no Somehow or another it came just the same! And the Grinch, with his Grinch-feet ice-cold So the CHIP program was a lifesaver increase in demand and sales. The fail- in the snow, stood puzzling and puz- for her. ure to provide real tax cuts—real bene- zling: ‘‘How could it be so?’’ Her son now is enrolled in what we fits to middle-class families and to our ‘‘It came without ribbons! It came without call HUSKY B in Connecticut, which is working families—means that sales tags!’’ the name we use for our CHIP program. and demand will not lead to more jobs ‘‘It came without packages, boxes or bags!’’ Without it, she says, things would dra- because there will be no increase in de- And he puzzled three hours, ’til his puzzler matically change. If HUSKY goes mand with the crumbs and pittance tax was sore. away—if CHIP goes away—once all cuts that are complicated. Then the Grinch thought of something he hadn’t before! benefits, taxes, et cetera, are paid, I So Republicans, let me say finally, ‘‘Maybe Christmas,’’ he thought, ‘‘doesn’t will not have enough money left in my are borrowing $1.5 trillion, and they come from a store.’’ paycheck to pay my rent. are putting it on a credit card. ‘‘Maybe Christmas, perhaps, means a little That is what is consuming her this Sometimes pictures are worth a bit more!’’ holiday season. thousand words. Here is the ‘‘American Maybe it is the most famous of all of She just got a notice from the State Excess’’ tax scam card. It will not buy the passages from Christmas stories ex- of Connecticut telling her that on Jan- you much because it is debt. With sin- plaining that premise; that this time of uary 31, her son Carter will lose cere apologies to American Express, the year is a time in which we think healthcare insurance, meaning on Jan- the ‘‘American Excess’’ tax scam card about each other. uary 31, Adrianna will not have enough can be used by our children—my chil- I hope we do that in the Senate and money to pay for her rent or she will dren and your children—as a symbol of in the House over the coming days be- have to leave her son uninsured. That what they are losing in opportunity fore we wrap up for the year because as will be her choice come January 31. costs, including the roads and bridges we approach the Christmas season and That is a pretty terrible, awful way for and rail that remain unrepaired; the as creatures of good fortune—those of her to spend her holiday season. new schools and airports that are un- us who get to serve in the U.S. Sen- In northeastern Connecticut, I heard built; the national defense that be- ate—as we begin to prepare to go home from a woman who works in homeless- comes far less adequate because the in- and share time with our family and our ness, and she was telling an inspiring vestment can’t be made; the govern- loved ones, we need to think about the story of a gentleman who had been liv- ment programs, whether it is Medicare, crisis many families are in today and ing the last 3 months in a tent and suf- Social Security, Medicaid that are in will be in over the holiday season if we fering deeply from severe joint pain, fe- peril—deeply in jeopardy because of don’t choose to do some basic things vers, and weakness, and had no access this tax scam—and positive train con- here, attached to our responsibility as to healthcare until he was connected trol that can save lives and could have U.S. Senators. with the local community health cen- saved lives, in fact, in Tacoma when We need to think about the position ter. That local community health cen- that train was traveling 80 miles an we are going to put people in because ter was able to get him in for care to hour when the speed limit was 30. of our inability to act and to pass legis- stabilize him and potentially save his These opportunity costs are real. The lation that, prior to this holiday sea- life. Yet that community health cen- choices to incur them are moral, and son, seemed relatively noncontrover- ter—it is called Generations, and it the debt that will have to be paid by sial. serves thousands of people in north- future generations is equally real, and Christmas is about celebrating our eastern Connecticut—will lose 70 per- it is immoral. love for one another. If we really do be- cent of its funding next year.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:14 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.012 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8081 On January 1, many health centers in on that commitment this week by purchase equipment in support of its Connecticut will lose more than half of doing the right thing. missions. They restrict the Navy from their funding, and they will shut their I yield the floor. starting new programs or eliminating doors to thousands and thousands of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- old and unneeded ones. people like this man who wouldn’t re- ator from Arkansas is recognized. Earlier this month, Navy Secretary ceive healthcare but for community f Spencer said the service wasted $4 billion since 2011 because of continuing health centers. RECOGNIZING THE COMMIS- In rural America, the slashing of resolutions. This could have gone a SIONING OF THE USS ‘‘LITTLE community health center funding will long way toward growing our fleet. In- ROCK’’ be absolutely devastating because stead, it is gone. A continuing resolu- sometimes it is these health centers Mr. BOOZMAN. Mr. President, I rise tion means that the Navy is operating that are the only way for people to get today to recognize the commissioning on the previous year’s budget level and care, particularly mental health care of the USS Little Rock, a Freedom-class last year’s priorities. It means delays and addiction. Community health cen- littoral combat ship. I was proud to in shipbuilding and ship repair. It also ter patients are spending this holiday celebrate this historic occasion with means reducing training opportunities, season trying to digest the news that all who gathered for the commissioning flying hours, and steaming days. That they may be shut out from their psy- in Buffalo, NY, this past weekend. forces more requirements onto the chiatrists. They may no longer be able It is an honor to have one of the operational fleet, which is already to see their child’s primary care doctor Navy’s more versatile warships named stretched thin after decades of con- come January 1. A 70-percent cut is not after our State’s capital city. The USS stant worldwide deployment. Secretary something you can manage with effi- Little Rock’s logo features one of the of Defense James Mattis has said that ciencies; it means an elimination of most recognizable images associated the longer the continuing resolution, services. with Arkansas—the Razorback. The the greater the consequences for our Faye is from Norwalk, CT. She came University of Arkansas football team force. to this country when she was 11. She was given the nickname after the head Funding the government is the basic now has DACA status. She, like so coach at the time said the team played responsibility of Washington. It is an many other Dreamers, has done every- like a bunch of razorback hogs. I am obligation that my colleagues and I on thing we asked. Faye went to school. confident this crew, known as the the Senate Appropriations Committee She got an advanced degree. She is now Warhawgs, will carry on that same take very seriously as we craft the ap- holding down two jobs—one of them as work ethic. It has been more than four propriations bills, set priorities, and a radiology scheduler, working in our decades since the Navy had a ship make difficult decisions on how to healthcare system. She is working two named after the city of Little Rock, spend taxpayer dollars. jobs because she wants to have access and we are thrilled that it will again be We must return to a process in which to the American dream of home owner- represented in the Navy’s fleet. we debate and pass annual spending ship, and she is saving and saving so Saturday marked the first time in bills in order to provide much needed that she can buy a house. Now she is the history of the Navy that a ship was predictability to our military leaders, faced with being deported to a country commissioned alongside her namesake. as well as other agencies of govern- that she doesn’t recognize. She has This special occasion brought together ment. We can make this happen by re- been in the United States for 19 years. members of the original USS Little turning to regular order and passing She lived in Connecticut for 16 years. Rock and those like LT Robert Dyer individual appropriations bills. I can’t She is spending her holiday season—as from Mountainburg, AK, who is a mem- say that enough. We owe it to our serv- are the other 800,000 DACA recipients ber of the current crew. icemembers, their families, and all in this country—fearing that her life as During its time as a light cruiser and Americans. We owe it to the crew of she knows it is going to end at the be- then as a guided missile cruiser, the the USS Little Rock. ginning of next year. original USS Little Rock and its crew Admittedly, Little Rock is not the Christmas, the holiday season, is not were vital to defeating the growing first place most people think of when about presents. It is not about those threats of its time. The new USS Little you mention the Navy. Our State Christmas specials. It is about people. Rock is just as critical to our Navy’s doesn’t border an ocean. But now the It is about recommitting ourselves to sea power. This ship and the strength State capital will once again have a this uniquely American notion that we and resolve of the Warhawg crew are place on the high seas. This is a tre- are all in this together and that we are the future of the Navy, offering unique mendous honor for the city of Little weaker as a whole if individuals who capabilities to defend against evolving Rock, and I know the ship and its crew live amongst us are in crisis, especially threats around the globe. will make Arkansas proud. individuals who have done everything There are things this Chamber and I suggest the absence of a quorum. we have asked and have played by the our colleagues in the House of Rep- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The rules. That is Adrianna and Faye—peo- resentatives can do to ensure that the clerk will call the roll. ple who are going to have something Navy has the resources to stay ahead of The bill clerk proceeded to call the taken from them and their loved ones the threats our adversaries pose to us roll. and are going to be put into crisis be- and our allies, and that begins with Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I ask cause we will not do our job. passing individual appropriations bills. unanimous consent that the order for By the end of this week, we have to As Congress continues discussions for the quorum call be rescinded. protect these Dreamers, we have to fiscal year 2018 funding, it serves as a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without provide a permanent extension for reminder that continuing resolutions objection, it is so ordered. are an inefficient method to keep the health center funding, and we have to f provide a permanent extension for chil- government operating. We should be dren’s healthcare insurance funding be- approving individual appropriations RECOGNITION OF THE MINORITY cause it is our job and also because it bills instead of relying on continuing LEADER is cruel to send all of these millions of resolutions. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The families into the holidays with that The starts and stops in the budgeting Democratic leader is recognized. kind of anxiety while we all sit around process impact the Defense Depart- f our holiday tables safe and sound. ment and the Navy significantly. They My kids remind me over and over certainly slow down the already long FUNDING THE GOVERNMENT again about what they learned from timetable to achieve the goal of a 355- Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, the these Christmas specials. Christmas ship fleet. Continuing resolutions nega- clock is ticking ever closer to the end isn’t about the presents. It is not about tively impact our military ratings and of the year. We still need to fund the the trees. It is not about the decora- take our eyes off the focus of elimi- government by Friday. We still need to tions. The holidays are about our com- nating wasteful spending. They hinder lift the spending caps equally for de- mitment to one another. We can re-up our Navy’s leaders’ ability to plan and fense and urgent domestic priorities,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:56 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.014 S19DEPT1 S8082 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 such as combatting the opioid crisis, Yet there are people on the other side SPECIAL COUNSEL MUELLER improving healthcare for veterans, and of the aisle who have this nasty immi- Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, we building rural infrastructure. We must gration attitude that affects the have a lot of business to get to this extend the FISA program and shore up Dreamers and everybody else. It is so week, but because the topic is so im- pensions for over 1 million Americans. un-American. It is so against the stat- portant, I would like to address Special We still need to reauthorize CHIP and ue with the torch in the harbor in the Counsel Mueller’s investigation into end the sabotage of our healthcare city in which I live. It is so against Russian interference in our elections markets. We have had a bipartisan deal what the American people believe. and the Trump campaign’s potential on a stabilization package for months Eighty percent want to help the involvement. now. It is a product that should have Dreamers. Yet we are stymied so far, Over the past several months, the in- been easy to include in the end-year and 1,000 Dreamers are losing their sta- vestigation and the FBI have been the deal. After all, it is the product of bi- tus each week. target of a smear campaign by Repub- partisan negotiations between Chair- On all of these things, the time to act licans, in the media primarily—in a man ALEXANDER and Ranking Member is now. Bipartisan negotiations con- media outlet that is hardly regarded as MURRAY, two of our most effective Sen- tinue to seek a compromise to ensure down the middle, in a media outlet ators. But now, because the Repub- DACA protections as well as to provide that just seems to ask ‘‘how high’’ licans are repealing the individual additional border security. We Demo- when President Trump says to jump. mandate in their tax bill, the Alex- crats are all for that—real border secu- Now it has been joined, quite natu- ander-Murray deal will not have its in- rity that makes a difference. We should rally, by several Republicans here in tended effect. Even worse, Speaker strive to reach a deal as soon as is hu- Congress. Their intent is not to push RYAN has just said the agreement will manly possible. back on the special counsel’s findings not pass the House unless the Hyde lan- If we are not able to reach a global or to introduce exculpatory evidence guage is attached to it—another elev- deal by this Friday on these many on behalf of Manafort, Gates, enth hour partisan demand on a bill issues, there will be a temptation to do Papadopoulos, or Flynn, who have been that has already been negotiated in the a short-term funding bill with some of indicted or convicted. Their intent is Senate. What should have been an easy these items but not others. That won’t not to make an argument about the addition to the year-end package is work. We should be doing all of these substance of the investigation at all. getting more difficult by the hour be- things together instead of in a piece- Their intent is to discredit the investi- cause of Republican demands. meal, week-by-week fashion. Our Re- gator and the investigation itself, by We still need to pass disaster supple- publican friends cannot pick and falsely painting it as biased or par- mental funding to aid storm-stricken choose what they want and do what tisan. That way, whatever its findings parts of our country—California, Puer- they did on the tax bill and do what are at the end of the day, they have to Rico, the Virgin Islands, as well as they did on the healthcare bill in say- created a permission structure to dis- Texas, Louisiana, and Florida. The dis- ing that Democrats are not welcome to miss them. aster supplemental bill coming out of be part of the deal—because this one When you are afraid of the result, the House, while it has much better ain’t under reconciliation. you attack the process. When you are funding levels than the administra- We want to work in a bipartisan way, afraid of the message, you shoot the tion’s proposal, still does not treat but a bipartisan way means just that, messenger. That is what is happening Puerto Rico or the Virgin Islands fair- not Republicans deciding on their own right now with the escalating rhetoric ly. It does not provide for cost-sharing and telling us that we should just be in the rightwing echo media chambers. waivers, and it doesn’t include enough for it. The best way to get a good, bi- The commentators at FOX News have funding for resiliency, mitigation, partisan result, which by the Senate actually called Mr. Mueller’s investiga- Medicaid, or drinking water infrastruc- rules is necessary for spending bills, is tion a coup—an outrageous charge that ture. It is a step in the right direction for us to work together. has been repeated by a Republican Con- but not good enough. f gressman on the floor of the House. I would reiterate my plea. Texas and That is how overblown this rhetoric TAX CUTS AND JOBS BILL the Texas delegation have constantly has gotten. criticized government funding. All of a Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I will Mr. Mueller is one of the most trust- sudden, now that there is a disaster, have further comments on the tax bill ed and respected public servants in they want money. Fine. Yet what that I will deliver on the Senate floor America. He has served administra- about that $10 billion rainy day fund? late tonight after the conference re- tions of both parties. He was first ap- Let Texas spend that. I guarantee you port, but I just want to say that this pointed by a Republican and was in- that if it were in a blue State, some of bill will be an anchor around the an- stalled as a special counsel by Presi- our friends from Texas would be calling kles of every Republican. It so helps dent Trump’s pick for Deputy Attorney for it—the very same people who op- the wealthy and the powerful corpora- General, Republican Rod Rosenstein. posed aid to Sandy, the very same peo- tions, and it does so little and even As everyone in America knows, he is as ple who have relished putting State hurts many in the middle class. It is a straight a shooter as one comes. Im- and local deductibility in the bill. Well, loser. pugning his motives and calling his in- what is good for the goose is good for In a CNN new poll, a majority of vestigation a witch hunt or a coup is, the gander. Let Texas dip into its $10 Americans oppose the tax bill. When frankly, hysterical. billion fund before it gets FEMA did you ever hear that Americans are I regret even repeating those ridicu- money. That is what seems fair and against a tax cut bill? Well, you are lous comments because there is not a right, particularly for those who don’t hearing it now. shred of evidence to back them up—not want to see Federal Government spend- It is because our Republican friends a shred. If any of these critics had evi- ing increase. are listening to the thousands of really dence, they would pursue their claims Of course, last, but certainly not greedy multibillionaires who want in court, but, of course, there is no evi- least, we still need to protect the their taxes cut, even though they are dence. So, instead, they wage a warped Dreamers—young people brought into doing great, and don’t want to share campaign in the press, fueled by an av- this country through no fault of their those benefits with the middle class alanche of trumped-up allegations and own, many of them who know no other even if they make millions of middle- disinformation. country but ours. These are people who class people pay more. What are they so afraid of? are in our Armed Forces—over 800— The Republicans will rue the day We all know why. The special coun- who are going to our schools, who are that they passed this tax bill—will rue sel’s investigation is an important one working in our factories and offices the day—because it is so unfair to the for our democracy. We have to get to and stores. They, like everybody else— middle class. It so blows a hole in our the bottom of what happened in last like our ancestors—want to be Ameri- deficit. It so threatens Social Security, year’s election no matter who ends up cans. They contribute to America. Medicare, and Medicaid. They will rue on the short end of the stick when They help America. the day. those results are announced: How was

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.015 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8083 Russia able to wage a successful infor- Duckworth King Rubio That doesn’t make sense, and it is mation campaign to influence our elec- Durbin Klobuchar Sasse just another reason why we should vote Enzi Lankford Schumer tion? To what extent were any mem- Ernst Leahy Scott against the tax bill. bers of Trump’s Presidential campaign Feinstein Lee Shaheen I yield the floor. coordinating with that foreign attack Fischer Manchin Shelby Flake McCaskill f on our democracy for political benefit? Stabenow Gardner McConnell Strange Graham Menendez RECESS These are vital questions that every Sullivan Grassley Moran American should know, and it is an Tester Hassan Murkowski The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under outright disgrace that our Republican Hatch Murphy Thune the previous order, the Senate stands colleagues have not joined in in asking Heitkamp Murray Tillis in recess until 2:15 p.m. for this—so many of them—being as Heller Nelson Toomey Udall Thereupon, the Senate, at 12:52 p.m., partisan as can be and putting their Hirono Perdue Hoeven Peters Van Hollen recessed until 2:15 p.m. and reassem- party over country. If Russia continues Inhofe Portman Warner bled when called to order by the Pre- in these types of investigations, woe is Isakson Reed Whitehouse siding Officer (Mr. PORTMAN). America—woe is America. Johnson Risch Wicker The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Kaine Roberts Young Rather than this concerted campaign Kennedy Rounds ator from Oklahoma. to sully the investigation and the FBI, President Trump and his allies should NAYS—11 f be encouraging them to do their job, to Franken Markey Schatz LEGISLATIVE SESSION do it right, and to do it thoroughly. Gillibrand Merkley Warren Harris Paul Wyden The stakes are too high and the topic Heinrich Sanders too serious. MORNING BUSINESS NOT VOTING—1 I yield the floor. McCain Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the Senate be f The nomination was confirmed. in a period of morning business, with The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under CONCLUSION OF MORNING Senators permitted to speak therein, the previous order, the motion to re- BUSINESS equally divided, until 3 p.m. consider is considered made and laid The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. upon the table and the President will objection, it is so ordered. CRUZ). Morning business is closed. be immediately notified of the Senate’s Mr. INHOFE. I also ask unanimous action. f consent that at the conclusion of the The Senator from Florida. remarks of the Senator from Virginia, EXECUTIVE SESSION Mr. NELSON. Mr. President, I ask I be recognized for such time as I may unanimous consent to speak as in consume. morning business for up to 5 minutes. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without EXECUTIVE CALENDAR The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without objection, it is so ordered. objection, it is so ordered. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under The Senator from Virginia. the previous order, the Senate will pro- f ceed to executive session to consider f the following nomination, which the REPUBLICAN TAX BILL REPUBLICAN TAX BILL clerk will report. Mr. NELSON. Mr. President, there The bill clerk read the nomination of Mr. KAINE. Mr. President, I thank are many reasons to vote against the Jennifer Gillian Newstead, of New my colleague, the Senator from Okla- tax bill. A new one has come to light in York, to be Legal Adviser of the De- homa. examining these 1,100 pages, and that is partment of State. I rise to talk about the tax debate with regard to Puerto Rico and what it Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I ask that the Senate is currently having. I does to Puerto Rico. for the yeas and nays, and I yield back wish to highlight some of the reasons It ought to be enough that $1.5 tril- all time. why I think this bill is bad and, frank- lion is borrowed in order to finance a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there ly, focus on the missed opportunity huge tax cut for multinational corpora- objection? that we are about to embark on when tions, with incentives to send Amer- Without objection, all time is yielded we could have found a much better ican jobs overseas. That ought to be back. project. enough, and it ought to be enough that Is there a sufficient second? Let me tell you a story from when I compared to that, there are just There appears to be a sufficient sec- was mayor. I was mayor of Richmond. crumbs for the hard-working, middle- ond. I know my colleague from Oklahoma class families, but there is more. The question is, Will the Senate ad- was mayor as well. I had a city council In this tax bill, indeed, CBO has said vise and consent to the Newstead nomi- colleague who introduced a seemingly that 13 million people will lose health nation? benign bill. It was a bill to limit the insurance as a result of something that The clerk will call the roll. number of dogs and cats that anybody was done to the Affordable Care Act. The bill clerk called the roll. could have at their residence. Now, if all of that were not enough, Mr. CORNYN. The following Senator Now, pursuant to the city rules, we and if you care about the people on the is necessarily absent: the Senator from had to post this resolution in the news- island of Puerto Rico who are reeling paper for a couple of weeks so that citi- Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN.) from two storms that hit them—a good The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there zens could read it, and we had a public part of the island still doesn’t have any other Senators in the Chamber de- hearing where any citizen who wanted electricity and still does not have pota- siring to vote? to speak for or against the resolution ble water—and who were already in The result was announced—yeas 88, had the opportunity to do so. Then, the economic straits to begin with and nays 11, as follows: city council members debated, and wanting to keep jobs on the island so then we had a vote. It turned out to be [Rollcall Vote No. 320 Ex.] people don’t have to flee—lo and be- a little more controversial than the YEAS—88 hold, in the tax bill, what is given to council member originally con- Alexander Burr Coons American mainlanders is an increase in templated. Baldwin Cantwell Corker Barrasso Capito Cornyn the child tax credit from $1,000 to $2,000 When I was mayor, the minor little Bennet Cardin Cortez Masto per child and making that refundable debate in the Richmond City Council Blumenthal Carper Cotton for low-income people up to $1,400 per about the number of pets you could Blunt Casey Crapo child—that increase to help poor, have at your residence received more Booker Cassidy Cruz Boozman Cochran Daines working families with children was not openness and transparency and discus- Brown Collins Donnelly given to Puerto Rico. sion and debate than the vote that we

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:56 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.016 S19DEPT1 S8084 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 will have within a few hours or days just in 2019. Those who make over $1 good faith and saying: We will work about the entire Tax Code of the million will see their taxes go down by with you. I stood up, and, of course, I United States. that much. was only given a minute to make an Instead of doing a bill openly and de- Massive tax cuts go to foreign indi- amendment. The process said that even liberately, with a lot of public input, viduals who own stock in American though it is the entire American econ- and ultimately reaching for a bipar- companies. Just in the first year, about omy, you only get 1 minute. I stood up, tisan result, we have moved hastily, in $48 billion go to foreign individuals be- and I said: I can’t fix the bill in 1 secret, and in a partisan way. In my cause of their ownership of stock in minute, but I can do a couple of things. view, that is the reason why the end American companies. To the contrary, I can reduce the deficit impact by $1 product is going to be so discouraging. millions of middle-class people are trillion, and I can make every middle- We had a vote in the Budget Com- hurt. class tax cut that is temporary in this mittee to move this tax bill forward. It By 2027, on average, every income bill permanent. I can do those two was interesting. We actually voted be- group below $75,000 will face a tax in- things—permanent middle-class tax fore we discussed it. The bill was on crease, and 92 million households—the cut and reducing the deficit by $1 tril- everybody’s desk. The chair decided combined population of probably 20 lion—if you will agree with me to do that we would vote, and only later States—earning under $200,000 will face the following: Don’t touch the AMT or would we talk about it. That would net tax increases in this bill. That is top individual rates and reduce the cor- never have been done at a Richmond over half of all households in the coun- porate tax rate, not to 20 percent but City Council meeting. try. to 25 percent—from 35 to 25. We had a full audience of citizens The working poor get hurt especially. Thirty-four Democrats voted for tax who wanted to be heard, and they were The working poor who have the most reform for the reduction of the cor- not given an opportunity. That would to lose and the least margin will get porate tax rate from 35 to 25, making not be done at a Richmond City Coun- hurt. By 2025, this bill would reduce the middle-class tax cuts permanent, and cil meeting. Some of the citizens start- after-tax incomes of households with reducing the deficit by $1 trillion, but ed to sort of protest and get angry, get incomes below $40,000, while it would not a single Republican—not a single mad, and shout. When that happens in boost the after-tax incomes of house- one—would vote to make the middle- a committee meeting, I cringe because holds with incomes over $1 million. class tax cuts permanent and reduce it is a violation of the decorum I ex- I want to assume in charity that the the deficit. We still want to work on it. pect. But what choice do they have? hurting of the working poor and the We could still make it better. This is only a tax reform that affects helping of folks at the top is a result of As I conclude, I will just note, again, the entire American economy, every haste rather than design. We could that it was notable that when Presi- American family, and every American take the time and get this right. dent Reagan did tax reform as Presi- business, and they feel shut out of the These analyses that I just indicated dent in 1986, this didn’t get 50 votes or process. are done by the nonpartisan CBO, 50 votes plus a tie-breaker—51 votes. In The first version of this bill that was whose director is from the Mercatus this body, the greatest deliberative live was released to the public in the Center at George Mason University, body in the world, the Reagan-era tax Senate on Thursday, November 9. The which is widely known as a very con- reform got 97 votes because they took current version, which is the fifth servative economics department, and the time to have the hearings and hear version of the bill, was only released also by the Joint Committee on Tax- from the public, and they took the last Friday night, 4 days ago. So this ation, and the Tax Policy Center. All of time to incorporate great ideas no mat- bill to completely rework the U.S. the analyses come to virtually the ter the party of those who offered it. economy moves from introduction to same conclusion: The bill dramatically President Reagan said, as he was em- passage over just 41 days with multiple increases the deficit to the tune of $1.4 barking on that: ‘‘It should not be a versions, often with handwriting in trillion over of the next 10 years. It partisan debate, for the authors of tax them and handed out at the last will lead to millions of people falling reform come from both parties, and all minute before votes. into the ranks of the uninsured. The of us want greater fairness, incentives, The last time this body did com- CBO says 13 million. and simplicity in taxation.’’ He was prehensive tax reform in 1986, the Sen- For my own Commonwealth, there right then, and that remains true, and ate had 36 days of public hearings over are a number of provisions that are yet this is a process that is not incor- 10 months. This plan has had zero—zero particularly harmful. We are one of the porated—either the thoughts of the public hearings. When the Finance top five recipients, or claimants, of the public or the thoughts of the Demo- Committee refuses to allow a hearing, deductibility for State and local in- cratic minority. when the Budget Committee forces a come taxation. Virginians are going to I will say this, as I close. The GOP is vote before the members even have a be hurt because of the reduction of the not measured by who it says its hero is. chance to express their opinions, is this historic tax credit. Most of my GOP friends have posters of really what the Senate wants to be Why couldn’t we work together? Why President Reagan or pictures of Presi- known for? The stakes couldn’t be couldn’t we work together to try to do dent Reagan. They talk about him as a higher. something that would be right, as personal hero, but you really are not I think in the end it is highly un- President Reagan and Congress did in measured by who you say your hero is. likely, but I still hope at the end we 1986? You are measured by whom you act might decide to do this the right way Now, 16 Democrats and 1 Independent like. This is not a President Reagan- and not the wrong way, because when stood up a few weeks ago, and we said: era tax reform. This is not the way you approach the process the wrong We are ready to work with Republicans President Reagan would have done tax way—quickly, secretively, in a par- on tax reform. You have former Gov- reform. tisan way, without public input or ernors who have done bipartisan tax re- This is a President Trump bill. A hearings—you get a bad bill. This bill, form. You have former tax commis- last-minute change in this bill—a very in my view, is a bad bill. sioners who have worked on tax issues. important last-minute change that The benefits in this bill overwhelm- We said: We are ready to work with only came in at the very end—would ingly accrue to folks who are at the top you to make this better. directly benefit President Trump and end, who frankly don’t need your help. Every one of us in that group has his family by further exploiting a loop- Eighty-three percent of the tax plan’s worked on bipartisan tax reform. I hole to give real estate developers benefits go to the top 1 percent earners have done it as a mayor, and I have more money. This was on top of giving in this country because of giveaways done it as a Governor. I know how to him relief on the estate tax and the al- like increasing the estate tax threshold do it, and I have ideas, but nobody was ternative minimum tax. At the last and altering the alternative minimum interested in a single one. minute, there was one last change tax. The late Friday night that we voted made that was specifically designed to If you make over $1 million, you will here, I put an amendment on the table help President Trump make even more. get a collective tax cut of $36.9 billion to show my Republican colleagues our No, this is not a Reagan-era tax reform

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.019 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8085 bill. This is purely a product of Presi- total revenue that came into the Fed- acknowledged his role on the national and dent Trump. eral Government was $569 billion. At international stage. For instance, speaking It follows what he does: Say one the end of that period of 10 years that at the 1990 National Prayer Breakfast, Presi- thing and do another. Claim to help the they were measuring, it was $1 trillion. dent George H.W. Bush praised Coe for his quiet diplomacy. middle class but actually hurt them. Now, the problem is, the other side is Say it is not going to help me or always saying that our deficits in- I don’t ever remember in the years I wealthy people when it actually does. I creased during that time period. Yes, have known him that he ever raised his am not surprised by the President, but they did, but I have to say this: It was voice. He was always a quiet diplomat. I am surprised at many of my col- not because of Ronald Reagan, it was [Doug Coe] was a behind-the-scenes player leagues here because we could have because the House and the Senate were at the Camp David Accords in 1978, working run by liberal Democrats, and as fast with President Jimmy Carter to issue a worked on something and not have worldwide call to prayer with Israeli Prime missed an opportunity that would have as the increase in revenue came in, Minister Menachem Begin and Egyptian been far better for the American econ- they were spending not just the in- President Anwar Sadat. In 2000, Coe met omy. It is still my hope that we will. crease but even more. with the top economic officials of Pakistan I yield the floor. So that is one of the differences now. as a ‘‘special envoy.’’ Coe met with President The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- I anticipate that we are going to have George H.W. Bush as he hosted a luncheon ator from Oklahoma. a conservative House and Senate for with Iraq’s ambassador to the United States Mr. INHOFE. First of all, Mr. Presi- the years to come, and we will just in the mid-1980s. In 2001, Coe helped arrange dent, as to my very good friend from have to wait and see what is right. a private meeting between two warring leaders. Virginia—and he is a very good friend— I do agree with my friend from Vir- I think he needs to reread this bill. ginia, though, in one respect; that is, By the way, I was there so I remem- Now, I am older than he is and most he and I both had the hardest job in the ber this firsthand. That was the Presi- of the people around here, but I do re- world. You never know what a hard job dent of Congo, Joe Kabila, and the member the Reagan tax cuts. This is a is until you are mayor of a major city. President of Rwanda, Paul Kagame. I Reagan tax cut. There is no hiding place, and if they was there during the National Prayer I listened to the other side and a lot don’t like the trash, it ends up in your Breakfast, and he had these two Presi- of the liberals on the other side, be- front yard. dents of warring countries in there to cause there is a difference between f talk to them in the spirit of Jesus. That is when everything broke down, Democrats and Republicans, and we REMEMBERING DOUG COE understand that. But they come out they became friends, and they signed a Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, that is and say: Oh, it is always class warfare. peace accord. That was Doug Coe. not what I am here to talk about It is always that they are doing this for Coe was a member of the large United today. I would like to speak about the rich. The rich are going to get rich- States Congressional and ministerial delega- someone who—I will put it this way: tion which accompanied then First Lady Hil- er. Well, that is not the way this Way back in the 1950s, back when Ei- lary Clinton to the 1997 funeral of the found- worked out. senhower was President, three giants er of the Sisters of Charity, Mother Teresa. There is a group called the National came to Washington, DC. Two of the He is mentioned by John Ortberg in his Tax Foundation. The National Tax three giants people know about and book, ‘‘If You Want to Walk on Water, Foundation did an analysis of this, and You’ve Got to Get Out of the Boat.’’ they have heard of and they are well they did it State by State. In my State known. One was Billy Graham. Oh, we He talked about how the book was of Oklahoma, the average family of remember Billy Graham still, right partly about Doug Coe. He was the guy four will get an increase in their take- now, and the things he has done. He who had a great influence in bringing home pay of $2,000. Now, where does it has done more for Jesus and for God. medicine and releasing political pris- come from? There is the standard de- Every time I get a chance to see some- oners in Kenya. We all remember that duction, for example. The Senator thing on TV that is from one of his episode. talked about this being for the rich. past rallies, I do so. So here we have a guy who was bring- This isn’t for the rich. The standard de- Another one who came, of the three ing warring powers together. He was duction actually goes from $6,000 to giants who came, was Bill Bright. solving serious problems with the $12,000. If you are married, it is from Some may not remember who Bill country. Yet that wasn’t even his mis- $12,000 to $24,000. Bright was. He was the founder of the sion. There is the child tax credit. We are Campus Crusade for Christ. He was the I know I will lose credibility when I all concerned about the child tax cred- guy who actually started—people are say this because people will think it is it. Several Republicans wanted to do not aware of this in the general public, impossible. A few people here know it even more than that. Right now, as the but we actually have events two times is not impossible because they heard it law is, it is $1,000, but it is going to be a week; one is a Prayer Breakfast and once before; that is, Doug Coe has actu- increased after this is over, after we one is a Bible study. Bill Bright was ally taken his mission, which is the vote. After we have a major tax reduc- the one who started that. So everyone Jesus mission—by the way, Time mag- tion, that child tax credit will go from has heard of Bill Bright and the Cam- azine listed him among the 25 most in- $1,000 to $2,000 per child. That is a huge pus Crusade for Christ. fluential evangelicals in America, but, thing. That is not for the wealthy. The third giant who came in no one anyway, I will lose credibility when I I listen sometimes when they talk has heard of, and his name was Doug say that, in effect, Doug Coe has been about how this is going to increase the Coe. This is Doug Coe. Doug Coe came to every country in the world. The rea- deficit. I have to tell you, though, that with the other two giants, and he real- son I know this—I thought we had him I remember very well. In fact, I remem- ly changed America. He died last Feb- one time because Zanzibar is actually— ber so well. I have given speeches over ruary 21. I purposely, for an obvious people think it is a separate country time. Reagan reduced taxes twice. One reason my colleagues will find out in a next to Tanzania. He never was in Zan- was in 1981 and one in 1986. In 1986 and minute, waited until now to talk very zibar, and I was. Then we found out he 1981, the total amount of revenue that much about him. was right, and I was wrong; that was came into the Federal Government was You see, people think of Doug Coe as not a separate country. $469 billion. He had a huge reduction in having been someone who was a great Anyway, he has had this Jesus mis- rates. Yes, the top rate went down from diplomat, he had political influence sion since actually the late 1940s. 70 percent to 50 percent, then the oth- and all that. There is an article written I want to just mention that I hope ers went down in accordance with a not long ago, and I will read this to you and pray my kids and grandkids, when similar percentage. because he did things like that. He did it comes time for me to cash out, will Now, what happened to that was it second only to his real mission in be as respectful and as loving as his that, while the total amount that came life. kids and grandkids were at his funeral. in before the tax cuts was $469 billion, The article goes like this: We called it a celebration, not a fu- afterward, it was $750 billion. The same The extent of Coe’s influence in American neral. One of his grandkids, Sam Wag- thing happened in 1986. In 1986, the politics is [real]. . . . important figures have ner, talked about a trip he and his

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.020 S19DEPT1 S8086 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 grandpa took to Nepal. Sam recalled said: Doug Coe was a sermon we saw. If never heard of you. Who are you, any- how Doug not only met with dig- we looked closely, we also saw a how? He said that to Doug. nitaries, but he also met with the glimpse of Jesus. Doug said: Well, we have many mu- young kids carrying machine guns who Another guy who is very well known tual friends all over the city. I have had shut the city down. to all of us here—known worldwide—is heard about you for a long time. Justin is a grandson. He recited the this guy named Ward Brehm. Ward Lee Atwater said: What have you story of Jesus feeding the 5,000 and said Brehm enjoys talking about Doug Coe. heard? that Doug reminds him of the little He is the one who repeated something Doug replied: I have heard that you boy in that story. Just as the boy that George H.W. Bush said a long time are a real S-O-B. brought his loaves and fish to Jesus, ago. He said: Doug Coe has more He didn’t say S-O-B, he said the real Doug brought all he had to Jesus. friends who are heads of State than I words, and their dialogue began at that Doug used to ask his grandson the time. do. This is the President of the United So from then until August, Lee was question: If you give Jesus all of your States talking. deteriorating, and one August day, Lee love, what will happen? You will not President Bush also said—one of his asked Coe to come to his hospital bed run out of love for other people. Rath- favorite quotes: ‘‘Doug Coe was the in an emergency. He was dying, and he er, Jesus will make your love enough most famous person that nobody has wanted to find out, What is this deal for the whole world. ever heard of.’’ about Jesus? What is this deal about That is a grandson. Gosh, I would Well, anyway, Ward Brehm was tell- God? He said that when he arrived, Lee like to have my grandsons feel that ing a story, and he said: In an early looked at him with his best piercing way. conversation about Africa, Doug once glare, and he said: This Jesus business, Melissa, a granddaughter, at the very asked me: If you were God, how would is he God or isn’t he God? Tell me. last of the celebration I am referring you help all of those poor people in Af- Some say he is God, some say he is to, stood up and said: I want you to rica? man. leave this service talking about Jesus My mind went totally blank, and I Doug replied: This is something you because Doug would certainly have stammered: I don’t know. have to decide for yourself, but let me been disappointed if you left talking Doug said: We are not in a hurry. just tell you a little story. about him. Just think about it for a while. Lee gave Coe his full command and So, anyway, we have people like that. Ward Brehm said: So I did. I thought focus. We had famous people at that meeting, about it for a while, and my mind was Doug Coe said: You are big on the by the way. One was Dr. Barbara Wil- still a blank. So, finally, in frustration, Golden Rule. Now, let’s just say that liams-Skinner. The first time she met I said: I am not God so I don’t know you are the most powerful figure in the Doug, he talked like he already knew what I would do, but you seem to know universe. her well and like she already knew so you tell me, if you were God, how This is Doug Coe talking to Lee Jesus well, even though she had only would you help the poor people in Afri- Atwater. recently accepted Jesus into her life, ca? You are the most powerful person in but Barbara Skinner is a very liberal Doug Coe said very quietly: I would the universe, and you could say, let Democrat, a wonderful person, and she change the hearts of their leaders. there be a star or a planet and, boom, jokingly said that Doug didn’t under- This is what Doug did. He didn’t just it exists; or you wanted to create ele- stand gender issues because most of his change the hearts of leaders, he phants and, boom, there are elephants fellowship members were men, and he changed the hearts of leaders around or cows or human beings. Anything you would say to her: We brothers have to the world—every country in the world. wanted, you had all the power, right? stick together. One man did that. I don’t know how You understand that? So you are sit- Doug made Barbara pray for Ronald that is even possible. ting up on a cloud somewhere, looking Reagan at the National Prayer Break- Another person who was—had a dif- down on Earth, and you see these cows fast when Ronald Reagan was Presi- ferent kind of expression is Lee grazing in a field, and you decide that dent. Even after she told him she didn’t Atwater. Not many people remember you want to be a real companion to know enough Scripture to pray for Re- Lee Atwater. He was well known in Re- those cows. Now, what would you do? publicans, Doug challenged her to con- publican circles. He actually was the All of a sudden, that picture of God front her skepticism of people of dif- chairman of the Republican Party a becoming man had a clarity of an index ferent beliefs, and she did. number of years ago. He was a tal- card summary. He said: I got it. I got You know, he had a way of getting ented, charismatic guy. He played gui- it, he shouted. Don’t tell me any more. things done that other people didn’t. tar. He sang. Everybody loved him. He Don’t tell me any more. It is very One of the well-known people who was was arguably one of the best political clear. And he died. there at the celebration was Sam mechanics around at that time. Doug had a way of saying things that Nunn. We remember Sam Nunn. He was Something bad happened to him. He nobody else did. The last one I will mention—this is a very well-known U.S. Senator. He is got leukemia. He knew he was going to significant to me because I happened to one who really concentrated on re- die, but he wasn’t sure—he said: I am be with Doug at the time the state- building our national defense when it going to die. I have to be rational ment was made. about this thing. I don’t know who God needed to be rebuilt. He would talk President Museveni is the President about Doug Coe. He said Doug formed or Jesus is. of Uganda. Like many of the Presi- So, on Friday, March 16, after a small fellowships and prayer groups in dents in Africa, he is one who came White House breakfast, Lee struck up a the House, in the Senate, at the Pen- through the bush and fought his way tagon, at the executive branch, the ju- conversation with the President’s sec- up, and he has been, I think, an excel- dicial branch, and he also formed retary. I remember her, Patty Presock. lent President. groups globally all over the world. He She suggested that he call Doug Coe. Doug has told him Jesus said: ‘‘I am started many diverse fellowship groups She was suggesting that Lee Atwater the way, the truth, and the life. No one throughout Japan and injected them call Doug Coe. At that time, he was comes to the Father but by me.’’ all with Jesus. Jesus was it with Doug. working with Members of Congress on This always bothered President Sam told a story about playing golf the National Prayer Breakfast. Museveni. with Doug. Doug was a good golfer. He Eleven days later, Lee arrived at the The President said to Doug Coe: was talented. He made bets with the Cedars in Virginia overlooking the Po- Look, we can go out into the bush. We people he played golf with, and if they tomac, which served as the head- have villages. They have never heard of lost, they would have to—it wasn’t a quarters for Doug Coe’s Fellowship God. They have never heard of Jesus. money deal—they would have to Foundation. Now, using a cane, Lee Are you saying that there is no way memorize a Bible verse or go on mis- Atwater, nearing his death, walked they are going to get to Heaven? sion trips. Doug always wins. into the main house and sized up his 60- Doug told President Museveni a I always will remember what Sam year-old host. He said: I have been in story—that he had actually experi- said. Very quietly, in a quiet voice, he this city for many years now, and I enced this revelation. When he was in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.021 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8087 the Gobi Desert several years ago to DACA the military, and raising American visit Mongolian sheepherders, he told Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, I am children of their own. They are proud them that he had a friend who was a rising today to join my voice with so to be here. These young people aren’t shepherd. In fact, he told them that his many others to support young people numbers; they are our neighbors. friend is the greatest shepherd who whom we call Dreamers. These young In Michigan, we care about our ever lived. His friend knows all of the people were brought to the United neighbors. One of these young people is flock, even the names of each sheep. If States as children, sometimes as ba- named Nara. She shared her story with one of the sheep gets lost, the shepherd bies. For many of them, this country is me, both last week and again today. I leaves the flock to search for the one the only home they have ever known. I am so pleased that she and other won- lost sheep. The Mongolian sheepherders should say up front that we need com- derful young people are in town today were amazed as Doug told him about prehensive immigration reform for our to share their stories. this shepherd. security and our economy. Nara was born in Poland. Her parents The next day the Mongolian sheep- Our Nation’s immigration system is faced intense discrimination because of herders told Doug that during the broken, and it hurts families, workers, their different backgrounds; one was night they had decided to follow this businesses, and farmers each and every from Poland and the other was from shepherd, but they wanted to know his day. But targeting these young people Mongolia. In 2000, when Nara was only name. Doug said that his name was who have come to our country through 4 years old, she and her mom were Jesus. They told Doug that they had their parents—their parents bringing granted a visa to come to the United always known about him, but they them as children—does nothing to States. never knew his name, and President solve the larger issues that we need to Nara excelled in school. She grad- Museveni understood what he was talk- address in the Senate and in the House. uated from high school with honors ing about. To remind everyone, to be eligible for and attended the University of Detroit Doug Coe had a way of explaining the Deferred Action for Childhood Ar- Mercy. She also found ways to give things that other people didn’t. I was rivals Program, which we call DACA, back, leading service trips around the particularly blessed because for 20 young people have to have entered the country and volunteering for organiza- years I met with Doug every Tuesday United States before their 16th birth- tions, including the Humanitarian Alli- for an hour at 5 o’clock. I was a recipi- day. They must be attending school, ance of Michigan, World Medical Re- ent of all the grace he had in the polit- have graduated or earned their GED, or lief, and Children’s Hospital of Michi- ical philosophy of Jesus. I call it that; have been honorably discharged from gan. Earlier this year, Nara graduated Doug didn’t call it that. It is all scrip- the U.S. military, and they must not with a bachelor’s degree in biology and turally based. Acts 9:15 says: What did have been in trouble with the law. a minor in leadership. She was awarded Jesus say to Paul on the road to Da- Those are pretty good principles for all one of Detroit Mercy’s highest honors, mascus? of us—following the law and working presented to the undergraduate student He said: Take my name. Take my hard. When anyone does that, they who best exemplifies the mission of the name to the Kings. should know that our country has their university—leadership and service. Doug spent all those years in every back. Another one of our wonderful young country in the world, taking his name Those who were approved for DACA people is Juan. He was brought to the to the Kings. Acts 2:42—that is the gen- were given a legal status to remain United States by his parents when he esis of the small meetings we have. Not here and a work permit so that they was a 1-year-old. He was just a baby. many people are aware of them. We are could work and contribute to our coun- He has known no other country. When here in the U.S. Senate every Wednes- try. We made these young people a Juan was in high school, he tried to en- day morning, and we meet in the Spirit promise, and we need to keep it. I feel list in the Marines to serve his coun- of Jesus. We have been doing it ever very strongly that whether it is our try. He longed to serve the country since Doug started this many years veterans, our people in the military that had given him so many opportuni- ago. It is all scripturally based. It is going to war who are protecting us ties. His plans changed, however, when Acts 2:42. We get together, eat to- every day, who are serving our coun- a recruiter told him that he would like- gether, pray together, fellowship to- try—we made them a promise that ly be deported after he had served his gether, and talk about the precepts of they would have healthcare, among country. Instead, Juan got a job, hop- Jesus together. other promises, to make sure that vet- ing to save up money for college. The All of that was happening, and I erans are not at the back of any line. DACA Program allowed him to get a would say that he died—but not until When someone works all their life— job permit and a better job. Today he is he quietly spoke of Jesus to every they work 30 years, they pay into a a prelaw student at Wayne State Uni- country around the world. I can say pension, and they assume that pension versity. He hopes to one day become an that Doug is going to have a very is going to be there—that is another immigration lawyer. Merry Christmas. kind of promise. This is also a promise Juan said this: I believe in America. . . . I was raised here. f that was made to young people. If they worked hard and followed the rules and I love this country. . . . This is my home. OUR 58TH WEDDING ANNIVERSARY stayed out of trouble and contributed Nara, Juan, and so many other young Mr. INHOFE. Mr. President, there is to our country, either serving in the people are great examples of why we one last thing I want to say that is on military or going to school and work- need to pass the Dream Act. We need to a little different subject. Today is a ing, they would have the right to be extend DACA as soon as possible. I very special day. Today, a little girl here and be able to contribute to our would love to see it happen right now, named Kay and I got married a long country. today. Young people are waiting, have time ago. These are our kids and Nationwide, we know there are about been waiting, and are in horrible situa- grandkids. Today is December 19, 800,000 young people who are covered tions because they don’t know what is which is our 58th wedding anniversary. by DACA. In Michigan alone, we have going to happen. These young people I want to say to Kay: I love you. over 10,000 young people—10,000 young have done everything right, and they I yield the floor. Dreamers—working hard and going to don’t know whether they are going to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- school, contributing to our economy be ripped away from their family and ator from Michigan. and our quality of life in Michigan. sent to a country they may never have Ms. STABENOW. Mr. President, first Many of them have DACA status. been in. They want to be here, contrib- to my friend from Oklahoma, happy Those are some of the numbers; how- uting to America. They want to earn 58th anniversary. That is wonderful. ever, we are not talking about numbers their degrees, start businesses, raise You have a beautiful family. Every here. We are talking about people’s families, and give back to their com- year, I enjoy getting the Christmas lives. We are talking about 10,000 munities. card with the picture of your beautiful young people in Michigan who are at- We need comprehensive immigration family on it. It is a wonderful mile- tending colleges, starting businesses, reform. That is for sure. But first, we stone to celebrate today. creating jobs, buying homes, serving in need to pass the bipartisan Dream Act

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.023 S19DEPT1 S8088 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 as quickly as possible. These young Nelson Schumer Van Hollen President said in 1986—and as I con- Peters Shaheen Warner Dreamers have done nothing wrong. Reed Stabenow Warren tinue to believe—the American people They have done everything right. They Sanders Tester Whitehouse ‘‘haven’t made this the freest country have done everything they have been Schatz Udall Wyden and the mightiest economic force on asked to do. It is time to make sure NOT VOTING—1 this planet by shrinking from chal- our country stands up and keeps its McCain lenges.’’ Reagan noted: promises to them. That is what our This country was founded on faith in the neighbors would do. The motion was agreed to. individual, not groups or classes, but faith in I yield the floor. f resources and bounty of each and every sepa- I suggest the absence of a quorum. TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT— rate human soul. Our Founding Fathers designed a Democratic form of government to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The CONFERENCE REPORT clerk will call the roll. enlist the individual’s energies. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The mo- The assistant bill clerk proceeded to For that reason, I want to remind my tion to proceed having been agreed to, call the roll. colleagues about the hard work that the Chair lays before the Senate the Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I brought us here. It is a journey that conference report to accompany H.R. 1, ask unanimous consent that the order has been years in the making under the which will be stated by title. for the quorum call be rescinded. leadership of both sides of the aisle. It The legislative clerk read as follows: The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. is one we started and will finish for the The committee of conference on the dis- HOEVEN). Is there objection? benefit of the American people and the agreeing votes of the two Houses on the health of the U.S. economy. Without objection, it is so ordered. amendment of the Senate to the bill (H.R. 1), The majority leader. I am proud of the work of the Fi- to provide for reconciliation pursuant to ti- nance and Budget Committees, and I f tles II and V of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year 2018, having met, have had the honor to play a role with both. The Finance Committee held TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT—CON- have agreed that the House recede from its more than 70 hearings on how the Tax FERENCE REPORT—MOTION TO disagreement to the amendment of the Sen- ate and agree to the same with an amend- Code can be improved and streamlined PROCEED ment and the Senate agree to the same, to work better for all Americans. Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I signed by a majority of the conferees on the Almost 3 years ago, Finance Chair- move to proceed to the conference re- part of both Houses. man HATCH and Ranking Member port to accompany H.R. 1. Thereupon, the Senate proceeded to WYDEN convened bipartisan tax reform The PRESIDING OFFICER. The consider the conference report. working groups to analyze challenges question is on agreeing to the motion. (The conference report is printed in of our outdated Tax Code and develop Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, I ask the House proceedings of the RECORD of policy recommendations for com- for the yeas and nays. December 15, 2017.) prehensive tax reform. The conclusions The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- reached by these groups helped identify sufficient second? ator from Wyoming. the issues for reform and shape the There appears to be a sufficient sec- Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, we stand contours of the legislation we are con- ond. today on the precipice of the most sidering now. It is worth noting that The clerk will call the roll. sweeping change to our Nation’s tax the entire fiscal year 2018 budget rec- The senior assistant legislative clerk system in over 30 years. This is a his- onciliation process has been open, called the roll. toric moment, as this distinguished transparent, and subject to regular Mr. CORNYN. The following Senator body begins final consideration of the order, starting with the passage of the is necessarily absent: the Senator from Tax Cuts and Jobs Act—tax reform Senate budget resolution. Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). that will help boost America’s econ- The Senate Budget Committee Further, if present and voting, the omy, create more jobs, and leave more marked up the bill over 2 days and ac- Senator from Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN) money in people’s paychecks. cepted amendments from both sides of would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ The last time we considered tax re- the aisle to make the resolution The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there form similar to this magnitude was stronger. In fact, for the first time any other Senators in the Chamber de- 1986. To help remind us how much our ever, the minority received a copy of siring to vote? country, its economy, and the people the chairman’s budget document 5 days The result was announced—yeas 51, have changed since that time, let’s re- prior to the start of the markup. Ac- nays 48, as follows: view some of the events of that year. cording to many of my colleagues, it [Rollcall Vote No. 321 Leg.] In 1986, the Dow Jones Industrial Av- was one of the most transparent budget YEAS—51 erage closed at 1,895—sure that 20,000 resolution markups in history. Alexander Fischer Paul would never be broken, and it wasn’t The budget resolution—complete Barrasso Flake Perdue until after the last election. It now with the document reconciliation in- Blunt Gardner Portman stands at over 24,000. structions—was then debated on the Boozman Graham Risch A gallon of gas cost just 89 cents. floor. This was an open floor process Burr Grassley Roberts Capito Hatch Rounds Today it is close to $2.50. We still used that allowed every Senator the oppor- Cassidy Heller Rubio land lines to phone our loved ones. tunity to offer and vote on amend- Cochran Hoeven Sasse Iconic movies such as ‘‘Top Gun’’ and ments to improve the resolution before Collins Inhofe Scott Corker Isakson Shelby ‘‘Aliens’’ opened. Americans were its final passage. Cornyn Johnson Strange watching TV shows like ‘‘Dynasty’’ and Last month, the Senate Finance Cotton Kennedy Sullivan ‘‘Hill Street Blues.’’ The Associated Committee held a 4-day markup before Crapo Lankford Thune Press chose NBA star Larry Bird as one approving tax reform legislation de- Cruz Lee Tillis Daines McConnell Toomey of the Athletes of the Year. signed to modernize our Tax Code. The Enzi Moran Wicker President Ronald Reagan signed into markup lasted 23 hours and 34 minutes Ernst Murkowski Young law the Tax Reform Act of 1986, which over the course of those 4 days. Of the NAYS—48 ushered in deep tax rate cuts for Amer- more than 350 amendments filed, 69 Baldwin Donnelly Kaine ican families and an overhaul of our were considered in committee. Amend- Bennet Duckworth King complicated Tax Code. When he signed ments offered by both Democrats and Blumenthal Durbin Klobuchar the bill, Reagan commented on the Republicans were adopted. Booker Feinstein Leahy Brown Franken Manchin length of the journey and noted that Since then, both Chambers of Con- Cantwell Gillibrand Markey some people thought it would never gress have passed similar versions of Cardin Harris McCaskill happen. the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and over Carper Hassan Menendez Today, too, some have asserted that the past 2 weeks, conferees worked Casey Heinrich Merkley Coons Heitkamp Murphy tax reform either cannot or should not tirelessly to resolve and bridge the dif- Cortez Masto Hirono Murray happen, but as our strongly optimistic ferences between the two bills and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:56 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.024 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8089 come to an agreement on a final piece Now it is time for us to act. It is time this President got elected, the growth of legislation. for us to modernize our outdated Tax has been 3.2 percent already. In the In this Chamber, the legislation re- Code so our Nation can remain com- fourth quarter of 2017, we may almost flects the outstanding work and leader- petitive in the 21st century economy. hit 4 percent. There is a lot of hope in ship of Finance Chairman HATCH and The code, as it now stands, hurts Amer- America. Every tenth-of-a-percent in- Energy Committee Chairman MUR- ican workers and hampers economic crease in GDP brings in $273 billion in KOWSKI in developing legislative rec- growth. taxes over 10 years. If we could raise ommendations that adhere to the budg- Along with reforms to the code, this that anemic 1.9 percent to a mere 2.4 et resolution’s reconciliation instruc- bill will also promote economic percent GDP, we can recover the def- tions, and I thank them for their ef- growth. For too long, some have ac- icit effect of the tax cuts. If we can forts. cepted the presumption of a U.S. econ- bring up the productivity in the pri- I also thank my Senate colleagues omy that will not grow as strongly as vate sector—the GDP—to its norm of who earlier this month supported the it has in the past. As a supporter of 3.2 percent, we will pay down signifi- Senate passage of the Tax Cuts and Job this bill, I reject that false narrative. cant debt over the 10-year window. Act and whose advice and consent dur- Better tax policy will boost the value The Council of Economic Advisers ing the conference has shaped the final of everything we produce, and this will and some 130 economists have agreed bill. The legislation is truly a reflec- mean more revenue for the Federal with me. They say the balancing point tion of the broad range and consensus Government. I am tired of the accusa- of 2.4 percent is way too low, and 3.2 of Members who engaged with this tions that Republican budget hawks— percent GDP is much more reasonable. process. and that definitely includes me—are Some even predict 4 percent growth to Throughout my work on this bill, I willing to throw in the towel and ac- our economy. That is how you can be a have carried with me the many lessons cept a $1.5 trillion deficit over the next deficit hawk and cut taxes. You just I have learned from when I owned and 10 years. I am still a deficit hawk. Here have to bet America can do better. Ac- operated a small business or when I is why. Claims to the contrary that tually, we are just betting that we can worked as an accountant. I have been this bill will go unpaid for are based on be as good as we used to be. Our Amer- led by one singular purpose, to help im- an incomplete analysis of the tax bill. ican spirit should say: ‘‘We can do a lot prove the lives of millions of hard- We have a Congressional Budget Of- better than that.’’ working American families, especially fice tasked with impartially evaluating The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will help the residents of my own State of Wyo- any legislation we do. Unfortunately, our economy expand. It will provide ming. its evaluations are tied to static scor- tax relief to hard-working Americans I am pleased with the outcome of our ing. That means it is evaluated with- and make changes to our Tax Code work because I believe it includes out considering the underlying eco- that businesses large and small need to meaningful changes that will help indi- nomic effects of these changes. Let me boost the economy and create jobs. viduals and families struggling to repeat that. The Congressional Budget Ultimately, we know increased reve- move up the economic ladder. The tax Office is tied to static scoring. That nues alone are not going to solve our plan includes reforms that will help means it is evaluated without consid- long-term budget and debt problems grow the economy, that will create ering the underlying economic effects because Washington’s real problem more jobs, and that will simplify taxes. of these changes. isn’t revenue; Washington has a spend- It provides American workers and fam- The problem really isn’t how much ing problem. ilies with an across-the-board tax cut revenue we will have under the new I urge my colleagues today to finish and puts more money in people’s pock- bill. I believe it will increase revenue the task before us. Let’s pass this bill ets. It lets Americans have a greater as the tax cut did in the 1980s. The to make critical and long overdue say as to how to use their hard-earned problem is spending. We never make changes to our Tax Code that will money. The changes will help small budget cuts. In Washington, a cut in jump-start our economy. Our country businesses in our communities thrive the budget brings screams if an agency needs it, hard-working American fami- and encourage the largest multi- or program doesn’t get as much as it lies need it, and they deserve to have national companies to remain in the requested, even if it gets more than it the opportunity to make more choices United States, investing profits here ever had before. That is not a budget about how their hard-earned money instead of overseas—not a bad wish list cut, but that is how it works in Wash- should be used. In closing, I again remind my col- for Santa. ington. If we continue this way, we will leagues of the words of President Under the plan, Americans will reap not ever get our spending in line. Reagan: tax savings from reduced tax rates, tax For years, I have tried to institute savings from a higher standard deduc- the Penny Plan, where we just cut one Let’s not let this magnificent moment slip away. Tax relief is in sight. Let’s make it a tion, which creates a larger zero tax penny in real cuts from where we have reality. . . . We can do it. And if you help, we bracket for low-income individuals and been. It gets lip service but not votes. will do it this year. increases many people’s tax refunds. It It is a lot easier to give away money Thank you, Mr. President. also includes a child tax credit that than it is to take away money, even I yield the floor. doubles in size to $2,000 to help strug- pennies. So we need a new approach. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- gling families and all this while pre- We need to grow the economy. We need ator from Oregon. serving important deductions for med- businesses to do well so more tax Mr. WYDEN. Thank you, Mr. Presi- ical expenses, charities, homeowners, money will come in. We need individ- dent. and State and local taxes. Our farmers uals to make more so more tax money Mr. President and colleagues, today and ranchers will receive stronger pro- will come in. That has been done before the Republican Party officially turns tections from the reach of the death with tax cuts. Unfortunately, when the its back on America’s middle class. Our tax to help them more easily pass on tax cuts performed to provide more constituents believe Congress must re- their businesses to future genera- revenue, we spent twice what we quire multinational corporations to tions—eliminating a double taxation. brought in. pay their fair share, ensure that the Businesses small and large will ben- So here is what I have done as Budg- middle class has the chance to truly efit from a range of tax breaks, includ- et chairman. A good economy brings in get ahead, and protect Medicare, Med- ing lower tax rates, expanded opportu- more tax money. Our economy has icaid, and Social Security. Instead, Re- nities to expense the purchase of cap- been limping along. Last year, it grew publicans are doling out new giveaways ital assets, a new 20-percent deduction at a mere 1.6 percent GDP—which is to the multinational corporations, for many unincorporated businesses, private sector growth, not government raising taxes on the middle class after and international tax reforms to give growth. The norm for the United a brief sugar high, and taking away the the U.S.-headquartered global compa- States is 3.2 percent private sector Medicare and Social Security guaran- nies a strong competitive footing in growth—not like we saw during the tees for the future. the global marketplace. These are past 8 years when this growth re- It takes hard work to muscle a tax changes you can take to the bank. mained below 3 percent. In fact, since plan this unpopular and destructive

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.027 S19DEPT1 S8090 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 through the Congress. Writing it is the here, they are called tax extenders. after entitlement reform, they have easy part, especially when you are just And what they do is ensure a lack of the knives out for Medicare, Medicaid, checking off the far-right tax policy the predictability and certainty we Social Security, anti-hunger programs, wish list. Normally, the hard part is need for innovation and growth. education funding, and more. sticking to your baseless talking All the evidence says that many of Our distinguished colleague from Wy- points, ignoring the public outcry, and the policies in this bill are going to be oming, Chairman ENZI, was talking turning a blind eye to the loads of evi- a nightmare to administer. This means about how dynamic scoring would take dence that your plan is designed to fail. that with this bill, tax cheats get a care of things and that it was just off This process has certainly been as far holiday gift and have the opportunity base to be concerned about these defi- from normal as it can get. The bill to create new rip-offs. What this means cits because dynamic scoring would comes at an enormous cost and rep- for the typical family who just wants make everything turn out fine. The re- resents a huge missed opportunity. For to file and get a refund on time is that ality is that all of the independent some perspective, the $1.5 trillion Re- there are going to be more hassles be- analyses have shown that this bill publicans plan to borrow for their tax cause the government is going to have comes up way short in terms of pro- bill would fund the Children’s Health to devote more time to trying to catch jected revenue. The Tax Foundation, Insurance Program for 915 years—915 the cheats. for example—which is not exactly a years of a lifeline for families who are The defining economic challenge of leftwing operation—says the Repub- walking on an economic tightrope with our time is guaranteeing that the mid- licans were hundreds of billions of dol- CHIP. That is what you could get for dle class and those who strive to be lars short. What the Joint Committee the $1.5 trillion Republicans are bor- middle class have a chance to get on Taxation said is that the Repub- rowing to pay for their tax bill. Spent ahead. Our country is home to the lican plan was $1 trillion short. on infrastructure, it would build tow- world’s most powerful economic en- Let’s put it in context. Remember ering, new monuments in the tradition gine, and it generates levels of pros- that Steve Mnuchin said that this plan of the Hoover Dam, the Golden Gate perity that have never been seen be- would not only pay for itself but that it Bridge, and the Interstate Highway fore, but working families and the mid- would leave $1 trillion left over. Yet System. Aimed permanently at helping dle class have been on the outside of both the Tax Foundation and the Joint the middle class, it would give long- the winner’s circle for generations. The Committee on Taxation said that this struggling Americans a meaningful Republican plan isn’t an answer to that bill comes light years away from pay- chance to get ahead. challenge. In fact, it almost certainly ing for itself. But this isn’t real tax reform or a se- makes the problem worse. I say to my colleagues, it didn’t have rious solution to the major policy chal- At a time when the middle class to be this way. lenges of our time; this is a stimulus needs fundamental, permanent reforms I see the distinguished chairman of plan for shareholder goodies and execu- to give them a chance to get ahead, the the Finance Committee on the floor. tive compensation. Today, Republicans best—the best the Republican plan of- As I have indicated, Democrats be- are ignoring decades of evidence that fers is a sugar high. The fact is, it will lieve that the Tax Code is a rotting trickle-down economics is a fantasy. not be long before the sugar high wears mess and has to be fixed. For years, Republicans have cut taxes bit by bit off and tens of millions of hard-work- there has been bipartisan interest in for multinational corporations and ing Americans will find themselves getting tax reform done right. Seven- high-flyers, but we have seen wages paying higher taxes—higher taxes—as teen Democratic Senators came to- stay flat. The benefits of those pre- a result of this bill. Corporations, on gether, even in a last-ditch effort to vious tax cuts never trickle down. the other hand, reap the benefits of try to bring some bipartisanship into In this debate, Republicans seized on permanent tax breaks and a loophole- the process, and laid out ideas for some a talking point about workers getting ridden system that, in my view, just common ground. I commend that a $4,000 average raise if the bill be- begs to be gamed. group, led by our colleague from West comes law, but that figure is based on The trail of broken promises that Re- Virginia, Senator MANCHIN, and our a made-up, revenue-neutral plan that publicans have left behind in this proc- colleague from Virginia, Senator was never on paper. It is fake math, ess is long and unforgettable. The KAINE. I have written two comprehen- plain and simple. President said his tax bill would not sive, bipartisan tax reform bills, first I want to issue a warning to the pub- benefit his family or people like him. with Senator Judd Gregg and then with lic today. Passing this bill guarantees That is untrue. The Treasury Sec- a member of the President’s Cabinet, years and years of instability in our retary said there would be no tax cut Dan Coats. The majority leader always Tax Code and painful, drawn-out bat- for the upper class. He was happy to likes to talk about how nobody on this tles over tax policy here in the Con- have that called the Mnuchin rule. side is interested in bipartisanship. gress. Because of the pure partisanship That is untrue. Republicans in Con- When Democrats laid out their prin- and the recklessness of the process gress said the principal feature, the ciples, the first thing we said was how that went into drafting this legisla- main feature of their plan, would cen- important it ought to be that we focus tion, the bill is already full of mistakes ter on a middle-class tax cut. That is on bipartisanship. That letter was that are going to have drastic, unin- untrue. Republicans said their bill shared with the Republican leadership. tended consequences. would make the system dramatically Then you have the group of moderates. Down on K Street, they are already simpler. That is untrue. Republicans Then you have the actual bills that working overtime to exploit new spe- said their bill would allow families to were written. So this idea advanced by cial interest loopholes. The giant pass- file their taxes on a postcard. That is the Republican leadership that there through tax loophole, which has been untrue. Republicans said their plan was no interest in bipartisanship does widely covered in the business pages, is would pay for itself. That, too, is un- not resemble reality. just the beginning. There are going to true. By the way, a lot of Senators here be big new incentives for multinational Even many of the promises Repub- know that we have a pretty current ex- corporations to ship jobs overseas, and lican leaders made to their own col- ample—the 2015 tax bill. It is kind of a with that, more factory towns and mill leagues have been broken, but there is model of what you can do. Both sides towns are going to go dark. Fewer one that they are not trying to hide. had good ideas. Bipartisanship is not Americans will have the kinds of reli- The deficit hawks have flown back to about taking each other’s dumb ideas; able manufacturing jobs that support a town, and they are already stirring up anybody can do that. But in the 2015 family. There are going to be extraor- a battle over entitlement reform, and bill, my colleagues on this side said dinary new pressures on State and they are going to look at a variety of that the earned-income tax credit local finances, and that is going to health programs and programs that are ought to be expanded, and we wanted hamper their ability to build new roads a lifeline to millions of Americans. the child tax credit and the American and bridges and schools. There are Our people are not thrown off by the opportunity tax credit. going to be new and annual fights over Washington lingo. They know that The Republicans, led by my distin- the stop-and-go tax policies. Around when Republicans say they are coming guished colleague, Senator HATCH, had

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.028 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8091 some pretty good ideas too. They want- Here in the Senate, the Republicans lions and billions of dollars’ worth of ed to make the research and develop- dropped their plan late at night, just changes tumbling out at the last sec- ment credit permanent and the expens- before the Veterans Day weekend, and ond, the result of special interest influ- ing provisions, which are so important the Finance Committee was supposed ence and hushed conversations in back for farmers and rural communities, and to start the process of voting on it a rooms. they had some ideas on business incen- few days later. There were no public hearings on the tives. So we said: We are going to find There was a whole new bill intro- specifics of this legislation, and people some common ground here. We are duced in the middle of our markup that wonder why the American people op- going to take good ideas from both turned the tax bill into a healthcare pose it. Republicans have chosen to ig- sides. bill—a healthcare bill—with a fresh at- nore them. They have chosen to ignore The tragedy of this bill is that Re- tack on the Affordable Care Act. There them. What is happening is un-Demo- publicans wouldn’t build on the good was another set of last-second changes cratic. It is wrong. I am here to say work of the 2015 tax legislation, where introduced literally minutes before the that this vote will not be forgotten. good ideas were accepted from both final committee votes happened. The I yield the floor. sides. This time around, there was zero bill makes $10 trillion in tax policy The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. outreach from Republicans on this changes, and there was never a single STRANGE). The Senator from Utah. issue. There was not one moment when hearing on the specifics of the legisla- Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, the Sen- Republicans actually shared even a tion. ate will soon vote on the conference re- piece of paper or a document about Let me just repeat that. I want the port for H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts and Jobs ideas that might bring both sides to- public to know that. There was never a Act. I have waited a long time to give gether. In fact, we can go all the way single hearing—not one—on the spe- this final statement in support of tax back to November 2016. They were still cifics of this legislation. reform legislation. putting the voting machines back into We are going to hear on all points a (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- storage when the first whispers began push by my colleagues on the other leries.) about tax reform happening through a side to say that there were 70 hearings. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Ser- completely partisan process. Well, sure, there were people who geant at Arms will restore order in the Now, in coffee shops across America, would come in from time to time and Gallery. most folks are not talking about budg- talk about issues. There wasn’t one The Senator will suspend. et reconciliation. Budget reconcili- hearing—not one—on the specifics of Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, this fel- ation is Washington lingo for saying: the legislation. low has a very interesting way of try- We aren’t going to do this right; we are On the Senate floor, the Republicans ing to get his point of view across. It just going to make it our way, par- played hide the ball for days until they shouldn’t be done here in this august tisan, with no effort to try to bring dropped the final version of their bill body. people together. And after those whis- late at night on a Friday. Two full days Let me just start again. pers in November of 2016, within days, of debate had already passed, and the The Senate will soon vote on the con- Chairman ENZI, the chairman of the final bill was a mystery. ference report for H.R. 1, the Tax Cuts Budget Committee, and my good I stood here hour after hour asking and Jobs Act. I have waited a long time friend, Senator HATCH, the chairman of where the bill was—an economy-trans- to be able to give this final statement the Finance Committee, and everybody forming bill, a tax hike on tens of mil- in support of tax reform legislation. is on board. I have been in the Senate for a little Then, the majority leader, in Decem- lions of middle-class Americans. Yet while. I have been party to a number of ber of 2016, made it official: We weren’t Republicans kept it hidden until the major legislative achievements, like going to build on the history of suc- very last second. When it was revealed the passage of the Americans with Dis- cessful tax reform, which required to the public, we saw my colleague, bringing both sides together; the ma- Senator DURBIN from Illinois, holding abilities Act, the creation of the CHIP jority leader said that we are going it up with illegible notes scrawled in program, the Child Health Insurance with reconciliation and partisanship. margins. It wasn’t anywhere near Program, and the Religious Freedom Reconciliation is a full-on rejection of enough time for any Member of this Restoration Act, to name just a few. the history of successful tax reform, body to read the bill and grasp each of These are landmark bills, and I have and it is a full-on rejection of biparti- its provisions. had a lot to do with them. sanship. It is the majority saying to Even the conference committee was The legislation before us is as impor- the minority, as was the case: We just an exercise in reckless partisanship. tant and as far-reaching as anything I don’t want your ideas because we don’t News reports said that Republicans had have been privileged to work on. It is need your votes. When you look at the agreed to a final bill, but they were beyond gratifying to see the Senate way this debate played out, it is obvi- empty-handed at the only official con- reach this point, and I look forward to ous that has been exactly the approach ference meeting. So what was going on finally seeing real tax legislation my Republican colleagues have taken. at this so-called conference meeting? signed into law. The administration’s first tax out- This was, I guess, a reality show I apologize for this type of intem- line, which was shorter than your typ- version of a conference committee. The perate action and mouthing off inside ical drugstore receipt, didn’t contain conferees were supposed to ask ques- of this august Chamber. People feel an ounce of Democratic input. Then, tions about out-of-date plans from the very deeply about these things on both what we had with the Republicans were other body, in the Senate, when the ac- sides of the issues. the closed-door meetings of what they tual, final bill was still locked behind Passage of this important bill will be called the Big 6, a Republican-only closed doors. historic. It is the combination of years group who turned their outline into a The chairman didn’t allow any mo- of work by people in both parties, in framework for a bill. The framework tions or any amendments. Just like both Chambers, and on both sides of they released, which was roughly the every other step in the process, this Pennsylvania Avenue. Many of us in same size as your typical drugstore re- was a sham debate, and now the bill is this body have been waiting for years ceipt, still reflected no Democratic a few hours away from passage. for this opportunity, and millions of ideas. I close with this: This bill has the Americans outside of this body have Everybody knew that if we did it this power to reshape the American econ- been waiting even longer. kind of way, the public was going to omy in far-reaching and unforeseen It is no secret that our Tax Code is catch on. They were going to see this ways. It has the power to send families broken. Members of both parties have as a con job and they were going to into economic hardship. It has the acknowledged this. If you walked catch on that this is going to give the power to threaten this country’s abil- across the country and asked Ameri- middle class the shaft, so they decided ity to uphold the special promises of cans of all backgrounds and ideologies, that they just have to move at the Medicare, Medicaid, and Social Secu- you wouldn’t find many who would be speed of light. That is what the House rity. And this bill was written in the willing to defend the status quo. I don’t did. shadows, written in the dark, with bil- think you would find anybody.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.030 S19DEPT1 S8092 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 There is one apt phrase my good the Senate Finance Committee have at means that an average American fam- friend Senator WYDEN uses to describe some point in the recent past endorsed ily will be able to keep $2,058 more of our Tax Code. He calls it ‘‘a dying car- a significant reduction in the U.S. cor- their own earnings next year. That is a cass.’’ Indeed, our Tax Code is dying porate tax rate. mortgage payment, a downpayment for and rotting. It has hampered job cre- Our bill will achieve this bipartisan a car, or several months’ worth of gro- ation, wage growth, investment in the goal and place our country well within ceries. United States, and it has chased Amer- the mainstream among our inter- What about a single parent? Under ican companies to foreign shores. I national competitors. This is a good our plan, a single parent with one don’t know how it could be more harm- thing—not just for businesses and rich child, making $41,000, will see their ful than it has been. It has also given stockholders but for working, middle- taxes slashed by nearly 73 percent. foreign companies a leg up on U.S. class families as well. That is almost a three-quarter reduc- businesses in the global marketplace, Let’s be clear. This bill’s chief focus tion in tax liability. That means a sav- leading to a record number of foreign is about helping the middle class. I ings of more than $1,300 over the course takeovers and inversions. The bill be- know there is a tendency among some of a year. That could be a month of fore us will address these problems and in this Chamber to act and speak as daycare expenses, multiple car pay- help us turn the ship around. though all money in this country in- ments, or a family vacation. Our legislation will reduce the cor- herently belongs to the government. I These are things that matter to porate tax rate to 21 percent—some- won’t speak for everyone, but those of American families, and they well thing that is long overdue—the lowest us who have worked on this bill tend to should. But our friends on the other level in the modern history of the think differently. side have been so caught up in partisan United States, placing our country Aside from business reforms that will politics that they decided to ignore the slightly below the average of industri- grow our economy, increase wages, and Americans who will benefit from this alized countries. These changes will create jobs, our bill will lower indi- legislation. I think it started with the once again give American companies a vidual tax rates across the board, al- election of President Trump and the re- competitive edge and bring more busi- lowing hard-working Americans to tention of Senate control by Repub- nesses back home instead of losing keep more of their money. In our bill, licans. Their base protested, occupied, them the way we have been. we also nearly double the standard de- and disrupted the transfer of power Hundreds of economists have said duction for individuals and married from President Obama to President that our bill will boost economic couples. This feature will significantly Trump. Here on the Hill, the ‘‘resist- growth, and numerous companies have reduce the burden of tax filing for mil- ance’’ was in full effect right off the indicated that once our bill becomes lions of middle-class families and de- bat, with a coordinated effort to stall law, they will invest heavily in expan- crease even further the overall tax li- nominations in committee, which in- sion and job creation right here in the ability of millions more. For the first cluded unprecedented boycotts and re- United States of America. time in more than 30 years, nearly fusals to meet with nominees. It has In addition, as the Joint Committee every American will get more money only gone downhill from there. on Taxation has made clear, reducing back by just filing out an EZ form. While we heard words from our the corporate tax rate has distribu- This, without a doubt, fulfills our goal friends on the other side about partici- tional effects that go beyond the com- of simplifying the Tax Code. pating in tax reform, their actions panies themselves, their high-ranking For individuals who are concerned showed otherwise. I don’t know how officers, or even their richest share- about being able to itemize—again, we they can stand here and make some of holders. In fact, JCT—the Joint Com- believe the number of people with this the arguments they do. Unprecedented mittee on Taxation—estimates that concern will decrease dramatically process demands were made. Resist- workers bear 25 percent of the cor- under our bill—we retain a number of ance was the plan, and that plan was porate tax rate and other economists key provisions that benefit many in carried out. Now we hear about mas- have found that this number can reach the middle class. For example, this his- sive tax cuts for the very rich and huge as high as 75 percent. This means that toric legislation will allow individuals breaks for corporations, but these no matter how you slice it, Americans and families to continue to claim de- claims fall apart when you look at the will see their wages go up when cor- ductions for State and local taxes, up facts. porate tax rates go down. to $10,000 a year. It will keep in place, Again, this isn’t unchartered terri- Further, over the last few decades, with relatively minor adjustments, the tory for my friends on the other side. we have seen a massive expansion of deduction for mortgage interest. And Accusing Republicans of hating the pension and retirement assets, much of Americans who itemize and want to de- poor and loving the rich is one of their which are invested in corporate stocks. duct their charitable deductions will be go-to moves. I have seen it for over 40 While many of my colleagues like to free to do so. This has made America years. Every time you turn around, decry any business from merely earn- great, and it has helped us at the same there is one of their go-to moves, and it ing a profit, the truth is that the con- time to be more charitable. We are also has nothing to do with reality. I do tinued rise in corporate profits has sig- expanding the child tax credit with think they are getting more desperate nificantly expanded the wealth of mid- this bill, doubling it from $1,000 to and vicious in their attacks because dle-class workers and taxpayers who $2,000 per child and making the credit they regret their own decisions to sit have continually set aside funds for the far more refundable than ever before. out of this endeavor. That is precisely future. The adoption credit will stay in place. how it happened. Our colleagues were A representative from the Tax Policy The deduction for medical expenses apparently so preoccupied with deny- Center testified before the Finance will still be available. Credits and as- ing President Trump and congressional Committee in the spring of last year. sistance for students and their families Republicans any success, they chose At that hearing he stated that 37 per- will be untouched. We have made all of not to engage and instead to sit in the cent of corporate stock ownership was these changes and, when necessary, peanut gallery throwing out baseless held in retirement plan accounts—37 preserved current law, with an eye to- attacks. percent. That was the largest share of ward helping the middle class. As I have said literally dozens of overall stock ownership, and that sta- I know a number of my colleagues times over the past few years, I wish tistic syncs up with the distribution like to argue that this bill will have the Democrats had joined us in this tables put out by the nonpartisan Joint different results. Let’s look at the process, put aside their ultimatums Committee on Taxation. numbers. and preconditions, and helped to ad- For all of these reasons, lowering the Under this bill, a typical family of vance policies that they have claimed corporate tax rate has been a bipar- four, earning the median family in- to support for years now. But we are tisan goal for over a decade now. I have come of $73,000, will see their taxes go where we are, and while the bill before said it before: Presidents Clinton and down by more than half—about 58 per- us includes a number of ideas and pro- Obama, Senators WYDEN and SCHUMER, cent. That number means something posals Democrats have supported, we and most of the other Democrats on more than just a simple percentage; it are prepared to pass it without their

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.031 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8093 votes, if that is what it takes. There We heard this loudmouth in the Gal- going to get to see that over the next have been some Democrats who have lery who has no good sense and a total couple of days. worked with us, but they have been few lack of etiquette and a total lack of re- I publicly want to thank Senator and far between. spect for this government and this Sen- HATCH for all he has done and all I Once again, this is a historic bill. I ate. If I were on his side, I would be hu- know he has done in Washington dur- am proud of the work we have done in miliated because he was just a big ing the last 3 years. In the 3 years on the Finance Committee, here on the loudmouth who didn’t mean a doggone this committee, I have seen us—Repub- floor, and in conference to get us to thing. Unfortunately, I think there are lican and Democratic committee and this point. I again invite our friends on more people like that who are so bitter subcommittee alike—work on every the other side to also support the bill. that they will raise these types of facet of the Tax Code to try to simplify I am proud of our colleagues who have issues without really trying to work changes down to doable amounts and put in so much effort to get us here. I together. doable jobs. I have seen everybody have am proud of the staff on Capitol Hill I am one who has a reputation for input. I have seen everybody work to- who have labored day and night to as- working together. I am chairman of gether. Sure, we have had differences. sist in this endeavor. the Finance Committee. I have enjoyed Senator HATCH has always kept the As I said, this legislation has been my work with the distinguished Demo- mainstream there, kept his hand on years in the making. I urge all of my cratic leader on the Finance Com- the tiller, and saw to it that we never colleagues to support the conference mittee, Senator WYDEN. I care for him. lost sight of doing what we need to do, report and help us send it to the Presi- I care for the other Democrats on the which is to reform our Tax Code. dent’s desk. You will not regret it. committee, as well as all of our Repub- I want to commend Senator HATCH Those who support this will not regret licans. We work pretty well together. and Senator ENZI, as well, for the work it. It is getting harder and harder to work they have done on the Budget Com- I think we ought to get rid of this ha- together when all we see are screaming mittee to get us to this point and the tred for Donald Trump that currently and shouting because they can’t get unsung heroes that all of us know exists in this country and in this body. their way because they are no longer in about, our staffs, whom we cannot do I think we should give the man a the majority. I hope they get over that, without. Jay Khosla and Mark Prater chance. He hasn’t even been President and I hope they start working with us. on the Finance Committee have been for a year yet. Give him a chance. Even If they will, we can do an awful lot of outstanding and have made this thing though he hasn’t been President for a good things for this country, and we work, and I commend them for their year yet, we have had some amazing can bring people together across this work. On my staff, I could not have changes in this country for the better, whole country—people who right now done what I have done without Amanda and I think we could have many more. Maddox, Trey Kilpatrick, Monica are divided because they don’t know What really interests me is that Don- McGuire, and Jay Sulzmann, who have what to do. They see us screaming and ald Trump, 6 or 7 years ago, was work- all worked hard to see to it that we shouting around here and a total lack ing with Democrats as well as Repub- made the right decisions for the right of willingness to get together. I would licans. He offered to work with the reasons for the people of Georgia. Democrats on these matters, and they like to change it. I am open to chang- I am very proud to be a part of this have not taken up the offer. Instead, it ing it. Senate today and of what is going to This bill that we have is a very, very is as though they are still bitter be- prove to be a historic day in the future. cause he beat their candidate for Presi- important bill, and we need to pass it. There are a lot of naysayers saying dent. My friends on the other side need to re- that this is not going to work. There I would like to have us get over that alize that, and I hope we will get some are a lot of people who have come up to type of petty politics and see what we of them to vote for it. They know it is me today and have asked questions can do to work together. Heaven right. Deep down, they know it is right. that have bad connotations to them. knows, on the Finance Committee, I It might not be everything they like Yet I want, for just a minute, to talk believe we have good Democrats on themselves. It is not everything I my- about what I think this tax bill really that committee, as well as good Repub- self would like. But it is a doggone means for the American people—for the licans, and I think we can work to- good bill, and it is something that folks who voted for me to represent gether. I have to say, I don’t think we could really help this country pull out them—and for what is going to happen have as well as we should, but I think of the mess that it is in. in the years ahead. we can, and I am hopeful that we will. Mr. President, I yield the floor. I had a reporter stop me today while This is an important bill. It is a bill The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. I was coming up to the floor. that really does need to pass. It is a JOHNSON). The Senator from Georgia. He asked: Senator ISAKSON, where are bill that will help this country. It is a Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. President, am I you going to find the $1.478 trillion bill that will help the middle class. In next? that you all are costing us by passing fact, it is going to help everybody, but I see the distinguished Senator from this tax cut? it will certainly help the middle class Washington on the floor. I ask unani- I said: First of all, we have not lost most of all. mous consent that after I speak, she be the money. Second of all, that is a I hope our colleagues put aside their recognized to speak. static score. Third of all, I will be will- petty politics on both sides and come The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without ing to bet you that we will take in a together to support this bill, which lit- objection, it is so ordered. lot more money because of our having erally can help save this country an Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. President, I would a dynamic economy than we will ever awful lot of pain over the next number like to take a moment to commend lose with a single tax cut. of years and give the government the Senator ORRIN HATCH. I listened to the There are some people whose thought kinds of resources that it needs to be debate over this bill not just today but process is one of tunnel vision. They able to do what the Federal Govern- for the better part of 3 years I have can’t see outside the blinders. They ment needs to do for its people. I think been a member of the Finance Com- don’t understand that tax policy drives we can. mittee. I have never heard a more dig- economic decisions. People in this body know that I have nified, deliberate, intelligent delivery There are companies that in the last spent years here. I am the most senior on any subject than we all just heard few years had been thinking about Republican. I have been here longer from ORRIN HATCH on the tax bill. Re- leaving America because of our tax than any other Republican that I know gardless of your politics, regardless of rate that are now deciding to stay be- of, and I have the legislative record to where you are from, it is good to know cause of the new change. Don’t under- back it up—a record that has included that America has dignified statesmen estimate the power of the territorial working with Democrats almost every like ORRIN HATCH to take the tougher tax change that this makes for Amer- step of the way. I am offering to make issues, simplify them, get people to ican business. sure we work together, but I haven’t join hands, work together, and pass A lot of CEOs who go to their annual seen it on the other side. Can they get what is right for the American people. stockholder meetings for C corpora- over the bitterness they have? I am glad the American people are tions in America have to go with a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.033 S19DEPT1 S8094 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 game plan to raise the return on their them a chance to expand their personal The Congressional Budget Office esti- stocks in order to have people invest in opportunities. I will bet on them that mates that drilling for oil in the Arctic their companies. Unfortunately, the they are willing to move forward with Refuge will raise less than $1 billion easiest way to raise the return on their a better tax code for all of the country. over 10 years. This doesn’t even meet stock today would be for a domestic I will make my bet on them that they the $1 billion reconciliation instruc- American company to move their head- will want to see to it that their chil- tion, and it certainly doesn’t represent quarters out of the United States to dren and their grandchildren will have a serious offset to the huge deficits in Ireland or to some other place that had the opportunities that they have had the bill. To put this in perspective, less a lower tax rate. If you put more as well. than seven one-hundredths of 1 percent money on the table for the stock- I thank Chairman HATCH for what he of the $1.5 trillion increase in the na- holders, it will be bad for the country, has done in the last 3 years to make tional debt will be from this policy in bad for your company, and bad for the this opportunity come about. this legislation. American people as jobs leave America. I thank the distinguished Senator Drilling in the Arctic really has Now that we have a territorial sys- from Washington and the Senator from nothing to do with serious budgetary tem that we are going to, there is an Alabama, whom, unfortunately, we are policy, but it has everything to do with incentive to stay in America if you are losing in the next few weeks, for what evading regular order to pass some- located there and to come to America they have put in this legislation. I thing that could never pass in the reg- if you are not. We are not going to thank them for what they have done in ular order of the legislative process. have any more fast food companies their looking out for their people. In addition to drilling in the Arctic that are buying doughnut makers in Did we make any mistakes? Maybe, National Wildlife Refuge, this bill Canada and then moving their head- but you never make mistakes when would sell 7 million barrels of oil from quarters to Canada to get a lower tax you are trying to do the right thing. our Nation’s Strategic Petroleum Re- rate. We are going to have a lot of new You never make mistakes when you serve. A portion of that sale is simply companies that will think about be- are trying to do a good thing. You to meet the reconciliation instruc- coming doughnut makers and will do it never make mistakes when you take a tions—that is to say, to make this bill risk because when you take a risk, at right here in the United States because work. Yet the sale of oil from our pe- the end of that rainbow is a reward. the new tax system we will have will be troleum reserve would also provide a When you take a risk in lowering fair and equitable for economic devel- $300 million windfall to four States— taxes, the greater reward is more jobs, opment and building growth. Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Ala- On the personal side, you really can- more opportunity, and a better Amer- bama. So this bill is selling off oil in not argue with doubling the standard ica for our children and our grand- order to pay for oil drilling in the Arc- deduction. You can’t argue with dou- children. tic National Wildlife Refuge. I do not I thank Senator HATCH for his work bling of the child tax credit. You can’t believe that that makes sense. and for all that he has done to make argue with simplifying the tax process Under this sham process, the bill will America a better country and, in par- itself and the filing of taxes. You can’t turn one of our Nation’s wildest and ticular, for giving us the chance today argue with lowering rates—having most pristine areas into an oil field. to make our tax system fairer for all of seven different rate categories that are The Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is the American people. the largest refuge in our Nation and is all lowered. You can’t really argue May God bless him. with all of that because you know that I yield the floor. one of the crown jewels for us in the is better for the American people and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- United States for wildlife refuges. I be- their pocketbooks in the short run, but ator from Washington. lieve it is a U.S. Serengeti. in the long run, it will be better for Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, I We received a letter from Jane them and their children and their come to the floor to speak about this Goodall, who basically said: grandchildren in terms of employment. legislation. Around the globe so many indigenous peo- I have eight grandchildren. My oldest At the outset, I thank my colleague ple have been harmed in the name of just graduated from college, and the from Georgia and the Senator from ‘‘progress’’—let us not add one more tragedy to the list. We have other sources of energy. youngest is 9. In the years ahead—and Utah for their work on the affordable I hope that I will get to see a lot of housing tax credit. The Senator from I ask unanimous consent that the en- them—they are going to get jobs, and Utah said: Let’s work together. I stand tire letter we received from the Jane they are going to work. They are going ready to work with him on affordable Goodall Institute be printed in the to raise their families. housing in the future, and, hopefully, RECORD. What we have done today is going to with the Senator from Georgia, we can There being no objection, the mate- make it easier for them to find employ- make progress on what is a crisis in rial was ordered to be printed in the ment for their kids, opportunity to de- America. RECORD, as follows: velop businesses, and peace of mind be- I come to speak in opposition to the THE JANE GOODALL INSTITUTE, cause they will live in a country that legislation before us today, the tax rec- Vienna, VA, November 14, 2017. will be vibrant and true. DEAR UNITED STATES SENATOR: It seems onciliation bill. that each day brings ever more dire news For those who want to ask what we One of the requirements of the legis- about what we humans are doing to harm are going to do about the money that lation that I most ardently oppose is our planet, the animals that share it with us we are giving up, I don’t deal with stat- including the Arctic National Wildlife and, by doing so, harming ourselves also. ic scoring; I deal with dynamic scoring. Refuge for oil and gas development. You have an important opportunity to make When I ran a company for 25 years, I Basically, this bill pays for the tax a difference both now, and for future genera- made investments where I knew I had a cuts for corporations and millionaires tions, by voting to oppose oil development in place to grow. I made business deci- by raising taxes on the middle class, one of the world’s most spectacular wilder- sions where there was positive growth undermining healthcare, and requiring ness areas—the Arctic National Wildlife Ref- uge. ahead if I made the right decision. This oil drilling in one of our Nation’s most This Refuge is a truly wonderful place— Tax Code—this change in the Tax Code, iconic national wildlife refuges. nearly 20 million acres of pristine and eco- this opportunity that we have—does all Everyone should understand that a logically significant habitat. There is com- of those things. vote for this reconciliation bill is a pelling scientific evidence as to why it is Do I know exactly what is going to vote that will go to the biological truly important to protect this place. For happen? No, but I am willing to bet— heart of the Arctic National Wildlife one thing, it provides key breeding habitat and I have bet my vote already in com- Refuge and require drilling. I believe for the millions-upon-millions of birds that mittee and will later on tonight on the that opening up the Arctic Refuge to migrate there from six of our planet’s seven floor of the Senate—on the American oil drilling is being done as a supposed continents. It is also a calving ground for the 200,000-strong Porcupine caribou herd. And it people and the American worker and revenue raiser to offset the soaring is one of the most important denning habi- the American entrepreneur. I will bet costs of this tax bill for corporations tats on earth for polar bears. Moreover it on their taking advantage of a tax code and the wealthy, but the process that plays a significant role in helping to protect that is fair to them and that gives it went through is a sham. us from the onslaught of climate change.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.034 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8095 But the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is laws or to protect wildlife. Its spon- I think that this herd of caribou is so more than that. Its very wildness speaks to sors, however, say that they are not important because scientists say that our deeply rooted spiritual connection to na- preempting environmental laws and it has an entirely different kind of mi- ture, a necessary element of the human psy- che. The Gwich’in people understand this that, in fact, laws like the National gration pattern than other caribou in and call the area ‘‘The Sacred Place Where Environmental Policy Act will ‘‘fully Alaska, that it has been adept at deal- Life Begins’’. apply.’’ Yet this bill undercuts those ing with the adaptation that comes If we violate the Arctic Refuge by extract- assurances of compliance with environ- along with climate change. ing the oil beneath the land, this will have mental laws by adding oil development Why not, instead of ruining their devastating impact for the Gwich’in people as a purpose of the Arctic National habitat, study and understand this mi- for they depend upon the caribou herds to gration that has been studied since the sustain their traditional way of life. Around Wildlife Refuge. Adding oil develop- the globe so many indigenous people have ment as a purpose is contrary to the 1950s? It has been part of our national been harmed in the name of ‘progress’—let purpose of a wildlife refuge. investment in understanding wildlife. us not add one more tragedy to the list. We The purpose of a wildlife refuge is to It has been supported by both Demo- have other sources of energy. protect wildlife and to make sure that cratic and Republican administrations, And so I beg you: Please use your voice and the managers of wildlife do so in a to understand the science and back- your vote as a U.S. Senator to protect the sound fashion. ground of this caribou herd. These car- Gwich’in people and the American treasure that is the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. At every other wildlife refuge in the ibou are an important food source for America has helped lead the world in the country, development within the ref- many Alaska Natives but in particular conservation of wildlife and your voice has uge is only permitted to the extent the Gwich’in people who live south of been so meaningful in this regard, your ex- that it is compatible with protecting the Refuge. Wildlife biologists argue ample so powerful. Please take this oppor- wildlife. This bill tries to waive one of that the risk to the caribou herd and to tunity to demonstrate your commitment to the most important management pro- those who rely on them could be quite the natural world and to future generations and stand with me to protect the Arctic Na- tections that applies to every other na- significant. tional Wildlife Refuge. tional wildlife refuge—that develop- So why are we doing this? Why are Please vote against oil development in the ment must be compatible with pro- we doing this? Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. tecting wildlife. They have to do this The last few years have been a dif- Sincerely, because they know that oil and gas de- ficult budget situation in Alaska. Rely- JANE GOODALL, DBE, PhD, velopment in the Arctic National Wild- ing on oil for 90 percent of the budget, Founder—the Jane Goodall Institute, life Refuge is not compatible. It is just I agree with many others, is & UN Messenger of Peace. the opposite. unsustainable. Every dollar the price of Ms. CANTWELL. Mr. President, the It is important to note also that this oil per barrel drops, reduces the State U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, which bill does not provide any energy secu- budget by $30 million, or close to 1 per- manages the refuge, describes it as rity. There is no prohibition in the bill centage point per dollar. The general ‘‘the only conservation system unit against exporting oil from the Arctic revenue fund in Alaska dropped over 80 that protects, in an undisturbed condi- National Wildlife Refuge, and in all percent after 2012, and that situation tion, a complete spectrum of the Arctic likelihood, much of the oil will be ex- caused Alaska’s $4 billion deficit pro- ecosystems in North America.’’ It is ported. jection last year. Difficult choices had home to an incredible diversity of wild- In addition to opening up the Arctic to be made about taxes, savings, spend- life—47 different species of mammals, National Wildlife Refuge to developing, and what the State government including polar bears, grizzly bears, ment, the bill also requires the sale of should do. Thankfully, their economy wolves, Dall sheep, moose, musk ox, 7 million barrels of oil from the Stra- hasn’t collapsed, but in the last big oil- and caribou. The Arctic National Wild- tegic Petroleum Reserve to give $300 driven recession in the 1980s, Alaska’s life Refuge also provides important million, as I mentioned earlier, to sev- banks failed, housing prices collapsed, habitat for over 40 species of fish and eral States—Texas, Louisiana, Mis- and 15 percent of the population left. more than 200 species of migratory sissippi, and Alabama. Why am I bringing this up? Because birds. So at the same time as we are being the good news is today’s Alaska econ- So why would we want to destroy told that we must ruin a national wild- omy is more diverse than it was 30 this refuge? life refuge because we need the oil, we It was first established by the Eisen- years ago. I know this because I talk to are selling oil out of the Strategic Pe- hower administration. Congress later my colleagues and because we are protected this amazing Arctic area and troleum Reserve. It does not make interacting in a lot of ways in the Pa- its ecosystem in order to protect the sense for America. It just doesn’t add cific Northwest. Alaska is well known for its tourism. wildlife and protect the habitat be- up. The impact of oil and gas exploration Two million visitors to Alaska spend cause of its incredible diversity. The in the wildlife area and the danger to Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is real- $1,000 per person in the State, sup- ly known as the ‘‘last great wilder- our wildlife cannot be overstated. The porting a $7.3 billion outdoor industry. ness’’ in our country, one of the great, Arctic National Wildlife Refuge’s My colleagues here may not realize last wild places, but this legislation coastal plain and nearby waters are what my colleagues from Alaska and turns that on its head. designated as critical habitat for polar Washington know, and that is that the It would make oil and gas develop- bears, which are listed as a threatened State of Alaska and Washington have a ment one of the statutory purposes of species under the Endangered Species lot of interdependence. A recent study the Wildlife Refuge, and under this leg- Act. Female polar bears head to the found that 113,000 jobs in Puget Sound islation, this Refuge would become the Arctic Refuge’s coastal plain so that are tied to Alaska’s economy, and this only Refuge where oil and gas develop- they can create snow dens, where they number has doubled in the last 30 ment is required by law. It opens up give birth to their young. The Arctic years. the entire 1.5 million-acre coastal plain National Wildlife Refuge has a higher What are those jobs? One-quarter of for oil and gas exploration and requires concentration of polar bear denning those are in the seafood industry. Al- the leasing of at least 800,000 acres. It habitat than any other area on Alas- most 1,000 commercial-vessel owning requires the leasing of areas with the ka’s North Slope. fishermen who work in Alaska’s fish- highest oil and gas potential, no mat- The refuge is also the summer eries are part of the trade between us. ter the consequences for the wildlife or calving grounds for the porcupine car- The Alaska trade accounts for one in the environment. ibou herd. This herd’s range extends five containerized shipments through The bill requires that the Arctic Na- into Canada, and we actually have a the Port of Seattle and the Port of Ta- tional Wildlife Refuge be managed as a treaty between both of our countries to coma. Another 14,000 jobs are tied to petroleum reserve, which is unprece- protect this herd. The almost 200,000- passenger transportation to Alaska, in- dented, and it undercuts managing the member herd has an annual migration cluding 430,000 cruise ship passengers Refuge for wildlife. of hundreds of miles—and in some who come through Puget Sound every The bill includes no clear require- cases, thousands of miles—wintering in year. That is just one way of saying the ments to comply with environmental the south of the Refuge. Washington-Alaska economies are tied

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.003 S19DEPT1 S8096 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 together, and as a hub for Arctic com- from Washington State for her leader- They are seeing right through it— merce, I have worked with my col- ship on this incredibly important issue. through all the political noise, all of leagues Senator MURKOWSKI and Sen- If this tax bill weren’t terrible the incredible distractions, all the red ator SULLIVAN on issues such as new enough, it goes after one of the most herrings. The American public knows Coast Guard Arctic icebreakers that beautiful places on Earth, the Arctic this is a tax break for the wealthiest are so needed for the future. I have sup- National Wildlife Refuge. Drilling in people in our country and not for the ported more funding for demonstration the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge is middle class. Republicans are not even programs for renewable energy and nothing more than a Big Oil polar pay- trying to hide what they are doing any- microgrids in an effort to help the out. This isn’t about drilling oil; it is more. They are moving ahead with local economy. I feel the same way about drilling for votes. This isn’t reckless speed to pass this disaster of a about rural broadband across the Na- about crude oil; it is the crudest of pol- bill in the middle of the night, so that tion, and we want to make sure we are itics. is why we will all be back here in a few deploying and helping with everything We now have 41 cosponsors of my leg- hours, yet again, voting in the dead of we can to bring more connectivity to islation with Senator BENNET to per- night on a 500-page bill that has no Alaska, but I really question how open- manently protect the Arctic Refuge by hearings, no amendments, no real de- ing the Arctic Wildlife Refuge is a solu- designating it as a wilderness. That is bate because that is the only way you tion to these problems. enough to sustain a filibuster, and that can get a tax break for the upper first Even under CBO’s aggressive view, if is precisely why they are circum- percentile and the wealthiest corpora- leasing occurs in the Refuge, it will be venting the normal legislative process tions in the country while trying to many years before Alaskans see any by including it as a rider on a tax bill. market it as a tax break for the middle In reality, drilling turns this pristine significant revenue. So my colleagues class, when they know it is not. They wilderness into an industrialized should be aware that doubling down on know it, by the way. They know what wasteland. The Coastal Plain is the bi- oil by sacrificing one of the great wild- they are doing. life refuges will not, in my opinion, ological heart of the Arctic Refuge, and It is the height of irony that we will help close Alaska’s budget deficit, and allowing oil and gas drilling would be here tonight ramming through legis- it will not help them diversify for the drive a stake right through the heart lation before the Senator-elect from future. of it. the State of Alabama can be seated. We are currently sending nearly 1 This Arctic Wildlife Refuge is too Just 8 years ago, Republicans called on million barrels a day of American special, too important. It is one of the Democrats to stop progress on the Af- crude oil overseas, but Republicans and crown jewels of our National Wildlife fordable Care Act until Senator Scott Refuge system. We should be pre- the their oil industry allies are saying we need to allow drilling in the wildest Brown was sworn in. They said at the serving it. We should not be destroying time: Stop progress. Don’t do anything. it. We should not be turning it into an place left in America so we can export even more oil to China and other for- We need to wait for Scott Brown to oilfield. show up. Back then, Democrats lis- I am reminded that many people over eign nations. It is an abomination. It is tened to those calls, but when DOUG many decades have fought for this a disgrace. Drilling in a wilderness area JONES gets elected, it is just put your great area of our country, to maintain in order to send oil to China—it is a foot to the accelerator, move as fast as its environmental stewardship, start- disgrace. If the Republicans persist in ing with Olaus Murie, who went there passing this monstrosity of a tax bill you can, no hearings, no anything, and and did great explorations and con- and pass this Big Oil polar payout, Alabama will not be represented with vinced many people here in this Wash- they are the ones who are going to be their new Senator out here. Back then, ington that it was something so special left out in the cold in 2018. Democrats actually listened to those and worth preserving. If the Republicans want to see what calls, and today our concerns are com- After decades of his scientific explo- real wilderness looks like, they don’t pletely ignored by the Republicans, all ration in Alaska, Olaus testified in 1959 need to travel to the Arctic Refuge, the so they can continue playing their con in support of creating the Arctic Wild- wilderness is about to come to them. game on the American people. life Refuge. He said: ‘‘We long for They are about to be sent deep into the The American people are waking up something more, something that has a political wilderness if they pass this to the fact that they have been sold a mental, a spiritual impact on us. This tax scam legislation. bill of goods. They are seeing that this idealism, more than anything else, will If the Republicans are successful in plan is simply a Trojan horse of give- set us apart as a nation striving for ramming through the Arctic drilling aways to the wealthy corporations and something worthwhile in the uni- rider in the dead of night, we will never Republican political donors. verse.’’ give up. We will keep fighting because What are some of those giveaways? So what is setting us apart today? the Arctic Refuge should forever be the Front and center is the massive cut in Some very short-term gains. In 100 home for caribou, not crude; bears, not tax rates for megacorporations. We years, when this economic tax bill will barrels of oil; sandpipers, not pipelines. know this will not create jobs or trick- long be forgotten, the question will be We will never stop fighting. le down to their employees because we whether something important in the They may win tonight in the dark of have tried it before. In 2004, we gave a universe still exists in the Arctic wild- night, but this fight is not over. This is massive tax holiday for huge corpora- life area. We didn’t create the Arctic a crime against the environment which tions on the money they held overseas, Coastal Plain, but I can state this: We is being committed here tonight. We do but the 15 companies that benefited the cannot recreate it. What we are doing not have to sacrifice this wilderness. most from those giveaways cut more today is taking a step toward destroy- We are exporting oil out of our coun- than 20,000 jobs and decreased their re- ing it. try—exporting it. We don’t have to go search spending. I urge my colleagues to oppose this here. Export more oil, and that is Mark Twain said: ‘‘History doesn’t reconciliation bill. Do not sacrifice the where it is going? It is just wrong. repeat itself, but it does tend to Arctic Wildlife Refuge to oil develop- Just remember that this is all a part rhyme.’’ This tends to rhyme. The tax ment. Don’t take one of the great, of the so-called Republican reconcili- cuts in this bill are even more egre- wild, pristine places on this planet and ation process. Now that we have the gious. Corporate tax cuts flow to CEOs turn it into an oilfield. We can do bet- final product, that process is being ex- and stockholders. Those stockholders ter as a nation. I know we can do bet- posed as the giant con game it truly is. are not all American taxpayers. For- ter as a region, and we can do better The key phrase in reconciliation is eigners hold 35 percent of U.S. cor- with a better Arctic strategy for our ‘‘con.’’ It is a con job. The whole thing porate stock. That means the Repub- Nation’s future. is nothing more than a masquerade, a lican tax bill is a giveaway of $48 bil- I yield the floor. Trojan horse in order to get a tax cut lion to foreigners in 2019 alone. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- for the upper first percentile. It is a Think about this. The Republicans ator from Massachusetts. con job. can find $48 billion to give away to for- Mr. MARKEY. Mr. President, thank The polling in our country says the eign shareholders but in the same bill you, and I thank the great Senator American people are not buying it. raise taxes on millions of middle-class

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.037 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8097 families. By 2027, this bill will raise these programs, and now they believe to the full committee, and those rec- taxes on over 53 percent of American they can leave them as debt-soaked ommendations today serve as the foun- households. At the same time, a full 83 relics of what they are today by cre- dation for the legislation we are con- percent of the tax cuts will flow to the ating this huge debt in this tax bill and sidering. That was a bipartisan process, top 1 percent of Americans. So the then turning on the very programs for and the Democrats participated in more the American people see what is the very people who made this country that. A lot of the suggestions are bipar- in this bill, the more they realize they what it is today. tisan ideas. The foundation for this leg- will have to foot the bill, and the I urge a ‘‘no’’ vote on this bill. It will islation frankly, in many respects, American people are saying ‘‘No way.’’ go down in history as one of the worst originated with those working groups New polls today show that over half single pieces of legislation ever to be that were worked upon by both Repub- of the American public opposes this considered by the U.S. Senate. licans and Democrats. So we stand here bill; two-thirds of the people recognize The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- today with a piece of legislation that that the bill will benefit the wealthy ator from South Dakota. has a lot of bipartisan substance in it, over the middle class; and, according to Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, relief for even though the Democrats have re- the polls, the only thing more unpopu- Americans is on the way. This evening, fused to participate in the process. lar than this tax plan is President we will vote on the first comprehensive We started out with two major goals Trump himself. But the Republicans overhaul of our Tax Code since 1986. In on tax reform. One was to put more will push ahead anyway since this is all 1986, I was a young Senate staffer. I money in the pockets of hard-working part of the bigger con game. When watched as that tax bill passed on the Americans and to create a tax code these tax giveaways pass, the deficit floor of the U.S. Senate. I was a 25- that would foster economic growth and will explode by over $2 trillion. year-old staffer back then. make American companies competitive Republicans aren’t even waiting for In a couple of weeks, my wife and I again in the global marketplace. Those those deficits to become reality before will welcome our third grandchild into are the two goals. The bill before us using them as an excuse to move to the the world, so it seems only fitting, today—the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act— next phase of the con game. They are after 30 years, that we go about the succeeds on both fronts. already using future deficits to justify business of reforming the Tax Code be- The bill provides immediate, direct a brutal, vicious cut to programs for cause a lot has changed in this coun- relief for hard-working Americans, the poorest, for the sickest, for the try. A lot has changed in this country starting next month. It lowers tax neediest people in our country. Earlier in the past 30 years, but the one thing rates for Americans in every income this month, Speaker RYAN said, ‘‘We’re that hasn’t changed is the Tax Code. bracket. It nearly doubles the standard going to have to get back next year at Our Tax Code needs to be updated and deduction, simplifying the code, mean- entitlement reform, which is how you modernized to reflect the times in ing that fewer people will have to tackle the debt and the deficit.’’ We which we live. itemize. Across the country, it varies know exactly what Republicans mean Since President Reagan signed the State by State, but, on average, less when they talk about entitlement re- last overhaul into law, our Tax Code than one-third of the people across the form. They mean taking a machete to has ballooned into an unwieldy, com- country itemize today. Well, this will the programs that working and middle- plex maze that costs American tax- reduce that number even further. Less class families in America rely upon. payers an incredible amount of time than 10 percent of the people in this Republicans want nothing more than and money and acts as a drag on eco- country will have to itemize because of an excuse to slash Medicare and make nomic growth and job creation. the doubling—or near doubling—of the it harder for Grandma to buy her medi- I will say that when I was elected to standard deduction. It doubles the cine. They want the ability to gut Med- the Senate, I came here, as most of us child tax credit and significantly in- icaid because, in their opinion, do, wanting to do big things. We want creases the refundable portion of the healthcare is only a right for the to do consequential things. We want to credit, which will provide important wealthy. They want to cover their his- do things that will impact the Amer- additional help for low-income fami- torical enmity toward Social Security ican people in a beneficial and a posi- lies, and it maintains the earned-in- so that they can steal benefits from tive way, and that is certainly the case come tax credit. every American who has paid into that with tax reform. I sought to get on the All of this means that American fam- system, and they are doing this be- Senate Finance Committee for that ilies are going to see a significant drop cause the modern Republican Party reason. The Senate Finance Committee in their tax bills for next year. Just as has a sacred obligation to their do- has jurisdiction over tax, trade, a case in point, a family of four with a nors—to the Koch brothers, to the mas- healthcare, and issues that really im- combined annual income of $73,000 per sive corporations that help fund their pact and affect the American people’s year will see a tax cut of over $2,000, campaigns. They promised them tax everyday lives. and that represents a 58-percent reduc- breaks, and it will be average working In 2011, I had the good fortune of get- tion over what they are paying today families who will end up footing the ting on the committee, and ever since under current law. If you are a single bill. When the bill becomes due, the that time we have been working ag- parent with one child and have an in- American people will not forget who gressively, planning for this very day. come of $41,000, you are going to see a sent it to them. The suggestion by our colleagues on $1,300 reduction in your taxes, which Here we are at the end of the year. the other side that somehow this represents a 73-percent reduction over We have truly important issues to ad- cropped up all of a sudden, overnight, what you are paying today under cur- dress. We need to fund healthcare for 9 is absolutely inconsistent with the rent law. million children, ensure that commu- facts. Since I got on the Finance Com- So the idea, as has been advanced by nity health centers can keep the lights mittee in 2011, we have had no fewer the other side, that somehow middle- on, secure the dreams of 800,000 young than 70 hearings on tax reform and tax- income taxpayers don’t benefit from Dreamers, and combat the crises that related issues. this is absolutely false. It is inaccurate American communities face from In 2015, the chairman of the com- because these are objective facts. A opioids and natural disasters. Sadly, mittee, Senator HATCH, created five doubling of the standard deduction, a we are doing none of those things. In- working groups. I was fortunate doubling of the child tax credit, and a stead, we are looting America’s middle enough to chair one of those working reduction in rates mean that people in class to give away massive amounts of groups. They were bipartisan, and they all income groups are going to see sig- money to the rich, which will then cre- were tasked with looking at all aspects nificant tax relief. Just to put a fine ate deficits, which will then have them of the Tax Code, broken down into five point on that, this is based on the lat- going after Medicare, Medicaid, and different sections, and making rec- est analysis by the Joint Committee on Social Security—Grandma and ommendations for tax reform. We went Taxation. They assess and look at how Grandpa, who built this country. That about that in a very diligent way. We these proposals will translate in terms has always been their plan. They have spent weeks and months developing of income groups and who gets im- an ancient animosity toward all of ideas, reported those recommendations pacted by that.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:08 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.038 S19DEPT1 S8098 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 I want to point out that if you look earlier; that is, let’s put it into lan- tax rates and provisions that discour- at income by level here—different guage that people in this country un- age growth and drive those good-pay- groups and their incomes—as you can derstand. When they do their taxes, ing jobs overseas. Plus, our outdated see, every income group receives a sig- they are going to see a doubling of the tax structure has left American busi- nificant tax cut. In fact, lower income standard deduction and they are going nesses at a competitive disadvantage in Americans receive the largest tax cuts, to see a doubling of the child tax cred- the global economy. and that, again, is according to the it. If you are a family with kids in this This legislation changes all of that. Joint Committee on Taxation. The country, that means that for every This bill lowers tax rates across the point made earlier by my colleague child you have, instead of getting a board for small and medium-size busi- from the other side was that somehow $1,000 child tax credit, you will get a nesses, farms, and ranches. It provides this was going to be a huge tax shift in $2,000 child tax credit. Couple that with a 20-percent deduction on passthrough terms of who is going to pay taxes the lower rates—and the marginal income, reducing the top effective tax after all this is said and done. Well, if rates are going to be a 10-percent rate, rate on this income to no more than you look at the tax burden—and by a 12-percent rate—and where those 29.6 percent. It permits businesses with that I mean who pays taxes in this kick in at different brackets, you are gross receipts of up to $25 million to country, the share of taxes currently going to see a significant reduction in use the cash method of accounting and borne by each different income cat- taxes across all income groups. That is to expense their inventory costs. It al- egory—as you see from this chart, just the reality. I think it is important lows businesses to expense new invest- which is broken down by quadrant, 25 that we at least, as we are talking ments in machinery, equipment, and percent of the filers are in this cat- about this subject, talk about it in building improvements. And it expands egory, 25 percent in this category, and terms of the facts. the amount of startup and organiza- 25 percent with $50,000 to $100,000 in in- The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act also pre- tional expenses that new businesses come, and then the final quadrant of 25 serves elements of the current Tax can write off up front, freeing up cash percent is those making $100,000 and Code that have been working for Amer- flow to get the business up and run- above. Well, if you look at those in the icans. Under this bill, homeowners and ning. lower income categories—and this is those aspiring to own a home will still Accelerating businesses’ ability to according to the Joint Committee on be able to deduct their mortgage inter- recover the money they invested in Taxation—their share of the tax bur- est if they itemize on their taxes. Indi- things like property, equipment, and den relative to what it is today is actu- viduals who donate to charities, to inventory will encourage new business ally the same or lower. So those in churches, and educational institutions growth and help existing businesses— lower income categories, those making will still be able to claim those con- including farms and ranches—expand $20,000 to $50,000 a year—and that rep- tributions as an itemized deduction. their operations, create new jobs, and resents about 25 percent of filers Working Americans will retain all the grow the economy. today—pay 4.3 percent of total taxes in current options for saving for retire- The bill also helps family-owned this country. After implementation of ment, from individual retirement ac- businesses, farms, and ranches by pro- the bill, they will pay 4.1 percent of counts to the various types of em- viding substantial relief from the death total taxes in this country. Their over- ployer-provided retirement plans, like tax. I would have preferred to elimi- all tax burden will have decreased after 401(k)s. nate what I think is a confiscatory tax passage of this legislation. This bill also provides families with once and for all. But in this legislation, If you take the next category, from permanent relief from ObamaCare’s we double the current exemption to $50,000 to $100,000, they pay today, burdensome individual mandate, which over $11 million, and by doing that, under current law, 16.9 percent of the is a tax on lower income Americans. this bill will take a vast majority of total tax burden in this country. After Under the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, family-owned businesses, farms, and this legislation has passed, they will be Americans will no longer be required to ranches out of the tax’s crosshairs. Too paying 16.9 percent of the total tax bur- buy health insurance that they don’t many of these businesses have wasted den in this country. want and can’t afford or face signifi- tens of thousands of dollars a year on What about those making $100,000 a cant financial penalties, which today costly estate planning simply to avoid year and more, which represents about disproportionately fall on those who the death tax and preserve that family 25 percent of all filers? Well, according make less than $50,000 a year. business for another generation. That to the Joint Committee on Taxation, This bill also restores the deduction is money that these individuals would on which these distribution tables are for major medical expenses to where it rather be investing in their businesses based, those in that income category was before ObamaCare. For this year and their workers. This legislation al- who are paying today 78.7 percent of all and next, Americans facing the burden lows these businesses to save critical the taxes in this country—after this is of significant medical expenses will capital for their businesses instead of passed, they will pay 79.1 percent. So once again be able to deduct any ex- forcing them to spend it to protect their overall tax burden actually goes penses that exceed 7.5 percent of their themselves from the heavy hand of the up after this legislation is passed and adjusted gross income. I hope that government. enacted into law. eventually we will be able to make In addition to improving the playing Interestingly enough, this is the that change permanent. field for small businesses, the Tax Cuts most recent analysis by the Joint Com- That is not all this is going to do. and Jobs Act will boost our economy mittee on Taxation. This is the dis- This is not just going to help Ameri- by lowering the tax rate for larger tribution table that they just put out. cans now; it is going to help them for businesses. Right now, America’s glob- The category that has the biggest in- the long term. It is going to give them al businesses pay the highest corporate crease in terms of overall tax burden is access to the kinds of jobs, wages, and tax rate in the industrialized world. By those making a million dollars a year opportunities that will set them up for reducing the corporate tax rate to 21 and more. Today they pay 19.3 percent a secure future. How does it go about percent, this bill will allow American of all the tax burden, all the tax liabil- doing that? By rebuilding our broken businesses to compete and win in the ity in this country. After this is all Tax Code into a modern tax system de- global economy. Just as important, said and done, they will pay 19.8 per- signed for a 21st-century economy. this bill brings the U.S. international cent. So their taxes—those with a mil- In order for individual Americans to tax system into the 21st century by re- lion and more—are going up under this thrive, American businesses need to placing our outdated worldwide tax legislation. thrive. Thriving businesses expand. system with a territorial tax system so So this idea—they keep saying it on They hire new workers. They can af- that American businesses are not oper- the other side, but just because they ford to offer those workers higher ating at a disadvantage next to their keep saying it doesn’t make it true. wages. But our current Tax Code has foreign competitors. The facts tell a completely different not been helping businesses thrive. On We haven’t talked a lot about this, story. These are the facts. Again, I the contrary, it has been strangling but one of the most important reforms have come back to the point I made businesses large and small with high in this bill is the changes we make to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.040 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8099 the international tax system. This bill poverty tax, 42 percent of those paying Does anybody really believe that also eliminates the incentives in our that poverty tax, that ObamaCare when we have such a massive gap in in- current Tax Code that encouraged com- mandate tax, make less than $25,000 a come and wealth inequality, we should panies to shift jobs, profits, and manu- year. In fact, 82 percent of the penalty be giving 60 percent of the benefits in facturing plants overseas. This bill payers paying this tax make less than this bill to the top one-tenth of 1 per- makes it easier for American busi- $50,000 a year. Repealing this tax is the cent? nesses to bring home foreign earnings right thing to do. It says a lot about the priorities of to invest in growing jobs and pay- At the end of the day, the question the Republican Party when the tax checks in our local communities here here is pretty simple: Who deserves breaks for corporations in this bill are in America. more money? Who deserves more con- permanent, while the tax breaks for Lowering the corporate tax rate and trol? Is it right here in Washington, working families expire at the end of 8 transitioning to a territorial tax sys- DC, or is it the American people? Is it years. tem will boost wages, jobs, and oppor- the people of Montana? I think the an- Furthermore, I hope that every tunities for American workers em- swer to that question is pretty easy. I American is listening to what Speaker ployed by our Nation’s global compa- believe Montanans do. So I will be vot- of the House PAUL RYAN is saying, and nies. It will also increase wages, jobs, ing for hard-working Montana families other Republicans, when they talk and opportunities for workers at the so they can keep more of their own about how they are going to offset the countless small and medium-sized busi- money. As we debate what we should $1.5 trillion in deficits they just cre- nesses throughout our country that do with the cash here in Washington, ated by giving massive tax breaks to make up the supply chain for Amer- DC, whose money is it anyway? It came the wealthy and large corporations. ica’s global companies. That is a re- from the people of this country. It What RYAN is saying and many other sounding win for American workers came from the people of Montana. I Republicans are saying is that they are and businesses and for our economy will be voting for Montana Main Street going to come back and offset that $1.5 overall. businesses, for the hard-working mid- trillion in deficits by cutting Social As I said earlier, this bill is the prod- dle class of Montana so we can grow Security, Medicare, and Medicaid. And uct of literally years of work by Mem- wages—some of the lowest in the Na- if I am wrong on that assertion, I bers of both parties. I am excited to be tion—and grow jobs. I will be voting to would hope that some of my Repub- here as we get an opportunity to take return some of Montanans’ hard-earned lican colleagues would come down to this bill across the finish line later money back to the people who sent it the floor and say that I am wrong, but I do not suspect that will be the case. today. here in the first place. During his campaign for the White Mr. President, I yield the floor. Mr. President, I yield back my time. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- House, Donald Trump said over and ator from Montana. ator from Vermont. over again to the American people, Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, the Tax Mr. SANDERS. Mr. President, a few quote after quote, day after day, that Cuts and Jobs Act will keep over $700 moments ago, my friend from South he would not cut Social Security, million per year in Montanans’ pock- Dakota was speaking about the bill. He Medicare, and Medicaid. Well, I say to ets. That is not a number that I cal- made one statement that I do agree the President: For once in your life, culated; that came right from the Mon- with, and that is, just because you say keep the promises that you made, and tana Department of Revenue. And that something over and over again does not tell the Republican leadership now that is just for the individuals in Montana. make it true. Unfortunately, much of you will veto any legislation that cuts Social Security, Medicare, or Medicaid. That $700 million will be moved from what he said is just not accurate. The I suspect we will not be seeing a tweet Washington, DC, back to the people of truth is that what we are seeing today, from the President on that issue. Montana. in an unprecedented way, is the looting Moving toward passing this very un- I can tell you something: Hard-work- of the Federal Treasury. fair piece of legislation, the Republican ing Montanans could use a pay raise. In Today marks a great victory for the leadership—which controls the House fact, in Montana, we have some of the very wealthy campaign contributors and the Senate—will move soon to shut lowest per capita wages in the Nation. who have contributed hundreds of mil- down the Congress and head home for a Contrast that with what is going on in lions of dollars over the years to the holiday break. After massive tax Washington, DC. In fact, if you Google Republican Party. These billionaires breaks for the rich and large corpora- ‘‘wealthiest counties in the U.S.A.’’—I will see a huge tax break for them- tions, they believe their work is done, challenge you to do that. Take your selves at the same time as the deficit and they are ready to head home. smartphone and Google ‘‘wealthiest of this country is driven up by about Well, I respectfully disagree. Maybe, counties in the U.S.A.’’ and look at $1.5 trillion. just maybe, before Congress adjourns what you find. The top three wealthi- Today is also a victory for the larg- for the holidays, we should start pay- est counties in America are suburbs of est, the most profitable corporations in ing attention to the needs of the work- Washington, DC. In fact, 6 out of 10 of America, companies such as Apple, ing families of this country, to the those counties are counties adjacent to Microsoft, Pfizer, and General Electric, middle class of this country, and not Washington, DC. Montanans don’t need which, despite recordbreaking profits, just the billionaire class. to send an additional $700 million of will now see hundreds of billions of dol- We need to address the crisis that their money back to Washington, DC. lars in tax breaks. faces some 800,000 young people who In fact, according to the Montana De- At a time of massive income and are currently in the DACA Program. partment of Revenue, nearly 99 percent wealth inequality, where the people on Without the legal protections afforded of Montanans will see a tax cut under top are becoming wealthier while the by the DACA Program, these young the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. On average, middle class shrinks and 40 million live people today are living in constant fear Montanans will keep approximately in poverty, this legislation—according and anxiety that they may lose their $1,600 of their hard-earned money each to the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center— legal status and, in fact, be deported year. will provide 83 percent of the benefits from the only country they have ever Moreover, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act to the top 1 percent, while increasing known. repeals once and for all ObamaCare’s taxes on 92 million middle-class house- Imagine somebody who is 20 or 25 poverty tax—the so-called individual holds by the end of the decade. Let me years of age, has lived in the United mandate. This tax has systematically repeat that. By the end of the decade, States virtually his or her entire life, penalized the low-income for not being this legislation will provide 83 percent went to school here, now has a job, now able to afford health insurance. Frank- of the benefits to the top 1 percent and, is in college, now is in the military, ly, repealing this tax is one of the most incredibly, 60 percent of the benefits to and because of Trump’s disastrous at- compassionate things we could do as the top one-tenth of 1 percent, while, tack on DACA, repealing DACA, 800,000 part of this legislation. at the end of the decade, 92 million young people are worried about wheth- Adding insult to injury, when you middle-class households will be paying er they are going to be able to even peel back what is going on with this more in taxes. stay in this country.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.042 S19DEPT1 S8100 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 The American people are very clear But it is not just the need to address question to him about what we will be about how they feel about this issue. I the crisis facing our Dreamers. As you doing here in a few minutes. believe just today there was a know, community health centers pro- Senator SANDERS has eloquently spo- Quinnipiac poll that appeared on this viding health insurance, healthcare, for ken to the needs of the American peo- very issue, and this was the question: 27 million people have not been reau- ple, our veterans, the Dreamers, the Which comes closest to your view about thorized or refunded. We have to ad- disasters. Those are bipartisan efforts. undocumented immigrants who were brought dress that issue, and we have to address Mr. CRAPO and I want to fix the broken to the U.S. as children? A) They should be al- it now. system of fighting fires. lowed to stay in the United States and to Nine million children are in the Chil- Senator SANDERS mentioned chil- eventually apply for U.S. citizenship. B) dren’s Health Insurance Program. dren’s health insurance. This bill bor- They should be allowed to remain in the rows $1.5 trillion and is going to end up United States, but not be allowed to apply While we are busy giving tax breaks to for U.S. citizenship. C) They should be re- billionaires, we have not had time to borrowing a lot of it from foreign inter- quired to leave the U.S. reauthorize a health insurance pro- ests. That would fund the Children’s That was the question asked of the gram for the children of this country. Health Insurance Program for 915 American people. We should be ashamed of ourselves. years. So what the Senator from Here is the answer. Seventy-seven We have disaster relief out there. Vermont is doing is saying: Look at all percent of the American people—77 per- Folks in Congress will go home to cele- the constructive areas where we can cent—say that these young people brate the holidays, and will light up really meet the needs of the people, should be allowed to stay in the United our homes. In Puerto Rico and the Vir- and, instead, we are working on a tax States and move toward citizenship. gin Islands, they can’t light up their bill that is going to betray the middle Seven percent say they that should homes because many of them still class. It is going to betray the middle stay in the United States but not gain don’t have electricity as a result of the class, and in my view, as the distin- citizenship. Twelve percent say that recent disasters they have experienced. guished Senator from Vermont and I they should be forced to leave the We need to do disaster relief. We need have discussed, this bill—this tax bill— United States. to do it now for the people of Puerto is a textbook case of writing legisla- Republicans, by overwhelming num- Rico, for the people of the Virgin Is- tion in an undemocratic way, in a se- bers, say that these young people, lands, for the people of Texas, and for cret way, with provisions that were these Dreamers who have spent their the people of Florida. airdropped for lobbyists into this legis- entire lives in this country, who know There are 1.5 million workers who are lation in the middle of the night. no other country, should be allowed to about to lose the pensions they were Senator SANDERS and I were part of stay in America and apply for citizen- promised, and those pensions, after a the so-called conference committee last week where we didn’t even have ship. Ninety-one percent of Democrats lifetime of work, will be reduced by 60 the relevant bill in front of us. We were say that, and 81 percent of Independ- percent if we don’t address the multi- asking questions about bills that really ents say that. employer pension plan crisis. We have As we speak, young people are losing didn’t exist. to do that. Mr. SANDERS. If I could ask my col- their legal status. We have to act on Over 40 million people in this country league from Oregon a simple question— that and act on that now, before we ad- are dealing with student debt. They journ for the holidays. Put yourself in he is the ranking member of the Fi- leave college deeply in debt. Many of nance Committee. This is a bill that the place of a 20-, 25-year-old person them are in despair because of their fi- living in extraordinary anxiety. We deals with trillions of dollars in our en- nancial situations—because of their tire economy. have to act now to address those con- outrageous levels of student debt. We cerns. We have to do what the Amer- Mr. WYDEN. $10 trillion. have to address that. Mr. SANDERS. It impacts every per- ican people want us to do. We have an opioid epidemic that is son in America. Would he mind telling As I think most people know, the killing people from coast to coast. We Koch brothers are the major funders of the American people just how many have to start investing in treatment public hearings there were to hear from the Republican Party. They have prob- and prevention. ably given billions of dollars over the economists, to hear from the business We have 30,000 vacancies in the VA community, to hear from labor, to hear years. Even Charles Koch acknowl- today. Our job is to make sure that edges that the right thing to do is to from senior advocates, to discuss this every veteran in this country gets the rather long and complicated bill? provide legal status for the Dreamers. quality healthcare he or she needs. Let me quote from a recent op-ed in Mr. WYDEN. There was not one sin- They don’t get it with 30,000 vacancies gle hearing to discuss the specifics of the Washington Post by Charles Koch in the VA. We have to invest in the VA. and Tim Cook, the head of Apple: the legislation before us today. The There were 10,000 people on disability legislation before us today involves $10 The United States is at its best when all who died last year while waiting for people are free to pursue their dreams. Our trillion worth of changes in tax policy. country has enjoyed unparalleled success by the Social Security Administration to Our colleagues on the other side welcoming people from around the world who act on their applications; 10,000 people trumpet this idea that there were 70 seek to make a better life for themselves and died last year because the Social Secu- hearings. I think what they are talking their families, no matter what their back- rity Administration is greatly under- about is that over the years, people grounds. It is our differences that help us to staffed—massive cuts to the Social Se- would come in and talk about this idea learn from each other, to challenge our old curity Administration. The elderly and or that. ways of thinking and to discover innovative the disabled in this country are enti- Mr. SANDERS. Talk about taxes in solutions that benefit us all. To advance that tled to have prompt process when they prosperity and build an even stronger future, general—— each successive generation—including, apply for benefits. They are not getting Mr. WYDEN. Right, that is correct. today, our own—must show the courage to that. We have to pay attention to that, But there was not one single hearing embrace that diversity and to do what is and on and on it goes. with respect to the specifics of the bill. right. The bottom line is that the U.S. Sen- I would like to turn, if I could, to We have no illusions about how difficult it ate should be doing more than pro- this work that my colleague—and I am can be to get things done in Washington, and viding 83 percent of the benefits in a happy to have partnered with him—has we know that people of good faith disagree tax bill to the top 1 percent. We cannot played such an important role in; that about aspects of immigration policy. If ever is, the consequences of all this reckless there were an occasion to come together to go home unless we address the very se- help people improve their lives, this is it. By rious crises facing the working families haste and secretive process, which he acting now to ensure the dreamers can real- and the middle class of this country. and I have been working on. In my ize their potential by continuing to con- With that, I yield to my colleague view, it is really is legislative mal- tribute to our country, Congress can reaf- from Oregon. practice. We have a bill that is full of firm this essential American ideal. Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I thank mistakes that are going to have unin- This is from Charles Koch. He funds Senator SANDERS. tended consequences, opening many the Republican Party. They might I want to pick up for a moment on new loopholes for the wealthy and want to listen to him as well. his eloquent points and then pose a crafty accountants and lawyers.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.044 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8101 The Senator and I have been working In that regard, I would tell my friend working Americans. It doubles the to try to weed out of this legislation that this afternoon, the Senate Parlia- child tax credit, which is so important, violations of what is called the Byrd mentarian advised that certain provi- making more of it refundable to help rule, which, in English, basically sions of the Republican tax legislation parents and our families. It helps our means you can’t stuff provisions into a violate the Byrd rule, including a pro- small businesses. In the State of Alas- bill that really don’t deal with tax and vision allowing for the use of 529 sav- ka, about 99.6 percent of the businesses spending. By my count, the Senator ings accounts for home schooling ex- in Alaska are small businesses, and it and I have already pushed that there penses; the short title—the Tax Cut allows owners to do even more by being are more than 20 Byrd rule violations and Jobs Act—and part of the criteria able to deduct 20 percent of their busi- that had to be corrected. used to determine whether the endow- ness income from their taxes. It also Before I ask my question, I just want ments of private universities are sub- cuts our corporate rate, currently one to give people a little bit of the idea of ject to the legislation’s new excise tax. of the highest in the world. We all rec- the work the Senator and I have been These provisions may be struck from ognize this is a move that is long over- doing over the last few days. Late Fri- the conference report absent 60 votes. due and one that will make us more day night, we were able to remove a With that, I raise the following competitive, help bring jobs back to particularly offensive provision that points of order against the pending this country, and increase investments would have turned some churches in conference report: in America. America into partisan, political orga- That subsection 11000(a) violates sec- I support tax reform, and I am also nizations. Specifically, there was an ef- tion 313(b)(1)(A) of the Congressional very proud to be the lead author of the fort here to overturn what is called the Budget Act of 1974; that subparagraph second title, the energy title, in this Johnson amendment, named after Lyn- (B) of section 11032, starting on page 75, bill, which I believe contains the single don Johnson, that barred churches line 17 and all through page 76, line 9, most important step that we can take from endorsing partisan political activ- violates section 313(b)(1)(D) of the Con- to strengthen our long-term energy se- ity with political candidates. The way gressional Budget Act of 1974; and that curity and create new wealth—creating that the bill was written—and the Sen- the phrase ‘‘tuition-paying’’ as it ap- new wealth—rather than moving ator and I fought to get it struck and pears on page 309, line 12, and page 309, things around. were successful—it would have turned lines 14 through 15, violates section This has been long fight for us. It has churches and sham charities into polit- 313(b)(1)(D) of the Congressional Budget been a fight that has been going on for ical machines where they could be con- Act of 1974. about 38 years, give or take. It has duits for billions and billions of dollars The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. been a multigenerational fight for in dark money. RUBIO). The Senator from Wyoming. some of us. What we are doing is au- Mr. SANDERS. Let me translate that thorizing a program for responsible en- into English. In other words, as I un- MOTION TO WAIVE ergy development in Alaska’s non- derstand what the Senator is saying, Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, pursuant to wilderness 1002 area. This is an area billionaire campaign contributors section 904 of the Congressional Budget Congress specifically set aside for its could then legally put money into Act of 1974 and the waiver provisions of evaluation for its potential for oil and churches, which would then do the po- applicable budget resolutions, I move gas. litical work that they otherwise would to waive all applicable sections of that I have put a lot of charts about Alas- have been doing. act and applicable budget resolutions Mr. WYDEN. Absolutely. I think we for purposes of the conference report to ka up, but here is Alaska laid over the need to tell America about this because accompany H.R. 1, and I ask for the United States of America, just to kind we have won this round, but the Sen- yeas and nays. of put in context what we are talking ator and I are going to be back at this The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there a about here with the 1002 area. The area fight with our colleagues again. In ef- sufficient second? of ANWR itself is an area of about 19.5 fect, this would have been Citizens There appears to be a sufficient sec- million acres. It is the combined size of United 2.0. This would have been an- ond. Massachusetts, Rhode Island, Vermont, other version of the push to have unac- The yeas and nays were ordered. and New Hampshire, in this area, and countable, dark money—billions of dol- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The in this portion of the State of Alaska. lars poured into elections through waiver is debatable for 1 hour, equally Contained within ANWR is additional churches and sham charities. divided. wilderness acreage. There are about 7 Turning to the question now of this Who yields time? million acres of wilderness contained evening, it looks to me as though we If no one yields time, the time will be in the ANWR area. have now found several other Byrd rule equally divided. I also want to remind colleagues who violations that would seem to me to be The Senator from Alaska. say we need to keep this 1002 area in a further indications of rash and reckless Ms. MURKOWSKI. Mr. President, I wilderness status—let me tell my col- legislating that does not serve the was proud to be a conferee for H.R. 1, leagues, the 1002 was never in wilder- American people well. the Tax Cut and Jobs Act, and I am ness, is not in wilderness, and that is So I would wrap up by asking my col- pleased to join many of my colleagues not what we are talking about here. league from Vermont—and I want to in strong support of the conference re- We have 48 wilderness areas in the tell him it has been a pleasure to work port for it. State of Alaska, with a total of about in partnership with him on this—aren’t I think, really, the title says it all. 56.6 million acres of designated wilder- these Byrd rule violations that we have This bill will deliver tax cuts and new ness in the State, but the 1002 is not been going after and that you are going jobs for hard-working Americans. I wilderness. This is what we are talking to discuss again tonight, aren’t these think it will be good for our economy, about opening up for oil and gas explo- just a textbook case of what happens it will be good for jobs and for growth, ration. when you legislate with reckless haste? and it will be good for families and our This is an area—this small area up Mr. SANDERS. Absolutely. It is not businesses. here—that contains an estimated 10.4 only that mistakes are made; it is that As a starting point, we have tax re- billion barrels of oil. We know we can when you don’t open the doors to the form—a huge and a complicated under- produce it safely. We know we are American people, to economists, to taking that really happens once in a going to need this oil in the years mayors, to Governors, to generation around here. It has been 31 ahead. businesspeople, and to leaders in the years since we have successfully re- Now, some of my colleagues have labor movement to see what do you formed the Tax Code. I think we would suggested that somehow or other we want in tax reform—when you don’t do all say it is long overdue. don’t need any more oil; that we are that—and when you conduct your busi- This bill reduces taxes in every in- exporting oil now. Well, the reality is ness behind closed doors, you end up come bracket, letting Americans keep that world oil demand is rising; it is with legislation that represents the more of their money. It doubles the not falling. We need to bring more sup- needs of the billionaire class, which standard deduction to put even more ply online, and we need to open up our also makes a number of mistakes. money back in the pockets of hard- most prospective areas. So, again,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.045 S19DEPT1 S8102 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 when we have a small area that has as an Alaskan who is the author of this where are you going to get it from? enormous potential, why would we con- title, none of what we are doing in this Why not work with people who are tinue to deny that opportunity? effort to open the 1002 area will come going to care for the land, care for the The International Energy Agency beat the expense of our environment or people, care for the wildlife, do it with lieves—and they stated it this year: the local people. Some of the local peo- a level of commitment to a resource ‘‘Global oil supply could struggle to ple are here in Washington to watch and to a cause that is strong and keep pace with demand after 2020, risk- the vote today. Hearing the voices of sound? ing a sharp increase in prices unless those who live there—there is a town, For those who come in and say they new projects are approved soon.’’ there is a village, there are people, know best and their idea is to just lock So to suggest that somehow, just be- there is a school, there is an airport in it up, that is not right. For 40 years, cause we are exporting oil, we no the 1002 area—a town, residents, com- Alaskans have stood up and said: That longer need to produce it, just doesn’t munity. This is not an area that is un- is not right. make sense. Exports are making our touched, but it is an area we care We will continue in our effort to markets more efficient, but they don’t about. We care about the people, we demonstrate to the rest of the country mean we are suddenly more energy care about the land, and we care about and the rest of the world how we are independent or permanently energy se- the wildlife, but we know how to able to operate, how we are able to be cure. Making sure we are doing more produce energy while protecting our responsible stewards of the environ- where we have high prospects makes environment. We have been doing it for ment, to produce jobs, to help Alaskan sense. decades, and we will continue to do it people, to help the country, and to help Our energy title also includes a bi- going into the future. our allies. This is what we are asking partisan proposal from Senators CAS- Thanks to new technologies, the for. SIDY, STRANGE, and KING that will in- footprint of our development up north As I close my comments, I recognize crease revenue sharing for the gulf is smaller than ever before. The that tomorrow is coming up on the coast for priorities like coastal res- amount of land that development pads shortest day. We have had some very toration and hurricane protection. occupy now on our North Slope is now short days in Alaska. It is pretty dark Overall, the bill—our title—is pro- 80 percent smaller than in the 1970s there right now. I was home over the jected to raise nearly $1.1 billion over when we first began operation in weekend. With the passage of this bill the next 10 years. Once production be- Prudhoe Bay—80 percent smaller. At and the long-awaited opportunity to gins in the 1002 area, we will likely the same time, the subsurface reach access our resources in the 1002 area for raise tens, if not hundreds, of billions from those smaller pads is going to be the benefit of Alaskans and for the ben- of dollars for the Federal Treasury. more than 4,000 percent larger than efit of our country, the days ahead Again, this is new wealth and new pros- where we were in the 1970s—more than look brighter for all of us. perity at a time when our Nation needs 4,000 percent. Mr. President, I yield the floor. both. What we are able to do is access more The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Those are not the only benefits this resources underground directionally in ator from Rhode Island. energy title will bring. We are also an area of 125 square miles. What the Mr. REED. Mr. President, tonight, talking about jobs—creating thousands technology allows us to do is almost the Republican leadership intends to of jobs—in Alaska and around the too hard for people to believe, and so force a vote on their tax bill. President country; jobs that pay high wages, put they continue the same tired rhetoric Trump has called this tax bill historic. food on the table, and put the kids we have heard for years. The fact is, we Indeed, it will make history, but not through college. need less land to produce more energy for the right reasons. It is a historic We are in a tough place right now in than ever before. transfer of wealth from students, sen- Alaska. We have the highest unemploy- We are going to take care of our land. iors, and working families to the ment in the country. I appreciated the We are going to take care of the people wealthiest corporations and individuals fact that my colleague from Wash- who live on our North Slope. We are in America and, indeed, throughout the ington talked about jobs and, in fact, going to take care of the environment, world. Historians and voters will look noted that in the ties that bind the and we will protect the wildlife on the at the way this bill was written, in a State of Alaska and the State of Wash- Coastal Plain. The Central Arctic herd rushed and sloppy manner, without ington, we do have a lot when it comes of caribou increased sevenfold in the thoughtful debate—indeed, we have to to sharing of jobs. I will remind my years since we have been producing in send it back to the House of Represent- colleagues that when it comes to jobs, Prudhoe Bay. That is the Alaskan way. atives so they can vote again—and it is an estimated 12,000 Puget Sound That is what we do there. That is why with a reckless and willful disregard jobs and $780 million in labor earnings we have written our language to be for facts and independent analysis. that are connected with refining Alas- fully protective, and that is why we do In forcing this massive restructuring ka oil. So our jobs—our resource bene- not waive any environmental review of our economy through Congress, Re- fits not just us in Alaska but those process or consultation requirements publican leaders have permitted no around the country as well. with Alaskan Natives in any way. In real amendments and ignored every What we are able to do by accessing fact, the only thing that we limit here nonpartisan analysis of their bill that this 1002 area also will help us keep en- in this bill is surface development. In does not fit their worldview. As a re- ergy affordable, effectively providing this area of the 1002, in this 1.5 million sult, this trickle-down tax bill is quite families and businesses with an energy acres, this provision, title II, says that possibly the most fiscally irresponsible tax cut. That, too, is important in con- 2,000 surface acres will be open—one piece of tax legislation to have ever text with this tax bill. ten-thousandth of all of ANWR. That is been railroaded through Congress over We also protect national security by all we are seeking to do, and we will do the objections of the American people. reducing foreign oil dependency, espe- it with care and concern for the envi- Some will say: Wait, what about the cially in west coast States. Ironically, ronment. Affordable Care Act? Let me remind California and Washington State, as I have listened to colleagues say that you, the ACA was paid for. It had to they see less oil coming from Alaska, we are destroying the Refuge, that we get 60 votes. It was on the Senate floor as our throughput is declining, what is will turn it into an industrialized for 25 consecutive days. There was a happening is that, in order to keep wasteland. I am offended, I am horri- full committee process, and Democrats their refineries going and their jobs fied, and it is wrong. It is wrong for accepted many Republican amend- continuing, they are having to import those from the outside looking in, who ments in the House and in the Senate. oil. Where is California getting more of have taken a nice trip into an area and That is not the case with this historic their oil from? From the Middle East. said: This must be protected. Your jobs bill. Tell me how that makes any sense. don’t matter. The Trump tax will adversely affect I appreciate that colleagues come to That resource that we rely on for my home State, Rhode Islanders, in so the floor with a passion about our jobs in my State doesn’t matter; we many ways. The temporary benefits State, but know that as Alaskans and will get it from somewhere else. Well, will not cover the long-term damage

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.047 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8103 from this bill or offset the increased the programs that allow us to keep rity strategy, his overarching vision of costs for things like childcare, edu- faith with the American people who what will make this country safe, se- cation, healthcare, and housing. The sent us here and also to ensure that we cure, and strong as we go forward. Part reason the American people oppose this are moving toward a more peaceful and of that national security strategy is to bill is simple—and they do oppose it— prosperous world. For future genera- reduce the debt through fiscal responsi- it forces the middle class to accept yet tions facing an economic crisis, or the bility. My Republican colleagues are another Republican tax giveaway to challenge of their time, or cyclical eco- about to increase the debt through fis- corporations and the richest 1 percent nomic downturns that we cannot al- cal irresponsibility. This national secu- with little or nothing for them. ways foresee, those future generations rity strategy isn’t even 24 hours old, It also gives trillions of dollars in will look back on this unnecessary tax and it is being abandoned. It is being permanent tax cuts to corporations giveaway and wonder why today’s Con- abandoned before literally even the pen while raising taxes on over half of gress was so irresponsible. is dry on the paper. When it comes to American families over the next dec- In 2001, I was here, and I opposed the tax cuts, national security places far to ade. In doing so, it gives $48 billion to Bush tax cuts. At that time, however, the rear, and we know what is going to the foreign investors who own roughly we had an estimated $5 trillion surplus, happen. As this deficit grows—and it 35 percent of American company stock. and we didn’t anticipate the 9/11 at- will grow much larger than the $1.5 That is right. Many of these tax bene- tacks. We were at a time where Russia trillion that is projected—it will fits will go through corporations by ei- was turning away from its Communist squeeze out spending. It will squeeze ther dividends or stock redemptions to past to what we thought was a demo- out defense spending, despite the ef- foreign owners, amounting to $48 bil- cratic future. China was just emerging forts on both sides to try to increase lion to foreign investors. That is not as an economic power in Asia. It is a support for the military. It is impos- putting the American working man totally different situation today. We sible to create a deficit of this mag- and woman first; that is putting them all know it. My colleagues on the other nitude and not see the consequences at the end of the line. It makes the Tax side know it. We are challenged by 16 both on the defense side and the non- Code more, rather than less, com- years of war, which we have made no defense side. plicated and very clearly incentivizes attempt to pay for, and we are putting In fact, I am baffled because we have and rewards multinational corpora- our national security behind benefits heard so much—particularly from my tions that send jobs and stash money for the wealthiest Americans that are Republican colleagues—talk about the overseas. enshrined in this bill, adding $1.5 tril- need to support our men and women in Moreover, special loopholes for pass- lion to pay for tax cuts for the most the field after 16 years of war. Why through entities will create a bonanza wealthy in this Nation and in the aren’t we at least saying: If we are for tax lawyers and accountants and world. going to borrow $1.5 trillion, let’s give people figuring out ways to get out of Many of the recipients of our lar- it to the men and women in uniform. paying their taxes. It will not help gesse—Republican largesse—this No. We are here tonight saying: Let’s working men and women who come in evening will not be Americans. As I give it to the richest people in America and punch in every morning, work noted, a significant portion of Amer- and in the world. There is lots of re- hard, and then go back to their fami- ican stock in our companies is held by joicing going on throughout the world foreigners. When stock buybacks take lies. It will not help them at all. tonight because when shareholders’ place—and that is what corporations And there is not a single respected stock is redeemed in the companies have announced they will do—a huge economist or tax scholar on the left or they own, they are going to be wealthi- amount of these tax cuts will go outright who concludes that this bill sim- er, and they are going to use that plifies the Tax Code and pays for side of the United States, and not help our economy. Maybe it will help some wealth not for America but for what- itself—not one. ever reason they want. Again, is it a Republicans know all these facts. people buy expensive yachts overseas and expensive French Impressionist new yacht or a new painting? They have heard the public’s objec- I just hope that in the waning few tions, and they still plan to send this paintings, but it will not help working people in Pawtucket, RI, or Cranston, hours of this debate, we can move the bill to President Trump for his signa- consciousness of colleagues and reject ture. The President will try to tell the RI—not at all. This is a bill that is full of loopholes that will be exploited for this legislation. American people that his great polit- years to come. Indeed, we are already I yield the floor. ical victory is a win for working peo- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- hearing rumors that we can expect ple, but they see all the benefits going more legislation to ‘‘fix the bill.’’ ator from Nevada. to his type of businesses—real estate This would be different if we were Mr. HELLER. Mr. President, we are passthroughs. In fact, at the last mo- talking about real tax reform—real tax nearing the finish line this week on ment, the conference committee put in reform that benefitted the middle providing Nevadans and all Americans a special provision to make sure that class, real tax reform that raised the the real tax relief that they deserve real estate entities could benefit from earned-income tax credit, real tax re- and that they have been promised. As a this bill. That means President form that benefited people who work member of the Senate Finance Com- Trump’s organization benefits from every day, wage workers particularly— mittee, I have been fighting every day this bill. but this bill doesn’t do that. Real tax for the Senate to stay in Washington— It is not fair. It is not wise. It is not reform comes as a result of an open and even 24/7—until the job gets done. good policy. The American people bipartisan process. It is ideally rev- Today, we are getting the job done. know this instinctively. They look at enue-neutral, like the 1986 law under That is because I know just how crit- what is going on, and they see this as President Reagan, which took a bipar- ical middle-class tax relief is for the it is—a giant gift to the wealthiest cor- tisan consensus, which made major re- people in my home State of Nevada. porations and individuals at the peo- form, and which is something that was Let me tell you why. ple’s expense in so many different not only procedurally but economically The majority of Americans are not ways. sound. only struggling to get ahead, they are The consequences of this legislation I hope, going forward, that we can struggling to just get by. It has been are going to be staggering and genera- work together to prevent and undo the reported that nearly 8 in 10 Americans tional. We will not quickly overcome damage from this bill and enact real, who work full time are living paycheck this historic mistake. The total abdica- responsible tax reform that boosts to paycheck. That is a slight increase tion of fiscal responsibility in this bill take-home pay, spurs job growth, from previous years. is stunning. Adding trillions more to closes loopholes, expands opportunity, If you live in Nevada, you are more the deficit will put massive budget and strengthens the long-term finan- likely to be living paycheck to pay- pressure on national defense, Medicare, cial stability and security of our Na- check than if you were to live in most Medicaid, Social Security, and other tion. But that is not this legislation. other States. To put that into perspec- vital programs that keep our commit- One final point—this Monday, the tive, housing costs are reported to con- ments at home and abroad. These are President announced his national secu- sume nearly a quarter of Nevadans’

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.049 S19DEPT1 S8104 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 paychecks. One report suggests that bill will make it easier for them to seen the increased levels of economic after the cost-of-living expenses are continue doing what they do best, and growth under the new administration taken out of their paychecks, the aver- that is creating jobs. and know that this tax relief bill will age Nevadan has a little more than $700 Lastly, if you are against this bill, add to it. left. During a recent telephone town- you are against tax cuts for the middle Let’s talk about what this tax bill hall, I heard from a teacher in Las class because that is what this bill is does and does not do. Vegas who spoke about her stagnant all about, and if you know that nearly This tax bill lowers individual tax wages. This teacher, like most Ameri- one-third of Americans don’t have $500 rates across the board and let’s tax- cans, has not seen a meaningful pay to cover an emergency expense, then payers keep more of their hard-earned raise in years. you know just how important a few money. But right now, for many Americans, extra dollars per month are to them. I This tax bill roughly doubles the it is not so much about getting a raise do, and that is why I have been fight- standard deduction that is used by as it is getting back to where they once ing to get this bill to the President’s most taxpayers, which gives a massive were. In Nevada, the real median desk. tax cut to the roughly 90 percent of Ne- household income is $7,000 lower today Earlier today, I was pleased to see vadans who are expected to use it. than it was in 2007. Let me repeat that. the House pass the conference report This tax bill includes my amendment In Nevada, the real median household that reconciles our two tax reform to double the child tax credit—an in- income is $7,000 lower today than it bills, and I look forward to soon having crease of $1,000 per child over current was 10 years ago. At the same time, the opportunity to vote in support of law—which will go a long way toward childcare expenses have skyrocketed. this pro-growth package that delivers addressing the skyrocketing costs of In this country, the average cost for an critically important tax relief to childcare in my State and across the infant in center-based care can be as America’s middle class and small busi- country. high as $17,082 per year. By the way, nesses—a pro-growth package that will This tax bill also includes my amend- that is more than a semester at the help boost jobs, a pro-growth package ment to make it easier for startups and University of Nevada, Las Vegas. It is that will increase wages, a pro-growth businesses to give lower level employ- more than a semester at the University package that will drive growth in our ees ownership stakes in their compa- of Nevada, Reno. In Nevada, that local communities, and a pro-growth nies’ successes by awarding stock op- means that the average single parent package that will give a Nevada family tions. could spend as much as 36 percent of of four, making $85,000 per year, a tax This tax bill protects and expands his or her annual income to send an in- cut of $2,254 or, roughly, a relief of 20 the medical expense deduction for our fant to center-based care. percent of its tax liability, according Nation’s most vulnerable, as well as Given rising housing and childcare to the nonpartisan Tax Foundation. preserves popular retirement savings expenses alone, middle-class families in Today, our small businesses and mid- options, such as 401(k)s and individual Nevada and around this country are dle class suffer under an outdated and retirement accounts. having a hard time covering day-to-day unfair Tax Code that crushes job cre- This bill does not change the tax expenses and planning for their fu- ation and makes it harder for Nevadans treatment of the student loan interest. tures. Nearly one in five Americans has and people all across this country to It does not change graduate tuition nothing set aside to cover an unex- get ahead. waivers. It does not change the tax pected emergency, while nearly one in The fact is simple: After 30 years of treatment of employer-paid tuition or three Americans doesn’t have at least disrepair and neglect, our current tax the teacher deduction. $500 to cover an unexpected emergency system needs to be fixed. Everybody It preserves the tax exemption for expense. So it is fair to say, in Nevada knows that it doesn’t work, that it is private activity bonds that are used to at least, that the recession has never rigged against our job creators, and finance private projects with a public really ended. that it should be overhauled. These are benefit. These bonds benefit a wide Under the failed economic policies of the very problems our tax relief pack- array of individuals and organizations, the Obama administration, Nevadans age helps to address. such as charter schools, and are of suffered through 8 years of historically I also recently spoke with an ambi- great importance to the homeschool low economic growth. Think about tious and hard-working Nevadan, an community. that. In those 8 years, the average eco- entrepreneur who started his own busi- Overall, this tax bill accomplishes nomic growth was less than 2 percent. ness while going to school full time. my three major goals of, one, creating As a result, wages and workers suf- This young job creator brought up the jobs; two, increasing wages; and three, fered, job creation suffered, and mid- enormous amount of money that he is boosting American competitiveness. dle-class Americans suffered. paying in taxes, as well as how com- Regardless of the tales that my We are now at a crossroads. We have plicated it is to navigate the current friends from across the aisle want to a chance to change course. We have the system. He also spoke of an uneven tell you, this bill not only cuts taxes, opportunity to pass meaningful tax playing field that tipped the system in but it also increases wages. cuts that will lift middle-class fami- favor of his foreign competitors. He We have a prime opportunity today lies, our communities, and our econ- wanted to know when Congress would to provide real tax relief to Nevadans omy. deliver on reforms to boost the com- and other Americans who have been If you are against this bill, you are petitiveness of all American job cre- waiting for a fairer, simpler Tax Code, satisfied with the anemic 2-percent ators. real relief that lets the middle class economic growth that was ushered in Lastly, just this past weekend, I ran keep more of its hard-earned money by the Obama administration. You ac- into a small business owner who said and makes our Tax Code easier to un- cept this dismal growth as the new nor- that he paid $160,000 in taxes last year. derstand. There is less paperwork and mal, but I will never accept this as the He said that $160,000 amounted to two more money in people’s back pockets. new normal. I think we can do better. pieces of machinery that he could have There is real relief that also produces In fact, I know we can do better. We installed at his small manufacturing more quality jobs, higher wages, and have already seen improvement since facility—machines that would have ne- growth in our communities. President Trump has taken office. cessitated the creation of two highly This tax relief bill is a positive step If you are against this bill, you are paid jobs—jobs that would have been toward restoring Nevadans’ faith in the against giving small businesses the created but for our unfair tax system. American dream by providing tax cuts chance to actually get off the ground From their perspectives and from for middle-class families and jump- and hire workers. You are against giv- mine, Nevada has been waiting too starting job creation, higher wages, ing them better opportunities to ex- long for a fairer, simpler Tax Code that and economic growth. pand, to invest, to increase wages, and they can enjoy. Nevadans, like most I will continue to work with my col- to hire more workers. I know that our Americans, know how important pass- leagues in both Chambers to ensure small businesses employ nearly half of ing this tax relief package is to our that this desperately needed legislation all U.S. workers, and I know that this country’s economy. Nevadans have makes it across the finish line to the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.051 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8105 President’s desk before the end of this occasions that he is all-in on and sup- Yet, it is clear that a territorial system week. ports—this tax bill does zero to claw could have just the opposite impact: It could I yield the floor. back tax breaks and incentives award- give a permanent preference to foreign in- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. come and lead companies to shift more prof- ed to corporations that later decide to its to tax havens knowing that they could DAINES). The Senator from Indiana. outsource American jobs. It also re- permanently avoid virtually all taxation on Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I rise tains loopholes that allow corporations such profits. One crucial safeguard against to discuss the tax bill. like Rexnord and Carrier to continue that perverse impact is to apply a strong I am disappointed. You see, I am one deducting the moving expenses when minimum tax on the profits of U.S. multi- of the many Americans who believe they ship those American jobs to other nationals in each country (a ‘‘country-by- that we need to reform our Tax Code to countries. Imagine that. There is a tax country’’ minimum tax). If a U.S. company benefit middle-class families. I also be- had to pay a minimum tax of, let’s say, 19 deduction for moving expenses to ship percent (as President Obama had proposed), lieve that we need to make those re- American jobs to other countries. They even if they engaged in complex tax planning forms in a commonsense, responsible left it alone. to book $100 million in profits in zero-tax way. Sadly, that is not the approach Perhaps, there is no better example Bermuda, they would have to pay $19 million that was taken with this legislation. of an issue on which the President and in U.S. taxes to ensure the 19 percent min- From the very beginning of this ef- I agree than preventing the outsourc- imum tax was enforced. Under such a coun- fort, I have been willing to partner ing of American jobs. Right now in my try-by-country minimum tax, you can run, with Republicans or Democrats and you can shift profits to tax havens, but you home State of Indiana, nine companies cannot hide from paying a 19 percent min- with President Trump and his team. In have outsourced or will outsource the imum no matter where you are. Under this fact, when President Trump unveiled jobs of 2,200 Hoosiers. This is impacting type of true minimum tax on foreign earn- his tax priorities in my home State of moms and dads, sisters and brothers, ings, U.S. multinationals would have little Indiana, I traveled with him on Air wives and husbands, our neighbors, and incentive to engage in the ongoing race to Force One. I wanted him to know that our friends. This is our opportunity to the bottom. I was listening to his priorities and As discussed in my previous Atlantic piece, stand up for American workers and the GOP plan was rumored to use only a 10 that I agreed with his stated goals of make it clear that if corporations want percent minimum tax, and to make it worse, supporting the middle class and keep- a lower tax rate or special tax deduc- would make the minimum tax determination ing jobs right here in America. I also tions, if they want the American tax- based on the average of a company’s total wanted Hoosiers to know that I was payer to invest in them, then, they global profits. What was problematic about committed to working with the Presi- must invest in American workers. That this design was that it not only encouraged dent to reform our Tax Code in a way is the conversation I had with the companies to move profits to tax havens, but that helped Hoosier families and busi- it actually encouraged them to simulta- President when we talked about our neously move jobs and operations such as nesses. shared goals for tax reform, and these manufacturing to industrialized countries After that trip with the President are the issues where I know there is that had typical tax rates and to shift more and in every meeting with the adminis- common ground. profits to tax havens. Why? Because if you tration, including two meetings at the Gene Sperling, formerly the chief had $100 million of profits in Bermuda facing White House, my attending Vice Presi- economic adviser to two different no tax, you might have still had to pay $10 dent PENCE’s speech in Anderson, IN, Presidents recently, wrote: million in U.S. taxes to meet the new global minimum tax. But if you moved a factory to and in multiple discussions with top If there is one thing the Republican inter- administration officials, I left feeling Germany that made $100 million and paid 20 national tax bill was advertised to accom- percent in taxes there, you could still pay optimistic that we could work together plish, it was that it would favor locating jobs zero on your profits in Bermuda because the to reform our Tax Code to achieve and profits in the United States. It does just average taxes paid on your global profits those goals we had agreed upon. I ex- the opposite—expanding the degree our tax (from both Bermuda and Germany) would be pected a proposal that was focused on system tilts the playing field against Amer- the global minimum rate of 10 percent. This ican taxpayers and American workers. cutting taxes for middle-class families. perverse design means the more a U.S. mul- I expected a proposal that would help Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- tinational shifts jobs and operations to in- keep jobs in America and take away sent to have printed in the RECORD this dustrialized nations with similar tax rates to the U.S., the more it can get away with tax incentives from corporations that article by Gene Sperling, recently published in The Atlantic, titled ‘‘How the shifting more and more profits to tax ha- flagrantly outsource jobs to foreign vens. competitors in foreign countries. Un- Tax Plan Will Send Jobs Overseas.’’ So how did it look in the fine print? As fortunately, that is not the bill that There being no objection, the mate- several tax experts including the Tax Policy the majority leader pushed through the rial was ordered to be printed in the Center’s Steve Rosenthal, Brooklyn Law Senate, nor is it the final bill that he RECORD, as follows: School’s Rebecca Kysar, and Reed College’s [From the Atlantic, Dec. 8, 2017] Kimberly Clausing have written, it is even and the Speaker of the House agreed worse than anticipated on at least two addi- upon. HOW THE TAX PLAN WILL SEND JOBS OVERSEAS tional grounds. First, it turns out that the The reasons I oppose this bill are Republican idea of a minimum tax is that it COMPANIES ARE GOING TO BE ABLE TO SAVE A plain and simple, clear, and make com- only taxes what you make over what they TON OF MONEY BY LOCATING FACTORIES ABROAD mon sense. Instead of providing a tax think is a ‘‘routine’’ profit, deemed to be 10 (By Gene B. Sperling) cut that overwhelmingly benefits the percent in the Senate bill, on ‘‘tangible’’ in- middle class, this bill cuts taxes for the Despite Donald Trump’s ‘‘America first’’ vestments (think factories and equipment, rhetoric, many suspected that the tax plan wealthiest Americans while it raises including for manufacturing). As Rosenthal he would support would actually increase the notes, ‘‘because ‘routine’ returns are not sub- taxes on a majority of families who incentives for U.S. multinationals to move ject to U.S. tax, this definition of ‘routine’ will be making less than $75,000 in the both profits and operations overseas. I wrote returns could give U.S. firms a perverse in- coming years. Instead of closing tax about this inevitability a few weeks ago, be- centive to shift more tangible assets to loopholes like the shameful one that fore the details of the Trump-GOP tax plan lower-taxed overseas locations.’’ That allows Wall Street hedge fund man- emerged. means, under the GOP bills, if you shift less agers to pay a lower tax rate than a Now that the bill is advancing, it’s clear profitable operations to a tax haven you that things aren’t as bad as many feared. Hoosier firefighter, than a Hoosier would pay zero taxes on those operations as They’re worse. long as you are only making 10 percent a teacher, than a Hoosier policeman, or a As discussed in the previous piece, Trump year—whether that is $10 million or $100 mil- Hoosier steel worker—imagine a hedge administration economic officials argue that lion—while you would pay 20 percent if the fund manager’s tax rate being lower by lowering the corporate tax rate from 35 operations were located in the United States. than that man’s or woman’s who is percent to 20 percent and moving to what is So, the ‘‘minimum’’ tax is really a much fighting a fire in Evansville this year. called a territorial system—mainly, compa- lower rate than 10 percent, and would essen- This bill preserves these giveaways. nies pay taxes on foreign earnings only to tially be an invisible, non-existent tax ex- the foreign nation where those profits are Think of that. It is outrageous. cept on highly profitable operations and in- booked and never owe anything to the U.S. come from intangibles. Instead of protecting American jobs no matter how low the foreign nation’s tax Second, this limitation to only excess prof- by adopting provisions from my End rate is—would lead to more jobs and profits its encourages even more shifting of oper- Outsourcing Act—an effort that Presi- staying in or coming back to the United ations and jobs overseas through complex ef- dent Trump has told me on numerous States. forts to blend different income streams.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.052 S19DEPT1 S8106 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 How? Profits from ‘‘intangibles’’ like patents in America. Our kids and our grandkids the standard deduction. No longer will do not receive the 10 percent exemption for will be paying the bill for this tax cut they have to spend hours sifting ‘‘routine’’ returns, so the minimum tax is that puts money in the pockets of the through receipts and forms to deter- seemingly designed to at least capture those very, very wealthy. That is almost be- mine what they can and cannot deduct. well-known cases where major technology Middle-income taxpayers can also ex- companies shift intangibles to low-tax na- yond belief. tions and book their profits there. If a com- We need tax reform that actually pect to see significant tax cuts. A me- pany does that and earns extraordinary prof- benefits Hoosiers who go to work in the dian income family of four could see its, a global minimum tax would capture dark and come home in the dark. These their tax bill reduced by over $2,000. some piece of that. But again, here is where are the folks that I run into at church This is relief that families will see al- the GOP bill’s global ‘‘averaging’’ actually or who stop by my office or I see at the most immediately, as less tax is with- creates the incentives to move jobs and oper- gas station or at the diner. They look held from their paychecks. This tax re- ations overseas. me in the eye, and they tell me they lief stems from many pro-family and Let’s say a U.S. multinational has highly are working hard to make a decent liv- pro-middle-class income tax provisions profitable intangibles located in a tax haven in the legislation. that earn $50 million in income without any ing, to pay the bills, to raise their fam- tangible investment. If the company has no ilies, and to have a shot at retiring First, there is the nearly doubling of other foreign profits or operations, then that with dignity. They are not looking for the standard deduction. For families, income would face a mere $5 million in U.S. any handouts. They simply want a this means the first $24,000 of their in- taxes from the 10 percent minimum tax good-paying job and a fair shake. Un- come will be exempt from tax alto- under the GOP plan. But if the company de- fortunately, this bill is a significant gether. As a result, a significant num- cides to build a new $1 billion factory over- missed opportunity to provide relief to ber of lower income Americans will be seas that earns profits of only 5 percent ($50 middle-class families and to protect removed from the tax rolls entirely. million) from the factory, the company will Second, the middle-income tax not pay a penny in U.S. taxes on its income American jobs. From the very, very beginning of this brackets are significantly lowered and from the factory or the intangibles. Why? expanded to include more taxpayers. Because when you add the income together, debate, I have engaged in a good faith the $50 million from the intangibles plus the effort to exchange ideas and priorities This includes reducing the current 15 $50 million from the new factory, it equals for what we would like this tax bill to percent bracket to 12 percent, and the 25 percent bracket to 22 percent. the ‘‘routine’’ profit of 10 percent on the $1 look like and to work together in a bi- Third, the tax bill specifically recog- billion of new tangible investment, which partisan manner. I worked to improve will allow it to completely avoid paying nizes the costs associated with raising the bill that my colleagues have rushed taxes on any of the above mentioned profits. a child by doubling the child tax credit This shows how deeply the tax plan fails through in a largely closed and par- from $1,000 to $2,000. Furthermore, to when it comes to incentives to shift profits tisan process. That includes my sup- ensure that lower income families with and operations overseas and to curtail the port for Senator RUBIO’s effort to ex- children are able to benefit from this obsession of major multinational companies pand the child tax credit for hard- expansion, the refundable portion of with international tax arbitrage that has working families, for which I give him nothing to do with innovation, productivity the tax credit is increased from $1,000 much credit. to $1,400. or job creation. Indeed, the ability to blend Our country is stronger when we income from intangibles and routine profits, While my colleagues on the other and from investment in higher tax nations work together and when we pass legis- side of the aisle have attempted to with tax havens with zero taxes, leads to a lation that focuses on the middle class claim that this tax bill is all out to worst of all worlds scenario: an even greater and on regular families and that leaves help the wealthy, I want to make very corporate focus on international tax mini- a better future for all our children. clear that this is simply not true. This mization through a careful mixture of shift- Sadly, that is not what this bill would is evidenced from the features of the ing profits and operations overseas. do. This bill raises taxes on many mid- If there was one thing the GOP inter- bill that I just discussed, but, also, if dle-class families, makes healthcare you need more evidence, look no fur- national tax bill was advertised to accom- more expensive, does not address out- plish, it was that it would favor locating jobs ther than the distribution analysis of and profits in the United States. It does just sourcing, and significantly increases the bill by the nonpartisan Joint Com- the opposite—expanding the degree our tax our national debt. mittee on Taxation of the Congress of system tilts the playing field against Amer- I yield the floor. the United States. According to the ican taxpayers and American workers. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- analysis of the Joint Committee on Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, the ator from Iowa. Taxation, on average, every income majority leader’s bill before us today Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, group will experience a tax cut, with continues the same broken tax system today we have the opportunity to pass the largest percentage tax cuts going that incentivizes companies to move the most sweeping changes to our Tax to the middle-income groups. More- jobs to foreign countries, hurting more Code in more than 30 years. This his- over, the tax bill would make the Tax American communities and undercut- toric moment is long overdue, and my Code more progressive, with taxpayers ting thousands of working American constituents in Iowa will benefit from earning more than $1 million shoul- families. it. dering a larger share of the tax burden In Indiana, we know there is no such Since the last tax reform effort in than they do under current law. thing as a free lunch. In the Hoosier 1986, the Tax Code has grown out of The bill also enacts much needed tax State, we work hard and we expect ev- control in both length and complexity. relief for job creators. It provides a sig- eryone else to pay their fair share. The All told, taxpayers spend over 6 billion nificant deduction on business income tax bill we are considering cuts taxes hours annually just complying with for small businesses, effectively low- for corporations and the wealthy by the dictates of the Internal Revenue ering the top tax rate to under 30 per- asking some middle-class families to Code. Moreover, our outdated cor- cent. All small businesses down to the pay more and by making healthcare porate tax system puts American com- smallest family-owned corner store and more expensive for millions and mil- panies at a competitive disadvantage the family farmer stand to benefit lions of Americans. as they try to compete in the 21st cen- from this provision. As small busi- According to the nonpartisan Com- tury global economy. nesses are responsible for creating the mittee for a Responsible Federal Budg- The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will make majority of new jobs, this is a key pro- et, if we account for budget gimmicks, good on our commitment to provide vision promoting economic growth and the cost of this bill could reach $2.2 significant tax relief to middle-income job creation. trillion—not billion but trillion dol- taxpayers both in my State of Iowa and Additionally, the bill lowers the stat- lars. in the entire United States, while mak- utory corporate rate down from the Here is what that means. This means ing the Tax Code simpler, fairer, and, highest in the developed world to 21 our kids’ and our grandkids’ pay- obviously, more pro-growth. percent. The highest rate in the devel- checks, the hard-earned money they The bill provides significant tax sim- oped world at 35 percent makes our make in the years ahead, will be sent plification for the vast majority of tax current corporate tax rate on Amer- to China to pay for tax cuts that will filers. Most taxpayers will find that ican companies the highest of those in- be given today to the wealthiest people they are better off simply by taking dustrialized nations and puts us at a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.004 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8107 competitive disadvantage globally, held on this bill, denying the American tution to rush through such a sweeping costing American jobs. people an opportunity to add their bill, through an arcane process of rec- Moreover—and this is important for voices to the debate. When the Senate onciliation intended to secure the low- the John Deere workers in Waterloo, voted on its version of this bill in the est possible number of votes to suc- IA, or in any other corporation—econo- dead of night, Senators only received ceed, without the benefit of public mists generally agree that a significant the text a few hours before the vote, opinion, or even public review. portion of the corporate tax falls on and even then, the text was hastily put After one of the least productive ses- workers in the form of reduced wages. together, with scribbles written into sions of Congress that I can recall, Re- Estimates of this burden of the cor- the margins. We discovered that lobby- publicans are so desperate for a win porate tax on workers ranges from a ists knew more about what was in it that they will mortgage away our fu- low of 25 percent to a high of 70 per- than those of us who had the responsi- ture. This bill is not tax reform. This is cent. While the exact amount may be bility to vote on it. No wonder that it a cartoonish caricature of what real debated by economists, one thing is was loaded with last-minute special in- tax reform should look like. It is dis- very clear. A corporate rate reduction terest giveaways. honest to its core. It is cynical, and it will result in bigger paychecks for There is serious doubt this bill will can only breed more cynicism by the hard-working Americans. benefit the middle class, as Repub- public. It is bad policy, it is indefen- These business tax reforms are cru- licans claim. What we do know is that sible policy, and it is wrong. cial to getting our economy growing. it will result in millions of fewer in- It is said that every generation has a We can’t continue to settle for the ane- sured Americans and higher healthcare responsibility to leave our Nation bet- mic growth of less than 2 percent that premiums for millions more. At the ter, brighter, and stronger for the gen- we have experienced since 2010. Lower same time, corporations will receive a erations that follow. This tax bill ac- tax rates, coupled with greater expens- windfall in permanent tax cuts that complishes none of those goals. ing of depreciated equipment under the will bust our budget for decades to I strongly oppose—I reject—this con- bill, will encourage new capital invest- come. Even more appallingly, it in- ference report, and the crass, partisan ments that are necessary to increase cludes special provisions that will di- path that brought us here. productivity, generating both higher rectly benefit the President and some Mr. GRAHAM. Mr. President, as in wages and higher growth. Members of Congress. It doesn’t end many other industries, the insurance The bill before us signals the faith we there. Republicans have yet to address sector, both property/casualty and life, have in the ingenuity and entrepre- the $1 trillion in cuts to Medicare, So- have become more globalized than any neurial spirit of the American people, cial Security, and other programs vital time in history. Disasters such as 9/11 rather than putting our faith in gov- to the American people, which will be transformed the property and casualty ernment to grow the economy. We do spurred by the passage of this bill. This industry. The life insurance industry this to get our economy on the right bill cynically and surreptitiously sets has followed, with an increasing track, and this legislation will put us the stage for those slashing cuts. amount of insurance risk transferred on the right track. In all, tax reform This is a bill that cheats our future to affiliates and nonaffiliates around will put more money in the pockets of for the sake of a tax-cut windfall for the globe. middle-class Americans, make U.S. in- the 1 percent. It does absolutely won- This business model is impacted di- dustry and workers more competitive, derful things for the wealthiest tax- rectly by the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and get the economy growing again payers, like the President, his cronies, which moves the United States from a after 8 years of stagnation—the most and his family. If he wants to dispute mostly global international system, stagnation in any decade since World that, he should finally release his tax where we tax American companies and War II. returns and prove to the American peo- individuals on their worldwide income, This is a historic opportunity to help ple that the ‘‘Christmas present’’ the toward a territorial system. Under the Americans from every walk of life. I President talks about will not, in fact, new system, companies are to be taxed look forward to joining my colleagues benefit his bottom line. in the United States on the income de- to pass this once-in-a-generation tax What we do know is this bill does not rived here and are to be taxed on their bill and have it signed into law before advance the common good. It offers lit- foreign earnings by the nations in the new year. tle but crumbs on the table and coal in which that income is derived. I yield the floor. the stockings of hard-working Ameri- What we are seeking to do here is to Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, little cans, while the wealthiest individuals encourage enterprises to start in the more than a month ago, the Tax Cuts and corporations reap the rewards of United States, to expand in the United and Jobs Act was unveiled in the Sen- this bill, with the false promise of States, and to bring as many foreign ate. Just a few short weeks later, we trickle-down benefits to everyone else. operations home as they can while re- are on the verge of passing a colossal The wealthiest are doing just fine, and maining not only competitive, but in- bill, publicly available for just 4 days, big corporations already are pulling in novative leaders in creating new prod- that makes sweeping changes to every record profits, which they are not in- ucts and services. The new 21-percent aspect of our economy. We are moving vesting but salting away. More than 400 corporate rate will help do just that. so fast that the American people would millionaires have urgently told Con- However, this bill does not take us be forgiven for thinking we were ad- gress that they don’t need more tax fully to a territorial system. The bill dressing a national emergency; yet cuts. applies a minimum tax on certain pay- fires are still blazing in California, Republicans will continue to claim ments to foreign affiliates. At 21 perpower in Puerto Rico is still not fully that their bill represents serious tax cent, the U.S. can compete with vir- restored, and victims around the gulf reform, but the public isn’t fooled. Poll tually any nation in the world, but if of Hurricanes Harvey, Irma, and Maria after poll shows that the American some nations have a corporate rate of, are still struggling to pick up the people see this bill for what it is: a be- say, 5 percent or less, then the new sys- pieces and rebuild. There are indeed trayal of the middle class and a be- tem will incentivize companies to national emergencies we should be ad- trayal of American values. They have move their operations overseas, so the dressing, but instead of doing so, Re- seen enough of trickle-down economics bill includes a minimum tax. It is publicans in Congress are focused first to know that the benefits never flow to called the base erosion antiabuse tax. on passing tax cuts for corporations them. At the end of the day, it is clear The first year, the base erosion tax is and billionaires—tax cuts that will add that this bill was never really about essentially a minimum tax of 5-percent an estimated $1.5 trillion to the deficit. the middle class; it was about the Re- tax without deduction for certain pay- The process that led to the bill we publican donor class. ments made by a U.S. company to its are voting on today has been fun- I wish we had gone down a different foreign affiliates. Starting in 2019, that damentally flawed from the outset. path, one where both parties worked minimum tax increases to 10 percent. From the beginning, this bill has been together to provide real relief to the We do not want companies moving written behind closed doors by Senate working families we all represent. It mobile assets around the world to find Republicans. No hearings were ever belies the storied history of this insti- the lowest corporate tax rate. However,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.054 S19DEPT1 S8108 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 I do not think we should be taxing en- money being held overseas to fund the If you boil down the inaccurate asser- terprises on payments that never actu- infrastructure improvements we need tions, you come up with two basic ally leave the U.S., but instead are ob- across the country. We should simplify points. One, that the bill before us cuts ligations that are combined with obli- the code and help middle-class Ameri- taxes for wealthy taxpayers propor- gations from the foreign affiliate to cans pay their bills. tionately more than it does for middle- the U.S. parent. That is where clari- But I have been disappointed by the income taxpayers. Two, this bill raises fication is needed as to how this base most recent effort, which has not been taxes on middle-income taxpayers. erosion tax will work in the context of bipartisan at all and has resulted in a Nothing like some old-fashioned non- U.S. insurance policies that are rein- bill that will add to the debt, create partisan light to cut through the par- sured overseas. huge new loopholes that will encourage tisan fog created by my friends on the Under current law, reinsurance is al- companies to move money around and other side. ready subject to a gross premium ex- move jobs overseas to avoid taxes, and I refer to a set of tables developed by cise that serves as an antibase erosion will have huge unintended con- the nonpartisan official congressional tax of sorts. Adding the base erosion sequences for our economy. tax scorekeeper, the Joint Committee tax on top of that could be detrimental One of the most troubling develop- on Taxation, which I will ask consent to these U.S. insurance companies. ments of this bill was the inclusion of to have printed in the RECORD. However, how the base erosion tax is a provision to repeal a key part of the The tables show significant tax cut computed may be determinative of Affordable Care Act that would kick 13 for middle-income taxpayers. whether the tax is tolerable. I believe million people off their insurance by Let’s take a look at taxpayers in which the median U.S. income reside. I that, with respect to reinsurance, the 2027 and increase premiums by 10 per- am talking about taxpayers at income base erosion tax was intended to apply cent in the individual market. That levels between $50,000 and $75,000. In only on net payments actually made. means less money in the pockets of Under certain forms of reinsurance American middle-class families. The 2019, two-thirds of taxpayers receive a that are commonly used in the life in- American people want us to work to- tax cut of greater than $500. In 2021, surance industry, called modified coin- gether to make fixes to the Affordable 61.7 percent receive a tax cut of greater surance or funds withheld coinsurance, Care Act, not move backwards with a than $500. In 2023, 54.8 percent of taxpayers will receive a tax cut of greater underlying investments are retained by partisan approach to healthcare added than $500. In 2021, 53 percent of tax- the U.S. insurer, which is subject to into a tax bill. payers receive a tax cut of greater than tax on the earnings from the invest- This bill also hurts middle-class fam- $500. The individual income tax cuts ments. Under these arrangements, the ilies by doing a bait and switch. Under sunset in 2026. reinsurance payments are taken into the bill, millions of middle-class Amer- icans would end up paying more in Let’s take a look at another middle- account for purposes of the base ero- income group, those in the $75,000 to sion tax only when the U.S. insurance taxes in the long run. Many of the tax cuts they receive, if they receive a tax $100,000 cohort. In 2019, 77.8 percent of company actually makes payments to cut at all, would only be temporary. those taxpayers receive a tax cut of its foreign affiliate. This bill would allow a one-time op- greater than $500. In 2021, that figure is My understanding of the conference portunity to bring back some of the 72.2 percent. In 2023, that figure is 63.1 report is that it intended to limit the trillions of dollars of earnings held percent. In 2025, that figure is 61.4 per- base erosion payment to the net overseas by U.S. companies. I have cent. The individual tax cuts expire in amount paid to the foreign reinsurer, long supported this, but I also would 2026. taking into account the amounts owed like to see at least part of any of the I ask my friends on the other side to by the reinsurer to the U.S. party. billions in taxes raised by this provi- shut down their rhetorical fog ma- That result is consistent with one of sion to be used to fund infrastructure. chine. Stop the phony characterization the fundamental principles underlying The American Society of Civil Engi- of this bill as a tax cut for the wealthy. the Tax Cut and Jobs Act of 2017: As- neers’ 2017 report card gave our Na- Recognize it for what it is, a tax cut sets generating income should be taxed tion’s infrastructure an overall D-plus for Americans that is focused on mid- where those assets are sited. In deter- grade. There is an economic imperative dle-income families. mining the amount of base erosion pay- to fixing our infrastructure: Businesses Mr. BURR. Mr. President, I rise ments, the amount of premium paid to rely on our transportation network to today to speak on the Tax Cuts and the reinsurer must be offset by any remove goods to market. If our deterio- Jobs Act and the significance of this turn premium, ceding commission, re- rating infrastructure goes unaddressed, historic legislation to all Americans. insurance recovered, or other amount it will cost our economy nearly $4 tril- It has been more than 31 years since received the insurance company with lion by 2025, leading to the loss of 2.5 comprehensive tax reform was passed respect to the reinsurance for which million jobs. That is a crisis that we by Congress and signed into law by such premium is paid to the reinsurer. have an opportunity to address through President Reagan, and it has been Moreover, this treatment is consistent a tax bill, but we aren’t. It is a missed nearly two decades since the United with the regulatory accounting regime opportunity. States has experienced a period of sus- imposed by the National Association of If done right, we can close loopholes, tained economic growth of 3 percent or Insurance Commissioners. bring back money U.S. companies are more. Consistent with those principles, holding overseas to fund infrastructure Similar to the Tax Code prior to the base erosion payments do not include projects here at home, give local busi- last major overhaul, today’s Tax Code amounts paid to a foreign affiliate that nesses the ability to compete against is overly complex and burdensome on are subject to U.S. income tax. For ex- out-of-State Internet retailers, support American families and businesses. The ample, payments to a foreign partner- our rural communities, and provide in- current code is riddled with nearly 200 ship by a U.S. taxpayer that the for- centives to keep jobs in America. tax deductions, credits, exclusions, and eign partnership certifies are effec- I have always said we could bring tax breaks that ‘‘cost’’ the government tively connected income are not base down the corporate tax rate, but not by nearly $1.5 trillion in lost revenue each erosion payments. The income has not adding $1.5 trillion to the debt. We need year. These costs unnecessarily burden been shifted offshore, and there has to work together to pass a tax plan hard-working Americans, who spend been no erosion of the tax base. that works for everyone, one that helps more than 6 billion hours each year to Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, middle-class families and Main Street understand their tax liability and com- today we are voting on the motion to businesses, and without blowing up the ply with filing requirements. adopt the conference report on H.R. 1, deficit. The Finance Committee began to lay the Tax Reconciliation Act. I will be I encourage my colleagues to join me the groundwork for tax reform years voting against adoption of the con- in opposing this conference report. ago, during which time the committee ference report. Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I have held over 70 hearings on how to reform I have long called for tax reform. We listened to the comments of my friends the Tax Code and promote economic should bring down the business income on the other side for several hours. growth. In the 113th Congress, the com- tax rate. We should bring back the Frankly, it has tried my patience. mittee also formed five bipartisan

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.022 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8109 working groups to examine options for Mr. TILLIS. Mr. President, when we evaluates insurance reserves; how the reform. This years-long process has en- pursue tax reform, invariably those im- limitations on business interest de- abled us to produce the Tax Cuts and pacted will voice concerns along the ductibility affects different sectors, Jobs Act, and I am confident this legis- way. I know this from experience, hav- particularly those that rely heavily on lation, based on ideas from both par- ing done tax reform in North Carolina. debt to operate; ensuring that there is ties, will benefit all Americans by en- Everyone was for tax reform until it continued parity for pass through enti- suring our Nation remains competitive came to protecting their individualized ties in the new territorial system by in the global economy. interests. However, reform was not preserving appropriate export incen- The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act will make about protecting tax benefits for the tives in the Tax Code; and many others American businesses competitive again rich or the like, as some of my col- that are so important to State and by permanently lowering the corporate leagues have suggested—understand- local economies. rate to roughly the average rate that ably, for political purposes. When I did tax reform in North Caro- our competitors have already adopted. Tax reform is what we can do as a lina as the speaker of the North Caro- This legislation will also end the lock- Congress to help spur economic lina State House, I received many of out affect many American businesses growth. Without growth, we cannot the same criticisms that I have re- face today by adopting a territorial solve our Nation’s problems. Having an ceived as we have gone through this system. This will encourage American uncompetitive tax code hampers the current reform process. Our hard work companies to invest their profits here ability of the middle class to grow and paid off in North Carolina, and I beat home and hire more people. prosper. lieve that it will pay off for America— On the individual side, this legisla- Through this process, we have fought as a global competitor and for all tion will lower individual income tax to ensure that there are appropriate Americans. rates for all Americans and greatly transition rules and protections for Thank you. I look forward to sup- simplify the code by roughly doubling various strategic sectors in our econ- porting this conference report, and I the standard deduction. According to omy, and I am proud of the work that look forward to working with my col- the Joint Committee on Taxation, this both Chambers of Congress have done leagues in the future as we continue will result in fewer than 10 percent of through the conference process. our collective pursuit to make America Americans itemizing deductions, mean- When we debated the Senate’s tax re- the most competitive it can be and as ing the vast majority of Americans will form package on the floor, some of my we continue to help America achieve benefit from tax simplification. colleagues offered amendments on dis- its economic potential. I am especially pleased the Tax Cuts crete issues, and I believe that, for Mr. LANKFORD. Mr. President, we and Jobs Act preserves the child and many of these issues, we attempted to commend Senator HATCH for his efforts dependent care tax credit and depend- embrace, as a body, a process that de- on this most important bill. We would ent care flexible spending accounts, en- fines problems and works to solve like to ask for confirmation on a ques- hances the ABLE Act, and sharply re- them. tion that will be of considerable impor- duces the number of Americans who I also believe that the conference tance to millions of seniors housing are subject to the Alternative Min- committee did a good job working with residents, including those living in as- imum Tax, a parallel tax system that JCT and the Finance Committee to ad- sisted living and memory care resi- adds layers of complexity. dress issues, without jeopardizing the dences and in continuing care retire- This is historic legislation that hard- underlying tax reform measure. ment communities, CCRCs. working Americans across the country For other issues that were not able to As you know, capital for seniors have long deserved, and I look forward be addressed in theconference report, I housing, including assisted living and to passing this legislation tonight to believe that legislating is an exercise memory care residences and CCRCs, es- ensure all Americans have more eco- of continued and systematic work. sentially comes from the same lending nomic opportunity and prosperity for That means we need to come back next sources that fund other types of real years to come. estate. HUD, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, Mr. HOEVEN. Mr. President, today I year in a reconciliation process and and commercial banks finance seniors wish to discuss an important provision continue to improve upon this legisla- housing through their respective hous- in the tax conference agreement that tion. relates to the 20-percent deduction for As an example of some of the work ing related programs. Seniors housing certain passthrough income for agri- that we must still do, I do not believe competes with other real estate based cultural cooperatives. that we should penalize companies for investments for both equity and debt I was pleased to see that the con- voluntary repatriation and believe that and it is critical that our tax law treat ference report fairly treats certain dis- there should be targeted transition these seniors housing units in a man- tributions from farmer cooperatives to rules in place to consider those who ner that is comparable to other hous- their patron. This treatment will en- have a history of voluntary repatri- ing. sure that farmers will not see a tax in- ation and are not simply doing so late Provisions relating to the deduction crease at a time of depressed agricul- in the year as tax reform became a re- for business interest and to the deduc- tural prices. alistic possibility. That said, I under- tion for depreciation in the bill include I would like to clarify a drafting stand that some things are not always rules governing a ‘‘real property trade change that occurred in moving from achievable, and it is tough to treat or business,’’ as that term is currently the Senate language to the conference some companies differently than others defined in the tax law. Under these report language. Specifically, section when everyone is making sacrifices. rules, the conferees stated that they 199A(c)(1) provides that the term Another area that I think needs to be intended that a real property operation ‘‘qualified business income’’ does not worked on in future iterations of tax or a real property management trade include any ‘‘qualified cooperative reform are tailored transition rules for or business includes the operation or dividends,’’ as defined by the bill. I different strategic sectors like the en- management of a lodging facility. We would like to clarify that in this sen- ergy sector, manufacturing sector, and would like to ask the distinguished tence, the terms ‘‘qualified business in- other industries that have foreign tax chairman of the Committee on Finance come’’ and ‘‘qualified cooperative divi- credits stranded overseas. Addition- if he agrees with us that the operation dends’’ are mutually exclusive and that ally, as we evaluate how the tax treat- or management of residential rental the intent is that these terms are to be ment for passthrough entities unfolds, property housing the elderly, such as treated separately under sections we need to ensure that we are appro- an assisted living residential facility, 199A(a)(1) and (2), as they were under priately regulating and taxing capital memory care residence, or a continuing the Senate bill. deployers so that we are fully realizing care retirement community, are not Also, I believe that the definition of their potential contributions to eco- excluded from the definition of a ‘‘real ‘‘qualified cooperative dividends’’ in- nomic growth. property trade or business’’ merely be- cludes ‘‘per unit retains paid in In its totality, I was happy to see cause they provide necessary supple- money,’’ PURPIMs, paid under that there was common ground found mental assistive services that meet the 1382(b)(3). on issues such as: how JCT scores and needs of aging seniors.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:01 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.023 S19DEPT1 S8110 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I agree. the only place that Carlos has known When it comes to legislation this im- Mr. PERDUE. Mr. President, I rise as his home. I had the opportunity to portant, we must follow the regular today to engage in a colloquy with my visit with a number of young people order. We must see a full analysis by friend and colleague, the distinguished who are very much like Carlos. They the Congressional Budget Office and chairman of the Senate Finance Com- have gotten in a bus, they have come the Joint Committee on Taxation. We mittee, Senator HATCH. to Washington, they call themselves must hear from the best tax experts in I would like to confirm my under- the New Mexico dream team, and it is the country. The American people standing of the modification of the sec- a remarkable story. They told many must understand the plan, and every tion 958(b) stock attribution rules con- stories to me about their situations Member of Congress must fully under- tained in the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. that sounded very much like Carlos’s stand its impacts. We are not there. The Senate Finance Committee expla- story. They urge us to protect them. Republicans and the President are nation of this bill, as released by the They are fearful, they are emotional, not being straight about what this plan Senate Budget Committee, definitively but they are also strong and coura- will mean for the average American. states, ‘‘This provision is not intended geous. Let’s remember these are some They aren’t talking about how it will to cause a foreign corporation to be of our very best and brightest young affect the President’s own personal treated as a controlled foreign corpora- people. We cannot lose them. We must taxes. He touts it as a tax cut for the tion with respect to a U.S. shareholder continue to fight for a clean Dream middle class and working Americans, as a result of attribution of ownership Act—no doubt about it—and we need to but not one single objective analysis under section 318(a)(3) to a U.S. person remember the 11 million undocumented says it is designated to help the middle that is not a related person (within the immigrants who are here in the United class, and his Treasury Department’s meaning of Section 954(d)(3)) to such States and strive and fight for true im- one-page so-called analysis predicting U.S. shareholder as a result of the re- migration reform. a $300 billion surplus is built on unreal- Mr. President, working families in peal of section 958(b)(4).’’ istic growth assumptions that no seri- New Mexico want good jobs and good I would like to confirm that the con- ous economist accepts. Even Repub- wages. They want affordable ference report language did not change licans have said the bill is about help- healthcare and retirement security. or modify the intended scope this ing their donors and cutting taxes for statement. As you know, I filed an They want a job and educational opportunities for their children, but the Re- big corporations. amendment to the Senate bill, Senate The American people are not blind. publican’s latest tax plan does nothing amendment No. 1666 would have codi- They aren’t fooled by the administra- for regular families in New Mexico or fied this explanatory text of the Fi- tion’s fake numbers, and they oppose across the country. It will not create nance Committee report. this plan. Recent polling, as recent as good-paying jobs, not now nor for our I also want to confirm that the December 13, shows that 55 percent of children. It will kick 13 million people Treasury Department and the Internal Americans disapprove of the bill. off healthcare and raise insurance pre- Revenue Service should interpret the Sixty-five percent say the wealthy ben- miums. Their plan threatens Medicare, stock attribution rules consistent with Medicaid, and Social Security, and it efit the most, and almost all pollsters this explanation of the bill. does nothing to improve public edu- come out somewhere in that range. Mr. HATCH. The Senator is correct. Now, let’s look at some of the hard, cation or bring down the high cost of The conference report language for the cold numbers. First, we know the Re- bill does not change or modify the in- college. The Republican tax plan overwhelm- publicans propose adding $1.5 trillion tended scope of the statement he cites. ingly benefits the rich by giving huge to the debt over the next 10 years. This The Treasury Department and the In- tax breaks to their campaign donors, chart shows the difference between the ternal Revenue Service should inter- to the superwealthy, big corporations, Federal deficit under current law and pret the stock attribution rules con- multinational businesses, and hedge the massive increase in the deficit sistent with this explanation, as refunds. One of the biggest problems is, under the Senate Republicans’ plan. leased by the Senate Budget Com- the Republican plan will drive up the Current law is in blue, as you can see mittee. I would also note that the rea- debt by $1.5 trillion, and that means here, and the Republicans’ plan is in son his amendment No. 1666 was not they will have to take a hatchet to pro- red. It is pretty dramatic—pretty dra- adopted is because it was not needed to grams working families rely on. This is matic. Republicans represent them- reflect the intent of the Senate Fi- not a responsible or a fair tax plan. It selves as the party of fiscal responsi- nance Committee or the conferees for is a hocus-pocus tax sham, and I oppose bility, but incurring this amount of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act. it. debt to give big tax breaks to the rich I thank my friend from Georgia for I have to reflect a little on this first is patently irresponsible. his leadership on this issue to ensure year that we have seen under President To pay for this debt, the government that the stock attribution rules oper- Trump and the Republican majority— will have to borrow by selling Treasury ate consistent with our intent and do what a year of lost opportunities. If the bills, notes, bonds, securities, and sav- not result in unintended consequences. Republicans had worked with us during ings bonds. Based on estimates from I look forward to continuing to work this year, we could have had at least the JTC and the CBO, the govern- with him on this important issue. two big bipartisan achievements. We ment’s cost to borrow to pay for this Mr. PERDUE. I thank the chairman could have had a bipartisan improve- debt will be over $40 billion over the for the clarification and appreciate his ment on healthcare, built on the suc- next 10 years and even more after that outstanding leadership and work on cesses of the Affordable Care Act, and unless we pay off the debt. The Amer- this important and historic legislation. we could have had a fair tax bill for all ican people will be on the hook for $1.5 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Americans. How sad partisanship and trillion. That is $12,742 for each and ator from New Mexico. politics got the upper hand. every American household today. My DACA The Senate and the House majority colleagues have come to the floor say- Mr. UDALL. Mr. President, thank are pushing this tax scam as fast as ing this tax bill will provide an average you for the recognition. I rise also to they can to hide it from the American tax cut of around $2,000 for 1 year in talk about the tax issue and this hor- people. We have not had proper hear- 2019. What they aren’t telling you is, rible tax cut, but I can’t help but men- ings. We have not heard from expert they are also opening a line of credit tion a little bit about what I went witnesses or had adequate independent on you and your family of $12,000. through the last hour or so with some analysis. Even the Republicans don’t This is the new Federal debt that wonderful young people in my office. know what is in it. My office has met would be taken out in every Ameri- First of all, there are 7,000 Dreamers with many New Mexicans raising red can’s name every year by the GOP. So in my home State of New Mexico. Here flags on the unintended consequences much additional borrowing by the Fed- is one of them, shown in this picture. of this bill. No Member of Congress—no eral Government can also drive up in- This is Carlos. Carlos was brought to Democrats or Republicans—has had terest rates. Higher interest rates New Mexico from Mexico when he was enough time to digest and understand mean higher costs for the government less than 1 year old, and New Mexico is this plan. to borrow. The Congressional Budget

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.028 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8111 Office estimates that if interest rates ‘‘My donors’’—and this is his quote, tive body. It is a not a product of are 1 percent higher annually than pro- Congressman COLLINS—‘‘My donors are meaningful public hearings. It is not a jected through 2027, the debt will be basically saying, ‘Get it done or don’t product of compromise or months of $1.5 trillion higher—that is 6 percent of ever call me again.’ ’’ hard work among multiple commit- gross domestic product—and the Making the superrich even richer tees. It is certainly not the product of amount each American owes on their doesn’t justify burdening our kids with a grand legislative idea that was des- new forced Federal credit card would huge government debt. It doesn’t ex- perately needed to meet the demands go up even more. cuse threatening American healthcare, of the public. The bill in front of us is Increased Federal interest rates have retirement security, and other vital the product of dysfunction, partisan- real consequences for the average programs, but cutting vital Federal ship, and political desperation. American. A rise in rates can price out programs is exactly the price the mid- Thirty years ago, the Senate passed a first-time home buyer; it can deter- dle class and working Americans will President Reagan’s tax reform 97 to 3. mine whether a young person can af- be expected to pay under the Repub- After the conference committee had ford to buy a car. The average Amer- licans’ tax sham. Their plan calls for worked it over, it passed overwhelm- ican consumer does not want to see in- $500 billion worth of cuts, and Speaker ingly with 74 votes. That could have terest rates go up. Increased govern- RYAN is already talking about where been the case today, but there was ment borrowing and interest rates can they will cut. He said: never an attempt to have an honest de- take up the economy’s lending capac- We are going to have to get back next year bate about this bill, and there was no ity and discourage the very private in- at entitlement reform, which is how you attempt to get bipartisan buy-in. I vestment Republicans say they want to tackle the debt and the deficit. Frankly, it’s reached out to lend my perspective and encourage. the healthcare entitlements that are the big Montana’s perspective—the perspective Giving massive tax cuts to the drivers of our debt, so we spend more time on of rural America—but my offer fell on wealthy also will force massive cuts in healthcare entitlements—because that is deaf ears, and I never heard back. revenue coming into the Federal Gov- really where the problem lies, fiscally speak- I asked the President to work with ing. ernment. When I first arrived in the me. I raised my concerns early, and Senate, Senator Kent Conrad from He wants to starve the Treasury to they have never made an attempt to North Dakota was chair of the Budget benefit the wealthy, and then he wants address those concerns. There was no Committee. He was a master on the to slash critical programs that create effort to reach across the aisle and Federal deficit and on the Federal jobs, support innovation, secure our build consensus for this bill. budget, and he understood the danger Nation, and help people pay for hous- Once again, the leadership of this of racking up huge deficits. In 2011, the ing, food, and medicine. body chose to draw a line in the sand. Budget Committee was concerned that I want to support tax cuts for middle- They chose to empower the fringes and the debt threatened the national secu- class families. I want to help make leave those in the middle out in the rity. The committee majority devel- sure that working people can take cold. As a result, the first major tax oped a budget framework that Senator home more of their pay. I also want to bill in Congress in a generation will Conrad presented on the floor that make sure we can pay for roads, likely pass with the support of only July. He showed us many charts that bridges, schools, scientific research, one party. That is not what the Found- day. One showed that the government and national defense. This bill doesn’t ing Fathers had in mind. had a budget surplus for only 5 of the do that; it does exactly the opposite. It As for me, I wanted a tax bill that last 50 years—that was in 1969, 1998, takes money from the middle-class would ensure that hard-working Mon- 1999, 2000, and 2001. In those years, reve- families and gives it to the ultrarich. tana families and businesses had a say nues were close to 20 percent of gross Then it leaves us with little to support in this process. I wanted to construct a domestic product. our communities, little for infrastruc- bipartisan bill that provided folks with Around the same time, the bipartisan ture, little to make the United States tax relief without adding to the debt. I Simpson-Bowles budget commission of America continue to lead the world wanted to simplify the Tax Code with- concluded that the Federal Govern- in innovation, science, and economic out gutting provisions that would help ment needed revenue equal to 21 per- might, and little to ensure that we build our middle class. Today, we are cent, but the Republicans’ current tax take care of those in need. stuck with this final bill that does cut legislation would leave the Federal This bill also fails Indian Country. none of those things, and our options Government with revenue of only 17 While giving billions of dollars of tax are yes or no. percent of GDP. breaks to corporations, this bill does There are some things in this bill Former Treasury Secretary Larry nothing to spur economic growth or at- that are good—three, to be exact. This Summers sounded alarm bells in an op- tract investments in our Native com- bill keeps in place important medical ed in the Washington Post on Decem- munities—not even basic, low-cost pro- deductions that benefit seniors and ber 10, and Larry Summers isn’t alone. visions to ensure that Tribes receive help them pay for care as they age. It Bruce Bartlett was an economic ad- the same tax benefits as other govern- expands the child tax credit to provide viser to Presidents Reagan and George ments, like State governments. Once a boost to families across the country. W. Bush. In a September Washington again, Tribes have been overlooked by It lowers income tax brackets to keep Post op-ed, he freely acknowledged the majority, despite early and vocal a few extra bucks in your pocket each that he ‘‘had a hand in creating the Re- Tribal input on tax parity in Indian year. But when we look at the bill, we publican tax myth.’’ He is referring to Country. have to weigh the good and the bad. the myth that tax cuts lead to robust I am prepared to roll up my sleeves Speaking of those individual tax economic growth. Mr. Bartlett now and work with Republicans on tax re- cuts—the ones I just talked about a few says: ‘‘Republican rhetoric around tax form that is fair, simplifies the Tax seconds ago—well, they are only tem- cutting’’ is ‘‘wishful thinking. . . . In Code, and keeps American businesses porary. They are short-term promises reality, there’s no evidence that a tax competitive, but I cannot support tax that will disappear with the wind. Esti- cut would spur growth.’’ cuts that lopsidedly benefit the mates show that more than 80 percent In other words, tax cuts will not spur ultrarich, hurt working families, ne- of this bill’s benefits will go to the top economic growth. They will create glect Indian Country, and balloon the 1 percent; 60 percent will go to the top more debt, squeeze consumers, and Federal deficit. one-tenth of 1 percent of our popu- mean steep cuts to vital government I yield the floor. lation. In fact, hard-working families programs. So why is the majority push- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- will actually see a tax hike within 10 ing so hard for them? Why do they ator from Montana. years. want this tax cut bill so badly? Mr. TESTER. Mr. President, tonight, But for this country’s biggest cor- There is really only one reason—for once again, Congress is proving to the porations, this bill makes their tax their donors. Representative CHRIS American people that Washington is cuts permanent. So at the same time COLLINS of New York was honest about broken. This bill is not a product of de- that taxes start rising for teachers and why he has to deliver tax cuts. He said, liberation of the world’s most delibera- farmers and electricians and nurses

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.057 S19DEPT1 S8112 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 and working folks, large corporations to tack on $1.5 trillion for the sake of working on the pressing issues around and big businesses will still be reaping giving the richest of the rich a tax ben- here, the next excuse is going to be en- the benefits from the giveaways in this efit and middle-class families a tem- titlement reform, which means we are piece of legislation. On top of huge ben- porary benefit that will go away over going to do our level best, in the name efits, this bill makes no attempt to en- the next 10 years. of the debt, to gut Medicare and Social sure that these corporations will use How they have so quickly forgotten Security. Who knows what else will be the savings to create more good-paying the fiscal restraint that we talked put on the chopping block to be ripped jobs. about when Democrats controlled this away from working families? This bill also destroys the foundation body. Our national debt is already This bill ties our hands and prevents of our healthcare system. Because of above $20 trillion. This is more than us from making the kinds of invest- this bill, 13 million Americans will be- $64,000 for every man, woman, and child ments we need to build a strong middle come uninsured, and everyone else’s in this country. The path we are on is class, which has been the envy of the premiums will go up by about 10 per- truly unsustainable. world, and it puts our most vulnerable cent. It will be more expensive to see It is not the first time we have been at risk. your doctor. It will be harder for rural down this road. Bush tax cuts were sold I am going to vote no on this bill be- hospitals and clinics to keep their to the American people, and we were cause it is a step backward. It raises doors open. More folks will end up in told that they would pay for them- the debt. It does nothing to solve the emergency rooms—the most expensive selves. Guess what. Today those Bush income inequality in this country, and medical treatment. They will be sick- tax cuts are directly responsible for it pushes the American dream further er, their treatment will be more expen- one-third of that $20 trillion debt. We out of reach. sive, and the rest of us will be forced to know this to be true. Yet here we are, I yield the floor. pay for it. about to swipe the credit card one The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- The bad list doesn’t stop there. It more time for over $1.5 trillion—to put ator from Hawaii. forces a $25 billion cut to Medicare. our kids and our grandkids on the hook Mr. SCHATZ. Mr. President, I want This bill pushes millions of people out to pay it back while we get temporary to cover what I think are the seven of itemizing their deductions—reducing relief and the large corporations get worst aspects of this tax bill. incentives to buy a home or donate to permanent relief. The first thing is that this is not a a charity. It caps State and local in- For those of us who were ignored dur- middle-class tax cut. Credible, inde- come tax deductions, and this targets ing this process, this is what we are pendent analysis of this bill found that middle-class families. It changes the stuck with. There are some good things the richest 1 percent of the United way we adjust tax brackets for infla- but a whole bunch of bad things—more States will get $85 billion of the bene- tion, which will force future genera- than I can count on my hands. We can’t fits in the year 2019. These Americans tions to play catchup. It will force celebrate the good things and ignore will get a tax cut of more than $55,000 State budgets into the red and put crit- the bad. Just because we ignore it per person while taxpayers who fall in ical healthcare, education, and law en- doesn’t mean that it is not going to the middle of the road will get a couple forcement initiatives on the chopping come true. of hundred bucks. Many in the middle block. It opens up the Arctic National This bill will not strengthen the mid- class will pay more because of this bill. Wildlife Refuge for oil drilling, but dle class. It will not improve our People making $30,000 or less will see that is not the worst thing about this schools. It will not lower the cost of a tax increase of about 10 percent. Even bill. The worst thing about this bill is healthcare. foreign investors will do better than it saddles our kids and grandkids with Let’s call it what it is. It is a tax the middle class in this bill. What do I more crushing debt. giveaway to the wealthy masked as tax mean by foreign investors? I mean for- In 2008 and 2009, this country was reform, and those who vote yes on this eign investors. I mean people who don’t going through one of the worst eco- bill will do so at the expense of our live in the United States but who own nomic crises since the 1930s. The debt kids and our grandkids. They will be stock or are investors in American was increased in that period of time. paying this tab long after we are gone. companies. In 2019, they will get a $48 People often say that the government What is ironic about this is that most billion tax benefit. That is a bigger needs to be run like a business. Well, if of the people who serve in this body benefit than more than half of the rest you have a business, and income is not say: I am here to make sure the next of the country will get from this bill. coming in, you have to borrow some generation has an opportunity. We are You have to work hard to design a tax money. That is what happened. With taking away their opportunity with plan that helps the middle class less the economic downturn, the money this bill. It will limit their oppor- than this one does. In fact, the Wash- wasn’t coming in, so our debt went up. tunity. It will cap their potential—all ington Post looked at this plan a few On the other side, if you are in business for what? I am not really sure because weeks ago and found that it is the and you are making a few bucks and when I go back to Montana every worst tax plan for the middle class in times are better—and they are good— weekend, folks aren’t stopping me on 50 years. Here is the thing. It shouldn’t you pay that debt down. Well, this the streets and telling me that the cor- be that hard to do a middle-class tax country is in a lot better shape now porations and the wealthy need a tax cut; you just do a middle-class tax cut. than it was in 2008 and 2009. We should giveaway. What they do tell me is this: The No. 2 reason this bill is horrible be paying that debt down at this mo- We need to make sure programs like is it is primarily written for special in- ment in time, not adding $1.5 trillion CHIP are around. We need to make terests. Republicans couldn’t give the to it. sure Medicare and Social Security are middle class a bigger tax break because I am going to tell you, as sure as I there for future generations. We need they needed all of that money for spe- am standing here today, within the to protect our public lands. We need to cial interests. Real estate firms will first quarter of 2018, there will be folks pass a farm bill that works. We need to see an immediate 16 percent decrease standing up on the other side of the invest in infrastructure. Folks, this tax in taxes next year. For families who aisle saying that we need to cut Medi- bill takes away all of that potential. own multimillion-dollar hotels, that care, we need to cut Social Security, We have been at war for 16 or 17 makes this a great bill. and we need to take away subsidies for years. The military needs rebuilding. It Big banks and financial firms also everyone, whether they be farmers, makes it much tougher. Everyone win. Over the next 10 years, financial mothers, young families, the disabled, knows what is going on in North Korea. firms will save $250 billion. Over the or veterans. Money that is used to keep The potential to have to spend a bunch next 10 years, financial firms will save our public lands in public hands, dol- of money there is real. Infrastructure— $250 billion. lars that are used to make education whether it is broadband, highways, The biggest single beneficiary is more affordable, dollars for healthcare bridges, or water systems—is in dire Wells Fargo. What I remember from overall—they will tell us that we sim- need of help. the last election was that the lesson ply cannot afford them because our The fact is, the tracks are greased; the voters were teaching us across debt is so high. But today we are going this bill is going to pass. Rather than America was a populous lesson, that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.059 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8113 they were sick of financial institutions One of the things I said to some of I rise to speak about the conference and the very powerful politically and my colleagues with whom I have a report we will be voting on later this the very powerful economically run- strong relationship is, listen, why don’t evening. Before I do that, I want to ning us. Here we are giving a massive we try to do this subject to a 60-vote mention a few folks by name who de- tax break to Wells Fargo, an estimated threshold? Why don’t we try to find bi- serve a big thank-you for the incredible 18-percent boost in earnings just for partisan agreement? And then, listen, work they did to get us to this terrific Wells Fargo. This is not a bank that if you find that we are operating with point we are at today. has been a good player recently. They you in bad faith, if you find that there I wanted to start with Leader MCCON- were mired in scandal after they bilked is no room for compromise, drop the NELL. His vision and leadership made customers into buying auto insurance threshold down and do it with a 51-vote this possible, and I am grateful for and created thousands of fake credit margin, but at least you will have ex- that. I want to mention Chairman card and bank accounts. hausted the possibility of bipartisan- HATCH, who also helped to guide the Fi- People are not getting a tax cut. Cor- ship. nance Committee, which has jurisdic- porations are getting a tax cut, and no They started with 51 votes. What tion over our Tax Code; Chairman one knows how we are going to pay for does that mean? That means they ENZI, the chairman of the Budget Com- all of this. never wanted to listen to Democrats. mittee—without a proper budget reso- This brings me to No. 3. If passed, That is why this process is so flawed. lution, this moment would not have this bill will increase the Federal def- And now the House just sent over a bill been possible; Chairman MURKOWSKI, icit by a minimum of $1.5 trillion. With that is so messed up, they are going to who has fought for so long to open up $1.5 trillion, we can pay down every have to vote again tomorrow. To fix this little tiny postage stamp in an in- single student loan in the country and the garbage they sent over this after- credibly remote part of Alaska to pru- still have enough money left over for noon, they are already talking about dent energy development, and finally, middle-class tax cuts. Instead, we are an additional technical fixes bill to do tonight we are going to pass the legis- going to make sure that Wells Fargo next year. This is the product that you lation to do that; Senator CORNYN, our investors have another banner year. get when you don’t have public hear- whip, who is also a member of the Fi- There was an entire group of Repub- ings, when you don’t have bipartisan- nance Committee and played a very licans elected to the Congress on the ship, and when you don’t take your important role; Senators THUNE, premise that the Federal debt and def- time. PORTMAN, and SCOTT, with whom I icit were too high and that we needed No. 6, this bill is bad for healthcare. worked very closely for a very ex- fiscal discipline and fiscal responsi- People’s premiums are going to sky- tended period of time to try to find the bility, and now they are adding $1.5 rocket, and 13 million Americans are consensus that I think we have reached trillion to the deficit. going to go without health insurance. among Republican Senators. No. 4, this bill is just bad economic No. 7, this bill increases income in- I want to mention Senator CORKER. I policy. It is premised on the idea that equality. This bill changes our tax sys- had many long and ultimately very if you provide a tax cut for corpora- tem to reward wealth over work. For fruitful conversations with Senator tions, they will share it, essentially; me, American capitalism is about, you CORKER, who approached this in a very that if you give money to a corporation work hard, you have a good idea, and thoughtful and responsible way. I am and they take that money and they re- you are rewarded. It is not about, your very grateful for him. invest it in their physical plant, they dad was rich, he passed the money I want to mention some of the staff make additional developments—maybe down, and you are rewarded. American who worked incredibly hard on this: they build a new factory, or maybe capitalism is about pulling yourself up Mark Warren, who handles tax policy they pay their people more. That by your bootstraps. But what we are for Senator THUNE; Zach Rudisill, who sounds great. Here is the problem: The doing with the Tax Code is unprece- works for Senator PORTMAN; Shay corporate sector is sitting on an un- dented—except for during the gilded Hawkins, who handled this brief for precedented amount of cash already. age. What we are doing with the Tax Senator SCOTT; Andrew Siracuse, who The corporate sector has lots of cash Code right now is saying: We value al- works for Senator CORNYN; and Bart already. So we have a lesson in what ready being rich more than we value Massey, who handled this responsi- they will do with extra cash, right? If someone who is climbing that moun- bility for Senator ENZI, and Matt they were going to use extra cash to tain. Giroux. They all did terrific work. pay their people more or invest more in That is a foundational moral ques- A big special thanks to some of the physical infrastructure or expand their tion—do we value work, or do we value guys on my staff who did an amazing businesses, they would already be wealth? The problem with this bill— job. Randy Herndon joined my team doing that because they are already and we can go through process and pol- earlier this year and did an absolutely sitting on record amounts of capital. icy and politics, but the foundational extraordinary job. Fortunately, he has But they are not doing that. What they problem with this bill is that, through an incredible wealth of knowledge are doing is stock buybacks and divi- this document, we are declaring that about tax policy, and he was able to dends. In other words, they are paying we value people’s wealth that already put that to work for Pennsylvanians off their shareholders. exists. We value passive income more and for Americans in a tremendously When a group of American CEOs was than we value earned income. And that constructive way. Brad Grantz, my leg- asked what they were going to do with is not good for the United States of islative director, also helped to guide the windfall money they are about to America. That is the problem with this this process. Dan Brandt, who is my receive, they did not say they are going bill. We are telling people that we chief of staff, did some great quarter- to pay their people more; they did not value people who already have money backing. say they are going to invest more in more than people who are climbing I should point out the Senate Fi- expanding their businesses; they indi- that hill. That is why I oppose this bill nance Committee staff who worked in- cated that they are going to do what so strongly, and I think that is why credible hours and did a great job—Jay they have been doing with their record people across America—for the very Khosla, Mark Prater, Jen Acuna, and amounts of cash, which is pour it back first time, at least in recent history the rest of the Senate Finance Com- into stock buybacks and dividends. but maybe in American history, we mittee staff, and also Brendan Dunn in This is bad economic policy. Forget have a tax cut bill that is so deeply un- the leader’s office, who played a very the moral part for a moment. Even at popular because people understand important role. the macroeconomic level, this is not what a rotten piece of legislation this Speaker RYAN and Chairman BRADY smart. is. I urge my colleagues to oppose it. in the other Chamber played an indis- No. 5, this is bad policy because it is I yield the floor. pensable role in getting us here, as did a bad process. This bill was written in The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Tom Barthold, who leads the Joint secret. It was rushed, and it was 100 ator from Pennsylvania. Committee on Taxation, quantifying percent partisan. We know it didn’t Mr. TOOMEY. Thank you, Mr. Presi- every wrinkle along the way in the have to be that way. dent. final product, as well as his team.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.060 S19DEPT1 S8114 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 I should also mention that the Presi- The net effect of all of this is that things they wanted to do. They had the dent provided constructive leadership every single income category pays less ability—and they did—huge, repeated along the way, and we worked exten- in taxes. You don’t have to take my tax increases with no reforms, a virtual sively with Treasury Secretary word for it; that is the joint tax non- takeover of healthcare, an avalanche of Mnuchin and the Director of the Na- partisan review of our bill. And low-in- new regulations, and a massive spend- tional Economic Council, Gary Cohn, come earners receive the largest per- ing binge. They did all of those things from the White House. centage of benefits of all. and, unsurprisingly, we got a weak This took a long time to put together For people who are listening to this economy, not a strong economy. and involved an enormous amount of debate, whether in the Chamber here or One of the specific problems we have work, but I am so proud of what we watching C–SPAN, I can understand had and that has plagued us ever since have brought to this floor and what I that they could be a little frustrated that recession is a collapse in the believe we are going to pass later this because they hear our Democratic col- growth of the capital stock, which evening. The process started over a leagues say: This is a terrible deal for caused a collapse in the growth of pro- year ago when members of the Finance the middle class. Some have even said ductivity, and without productivity, it Committee began to tackle what it is a tax increase. And they have is not at all surprising that workers seemed like a very daunting chal- heard me and other Republicans say aren’t getting raises. The path to high- lenge—the most ambitious tax reform this is absolutely a tax cut for the mid- er wages for workers is allowing work- in 31 years. Could we really overhaul dle class. Who are they to believe? I un- ers to become more productive. To be the entire Tax Code and achieve two derstand that frustration. more productive, they need better very important accomplishments and Let me suggest that there is a simple tools, and better tools are acquired do it with the very narrow majority we way to cut through all of this—there through investment. have, knowing that our Democratic are two, actually. So that was lacking, and that is the friends did not want to participate in No. 1, look what happened on the heart of what we are fixing. Our reform this process, and try to get this all the Senate floor during debate on this. The goes right to this challenge of lowering way across the goal line? same sort of argument was taking the cost of deploying capital. What do I am thrilled to be able to report that place when a Democratic Senator of- I mean by deploying capital? What I I think we have accomplished those fered an amendment to take our tax mean is investing in the very kind of two big things. What are they? No. 1, policy for low- and middle-income fam- equipment that makes workers more we were determined from the very be- ilies and individuals and make it per- productive and allows them to earn ginning that we would not even at- manent. If this were a bad deal for the higher wages. tempt to bring a bill to the floor unless middle class, presumably all the Demo- A simple example is, you go to a con- it lowered the tax burden on the fami- cratic Senators would vote no, but struction site and there are two guys lies we represent—individuals, fami- they did not. They voted yes. It was working and one of them is working a lies, middle-income and lower income really quite an extraordinary com- backhoe and the other is working a families. That was No. 1. No. 2, we pliment to our work that they offered shovel. They are both digging a hole. wanted to fundamentally restructure an amendment to take what we did— They are both moving dirt. Which one the business side of our Tax Code so which is not yet permanent; we weren’t that American workers and businesses do you think is getting paid more? The able to do that; we are going to come can compete and win in a global econ- guy operating the backhoe is always back and revisit that, and I hope we omy against anybody. I have to tell making more money because he is able will make it permanent—and said: This you, we did those things, and I think to be so much more productive than is so good, we should make it perma- that is why this is going to pass to- any human can be with just his bare nent right now. So I appreciate the night. hands and a shovel. So when we make First, on the individual side, this is compliment. I appreciate the valida- it more affordable for businesses to go absolutely a direct tax cut for the vast tion of the tax cut, that this is for low- out and buy new tractors, new equip- overwhelming majority of low- and income and middle-income families, ment, new machinery, that gives them middle-income taxpayers. They will and I want to work with them to make the chance to put those more valuable simply pay less in Federal taxes. That sure it is permanent. We should be able tools into the hands of their workers. is the reality. to do that. By the way, someone also has to By the way, most high-income tax- The second way we know where the build those things. Someone has the payers will have some tax savings as truth lies in this debate is in late Janu- job at Caterpillar of making that trac- well. I don’t apologize for that. I am in ary, early February, just check your tor. Someone has the job of making favor of lowering the tax burden on ev- paycheck. Take a look. Withholding is that vehicle. Someone has the job of eryone. While not every last individual going to go down because you are going making the machinery. is going to have a tax cut, the vast ma- to owe less money to Uncle Sam, so So all of these things coming to- jority of people will. you are going to get a take-home pay gether are a very powerful driver of We do it through a variety of mecha- raise. It is as simple as that. So the economic growth—not the only one. nisms. I will not go through all of mystery will be all gone when people Not only do we lower the cost of ac- them, but a couple of the mechanisms take a look at their check and discover quiring that equipment, we also lower that I think people understand and ap- that, yes, look at that, I actually got the top rate that businesses pay. preciate are, one, we doubled the stand- the pay raise those Republican guys We have arguably the most uncom- ard deduction—what does that mean? said we were going to get. I am looking petitive Tax Code in the world—the top That means that a couple filing joint- forward to when that happens and, at rate of 35 percent. What we do in our ly, as most married couples do, the that point, I think this debate will bill is we lower that rate to 21 per- first $24,000 of income they earn doesn’t shift to other topics. That is my guess. cent—slightly below the average of the get taxed at all—zero, nothing. They I also want to touch on the tax re- nations we compete with; pretty close don’t owe a dime to the Federal Gov- form on the business side because I to the average. This is going to free up ernment on the first $24,000 that they think that is what is likely to drive the American workers and businesses to earn. That one step alone results in a economic growth and the opportunities compete and win in all kinds of fields tax reduction for many millions of I want to see for the people I represent. where we are getting beaten today. Americans. In addition, we lower mar- It comes in a context. The context is That is going to come to an end be- ginal tax rates so that the income peo- the weakest economic recovery in the cause when we have a chance to com- ple earn above $24,000 gets taxed at history of the Republic. After a very pete on a level playing field, American lower rates under our bill than under severe recession in 2008, we never really workers and American business, we current law. We also dramatically in- had the booming recovery we have al- compete and we usually win. We are crease the child tax credit so that fam- ways had in the past. It is not a huge going to get back to winning. ilies with children get this additional mystery why. Our Democratic friends We also recognize that most busi- benefit on top of the ones I just men- had complete control of the elective nesses in America are not organized as tioned. government, and they did all of the C corps, they are organized as

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.061 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8115 passthroughs—small, subchapter S then they need workers to operate the this legislation and it is signed into companies, partnerships. So we have a equipment. Demand for workers is law, the Federal budget deficits will corollary, a reduction in tax rates for going to go up. shrink as a result of this legislation. It them. It comes as a deduction against What happens when demand for is very simple. The reason I say that is their earnings. It doesn’t apply to all workers goes up at a time when there the economic growth, the response to partnerships. Professional services is a relatively small number who are the reforms, the very profound reforms partnerships, for instance, don’t get not employed? It means upward pres- we are making are going to give us a this treatment. I would like to revisit sure on the wages of those workers. bigger economy to tax, and the extra that. I think we want to revisit that This is exactly the dynamic we have growth, the bigger economy, means because I personally would like to see been waiting for and we are going to more revenue to the Federal Govern- this treatment expanded to that cat- trigger that and we are going to watch ment. So you could reasonably ask: egory, but the vast majority of busi- this happen. I think it is going to start Well, OK, how much more growth do nesses—partnerships, S corps, C corps— relatively quickly—probably next you really need, though, in order to off- are going to experience a significant year—that we will start to see upward set the lost revenue that comes from tax cut that is going to allow them to pressure on wages. That means the peo- some of the changes you are making? compete. ple I represent are going to find that Fortunately, that is a simple exercise Another big, important feature is they have options, they have higher in arithmetic. moving away from this global taxation compensation, they are getting a pay We know what the answer is. Wheth- system we have. We have all been so raise because their employer—it is not er it is Joint Tax or the Congressional disturbed by the stories we have read because employers suddenly wake up Budget Office, the nonpartisan analysis about of American companies being ac- one day and decide: Oh, I will just be is, we will need to average between quired, sometimes by a much smaller more generous today. It is nothing of two- and four-tenths of a percent of company overseas, not because the eco- the sort. This is the only way they can extra GDP growth—extra economic nomics of the transaction make a lot of hold on to their workforce, hold on to growth—each year, on average, for the sense but because the Tax Code drives the employees they need. next 10 years. If we do that, then we them. It just makes very little sense, So it is very likely we are going to will have a smaller deficit as a result from a tax point of view, to have a see an increasing share of the total of this legislation, not a larger one. multinational company headquartered economic output in the hands of the So, for me, what this bill comes down in the United States. workers who produce it, and I think to is a simple question: Do you believe So we have been driving these trans- that is a terrific development. in America? Do you believe in the ca- actions that are terrible. They usually A couple of other points I want to pacity of the American people to re- cost us jobs. They cost us growth. This touch on briefly. One is that this legis- store the vibrant growth we used to comes to an end with this reform. We lation also effectively repeals the indi- take for granted, decade after decade of are not going to have this system vidual mandate of ObamaCare. Tech- annual growth of over 3 percent that where we punish business for bringing nically, what we do is we zero out the caused people’s wages to rise and the money back home to the United penalty. The penalty for noncompli- standard of living to grow? States. This punishment ends, and it is ance goes to zero, and so that is equiv- We have had this period that has going to encourage a huge inflow of alent to repeal. been stagnant, and some of our friends capital, of accumulated profits back First of all, this is a great strike for think, Well, that is what America is into the United States, because no freedom, in my view. It is appalling to now. Just get used to it. Accept it. longer will companies be facing a pen- think that the Federal Government has That is the new normal—barely 2 per- alty tax unique in the world. That is the right to force an American to buy cent growth, if you are lucky. I think over. It is a very constructive develop- a product against his or her will—a ter- that is nonsense, and it is not true. ment. rible infringement on the freedom of I still believe in America. I still be- What does it mean when you take Americans. lieve in American workers. I still be- one of the world’s worst business tax Our Democratic colleagues have de- lieve in our system. I still believe we codes and you turn it into arguably one scribed this repeal as a stake through are capable of restoring the kind of of the best? It means more investment. the heart of ObamaCare. Think about growth that has always been our birth- It means more people all around the what a damning indictment that is right. world are going to want to invest in about ObamaCare. It is a stake through I think this legislation takes a huge America. It means more Americans are the heart. If the only way ObamaCare step in that direction. It is a direct, going to want to invest in starting a can survive is if people are forced to immediate tax cut and, therefore, a new business or expanding an existing buy the product against their wishes, pay raise for the hard-working people I business. It means more business will what kind of product could that be? represent, and it is a series of reforms be able to afford the tools and the What kind of business model depends that is going to encourage economic equipment and the vehicles I referred on forcing people to buy your product growth that will result in higher wages to earlier. That is the source of eco- because they will not buy it if it is vol- and a better standard of living as well. nomic growth. untary? I am thrilled with the opportunity we Some of our colleagues on the other So not only is it a significant strike have tonight, and I urge all of my col- side don’t seem to acknowledge that for freedom, it is also tax relief for low- leagues to support this legislation. this is a reality, but there is no great income folks. This ObamaCare penalty I yield the floor. mystery here. When you lower the cost in Pennsylvania, in my State—and I The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- of something, you get more of it, and think my State is typical—83 percent ator from Ohio. when we lower the cost we impose on of the people who get hit with this tax Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, I rise in businesses becoming more productive, penalty are in a household that earns opposition to this special interest, tax we will have more productivity. less than $50,000 a year. So this is more breaks for the rich, trickle-down eco- All of this comes at a very inter- direct relief for low- and middle-in- nomics bill that history shows doesn’t esting time in the economic cycle. come folks. work. What I am referring to is the fact that The last point I want to make—and I I want to start by thanking Senator we are arguably close to what econo- see my colleague from Ohio on the WYDEN from Oregon, the leader on our mists think of as full employment—4.1 floor. He did amazing, great work get- side—the Finance Committee has done percent, 4 percent. Very seldom does ting us to this point. He was a pleasure very good work—and Gideon Bragin in the American economy go below 4 per- to work with and enormously knowl- my office who has been one of the tax cent for extended periods. It means edgeable, and I just want to congratu- reform experts in this body. I want to that when this money gets put to late him for where we are today. thank both of them. work—when companies go out and A quick word about the deficits. Let This bill should have been an oppor- start buying this equipment—they me start with a very simple observa- tunity for all of us to work together to need workers to fill the orders, but tion. I am convinced that when we pass put money in the pockets of working

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.062 S19DEPT1 S8116 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 people. It is pretty simple. Instead of we have. They don’t get pensions like byist walked in that door and out that cutting taxes for the middle class, we have. They are making $8, $10, $12 door; drug company lobbyists from all though, Washington chose to cut taxes an hour and can’t afford insurance. We, over the country walked in that door for millionaires and corporations and as privileged elected officials, are going and out that door. pay for it by cutting Medicare and to take insurance away from 13 million They walked in that door. They kicking people off their health insur- people, and at the same time it will didn’t literally carry bags of money ance. raise insurance premiums 10 percent— out that door after they made their It ought to be pretty simple. If we not 10 percent over time, but 10 percent points and made their pitches, but they want to cut taxes—if we want to talk a year. If you are paying $500 a month carried provisions in the tax bill that about cutting taxes for the middle in insurance now, you will pay $550 the will make their employers bags of class—if we want to cut taxes for the next year, and you will pay more than money. They didn’t carry bags of middle class, then let’s pass a bill to $600 the following year. money themselves. That would be un- cut taxes for the middle class instead It didn’t have to be this way. Our couth. But they sure wrote provisions of giving the money to corporations door, as Democrats, has always been in this tax bill that provide bags of and the richest CEOs and relying on a open. Democrats represent half this money for their companies—for the to- bank shot, hoping it trickles down. Cut country. Democrats wanted a seat at bacco companies, for Wall Street, for out the middleman. That is what my the table and wanted to help write a the oil companies, for the drug compa- colleagues claim to want. That is what bill. Let me illustrate. nies. the President said to us and the coun- A number of us in the Finance Com- Over and over and over, Republicans try that he wanted, but that is not mittee in both parties, including my made clear—not that they would pass what this bill does. This isn’t a middle- colleague from Ohio, Senator PORTMAN, the Patriot Corporation Act even class tax cut—not even close. and Senator TOOMEY, Senator WYDEN, though the President had said that he According to the Tax Policy Center, and others, were invited to the White liked it, not to pass legislation like the 83 percent—you see a Monopoly man House to meet with the President to Working Families Tax Relief Act even here on this chart—83 percent of the talk about the tax reform bill. I pre- though the President had said that he benefits in this tax bill by the end of sented the President two bills I have liked it; they made clear that they are the decade go to the wealthiest 1 per- been working on. One was the Patriot benefiting one class of people—the cent in this country. Imagine, 83 per- Corporation Act, which was pretty sim- wealthiest Americans, corporate CEOs, cent of the benefits go to the richest 1 ple. It says that if corporations do the board members, and stockholders who percent of people in this country. That right thing—if they pay good wages, if see their profits rise and grow their is even worse than the Senate bill they provide good health insurance and businesses when they ship jobs over- passed—which wasn’t that great—ear- pension benefits for their employees, seas. Remember, we have said many times lier this month. It was already pretty and if they keep their production in here as we have tried to end this tax bad. Sixty-two percent of the bill’s ben- the United States of America—they get loophole that if you shut down produc- efits would have gone to the top 1 per- lower tax rates. tion in Mansfield, OH, or you shut cent of households by the end of the The other bill, called the Working down production in Hamilton or Zanes- decade. Apparently, 62 percent wasn’t Families Relief Act, is also pretty sim- ville or Chillicothe or Lima and you good enough for the Republican mem- ple. It puts money directly in the pock- move it overseas, you get a tax break. bers of the conference committee. They ets of people making $25,000, $50,000, They open a factory there and ship it thought 83 percent of the benefits—83 and $75,000 a year. The President of the back into the United States of Amer- percent of the benefits—should go to United States looked at me and said: I ica. the richest 1 percent in this country, so like the Patriot Corporation Act, and I This bill didn’t fix it. It didn’t close the bill has actually gotten worse and like the Working Families Tax Relief that loophole. It didn’t fix that. It worse and worse for middle-class fami- Act. made it worse. It greased the skids for After the hour-and-a-half meeting, lies. those companies to shut down faster in which was witnessed by a dozen Sen- How did the bill get this bad? It got Mansfield, Lima, Chillicothe, and this bad through massive, permanent ators in both parties and a number of Zanesville, OH, and move their produc- tax cuts for the wealthy, for so-called his Cabinet officials, including Sec- tion overseas. They get bigger bonuses, passthrough businesses and corpora- retary Mnuchin in the Cabinet room at they make bigger profits, and they get tions, which mostly benefit the richest the White House, I walked up to the bigger stock dividends. people in this country. It got this bad President and said: Thank you for your Republican leaders like to claim that through paltry tax cuts for some mid- interest. I handed him and his chief somehow, if you give a big corporate dle-class families that expire after a economic adviser, Gary Cohn—whom I tax increase, if you cut corporate taxes few years. am proud to say is from Cleveland— as this bill does, about 40 percent, Get this. The corporate tax cuts are copies of the bill. $4,000 would end up in the pockets of permanent. They last forever. The tax Then, something started to happen. every working man and woman in this cuts for individuals, inadequate and Then the meetings started in MITCH country; workers would get a $4,000 immodest as they are, expire after a MCCONNELL’s office. For people who raise. Of course, nobody believed them, few years. Gee, I wonder why they did don’t work here and live here and see but that is what they said: They would that. It was through a new way of cal- this, I would point out that down the get a $4,000 raise. culating inflation called Chained CPI, hall, 100 feet, is Senator MCCONNELL’s Do you know why I know that is not which will primarily hurt middle-class office. Pass the Ohio clock—that is my true? Because history shows that any- families. That doesn’t even take into State; pass the Ohio clock, and 100 feet time they get big tax cuts, anytime account the millions of Americans—my down the hall is Senator MCCONNELL’s they bring dollars from overseas, the colleague from Pennsylvania was part office. money doesn’t go into employees’ of it; in the middle of the night they The meetings started in Senator pockets. It doesn’t usually go to create put a new provision in this bill that MCCONNELL’s office. The President of jobs. It goes to give more benefits to will cost 13 million Americans their the United States said that he liked the executives. health insurance. So 13 million Ameri- the idea of the Patriot Corporation The other reason I know that is not cans will lose insurance under this bill. Act, liked the idea of the Working going to happen—that these dollars All kinds of elected officials, all Families Relief Act, but then he turned will not go to employees and not go to kinds of us in the House and Senate it over to Senator MCCONNELL. Do you investing in more jobs—is that their have insurance paid for by taxpayers, know what happened? Wall Street lob- corporate pals let the cat out of the and my colleagues are willing to take byist after Wall Street lobbyist walked bag and made clear they won’t. CEOs insurance away from 13 million people, in that door and out that door; tobacco from the largest corporations, already most of whom have jobs. They don’t lobbyist after tobacco lobbyist walked on record, state plainly that they are have jobs that pay what we make. in that door and out that door; oil com- not raising wages; they are not going They don’t have health insurance like pany lobbyist after oil company lob- to hire more workers.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.064 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8117 What are they going to do with this themselves deficit hawks when there is ileged to have, and we get good com- windfall? I know this will come as a a Democratic President, but following pensation. We get a good salary, and shock. They are going to keep it for the enforcer in chief, the Wall Street we get good benefits. But we are going themselves. Journal editorial page—they call them- to tell a bunch of people who work with Imagine, these CEOs in and out of selves deficit hawks when there is a their hands and work with their brains Senator MCCONNELL’s office—the drug Democratic President, but all of a sud- and work with their bodies and work companies, Wall Street, tobacco com- den, they say: We will grow out of the with their arms and shoulders and panies, oil companies, all the others. deficit. whose knees break down over time—we Believe it or not, the CEOs of these We know this bill will explode the are going to tell the barber in Bar- corporations are already making $8 deficit. We know what the plan is to berton, we are going to tell the truck- million, $10 million, $12 million—some deal with the deficit. Do you know driver in Evendale, we are going to tell are making $20 million a year. That is what they will do? They will steal the the construction worker in Conneaut, not enough for them. Why would that money Americans have paid into So- we are going to tell the waitress in possibly be enough? If you are making cial Security and Medicare. How do we Warren, we are going to tell the nurse only $20 million a year, you have to do know that? I am not just saying it. As in Newark that they are going to have something to juice it a little bit, so a progressive Democrat in this body, I to work until they are 70, sorry. Is that they will keep that money for them- am not just saying: Of course they are what we are going to do? selves. They will do bigger bonuses, going to cut Social Security and Medi- Follow this simply. This tax cut they will do stock buybacks, and they care. I think that, but do you know causes a huge budget deficit to give will do dividends. why I am sure of it? I am always pretty money to the wealthiest people in the End this charade. I have heard all sure of it because that is what they do. country and creates a huge hole in the this happy talk on the floor about how But I am sure of it because they said budget. Who is going to fill the hole in this is going to make Americans more that. They made their plans crystal the budget? Not the lobbyists walking competitive and how it will trickle clear. Speaker RYAN said that he wants in and out of Senator MCCONNELL’s of- down to the middle class. If you want to turn next year to what he calls enti- fice 100 feet down the hall. They are to do a middle-class tax cut, do a mid- tlement reform. not going to pay for it; they are not dle-class tax cut. Don’t bank-shot it. There are retirement and health ben- going to have to pay for it. It is going Don’t take out the middleman. Don’t efits that people earn over a lifetime of to be the nurse in Newark who has to give it to corporations and say: Please, work—social insurance. You pay into work until she is 70; it is going to be oh please, oh please, give us a middle- Medicare over the course of your life. the waitress in Warren who has to class tax break. It never works that When you need Medicare, when you are work until she is 70; it is going to be way. 65, you get this insurance. You pay into the carpenter or construction worker Republican leaders had a chance to Social Security your entire life. You in Conneaut; it is going to be the bar- work across the aisle. I heard Senator either get survivors benefits for your ber in Barberton and the truckdriver in TOOMEY say that Democrats didn’t children or you get disability or you Evendale. want to be involved. I heard Senator get retirement when you reach the age If we pass this bill, 83 percent of the CORNYN say that Democrats didn’t of 66, more or less. You pay into unem- benefits go to the top 1 percent, and want to be involved. I like those two ployment insurance. If you need it— this 83 percent, a lot of which blows a gentlemen. I have worked particularly God willing, you don’t, but if you need hole in the budget deficit, is going to with Senator CORNYN on a number of it, you get help. That is what social in- be paid for by working families. So cut things. We are working on a couple of surance is. You pay for it, and you get out all the crap about this being some- issues right now. They know that is help from society. It is societywide so- thing for working families. It is not. not true. They sat in that White House cial insurance. But the Ways and I will say this for Republicans in meeting. They heard the President of Means chairman, KEVIN BRADY, said Congress: They are making it pretty the United States say to me and to that the next stop for Republicans is to easy for the American people to see Senator CASEY and to Senator MCCAS- tackle entitlements. whose side they are on. You are either KILL and to Senator STABENOW and to Here is what we know. This bill is on the side of everyday working Ameri- Senator WYDEN and to a couple oth- going to cause huge deficits. We know ers—they heard us offer reasonable pro- that. They have acknowledged it, and cans, who are working more hours than posals. The President was agreeable. 2, 3, 4 years from now, Republican ever before and getting too little pay Many of them were part of his cam- Members will come to us—after the for the hours they are working—they paign. Candidate Trump was saying a lobbyists have been down the hall in are either working for them or they are working for the people in Senator lot of these things during the cam- Senator MCCONNELL’s office, they will paign. But then, lo and behold, they come back and say to us: We have this MCCONNELL’s office down the hall. said: Democrats don’t want to be a part huge budget deficit. We are going to I want my colleagues to just pick of this. Well, not exactly. have to raise the eligibility age to through this. I want my colleagues to We had a bill to expand the child tax maybe to 70. Some of them have talked think about this picture, this stream of credit. We had a plan to reward compa- about that. We are going to have to lobbyists in and out of Senator MCCON- nies that create jobs here. All that got privatize Medicare. They will say: We NELL’s office, this stream of lobbyists jettisoned down the hall in Senator have to make these programs stronger from America’s largest, richest cor- MCCONNELL’s office. Down this hall, and sustainable. Nobody thinks they porations—the drug companies, the to- down this hall in Senator MCCONNELL’s want to make them stronger. They bacco companies, the insurance compa- office, 100 feet away, is where these want to cut them. That is how you save nies, the companies that tend to run deals were cut—these deals with the money, even though you don’t in the this government. I want you to think drug companies and oil companies and end. about that. tobacco companies and Wall Street lob- Here is what is aggravating about Are you on the side of the workers byists going in and out of his office. I this. Think about it. All of us—a num- who are doing the heavy work and didn’t see all of them come out, but I ber of people here in this body are past can’t work until they are 70 or are you am guessing they had really big smiles what society has designated as retire- on the side of CEOs and politicians who on their faces. ment age, 65. A number of Members of do the bidding of these CEOs? It is a These massive cuts for corporations this Congress, particularly in the Sen- pretty clear case. It is a picture that is come at a heavy price for the middle ate, are over 65. pretty obvious. Americans deserve bet- class. When 1 percent gets richer and I work in my garden. I work outside. ter. We can do better for them by start- richer and richer, we know the middle I do things. But I am not working in a ing from scratch with one goal in mind: class shrinks. These massive cuts come diner, I am not working construction, If we want a middle-class tax cut, I say at a heavy price. and I don’t use my arms and shoulders to the Senator from Utah, don’t talk This bill will explode the deficit. We and brain and legs to do my work. We about a middle-class tax cut, don’t do know that. Even my colleagues call work here. We work in jobs we are priv- trickle-down economics. If you want a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.065 S19DEPT1 S8118 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 middle-class tax cut, then give a mid- portunities to get ahead because not The second thing it did is, it got wages dle-class tax cut. Give a tax cut to the only are wages flat but expenses are up. Wages actually increased during middle class. It is pretty simple. up. That is called the middle-class that period after that tax reform. I yield the floor. squeeze. It is very real, and it is hap- We need to do it again. Our economy The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- pening. needs a shot in the arm again, not just ator from Ohio. I would ask folks, when they are to improve the economy but to im- Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. President, I want thinking about what you are hearing prove take-home pay. That is what this to talk tonight about a once-in-a-gen- tonight on the floor, remember, one tax reform proposal is designed to do. eration opportunity we have in this side is supporting the status quo. The We have heard, on the other side of Senate tonight to help middle-class status quo is not working. It isn’t the aisle, how this has moved too families, to help grow our economy. I working for people in America and peo- quickly, somehow there hasn’t been am going to talk about the facts. I am ple in my State of Ohio who tell me: enough thought put into this. I think it not going to be making stuff up. I am Rob, I am working hard. I am playing is long overdue. I think we should have going to talk about the real middle- by the rules. I am not getting ahead. done this years ago. I also know, from class tax cuts that are in this legisla- The statistics bear that out. Yes, being involved in these issues over the tion. I am going to show you charts some people are getting ahead, but it is past couple of decades on the House that indicate not just what kind of tax not the guy or the woman working on Ways and Means Committee and now in relief is going to be there for you and the shop floor in a factory in Cleve- the Senate Finance Committee, there your family but who is going to pay, land, OH, or Columbus, Toledo, Day- has been a lot of thought put into this where the burden is. ton, or Cincinnati because their wages issue. Just since I was elected to the Despite what you are hearing on the have been pretty darn flat. Again, their Senate in 2010, there have been 70 hear- floor tonight from some on the other expenses are up, especially healthcare, ings on tax reform. side of the aisle, the burden of taxation which is the largest single one of those Chairman HATCH is in the Chamber actually increased in this tax bill for expenses. They want some help. tonight. He will tell you, 2 years ago the wealthiest Americans. In terms of This legislation gives them that help we had five bipartisan working groups defending the status quo, which is a in two ways: One, real middle-class tax covering every part of the Tax Code. situation now where jobs and invest- cuts. We will talk about that in a sec- The bipartisan working group that I ment are going overseas, I think it is ond. Second, letting them be competi- cochaired with the Democratic leader, an outrage that this body has sat and tive instead of competing with one CHUCK SCHUMER, focused on the inter- watched company after company go hand tied behind their backs because national side. Do you know what we overseas because of our Tax Code. To they are competing in a global econ- decided? We decided we have to have a say we shouldn’t fix it, I don’t get that. omy, and they know that. lower business rate because it has to be If we don’t lower the rate on businesses Give them a chance. Give them a tax competitive; otherwise, we will con- and workers who are competing every code that actually is up-to-date and tinue to lose jobs in investment over- day when you have the highest rate in competitive and lets them have the op- seas, and we decided we have to have the industrialized world and you have portunity to build a better life, not an international system that is com- an international system that rewards just for themselves but for their kids petitive and bring back some of that revenues being kept overseas—$2.5 tril- and their grandkids because that is $2.5 trillion to $3 trillion that is stuck lion to $3 trillion of earnings overseas what they really care about. overseas back to this country for more instead of bringing that back—that Again, I am happy to talk about that jobs and investment. Guess what. It status quo is not acceptable. opportunity we have tonight, and it is was bipartisan then, and it is in the tax We can engage in all kinds of rhet- a rare opportunity because we have not bill now. oric here tonight, but if we stick to the reformed this Tax Code in any substan- Those are the ideas that are in this facts, I think we might be able to see tial way in 31 years. Think about that. tax bill before us. They make sense. In why this legislation is not only going I celebrated my 62nd birthday today. fact, for years, there has been a bipar- to pass tonight but why so many Amer- That means we have not reformed the tisan agreement that our Tax Code is icans who are struggling because they Tax Code in 31 years. That is half of my broken, and it is Congress’s responsi- are living paycheck to paycheck are life. By the way, 31 years ago, Ronald bility to fix it. going to be happy with this legislation. Reagan was President. Pete Rose was I would like to commend tonight The proof is in the paycheck. People still playing for the Cincinnati Reds. Speaker RYAN; Leader MCCONNELL; Fi- say the proof is in the pudding. The ‘‘Top Gun’’ was at all the box offices. It nance Chairman ORRIN HATCH, who is proof is in the paycheck when people was a big hit. That is how long ago on the floor; Ways and Means Com- see their withholding changing—less that was. During that time, I will tell mittee Chairman KEVIN BRADY, who money being taken out of their pay- you that every other country we com- has been a strong and fair negotiating checks for taxes—when they see they pete with, all of them, have reformed partner with the Senate. I also want to have a little more take-home pay and their Tax Code, except us. We have sat thank my colleagues who have spent so the family’s budget is a little back and had this debate. We have had many hours on this effort: Senator healthier, when they see the economy this gridlock, partisan gridlock, in TOOMEY, whom you heard a little while begin to take off, and when they see Washington because we can’t get our ago talking about the economic bene- the end of this exodus of U.S. compa- act together. fits, as he does so well, Senators SCOTT, nies going overseas. In the last 13 By the way, if you are a worker try- THUNE, CORNYN, ENZI, and MURKOWSKI. years, 4,700 American companies have ing to get ahead, you can’t do it on They were all on the conference com- left our shores and gone overseas— your own because the Tax Code has you mittee, but many others too. Senators being bought by foreign companies— competing with that one hand tied be- COLLINS, JOHNSON, RUBIO, CORKER, who that would not have gone if this Tax hind your back. Only this place, Wash- all helped us get to this point and im- Code we are promoting tonight had ington, Congress, a President, can pro- prove the legislation. been in place. That is based on an pose, develop, and sign legislation that The bill that passed the House earlier Ernst & Young study. Check it out. It can help address this problem. This is today, and we are going to vote on to- is a big accounting firm. So 4,700, and our job. I sure hope we will do it. night, is the result of years and years when they leave our shores, guess In 1986, when that tax reform was of research and debate. It makes good what, they take their jobs and invest- passed 31 years ago, it led to two on the promise we have made to create ments with them. things: one, more economic growth. In a tax code that provides tax relief to You might wonder why wages have the 1980s and 1990s, we did have eco- hard-working families but also posi- been flat in this country for the past nomic growth—3, 3.5 percent, even 4.5 tions America for leadership in the 21st couple of decades. It is because people percent growth. Think about that. We century global economy. who are supporting the status quo and are now living, over the last 10 years, While we have seen some improve- don’t want to change this Tax Code are with growth, on average, at about 1.5 ments in the economy recently, we leaving workers in America with no op- to 2 percent. That is a big difference. have seen better economic growth

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:05 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.067 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8119 numbers. Again, a lot of people I rep- between $20,000 and $30,000 a year. That investment and because there will be resent are not seeing the benefit of is the biggest, a 16.3-percent cut. more productivity, which is the thing that. That is why we have to pass this It also shows that the smallest per- that is really lacking in our economy bill. centage cut is among those making $1 right now. Our productivity is weak. For years, colleagues on both sides of million or more, a 5.9-percent cut. All of the economists agree on this the aisle have called for middle-class Again, there is tax relief across the whether they are right, left, or center. tax cuts to help ease the burden. This board here, but the bigger benefit is You have to do something to boost legislation will finally actually deliver among folks at the lower end of the that productivity because that is going that middle-class tax relief. We have economic scale. In fact, when you look to result in higher wages, and more the opportunity to provide it tonight. at who pays the income tax, you will competition for workers is going to re- Starting January 1—less than 2 weeks see that those at the top are going to sult in higher wages. That is going to from tonight—that tax relief goes into pay a slightly bigger share of the tax happen because this Tax Code is fo- effect. People are going to see how this burden under this bill. Today, those cused on increasing wages through tax reform helps them as soon as the making between $20,000 and $50,000 a more investment. IRS can adjust withholding in pay- year pay 4.37 percent of the income We have talked about how companies checks, which I would hope would hap- taxes. Under this bill, they are going to are going overseas now and how the pen before the end of February. Again, pay a little less, 4.1 percent of the in- status quo is not working. It is crazy the proof is in the pudding. The proof is come taxes. that Congress allows that to happen, in the paycheck. People are going to Those who make over $100,000 will go and fixing it is long overdue. We have see it. from paying 78.7 percent of the tax bur- talked about the $2.5 trillion, $3 tril- People can go online now and use a den to 79.1 percent of the tax burden. If lion that is stuck overseas right now. tax calculator to see how it will affect you make over $100,000 a year, you are We want to bring that home. We want them and their families. This is going paying 78.7 percent of the tax burden to add more jobs and investment in to happen, and it is going happen soon today, and that is going to go up. Your this country. if we pass this legislation tonight. share of the burden is going to go up. We did a study in the Permanent Again, the most immediate benefit is The Tax Code is pretty progressive Subcommittee on Investigations—a bi- for working families and for the middle right now, and it gets even more pro- partisan effort. We studied these com- class. This bill doubles the child tax gressive under this tax legislation. panies that go overseas through what credit. It also increases the These are not my numbers. These are is called inversions or by being pur- refundability of the child tax credit. the numbers from the Joint Committee chased by a foreign company. What For those families with kids, you have on Taxation, which is the nonpartisan happens? Do they just move their head- the opportunity now to save a little group that scores these things. Check quarters overseas? No. We found out more money to deal with the expenses out the numbers yourselves. Go on the they also move jobs and investment. of raising a child. It doubles the stand- Joint Committee on Taxation’s This is real. It is happening now. We ard deduction from $12,000 per family website, jct.gov, and check it out. can fix it. That is what this bill is in- to about $24,000 per family. This, in ef- When you don’t consider not choos- tended to do, and I believe you are fect, creates a $24,000 zero income tax ing to buy healthcare insurance to be a going to see not just middle-class tax bracket for families and simplifies the tax increase, which is how the Joint relief to help with the take-home pay Tax Code. Probably 90 to 95 percent of Committee on Taxation scores ending and the family budget, but you are Americans are going to take that dou- the individual mandate, every income going to see this increase, finally, not bling of the standard deduction, I am group of taxpayers gets a tax cut under just in economic growth but in wages. told, and that will simplify their re- this plan every year, for the next 8 That also makes the family budget a turns but also give them tax relief years, during the time this tax cut is in whole lot more healthy. right away. It lowers tax rates for fam- place. Yes, it does expire, as did the tax I see Senator CASSIDY has just come ilies across the board, with the largest cuts in 2001 and 2003. Congress took to the floor. Let me address an issue proportional benefit going to those at those up, and for 95 percent of Ameri- that has been misrepresented on the the lower end of the income ladder, cans, we extended that tax relief. I floor this afternoon. those who need it the most. hope we will do that again—I expect we I heard one of my colleagues say this In fact, the combination of these tax will—but during these next 8 years, bill gets rid of the historic tax credit. cuts for lower income Americans this is real tax relief, and it is needed. It does not, thanks to the efforts of means that at least 3 million Ameri- I reject the premise that choosing some of us who strongly support it, in- cans who have income tax liability now not to buy healthcare insurance under cluding Senator CASSIDY. We actually are going to pay nothing in taxes. They the Affordable Care Act’s individual retain the current 20-percent credit in will be off the tax rolls altogether. mandate is somehow a tax hike, and I the Senate-passed bill and in the final I have a letter from the Joint Com- think most Americans do too. Take a legislation. By the way, this historic mittee on Taxation that affirms that. look at the Rules Committee’s website tax credit has been very helpful. It has At our meeting last week of the con- at rules.house.gov, and you will see been instrumental in generating more ference, you can see where the Joint how a typical family of four at the me- private funds to restore historic build- Committee affirmed that again. Over 3 dian income level will save more than ings across my State of Ohio, including million are going to pay no income $2,000 a year on its taxes as a result of in my hometown of Cincinnati, as well taxes at all who pay income tax now. this plan. The median-income family in as in Cleveland, Columbus, and else- For those who say there is no benefit Ohio—and in your State wherever you where. there, talk to those 3 million people. are—is going to be saving more than We also preserve the important tax They feel the benefit. In fact, those $2,000 a year on its taxes. credit for urban redevelopment people are going to be off the tax rolls Some have told me, as I walk down through the new markets tax credit altogether because of the tax relief we the halls here, that is not much money. and the private activity bonds, which are passing tonight. Do you know what? For families who are still in this legislation just as they As this chart shows, every income are living paycheck to paycheck, that are in current law. In Ohio, again, group will receive a tax cut. This one is is a lot of money, and it does help. It these tax incentives have leveraged a for the year 2019, so it is a year after can be used to pay for healthcare, to lot more private sector dollars, spurred the tax cuts are put in place, which buy gas, to buy groceries, to maybe add economic growth, job creation, afford- starts in just a couple of weeks. We a little more to one’s retirement. able housing, and I think have ulti- have heard a lot from opponents that Of course, beyond the middle-class mately increased the tax revenue be- the top end, those making $1 million or tax cuts that are in this legislation, cause, as people are working and as more, as we just heard a little while families and workers are going to ben- you get these buildings up and going, ago, get all the benefits. It is simply efit from more jobs and higher wages, economic growth is generated, and so not true. This shows that the biggest as we talked about earlier. This is is tax revenue. They pay for them- percentage cut is among folks making going to be because there will be new selves, in my view. I have shared some

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.068 S19DEPT1 S8120 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 of those success stories in my home though; it is about the investment we don’t mind good arguments. I don’t State throughout this process, and, are making in American families, mind people having different points of again, we have successfully maintained American workers, and American busi- view. That is what makes this place a those provisions in our final bill. nesses. We are giving families the free- great place. That is what helps the The result is, we have a good tax re- dom to spend more of their own money United States of America to be a great form bill that achieves the things that how they see fit, we are putting faith country and a great government, but Republicans and Democrats alike have in American entrepreneurs and work- we don’t even listen to each other any- long supported—tax cuts for the middle ers to compete and win in the global more. class and a more competitive Tax Code market, and we are creating a fairer Where is this bipartisanship that this for American workers and companies. tax system that levels the playing field country really, drastically needs? My colleagues on the other side of and creates jobs and investment here We happen to be in the majority the aisle tonight have talked about in America rather than overseas. right now. It seems to me that a decent this being bad for the deficit. I just Our constituents deserve this; they minority would want to find ways to have to tell them I respectfully dis- deserve better than the status quo. work with the, hopefully, decent ma- agree. They deserve more than just hollow jority. I think we can be very decent on The most important thing we can do promises; they deserve a brighter fu- our side, and I believe my colleagues on right now to get the deficit down is to ture. I believe the Tax Cuts and Jobs the other side can be very decent. Let’s get this growth back because economic Act will reopen our economy as the get rid of the politics, and let’s do what growth results in more revenue. One is best for America. Let’s get this point in economic growth alone puts best place in the world to do business country out of the mess it is in. The $2.7 trillion more in revenue into the and create that brighter future for all distinguished Senator from Ohio has coffers of the Federal Government. Americans. Thank you. shown us some ways here. That is based on the numbers from the I yield the floor. Our tax policy is for the birds. We nonpartisan Congressional Budget Of- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. know what we need to do, but every fice. Think about that—$2.7 trillion ROUNDS). The Senator from Utah. time you raise a solution, you have more with just one point of economic Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I, person- somebody saying: Well, that is not the growth. ally, congratulate the distinguished The budget score we were forced to answer. Then we have the conflicts be- Senator from Ohio. He is one of the use for this legislation estimates a tween the two Houses. That is good be- most intelligent people in this body. He very conservative level of economic cause that is what helps us to refine has had all kinds of experience outside growth—at a weak 1.9 percent over the some of this legislation. next 10 years. That was the last 10 of the Senate. He is a person whom ev- All I can say is, I just wish all of us years. We don’t want to repeat that. erybody should listen to. He makes a would put the country first, put poli- We don’t have to repeat that. The aver- lot of sense. He is one of the most val- tics second, be politically astute but at age economic growth over the past 30 ued members of a very strong com- least be open to rational reasoning, years has been more than 2.5 percent, mittee, with all kinds of valued mem- whether it comes from the other side and over the last two quarters, we have bers on it, but he is one of those valued or our side. I am just amazed at how we had economic growth of 3.1 percent and members on the Senate Finance Com- can sit and belabor these things day in 3.3 percent. The Federal Reserve’s and mittee, and I have nothing but respect and day out and never really get to- private forecasts are both above the for him. gether. We are hurting the country be- CBO’s growth projections for next year, Everything he has said here this cause we are unwilling to get together. as an example, to show you why I think evening is true. It is mind-boggling to We are hurting the Congress of the the CBO’s numbers are way too small, me that we even have arguments from United States because we are unwilling too weak. the other side. We are talking about to get together. That 1.9-percent growth is not only pulling this country out of the mess it I could go on and on as to our unwill- wrong, but I believe it is unacceptable. is in, and it is going to take this. ingness to get together. I think it is It cannot be the new normal. With the I just want to compliment the distin- time for us to wake up and start say- strength of our economy right now, guished Senator from Ohio. He is a ter- ing: Look, let’s find common ground. paired with the pro-growth changes in rific human being, with a tremendous Let’s find ways of getting together in- this tax reform plan, I believe eco- ability, who has had a lot of experience stead of constantly fighting each other nomic growth will surpass this rel- outside of the U.S. Senate, and who has on every stinking issue that comes up. atively low projection that we are been successful everywhere he has There are reasons for differences in forced to use by increasing economic gone. He is one of the most distin- politics and reasons for differences in growth at just 0.4 percent more than guished members of the Senate Fi- tax policy, but we ought to be able to this 1.9 percent, this weak projection. nance Committee. He is not talking po- at least discuss these differences with- In growing the economy at about 2.3 litically; he is talking factually. I just out there being total partisanship, percent rather than at 1.9 percent, on wish everybody in this body were on which is what we are, unfortunately, average, there is sufficient revenue to the floor to listen to him. I have tre- suffering from. I believe we can turn pay for all of the tax relief in this plan mendous respect for him. That is one this mess around. If we do, it will be a plus to begin to pay down the debt. reason I am getting up here right now. banner for everybody to march behind, That is what I believe will happen if We can turn this mess around, but if and it seems to me it will be an exam- you do the right kind of tax reform. It we don’t do it soon, it may be impos- ple for the whole world. I would like to has to be the right kind. It has to be sible to turn it around. We have been see us do it. pro-growth. I believe what we have spending this government into bank- I know there are people on the other done in this bill is exactly that. There ruptcy. That is where we are. We keep side who cannot stand the President. is no question that we are going to making excuses so we can go back and Yes, he won an election they didn’t have more economic growth and more beat our breasts and claim we are think he should have won, but he did investment in America. The current doing so much for the people when we win. He has thrown his hands open to Tax Code is so broken that it is pretty are just spending them right into bank- the other side and, I believe, would do easy to do that, honestly—to create a ruptcy. It is making it more difficult more. It was only 7 or 8 years ago when more efficient and effective and pro- for the committees to do their work. I he was much more moderate than he is ductive Tax Code. I believe a more con- just wish we could get both sides to- now. I think all they need to do is to fident America, with rising wages and gether once in a while instead of hav- reach out and grab his hands and say: stronger economic growth, by the way, ing all of this inner conflict on every- Look, we will find some common is much more likely to address the thing that comes up. ground here in the best interests of our very real fiscal challenges we face as a It is almost like, if a Republican says country and in the best interests of ev- country. something, it has to be contradicted, erybody. This tax reform bill is not just about and I might add, if a Democrat says It is not bad to fight things out. I dollar amounts and bottom lines, something, he has to be contradicted. I don’t have any problem with that.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.069 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8121 That is part of this body, part of what I appreciate my colleagues on both This kind of result, where we have a we do. But we actually have to come to sides of the aisle. I appreciate that we corporate tax break which increases some conclusions that will push the have differences. I appreciate that debt and someone else has to pay for it country forward, and we are not doing sometimes those differences put us into down the road, is a result that only a that, except on a limited basis that pitched battles. That is not all bad, ei- swamp dweller could support, but un- really doesn’t amount to all that ther. But it is bad if we don’t work fortunately that is where we are today. much. things out and if we don’t look for the How about for children? There has We are coming to the end of a very good on the other side in both ways. been a lot of discussion about the child difficult year. The Democrats thought I yield the floor. tax credit. Thankfully, there was de- they were going to win the Presidency, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- bate about that. We don’t talk about and they didn’t. They especially feel ator from Pennsylvania. children in this body nearly enough or badly about losing to somebody like Mr. CASEY. Mr. President, I wish to that tax credit, but, unfortunately, Donald Trump, who, I think, has held commend the distinguished chairman even the proposals by some on the Re- out his hands and his arms to them and of the Finance Committee for his hopes publican side weren’t adequate enough. would do so if they would just embrace for more bipartisanship and his con- Even the ones rejected may not have a little bit more of what he is trying to cern about the way the Senate is work- been enough. Under this legislation do. I would like to see us do this. I being today. I appreciate that. I think we parents of 10 million children in the lieve he would throw his arms out to all hope that in the new year there will lowest income working families will ei- whomever in this body would work be more bipartisanship. I think there ther receive no improvement in the with him, and by working with him, we are some areas where we can work to- child tax credit or a token increase of may be able to get some of our ideas on gether. $1 to $75. The last minute changes to both sides actually put into law that On this issue, though, I think we the bill, which got a lot of publicity in may help this country. have some basic disagreements, and we the last couple of days—those last- I really particularly enjoyed and ap- are still debating those and articu- minute changes to the bill—will do preciated the comments from the dis- lating our differences before we cast a nothing additional for these families. tinguished Senator from Ohio. I think vote tonight. I have said for a number Another 14 million children in low- he is one of the most distinguished peo- of weeks now—not months but cer- and middle-income working families ple in this body. Earlier, I heard the tainly weeks—when describing the bill would get something by way of the distinguished Senator from Pennsyl- that is before us, the prior iteration of child tax credit but less than the full vania. He is a brilliant guy who works the bill in the Finance Committee and $1,000 per child increase that a family his butt off to try to get us into good the version in the House, that I making $400,000 a year would receive. places. We ought to listen more to thought that each one of them had a For a fraction of the hundreds of bil- these folks. There are folks on the few things in common, in my judg- lions of dollars going to the very other side who are brilliant, too, who, ment. This is my sense of the overall wealthy and profitable corporations, I think, make a real difference. bill. we could have, in this bill, made sure I particularly enjoy my counterpart First of all, I think every one of that every low-income parent gets the on the Senate Finance Committee, these bills has been a giveaway to the full $2,000 per child tax credit, but be- Senator WYDEN from Oregon. We are rich or the superrich and a giveaway to cause of the way the bill is written, it different. We have different philoso- profitable corporations. I think it is ex- doesn’t allow that to happen for every phies, but I have never seen a day when cessive. We have a difference of opinion low-income parent. I think that would he wasn’t willing to sit down and work on that. have been a worthy goal of the legisla- out our problems, and that to me is This is a tax bill, and yet it will have tion, but that is not where we are. To pretty important. a substantially adverse impact on say that is unfair is a vast overstate- Our leaders are good people. I have health care because of one basic provi- ment. The families who need it the watched CHUCK SCHUMER for all the sion that was added in the last couple most aren’t getting the full benefit of years he has been in the Senate and be- of weeks. That provision alone will the child tax credit increase, but those fore, and he is a better leader than cause healthcare premiums to increase who are wealthy get an extra $2,000 of what we are getting here lately. I have by an additional 10 percent a year, and child tax credit. watched MITCH MCCONNELL. Mitch is it will cause 13 million people to lose I mentioned the Joint Committee on one of the shrewdest people I have seen their healthcare, according to the Con- Taxation. Let me give you another way in this body since I have been a Mem- gressional Budget Office, including, by to look at the bill according to the ber, and he is open. I would like to see one estimate, 5 million fewer Ameri- Joint Committee on Taxation. The JCT our leaders get together a little bit cans benefitting from Medicaid. At a estimates that in 2019 alone, the second more. I would like to see a little less time when we should invest substan- year the bill is in effect, were it to fighting and a little more constructive tially in the middle class and invest in pass, more than $36 billion in tax cuts work together. I don’t expect miracles our children, roads, bridges, schools, will go to households worth more than because I have been here only 41 years, scientific research, skills training, and $1 million. That is in the document en- but I do expect that we can do much broadband in rural communities—we titled JCX–68–17 of the Joint Com- better than what we are doing, and it is can make the list even longer—this tax mittee on Taxation. It is a $36 billion going to take both sides getting to- bill prevents that from happening in a cut for the wealthiest Americans, while gether to do it. significant way because of the give- over 57 million middle-class house- We happen to be in the majority aways that I talked about to profitable holds—my definition for those making right now, and the Democrats should corporations and the superrich. under $100,000—will see a tax increase give us an edge. We should give them This bill will literally pay for a per- or tax cut of less than $9 a month in the edge when they are in the major- manent corporate tax cut on the backs 2019. So for 57 million middle-class ity. I think that I, for one, have done of middle-class families in the next households, they will see a tax increase that. decade. Congress’s official scorekeeper, or a tax cut of less than $9 a month in I hope we can put aside our dif- the nonpartisan Joint Committee on 2019. ferences and start working together in Taxation, tells us that in the next dec- Instead of lining the pockets of the the best interest of the country. I be- ade, meaning the second 10 years that rich with $36 billion in tax cuts in 2019, lieve in this country. It is the greatest this bill is in effect, the bill uses hun- that money could have been used to country in the world. People all over dreds of billions in tax increases on connect Americans to the internet, es- the world are praying that the United working families to pay for a perma- pecially Americans who live in rural States will get it together. They know nent corporate rate cut. I will say that areas. Let me be precise: 39 percent of that we can lead. They know that we again. In the next decade, taxes go up the people living in rural America have leadership in the Congress of the for you across America, working fami- don’t have high-speed internet. United States. We can get it together if lies, to pay for a 14-percentage-point Mr. WYDEN. Will my colleague we will. cut for profitable corporations. yield?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.071 S19DEPT1 S8122 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 Mr. CASEY. Yes. has almost doubled. So my point is, programs that working men and Mr. WYDEN. My colleague is making they have done pretty well since 1980, women of my home State of Pennsyl- a very important point, and I think it so why do a big share of them—mean- vania and the country have paid into would be great if he would repeat those ing the million-dollar-and-up crowd— to ensure that they have some retire- figures, because all night we have had why should they get $36 billion in this ment savings and a safety net for when Republican Senators come to this floor tax bill? It doesn’t make a lot of sense. tragedies and unforeseen events occur. and say: Hey, middle class, just wait So that is one way to look at it. Some people refer to Social Security until February. Wait until February, What we could invest these dollars in— and Medicare as earned benefits be- and your paychecks are going to be a bigger tax cut for the middle, a big- cause they are. They have earned those bulging. ger tax cut for those struggling to get benefits for Social Security and Medi- From what my friend from Pennsyl- to the middle, working families trying care. vania has just said, using this new data to get to the middle, or other prior- How about outsourcing? The Repub- that we just got from the Joint Com- ities, such as infrastructure. I men- lican tax bill gives U.S. companies that mittee on Taxation, what we have tioned just one idea on rural offshore jobs a large tax cut on old picked up—and my friend from Penn- broadband. I think rural America profits that is unavailable to compa- sylvania has clearly done his home- should get some help being connected nies that kept jobs and production in work—is that something like 60 million to the internet. That is one way we the United States. This means that a taxpayers with an annual income of could focus on priorities. company that outsourced to Mexico to $200,000 or less will get practically Let me give another example—the es- take advantage of cheap labor will pay nothing—maybe $100 a year in tax re- tate tax. As many people know, once less taxes on accumulated profits than lief or a tax increase. So I think what fully implemented, this bill doubles the a domestic company that kept jobs in my colleague is talking about—I would estate tax—it exempts the first $22 mil- the United States. In fact, once the bill like him to walk me through the num- lion of inheritance from the tax, which is enacted, some profits from an over- bers he used—is that it directly con- is $11 million per individual. The cost seas factory may never be taxed in the tradicts what we have been hearing of doing that will be roughly $9 billion United States, while a company that last night, where one Republican Sen- a year. In the earlier versions of the keeps those jobs here could be taxed at ator after another was saying: It is just House and Senate bills, that number the U.S. corporate tax rate. This dis- going to be good times come February was a lot higher. There was a lot high- parity could actually encourage com- because your paycheck is going to er revenue loss from the elimination of panies to move production and jobs bulge. the estate tax, but even with the overseas. Would my colleague just repeat what changes, there is still a revenue loss of We mentioned earlier the tax cut for he found? an estimated $9 billion a year. major corporations. One of the great Mr. CASEY. I want people to make Well, what could we do with $9 bil- leaders of corporate America for many, sure that people know the document. lion? Well, in the midst of this debate many years, Jack Bogle of Vanguard, This is the document, JCX–68–17. If you about the Children’s Health Insurance said the following a few weeks ago. I look at the category of Americans who Program, just for 5 years of the Chil- don’t know what political party Jack are making $100,000 or less—that is 57 dren’s Health Insurance Program, that Bogle is in, but he said this most re- million households who make under is roughly the number that we need. So cently about corporate profits: $100,000—they would see either a tax in- 1 year of revenue losses from the estate Corporate profits after taxes last year were crease of one kind or another or a tax tax equals 5 years, roughly, of paying the highest they’ve ever been in the history cut of less than $9 a month in 2019. for the Children’s Health Insurance of GDP going back to 1929. And we are think- I don’t think that is much help when Program. And that is not done yet. The ing of giving relief to the corporations at the we consider that it is not as if that is Children’s Health Insurance Program highest levels ever. Individual wages are at the only revenue available—that all we expired September 30, and I hope that the lowest level in about 15 years as a per- can come up with is $9 a month—be- in the midst of all of this work on tax cent of GDP. cause I just walked through the other policy, we are going to get that done. I Those are not my words; those are number which is relevant—the $36 bil- know that the distinguished chairman Jack Bogle’s words. lion that will come in 2019, the second of the Finance Committee, for years, So corporations will have a tax wind- year that the bill is in effect, going to from the beginning, has been a strong fall to spend on increasing executive households worth more than $1 million. advocate of the Children’s Health In- compensation if they want or increas- If I had to choose, I would say that surance Program, and I commend him ing stock buybacks or increasing divi- we should give all of that $36 billion to for that, but we have to get it reau- dends. All this is with absolutely no middle-income families or folks trying thorized in a few short days. guarantees that workers will see bene- to get to the middle class or at least a I wanted to talk as well—I know I fits from this tax cut, despite asser- substantial percentage of the $36 bil- probably am limited on time, and I will tions by many here in Washington lion. I have been asking for months: move quickly—on the Republican budg- about what would happen on wages and Why do people making more than $1 et because you can’t really read the tax other benefits. million, that category of Americans, changes in isolation; you have to also Mr. President, I have maybe 3 more need $36 billion in tax cuts? I don’t consider them in the context of the Re- minutes. I know we are maybe a little think they do. publican budget resolution that passed. over time. It is interesting—I want to commend That budget proposal, which did pass, There has been a little bit of discus- the work of the ranking member of the proposes to cut Medicaid by $1 trillion sion—not enough—about what happens Finance Committee. In some of our de- over the next 10 years. So that is $1 to the Consumer Price Index, which is bates, one of the numbers that came trillion with a ‘‘t’’ for Medicaid. The used as a baseline for measuring pro- out in the last couple of weeks was Republican budget also proposes to cut grams over time. Maybe the most per- what has happened to the top 1 percent Medicare by over $400 billion over the nicious tax—and that is the best word since 1980. I said several times that same period, over 10 years. So the pro- for it—in the bill is the so-called they have had a bonanza. I didn’t have posal roughly proposes to cut about Chained CPI, which alters the way in- an exact number when I said that; now $1.5 trillion from just Medicare and flation is measured. This bill raises an I do. Since 1980, the share of national Medicaid. All the while, this Repub- estimated $134 billion on the backs of income for these folks in the top 1 per- lican tax bill contains almost the same hard-working Americans by changing cent, which is less than $1 million a amount of unpaid-for tax cuts. how the Tax Code measures inflation— year, but it is about $730,000 and up, so We heard recently from Speaker so-called Chained CPI. So it is the that is—the 1 percent goes beyond the RYAN that he wants to ‘‘reform’’ Medi- measurement of inflation that is going millionaires and up. But since 1980, the care, Medicaid, and Social Security. to change, and that is going to have an top 1 percent have had their share of Well, my view of that is, when they adverse consequence for untold mil- national income go up from 11 percent talk about reform in that context, that lions of Americans. This number grows to 20 percent, from 1980 to 2014, so it means cutting—cutting funding for over time. The Joint Committee on

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:15 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.072 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8123 Taxation told us that this single provi- from a small business family. My dad the child tax credit for families trying sion increases taxes by at least three worked 6, 7 days a week growing up. He to make ends meet. We protected the times as much in the next decade as it sold HVAC equipment and spent a lot adoption tax credit so that caring did in the first decade—potentially as of time on the road. I know because he adults can become loving parents. We high as $400 billion in the second 10 told me that it irked him that when he preserved private activity bonds. These years. This will be in full force when a added up his profits, he discovered to- benefit low-income housing and help to lot of young people are entering the ward the end of the year that over half build hospitals and schools and other workforce. Someone who is just start- of what he earned he paid to various essential programs in the communities ing their professional life will see this forms of government. We provide relief that need them most. tax increase haunt their paychecks for to businesses like that. Now, the bill also makes good on our the next 50 years. We shift the structure of the inter- promise to repeal what many regard as There is a lot we could talk about in national tax system so that foreign the most oppressive aspect of terms of missed opportunities here, but profits from U.S.-based companies will ObamaCare—the individual mandate let me conclude with this: There is be invested right here in American tax. I promised Hoosiers for years and nothing in this bill that invests in re- communities, not overseas. years that I would get rid of the indi- building America. I thought we would Throughout this process, I have lis- vidual mandate. Tonight we will be ful- have an opportunity to do that, as we tened carefully to extensive feedback filling that promise. seemed to be headed that way a couple from the people of Indiana, and I have In Indiana nearly 140,000 Hoosiers of years ago, but we don’t have that op- to say that I am grateful for all the chose to pay this tax instead of buying portunity with this bill. We could be Hoosiers who weighed in over the insurance they either don’t want or using this opportunity to make a sub- course of this effort. They helped me can’t afford. In my home State, 81 per- stantial investment in roads, bridges, shape this work product in a way that cent of those who paid this tax made schools, water systems, or the like, but will more benefit the people of Indiana less than $50,000 per year. This comes that won’t happen. In our State, we today and for future generations. from the IRS. And 40 percent of the have 4,500 structurally deficient I heard, for example, from Susan people who pay this tax make less than bridges, and we wish that we would get from Indianapolis. Susan said: $25,000 a year. Tell me this isn’t a tax some more help in addition to State Our tax system has become so com- on the working poor. dollars going for those. plicated—the average person needs to hire This bill lifts the burden for families There is nothing in the bill to expand someone with expertise to help. If most of us in Indiana and across the country, and college affordability and nothing to en- didn’t have to hire help—right there we’d be it is one of the many reasons that I sure that workers’ wages increase. saving money. will be proudly supporting it. Collec- Amendments like that were offered in Susan, you are right, and that is why tively, this is a no-brainer. This legis- the committee. It was all Democrats we have lightened the burden for mil- lation will lead to an increase in cap- for the amendment and all Republicans lions of Americans with this proposal. ital investment, which will lead to an against it. Under this act that we will be voting increase in economic growth. This bill Those in the middle class and those on this evening, 9 out of 10 Americans will make workers more productive so working to join the middle class con- can take the standard deduction. We that they earn higher wages. This bill, tinue to tread water in this bill, while have doubled the standard deduction, across every income category, will the superrich zoom ahead. vastly simplifying compliance with a cause Americans to see a reduction in Mr. President, I yield the floor. convoluted, unfair Tax Code that picks their tax rates and more take-home The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- winners and losers. We undo so much of pay—more of their hard-earned money ator from Indiana. that with this bill we will vote on this in their pockets. So many Americans Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I rise evening. haven’t seen an increase in take-home today in support of the Tax Cuts and I heard from Debbie from Clark pay in well over a decade. It is time to Jobs Act. We know the world has County. Debbie contacted my office provide relief to hard-working Amer- changed a whole lot in the last 30 about her business’s challenges. Debbie ican families. It is time to create cer- years—the way we travel, how we com- said the following: tainty for our job creators so that they municate, the way we work, our hair- We are constantly striving to reinvest in can create more jobs. styles, the clothes we wear, the movies our company through new equipment and in- I look forward to helping to move we watch, the music we listen to—but creased wages to hire and retain good em- this legislation across the finish line one thing hasn’t changed: Our outdated ployees. A lower corporate tax rate will this evening. I hope we get some bipar- Tax Code hasn’t kept up. We simply allow us to buy more equipment and offer tisan support in that effort. can’t afford to wait any longer. Now is . . . better wages. I yield the floor. the time to act. It is common sense, and I am glad The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Hoosiers need a raise. Working fami- that Debbie contacted me to reinforce ator from Massachusetts. lies across America need a raise. Amer- what is on the mind of so many Hoosier Ms. WARREN. Mr. President, today ican businesses need to remain com- business owners. is a terrible day. It is a terrible day for petitive in what is an increasingly This bill continues and expands the millions of working families in this global and hypercompetitive economy. support for Indiana’s highest priorities, country. They just want Congress to The bill we are voting on today will and that is why I will be supporting it. work for them. It is a terrible day for provide real relief to all Americans, es- Among these priorities are deductions people who just want to get on with pecially middle-class families and for contributions to benefit our chari- their lives and not have Congress cost those of modest means. The Tax Cuts table organizations essential to com- them even more money. and Jobs Act will creates a Tax Code munities throughout Indiana and It is a terrible day for millions of that is simpler, that is fairer, and that throughout our country and keeping hard-working people, but it is a great allows Hoosiers to keep more of their tuition waivers for graduate students day for giant multinational corpora- hard-earned money, and that is what untaxed. I again thank the graduate tions and billionaires who fund Repub- they want. students and all the stakeholders lican campaigns across this country. This bill we are voting on today will throughout Indiana who had concerns Today is their day. Every fundraiser, help create an environment where jobs related to this issue. They weighed in. every fat check from a billionaire, and and businesses can grow by making We made changes to the legislation to every champagne-and-caviar party has permanent a corporate tax reduction to accommodate their concerns, and this been about getting to this day—the day 21 percent. We have the highest cor- will enable Hoosiers to be better when the politicians whom they put in porate tax rate in the industrialized equipped to thrive in this ever-chang- charge of Washington would pay them world. That is no way to remain coming global economy in which we live. back with a $1.5 trillion giveaway. petitive. We managed to maintain the earned Supporters of this bill call it tax re- We will lighten the burden on small income tax credit so that work pays form. It is not tax reform. It is a businesses with this legislation. I come more than joblessness. We expanded heist—a heist that steals from millions

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.074 S19DEPT1 S8124 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 of middle-class families and hands that But today, the politicians who run go back home to Illinois, I run into money over to the wealthy; a heist Congress will slash corporate taxes people who say: I saw you on C–SPAN. that will hurt Medicare and Social Se- even more and shift even more of the I often joke and say: Do you have curity and reduce healthcare coverage burden onto working families. Working trouble sleeping? Why are you watch- by 13 million people in order to hand people will pay more so that giant cor- ing C–SPAN? over money to giant corporations that porations can pay less. I wonder who it is that really watch- are already rolling in profits; a heist There is no better example of this es C–SPAN. It could be a lot of people that will hurt our economy and blow a than the bill’s treatment of Wells who are really fascinated by politics. It hole in our national debt. Fargo. Last year, we found out that could be folks who are finding it dif- The American people have seen Wells Fargo had opened millions of ficult to sleep. It could be some older through this scam. They see through fake accounts so that executives could folks who just pass the time by watch- every lie that has been pushed forward. goose their sales numbers, drive up ing what happens on the floor of the They know this bill doesn’t provide stock prices, and rake in bigger bo- Senate and the House. middle-class tax relief. It ultimately nuses. It turns out that Wells Fargo Tonight, I think we have a special raises taxes on more than 60 percent of had also charged half a million cus- audience of C–SPAN. Tonight, I think working families in this country. They tomers for auto insurance they didn’t it is entirely possible that we are going know this bill does not promote eco- need, which meant that a lot of peo- to have the wealthiest section of audi- nomic growth. Nonpartisan projections ple—including soldiers and sailors and ence and television viewers in the his- have shown that it will have a neg- marines—got their cars repossessed. tory of C–SPAN. Do you know why? ligible impact. Even former Republican That sounds pretty sleazy. But instead They have a bill coming up—a bill that officials admit it. They know this bill of holding them accountable for cheat- is designed for the wealthiest people in will not raise wages for working peo- ing their customers, this Congress is on America. So they are probably at this ple. Corporate CEOs have already said the verge of passing a tax bill that will point trying to figure out how to live- so. Those CEOs have told everyone who shower more free money on Wells stream C–SPAN onto their yachts so would listen that when they get their Fargo than any bank in the country. they can see if this tax bill is going to truckloads of money from the GOP tax That is right. When this bill passes, the pass. Why would they do that? Why bill, they will turn right around and punishment to Wells Fargo for cheat- would they be tuned in? Because this is funnel that money to their wealthy ing millions of Americans will be a big the biggest tax break for the wealthi- shareholders. gift-wrapped present worth billions of est people in the history of Tax Code They know this bill isn’t even to help dollars in tax giveaways. reform. It is. Americans. A third of those share- This tax bill is shameful, and it is the It turns out that in 2027, 83 percent of holders who will get truckloads of result of a shameful process. There the tax breaks in this bill go to the top money from the GOP bill don’t even were no hearings on the bill that over- 1 percent of wage earners in America. live in the United States. hauls the Tax Code and shifts around Boy, how can you sit down and write a Over the last month and a half, we trillions of dollars, no input from a sin- tax bill that is so lopsided for the have all watched as one Republican gle Democrat, and no time for vetting wealthiest people in America? You had Senator after another has cast aside by actual tax experts. to have said to the staff first: Find out Big-time donors are very happy with every single one of their supposed prin- what taxes are left that the wealthy this outrageous tax heist, but the ciples to get behind this monstrosity of might pay and get rid of them—reduce American people are angry, and they a bill. Real relief for the middle class is them right and left. And they did. are right to be angry. Over and over, gone. Concern about the national debt Imagine that that is your starting again and again, they watched this is gone. Concern about economic point for Tax Code reform in America— Congress ignore their pressing prob- growth is gone. that you are ignoring working families lems, ignore children’s health insur- There is only one principle left: Re- and the reality of the life they lead, ance, ignore flat wages, ignore an ward billionaire campaign donors. This you are ignoring small and medium- opioid crisis, ignore hurricanes and is not a conspiracy theory. It is not a sized businesses, and you are focusing wildfires, ignore working families who partisan attack. It is what Republicans on the wealthiest people in America are ripped apart by greedy politicians in Congress are saying in public to re- and the biggest corporations. and politics built right here in Wash- porters. As one of my Republican col- Do you know what I found in Illinois? ington. Over and over, again and again, When you travel around my State and leagues said in a moment of honesty, if they watch, instead, as Washington meet the business leaders and ask them they don’t pass this tax giveaway bill, jumps to do more favors for billion- point-blank: Tell me about Federal ‘‘financial contributions will stop.’’ aires, more favors for giant companies, taxes, the biggest corporations never And a Republican House Member said and more favors for campaign donors. big donors told him to pass the tax bill Today is just one more terrible day complain because the Tax Code is load- or ‘‘don’t ever call’’ them again. for hard-working Americans, just one ed with escape hatches for the biggest Let’s call this out for what it is. It is more terrible day in Washington where and wealthiest corporations and indi- government for sale. That is how you Washington works great for those at viduals. It is small and medium-sized end up with a $1.5 trillion tax giveaway the top and will not lift a finger to help businesses that pay the most taxes. to corporations at a time of record cor- anyone else. People’s anger is under- They are the ones that should have porate profits. It is not supposed to be standable. I share it. Sooner or later, a been the biggest beneficiaries on the this way. Congress is elected by the reckoning is coming, and I promise you bill. Secondly, there are the working people. It is supposed to represent their this: When it does—when the politi- families. People who are struggling interests, not those of the people and cians who lead this Congress and vote paycheck to paycheck, who can’t save companies rich enough to fund cam- for this tax heist are held accountable money for their kids’ future, are wor- paigns. for turning their backs on the Amer- ried about their kids’ student loans. Boy, there is a lot of work for us to ican people who sent us here—then we Wouldn’t it have been great if the Tax do. Over the last 30 years, corporate will be the kind of country we want to Code reform really focused on them in- profits have skyrocketed while wages be. Then we will be the kind of country stead of on the wealthiest people in for working people have stayed flat. we were meant to be—a democracy America? But even though corporations—not where everyone, even the richest and It is a stereotype, I know, that the families—have been getting richer and the most powerful, pay a fair share, Republicans worry about the rich in- richer, Congress has forced families to and where we all work to build a better stead of the working folks, but when pick up more and more of the cost of future for all of our kids. you look at this bill, sadly, that is the our military, our roads and bridges, I yield the floor. reality. and our schools. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The as- Here is the good news, if there is any Corporations used to pay about 30 sistant Democratic leader. good news in that terrible story I just percent of the cost of running the gov- Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, C–SPAN recounted. The American people get it. ernment. Now, it is under 10 percent. is an interesting phenomenon. When I They understand it. How in the world

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.075 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8125 could you write a bill and call it tax re- itol. They have spent the past 2 weeks its on the amount of deductions that form and tax cuts, and have two-thirds behind closed doors writing the final you could take for this. What does it of America hate it instantly? They did version of this tax bill. Only last Fri- mean? Ask the Realtors in my State, it. Congratulations. You put together a day evening—last Friday—we finally the homebuilders, and they will tell bill, which, instinctively, the American saw the text of this tax plan fully re- you that this is going to be a damper people knew was a bad deal for them. leased, fully revealed. There are more on economic growth in the State of Il- And it is. than 1,000 pages of new Tax Code, and linois—a growth that we desperately When you take a look at this bill, that is what we are expected to under- need in my State to create jobs and op- you realize why we are asked to vote stand and to vote on in a matter of portunities. on this Republican tax plan—a plan days. This deduction is taken by nearly written behind closed doors and rushed Are the memories of my Republican one-third of all taxpayers, and tax- through Congress on a last-minute colleagues so short that they have for- payers in my home State benefit from rush this year. It is because the Repub- gotten their repeated calls of ‘‘read the it among the most in the Nation. The licans are bound and determined to bill’’ when we considered the Afford- principle is simple: Under the new Re- have something that they passed this able Care Act? Did they forget their publican plan, Illinoisans will start year. In all fairness, they passed the criticism of that process, which took paying Federal taxes on the local, Defense authorization bill, but they place, incidentally, over many months, State, and property taxes that they spent month after month on repeal and characterized by transparency, mul- pay, and they don’t receive the deduc- failure to replace our healthcare sys- tiple bipartisan hearings, and included tion that historically has been there. tem, and now, before they leave town well over 100 Republican amendments? Republicans apparently feel dif- at the end of this calendar year, they Have they forgotten all the criticism ferently because in the face of weeks of are bound and determined to get this they leveled on that effort to try to warnings from Realtors, homebuilders, done, whatever it takes, their so-called provide health insurance for more local school districts, State and local tax reform plan. Americans? officials, and first responders about the After a year in control of Congress This is no way for major legislation increased difficulty that the elimi- and the White House and extraor- to be written, this tax bill before us. It nation of this deduction will create, it dinarily few legislative achievements certainly reflects the best wishes and didn’t deter them one bit, and every to show for it, Republicans are forcing hardest work of many of the lobbyists single Illinois Republican Congressman through this partisan tax plan only a and corporate donors who benefit my ignored all of this and voted for this few short weeks after it was unveiled. Republican colleagues. terrible plan. It means higher tax bills You may not remember unless you Is it any wonder that after this for middle-income families in my State were watching C–SPAN that night—I rushed process, the initial analysis of and many others and a strain on cru- came to the floor when we were finally the final bill shows that millions of cial State and local investments in given the Senate tax bill. It was about working families in Illinois and across education, infrastructure, and public 500 pages long. As I was going through the Nation will be hurt, while the safety. it, on page 257—I remember the page— wealthiest 1 percent of wage earners in That isn’t the only hit to middle-in- I looked at it, and I thought, what is America receive a massive windfall? come families. Here is the one that I find the most reprehensible. Millions of this? There was a page in the middle of Sadly, it is no surprise. people will lose health insurance be- the tax bill with all sorts of scribbled In their plan, Republicans chose to cause of this tax reform bill. It guts handwriting that was absolutely im- make essentially all individual provi- one of the major provisions of the Af- possible to read. Now, remember, this sions to the tax bill temporary in order to pay for massive, permanent cor- fordable Care Act. is a Tax Code that is going to have an After failing miserably to achieve porate cuts that will overwhelmingly impact on individuals, families, and one of their campaign promises to re- benefit the wealthiest investors. The businesses to the tune of millions of peal the Affordable Care Act and take result? As I said, when the bill is fully dollars, and here was a page in it that away healthcare from millions of fami- phased in by 2027, more than half of all no one could read. Do you know why I lies, Republicans slipped into this tax Americans will see their taxes increase know no one could read it? I submitted bill a provision that undermines the under the Republican plan. These are it to the RECORD, and the clerk of the Affordable Care Act. The net result of tax increases that will be felt particu- Senate came and found me afterward it is an increase of 10 to 20 percent for larly hard by those households in the and said: Senator, you can’t put this in health insurance premiums for those the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD because we bottom 60 percent and those families buying in the marketplace, and—this is can’t read it. That is what was going with kids. By 2027, while middle-in- a kicker—13 million Americans are on here in writing the Tax Code of the come families pay a higher tab, the going to lose health insurance because United States of America. It was a richest 1 percent of Americans will re- of this health reform bill that is slapdash, hurried effort that sadly does ceive a whopping 83 percent of all the brought to us by the Republicans. not reflect the best of this institution tax cuts under this plan. I just can’t I don’t see how you can go home to or the best of the Members who are believe they pulled this off, that the any State and say: Good news. I gave a part of it. Republicans figured out how to give 83 tax break to the wealthiest people in Why would they do this? Because if percent of the tax breaks to the top 1 America and the biggest corporations, this bill were subject to proper scru- percent of wage earners in America and and average working folks here are tiny, as it should have been—you only sell it as tax reform to help working going to lose their health insurance. really reform the Tax Code once every families. It is indefensible. How can you stand up and say that is several decades—a monumental give- This devastating result was baked good for your State or for this country? away to corporate America would have into the DNA of this Republican plan Republicans’ efforts to take away emerged, a tax break or giveaways to from the start. There is no greater ex- healthcare from families and give tax the wealthiest Americans. ample of this than Republicans’ deter- cuts to the wealthy shouldn’t surprise So while most families are focused on mination to erode State and local tax us. The surprise here is that so many of getting ready for the holidays, my Re- deductions. It used to be a standard the so-called fiscal hawks—how many publican colleagues and friends are principle in American taxation that times have I heard my Republican col- hoping most Americans will be too you wouldn’t tax people on the money leagues come to the floor and pose for busy to notice them passing a tax bill they paid in other taxes. We didn’t tax holy pictures when it comes to the na- that will raise taxes on middle-income a tax until this bill came along. We tional debt. Oh, it goes over and over families. used to say that if you pay a State in- again, the speeches they give when This is supposed to be the greatest come tax or State sales tax or State there is a Democratic President. Now deliberative body in the world, the U.S. property tax, we are not going to im- that there is a Republican President, Senate, and my Republican colleagues pose a Federal tax on your tax pay- political amnesia has set in. threw regular order and bipartisan ment—no tax on the tax. They didn’t It turns out that this Republican tax input right out the window of the Cap- buy it. They changed it. They put lim- reform—giving tax breaks to the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00053 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.076 S19DEPT1 S8126 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 wealthy and not to the middle-income rules and regulations out there where shameful. There will be a day of reck- families of America—will add $1.5 tril- that is taken care of. But it seems that oning, and it is today. Our President lion to our national debt. Who will pay if you are good at it in this body and took that seriously, and he said that off that debt for these tax breaks to can get away with it long enough, that job No. 1 is growing the economy. the wealthy? I am afraid it is our kids what Vladimir Lenin once said is true, Let’s put that in perspective. He said, and our grandkids. Somehow these fis- and that is this: It doesn’t matter what in the first year of his administration, cal hawks are able to convince them- you say is true; it only matters that he wanted to focus on three things that selves that cutting taxes on the you say it and say it and say it, and would grow the economy. One is he wealthy is worth a new burden on our pretty soon, to the common folks in wanted to pull back on regulations. I kids. your country, it becomes true. am here to tell my colleagues that over When you get past all the fancy rhet- Well, I think we have lived through a 860 of the most onerous regulations and oric, the bottom line is, Republicans century where we have done nothing rules have been reversed so far this believe that we can afford to add $1.5 but disproved that as a free society year. trillion to the debt if it means giving here and as a leader of the free world. The second thing President Trump tax cuts to the wealthy but that we I think what is at stake tonight in said was he wanted to work on energy. can’t afford it as a nation when we this vote is bigger than just a few Well, we got the Keystone Pipeline know we are going to need it to make changes in our Tax Code. Good grief. working. He actually moved on stop- massive investments in things that We can work for the next 10 years and ping the Clean Power Plan that was mean a lot to working families. not clean up every detail in this Tax thwarting the energy production in Shouldn’t we have put more money Code, but this is a first step to bringing this country, and, in this bill tonight, into fighting the opioid crisis that sanity back to our country. we will open up ANWR production to claimed almost 2,000 lives last year in Let me put a little perspective on give us capability on the energy side of my home State of Illinois? Shouldn’t this. Let’s talk about what President our economy. The third thing the President said he we have put more money into helping Trump inherited when he took office in wanted to do was to change our archaic kids go to college so they aren’t bur- January of this year. tax plan; not to give money to the rich dened with student loans that change We had 8 years of the lowest eco- but to open our companies and our their lives? Shouldn’t we have put nomic growth in the history of the workers to be more competitive with more money into medical research? United States—1.9 percent. We had the lowest workforce participation rate in the rest of the world. Couldn’t we have put more money into For the last decade—maybe even the investing in our infrastructure? No. over 40 years. In the last 8 years, we borrowed 35 last 30 years—I have lived this in my The Republicans say there is a much career. For 40 years, I have watched higher priority—tax cuts for wealthy percent of every dollar that was spent by the Federal Government—this body U.S. competitiveness decline and de- people. cline and decline. Why? Because of two borrowed before you and I got in the What does make sense to my con- reasons. Our Federal Government grew Senate. stituents and millions more across out of any proportion. In 2000, the size America is that $1.5 trillion increase in Under the last administration, for 6 years of those 8 years, the opposing of our government was $2.4 trillion. national debt poses a real threat to our Last year, it was $4 trillion. That is party in this body had a supermajority economic future and a threat to the fu- under one Republican administration for 2 years and they had a majority for ture of Medicare and Medicaid. and one Democratic administration. 4. So for 6 years, that party had the PAUL RYAN, Speaker of the House, We have put regulation on top of regu- White House and they had a majority Republican leader, said they are going lation. We liberalized all of our social in the Senate at least. In those 8 years, to take care of the added deficit and programs to the point we cannot afford they doubled our national debt from debt by cutting entitlement programs it. like Medicare and Medicaid. I would $10 trillion to $20 trillion this year, The other thing we did is we loaded say to PAUL RYAN, my neighbor from even though last year—or the last year onto this tax situation where we lost Wisconsin, you are in for a fight, my of the last administration, 2016—our our competitiveness with the rest of friend—and it will not be just the Federal Government collected more the world. The rest of the world low- Democrats; it will be a lot of folks in Federal tax than any other year in our ered their tax rates while we actually Wisconsin who aren’t going to stand history, and the last few years have increased ours, they reduced their reg- for that outcome. been the same. ulations while we increased ours, and Americans deserve better than what With all that borrowing, even when we just simply lost our competitive the Republican leaders in Congress the last administration said: OK, we edge, such that today, two out of every have brought to us in this bill—rushed need to fix infrastructure, we need to three acquisitions regarding a U.S. through without bipartisan consider- get the economy going—they put $1 company are U.S. companies being ation and without review by experts. trillion into fake infrastructure invest- bought by a foreign company. Now, This may be a ‘‘big political win for the ments, and none of these parameters that is a C corporation. In many cases, Republican Party and their donors,’’ moved. We still had no economic it is an S corporation. Why is that? It but it is on the backs of hard-working growth. is because of the difference between families. This is the same party that liberal- our 35 percent corporate tax rate and Some of these consequences that we ized Social Security and Medicare to the average of 18 percent in Asian face are already dangerously clear, oth- the point where they are not sustain- countries and 21 percent in Europe. All ers, which we will only discover as we able. And in just 14 years—14 years— we are doing is trying to reach some pore through the fine print of this both those trust funds go to zero. This point of being reasonably competitive 1,000-page bill—we can only guess what is not about going to Medicare and So- with the rest of the world. they will mean. cial Security and finding money to This President walked into a dis- Mr. President, I yield the floor. give to the rich; this is trying to figure aster, and what we have seen in the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- out how to get the economy going so first year are dramatic results: Two ator from Georgia. we can save Social Security and Medi- million new jobs have been created this Mr. PERDUE. Mr. President, I come care. It is no more complicated than year, 860 regulations reversed, and ille- from a different world. I come from the that. gal crossings on the southern border real world. I have been here just a cou- But what we are hearing here are are down 60 percent. ple of years, but this sort of rhetoric words like ‘‘shameful’’ and ‘‘ridicu- We passed a bill in this body 97 to 2 that we have heard on the floor of the lous.’’ I think what President Trump that allows a department head in the Senate over the last few weeks is amaz- walked into was shameful and ridicu- Veterans’ Administration to remove ing to me. The disinformation, the lous. For the United States—the people for cause, for lack of perform- known misleading statements that are wealthiest country in the history of ance. Guess what. So far this year, over made—that doesn’t exist for very long the world—to have those sorts of per- 500 people have been asked to leave be- in the real world because there are formance parameters is ridiculous. It is cause of performance reasons in our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.078 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8127 Veterans’ Administration. That is ness. Yet these are now the newfound arena. This $20 trillion in debt is the something both Democrats and Repub- experts in this body who say: Well, this beginning, it is not the end of the licans should be proud of. is not going to grow the economy. Of story. Unless we do something today We also see a Department of Edu- course, it is not; we need bigger gov- about our Federal debt, it is going to cation that has removed 300 people for ernment to grow the economy. Haven’t grow $11 trillion, is the latest estimate, the same reason. CEO competence is at we proven that? over the next decade. Most of that is on a 20-year high. Consumer confidence, No, we have disproved that. If any- the mandatory side. despite what the other side wants to thing, over the last 8 years, we have To solve this debt crisis, clearly we tell us, is at a 16-year high, and many proven that bigger government does have to grow the economy, but we will studies are proving that today. not correlate with a better, growing, not solve the debt crisis only by grow- Tonight I want to clear up some of competitive economy. What this bill ing the economy. We will not solve it the absolute, unbelievable mistruths simply does is it gets government back unless we start by growing the econ- and myths about this bill that are out of the way, to some degree, helps omy. being perpetrated. We heard several us become competitive with the rest of We are told by the Joint Committee just in the last hour on this floor. The the world, and ignites this economy. on Taxation and by the Congressional first, the great one—I love this: This Let’s just look at what is being said Budget Office—and both of these mod- tax plan is only going to help the about this. First of all, it has been esti- eling groups I have personal problems wealthy. We are going to tax the low- mated that nearly 1 million new jobs with—but even if you take their worst- income people in America, and we are will be derived because of this bill. It is case scenarios, you only have to grow going to give it to the billionaires. estimated that annual incomes of the economy two-tenths of 1 percent Let me just give some examples here. working Americans will go up some- per year. That is going from 1.9 per- A median-income family today—a fam- where between $4,000 and $9,000. That is cent, which is the average baseline of ily of four who works, with two kids, in addition to the tax cuts. That is be- the last 8 years, growing it by two- who makes a median income of $73,000 cause the demand for labor in a grow- tenths of 1 percent to 2.1 percent over a year is going to get a $2,200 tax re- ing economy will create rising wages. the next decade. There has only been duction. That is a 60-percent reduction The other side says: Well, to get ris- one time in one decade in the last 70 in their Federal tax rate. ing wages, you need to increase min- years where this economy didn’t grow A single working mother, as an ex- imum wage. That is the wrong way to more than 2.5 percent, and in that dec- ample, with one child at home—now, look at this. This bill, I can tell from ade it grew 2.3 percent. So in no decade this is a parent who has to find personal experience, will create de- since World War II have we grown less childcare, has to find a way to work, mand for labor, and that labor will in- than 2.3 percent. gets very little help from family or crease in price. In addition, CBO says we have to friends, doesn’t own a home—I know GDP will grow somewhere between 3 grow 2.2 or 2.3 percent. The last two many people like this—that person is and 5 percent over the next decade. I quarters are already over 3 percent. going to get a 75-percent tax cut in this actually believe it will be much more The fourth quarter looks like it will be bill. than that. The big one, in my mind, is as well if we pass this tax bill tonight. Beyond that, today, 52 percent of by eliminating the repatriation tax, It just seems to me that people who households in America—this is before and, by the way, we are the last coun- have experience in the real-world econ- this bill—pay zero Federal income tax, try in the world to still have this ar- omy know that investing in our work- but this bill goes further. Up to 6 mil- chaic tax, which we collect no tax on ers is the best investment we can lion people will potentially be removed today, but eliminating that brings over make, and that is what this tax bill from the tax rolls because of this bill. $2.6 trillion back into this economy. does. Don’t be confused by the rhetoric. I am just a simple business guy, but I The other side says: Well, that is not Members of the other body in the last just look at the facts. These are mathe- going to go to the economy, it is going hour say there is going to be a day of matical facts here. There is no projec- to dividends or to pay down debt. Guess reckoning. There is, because I believe tion, no opinion. This is part of this what. In a capitalistic society, it is all that the other side has failed the work- bill that belies half of the mistruths we contributory. It all adds to the benefit ing poor in this country. The best ex- just heard in the last hour on this of growing the economy. ample is ObamaCare, perpetrated by floor. Capital formation is part of what cre- the supermajority, 60 votes on the The second one is a process question. ated this miracle in the first place. The other side, and we know it is now col- Of course, this is what we always hear last 70 years in America has been, I lapsing under its own weight, but this the minority party say. I dare say, as would argue—as a 40-year experienced is what they have done to the working an outsider, I heard Republicans say veteran of the business community poor in America. this in the last 6 years. There is no here, as the only Fortune 500 CEO in In 2014—and it has been that way transparency, no regular process, no the Senate and in all of Congress, I over the last 3 years as well—but 2014 is regular order. Well, in the last few would argue that this economic wind- the last year we can get from the IRS. years, there have been over 70 public fall we have experienced over the last 7 Under ObamaCare, the IRS fined 8 mil- hearings—Senate hearings in com- years in America is based on three lion people in America $2 billion, and mittee—about tax reform. This par- things: On the top of the best work- the irony is, half of those people make ticular bill has been in full regular force in the history of the world, it is less than $25,000. Now, that is out- order. Yes, it was done in reconcili- innovation, capital formation, and the rageous, and for those same people to ation, but that is regular order. I per- rule of law. Quite frankly, because of beat their chests now about this being sonally would have preferred not to regulations in this body over the last for the rich, it is even more out- have done that, but it is within regular 15 years and because of our Tax Code, rageous. order. we have taken those for granted. To- I will close with this. The biggest ar- It went through committee. Amend- night we begin to reverse that. gument they make is that this is for ments were put up and debated and The next claim I want to debunk is the rich, and the rich are not paying passed in committee. Then the bill was that this tax plan adds $1 trillion—I their fair share. The top 1 percent brought to the floor. We voted on love this one—will add $1 trillion to the today pay about 40 percent of all tax amendments on this floor, and then it debt. This is from the other side that revenues that we have, and the top 10 went to a full vote and was passed—or administered more than doubling our percent pay over 70 percent. That was will be passed tonight. debt in the last decade. No other Presi- true before this bill, and that is going The third myth: This tax plan will dent in the history of our country, to be true after this bill. not generate economic growth. This is prior to the last administration, added What is going to also be true is the a really rich one because most of the $10 trillion to the debt of this Nation. fact that the working men and women people saying that have never written There is no bigger debt hawk in this of America will find that their place of their signature on the front of a check. body than I, and I can tell you this is employment, whether it is a one-man They just simply haven’t been in busi- what brought me into the political self-proprietorship, a one-woman self-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00055 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.080 S19DEPT1 S8128 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 proprietorship, or a major corporation, an extraordinary thing to get the ma- have added a provision that is now in those companies, in a global economy, jority of Americans against a bill that the conference report which takes out are going to find themselves more com- is purported to be a tax cut, because an essential part of the Affordable Care petitive because of what President they understand it is not a tax cut for Act on individual responsibility that Donald J. Trump is doing in this tax middle-income families. would ultimately leave about 13 mil- bill and what we are backing up to- Let me give one number. The cor- lion Americans without health insur- night. I argue that this is a historic porate tax rate under this bill will be ance. day, not just because of tax relief for reduced from 35 percent to 21 percent. Why was this done? It was done for the working men and women of Amer- That is a substantial reduction in the two reasons. First, Republicans have ica, or building competitiveness for corporate tax rate. Now, understand been trying to repeal the Affordable those same people around the world, that only about 5 percent of the largest Care Act, and these 13 million people but for our kids and grandkids so we businesses in America pay the cor- who have benefits today are going to can begin to deal with this huge grow- porate tax rate. It isn’t a rate paid by lose it. But a second thing is that you ing debt. small businesses. This is paid by can use those savings—and they are People say: Well, you are adding megacorporations. They are getting a not real savings; we are talking about debt. No, this is an investment, and, by tax cut. less money being used to help people the way, it is not $1.5 trillion. They When we look at the cost of that tax get health insurance—to provide addi- know that $500 billion of that—one- cut as scored by the Joint Committee tional tax cuts for wealthy Americans third of it—is this policy versus law. on Taxation—the professionals—it is and corporations. So you are knocking They know that, but it still makes a about $1.5 trillion of business tax relief. 13 million people out of health insur- better story. They also know that $200 Guess who pays that $1.5 trillion. It ance and using that money in order to billion of that are fake costs because it goes on our national debt, and middle- extend these tax breaks for higher in- says if you eliminate the way it is income taxpayers are going to be asked come and businesses. That is uncon- scored right now, if you eliminate the to foot the bill. scionable. repatriation tax, the Joint Committee They get that. They understand this What is going to come next when you on Tax and the Congressional Budget doesn’t help middle-income families. are not even subtle about this? They Office, in their infinite wisdom, say You are not helping middle-income now are going to say that the deficits that is going to cost you $200 billion. families when you raise the estate tax are bigger than previously expected. I We don’t collect $200 billion in repatri- limits so fewer families pay the estate hear my friends on the Republican side. tax, which already affects only the 0.2 ation tax. As an outsider, I cannot be- They are deficit hawks. Well, you are percent wealthiest in America. They lieve we sit here and talk about these not deficit hawks when you deficit-fi- are getting a break. Already, we have a fake numbers that way. nance a tax cut. That is not helping The President of the United States concentration of wealth in America. this country. has a vision for our country. We need The top 1 percent owns close to 40 per- So what comes next? Well, we are to rise up and be competitive again in cent of the wealth in America. They going to have to cut Medicaid and understand that doesn’t help middle-in- order to deal with this long-term tax Medicare. Who suffers when you cut come families because they understand situation but, more importantly—or as Medicaid and Medicare? It is going to that we have seen in America the importantly—to be able to afford to do be middle-income families again. shrinking of the middle class and that the right things for our people. When Then we have to take a look at the we have had an increase in income and we have hurricanes, when we have Federal budget. We have heard some of wealth disparity in America. my colleagues already talk about this. fires, we don’t have the resources to do That is not good for our economy. that. Every dime we are spending be- I see plans right now that we are going That is not how you grow an economy to take it out on the Federal work- hind these hurricanes and behind the or how you grow a middle class. This fires and behind all of the things we are force—the Federal workforce, which bill will not grow a middle class. This has already contributed about $182 bil- doing is borrowed. Every time we spend bill will make even more extreme the lion to the deficit, through getting pay on our military, it is borrowed money. income and wealth disparities in this adjustments below the cost of living, The only way to eventually change country. that is to begin to grow our economy. They also get it when we talk about having freezes, going through con- This is only one of many steps that are what is temporary and what is perma- tinuing resolutions, sequestration, and required, but this tonight becomes his- nent. I really appreciate my friends government shutdowns, asked to do toric because you can’t do the others talking about the deficit. Of course, more with less. We are talking about critical services unless you make this economy com- they don’t include the fact that many to the American people, whether it is petitive. of these tax provisions are only tem- I want to praise our President to- porary, such as the major tax relief for research done at the National Insti- night for having the guts to stick individuals. That is temporary in na- tutes of Health, whether it is food safe- through this process. We are going to ture. The business tax is permanent. ty, whether it is veterans services, or pass this bill tonight and make Amer- I hear my Republican friends saying whether we are talking about dealing ica great again because we are going to that we will just extend it. If you ex- with the opioid crisis in America. All make America competitive again. tend it, the deficit is even larger than of that is in jeopardy, and we know Thank you. the $1.5 trillion. As to the individuals that. We know they are coming back I yield the floor. and the middle-income families who with cuts in these programs because we The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- get some of the benefits of this bill, now have a bigger deficit as a result of ator from Maryland. when we add it all up, they lose. The giving corporations these big tax Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, the benefits they get are temporary, but cuts—not all businesses, just the big- American people understand this bill. business tax relief is permanent. This gest businesses—and giving the high- They understand this bill will hurt bill is an assault on middle-income income people this tax relief. That is middle-income families, and they know families. why the American people do not like this bill will add to the deficit. They When we take a look at how we are this bill. understand the Joint Committee on going to have to pay off that deficit We talked about creating jobs. I Tax has scored the bill as adding to the and who is going to pay off that deficit, heard my friend again talking about deficit. I hear so many of my Repub- it is going to be middle-income fami- creating 1 million jobs under this tax lican friends talk about these deficit lies left holding the bill. We know that. bill—spending $1.5 trillion and creating hawks. We follow the recommendations That is why this bill is not popular. 1 million jobs. We had bipartisan legis- of our professionals. This bill will add That is why we know that it is not lation in the last Congress that took a to the deficit. That is why the Amer- good for middle-income families and it couple hundred billion dollars of one- ican people believe this tax bill, which is not good for our economy. time only revenues and said the re- has been advertised by Republicans as But they even go further. It has been sponsible thing would be to use that to a tax cut, is not good for America. It is pointed out in the Senate that they seed infrastructure. If we could get

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:12 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.081 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8129 that up to about $300 billion, we create provision. We have never had a hearing into a hearing to understand the im- 4 million jobs. So that is 4 million jobs on that provision. We never brought pact this is going to have? No, it is for $300 billion. Here we have 1 million State people into our committee and going to have a negative impact on our jobs, by their own number, and spend- say: What happens if we raise the de- nonprofit charitable groups, and that is ing $1.5 trillion. It is a terrible invest- duction? What impact does it have on another consequence of this legisla- ment for the American people. We can the States? What are the impacts on tion, that we don’t have the full impact do better. the States if we eliminate State and to understand. This bill is also an attack on our local tax deductions? We haven’t had Let me talk just a minute about this States. It is an attack on Marylanders. those discussions. 20 percent deduction on passthrough It is an attack on the State of Mary- Quite frankly, it is going to be more income. Just so people in this country land. Marylanders will come out much challenging for our States and local understand, this is a rather com- worse under this bill. There are many governments to meet their needs. They plicated provision that was added to reasons for it, but one of the major rea- have the primary function for edu- the bill. It provides additional tax re- sons is that the bill eliminates the de- cating our children and keeping our lief for businesses that do not use the C duction for State and local taxes. I am communities safe. That is a primary tax rate. These are our partnerships, going to talk for a moment about that function of local government, and sani- our S corporations, our limited part- because I did serve in the State legisla- tation and dealing with public health. nerships, and our sole proprietorships. ture, as did many of the Members of It is going to be much more chal- Understand what we are trying to do this body. I believe we should respect lenging for our State and local govern- here. Because we have cut the cor- State and local government. It is the ments to be able to do their finance. porate rates so low—down to 21 percent same taxpayer who pays local taxes, Did we consider that when we took up from 35 percent—we recognize that pays State taxes, and pays Federal this bill? The answer is no. There are other businesses now are going to be at taxes. Ever since we adopted a Federal so many consequences to this bill that a disadvantage. That is true. So we are income tax, one of the only provisions have not really been thought out. Let trying to figure out some way to give that remains intact throughout the en- me just give a few. them tax relief. tire history of the income tax is to say There is a reason why people con- Now, I have heard my colleagues talk that we are not going to tax on tax. We cerned about the real estate industry about simplifying the Tax Code. This are not going to impose taxes on State are concerned about this bill. The limi- provision does anything but simplify and local taxes. That, of course, was tations we put on the deductions of the Tax Code. It has what is known as one of the reasons why a constitutional property taxes and the limitations that guardrails as to how we calculate how amendment was changed, to allow in- have been increased on the amount of much you can take, up to the 20 per- come taxes, and now we are breaking interest you can deduct on mortgages cent of the distribution, as a non- that commitment on Federalism. will all have an impact on property taxable event. That guardrail affects We are really breaking the constitu- values. Properties that Americans own the type of business you are doing, it tional spirit to tell our State and local will be less valuable with the passage affects the amount of assets you have, governments that we are going to im- of this bill because they will not be it affects the amount of salaries you pose taxes on taxes and make it more able to get the same tax advantages as give, the labor that is done within it, difficult for them to raise the revenue they had prior to it. Have we thought whether it is actually services per- they need in order to finance State and about that impact? Have we thought formed by the partnership or not. My local services. In Maryland, about 45 percent of about what that does to wealth and goodness, it is a minefield for account- Marylanders use the State and local middle-income families? Have we ants and tax lawyers to now develop tax deduction. We happen to rank No. 1 thought about what impact that has on shelters. in the Nation on the number of tax- assessed evaluations on local govern- I am old enough to remember the 1986 payers that use State and local tax de- ments that depend upon property tax debates here in the United States ductions on their Federal income tax taxes? There has been no consideration Congress. I was not part of the Con- returns. of that. gress. I was in the State legislature at The average amount in Maryland on I met this week with leaders in our the time. I remember the effort to get deductions for State and local taxes is nonprofit community in Baltimore. We rid of shelters, because shelters are an $12,900. That is the average. So the av- went over some of the issues they deal inefficient way that you set up busi- erage taxpayer in Maryland is going to with in providing help to our commu- ness structures in order to minimize pay more taxes as a result of the $10,000 nity. Several were faith-based-type taxes. Well, this passthrough provision limit imposed in this bill. But it even charitable groups. I went over what im- is going to be used as shelters. There is gets worse for Marylanders, and I think pact it is going to have with the reno question about it. We have had no this is going to be typical in a lot of strictions on the number of people who hearings at all as to how we are going States around the Nation. Maryland are now going to be using itemized de- to deal with that problem. has an itemized deduction. It has ductions. Then I heard one of my colleagues on standardized deductions on their in- One of the charitable faith-based the Republican side talk about how come taxes, as many States do. But I groups I met with told me that the this is going to bring all these jobs think Marylanders are going to be sur- overwhelming majority of their givers back home. prised to find out they may not qualify are in the middle income. Today, they Let me make this clear. What this for itemizing their deductions at the are able to take a deduction because bill does is move toward a territorial Federal level because, as a result of the they use itemized deductions. Under tax system. What does that mean? changes that have been made here, this bill, most of those families are That means companies today that only about 5 percent of the people in going to fall within the standard de- outsource some of their work to an- this country will still use the itemized duction and will no longer be itemizing other country will be able to pay only deduction. their deductions on their Federal tax that country’s tax rate rather than the So go and do your Federal taxes, returns. U.S. tax rate. That means that in some then go do your State taxes, expecting Now, they don’t know what impact cases they will be able to pay less in to be able to deduct the State items, that is going to have. But when their taxes. What they can now do—because only to find that if you haven’t de- givers find out there is no tax advan- we are harmonizing to a territorial tax, ducted at the Federal level, you can’t tage to that gift, you know it is going we are rewarding some companies to deduct at the State level because we to have an impact. We know that. outsource. harmonize in our enforcement with the Charitable giving is going to be down. Do we understand what the lower tax Federal Government. You didn’t think I hear my colleagues talk frequently rates for corporations—what the net about that when you put this provision that a lot of what we do to help people impact will be on jobs in America? All in the bill. is that we rely upon the private sector. we hear is: Oh, we are going to create I heard my friend say we had hear- We rely upon the charitable groups. new job opportunities because we have ings. We didn’t have hearings on that Did we have the courtesy to bring them lower rates for businesses. But we don’t

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.083 S19DEPT1 S8130 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 tell the American people that they can want to simplify the Tax Code, so That is a fact. And it lowers rates. In keep those jobs overseas and pay a Americans understand it better and fact, it not only lowers rates for mid- lower tax rate. Let’s be honest about feel more comfortable that everyone is dle-income Americans, it lowers rates that. being treated fairly? Secondly, the one on every single income bracket in the Why didn’t we have a hearing on that argument I hear from all stakeholders IRS code. That is a fact. part? The consequences are far from is: Make the Tax Code predictable so Bottom line, an average family of understood. that we can plan. Give us the rules. four making $75,000 a year will have I have heard several of my colleagues Don’t change the law all the time. about 200 more dollars per month in talk on the floor of the Senate about Don’t put temporary provisions in take-home pay under this bill—$2,400 a preserving credits, that we preserve there because Congress has a habit of year. A single parent making $41,000 a this credit—like you are getting credit missing extender dates. We have al- year will see their tax bill decrease by for leaving something in the Tax Code. ready missed extender dates in this $1,300. That is a 73-percent decrease. Let me say something. Credits are im- Congress, and now we are talking That is a fact. It is in the bill. portant. In the city of Baltimore, we about leaving town this week while we Let me mention one other critical have used low-income housing tax cred- have provisions that have expired, such way in which this tax bill will bring its, historic tax credits, and new mar- as the Children’s Health Insurance Pro- middle-class and working-class tax re- ket tax credits to generate a lot of eco- gram. lief. It will get rid of the very regres- nomic activity. It is very difficult to What does this tax bill do? It has nu- sive and unfair individual mandate of put together a major economic pro- merous provisions that expire, some the Affordable Care Act. About 20,000 gram within our urban centers. I could within a short period of time, adding hard-working Alaskans and over 6 mil- point to West Baltimore and how we uncertainty to our Tax Code and the lion Americans have to pay a tax, a have used all those tools for urban re- planning of our Tax Code. This bill is penalty to the IRS for not buying development. I could point to our arts anything but simplifying the Tax Code, something—health insurance—that district and how that has been used. and it is certainly not providing pre- they cannot afford. Let me repeat that. I know this. Credits are not going to dictability. They are penalized for not buying be worth as much under this bill as The American people get it. That is something that they can’t afford. they were before because we have why they believe this bill should not be Think about the absurdity of that. changed the value of a tax credit. What passed. It is an assault on middle-in- Here is why this is such an important impact is that going to have? I don’t come families. It is dangerous to our middle-class tax cut. When we get rid know. The problem is, none of us know, national security because it increases of that penalty, close to 80 percent of but it is going to have a consequence. our deficit. It will hurt millions of peo- the 6 million Americans who pay the It is going to affect economic growth, ple who will lose their health coverage, ObamaCare individual mandate tax— and it is not going to be positive. We and it should be defeated. close to 80 percent of them—make haven’t taken steps to try to counter I yield the floor. $50,000 or less. Think about that. To- that. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. night, we are getting rid of that tax, I noticed there were some changes in WICKER). The Senator from Alaska. that unfair penalty, and that will un- the renewable energy sector. I don’t Mr. SULLIVAN. Mr. President, I doubtedly bring tax relief for the mid- fully understand all the changes, but I would like to spend a few moments dle class. do know those who are involved in talking about why my colleagues and This bill also decreases taxes on wind and solar believe that what we why the American people should be small businesses and companies so that have done will make it more difficult supportive of this very important legis- they can reinvest at home in our great for them to get investors. It sort of lation, historic legislation, that we are Nation, hire American workers, give looks as if, perhaps, this was an effort debating on the Senate floor. It is par- pay raises, and help grow our economy. to help the fossil fuel industry. ticularly historic for my State, the Many of these ideas, doing these When you look at the ANWR provi- great State of Alaska. There has been a kinds of things, have been bipartisan sion, which opens up the pristine areas lot of misinformation on this bill, and policy ideas for years when we have of the Arctic to drilling in Alaska, you we are seeing a robust debate, which is talked about tax reform. Let me give know that this bill is tilted toward fos- fine. you one. In 2012, President Obama said sil fuels rather than having a level I don’t need to repeat all the argu- that our current business tax structure playing field for America’s energy. I ments on both sides, but I will say that hurt American business and inhibited worry, is this the first step to mid-At- my colleagues on the other side have growth. He said that the tax system lantic drilling off the Atlantic coast off seemed to focus on one particular ‘‘provides tax breaks for moving jobs of Maryland? I worry about the impact point. They are coming here and mak- and profits overseas and hits compa- it could have on the Chesapeake Bay. ing this point again and again; that is, nies that choose to stay in America I must confide that I have been in the point that this bill will supposedly with one of the highest tax rates in the conversations with some of my col- raise taxes on the middle class. We are world.’’ leagues on both sides of the aisle, ask- hearing it, and everyone is saying it. That is from President Obama. It was ing whether we will cooperate on a cor- The problem with that argument is, it true then, and it is true today. rections bill. I find that amazing. We is fundamentally untrue. The truth Something has to be done, and we are haven’t passed this bill yet, and we are will be in the paychecks of the Amer- doing it tonight. The bill will also give talking about the process to correct ican people, which they will see in a small businesses and large companies a the mistakes that are clearly in this few months. chance to help grow our economy. You bill. That is not the way we should be Let me talk about some of the provi- have heard Senator after Senator come legislating. We know that we are going sions that are in the bill. The bill will to the Senate floor. My colleague from to have to revisit the passthrough pro- be a middle-class tax cut for the vast South Carolina has talked about this visions because we know they are not majority of Americans. eloquently for years. It is an issue I drafted right. We know the tax credits Here are some of the provisions. care deeply about. But here is the are going to need additional time. We These are in the bill. These are the issue. We have had a lost decade of eco- know the energy provisions are going facts. The bill doubles the standard de- nomic growth. For over 10 years, we to have to be revised. We know we have duction. For an individual, the stand- have not hit 3 percent GDP growth done damage to middle-income families ard deduction goes from $6,300 to once in a year. who are going to demand we correct $12,000. For married couples, it goes It is an issue I care deeply about. As this. Why don’t we get it right the first from $12,700 to $24,000. That is in the a matter of fact, I come to the floor time? Why do we have to look at pass- bill. That is important for middle-class and I talk about it a lot. One thing I ing a bill that we know is badly flawed? families. It doubles the child tax cred- have noticed in my 3 short years in the The last point I want to make is, it. The child tax credit is doubled from Senate is that I am not sure I have there has been a commitment that the current $1,000 to $2,000, so more seen my colleagues from the other side when we take up a tax bill—don’t we parents can claim it. It is in the bill. ever come here and talk about the need

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00058 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.085 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8131 to rev up the economy or about the Last month, a group of Alaskans ter, a Democrat, or Secretary Mattis, a fact that 11⁄2, 2 percent growth, which is came to DC to testify before Senator great Marine general, they have all what we have had for almost the last 13 MURKOWSKI’s Energy and Natural Re- consistently emphasized this point: years, is not good for the country. I sources Committee about the impor- Making America the world’s energy su- think, unfortunately, a lot of them be- tance to America, to Alaska, and to perpower will help with jobs, will help lieve in this idea of the new normal— our communities of the energy provi- with our economy, and it will dramati- that America hitting at 11⁄2, 2-percent sion in this bill. cally help our Nation’s national secu- GDP growth is America hitting on all Matthew Rexford, who lives in rity. cylinders. Don’t believe it. Kaktovik, AK, which is a village that Let me conclude by telling a story We talk about GDP growth. What is is actually in the Arctic National Wild- that really emphasizes this point. that? It is really a proxy for the health life Refuge, provided riveting testi- Last year, I attended the Halifax of the U.S. economy. It is a proxy for mony. Let me quote from that testi- International Security Forum. Na- the American dream. In the last 10 mony: tional security leaders throughout the years, that economy has been sick. For My fellow Inupiat and I firmly believe that world attended. I was in a meeting millions of Americans, the American attempts to permanently block development with a great national security leader of dream, which is based on a strong in the 100—an area intentionally NOT des- this body, Senator JOHN MCCAIN, and American economy, has been a mirage. ignated as wilderness because of its oil and we were meeting with a senior-level We have to change this. This should be gas potential—is a slap in the face to our region and its people. It’s exactly the same Russian dissident. a bipartisan issue. Getting back to tra- We asked him at the end of the meet- ditional levels of 3 percent or higher thing as saying ‘‘It’s okay for everyone else in this country to have a THRIVING econ- ing: What more can we do in our coun- GDP growth should be something 100 omy, but you can’t have one at all.’’ try to help push back against the Putin Senators agree on. This bill is going to To you people living on the North regime and the activities that it is un- help us do that. dertaking to undermine U.S. interests Finally, I would like to talk about Slope and you people living in Kaktovik: Sorry, you can’t do it. around the world and in our own coun- something in the tax bill that will try? What more can we do? greatly benefit my State and our coun- Matthew went on to talk about how responsible oil and gas development He looked at us and said: The No. 1 try; that is, opening the 1002 section of thing that you can do is to produce the nonwilderness Arctic National supports local communities by providing jobs, business opportunities, and more American energy. Wildlife Refuge for American energy Let me repeat that. In terms of na- development. A lot of my colleagues on infrastructure investments, like schools and hospitals and clinics— tional security, the No. 1 thing that we the other side of the aisle have talked can do is to produce more American en- about this, but I am going to tell you things that most communities in America have in abundance. We don’t ergy. We do it more responsibly and this. I can’t begin to describe the ela- with the highest environmental stand- tion that will be felt by many—so have those in abundance in my great State. ards of any place in the world. Opening many—in my State when this passes. the 1002 area in using those high stand- The vast majority of Alaskans support He said that the industry ‘‘has moved our people away from third-world liv- ards—the world’s highest standards— this provision and have supported it for with the most advanced technology, decades. Hundreds, if not thousands, of ing conditions—we refuse to go backward in time. It has provided other will produce more American energy for Alaskans have worked tirelessly to get the betterment of my State, my con- it passed since the 1002 area was set basic services most Americans may stituents, and for the whole country. aside by this body in 1980 for possible take for granted’’ that communities We are on the cusp of passing a bill energy development. like his don’t have. Don’t believe all the rhetoric about Increasing domestic energy produc- that will put more money in the hands ‘‘Oh, that area is off-limits.’’ That area tion will not only be good for my State of the middle class, grow our economy, is actually on-limits. In 1980, the Con- and for communities like Kaktovik, and fulfill a 40-year-long dream for gress said: We know there is a lot of en- but it will also boost our country’s Alaska. The might of America has always ergy there, and we should look at the economy, and—this is a very important opportunity to explore it. Congress, point—it will strengthen America’s na- been and will always be in the inge- come back and make the call someday. tional security. nuity of our people—the ability of Hundreds, thousands of my constitu- My colleague from Maryland, for Americans to make decisions for them- ents, my fellow Alaskans—and I know whom I have a lot of respect, just selves, to live their lives as they see some are in the Gallery right now, talked about how this is going to hurt fit, to build, to grow, and to make a right above me—have been working on our national security. I couldn’t dis- better tomorrow for the next genera- this for decades, and I want to thank agree with him more. Producing more tion. all of them. But we have been stopped. energy responsibly—oil, natural gas, The American dream does not have a We have been repeatedly stopped. You renewables—and making the United price tag, but it can be stymied. It can are seeing some of the arguments, States the world’s energy superpower be stymied and stunted by an over- many of which are truth-challenged. So once again will dramatically increase bearing Federal Government that I am being polite to all of my col- our Nation’s national security. This is wants to hinder the freedom of the in- leagues. something that we should all agree on. dividual and an overbearing Federal Year after year, we have tried. The I have served in the Marines for over Government that crushes economic last time that we made a big effort in two decades, and I have served as a hope and opportunity through overtax- this, my colleagues on the other side of U.S. Assistant Secretary of State, ation or overregulation. It does this by the aisle killed this provision in 2005. It whose portfolio included global energy telling someone like Matthew Rexford, was a crushing evening in 2005 when issues. I have seen how energy can be who is from a small village more than this provision did not pass. It was a used as a tool for good, productive di- 5,000 miles from here, that he and his crushing evening for the late, great plomacy and for troublesome power people cannot make better lives for Senator Ted Stevens, particularly grabs by our Nation’s foes. When we themselves and for their children by when then-Senate Minority Leader don’t have to import energy from coun- developing resources on their own land. Harry Reid said that killing the ANWR tries that don’t like us or when we That is going to end tonight. At long provision and beating Ted Stevens was have the opportunity to actually ex- last, that is going to change, and the ‘‘one of the joys of my life.’’ That is port energy—American energy—to our vast majority of Alaskans—Democrats from the former Senate minority and allies, this dramatically strengthens and Republicans, Native and non-Na- majority leader. our Nation’s national security. tive—are going to celebrate. I believe, Voting for the provision to unlock The Presiding Officer and I both sit when the American people realize and ANWR tonight will be one of the joys on the Armed Services Committee. We experience the positive benefits of this of my life, and I am certain that Ted have heard for years from the Depart- bill through stronger economic growth, Stevens will be joyfully watching from ment of Defense’s military and civilian better jobs, and more take-home pay, above, smiling. leaders. Whether he be Secretary Car- that they are going to celebrate too. I

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.086 S19DEPT1 S8132 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 urge my colleagues to vote for this his- Senate proposal from 1993. We took icit? Do we end up with a balanced toric legislation. RomneyCare from 2006, and we in- budget? Do we end up with a surplus? I I yield the floor. cluded it in the Affordable Care Act be- asked those four questions. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- cause it was a market-based approach Twenty years later, as we took up ator from Delaware. to making sure that everybody who tax reform here in the U.S. Senate, I Mr. CARPER. Mr. President, it is a didn’t get coverage from their employ- asked the same four questions. Is it pleasure to be on the floor tonight with ers and who were not eligible for Med- fair? Does it foster economic growth? my friend the Senator from Alaska. icaid and were not eligible for Medicare Does it simplify the Tax Code? What The Navy salutes the Marine Corps and could get coverage. does it do to the budget or to the def- salutes him for his service before. We see in this legislation before us icit situation that we face? Those are Now I just want to follow up on a tonight not just changes to the Tax the four questions. couple of things that he mentioned. He Code but also a further effort to desta- Others have already talked about need not stay on the floor if he doesn’t bilize the exchanges, which is some- fairness. Let me just say that when you want to, but he is more than welcome thing that the current administration look at what is going to happen in the to as he spent a little bit of time criti- spends a lot of time trying to do. It is first couple years after the passage of cizing the individual mandate. a Republican idea. It is a market-based this legislation, lower income folks, Harry Truman used to say that the approach. They happen to be good families, are going to get a tax cut too. only thing new in the world is the his- ideas. They happen to work in Massa- It is not just the wealthy; low-income tory that we forgot and never learned. chusetts, and they could work in the 49 families will get a tax cut, too, for a So I just want to take a minute and other States if we didn’t have an ad- couple of years. Families making talk about the history of the individual ministration and my colleagues here in $30,000 will benefit. They will end up mandate. this body and in the House who were lowering taxes for the first 2 years The individual mandate was not in- trying to destabilize the exchanges. after the implementation of this legis- vented by Barack Obama. ObamaCare I hope that when this legislation lation. After 3 or 4 years, families mak- was never invented by Barack Obama— passes and we repeal the individual ing $40,000 or less will be on the losing the idea for exchanges in all 50 States mandate that we will not just repeal it. side. After 5 years, families making and the sliding scale tax credit to buy Why do we have it in the first place? It $50,000 will be on the losing side. After down the cost of healthcare in those is to make sure that young, healthy 8 or 9 years, families making as much exchanges. The idea to have an indi- Americans are going to be getting cov- as $75,000 will not be paying less taxes, vidual mandate so that everybody has erage in the exchanges. You can’t just they will actually be paying more to buy healthcare and that if you are have sick and elderly people in the ex- taxes. not eligible for Medicaid or Medicare, changes. You have to have some young, Meanwhile, folks whose income is you need to get healthcare and that, if healthy people in there too. That is half a million, $1 million, or more, for you don’t, there is a fine was not why we have the individual mandate. If the most part will realize very substan- Barack Obama’s idea. The idea that we are going to get rid of it, we need to tial reductions in their taxes—very employers of a certain size and with a replace it with something that works substantial reductions—and as that in- certain number of employees have to at least as effectively. That is one of come goes up, the greater those reduc- provide healthcare coverage for their the things that we need to work on in tions will be in their tax obligation. folks was not a Barack Obama idea. our going forward between now and Some people ask: Is that fair? It de- The notion that the insurance compa- 2019 when the individual mandate is re- pends on whom you ask. If you happen nies could not deny coverage to folks pealed under this legislation. to ask people who are making $30,000 or who had preexisting conditions was not I had the privilege of serving as the $40,000 or $50,000 a year, maybe not. It an idea that was invented by Barack Governor of my State of Delaware for 8 is fair for a while but not for long Obama. years. During those 8 years, we cut enough. ObamaCare with those five provi- taxes in 7 out of the 8 years. We also I mentioned the 8 years I served as sions—exchanges in every State, a slid- balanced our budgets for 8 years in a Governor of our State and how we bal- ing scale tax credit to buy down the row. We paid down some of our debt. anced our budget to pay down debt and cost of the care, the individual man- We earned AAA credit ratings for the got an AAA credit rating. More jobs date to make sure that everybody is first time in the State’s history. We were created in those 8 years than any getting coverage, the employer man- still have them. For those 8 years, we 8 years in the history of the State of date by which the employer has to had a general assembly whose majority Delaware. I did not create any of them. cover the employees, the prohibition was Republican in the House and whose I did not create one of them. I helped against insurance companies in their majority was Democrat in the Senate. create a nurturing environment for job not providing coverage for those with Do you know what we did? We actually creation in our State so that little preexisting conditions—had its origin worked together. We worked together businesses could get started and grow from right here in the U.S. Senate in in that we used sound budgeting prac- into bigger businesses and bigger busi- 1993—right here in 1993. tices, and we used sound economic nesses could make a profit and hire The legislation was introduced by a analyses and forecasts. We worked to- more people. The Tax Code is an impor- Republican Senator from Rhode Island, gether, but neither side got everything tant ingredient in nurturing an envi- Chafee. It was cosponsored by 22 other it wanted. ronment for job creation and job pres- Republican Senators, including the In Delaware, we have something that ervation—not the only ingredient but chairman of the Finance Committee— we call the Delaware Way. I describe it an important ingredient. one of the people I most admire here in with the letter C—four Cs—commu- Senator CARDIN stood right in front this body. nicate, compromise, collaborate, civil- of me a little while ago and talked Those five ideas didn’t go anywhere ity. That is it. That is the Delaware about how important it is to have cer- in 1993, but do you know who took Way—communicate, compromise, col- tainty and predictability. That is al- them? A Governor of Massachusetts laborate, and use some civility. We most as important as the tax rates, to took those five ideas and said: Maybe don’t do much of that around here, and actually know what we are going to we could use those five ideas to cover we are the worse for it. face and not face, the uncertainty of everybody in the State of Massachu- During those years that I was privi- rates going up or down and the rules setts. Governor Mitt Romney created leged to be Governor and we cut taxes changing in the years to come. But I RomneyCare. Do you know what? For for 7 out of the 8 years, I would read would like to run through a short list the most part, it worked. It covered each tax proposal with four questions. of other ingredients needed in the nur- just about everybody there. Initially, it One, is it fair? Two, does it foster eco- turing environment that I don’t believe had problems with affordability, but it nomic growth or impede it? Three, does we are addressing in these changes to has done better over time. it simplify the Tax Code or make it the Tax Code. When we worked on the Affordable more complex? Four, what does it do to One is commonsense regulations, reg- Care Act, we took that Republican the deficit? Do we end up with a def- ulations that protect us, protect our

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.087 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8133 health, our environment, and do so in a We don’t do any of that in this legisla- economic recovery. Just look at where way that is cost-effective. tion. we were in 2008 and 2009. For the last 8 Another way to create a nurturing In terms of economic growth and job years, we have had economic growth environment is to make sure that we creation, what we are told by most and job creation for 8 consecutive are producing, out of our high schools, economists is, sadly, a lot of companies years. I don’t think we have ever seen colleges, universities, and community will make extra money from—realize that kind of sustained economic colleges, people who can read, write, greater profits from the changes in the growth in the history of our country. think, use math and have technology Tax Code, the majority of them. Ac- Instead of paying down debt after 8 skills in science and engineering. The cording not to me but to economists years of economic growth and job cre- inability to come out of these schools who are a lot smarter than I, a good ation, we actually, last year, increased and go to work in the millions of jobs deal of that money is not going to fur- the deficit by $666 billion. With this that are going unfilled these days is be- ther investments in plant and equip- legislation, we are going to add an- cause the skill sets that are demanded ment, not into their workforce, it will other roughly $2 trillion to our debt by employers for these millions of jobs be turned into dividends and stock over the next 10 years. are not met by the people who are buybacks and not to create the kind of This is a missed opportunity, folks. looking for work, for the most part, ex- economic growth we all want. It doesn’t have to be this way. There cept for about 800,000 people—the Let me talk a minute about the third are good ideas in this legislation. The DACA folks who fill 800,000 of those 3 question I always ask about tax reform corporate tax rate is too high. Let’s or 4 million jobs that are unfilled. proposals; that is, does it simplify the bring it down. I am for that. The stand- What is another ingredient? Access Tax Code or make it more complex? ard deduction ought to be doubled. I to capital, the ability of a business to During our markup, our vote, and de- think Democrats are for that. The get money, to raise money to be able to bate in the Finance Committee on the child tax credit ought to be increased, invest in plant and equipment and in proposals, one of my colleagues—I maybe doubled, made refundable to employees in the workforce. think it was Senator MCCASKILL—had a help lower income families too. I am Another is access to foreign markets stack about this tall of the Federal Tax for that. The capital gains rate main- to be able to sell the products or the Code. One of our expert witnesses from tained where it is—I am for that. The services we provide to other countries the Joint Tax Committee was asked: repatriation of overseas profits—I am around the world, get into those mar- Will this legislation that is before us for that. There are a lot of things I kets. tonight actually make that stack of think could actually serve as a founda- Another is energy costs. My col- books that make up the Tax Code—is it tion on which we could come to an league from Alaska said in his com- going to make it smaller? agreement on bipartisan legislation. As ments that one of the things we ought He said: No, quite the opposite—it is far as I am concerned, we never really to be in America is the superpower of going to make it larger. Now, the idea had a fair chance. energy. Who invented nuclear energy? of doubling the standard deduction, en- I will close with an African proverb. We did. We are the Saudi Arabia of abling more people to not have to My friend Senator SCOTT is about to coal. We are the Saudi Arabia of nat- itemize their taxes—that makes the follow me, and he has heard me say ural gas. We create, as far as I know, as Tax Code simpler. That is a good idea. this before. The old African proverb much electricity from wind and solar But overall, when you look at all the says: If you want to go fast, travel as I think any nation on Earth, and we other changes in this legislation, that alone. If you want to go far, travel to- need to do a whole lot more, and we stack which represents the Tax Code is gether. can. not going to go down; ultimately it is If you want to go fast, travel alone. If With regard to healthcare costs, we going to go up. you want to go far, travel together. We pay way too much money for Those are not my words but the testi- should have traveled this road to- healthcare in this country. Actually, mony from the Joint Tax Committee. gether. If we had, we would have maybe we have a pretty good idea of how to Lastly, what is going to be the effect some short-term pain but long-term bring it down. One of those good ideas of these tax changes? What is going to gain. But I fear that with this legisla- is the exchanges, and if we stop under- be the effect on the budget deficit? And tion, it will be just the opposite. There mining them and degrading them and here is where I think we really missed will be some short-term gain but I fig- destabilizing them, they would actu- the boat. When Bill Clinton became ure, in the long run, long-term pain. ally work like they do in Massachu- President in 1993, we were in a deficit. With that, Mr. President, I yield the setts and a bunch of other States. We were in a recession, and he became floor and will pass it on to my friend Public safety is a key ingredient President. Eight years later, when he from South Carolina. among the forces and factors that are turned the reins over to George W. Mr. HATCH addressed the Chair. helpful in creating that nurturing envi- Bush—in those 8 years, more jobs were The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ronment. created than in any 8-year period in ator from Utah. Investing in research and develop- the history of the United States. On Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I have ment that could be commercialized in top of that, in the last 4 years of that been listening to this debate for a long terms of jobs and economic oppor- administration—1998, 1999, 2000 and time, and I have to admit it has been tunity is hugely important. 2001—we had a balanced budget and a interesting, but it has been prolonged There is also protecting intellectual surplus. When the reins of leadership way beyond where it should have been. property, protecting against cyber at- were turned over to the next adminis- My friends on the other side make tacks, transportation, infrastructure. tration, George W. Bush’s, I think CBO much about this process, demeaning Earlier this year, the Nation’s Society was forecasting a budget surplus of at the Members and staff who really put of Civil Engineers evaluated our trans- least $5 billion, probably more. There it together. portation infrastructure in this coun- was a concern that we were actually This bill was marked up in the Fi- try, and again this year, D—‘‘d’’ as in growing the surplus too fast. nance Committee. It is the first rec- dog—because our roads, highways, and Well, it didn’t take too long for the onciliation bill to be processed in com- bridges are in deplorable shape in many surpluses to be eliminated, and when mittee in the Senate in over 12 years. parts of this country. Did we invest that administration came to an end, we During that period, Democrats held any money in that in this tax bill? If I were in the worst economic recession power for 8 of those years; Republicans, had $1 trillion to invest in this country since the Great Depression. We called 4 of those years. to strengthen our economy, I would put it the great recession. We went from 4 The reconciliation bill that made up it in infrastructure, roads, highways, years of surpluses to the worst econ- part of the Affordable Care Act never bridges, ports, airports, broadband, just omy since 1930. That is what Barack went through the Finance Committee. deploying broadband in vast areas of Obama and Joe Biden and a new Con- That reconciliation bill never went the country and rural areas of the gress in 2009 inherited. through any real Senate process. To be country where we don’t have access to I know some of my colleagues think fair, the Affordable Care Act repeal bill the internet. That is what I would do. that there has not been any kind of that my side proposed didn’t go

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.089 S19DEPT1 S8134 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 through the Finance Committee either. Mr. BROWN. I want to state my ob- That analysis shows that middle-in- As difficult as it was, as chairman, I jection. There is objection, Mr. Presi- come taxpayers are winners. That non- put out a chairman’s mark, modified dent. I would like to state my objec- partisan data shows—sorry, my writing it, permitted debate and amendments, tion. May I state the reason for my ob- is not too good here—well, it shows and put it to a vote, all in conformity jection? that they are winners, and that is the with committee rules. We had a full The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- clear impact of this bill. That data cuts Senate debate, amendments, and votes. ator from Utah has the floor. through the rhetorical fog generated So I don’t want to hear tonight or at Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, then I by my friends on the other side. any time that the process deteriorated. will withhold the unanimous consent It didn’t deteriorate. request. My friends on the other side focus on Mr. BROWN. Will Senator HATCH The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- the year 2027—10 years from now— yield for a question? ator from Utah has the floor. when, guess what, that is the year past Mr. HATCH. No, not just yet. I am Mr. BROWN. Mr. President, may I the sunset of tax cuts on the individual going to finish these remarks. state the reason for my objection? side. Focus on the years the cuts are in I am going to insert in the RECORD an The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- effect, and you will see the middle analysis of winners and losers. The ator from Utah has the floor. class are really winners. There is no analysis is dated today. It was pro- Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I have question about it if you focus on it. duced by the nonpartisan Joint Com- just withdrawn the request. I will in- mittee on Taxation. I ask unanimous consent that this re- Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- sert it later when it is more expedi- port, ‘‘A Distribution of Returns by the tious to do it. sent to have it printed in the RECORD. Size of the Tax Change for the Con- The announcements I have been talk- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there ference Agreement for H.R. 1, the ‘Tax ing about is dated today, and it was objection? Cuts and Jobs Act,’ ’’ by the Joint Com- produced by the nonpartisan Joint Mr. BROWN. Reserving the right to mittee on Taxation be printed in the object, Mr. President, I would just like Committee on Taxation. I would like RECORD. to ask Senator HATCH a question. to put it in the RECORD. We will do Mr. HATCH. I have the floor. that, if we can. I hope my colleague There being no objection, the mate- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there will allow me to do that, and I will ask rial was ordered to be printed in the objection? consent that it be put in the RECORD. RECORD, as follows: A DISTRIBUTION OF RETURNS BY THE SIZE OF THE TAX CHANGE FOR THE CONFERENCE AGREEMENT FOR H.R. 1, THE ‘‘TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT’’ [Calendar Year 2019]

Percentage of Returns

INCOME CATERGORY (2) Tax Decrease Tax Change Tax Increase Greater Less than Greater Than $500 $100–$500 $100 $100–$500 Than $500

Less than $10,000 ...... 0.7% 3.5% 95.6% 0.1% 0.1% $10,000 to $20,000 ...... 5.6% 38.9% 52.4% 0.4% 2.7% $20,000 to $30,000 ...... 17.2% 30.5% 47.1% 1.0% 4.1% $30,000 to $40,000 ...... 30.1% 32.0% 32.4% 1.9% 3.7% $40,000 to $50,000 ...... 51.2% 21.7% 20.2% 2.8% 4.2% $50,000 to $75,000 ...... 67.7% 14.7% 10.2% 2.8% 4.6% $75,000 to $100,000 ...... 77.8% 10.4% 4.1% 3.0% 4.8% $100,000 to $200,000 ...... 87.0% 4.1% 1.7% 2.0% 5.1% $200,000 to $500,000 ...... 93.0% 1.8% 0.6% 0.9% 3.7% $500,000 to $1,000,000 ...... 93.5% 0.3% 0.1% 0.3% 5.9% $1,000,000 and over ...... 85.3% 0.3% 0.2% 0.3% 13.8%

Total, All Taxpayers ...... 48.3% 17.2% 28.9% 1.7% 3.8% Source: Joint Committee on Taxation Detail may not add to total due to rounding. (1) This table is a distributional analysis of the proposal in revenue table JCX–67–17, excluding the following sections: I. Tax Reform for Individuals: D.4.–.7., E.1D.–E.2., F., and 1.2–1.13. Under section H., the distributional analysis does not income the effect of the cost-sharing reductions and change in Medicaid spending. (2) The income concept used to place tax returns into income categories is adjusted gross income (AGI) plus: [1] tax-exempt interest, [2] employer contributions for health plans and life insurance, [3] employer share of FICA tax, [4] worker’s compensation, [5] nontaxable Social Security benefits, [6] insurance value of Medicare benefits, [7] alternative minimum tax preference items, [8] individual share of business taxes, and [9] excluded income of U.S. citizens living abroad. Categories are measured at 2017 levels. (3) The categories reflecting the size of tax change are indexed for inflation.

A DISTRIBUTION OF RETURNS BY THE SIZE OF THE TAX CHANGE FOR THE CONFERENCE AGREEMENT FOR H.R. 1, THE ‘‘TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT’’ [Calendar Year 2021]

Percentage of Returns

INCOME CATEGORY (2) Tax Decrease Tax Change Tax Increase Greater Less than Greater Than $500 $100–$500 $100 $100–$500 Than $500

Less than $10,000 ...... 0.4% 2.4% 96.8% 0.1% 0.2% $10,000 to $20,000 ...... 5.8% 33.2% 55.1% 0.7% 5.1% $20,000 to $30,000 ...... 14.6% 27.7% 49.0% 1.4% 7.2% $30,000 to $40,000 ...... 25.2% 28.9% 36.4% 2.5% 7 0% $40,000 to $50,000 ...... 45.6% 21.2% 22.5% 3.3% 7.4% $50,000 to $75,000 ...... 61.7% 15.2% 12.3% 3.6% 7.2% $75,000 to $100,000 ...... 72.2% 12.2% 5.0% 3.9% 6.7% $100,000 to $200,000 ...... 82.4% 5.2% 2.1% 3.0% 7.3% $200,000 to $500,000 ...... 88.5% 2.5% 1.1% 1.8% 6.1% $500,000 to $1,000,000 ...... 90.5% 0.4% 0.3% 0.4% 8.4% $1,000,000 and over ...... 80.1% 0.3% 0.2% 0.5% 18.8%

Total, All Taxpayers ...... 44.8% 16.2% 30.5% 2.3% 6.2% Source: Joint Committee on Taxation Detail may not add to total due to rounding. (1) This table is a distributional analysis of the proposal in revenue table JCX–67–17, excluding the following sections: I. Tax Reform for Individuals: D.4.–D.7., E.1.–E.2., F., and I.2.–1.13. Under section H., the distributional analysis does not income the effect of the cost-sharing reductions and change in Medicaid spending. (2) The income concept used to place tax returns into income categories is adjusted gross income (AGI) plus: [1] tax-exempt interest, [2] employer contributions for health plans and life insurance, [3] employer share of FICA tax, [4] worker’s compensation, [5] nontaxable Social Security benefits, [6] insurance value of Medicare benefits, [7] alternative minimum tax preference items, [8] individual share of business taxes, and [9] excluded income of U.S. citizens living abroad. Categories are measured at 2017 levels. (3) The categories reflecting the size of tax change are indexed for inflation.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:15 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.090 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8135 A DISTRIBUTION OF RETURNS BY THE SIZE OF THE TAX CHANGE FOR THE CONFERENCE AGREEMENT FOR H.R. 1, THE ‘‘TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT’’ [Calendar Year 2023]

Percentage of Returns

INCOME CATEGORY (2) Tax Decrease Tax Change Tax Increase Greater Less than Greater Than $500 $100–$500 $100 $100–$500 Than $500

Less than $10,000 ...... 0.2% 2.0% 96.9% 0.6% 0.3% $10,000 to $20,000 ...... 5.1% 29.2% 56.4% 4.3% 5.0% $20,000 to $30,000 ...... 13.1% 26.6% 50.6% 2.7% 7.0% $30,000 to $40,000 ...... 19.8% 28.6% 40.3% 3.7% 7.5% $40,000 to $50,000 ...... 39.9% 20.0% 27.2% 4.9% 8.0% $50,000 to $75,000 ...... 54.8% 15.2% 15.7% 5.5% 8.8% $75,000 to $100,000 ...... 63.1% 14.6% 7.4% 5.3% 9.7% $100,000 to $200,000 ...... 73.6% 6.4% 3.1% 4.6% 12.3% $200,000 to $500,000 ...... 70.1% 3.6% 2.1% 2.8% 13.4% $500,000 to $1,000,000 ...... 83.0% 0.7% 0.4% 0.8% 15.2% $1,000,000 and over ...... 65.8% 0.7% 0.7% 0.8% 32.0% Total, All Taxpayers ...... 39.7% 16.0% 32.2% 4.0% 8.1% Source: Joint Committee on Taxation Detail may not add to total due to rounding. (1) This table is a distributional analysis of the proposal in revenue table JCX–67–17, excluding the following sections: I. Tax Reform for Individuals D.4.–D.7., E.1.–E.2., F., and I.2.–I.13. Under section H., the distributional analysis does not income the effect of the cost-sharing reductions and change in Medicaid spending. (2) The income concept used to place tax returns into income categories is adjusted gross income (AGI) plus: [1] tax-exempt interest, [2] employer contributions for health plans and life insurance, [3] employer share of FICA tax, [4] worker’s compensation, [5] nontaxable Social Security benefits, [6] insurance value of Medicare benefits, [7] alternative minimum tax preference items, [8] individual share of business taxes, and [9] excluded income of U.S. citizens living abroad. Categories are measured at 2017 levels. (3) The categories reflecting the size of tax change are indexed for inflation.

A DISTRIBUTION OF RETURNS BY THE SIZE OF THE TAX CHANGE FOR THE CONFERENCE AGREEMENT FOR H.R. 1, THE ‘‘TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT’’ [Calendar Year 2025]

Percentage of Returns

INCOME CATEGORY (2) Tax Decrease Tax Change Tax Increase Greater Less than Greater Than $500 $100–500 $100 $100–500 Than $500

Less than $10,000 ...... 0.3% 3.3% 95.6% 0.6% 0.3% $10,000 to $20,000 ...... 6.1% 29.4% 55.2% 4.3% 4.9% $20,000 to $30,000 ...... 13.8% 25.8% 50.0% 3.4% 7.0% $30,000 to $40,000 ...... 19.7% 26.9% 41.8% 4.3% 7.4% $40,000 to $50,000 ...... 38.9% 18.2% 29.0% 5.6% 8.3% $50,000 to $75,000 ...... 53.0% 15.2% 16.2% 6.2% 9.5% $75,000 to $100,000 ...... 61.4% 14.5% 7.3% 6.0% 10.9% $100,000 to $200,000 ...... 70.7% 6.8% 3.1% 5.1% 14.4% $200,000 to $500,000 ...... 75.1% 3.8% 1.8% 3.3% 16.0% $500,000 to $1,000,000 ...... 80.2% 0.8% 0.6% 0.8% 17.6% $1,000,000 and over ...... 63.3% 0.5% 0.3% 0.8% 35.0% Total, All Taxpayers ...... 38.9% 15.8% 31.9% 4.4% 8.9% Source: Joint Committee on Taxation Detail may not add to total due to rounding. (1) This table is a distributional analysis of the proposal in revenue table JCX–67–17, excluding the following sections: I. Tax Reform for Individuals: D.4.–D.7., E.1–E.2., F., and 1.2.–1.13. Under section H., the distributional analysis does not income the effect of the cost-sharing reductions and change in Medicaid spending. (2) The income concept used to place tax returns into income categories is adjusted gross income (AGI) plus: [1] tax-exempt interest, [2] employer contributions for health plans and life insurance, [3] employer share of FICA tax, [4] worker’s compensation, [5] nontaxable Social Security benefits, [6] insurance value of Medicare benefits, [7] alternative minimum tax preference items, [8] individual share of business taxes, and [9] excluded income of U.S. citizens living abroad. Categories are measured at 2017 levels. (3) The categories reflecting the size of tax change are indexed for inflation.

A DISTRIBUTION OF RETURNS BY THE SIZE OF THE TAX CHANGE FOR THE CONFERENCE AGREEMENT FOR H.R. 1, THE ‘‘TAX CUTS AND JOBS ACT’’ [Calendar Year 2027]

Percentage of Returns Income Tax Decrease Tax Increase Category (2) Tax Change Greater Less than Greater Than $500 $100–$500 $100 $100–$500 Than $500

Less than $10,000 ...... 0.3% 1.1% 96.6% 1.8% 0.2% $10,000 to $20,000 ...... 1.9% 1.4% 72.9% 19.8% 3.9% $20,000 to $30,000 ...... 3.4% 2.3% 72.0% 17.2% 5.1% $30,000 to $40,000 ...... 4.9% 4.8% 69.4% 14.6% 6.3% $40,000 to $50,000 ...... 6.2% 7.0% 65.6% 14.6% 6.6% $50,000 to $75,000 ...... 6.0% 10.9% 61.5% 15.0% 6.6% $75,000 to $100,000 ...... 8.9% 17.8% 54.2% 13.5% 5.6% $100,000 to $200,000 ...... 16.2% 24.2% 34.1% 17.8% 7.7% $200,000 to $500,000 ...... 32.8% 18.1% 15.3% 17.6% 16.2% $500,000 to $1,000,000 ...... 54.7% 7.9% 4.5% 7.3% 25.6% $1,000,000 and over ...... 58.2% 2.4% 1.1% 1.9% 36.4% Total, All Taxpayers ...... 8.6% 10.4% 59.9% 14.8% 6.3% Source: Joint Committee on Taxation Detail may not add to total due to rounding. (1) This table is a distributional analysis of the proposal in revenue table JCX–67–17, excluding the following sections: I. Tax Reform for Individuals: D.4.–D.7., E.1.–E.2., F., and I.2.–I.13. Under section H., the distributional analysis does not income the effect of the cost-sharing reductions and change in Medicaid spending. (2) The income concept used to place tax returns into income categories is adjusted gross income (AGI) plus: [1] tax-exempt interest, [2] employer contributions for health plans and life insurance, [3] employer share of FICA tax, [4] worker’s compensation, [5] nontaxable Social Security benefits, [6] insurance value of Medicare benefits, [7] alternative minimum tax preference items, [8] individual share of business taxes, and [9] excluded income of U.S. citizens living abroad. Categories are measured at 2017 levels. (3) The categories reflecting the size of tax change are indexed for inflation.

Mr. HATCH. Mr. President, I yield bill. This is a historic night for Amer- I would like to spend a few minutes the floor. ica 31 years in the making. If you are clarifying some of the important The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- watching this debate at home, you points, some of the misinformation ator from South Carolina. might be a little confused. As Demo- that is coming from the left. First, this Mr. SCOTT. Mr. President, we have crats and Republicans continue to talk is not a healthcare bill. Our friends on had an opportunity for the last several about the same bill using very different the left have suggested that somehow, hours to go back and forth to debate perspectives, folks must be wondering some way this bill will eliminate cov- the benefits or the negatives of this where is the truth. erage for millions and millions of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:15 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.017 S19DEPT1 S8136 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 Americans, and they will lose their from $6,300 to $12,000; for single-parent vote yes for an improved business cli- coverage. The only thing this bill actu- households from $9,300 to $18,000; and mate, and vote yes for a global com- ally does is it eliminates the penalty for two-earner households, we essen- petition where American companies for those folks who decide not to buy tially create a zero-percent tax bracket and American workers are winning. health insurance. In other words, this for folks living at the Federal poverty I yield the floor. bill reduces the tax burden on families level of $24,000. By doubling the stand- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. who are working paycheck to pay- ard deduction to $24,000, we have essen- FLAKE). The Senator from Oregon. check. One-third of the families who tially created a zero-percent tax brack- Mr. MERKLEY. Mr. President, one pay the penalty are families who make et. thing is for sure, this is not the peo- less than $25,000, and 80 percent of the The good news is, it gets better. For ple’s business. This is the business of folks who pay the penalty make less those folks with children in the house the powerful and privileged. Well, this than $50,000. Contrary to popular belief where your child tax credit used to be is really a bank heist. How big is this on the left, no one loses their insur- $1,000, now the child tax credit is $2,000, bank heist? Well, it is about $3 trillion ance, but they will have the option to with 70 percent of that amount being being delivered to the very richest do what is in their family’s best inter- refundable—an increase from what it Americans. Let’s add it up. Changing est, what is in the individual’s best in- used to be. the tax brackets for those who earn terest. So many folks on the other side have more than $200,000, $673 billion; chang- We have sought for ways to work talked about whether this is sim- ing the individual alternative min- with our friends on the other side be- plification, but when 95 out of 100 tax imum tax which only affects the very cause we know this legislation is not filers can simply use the standard de- wealthy, $637 billion; changing the es- about the Republican Party, it is not duction, it means that, yes, on the tate tax, $83 billion; changing the cor- about conservatives, nor is it about lib- back of a clean piece of paper, someone porate tax rate, most of which goes to erals. It is about Americans—Ameri- can determine their tax burden. This is the advantage of the wealthiest Ameri- cans who for too long have worked too good news. Of the 6 billion hours spent cans, $1.35 trillion; changing the cor- hard and have seen too little in their annually doing their taxes, we are porate AMT, $40 billion; and the pass- paychecks. going to cut that number down signifi- through legislation that favors the The government does not create jobs. cantly. wealthiest LLCs, $414 billion. Add it all No matter what either side says, we For our friends living in blue States up, and it is well over $3 trillion. There don’t create jobs, but we can, through where the SALT, State and local tax, it is—$3 trillion. It is $3 trillion for the this tax reform package, increase take- debate has been so important, we have very richest Americans. home pay by taking less out. Now, decided to sweeten the SALT solution Is that the middle-class tax cut? some may ask the question, What does by allowing a hybrid of either your Think about how much this is per per- that mean taking less out? Well, for property taxes or income taxes to be son here in the United States of Amer- used within that $10,000 threshold. your average, single parent in America ica. About $8,000 per person in America We have even made it easier through who makes the average income of is being taxed so they can give $3 tril- 529 plans to prepare and to pay for edu- lion to the very richest Americans. Is $41,000, as my good friend from Alaska cation, K–12, as well as college. already stated, that individual house- The one thing I will say that we have that a fair, square deal? hold will see about a 73-percent cut in heard a lot of from our friends on the What if we were to spend $3 trillion their taxes. Said differently, that other side—and you will hear more of on the middle class? What if we were to means an increase in their take-home it tonight—it is FEAR. It is an acro- do that? What if we were to invest a pay. nym that means false evidence appear- trillion dollars of it in infrastructure? Now, I was thinking about folks back ing real. It is not the truth, but fear It creates a lot of jobs today, and it at home in South Carolina—one person sells. It seems as though my friends on creates the foundation for a lot of jobs in particular—Sherrie, who is a single the other side have decided, if you just tomorrow and the year after. mother with two kids and trying to keep saying it, it must be true, and What if we were to spend a trillion start a new business. Here is an oppor- over and over and over—and we will dollars on healthcare? We could go a tunity to have just a little more mar- hear it more when I am finished—there long way in terms of greatly ampli- gin at the end of each pay period— are folks demonizing this legislation. fying the success and quality of the $1,300. These are real dollars, and my The facts are simple, and Senator work from our community health clin- friends on the left seem to suggest that CARDIN said it himself. I wrote it down ics—making sure, basically, that a 73-percent cut in the typical single- when he said it because I was like: healthcare is a fundamental, affordable parent household’s tax burden is not an Wow. That is a clear, concise, true right for every American. We can do a increase. statement. Senator CARDIN said major lot on healthcare with a trillion dol- Well, the story continues. For the av- tax relief for families, our bill. lars. erage family in America making We are on the verge of resetting What could we do, I ask my Repub- $73,000, they are looking at a tax cut of American competitiveness. By low- lican friends, with $1 trillion in edu- 58 percent—over $2,000 more in their ering our corporate tax rate, we will cation? How about spending $500 billion paycheck. When I talk to my friends allow the jobs of the future to be cre- to strengthen our K–12 system and an- who are typical Americans—Michelle ated here at home. With a 20-percent other $500 billion to strengthen and to and Joe living in South Carolina, work- cut in your qualified business income, make college affordable for every sin- ing hard, raising two beautiful kids— we will see small businesses prospering, gle American? having a 60-percent cut in their taxes is and when they prosper, they will hire This $3 trillion this bill gives to the real middle-class relief. more folks. When I was in the gym this richest Americans is the biggest bank This is a bill that delivers, and the past weekend, a small business owner heist not just in American history but good news is, only in about 7 or 8 who runs a battery company with in the history of the world, happening weeks, the average American will have seven employees said, on January 1, he here tonight and brought to us by the an answer to which side is right; is it is hiring a new person. powerful and the privileged. the left or is it the right? The fact is, A survey done of 7,000 manufacturers, This is absolutely unacceptable. they will be able to take a look in their the vast majority said that with this While the rich gloat over all the gold own paychecks and determine for tax cut, they will hire more people, they are piling up—3 trillion dollars’ themselves the benefits of this tax cut. they will increase wages, and they will worth—middle-class Americans get When we think about the things we improve benefits. This is good news coal in their stocking. This tax scam so should be working on to restore con- from a global perspective, this is good favors the wealthy that 83 percent of fidence that the average person has news from a small business perspective, the benefits goes to the richest 1 per- lost in the government, we do that by and this is good news from an indi- cent. Is that the middle-class bill? I making sure our tax proposal speaks to vidual perspective. don’t think so. the average family. So we do double It is time for us to complete the peo- This bill sends jobs overseas, hurting the standard deduction for individuals ple’s business and vote yes for tax cuts, middle-class Americans.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.092 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8137 This bill increases our national def- jobs overseas, destroying the founda- could have. Instead, we are voting on icit and our national debt, making it tion for success for millions of Amer- the most fiscally irresponsible bill that much harder to have programs that ican families. This money is going to I have ever voted on, adding $1.5 tril- provide a foundation for families to be used for stock buybacks and divi- lion to the debt that our children and thrive. dends, enhancing the wealth of the al- grandchildren will be responsible for, This bill destroys healthcare for 13 ready wealthy. That is why the experts all while doing next to nothing for mid- million Americans. Analyst after ana- say this is not going to create a phe- dle-class families. lyst says it will also raise insurance nomenal growth in our economy, a phe- This is not the way we are supposed premiums for everyone else who buys nomenal number of jobs. to make policy in this country. The healthcare. Wow, talk about clobbering I would like to see us fight for mid- bill that is on the floor tonight is here the middle class by destroying dle-class Americans, fight for infra- without any hearings. We didn’t hear healthcare for 13 million people and structure and jobs, fight for from a single expert on the specifics of raising the premiums on healthcare for healthcare, and fight for education. the bill—not a single economist, not a everyone else buying insurance. These are the foundations for thriving single small business owner, not a sin- So over here, we have the pile of families, but that is not what we have gle middle-class family. It is simply gold—$3 trillion for the richest Ameri- tonight, and that is why anyone who wrong. cans—and over here, we have the loss believes in government of, by, and for I urge my colleagues to vote no and of jobs shipped overseas. We have the the people should defeat this bill. to defeat this bill. increased price of healthcare. We have The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- I yield the floor. 13 million American people losing their ator from Michigan. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- healthcare. Mr. PETERS. Mr. President, tonight ator from Maryland. Then we have the second phase of the the Senate will vote on a tax bill that Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Mr. President, we Republican plan, which was announced will provide large corporations and need bipartisan tax reform. We should by the Speaker of the House last week. wealthy individuals with a massive tax simplify our Tax Code. It has been This week we pass $3 trillion for the cut. The bill will result in well over $1 filled over many years with all sorts of wealthiest Americans, but what do we trillion in debt that will be passed on junk that was put there by high-pow- do after that? We go after Medicaid, to our children and our grandchildren. ered lobbyists, rather than because of Medicare, and Social Security. That is The bill will result in dramatically the public interests. the plan we heard from the Speaker of lower taxes for people who earn their Unfortunately, this bill has nothing the House. living off of stocks and investments, to do with tax reform. In fact, it is This is a diabolical bill. This is an for people who inherit millions of dol- hard to believe you could take a tax abomination in a government of, by, lars from their parents, and for the code that is already stacked in favor of and for the people. CEOs of multinational companies. By the very wealthy and the very powerful How does it come to pass that we the time the bill is fully implemented, and make it even more favorable to the even have this bill under consider- it will lead to higher taxes and higher very wealthy and very powerful, but ation? I will tell you how. It is a cycle healthcare costs for millions of hard- that is exactly what this Republican of campaign corruption. working Americans who show up each tax plan does. Megabillionaires fund the campaigns and every day to do their job and to Exhibit A about how this has nothing for the Senate and then have people earn a living. to do with tax reform has to do with come in here to pass this bank heist for This bill we are voting on today was the carried interest loophole. Many the billionaires. That is the cycle— written in secret in an entirely par- may recall that during the last cam- Citizens United allowing unlimited tisan fashion, without input from near- paign, whenever Candidate Trump funds invested by third-party cam- ly half of the Senate. talked about the need to reform the paigns. Corruption in campaigns pro- But it didn’t have to be this way. If Tax Code, what was his No. 1 example? duced this tax scam, this bank heist, we wanted to give middle-class families He said: We have to get rid of the car- this abomination against the people of a real tax cut, we could have. Instead, ried interest loophole for hedge fund the United States of America. we are voting on a bill that has bene- managers. Go back and run the tape. Now, Oregon has about 1 percent of fits for middle-class families that will Every time somebody asked him what the population in the United States. So expire just to pay for permanent tax was broken about the Tax Code, that is what would be their share if we would, cuts given to multinational corpora- what he said. In fact, he said: instead, invest that $3 trillion in infra- tions. The hedge fund guys are getting away with structure, healthcare, and education? If we wanted to reform the Tax Code, murder. They’re making a tremendous For Oregon, that would be $30 billion. to take away loopholes for offshoring amount of money. They have to pay taxes. That is 30,000 $1 million grants to in- our jobs, and to help create good-pay- That was Candidate Donald Trump. vest in infrastructure that is needed all ing jobs here in the United States, we Well, here we are. Shortly, we are over our State, to invest in more could have. Instead, we are voting on a going to vote on the final Republican teachers all over our State, and to in- bill that does nothing to target tax plan. And guess what. In a tax plan vest in lower cost tuition so every offshoring or job creation. that is over 500 pages, nowhere do they child can go to a public university What will it do? Well, CEOs have told get rid of the carried interest loophole without debt. us directly that they are going to buy for hedge fund managers. Hedge fund But that is not what we have to- back stock, which mostly benefits the managers are still going to get a better night—no. My friend across the aisle wealthiest shareholders and the CEOs tax rate than the people who work for says that we are going to wave the with stock options. them—a better tax rate than their sec- magic wand and we are going to give When we know that over a third of retaries and a better tax rate than all this money—all of this gold, all this the stocks that trade on the market their assistants. So in Candidate $3 trillion—to the richest Americans, are held by foreign investors—foreign Trump’s words, in this tax bill, it looks and jobs are going to automatically ap- investors are holding half of the value like those hedge fund managers are pear. But it has been analyzed by the of the stock market—it is just impos- still ‘‘getting away with murder.’’ experts. They say this barely increases sible to argue that this bill is focused That is why it is a farce to call this the growth of the economy—just a on Michigan families. tax reform. It is stacking the Tax Code smidgeon, almost immeasurable. If we wanted to make the Tax Code more in favor of the very wealthy and Then, there are these countereffects. simpler for small businesses, we could the very powerful. In fact, if you are a You have the challenge that this bill have. Instead, we are voting on a bill millionaire in America, you are going will create a lot of money for compa- that includes some of the most com- to get an average annual tax cut of nies that are going to buy machines to plicated provisions you could possibly $70,000. That is great if you are a mil- replace people who work—accelerating imagine for a small business owner. lionaire. At the same time, millions of the automation in America that de- If we really wanted to tackle our fis- middle-class taxpayers are going to pay stroys jobs. This bill is going to send cal challenges in a responsible way, we more.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.093 S19DEPT1 S8138 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 The folks who get the biggest wind- This is not it. Let’s start over. Let’s wildly, falsely that somehow your fall are big corporations. Their tax rate vote this down. taxes are going to go up. Let me tell will go from 35 percent to 21 percent. I yield back the remainder of my you, for virtually every American tax- Who are these folks? Well, primarily, time. payer in this country, your taxes will they are the folks who are already the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- go down. wealthiest people in this country, but I ator from Texas. In the Old Testament, when someone bet a lot of people will be surprised to Mr. CRUZ. Mr. President, tonight is came forward and claimed he was a learn that 35 percent of the stock- a momentous evening, but it is also a prophet, the test the Old Testament holders in those American corporations sad evening. It is a momentous evening provided is, if you claimed you were a are foreign stockholders. Thirty-five because the Senate is on the verge of prophet, the people were to demand, percent of the folks who have stock in passing historic tax cuts that are de- make a short-term prediction, and let’s these companies are foreigners. signed to bring back jobs and economic see if it comes true. Well, the Demo- In the year 2019, foreign stockholders growth, to create millions of new jobs, crats have made a short-term pre- are going to get a $48 billion windfall to raise wages, and to cut the taxes on diction. They told the American peo- from that big corporate tax cut. In working families, but it is a sad day be- ple: Your taxes are going to go up. In that same year, 11 million Americans cause it is a day of a demonstration of January, take a look at it. I guarantee will pay more taxes. So money out of Democratic partisanship that is ill-be- you, for that single mom, when you the pockets of middle-class American fitting for the institution that is the look at the child tax credit, your taxes families will go into the bank accounts U.S. Senate. are going down. of foreign stockholders. That doesn’t For two centuries, tax reform has Every single income tax bracket is sound like America first to me. It been a bipartisan endeavor. For two going down. Not only that, the stand- doesn’t sound like middle-class tax- centuries, Democrats have been willing ard deduction that you could take is payers first to me. to work with Republicans on cutting doubling for a couple from $12,000 to In fact, I want my colleagues to see taxes. $24,000. The first $24,000 you make, you just how skewed this tax bill is. I men- In 1981 and in 1986, when Ronald pay zero, nothing, nada. Yet the Demo- tioned that about 11 million Americans Reagan enacted historic tax reforms crats, with their friends, their compli- are going to see their taxes go up right and tax cuts, Democrats participated. ant friends in the media, have suc- away, but if you take the tax cut for Indeed, a Democrat, Tip O’Neill, was ceeded in scaring people to think a his- every working-class family in every Speaker of the House. In the House, toric tax cut is somehow a tax in- State Donald Trump won in the last then a conservative Democrat, Bill crease. election and you add up all of their tax Graham, carried the Ronald Reagan The beauty of it is, for every voter at home, determine if they are telling the cuts, it is still $5 billion less than what tax cuts. In the Senate, in 1986, one of truth or if they are misleading you be- foreign stockholders get in the year the leaders was then a liberal Demo- cause they are so filled with partisan 2019. crat, Bill Bradley, from New Jersey. Think about that. These are families Those Democrats, the so-called con- animosity for the President that they can’t vote for a tax cut. It is a sad who make about $100,000 or less. If you servative Democrats, the Democrats state of affairs. take the tax cut that every family in interested in cutting taxes on working Despite that, this bill is going to every State that Donald Trump won, men and women have disappeared from and you add them all up, all those tax pass. Despite that, we are going to see this institution. job creators, we are going to see farm- cuts, it still comes out to less than for- When the House first passed tax cuts, ers, we are going to see ranchers, and eign stockholders are going to get in zero Democrats voted for it—zero—not we are going to see small businesses the year 2019. a single Democrat in the entire body. I will tell you, when the American growing because the taxes on each of When the Senate passed tax cuts, zero public finds out what is in this tax them are going to go down. We are Democrats passed it. We can expect to- plan, they are going to get madder and going to see the taxes for working fam- night not a single Democrat will break madder. I heard Speaker RYAN say: ilies go down. from party discipline. Why? Because Well, people are going to see the result, By the way, there is one subset of and they are going to like it. The more they are so united in their rage at people whose taxes will go up under they see the results, the madder they President Trump that they are willing this, the rich people in high-tax Demo- are going to get. Here is the thing, it to tell middle-class voters in their cratic States. The irony of all the high gets worse with time. There are some State: We don’t care. dudgeon from our Democratic friends things that do well over time; this gets Tonight every Democrat is going to pounding the table about this is a tax worse. vote against doubling the child tax cut for the rich, the only people whose When this bill fully kicks in, the tax credit. If you are a single mom at home taxes are going up are the really rich. cuts for American families expire. and you have three kids, right now the The middle class, their taxes are all They are small, relatively, to start child tax credit is $1,000. In just a cou- going down. The working class, their with, then they expire, but the tax cuts ple of weeks, it is going to double to taxes are going down. Every taxpayer, for corporations, they are big and they $2,000 per kid, which means $6,000 in tax their taxes are going down, except rich are forever. You know what that credit in your pocket, and every single people in Manhattan and San Fran- means. That means those foreign Democrat in this body is going to say cisco. Some of them, their taxes may stockholders are going to have their to the single moms: Tough luck. We go up. tax cuts go on forever. aren’t cutting your taxes. What a sad You see this Kabuki theater of Sen- In fact, when this fully kicks in 10 statement. ators on the Democratic aisle pre- years from now, those foreign stock- We have seen floor speech after floor tending: We won’t defend the rich peo- holders are going to get a $23 billion speech after floor speech where Demo- ple by claiming we are defending the windfall in that year, but average crats claim this tax cut is going to working class. Well, the facts are the American families making $75,000 or raise your taxes. There used to be a facts are the facts, and the facts are less—$75,000 or less—on average, are standard for veracity in this body, but the taxes for the working class are going to see their taxes go up. They the beautiful thing is, when one polit- going down. Those are the facts, and will see their taxes go up when this ical party makes representations to you will see that. fully kicks in to give that windfall to the American people that aren’t just a I ask everyone watching at home, go foreign stockholders. little bit wrong but are wildly outright look at your pay stub in January. If That is a bad deal for America. It is falsehoods, that tends to become pub- they weren’t telling the truth, if you a bad deal for the middle class. We lic. see in your pay stub you are paying should say no to this tax bill. We The beautiful thing is in January the less taxes, you ought to stop and ask: should start over and do real tax re- American people are going to see. So I Gosh. Why did 48 Democrats in the form that benefits middle-class fami- am going to encourage the American Senate all tell me something that was lies and those working their way into people, in January, take a look at your false? Why did they say something that the middle class. pay stubs. The Democrats are claiming is not true in my family?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.094 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8139 It is even sadder than that. One of time—some dads but a lot of moms who fine. The death tax, or as Democrats the most important elements of this put in the time day after day after day like to call it, the estate tax—we can tax reform bill that we are getting homeschooling their kids, what every disagree on that. But educating kids ready to pass is an expansion of edu- Democrat is standing up to do right with disabilities—you are really stand- cational opportunities for parents. It is now is saying: We are going to dis- ing up raising that objection? an amendment I introduced and this criminate against homeschoolers. We I would ask my friends on the Demo- body passed. It was divided 50–50, and are going to cut you out. Why? Because cratic side of the aisle: Don’t do that. the Vice President cast a tie-breaking the Democratic Party can’t stand the Don’t discriminate against the vote. It expanded 529 college savings audacity of a parent who would take it homeschoolers. plans. upon himself or herself to educate their I yield the floor. Right now, 529 plans are immensely child free of centralized control. So The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- popular. Parents and grandparents can their point of order is to carve ator from Wyoming. Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, I yield back save for college education for their homeschoolers out of this. kids and grandkids in a tax-advantaged Now, one of the provisions they want all remaining time for the majority. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Re- way. The amendment I introduced that to carve out is a provision that says publican time is yielded back. this body adopted expands 529 college homeschooled students can pay from a The Senator from Oregon. savings plans to also include K–12 edu- 529 college savings account for tutor- Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, the issue cation, to also include letting parents ing. Every Senate Democrat is getting with the Cruz amendment is straight- spend up to $10,000 per child per year ready to vote against tutors for chil- forward. The Byrd rule states that the from a 529 plan on public school, on pri- dren at home. primary purpose of a budget bill is to vate school, on parochial school, or on Another provision they are objecting address spending and taxes. If, on the religious school, and as the amendment to that is going to be carved out says other hand, you are debating a major was passed, on homeschools. It puts the that parents can pay for 529 plans for policy change and the budget impact is parents in charge; it puts the grand- books, for additional materials, can merely incidental, the provision just parents in charge, saving their own pay for a student in high school who is doesn’t comply with the Byrd rule. money—not taxpayer money—their duly enrolled in community college, That is the case here. own money. can pay for that out of their own The Cruz amendment has a modest It is the most significant Federal money in a tax advantage plan. Do you budget impact, but the impact is vastly school choice legislation that has ever know what the Democrats are saying? outweighed by the profound impact, as passed the U.S. Congress. If you are a student signed up in a com- a matter of social and education pol- You know what we are in the middle munity college, we, the Democratic icy, of providing Federal support for of, right? The Democrats have raised Party, object to you paying for that homeschooling for the first time. In an objection. They raised an objection out of the tax advantage plan. fact, last week, the Senator from Texas to all of it. They were horrified that a Let me tell you what is most strik- called his section 529 homeschooling benefit could go to 50 million ing, a provision the Democrats are ar- provision ‘‘the most far-reaching Fed- schoolkids, that parents would be able guing to strike provides that parents eral school choice legislation bill ever to save for those schoolkids. They with a child with disabilities can pay passed.’’ I agree with the Senator’s as- raised an objection under the Byrd for educational therapy from a 529 plan sessment of his amendment. The issue rule, which is an obscure procedure that is their own savings that they put of Federal support for homeschooling rule that nobody at home knows what together, and the Democrats are saying is, in fact, major policy. There is no it is, but they objected to it. They said: to the parents with kids with disabil- question that there are parents who You can’t benefit 50 million schoolkids. ities, no, you can’t. want to homeschool their kids. I am Indeed, as we argued in front of the Let me ask my friends on the Demo- certain that many of them are very Senate Parliamentarian, one of the ar- cratic side of the aisle, are you pre- conscientious. Yet this is the first time guments the Democrats said is: This is pared to look into the eyes of a kid the Federal Government would provide really popular with the American peo- with disability and explain why you Federal support for homeschooling. ple. We don’t want to do something said you are cut out? Every other child That is why the Parliamentarian ruled that is really popular with the Amer- in America has the ability to have against Senator CRUZ. ican people. This is a big policy change. their tuition paid for from these 529 I urge my colleagues to vote against They love 529 plans, and now the par- plans, but children with disabilities the Enzi motion to waive the Byrd rule ents of 50 million schoolkids— being homeschooled, the Democrats— point of order, which we will vote on schoolkids in Texas and every other and not one, not two, every single shortly. State—will be able to save for the edu- Democrat—stand united. Why? Because I also want to close for the Finance cation of their kids, and that has the they can’t stand the President. They Democrats on this tax issue with some Democrats horrified because every sin- are angry at the President. brief remarks. My colleague from gle Democrat voted against the parents That is fine. If they are angry at the Texas once again has been saying, as in their State saving in a 529 system President, stand up and yell at the many Republicans have done tonight: for K–12 education. President, but don’t take it out on kids Middle-class folks, wait until Feb- Well, the Senate Parliamentarian who are homeschooled. Don’t take it ruary. Your paychecks are going to be issued a ruling earlier tonight rejecting out on kids with disabilities. The bulging. most of the Democratic claims but, Democrats have an opportunity to Here are the facts. We just got them sadly, adopted one small portion of it. demonstrate they are not going to pun- from the Joint Committee on Tax- I think that claim was an error. I think ish children with disabilities because of ation—a specific table that shows that the Parliamentarian’s ruling is con- their partisan anger. We have right 60 million taxpayers with an annual in- trary to Federal rule. now a motion to waive this mean-spir- come of $200,000 or less will get $100 a Let me tell you what the Democrats ited, vindictive point of order that dis- year in tax relief or a tax increase. are objecting to because there was a criminates against homeschoolers and That looks to me like a third of all tax- moment for conscience to strike them. carves out kids with disabilities. payers are not exactly going to have The Democrats’ position—they have I would ask my friends on the Demo- bulging paychecks the way we have raised a point of order. The Senator cratic side of the aisle—there are going heard from our colleagues on the other from Vermont stood up and raised a to be issues we disagree on, but the side of the aisle. point of order and said they want to ex- vote to allow parents of children with The fact is that some of the rhetoric clude homeschoolers from 529 plans. disabilities to spend their own funds in we have heard from Republican col- There are 1.8 million kids who are a tax-advantaged fund to provide for leagues tonight didn’t sound half bad, homeschooled right now. educational therapy for those kids with so it is a real shame that the rhetoric To every kid who is being disabilities—that ought to be 100 to doesn’t resemble the plan on paper. homeschooled right now, to every par- nothing. All of us should agree on that. As I indicated, this bill is not cen- ent, to every mom who puts in the We might disagree on other things, tered on a middle-class tax cut. The

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.097 S19DEPT1 S8140 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 fleeting sugar high the bill provides of- What has been sold as a middle-class in our country will reap 83 percent of fers some middle-class families a mod- miracle will instead deliver a hefty the benefits of the tax plan. The top 5 est amount of help, but it is basically windfall to the wealthy and only pal- percent—the top 5 percent—will reap a distraction from the giveaways to the try, temporary relief for some in the 99.2 percent of the benefits. Is that multinational corporations and power- middle class. Others will see an in- what you intended? That is what you ful donors. crease right from the get-go. So all of are doing. The very, very wealthy—the One of our Republican colleagues to- the talk—no middle-class person will highest spectrum—get almost all the night repeated that if passed, the def- pay a tax increase—gone, gone. And in benefits. Some bill for the middle class. icit is going to drop when the bill is en- a few years, a majority of the middle The raw numbers are a staggering in- acted. I just have to say that fantasy is class will see their taxes go up. What dictment of the Republican tax plan, as over. Even independent conservatives kind of middle-class relief is that? they have been throughout the course are saying that there is no third alter- What has been sold as a deficit re- of this debate. The data reveals what nate reality in which Republican tax ducer will instead balloon the deficit the Republican tax plan truly is—a tax bills perform magic. by at least $1.5 trillion, maybe more. scam that will rob middle-class fami- I want to close tonight by saying to Our children and grandchildren will be lies to pay for corporate tax breaks and the public that I would really like to asked to clean up the mess made to- giveaways to the wealthy. wrap this up with a warning: The night by our Republican colleagues in In an age of extraordinary income in- American people should know that the their eagerness to give the very equality, when the upper echelons of far-right architects of this tax plan are wealthy, the very powerful corpora- our economy are capturing an ever- going to be coming for your Social Se- tions, a big tax break. greater share of the pie, the Republican curity and Medicare before you take What has been sold as a bill to give tax bill is like pouring gasoline on a your Christmas tree down. That is the people more freedom to choose their raging fire, making income inequality, end game. That is what Americans healthcare will instead raise premiums as bad as it is now, even worse. It will need to know is coming next. And on and reduce the number of Americans exacerbate all the bad trends in our this side of the aisle, we want the with health insurance by 13 million. economy that over the past few dec- American people to know that we are The number of people who get a small ades have produced dramatically more going to be on their side. tax cut and still have to pay more than wealth for the already wealthy, while Mr. President, I yield the floor. that tax cut in premium increases is producing less work and less pay for The PRESIDING OFFICER. The large. What a huge mistake my col- working people. That fundamental im- Democratic leader. leagues made by eliminating that pro- balance in our economy will be made Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I want vision in the healthcare bill, because even more precarious. What a disgrace. to thank my colleague RON WYDEN for the middle class is going to pay the That is what this bill is. It is an abso- the excellent job he has done in leading price. lute disgrace. the opposition to this bill. I am incred- What has been sold as a job creator It is not just an ideological dif- ulous that someone on the other side of and wage-booster will do little of ei- ference; it is something dramatically the aisle said that this will decrease ther, as companies—large, big, power- opposite of what America needs. There the deficit. That is just amazing. The ful companies—are already initiating is no reason for a single middle-class stock buybacks instead of hiring more lack of factual fidelity for what is in family to pay more while every single workers and raising wages. Is that the bill and what the other side is say- corporation pays less. If you want to what you intended? Give them more ing is unparalleled—unparalleled. I help the middle class, give them a real money so they can buy back more want to thank Senator WYDEN for his tax break. The rich get far more dol- stock, increasing the wealth of cor- valiant efforts in pointing that out. I lars back than the middle class. That is porate CEOs, increasing the wealth of want to thank Senator SANDERS and fact—an irrefutable fact. the very wealthy, sending billions of Senator CANTWELL as well, the ranking On top of that, as Senator WYDEN dollars overseas to overseas investors. members of our committees, who warned everybody a few minutes ago, That is what is happening already. Cor- worked so hard on this bill. this tax bill will endanger Social Secu- poration after corporation has said: In closing, very soon the Senate will rity and Medicare. Republicans have Aha, with this new money, we will do vote for the final time on the Repub- already said, led by Speaker RYAN, even more stock buybacks. lican tax bill. When future generations Ultimately, the American people will that they will use the deficit they are look back at the short and messy his- learn that Republicans have squan- about to create as an excuse to come tory of the Republican tax bill, its dered their so-called ‘‘once-in-a-genera- after those earned benefits. The AARP most enduring lesson will be what it tion opportunity’’ on corporate welfare is very reluctant to take stands on has taught us about how not to legis- and taxes for the rich, financed by tax bills like this, but it was so bad for the late. After only a few months of fran- increases and healthcare increases on elderly, the AARP felt compelled to tic, backroom negotiations by only one the middle class. publicly oppose it. party, we are left with a product as The Joint Committee on Taxation Elderly Americans are not the only sloppy and as partisan as the process just released a report that found that ones who should be worried, although used to draft it. Even today, three pro- by 2027, nearly 145 million middle-class they certainly should be. If you are 40, visions of the bill were found to violate families earning under $200,000 will ei- 45, or 50, working hard, trying to put Senate rules. So now, all of a sudden, ther get tax hikes—can we have order, money away for retirement while send- the House will have to vote again to- Mr. President? ing your kids to college, and you are morrow. That is a perfect microcosm of The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- counting on these programs to be there the hasty and reckless process—can we ate will be in order. when you retire, know this: Cuts to So- have order? Mr. SCHUMER. This is serious stuff. cial Security, Medicare, and Medicaid The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- We believe you are messing up Amer- are likely to fall on your shoulders be- ate will be in order. ica. You can pay attention for a couple cause of this monstrosity of a bill. The Mr. SCHUMER. It is a perfect micro- of minutes. Republican tax bill is the first shoe to cosm of the hasty and reckless process Nearly 145 million middle-class fami- drop. The second will fall on the social that produced this legislation. lies earning under $200,000 will get ei- safety net that allows millions of hard- If my Republican friends think these ther tax hikes or a tax cut of less than working Americans to retire with dig- are the only mistakes that will be $100. Eighty-three percent of the mid- nity and security. found in their bill, they are sorely mis- dle class will either pay more in taxes For all of these reasons, it is not a taken. Many more will almost cer- or get little but crumbs. Is that what surprise that in poll after poll after tainly be unearthed. But the bigger you intended? Is that this great bill poll, the American people overwhelm- issue is the failure of this legislation to that is helping the middle class? Abso- ingly oppose this bill. live up to each and every one of the lutely not. My Republican colleagues have done promises made by Republicans about Meanwhile, according to the Tax Pol- what is nearly impossible. It is a bad what it would mean for our country. icy Center, the top 1 percent of earners trick, but they have accomplished it.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:37 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.109 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8141 They have managed to make a tax cut passed. I challenge a single one. I know The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this bill even less popular than previous tax this isn’t what they would like to see. vote, the yeas are 51, the nays are 48. hikes. Who would have thought they I know this isn’t what so many of you Three-fifths of the Senators duly cho- could accomplish that? Who would came here to do. I know it is not what sen and sworn not having voted in the have thought? In fact, it is the second- you tell your constituents the Senate affirmative, the motion is rejected. least popular piece of major legislation ought to be. I know so many of you la- The points of order are sustained. in 30 years, opposed 2 to 1 by the Amer- ment the steady erosion of bipartisan- The material will be stricken from the ican people, and the more they learn ship here in the Senate, as do I, as do conference report. about the bill, the less they like it. By my fellow Democrats. So rather than The VICE PRESIDENT. The question the way, what was the first? The Re- resign to the failures of the current before the Senate is whether the Sen- publican healthcare bill earlier this moment, I plead—plead—with my Re- ate shall recede from its amendment to year. publican colleagues to imagine a better H.R. 1 and concur therein with a fur- It is not hard to understand why the path forward. Vote no. Vote no and pre- ther amendment. dark heart of the Republican policy vent taxes from going up on millions of Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, I agenda easing burdens on those who al- middle-class families. Vote no and stop ask for the yeas and nays. ready have so much, while punishing or 13 million Americans from going with- ignoring those who have too little, is a out health insurance. Vote no, so we The VICE PRESIDENT. Is there a profoundly unpopular idea. My Repub- don’t add $1.5 trillion to the deficit, sufficient second? lican friends ought to listen to the putting the burden on our children and There is a sufficient second. American people, the fount of wisdom grandchildren. Vote no and say that The clerk will call the roll. in our democracy, or there will be a you want to have the kind of bipar- The senior assistant legislative clerk reckoning. tisan debate befitting the grand tradi- called the roll. The American people do not believe tions of this United States Senate. Mr. CORNYN. The following Senator in trickle-down, as all of you seem to. Vote no. Otherwise, I believe the entire is necessarily absent: the Senator from Give the very top money, and they will Republican Party and each of you will Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). create jobs. It hasn’t happened. come to rue this day. Further, if present and voting, the AT&T—do you know what their tax I yield the floor. Senator from Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN) rate was over the last 10 years? Eight I yield back all time. would have voted ‘‘yea.’’ percent. Do you know how many jobs VOTE ON MOTION TO WAIVE (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- they created? Zero. They cut 80,000 peo- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. ple. Let’s give them more money while leries.) CAPITO). The question is on agreeing to The VICE PRESIDENT. The Ser- hurting the middle class. It makes no the motion to waive the points of sense. geant at Arms will restore order in the order. Gallery. The American people are saying in a The yeas and nays have been pre- (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- loud, clear voice that they oppose tax viously ordered. leries.) breaks for corporations and the The clerk will call the roll. wealthy. They don’t believe in trickle- The legislative clerk called the roll. The VICE PRESIDENT. The Ser- down, as you do. They oppose gutting Mr. CORNYN. The following Senator geant at Arms will restore order in the healthcare, as you want to do, and they is necessarily absent: the Senator from Gallery. oppose this one-party approach to leg- Arizona (Mr. MCCAIN). (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- islating. The American people know The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there leries.) that a slapdash partisan process will any other Senators in the Chamber de- The VICE PRESIDENT. The Ser- not result in good law. My Republican siring to vote? geant at Arms will restore order in the colleagues ignore the warnings of the The yeas and nays resulted—yeas 51, Gallery. American people at their own peril. nays 48, as follows: (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- In just a short time, Republicans will leries.) have a choice whether or not to affix [Rollcall Vote No. 322 Leg.] their name to this awful legislation. YEAS—51 The VICE PRESIDENT. The Ser- Although the Republican propagandists Alexander Fischer Paul geant at Arms will restore order in the may call its passage a political victory, Barrasso Flake Perdue Gallery. Blunt Gardner Portman (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- it will be very fleeting and illusory. Boozman Graham Risch The substance and polling are so rotten Burr Grassley Roberts leries.) that a year from now, Republicans will Capito Hatch Rounds The VICE PRESIDENT. The Ser- Cassidy Heller Rubio geant at Arms will restore order in the be running away from this bill in Cochran Hoeven Sasse shame for voting yes this evening. Collins Inhofe Scott Gallery. There is an alternative: Vote no. Corker Isakson Shelby (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- Come to the table with Democrats. Cornyn Johnson Strange leries.) Cotton Kennedy Sullivan Begin serious, bipartisan talks on tax Crapo Lankford Thune The VICE PRESIDENT. The Ser- reform. Get a good bill, and work in Cruz Lee Tillis geant at Arms will restore order in the the way this Chamber is supposed to Daines McConnell Toomey Gallery. Enzi Moran Wicker work: bipartisan, moderate, thought- Ernst Murkowski Young (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- ful, open. You have done none of NAYS—48 leries.) those—none of those. The VICE PRESIDENT. The Ser- I have little faith that, at this late Baldwin Gillibrand Murray geant at Arms will restore order in the hour, my colleagues will choose the Bennet Harris Nelson Blumenthal Hassan Peters Gallery. better course, but if they do, we could Booker Heinrich Reed (Disturbance in the Visitors’ Gal- do something great for the country and Brown Heitkamp Sanders for this body at the same time. We Cantwell Hirono Schatz leries.) could return to regular order, where Cardin Kaine Schumer The VICE PRESIDENT. The Ser- Carper King Shaheen geant at Arms will restore order in the the legitimate policy differences be- Casey Klobuchar Stabenow tween our parties are argued in broad Coons Leahy Tester Gallery. daylight, and with painstaking effort, Cortez Masto Manchin Udall The result was announced—yeas 51, Donnelly Markey Van Hollen we compromise even after we fiercely Duckworth McCaskill Warner nays 48, as follows: debate one another. Isn’t that what we Durbin Menendez Warren [Rollcall Vote No. 323 Leg.] Feinstein Merkley Whitehouse came here to do? YEAS—51 I challenge a single one of my Repub- Franken Murphy Wyden Alexander Boozman Cassidy lican colleagues to say they are proud NOT VOTING—1 Barrasso Burr Cochran of the way this tax bill was written and McCain Blunt Capito Collins

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:32 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.111 S19DEPT1 S8142 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 Corker Heller Risch Kentucky Oil and Gas Association, and ney, a businessman, an entrepreneur, Cornyn Hoeven Roberts Cotton Inhofe Rounds the Independent Petroleum Association and a developer. Lohren’s siblings and Crapo Isakson Rubio of America. He currently serves as the friends think of his humor, patriotism, Cruz Johnson Sasse vice chairman of the Interstate Oil and and constant friendship. Daines Kennedy Scott Gas Compact Commission, which is Elaine and I would like to extend our Enzi Lankford Shelby Ernst Lee Strange tasked with helping States find envi- condolences to Lohren’s wife, Arvilla, Fischer McConnell Sullivan ronment-friendly ways to increase the his children Eddie and Cindy, and all Flake Moran Thune supply of American energy. who knew and loved him. His life left a Gardner Murkowski Tillis Finally, Bill and his business partner lasting impression on all of those Graham Paul Toomey Grassley Perdue Wicker founded a successful horse racing and around him, and I hope that their fond Hatch Portman Young breeding enterprise. His success in the memories of Lohren will bring comfort NAYS—48 natural gas industry was matched in in this time of grief. The Corbin Times-Tribune recently Baldwin Gillibrand Murray the thoroughbred racing industry. In Bennet Harris Nelson fact, Bill’s own horse, California published an article on Lohren’s life. I Blumenthal Hassan Peters Chrome, won the Kentucky Derby in ask unanimous consent that a copy of Booker Heinrich Reed 2014. the article be printed in the RECORD. Brown Heitkamp Sanders Cantwell Hirono Schatz The distinguished alumnus award is There being no objection, the mate- Cardin Kaine Schumer not only a recognition of significant rial was ordered to be printed in the Carper King Shaheen accomplishment in the recipient’s cho- RECORD, as follows: Casey Klobuchar Stabenow [From the Corbin Times-Tribune, Dec. 5, Coons Leahy Tester sen profession, but it also serves as an Cortez Masto Manchin Udall inspiration to the current students at 2017] Donnelly Markey Van Hollen Berea College who are eager to make LOHREN MARTIN REMEMBERED AS ‘A GREAT Duckworth McCaskill Warner their own positive impact in the com- FRIEND’ Durbin Menendez Warren (By Angela Turner) Feinstein Merkley Whitehouse munity. Bill and his wife, Zella, play Franken Murphy Wyden active roles in the community by ‘‘The biggest thing I can tell you about Lohren Martin is how much he valued every NOT VOTING—1 hosting events in support of the New Opportunity School for Women, an in- individual,’’ Shirley Chandler said about her McCain brother. tensive 3-week program that offers The VICE PRESIDENT. On this vote, Siblings often share a special bond and it coursework in job search skills, cre- was no different in the case of Shirley Chan- the yeas are 51, the nays are 48. ative writing, and Appalachian lit- The Senate recedes from its amend- dler and her brother Lohren Martin. Martin, erature. I want to ask my colleagues to who was a local attorney, businessman, en- ment and concurs in H.R. 1 with a fur- join me in congratulating Bill for re- trepreneur, developer, and Korean War Vet- ther amendment. eran (just to name a few), died on Nov. 21. The Tax Cuts and Jobs Act is passed. ceiving this award and commending him on a successful career. Growing up, Martin was the salutatorian of (Applause, Senators rising.) this high school class. He attended several The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. f colleges and universities including Sue Ben- CAPITO). The Senator from Wyoming. TRIBUTE TO CLARENCE FLOYD nett College, Union College and the Univer- f sity of Kentucky. Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, According to Chandler, Martin’s education MORNING BUSINESS today I would like to recognize the ef- was interrupted when he was drafted into the Mr. ENZI. Madam President, I ask forts of Clarence Floyd, a proud Korean Korean War. After basic training he was se- unanimous consent that the Senate be war veteran, from Pulaski County, KY. lected to go into army intelligence. After training in army intelligence, he was sent to in a period of morning business, with At the age of 84, Clarence still works to serve his community, taking up a cam- Korea to interpret aerial photographs. Chan- Senators permitted to speak therein dler said while in Korea, Martin lived in a for up to 10 minutes each. paign to erect reserved-parking spaces tent and was dedicated and focused on the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without for area veterans. These signs are a sa- task at hand. objection, it is so ordered. lute to the men and women who served ‘‘He was an awesome brother,’’ Chandler said. ‘‘He was a great mentor, a great friend f our Nation in uniform. As the honor guard commander of and confidant.’’ TRIBUTE TO BILL DAUGHERTY Somerset’s American Legion Post 38, Martin’s friends shared similar thoughts. ‘‘He was a friend that would stick with you Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, Clarence cares deeply about America’s in good times and bad times,’’ said Martin’s today I wish to congratulate Mr. Bill veterans. To arrange reserved-parking friend and business partner Dave Huff. ‘‘He Daugherty of Lexington, KY, who was spaces for veterans, Clarence works was very patriotic.’’ recently honored by Berea College with with local businesses and the city of f its distinguished alumnus award. Each Somerset’s street department. Then, he year, the school recognizes notable and his wife, Nancy, install the signs TRIBUTE TO JAMES RITCHIE alumni who have achieved success in themselves. He says, ‘‘It takes me Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, their profession, contributed to the about 20 minutes to put up two signs.’’ today I wish to pay tribute to James community, and have faithfully upheld To date, there are 10 locations with Ritchie, of Somerset, KY, a brave Ken- Berea’s mission. The college, founded veterans-only parking throughout Pu- tuckian who was honored by his com- in 1855 by abolitionists, fosters an edu- laski County. Clarence is also working munity on Veterans Day. He was the cational institution that cultivates with other local businesses to install feature of a newspaper story in the Christian values and challenges stu- more in the near future. I would like to Commonwealth Journal, which de- dents to carry them into action in thank Clarence for his service to our tailed his life and his honorable career their community. country and to his fellow veterans, and in the military. The article was a com- Raised on a cattle farm in Jackson I urge all of my colleagues to join me munity’s effort to thank him for his County, KY, Bill graduated from Berea in doing so. service to our country. in 1976, and he used his degree in agri- f In 1947, James decided to join our Na- culture to succeed in the natural re- tion’s military. Seeking to enlist in the source industry. Less than 10 years REMEMBERING LOHREN MARTIN Navy, James walked in the wrong door later, he founded his own small petro- Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, and was convinced instead to join the leum business. His company evolved today I wish to remember the life of marines. After his training, James was and grew to focus on natural gas in the Lohren Martin, of Corbin, KY, who deployed to join the 1st Marine Divi- Appalachian region. After years of suc- passed away on November 21, 2017, at sion Air Wing in Pusan, Korea. How- cess, Bill and his business partner the age of 87. A man of many talents, ever, the trip to Korea by way of San founded an independent oil exploration Lohren will be remembered most by Diego proved treacherous when James’ and production company. those who loved him as a caring friend. transport collided with a steamliner. Bill has served his community on the A veteran of the Korean war, Lohren Once he made it to Korea, James was board of the Kentucky Energy Council, worked in his community as an attor- responsible for providing protection for

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:46 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.031 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8143 the Marine air base. Against North Ko- Diego, CA. for transport to Korea. Following mance, they were married after only 7 days. rean and Chinese guerillas, he bravely are excerpts from Associated Press and Love at first sight does work—they were faced the harsh realities of war. After United Press:—‘‘Lettsworth, La. (AP)–(UP) married for 60 years. James lost Wilma to his enlistment and am honorable dis- Aug. 1951—A New Orleans-bound streamliner cancer in 2014. They raised 3 boys and 2 girls. and a troop train carrying 288 marines to- James is enjoying his golden years in his charge, he returned home. The same ward the Pacific collided head-on in a Lou- home just outside Somerset, KY. month, however, James felt the call to isiana swamp Friday and the Kansas City For every infantry combat soldier, there serve once again, this time in the Air Southern railway reported at least eight are at least 10 others in the background sup- Force. Eventually returning to Korea, dead and one missing. The crash happened porting him with food, ammunition, fuel, he helped in the U.S. effort to transfer about 7 a.m. (CST) on a double bend some air-artillery, communications, intelligence responsibilities to the South Koreans. miles northeast of Baton Rouge. Marines and armor cover. These are the unsung he- In 1961, James chose to retire from piled out of the wreckage and gave first aid roes we seldom hear about. military and answered another call, to injured passengers of the New Orleans bound Southern Belle, as well as to their this time to serve as a minister. With own. Rescue workers had to hack a road f his wife, Wilma, James raised five chil- through the swamp to the wreck—most of dren. I would like to take this oppor- the marines escaped because they were eat- BUDGETARY REVISIONS tunity to thank James for his military ing breakfast at the back of the train.’’ service to our country, and I urge my At that time, troop movements were clas- Mr. ENZI. Madam President, section colleagues to join me. sified, so when the news hit the wires, Camp 3003 of H. Con. Res. 71, the concurrent Earlier this year the Commonwealth Lejeune was swamped with concerned family resolution on the budget for fiscal year members wanting to know the status of their Journal published an article detailing 2018, allows the chairman of the Senate Mr. Ritchie’s service to our Nation. I sons, husbands, fathers and brothers. The uninjured marines finally boarded Budget Committee to revise the alloca- ask unanimous consent that the article undamaged railcars and went on to port in tions, aggregates, and levels in the be printed in the RECORD. San Diego to a troop ship taking them on to budget resolution for legislation con- There being no objection, the mate- Korea. Because of the delay, the troop train sidered under the resolution’s rec- rial was ordered to be printed in the was given priority clearance to California. onciliation instructions. RECORD, as follows: Upon arrival in Pusan, S. Korea, it was the job of the 1st 90 mm AAA Battalion to pro- I find that the conference report to [From the Commonwealth Journal, accompany H.R. 1 fulfills the condi- November 11, 2017] vide protection for the Marine Air Base located there. Their four artillery batteries tions found in section 3003 of H. Con. THE HEROIC LIFE OF A NOMADIC SOLDIER with twelve 90 mm guns were stationed on Res. 71. Accordingly, I am revising the (By Cline Calhoun) the mountains approximately 40–50 miles allocations to the Committee on Fi- During a somewhat nomadic life with his from Pusan. Transport vehicles carrying am- nance, the Committee on Energy and divorced mother, James Ritchie, born in munition, generator fuel and supplies were Natural Resources, and other enforce- Ellington, S.C., made it through high school constantly subjected to sniper fire. in Alexandria, Va., as he jokingly says: ″In James said the primary concern for the able budgetary levels to account for the front door straight through the back troops were the constant attempts by North the budgetary effects of the amend- door.″ Korean and Chinese guerillas to invade their ment. After three years in the seventh grade, he air defense locations. He said one of his scar- This adjustment supersedes the ad- found himself turning 17 years old in the iest times was when off duty and the alarm justment I previously made for S. ninth grade. One day his basketball coach goes off. He grabbed his rifle and ran to his Amdt. 1855 on December 1, 2017. made him mad, so in 1947 he found himself in fox hole, only to realize he forgot his ammu- Washington D.C., looking for a military re- nition. Fortunately, his comrades prevented I ask unanimous consent that the ac- cruiter. He had his mind set on the Navy, but a breach of the compound or he would have companying tables, which provide de- when he found the recruitment center, he really found out what hand to hand combat tails about the adjustment, be printed stuck his head in the door of the Marine re- was really like, because he wasn’t about to in the RECORD. cruiter’s office to ask direction to the Navy. run back to retrieve the ammunition! There being no objection, the mate- The Marine recruiter said; ‘‘Come in here After 5 months, the Marines wanted him to boy, I want to talk to you.’’ He went in the reenlist and he would get some quality time, rial was ordered to be printed in the door asking directions and came out the door maybe in Hawaii. Upon learning he would RECORD, as follows: a marine. probably come right back to Korea, visions After eight weeks of basic training at Paris of home took front and center and James de- BUDGET AGGREGATES—BUDGET AUTHORITY AND Island, S.C., he was off to Camp Lejeune, cided to go home. OUTLAYS N.C. With its 14 miles of sea shore, it is per- He was honorably discharged in June of (Pursuant to Section 311 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and Sec- fect for training in unloading the troops and 1952 but found he still had the desire to serve tion 3003 of H. Con. Res. 71, the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2018) equipment of shore landing military units his country, so in the same month, June 1952, during invasions. That was the job of the he found himself at the Air Force recruiter $s in millions 2018 unit James was assigned to: The Pioneer in Alexandria, VA. But this time he didn’t Battalion. ask for directions from the Marine recruiter. Current Aggregates: In 1948 James was reassigned to the 1st 90 Spending: The Air Force sent him to 6 months of train- Budget Authority ...... 3,089,061 mm AAA (Anti-Aircraft Artillery) Battalion ing as a Petroleum Specialist and he was off Outlays ...... 3,109,221 USMC on the Pacific Island of Guam. No to Ladd, AF Base, Alaska, fueling jets in 55 Adjustments:* training here; OJT (on the job training) as a Spending: degrees below zero weather for two years. Budget Authority ...... ¥8,600 gunner. Near the end of his enlistment he In 1955 he was transferred to Kirkland AF Outlays ...... ¥8,600 was transferred back to Camp Lejeune. With Base in New Mexico, where, one year later Revised Aggregates: an honorable discharge he was given inactive guess what? Back to Korea. He served at Spending: Budget Authority ...... 3,080,461 reserve status, subject to recall in case of Osan and Kunson Air Bases because the pro- Outlays ...... 3,100,621 war. Guess what? War. North Korea with tection of South Korea was being turned help from China, invaded South Korea. over to the South Korean military and the James says he hardly had time to get out P51 Mustang were being replaced by the F86 BUDGET AGGREGATE—REVENUES of uniform before he found himself back in fighter jets. (Pursuant to Section 311 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and Sec- tion 3003 of H. Con. Res. 71, the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for it. Discharged in February, called back in James said that promotion through the Fiscal Year 2018) June. The entire reserve unit was called up ranks in the Air Force seemed to be more po- and trained for duty in Korea, being at- litical than proficiency driven. So, in 1961 he $s in millions 2018 2018–2022 2018–2027 tached to the 1st Marine Division Air Wing decided against a military future, said good- Current Aggregates: in Pusan, Korea. But first you have to get bye to the Air Force, and once again headed Revenue ...... 2,640,939 14,509,252 32,671,567 there. One Marine didn’t, and several were home. Besides, he felt he had a greater call- Adjustments: seriously injured. ing as an independent minister of the gospel. Revenue ...... ¥143,800 ¥1,109,800 ¥1,675,600 James’ unit was on a troop train going James met his wife Wilma in Albuquerque, Revised Aggregates: Revenue ...... 2,497,139 13,399,452 30,995,967 from Camp Legume, N.C. to a port in San New Mexica in 1955. After a whirlwind ro-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:32 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.105 S19DEPT1 S8144 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 REVISION TO ALLOCATION TO THE COMMITTEE ON we are forwarding herewith Transmittal No. Defense Applications of San Diego, Cali- FINANCE 17–68, concerning the Air Force’s proposed fornia; L–3 Communications of New York, New York; Lockheed Martin Aero of Fort (Pursuant to Section 302 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and Sec- Letter(s) of Offer and Acceptance to the Gov- tion 3003 of H. Con. Res. 71, the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for ernment of Poland for defense articles and Worth, Texas; Exelis Electronic of Clifton, Fiscal Year 2018) services estimated to cost $200 million. After New Jersey; Northrop Grumman Corporation this letter is delivered to your office, we plan of Falls Church, Virginia; Raytheon of Wal- $s in millions 2018 2018–2022 2018–2027 to issue a news release to notify the public of tham, Massachusetts; Honeywell of Morris Current Allocation: this proposed sale. Plains, New Jersey; Booz Allen Hamilton of Budget Authority ...... 2,281,616 13,510,107 32,116,900 Sincerely, McLean, Virginia; and BAE Systems of Ar- Outlays ...... 2,280,970 13,482,300 32,069,238 GREG KAUSNER lington, Virginia. There are no known offset Adjustments:* Budget Authority ...... ¥8,600 ¥33,000 ¥193,000 (For Charles W. Hooper, Lieutenant agreements proposed in connection with this Outlays ...... ¥8,600 ¥33,000 ¥193,000 General, USA, Director). potential sale. Revised Allocation: Enclosures. Implementation of this proposed sale will Budget Authority ...... 2,273,016 13,477,107 31,923,900 not require the assignment of any additional Outlays ...... 2,272,370 13,449,300 31,876,238 TRANSMITTAL NO. 17–68 U.S. Government or contractor representa- Notice of Proposed Issuance of Letter of tives to Poland. REVISION TO ALLOCATION TO THE COMMITTEE ON ENERGY Offer Pursuant to Section 36(b)(1) of the There will be no adverse impact on U.S. de- AND NATURAL RESOURCES Arms Export Control Act, as amended fense readiness as a result of this proposed (Pursuant to Section 302 of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and Sec- (i) Prospective Purchaser: Government of sale. tion 3003 of H. Con. Res. 71, the Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Poland. f Fiscal Year 2018) (ii) Total Estimated Value: Major Defense Equipment* $0 million. CONFIRMATION OF JENNIFER $s in millions 2018 2018–2022 2018–2027 Other $200 million. NEWSTEAD Current Allocation: Total $200 million. Mr. YOUNG. Madam President, I Budget Authority ...... 4,703 25,212 49,342 (iii) Description and Quantity or Quan- want to offer a few brief comments on Outlays ...... 4,391 24,909 49,112 tities of Articles or Services under Consider- Adjustments: the confirmation of Ms. Jennifer Budget Authority ...... 0 ¥300 ¥1,100 ation for Purchase: Outlays ...... 0 ¥300 ¥1,100 Major Defense Equipment (MDE): None. Newstead and the situation in Yemen. Revised Allocation: Non-MDE: Follow-on support and Ms. Newstead was nominated to serve Budget Authority ...... 4,703 24,912 48,242 Outlays ...... 4,391 24,609 48,012 sustainment services for Poland’s F–16 fleet as the legal adviser of the Department to include aircraft maintenance; system and of State. software overhauls and upgrades; engine sup- This is an incredibly important posi- PAY-AS-YOU-GO SCORECARD FOR THE SENATE port; spare and repair parts; support and test tion. The legal adviser is the principal (Pursuant to Section 4106 and Section 3003 of H. Con. Res. 71, the equipment; publications and technical docu- Concurrent Resolution on the Budget for Fiscal Year 2018) adviser to the Department of State on mentation; U.S. Government and contractor all legal matters, domestic and inter- $s in millions Balances engineering, technical, and logistical sup- national. The legal adviser is also the port; and other related elements of program Starting Balance: support. principal adviser to other Federal Fiscal Year 2018 ...... 0 agencies on legal matters involved in Fiscal Years 2017 through 2022 ...... 0 (iv) Military Department: Air Force (PL– Fiscal Years 2017 through 2027 ...... 0 D–QAW). foreign relations. Through the Sec- Adjustments: (v) Prior Related Cases. if any: PL–D–QAO, retary of State, the legal advisor ad- Fiscal Year 2018 ...... 135,200 Fiscal Years 2017 through 2022 ...... 1,076,500 PL–D–QAP, and PL–D–QAI. vises the President and the National Fiscal Years 2017 through 2027 ...... 1,481,500 (vi) Sales Commission, Fee, etc., Paid, Of- Security Council. For an individual to Revised Balance: fered. or Agreed to be Paid: None. serve well in this position, they must Fiscal Year 2018 ...... 135,200 (vii) Sensitivity of Technology Contained Fiscal Years 2017 through 2022 ...... 1,076,500 understand the law and be willing to Fiscal Years 2017 through 2027 ...... 1,481,500 in the Defense Article or Defense Services Proposed to be Sold: None. provide objective and reliable legal ad- f (viii) Date Report Delivered to Congress: vice. December 19, 2017. I believe Ms. Newstead is well quali- ARMS SALES NOTIFICATION * A defined in Section 47(6) of the Arms Ex- fied to serve in this position. She has Mr. CORKER. Madam President, sec- port Control Act. an impressive educational background, tion 36(b) of the Arms Export Control POLICY JUSTIFICATION and she has served in senior positions Act requires that Congress receive Poland—F–16 Follow-on Support at OMB, the Department of Justice, prior notification of certain proposed The Government of Poland has requested and in the White House. That is why I arms sales as defined by that statute. to purchase follow-on support and supported her nomination in com- Upon such notification, the Congress sustainment services for its F–16 fleet to in- mittee. has 30 calendar days during which the clude aircraft maintenance; system and With that said, before she received a sale may be reviewed. The provision overhauls and upgrades; engine support; floor vote, I wanted to confirm that she spare and repair parts; support and test had a full and accurate appreciation for stipulates that, in the Senate, the noti- equipment; publications and technical docu- fication of proposed sales shall be sent U.S. law as it relates to impediments mentation; U.S. Government and contractor to humanitarian assistance, and the to the chairman of the Senate Foreign engineering, technical, and logistical sup- Relations Committee. port; and other related elements of program clear application of those statutes to In keeping with the committee’s in- support. The estimated cost is $200 million. Saudi Arabia and Yemen. That is why, tention to see that relevant informa- This proposed sale will support the foreign over several weeks, I engaged in three tion is available to the full Senate, I policy and national security objectives of rounds of specific written questions ask unanimous consent to have printed the United States by helping to improve the and answers with Ms. Newstead related security of a NATO ally. Poland continues to to the law. in the RECORD the notifications which be an important force for political stability After those detailed exchanges, I am have been received. If the cover letter and economic progress in Central Europe. confident that Ms. Newstead under- references a classified annex, then such This potential sale will continue the stands the proper application of laws annex is available to all Senators in sustainment of Poland’s F–16 capability. Po- like 22 U.S. Code 2378–1 to Saudi Arabia the office of the Foreign Relations land will have no difficulty absorbing this and Yemen. Committee, room SD–423. equipment and support into its armed forces. The proposed sale of this equipment and I appreciate her written statements There being no objection, the mate- to me regarding that and other stat- rial was ordered to be printed in the support will not alter the basic military balance in the region. utes, and I appreciate her commit- RECORD, as follows: Contracts will be awarded when necessary ments to be as transparent and respon- DEFENSE SECURITY to provide the defense articles ordered if sive to my office as possible. COOPERATION AGENCY, items ordered are not available from U.S. Before I conclude, allow me to offer a Arlington, VA. stock or are to be purchased further in the few words on the situation in Yemen. Hon. BOB CORKER, future. The potential prime contractors will Yemen is experiencing the world’s larg- Chairman, Committee on Foreign Relations, be Harris Corporation of Melbourne, Florida; U.S. Senate, Washington, DC. Boeing of Arlington, Virginia; UTC Aero- est food insecurity crisis. The U.N. Of- DEAR MR. CHAIRMAN: Pursuant to the re- space Systems, ISR Systems of Charlotte, fice for the Coordination of Humani- porting requirements of Section 36(b)(1) of North Carolina; Lockheed Martin Missile tarian Affairs published a report ear- the Arms Export Control Act, as amended, and Fire Control of Orlando, Florida; Cubic lier this month. The report found that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:33 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.041 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8145 almost 18 million people in Yemen are only with ‘‘intimate scandals.’’ He con- Congressman RUSSELL of Oklahoma. food insecure with more than 8 million tended that women would ‘‘introduce The House-passed version of that bill facing starvation. sex, affection, favoritism, protective- won the approval of the Homeland Se- The war and Saudi Arabia’s impedi- ness, jealously, anxiety and all the curity Committee earlier this year, and ments to the delivery of food, fuel, and other co-ed dynamics to an infantry that panel is seeking unanimous con- medicine are the primary causes for platoon.’’ sent to pass it. I support this legisla- this crisis. Saudi Arabia’s impediments These chauvinistic views have no tion, which is virtually identical to to humanitarian assistance in Yemen place in the Department of Defense, Senator PORTMAN’s bill, but I placed a violate international law, humani- particularly in positions of leadership. temporary hold on the House com- tarian principles, and U.S. law. They As Assistant Secretary of Defense for panion yesterday, so that we can find a also undermine U.S. national security Special Operations and Low Intensity way to pass that legislation and Kevin interests. Conflict, Mr. West will be responsible and Avonte’s Law simultaneously. Since March, I have taken a number for the integration of women into our By ensuring that both measures pass of steps to demand an end to the Saudi Special Operations Forces. I appreciate as one package, we can make addi- impediments to humanitarian assist- that Mr. West offered a retraction of tional resources available to equip first ance and to encourage the administra- his views on women in the military responders, law enforcement officials, tion to use its significant leverage with during his Senate confirmation hear- and other community leaders with the Riyadh. ing, at the behest of Democratic mem- training and tools necessary to better On December 6, the President said, ‘‘I bers of the Armed Services Committee, prevent and respond to missing person have directed officials in my Adminis- and it is my hope that Mr. West will do cases. By doing so, we also can make tration to call the leadership of the his utmost to support and recruit grants available to educate and train Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to request qualified women into the military in caregivers as well as other members of that they completely allow food, fuel, the future. However, many of President the community on how to prevent wan- water, and medicine to reach the Yem- Trump’s nominees have reneged on dering by those with dementia or de- eni people who desperately need it. commitments made during their con- velopmental disabilities. This must be done for humanitarian firmation hearings. Given Mr. West’s f reasons immediately.’’ public record on women in combat, I HEALTHCARE In my view, we now need to see ac- cannot take that risk by supporting his tion from the Saudis, not just assur- confirmation. Ms. CANTWELL. Madam President, I ances. f wish to call attention to several urgent The Saudis must finally and com- and bipartisan health programs that pletely end all impediments to the de- KEVIN AND AVONTE’S LAW Congress must renew without further livery and transport of humanitarian Mr. GRASSLEY. Madam President, delay. aid in Yemen. Each day costs many in the 114th Congress, we came very The Republican majority has spent lives and patience is running out in close to passing Kevin and Avonte’s much of this year trying to pass par- Washington. Law, a bill named in honor of two boys tisan healthcare and tax legislation. As If Saudi Arabia continues to be unre- with autism who wandered away from a result, they have neglected to extend sponsive to the President’s demands their caregivers and drowned. numerous uncontroversial healthcare and demands from Congress, failing to I reintroduced this legislation last programs, threatening these programs’ permit the delivery of the U.S. tax- month with Senators KLOBUCHAR, very existence and causing needless payer funded cranes to Yemen’s most TILLIS, SCHUMER, and others to equip chaos and uncertainty. important humanitarian port and con- communities with important tools to It is past time that the Republican- tinuing to block the delivery of com- help locate individuals who wander controlled Congress extend these pro- mercial fuel shipments, I stand ready away from their families or caregivers grams to provide healthcare access and to take legislative action. due to dementia or a developmental certainty to millions of Americans. I was proud to support Ms. disability. The bill we crafted adds new First, I would like to address the Newstead’s confirmation today, and I protections for children with develop- Children’s Health Insurance Program, look forward to working closely with mental disabilities, like autism, which CHIP. CHIP is a bipartisan healthcare her. are linked to wandering. success story. Enacted 20 years ago, Thank you. The original version of this bill, thanks to the leadership of Senate Fi- f which I authored with Senator SCHU- nance Committee Chairman ORRIN MER, passed both Chambers of Congress HATCH and the late Senator Ted Ken- CONFIRMATION OF OWEN WEST late last year. It passed this Chamber nedy, CHIP brings affordable health Mr. VAN HOLLEN. Madam Presi- by voice vote over a year ago, while a coverage to children in families who dent, equality of opportunity is one of similar House companion garnered are not eligible for Medicaid but strug- our Nation’s greatest pursuits and over 90 cosponsors before passing the gle to afford private insurance. greatest struggles. Though the path other Chamber, 346–66, last December. Washington’s successful CHIP pro- has not been easy, our society has Unfortunately, we ran out of time to gram, Apple Health for Kids, covers slowly and steadily become more just, resolve the differences between the two about 60,000 children. Through CHIP, more decent, and more powerful. Presi- Chamber’s versions before the 114th parents get peace of mind, and States dent Obama’s Defense Secretary Carter Congress adjourned. and the Federal Government pitch in reaffirmed this principle when he stat- This year, the Judiciary Committee to share the cost. ed that every qualified woman who met approved Kevin and Avonte’s Law by CHIP means affordable healthcare for the high physical standards required of voice vote, and, before reporting the 9 million children. On average, a fam- her would be allowed to serve our coun- bill to the full Senate last month, we ily of four pays $158 per year in pre- try in combat. reached bipartisan consensus on an off- miums and deductibles for each CHIP- Owen West soundly rejected this pol- set. Our offset consists of the Federal enrolled child. The same family would icy and the ethic undergirding it in an Register Printing Savings Act, which likely pay more than $1,000 in annual inflammatory opinion editorial au- Senator PORTMAN introduced earlier out-of-pocket costs on a commercial thored with his father in March of 2016. this year. Senator PORTMAN’s office insurance plan, even after counting He asserted that integrating women agreed to work with us and incorporate available financial help. That is a dif- into infantry platoons, including those S. 1195 into Kevin and Avonte’s Law. ference of more than $800 per year for who ‘‘could run circles around the av- We currently are seeking unanimous millions of families across the country erage Marine grunt’’ with their ‘‘phys- consent to pass both bills in one legis- and represents real affordability. ical prowess,’’ would ‘‘swiftly reduce lative package. Because of CHIP, children have a combat effectiveness.’’ He discounted Meanwhile, the House has passed its medical home. In fact, more than 90 the ability of women to contribute to own version of the Federal Register percent of Washington children with mission effectiveness, equating them Printing Savings Act, introduced by CHIP coverage visited a primary care

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:33 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.036 S19DEPT1 S8146 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 provider at least once in 2014, the most tional but equally important health also strongly bipartisan. I call on my recent year in which data were avail- programs. All enjoy a history of strong Republican colleagues to work with us able. CHIP also provides kids with ben- bipartisan support. These programs in- in a good-faith negotiation to extend efits that are often more comprehen- clude the Maternal, Infant, and Early these programs immediately. sive than those offered in the commer- Childhood Home Visiting Program, the f cial insurance market, including im- Special Diabetes Program, the Teach- TRIBUTE TO R. ANDREW MURRAY munizations, periodic screenings, hearing Health Center Program, and cer- ing exams, and dental care. We know tain Medicare provisions. Mr. TILLIS. Madam President, I con- that prevention and early detection are The Maternal, Infant, and Early gratulate Andrew Murray on his inves- key to reducing the burden of disease Childhood Home Visiting—MIECHV— titure as the U.S. Attorney for the and health costs. CHIP emphasizes Program is an evidence-based grant Western District of North Carolina. these early interventions during the that is helping States and Tribes im- Andrew graduated magna cum laude critical early years of a child’s life, prove early childhood and maternal from the University of North Carolina helping kids grow up to be healthy, health. MIECHV-funded home visiting at Charlotte with a bachelor of science productive, and successful adults. programs, which are voluntary, have in political science and received his Yet, despite CHIP’s near-universal benefited 1,650 Washington families in juris doctor from the University of popularity and lack of partisan con- 15 counties and have reduced in half North Carolina School of Law. Throughout his career, Andrew has troversy, this Congress has allowed the likelihood of child abuse and ne- dedicated himself to public service and CHIP to go unfunded since October 1, glect. MIECHV is a prime example of leadership. Andrew enlisted in the U.S. 2017. This long and unprecedented lapse evidence-driven policymaking that is Coast Guard in 1980 and retired in 2015, threatens CHIP’s very survival. Al- improving the health and well-being of serving his country faithfully for 35 ready, it has thrown States, including vulnerable mothers and children. It is years. During his service, he earned a Washington, into crippling uncertainty also strongly bipartisan. Unfortu- number of decorations, including the and administrative disruption. Some nately, MIECHV’s Federal funding ex- Coast Guard Meritorious Service States have been forced to send letters pired on October 1, 2017. The Special Diabetes Program and Medal, three Coast Guard Commenda- to CHIP families informing them that tion Medals, the Coast Guard Achieve- the Special Diabetes Program for Indi- their coverage will end. Moreover, if ment Medal, and the Coast Guard 9/11 ans are modest investments with a Congress fails to extend CHIP, my Service Medal. State will be on the hook for hundreds proven track record of combatting dia- Andrew began his legal career at the of millions of dollars to make up for betes. As a senior member of the Sen- Mecklenburg County District Attor- Congress’s failure to act. ate Diabetes Caucus, I recognize that ney’s Office as an assistant district at- Next, I would like to highlight the diabetes is a leading cause of death and torney. Later, he worked in private urgent need to reauthorize funding to a major driver of healthcare costs. In practice before being elected to serve community health centers. particular, the Special Diabetes Pro- as the district attorney of Mecklenburg Community health centers are a bed- gram for Indians supports 27 commu- County, North Carolina’s largest pros- rock of the healthcare safety net and nity-driven grant programs in Wash- ecutorial district. During his tenure as are the preferred medical home for tens ington’s Tribal communities, helping district attorney, he led the office with of millions of working Americans. Tribal members prevent, diagnose, and the utmost distinction and is highly re- Washington’s 26 community health manage this condition through life- spected for his leadership. centers serve 1 million people in every style changes, counseling, and treat- I am proud that Andrew is willing to corner of my State, from Spokane to ment. continue serving western North Caro- Seattle, Omak to Port Angeles. The Teaching Health Center Program lina in a new role as U.S. Attorney. Community health centers are a lean is also a small investment with a big Western North Carolina is lucky to and efficient healthcare delivery return. Teaching Health Center funds have such an experienced prosecutor model, focusing on primary care, pre- are currently being used to train 722 and effective leader to command this vention, case management and social primary care medical residents in 27 important office. He is a dedicated pub- services for their patients. They are States and the District of Columbia. lic servant whose extensive prosecu- also good for the economy, supporting Data show that many physicians even- torial experience and relationships more than 9,000 jobs and $1 billion in tually practice close to where they with law enforcement will bolster the annual economic output in my State train, and the Teaching Health Center mission of the Department of Justice alone. Program is training physicians where and promote public safety. The Community Health Center Fund, they are needed most. In Spokane, Senator BURR and I proudly rec- which comprises the majority of these Toppenish, Tacoma, Yakima, and Au- ommended Andrew to President health centers’ Federal funds, expired burn, Teaching Health Centers are Trump, and I know that he will lead on October 1, 2017. As a result, commu- training a new generation of safety-net the U.S. Attorney’s Office with honor. nity health centers in my State are at physicians to serve those most in need. f risk of having to turn off the lights and While the Teaching Health Center Pro- turn away patients. Already, the expi- gram has received a short-term exten- TRIBUTE TO STEVE JOHNSON ration of the Community Health Cen- sion, its funding will expire on January Mr. SHELBY. Madam President, ter Fund has threatened these centers’ 1, 2018, if Congress does not act. today I wish to pay tribute to Steve ability to retain and hire nurses and Lastly, several temporary Medicare Johnson who is retiring on December doctors and make financial arrange- provisions have expired and must be re- 22, 2017, from his position as the man- ments for the coming year. newed. These provisions help rural ager of the U.S. Senate Dining Room. The Community Health Center Fund Medicare patients get hospital, ambu- Mr. Johnson is a well-respected mem- was enacted in 2010 so that millions of lance, and home health services where ber of the Senate family. For over two newly covered Americans would have a they live. Additional Medicare ‘‘ex- decades, Mr. Johnson has managed the medical home. The fund is doing just tenders’’ prevent essential services like Senate Dining Room with care, enthu- that. Moreover, the Community Health physical therapy from being arbitrarily siasm, poise, and the utmost hospi- Center Fund was extended with strong capped for Medicare patients. Extend- tality. He understands the rich history bipartisan support in 2015, when an ing these provisions is important to and importance of this institution and overwhelming majority of the House preserving healthcare access in rural has witnessed much of its tradition and Senate, myself included, supported Washington State and empowering our over the years, serving Supreme Court its extension as part of the Medicare healthcare delivery system to continue Justices, Vice Presidents, and many of and CHIP Reauthorization Act, to improve and innovate. my Senate colleagues. MACRA. It is past time for Congress to The programs I have highlighted and Starting in 1995, Mr. Johnson’s lead- extend this program without delay. many more are vital to my constitu- ership has kept the Senate Dining In addition, Federal funds have been ents, my State’s economy, and our Room running smoothly and effi- allowed to expire for a number of addi- healthcare delivery system. They are ciently. Whether it is tallying receipts

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:34 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.038 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8147 at the end of the day or providing spe- munity in a dispute with a Federal Susan served as my acting adminis- cialized off-menu items to guests, ev- agency over how to best address min- trative assistant during my last year erything Mr. Johnson does is done with ing cleanup. He was also heavily in- in the House. Then, in the Senate, she the utmost attention to detail. Mr. volved in addressing problems a timber served as my communications director Johnson treats everyone the same and company in southeast Idaho was hav- until June 2011, when she earned the always maintains a high level of pro- ing with another Federal agency. John job of chief of staff-DC. She proved her- fessionalism. intervened on the company’s behalf self someone who can always be count- Mr. Johnson’s work ethic and perse- and helped resolve the issues. These are ed on for a straightforward and rea- verance are visible throughout his per- just a few of the many achievements soned approach, no matter the situa- sonal life as well. In addition to his im- John has assisted with for Idahoans. tion or the audience. She helped make pressive tenure, he has completed 18 Every step of the way, John has been the office more effective and has been marathons while working in the Senate there with reasoned counsel and a integral to improving the way our of- Dining Room, including the Boston great sense of the bigger picture. I fice communicates with Idahoans. Marathon a total of seven times. serve the people of Idaho in Wash- She improved the quality of the com- My colleagues and I would like to ex- ington, DC, and I believe in strong ties munication in my office, both exter- press our sincere thanks and gratitude to the State. Although it seems to be a nally and within the office. Her exten- for Mr. Johnson’s 22 years of service. less common arrangement to have a sive work making the website a better His institutional knowledge and unpar- chief of staff based in the State, I have resource for Idahoans has also resulted alleled courtesy are greatly appre- been fortunate to have a principal in it being recognized through multiple ciated and will be deeply missed. member of my staff based in Boise awards. Another of her achievements is Please join me in wishing Mr. Johnson fulltime and centrally involved in the focus she has given to establishing and his wife, Joanne, a long and Idaho issues. His deep knowledge, un- office procedures and working with healthy retirement. derstanding of Idaho, and ability to ef- Senate administrative offices to fine- f fectively represent me have been bene- tune policies that enable smooth office ficial. John is well respected in all cor- TRIBUTE TO JOHN E. HOEHNE, JR. operations. She also serves as a great ners of our great State. In an era and example of leadership, communicating Mr. CRAPO. Madam President, today political environment where turnover well with staff, and empowering them I wish to honor a longtime and vital is common, John’s 25 years of com- to share insight. While helping me be- member of my staff, John E. Hoehne, mitted service is a testament to his come more effective, Susan has also Jr., for serving the people of Idaho and deep dedication to Idahoans. taken the time to mentor countless our Nation for 25 years, both as my Thank you, John, for your extraor- staff and help young people start their chief of staff during my service in the dinary counsel and friendship all these careers. U.S. House of Representatives and as years. From day one, no matter the job my chief of staff during my service in f title, Susan has always been a senior the U.S. Senate. counselor with trusted insight given John has been with me since before TRIBUTE TO SUSAN HAWKES WHEELER her deep familiarity with Idaho, experi- the beginning of my congressional ence, and sound judgement. service, leading my first congressional Mr. CRAPO. Madam President, today Thank you, Susan, for dedicating so campaign. He officially became my I wish to honor Susan Hawkes Wheeler, much of your time and talent to serv- chief of staff when I was sworn into of- chief of staff for my Washington, DC, ing the people of Idaho in Congress and fice in the U.S. House of Representa- office, for her 25 years of congressional for your strong support and steady tives in January of 1993. His encourage- service. Susan’s trusted, dedicated, and friendship. ment, wise counsel, and friendship have perceptive counsel have been of great f been invaluable in decisionmaking and value throughout my congressional advancing policy and legislative objec- service. ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS tives. I cannot thank him enough for Susan is a native of Idaho and has al- his dedication and ongoing assistance. ways had the Gem State’s interests in John has contributed greatly to all the forefront of her mind. I am fortu- RECOGNIZING DOUBLE L aspects of my work, and he has helped nate that she chose to serve Idaho ∑ Mr. RISCH. Madam President, my advance countless legislative and pol- through my office. I first met Susan great State of Idaho is known for excel- icy efforts of importance for Idaho. He when she worked as a television re- ling in many areas. We are a proud in- is instrumental in his work on first porter and news manager in Boise and cubator of the American entrepre- protecting Idaho’s water sovereignty Idaho Falls. She covered me when I neurial spirit, with Idaho consistently and economy while trying to find a first ran for public office. Later, after a being ranked as one of the friendliest consensus solution to anadromous fish job interview on a twin-engine plane States in the Nation for small busi- recovery. He works to preserve Idaho’s flying between Boise and Twin Falls, I nesses. Idaho is also renowned for our natural resources and quality of life. hired her to help me get elected to Con- State vegetable, the potato. Millions of His passion for collaborative problem- gress. Her sharp wit and directness was people around the world know that solving in addressing natural resources and is refreshing and effective. Idaho potatoes are in a class of their challenges has helped give collabo- After my election to the U.S. House own. It is only natural that the innova- rative efforts every opportunity to suc- of Representatives, Susan joined my tion that Idaho is known for would lead ceed. John has been a driving force in congressional staff as press secretary a small business on a mission to assist bringing stakeholders with often di- and moved from Idaho to Washington, potato farmers. As the chairman of the verging viewpoints to the table to build DC. This was back at a time when faxes Senate Committee on Small Business common ground and has helped provide still came on thermal curly paper and and Entrepreneurship, it is my pleas- room for stakeholders to talk and re- speed dials were limited to 10 numbers ure to recognize Double L as the Sen- solve concerns rather than resort to per machine. Radio actualities were ate Small Business of the Month for litigation. His involvement was essen- done by actually splicing audiotape December 2017. Double L maintains a tial in the enactment and implementa- and calling each radio station sepa- global presence while staying true to tion of the Owyhee Initiative and has rately to play the soundbite for them the core values of its farming roots in been of great assistance with other col- over the phone line, which was a order to enable potato farmers to in- laborative efforts, such as the Clear- landline. As technologies advanced, she crease production, expand their har- water Basin Collaborative. met those changes with imaginative vest, and to achieve their American John has also been at the forefront of approaches and implemented innova- Dream. helping Idahoans who have had chal- tive ways to improve communications Double L was originally founded in lenges with Federal agencies. Earlier and outreach with Idahoans. Her re- 1976 by potato growers Leland Klinger in his tenure, he helped get reason to sponsibilities also increased in my of- and Lynn Johnson, who initially start- prevail to the benefit of an Idaho com- fice. ed the company by building equipment

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:46 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00075 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.107 S19DEPT1 S8148 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 that would meet their own specific Idaho potatoes as well. I look forward During my years as Governor, I had needs after being disappointed with the to watching the continued success of the daily pleasure of looking out on machines currently on the market. It this strong Idaho business.∑ our beautiful State library from my of- was this entrepreneurial spirit that f fice windows in the State capitol. Both drove the two to expand into other 300TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NEW the building and its collection are handling equipment, and the rest is HAMPSHIRE STATE LIBRARY among our State’s most prized cultural history. In the years since then, Double ∑ Mrs. SHAHEEN. Madam President, treasures. I am grateful to State librar- L has never lost the original manufac- New Hampshire takes pride in its many ian Michael York and his professional turing mindset with which the com- firsts among the States, including our staff for their dedicated service to our pany was founded, while the company first in the Nation Presidential pri- State and for their loving stewardship and its employees have certainly ex- mary. This year, Granite Staters have of this special building. I join with peo- panded their horizons. ple across the Granite State in cele- In 2004, Chris Hunsaker became CEO been celebrating the 300th anniversary of the New Hampshire State Library, brating the first 300 years of America’s of Double L and immediately sought an first State library.∑ expansion of both manufacturing and the first State library in America. It all began in Portsmouth on January 25, clientele, leading the company to move f from its original home in American 1717, when the 27th General Assembly directed ‘‘ye Law books be distributed Falls to Heyburn, ID. With the up- TRIBUTE TO CONNOR BARRETT among ye severall towns of this Prov- bringing of a farmer and the training of ∑ Mr. THUNE. Madam President, today a salesman, Chris has ensured that ince in proportion according to their last Prov. tax, except two books which I recognize the hard work of my Com- Double L has remained steadfast in its merce, Science, and Transportation commitment to personalized service shall be for ye use of ye Govr & Councile and house of representatives.’’ Committee intern Connor Barrett. Con- for each customer. For example, Dou- nor hails from Bend, OR, and is an as- ble L does not maintain a standing in- Three centuries later, the original books are surrounded by a modern col- piring law student. ventory. Each order is built per the While interning for the Commerce customer’s specific wants and needs. lection of more than 600,000 items, housed across from the State house in Committee, Connor assisted the Sub- Additionally, Double L has a commit- committee on Surface Transportation. ment to excellence from providing a Concord. The State Library is one of our most handsome public buildings, He is a dedicated worker who was com- safe working environment for their em- built in 1896 of New Hampshire granite, mitted to getting the most out of his ployees, to catering to the unique American steel, and Italian marble. internship. I extend my sincere thanks needs of farmers and the equipment We Granite Staters love our libraries, and appreciation to Connor for all of that they need. This company has and we have led the Nation in making the fine work he did for the committee proven consistently over time that, books available to all citizens. As and wish him continued success in the when the market sees a demand for a State librarian Michael York told New years to come.∑ particular product or service, it is Hampshire Public Radio: ‘‘We often use American entrepreneurs like those at the term ‘anchor institutions.’ There f Double L who will provide the solution. are 234 communities in New Hampshire With considerable success and trust and there are 234 public libraries. No- MESSAGES FROM THE PRESIDENT earned from Double L’s loyal clients, body else can make that claim. Not the company is still moving forward. Messages from the President of the McDonald’s, not 7–11, not Dunkin’ United States were communicated to Double L has shipped its equipment Donuts.’’ built in the United States to countries the Senate by Ms. Ridgway, one of his In 1833, Peterborough established the secretaries. such as China, Thailand, New Zealand, first tax-supported public library in the Australia, Turkey, Egypt, and Israel. world, a central collection of books f This equipment has enabled farmers all owned by the people and free to all across the globe who just a few years residents of the town. In the early EXECUTIVE MESSAGES REFERRED ago were harvesting their potatoes by 1800s, so-called social or parlor librar- As in executive session the Presiding hand to now efficiently complete their ies sprang up across our State—places Officer laid before the Senate messages harvest using the equipment designed where dues-paying members came to- from the President of the United for their unique farms and crop yields, gether to share books. A century later, States submitting sundry nominations helping them to become sustainable wealthy philanthropists built free pub- which were referred to the appropriate farmers. That simple commitment to lic libraries all across our State, in- committees. providing solutions for growers to be cluding nine impressive Carnegie li- (The messages received today are more effective with their harvesting braries. Phillips Exeter Academy, a printed at the end of the Senate pro- and storage of crops is what allows private school in Exeter, NH, is home ceedings.) Double L to be the successful business to the largest secondary school library that it is today. in the world. Today every city and f As a company with a global presence town in New Hampshire has a public li- rooted in the growing and handling brary, and a key mission of the State MESSAGES FROM THE HOUSE practices of the Gem State potato library is to provide professional devel- farmers, Double L is a prime example opment for local librarians to keep At 10:20 a.m., a message from the of the American entrepreneurial spirit them abreast of the latest develop- House of Representatives, delivered by that works to find innovative solutions ments in library science and tech- Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- to empower consumers. By providing nologies. nounced that the House has passed the quality customer service, cultivating The State library serves as a central- following bills, in which it requests the strong working relationships, and ized location for State and government concurrence of the Senate: maintaining longevity of over 10 years documents, and its collection special- H.R. 3759. An act to provide for the estab- with many of their employees, Double izes in New Hampshire newspapers, au- lishment and maintenance of a Family L has shown that not only can they thors, and books on New Hampshire Caregiving Strategy, and for other purposes. H.R. 3979. An act to amend the Fish and manufacture powerful machines and history and culture. It includes an ar- Wildlife Act of 1956 to reauthorize the volun- solutions, but that they are in fact one chive of Granite State political his- teer services, community partnership, and of the many small businesses that are tory, including posters, buttons, and refuge education programs of the National driving the American economy for- bumper stickers from New Hampshire Wildlife Refuge System, and for other pur- ward. I would like to extend my sin- Presidential primaries dating back to poses. cerest congratulations to Chris and all 1952. One of its most prized possessions H.R. 4661. An act to reauthorize the United of the employees at Double L for being is a 20-foot, floor-to-ceiling ‘‘Hitchcock States Fire Administration, the Assistance to Firefighters Grants program, the Fire selected as the December 2017 Small map’’ of New Hampshire, with the Prevention and Safety Grants program, and Business of the Month. Not only do you State’s mountains, valleys, and lakes the Staffing for Adequate Fire and Emer- make our great State proud, but you carved in relief by Dartmouth Col- gency Response grant program, and for other also allow for millions more to enjoy lege—students in 1877. purposes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:12 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00076 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G19DE6.106 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8149 The message further announced that INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND the House has agreed to the following JOINT RESOLUTIONS SENATE RESOLUTIONS concurrent resolution, in which it re- The following bills and joint resolu- By Mr. ROBERTS: quests the concurrence of the Senate: tions were introduced, read the first S. Con. Res. 31. A concurrent resolution au- H. Con. Res. 95. Concurrent resolution ex- and second times by unanimous con- thorizing the use of the rotunda of the Cap- pressing support for the use of public-private sent, and referred as indicated: itol for a ceremony to award the Congres- partnerships to bring computer science edu- sional Gold Medal to Bob Dole; considered cation to more K–12 classrooms. By Mr. NELSON (for himself and Mr. and agreed to. RUBIO): f At 3:07 p.m., a message from the S. 2246. A bill to designate the health care House of Representatives, delivered by center of the Department of Veterans Affairs ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS in Tallahassee, Florida, as the Sergeant Er- S. 109 Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- nest I. ‘‘Boots’’ Thomas VA Clinic, and for nounced that the House agreed to the other purposes; to the Committee on Vet- At the request of Mr. GRASSLEY, the report of the committee of conference erans’ Affairs. name of the Senator from Washington on the disagreeing votes of the two By Mr. HELLER (for himself and Mr. (Ms. CANTWELL) was added as a cospon- Houses on the amendment of the Sen- TESTER): sor of S. 109, a bill to amend title XVIII ate to the bill (H.R. 1) to provide for S. 2247. A bill to amend title 38, United of the Social Security Act to provide reconciliation pursuant to titles II and States Code, to provide for a consistent eligi- for coverage under the Medicare pro- V of the concurrent resolution on the bility date for provision of Department of gram of pharmacist services. Veterans Affairs memorial headstones and S. 294 budget for fiscal year 2018. markers for eligible spouses and dependent At the request of Mr. NELSON, the f children of veterans whose remains are un- name of the Senator from South Caro- MEASURES REFERRED available, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. lina (Mr. GRAHAM) was added as a co- The following bill was read the first By Mr. TESTER (for himself, Mr. sponsor of S. 294, a bill to amend the and the second times by unanimous HELLER, and Mr. UDALL): Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act consent, and referred as indicated: S. 2248. A bill to amend title 38, United to clarify the Food and Drug Adminis- H.R. 3759. An act to provide for the estab- States Code, to authorize the Secretary of tration’s jurisdiction over certain to- lishment and maintenance of a Family Veterans Affairs to provide certain burial bacco products, and to protect jobs and Caregiving Strategy, and for other purposes; benefits for spouses and children of veterans small businesses involved in the sale, to the Committee on Health, Education, who are buried in tribal cemeteries, and for manufacturing and distribution of tra- Labor, and Pensions. other purposes; to the Committee on Vet- ditional and premium cigars. erans’ Affairs. The following concurrent resolution By Mr. UDALL (for himself and Mr. S. 497 was read, and referred as indicated: HEINRICH): At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the H. Con. Res. 95. Concurrent resolution ex- S. 2249. A bill to permanently reauthorize name of the Senator from New Jersey pressing support for the use of public-private the Rio Puerco Management Committee and (Mr. MENENDEZ) was added as a cospon- partnerships to bring computer science edu- the Rio Puerco Watershed Management Pro- sor of S. 497, a bill to amend title XVIII cation to more K–12 classrooms; to the Com- gram; to the Committee on Energy and Nat- of the Social Security Act to provide mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and ural Resources. for Medicare coverage of certain Pensions. By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself, Ms. lymphedema compression treatment f HIRONO, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. items as items of durable medical SCHATZ, Mr. BOOKER, and Mrs. FEIN- EXECUTIVE REPORTS OF STEIN): equipment. COMMITTEE S. 2250. A bill to ensure due process protec- S. 654 At the request of Mr. TOOMEY, the The following executive reports of tions of individuals in the United States against unlawful detention based solely on a name of the Senator from Washington nominations were submitted: protected characteristic; to the Committee (Ms. CANTWELL) was added as a cospon- By Mr. CRAPO for the Committee on on the Judiciary. sor of S. 654, a bill to revise section 48 Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. By Mrs. SHAHEEN (for herself and Ms. of title 18, United States Code, and for Mark L. Greenblatt, of Maryland, to be In- HASSAN): other purposes. spector General, Export-Import Bank. S. 2251. A bill to require the United States *Spencer Bachus III, of Alabama, to be a Postal Service to designate a single, unique S. 793 Member of the Board of Directors of the Ex- ZIP code for Swanzey, New Hampshire; to At the request of Mr. BOOKER, the port-Import Bank of the United States for a the Committee on Homeland Security and names of the Senator from New Mexico term expiring January 20, 2019. Governmental Affairs. (Mr. UDALL), the Senator from Hawaii *Spencer Bachus III, of Alabama, to be a By Mr. TESTER: (Ms. HIRONO) and the Senator from Illi- Member of the Board of Directors of the Ex- S. 2252. A bill to amend the Animal Health nois (Mr. DURBIN) were added as co- port-Import Bank of the United States for a Protection Act to support State and Tribal sponsors of S. 793, a bill to prohibit sale term expiring January 20, 2023. efforts to develop and implement manage- of shark fins, and for other purposes. *Judith Delzoppo Pryor, of Ohio, to be a ment strategies to address chronic wasting S. 842 Member of the Board of Directors of the Ex- disease among deer, elk, and moose popu- port-Import Bank of the United States for a lations, to support research regarding the At the request of Mr. BOOKER, the term expiring January 20, 2021. causes of chronic wasting disease and meth- name of the Senator from Illinois (Ms. *Kimberly A. Reed, of West Virginia, to be ods to control the further spread of the dis- DUCKWORTH) was added as a cosponsor First Vice President of the Export-Import ease, and for other purposes; to the Com- of S. 842, a bill to prohibit Federal Bank of the United States for a term expir- mittee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and For- agencies and Federal contractors from ing January 20, 2021. estry. requesting that an applicant for em- *Claudia Slacik, of New York, to be a By Ms. STABENOW (for herself, Ms. ployment disclose criminal history Member of the Board of Directors of the Ex- WARREN, and Mr. MARKEY): port-Import Bank of the United States for a record information before the appli- S. 2253. A bill to amend title XXI of the So- cant has received a conditional offer, term expiring January 20, 2019. cial Security Act to ensure access to mental *Claudia Slacik, of New York, to be a health services for children under the Chil- and for other purposes. Member of the Board of Directors of the Ex- dren’s Health Insurance Program, and for S. 1063 port-Import Bank of the United States for a other purposes; to the Committee on Fi- At the request of Mr. BROWN, the term expiring January 20, 2023. nance. name of the Senator from Vermont *Nomination was reported with rec- By Mr. MENENDEZ (for himself, Mr. (Mr. SANDERS) was added as a cospon- ommendation that it be confirmed sub- BOOKER, Mr. CARDIN, Mrs. MURRAY, sor of S. 1063, a bill to amend the Pub- ject to the nominee’s commitment to Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, lic Health Service Act to establish di- respond to requests to appear and tes- Ms. HARRIS, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, and rect care registered nurse-to-patient tify before any duly constituted com- Mrs. FEINSTEIN): staffing ratio requirements in hos- S. 2254. A bill to prevent unfair double tax- mittee of the Senate. ation by ensuring that the deduction for pitals, and for other purposes. (Nominations without an asterisk State and local taxes is not reduced, sus- S. 1142 were reported with the recommenda- pended, or eliminated; to the Committee on At the request of Mr. CASSIDY, the tion that they be confirmed.) Finance. name of the Senator from Louisiana

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:46 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00077 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.008 S19DEPT1 S8150 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE December 19, 2017 (Mr. KENNEDY) was added as a cospon- Massachusetts (Mr. MARKEY) were 2167, a bill to require the Secretary of sor of S. 1142, a bill to extend the dead- added as cosponsors of S. 1989, a bill to the Treasury to make certifications line for commencement of construction enhance transparency and account- with respect to United States and for- of certain hydroelectric projects. ability for online political advertise- eign financial institutions’ aircraft-re- S. 1263 ments by requiring those who purchase lated transactions involving Iran, and At the request of Mr. BOOKER, the and publish such ads to disclose infor- for other purposes. mation about the advertisements to name of the Senator from Michigan S. 2174 (Mr. PETERS) was added as a cosponsor the public, and for other purposes. At the request of Mr. YOUNG, the of S. 1263, a bill to amend the Outer S. 1990 names of the Senator from Massachu- Continental Shelf Lands Act to pro- At the request of Mr. TESTER, the setts (Ms. WARREN) and the Senator hibit oil-, gas-, and methane hydrate- name of the Senator from Delaware from Arkansas (Mr. BOOZMAN) were related seismic activities in the North (Mr. COONS) was added as a cosponsor added as cosponsors of S. 2174, a bill to Atlantic, Mid-Atlantic, South Atlantic, of S. 1990, a bill to amend title 38, direct the Secretary of Veterans Af- and Straits of Florida planning areas of United States Code, to increase the fairs to conduct a study on the Vet- the outer Continental Shelf, and for amounts payable by the Department of erans Crisis Line. other purposes. Veterans Affairs for dependency and in- S. 1503 demnity compensation, to modify the S. 2194 At the request of Ms. WARREN, the requirements for dependency and in- At the request of Ms. CANTWELL, the name of the Senator from Indiana (Mr. demnity compensation for survivors of names of the Senator from Michigan DONNELLY) was added as a cosponsor of certain veterans rated totally disabled (Ms. STABENOW) and the Senator from S. 1503, a bill to require the Secretary at the time of death, and for other pur- Oregon (Mr. WYDEN) were added as co- of the Treasury to mint coins in rec- poses. sponsors of S. 2194, a bill to remove a ognition of the 60th anniversary of the S. 2046 limitation on a prohibition relating to Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of At the request of Mrs. MURRAY, the permits for discharges incidental to Fame. name of the Senator from Nebraska normal operation of vessels. S. 1524 (Mr. SASSE) was added as a cosponsor of S. 2046, a bill to amend titles 5 and S. 2236 At the request of Mr. BOOKER, the At the request of Mrs. GILLIBRAND, name of the Senator from Illinois (Ms. 44, United States Code, to require Fed- eral evaluation activities, improve the names of the Senator from Indiana DUCKWORTH) was added as a cosponsor (Mr. DONNELLY), the Senator from Col- of S. 1524, a bill to improve the treat- Federal data management, and for orado (Mr. BENNET) and the Senator ment of Federal prisoners who are pri- other purposes. from Oregon (Mr. WYDEN) were added mary caretaker parents, and for other S. 2070 as cosponsors of S. 2236, a bill to re- purposes. At the request of Ms. KLOBUCHAR, the name of the Senator from New York quire covered discrimination and cov- S. 1627 (Mrs. GILLIBRAND) was added as a co- ered harassment awareness and preven- At the request of Mrs. GILLIBRAND, sponsor of S. 2070, a bill to amend the tion training for Members, officers, the name of the Senator from New Jer- Violent Crime Control and Law En- employees, interns, fellows, and sey (Mr. BOOKER) was added as a co- forcement Act of 1994, to reauthorize detailees of Congress within 30 days of sponsor of S. 1627, a bill to extend the the Missing Alzheimer’s Disease Pa- employment and annually thereafter, authorization of the Highlands Con- tient Alert Program, and to promote to require a biennial climate survey of servation Act. initiatives that will reduce the risk of Congress, to amend the enforcement S. 1845 injury and death relating to the wan- process under the Office of Congres- At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the dering characteristics of some children sional Workplace Rights for covered name of the Senator from Virginia (Mr. with autism. discrimination and covered harassment KAINE) was added as a cosponsor of S. S. 2088 complaints, and for other purposes. 1845, a bill to amend the Lead-Based At the request of Mrs. FISCHER, the Paint Poisoning Prevention Act to pro- name of the Senator from Connecticut f vide for additional procedures for fami- (Mr. BLUMENTHAL) was added as a co- lies with children under the age of 6, sponsor of S. 2088, a bill to amend title SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS and for other purposes. 10, United States Code, to provide for S. 1901 the issuance of the Gold Star Installa- At the request of Mr. GARDNER, the tion Access Card to the surviving name of the Senator from Texas (Mr. spouse, dependent children, and other SENATE CONCURRENT RESOLU- CRUZ) was added as a cosponsor of S. next of kin of a member of the Armed TION 31—AUTHORIZING THE USE 1901, a bill to require global economic Forces who dies while serving on cer- OF THE ROTUNDA OF THE CAP- and political pressure to support diplo- tain active or reserve duty, to ensure ITOL FOR A CEREMONY TO matic denuclearization of the Korean that a remarried surviving spouse with AWARD THE CONGRESSIONAL Peninsula, including through the impo- dependent children of the deceased GOLD MEDAL TO BOB DOLE sition of sanctions with respect to the member remains eligible for installa- Mr. ROBERTS submitted the fol- Government of the Democratic Peo- tion benefits to which the surviving lowing concurrent resolution; which ple’s Republic of Korea and any spouse was previously eligible, and for was considered and agreed to: enablers of the activities of that Gov- other purposes. ernment, and to reauthorize the North S. 2135 S. CON. RES. 31 Korean Human Rights Act of 2004, and At the request of Mr. CORNYN, the Resolved by the Senate (the House of Rep- for other purposes. names of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. resentatives concurring), S. 1933 BROWN), the Senator from Iowa (Mrs. SECTION 1. USE OF THE ROTUNDA OF THE CAP- At the request of Mr. DURBIN, the ERNST), the Senator from Kansas (Mr. ITOL FOR CEREMONY TO AWARD names of the Senator from Massachu- MORAN) and the Senator from Rhode Is- THE CONGRESSIONAL GOLD MEDAL TO BOB DOLE. setts (Ms. WARREN) and the Senator land (Mr. WHITEHOUSE) were added as from Connecticut (Mr. MURPHY) were cosponsors of S. 2135, a bill to enforce (a) AUTHORIZATION.—The rotunda of the added as cosponsors of S. 1933, a bill to current law regarding the National In- Capitol is authorized to be used on January focus limited Federal resources on the stant Criminal Background Check Sys- 17, 2018, for a ceremony to award the Con- gressional Gold Medal to Bob Dole. most serious offenders. tem. (b) PREPARATIONS.—Physical preparations S. 1989 S. 2167 for the conduct of the ceremony described in At the request of Ms. KLOBUCHAR, the At the request of Mr. CRUZ, the name subsection (a) shall be carried out in accord- names of the Senator from Washington of the Senator from Texas (Mr. COR- ance with such conditions as may be pre- (Mrs. MURRAY) and the Senator from NYN) was added as a cosponsor of S. scribed by the Architect of the Capitol.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:46 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00078 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE6.012 S19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S8151 AMENDMENTS SUBMITTED AND ing on the following nominations: ORDERS FOR WEDNESDAY, PROPOSED Peter Hendrick Vrooman, of New York, DECEMBER 20, 2017 SA 1863. Mr. ENZI proposed an amendment to be Ambassador to the Republic of Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, to the bill H.R. 1, to provide for reconcili- Rwanda, and Joel Danies, of Maryland, I ask unanimous consent that when the ation pursuant to titles II and V of the con- to be Ambassador to the Gabonese Re- Senate completes its business today, it current resolution on the budget for fiscal public, and to serve concurrently and adjourn until 11 a.m. on Wednesday, year 2018. without additional compensation as December 20; further, that following f Ambassador to the Democratic Repub- the prayer and pledge, the morning lic of Sao Tome and Principe, both of TEXT OF AMENDMENTS hour be deemed expired, the Journal of the Department of State. proceedings be approved to date, and SA 1863. Mr. ENZI proposed an COMMITTEE ON RULES the time for the two leaders be re- amendment to the bill H.R. 1, to pro- The Committee on Rules is author- served for their use later in the day; fi- vide for reconciliation pursuant to ti- ized to meet during the session of the nally, that following leader remarks, tles II and V of the concurrent resolu- Senate on Tuesday, December 19, 2017, the Senate be in a period of morning tion on the budget for fiscal year 2018; at 2:30 p.m. to conduct a hearing enti- business, with Senators permitted to as follows: tled ‘‘A resolution to improve proce- speak therein for up to 10 minutes (The text of the Conference Report (H. dures for the consideration of nomina- each. Rept. 115–466) to accompany H.R. 1 is printed tion in the Senate’’. in the proceedings of the House in the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there RECORD of December 15, 2017. The text of the f objection? amendment is the text of the Conference Re- Without objection, it is so ordered. port with the following provisions stricken: PRIVILEGES OF THE FLOOR f Section 11000, subsection (a); Mr. MURPHY. Mr. President, I ask Section 11032, subparagraph (B); and ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 11 A.M. unanimous consent that Nellie Jafari, The phrase ‘‘tuition-paying’’ in Section TODAY 13701.) a health fellow in my office, be granted floor privileges for the remainder of Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, f the 115th Congress. if there is no further business to come AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without before the Senate, I ask unanimous MEET objection, it is so ordered. consent that it stand adjourned under the previous order. Mr. ENZI. Mr. President, I have 3 re- f quests for committees to meet during There being no objection, the Senate, today’s session of the Senate. They AUTHORIZING USE OF THE at 12:53 a.m., adjourned until Wednes- have the approval of the Majority and CAPITOL ROTUNDA day, December 20, 2017, at 11 a.m. Minority leaders. Mr. MCCONNELL. Madam President, f Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph I ask unanimous consent that the Sen- NOMINATIONS 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- ate proceed to the consideration of S. ate, the following committees are au- Con. Res. 31, submitted earlier today. Executive nominations received by thorized to meet during today’s session The PRESIDING OFFICER. The the Senate: of the Senate: clerk will report the concurrent resolu- DEPARTMENT OF ENERGY COMMITTEE ON BANKING, HOUSING, AND URBAN tion by title. LISA GORDON–HAGERTY, OF VIRGINIA, TO BE UNDER AFFAIRS SECRETARY FOR NUCLEAR SECURITY, DEPARTMENT OF The legislative clerk read as follows: ENERGY, VICE FRANK G. KLOTZ, RESIGNED. The Committee on Banking, Housing, A concurrent resolution (S. Con. Res. 31) DEPARTMENT OF STATE and Urban Affairs is authorized to authorizing the use of the rotunda of the ANDREA L. THOMPSON, OF SOUTH DAKOTA, TO BE meet during the session of the Senate Capitol for a ceremony to award the Con- UNDER SECRETARY OF STATE FOR ARMS CONTROL AND on Tuesday, December 19, 2017, at 10 gressional Gold Medal to Bob Dole. INTERNATIONAL SECURITY, VICE ROSE EILENE GOTTEMOELLER RESIGNED. a.m. to conduct a hearing on the fol- There being no objection, the Senate SUSAN A. THORNTON, OF MAINE, A CAREER MEMBER lowing nominations: Scott Garrett, of proceeded to consider the concurrent OF THE SENIOR FOREIGN SERVICE, CLASS OF MINISTER– COUNSELOR, TO BE AN ASSISTANT SECRETARY OF New Jersey, to be President, Kimberly resolution. STATE (EAST ASIAN AND PACIFIC AFFAIRS), VICE DAN- A. Reed, of West Virginia, to be First Mr. MCCONNELL. I ask unanimous IEL R. RUSSEL. Vice President, Mark L. Greenblatt, of consent that the concurrent resolution DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION Maryland, to be Inspector General, and be agreed to and the motion to recon- FRANK T. BROGAN, OF PENNSYLVANIA, TO BE ASSIST- Spencer Bachus III, of Alabama, Judith ANT SECRETARY FOR ELEMENTARY AND SECONDARY sider be considered made and laid upon EDUCATION, DEPARTMENT OF EDUCATION, VICE DEBO- Delzoppo Pryor, of Ohio, and Claudia the table with no intervening action or RAH S. DELISLE, RESIGNED. Slacik, of New York, each to be a Mem- debate. f ber of the Board of Directors, all of the The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Export-Import Bank. objection, it is so ordered. CONFIRMATION COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS The concurrent resolution (S. Con. Executive nomination confirmed by The Committee on Foreign Relations Res. 31) was agreed to. the Senate December 19, 2017: is authorized to meet during the ses- (The concurrent resolution is printed DEPARTMENT OF STATE sion of the Senate on Tuesday, Decem- in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Submitted JENNIFER GILLIAN NEWSTEAD, OF NEW YORK, TO BE ber 19, 2017, at 2 p.m. to conduct a hear- Resolutions.’’) LEGAL ADVISER OF THE DEPARTMENT OF STATE.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:02 Mar 28, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00079 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 9801 E:\RECORD17\DECEMBER\S19DE7.REC S19DE7 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1723 EXTENSIONS OF REMARKS

IN HONOR OF ARLENE SHERMAN’S voted against this bill a few weeks ago and PERSONAL EXPLANATION 100TH BIRTHDAY CELEBRATION again when it was brought before the House on December 19. HON. TRENT KELLY HON. LIZ CHENEY This bill was crafted behind closed doors, OF MISSISSIPPI OF WYOMING without regular order, and without thorough IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES public input. The result is legislation that would Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Tuesday, December 19, 2017 dismantle our health care system, add significant complexity to the tax code, and harm my Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, on Ms. CHENEY. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to district’s seniors, students, and virtually every December 18, I was not recorded on two Roll extend my congratulations to Arlene Sherman middle-class family. Call votes due to travel delays beyond my on her 100th birthday. control. Had I been present, I would have I join her friends and family in extending my Many of my constituents suffered great eco- voted YEA on Roll Call No. 685 and YEA on best to her on this day and in celebrating her nomic hardship and are just beginning to re- Roll Call No. 686. life and contributions to our great state. I hope cover from the worst financial crisis since the she uses this momentous day to do the same. Great Depression. This tax bill is not a way to f bolster the recovery effort; it is a red herring Again, Mr. Speaker, I would like to extend HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY that relies on the myth of trickle-down eco- my congratulations to Arlene on her birthday. OF MR. FRANK WILLIAMS, JR. May her year be filled with happiness and nomics in order to give top earners more breaks. blessings. HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND f Another way the Republican tax bill cal- lously demonstrates a lack of concern for the OF LOUISIANA RECOGNIZING HOLY FAMILY average American that has been left largely IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ACADEMY AS A 2017 NATIONAL out of the conversation, is the taxation of our Tuesday, December 19, 2017 BLUE RIBBON SCHOOL citizens living abroad. I often hear from my overseas constituents and American expats I Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today HON. PETER J. ROSKAM meet around the world about the burdens they to honor the life and legacy of Mr. Frank ‘‘Frankie’’ Williams, Jr., a native of New Orle- OF ILLINOIS face with the American citizenship-based tax- ans, Louisiana, who passed away on Decem- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ation system. Like my constituents in Las ber 6, 2017 at the age of 50. Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Vegas, many of our citizens residing overseas are teachers, small business owners, and mid- Mr. Williams was born on July 21, 1967 in Mr. ROSKAM. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to dle-class and working families who would be New Orleans, Louisiana. He was the oldest congratulate Holy Family Catholic Academy in excluded from the benefits of the tax bill. They boy of six children to Mr. Frank Williams, Sr. Inverness, Illinois on being named a 2017 Na- discuss being dually taxed under the current and Mrs. Joan Williams. Mr. Williams received tional Blue Ribbon Award winner. The National system: first by the local tax authority where his education in the Orleans Parish Public Blue Ribbon Award is presented to schools for they currently reside and again by the United Schools, graduating from George Washington outstanding academic performance making States. This is a legitimate problem and unfair Carver High School. He was employed by the Holy Family Catholic Academy well-deserving for the roughly 9 million Americans living Blue Crab Restaurant and Oyster Bar and a of this recognition. former employee of Margaritaville for ten This year AdvancED, a non-partisan organi- abroad. No other developed nation has such a system. years. zation that reviews educational institutions, Mr. Williams went into the water near Lake- As a member of the Americans Abroad named Holy Family Catholic Academy as the shore Drive to assist in rescuing two men. Caucus, I have continued to support taking ac- first middle school in Illinois to receive STEM One of those two men died and another was tion so that U.S. citizens living abroad are not certification. Notably, the school’s group-based hospitalized after their car plunged into a left with the choice of being drained of savings learning environment prepares middle school canal at West End, along with killing Mr. Wil- or having to renounce their citizenship due to students for STEM programs with confidence, liams as well. A co-worker of Mr. Williams unfair double taxation. Unfortunately, Con- curiosity, and enthusiasm. stated that his actions that night were in line gress has neglected to help this minority con- The success of Holy Family Catholic Acad- with his character. stituency for far too long. It is discouraging emy would not be possible without qualified It was said that, ‘‘Frank was the true defini- that the tax-writing committees would rather teachers and the support of a robust Parent tion of a selfless person who always looked prioritize tax cuts on the foreign income of Association. Over 75 percent of Holy Family out for his fellow man, co-worker or friend— U.S. corporations than provide assistance to Catholic Academy teachers have advanced the type of guy who would give you the shirt individual citizens abroad with tax reform. degrees. The Parent Association hosts a off his back. His large stature perfectly week-long Teacher Appreciation celebration I condemn my colleagues who voted for the matched his large heart.’’ that recognizes the trust, appreciation, and tax scam conference report that will shift Mr. Williams loved the city and the people of dedication of these consummate profes- money from hard working families in Nevada New Orleans. His legacy will forever be a part sionals. and around the globe to the wealthiest in the of the city and his dedication to community Mr. Speaker and distinguished colleagues, nation. embodies the spirit of New Orleans. We can- please join me in congratulating Holy Family not match the sacrifices made by Mr. Williams, Catholic Academy on being named a 2017 f but surely we can try to match his sense of National Blue Ribbon Award winner. PERSONAL EXPLANATION service. We cannot match his courage, but we f can strive to match his devotion. MILLIONS OF AMERICANS Mr. Frank ‘‘Frankie’’ Williams, Jr.’s survivors NEGLECTED UNDER TAX BILL HON. RICHARD HUDSON include his wife Doretha ‘‘Kim’’ Henry Wil- OF NORTH CAROLINA liams, mother Joan Williams, son Frank Clark HON. DINA TITUS IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and two stepsons; grandchildren Adriana, Ma’Kye and Cam’ron Clark and two step OF NEVADA Tuesday, December 19, 2017 grandchildren; and godchild Karionisha Polk. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. HUDSON. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- Siblings Karen Jones, Joan (Charles), Barbara Tuesday, December 19, 2017 ably detained and missed a vote. Had I been (Will), Glenn (Chandra), Tyrone (Teidra) Ms. TITUS. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong op- present, I would have voted YEA on Roll Call Willimas and Jessie (Brenda) Brue; eight position to H.R. 1, the Republican tax scam. I No. 686 and YEA on Roll Call No. 687. brothers-in-law; and four sisters-in-law. He is

∑ 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 04:57 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K19DE8.001 E19DEPT1 E1724 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2017 survived by a host of nieces, nephews, cous- emergency room at the Southern Ocean Med- of the U.S. Capitol Grounds for the Architect ins and other relatives and friends. ical Center in Manahawkin, New Jersey. Addi- of the Capitol. Mr. Speaker, I celebrate the life and legacy tionally, their efforts contributed to the grand In retirement, he will be spending more time of Mr. Frank ‘‘Frankie’’ Williams, Jr. a beloved opening of a new Pediatric Care Center at with his granddaughter, working on home im- husband, father, grandfather, uncle, and son. Southern Ocean Medical Center, in August of provement projects, and enjoy hiking and f 2013. beach trips. He will continue to explore Amer- Martin was raised in Mayetta, NJ, a very ican history trails—he and his wife recently CONGRATULATING LIEUTENANT small and not so populated area inside of hiked Gettysburg and Civil War trails. GENERAL DAVID E. QUANTOCK Stafford Township in southern Ocean County. Although we are sad to see someone with ON HIS RETIREMENT AFTER 37 In 1998, he graduated from Southern Regional Ted’s accomplishments leave the service of YEARS OF SERVICE IN THE High School, while racing for the Modified Di- the institution, I offer him my sincere best UNITED STATES ARMY vision at Wall Stadium in Wall Township, al- wishes in his retirement. ways striving to accomplish his childhood f HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK dream, which was to become a NASCAR Cup IN RECOGNITION OF HELEN OF NEW YORK Series Champion. MACKES FOR THIRTY YEARS OF Mr. Speaker, the people of New Jersey’s IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PUBLIC SERVICE Third Congressional District are tremendously Tuesday, December 19, 2017 proud to have Mr. Martin Truex, Jr., as an in- Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to volved member of their community. It is my HON. MATT CARTWRIGHT congratulate Lieutenant General David E. honor to recognize his outstanding accom- OF PENNSYLVANIA Quantock, who is retiring after 37 years of ex- plishment of being crowned the 2017 Cham- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES emplary active federal service in the United pion in the NASCAR Cup Series and his con- Tuesday, December 19, 2017 States Army on December 31, 2017. tinued commitment to giving back to his com- Mr. CARTWRIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise LTG Quantock is a resident of New York munity, before the United States House of today to honor Helen Mackes, who will cele- and a 1980 graduate of Norwich University, Representatives. brate her retirement in January from her posi- with a Bachelor’s degree in Criminal Justice. f tion as tax collector for Kunkletown, Pennsyl- He received Master’s degrees in Public Ad- vania. Helen has been a life-long resident of THANKING THEODORE R. ministration from Troy State University, Com- Kunkletown, Eldred Township, Pennsylvania. puter Science from the Naval Postgraduate BECHTOL, JR. FOR HIS DEDI- Helen Mackes was a realtor, an elected tax School, and Strategy from the United States CATED SERVICE TO THE HOUSE collector, and the go-to person for information Army War College. He was commissioned and assistance in her community for close to through ROTC and entered the U.S. Army as HON. GREGG HARPER thirty years, and she was the recording sec- a Military Police Officer. LTG Quantock has OF MISSISSIPPI retary for a local political association for three served in multiple campaigns, including Oper- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES decades as well. In addition to her service in ation Island Breeze in Grenada, Operation Up- Tuesday, December 19, 2017 government, Helen has always been very in- hold Democracy in Haiti, and Operation Iraqi Mr. HARPER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to volved in her community in civic organizations, Freedom in Iraq. pay special tribute to one of the truly out- helping to preserve local history and important LTG Quantock culminated his distinguished standing individuals who works at the U.S. historic sites. As head of the Eldred Township career as The Inspector General, Office of the Capitol, Mr. Theodore R. Bechtol, Jr. Historical Society, she led the effort to secure Secretary of the Army where he upheld the of- Better known to many of us as the Super- a grant from the Commonwealth Finance Au- fice’s longstanding legacy as a fair and impar- intendent of the U.S. Capitol Grounds, Ted is thority to renovate and restore the Kunkletown tial organization. In all of his diverse assign- responsible for preserving and maintaining post office on Kunkletown Road. ments, LTG Quantock’s dedication, integrity, more than 290 acres of the historic landscape In is an honor to recognize Helen Mackes and leadership had an immeasurable impact and infrastructure across the U.S. Capitol for all the years of service she has given to on the Army and our nation’s allies. campus. the people of Kunkletown. I am grateful for On behalf of New York’s 21st District, I want Prior to being promoted to his current posi- both what she has done and what she has to thank LTG Quantock for his 37 years of tion in 2007, Ted served as the Deputy Super- meant to this unique community. I wish her all faithful service, and wish him and his wife Me- intendent for U.S. Capitol Grounds. As part of of the best as she looks forward to an enjoy- lissa all the best in the years ahead. Ted’s responsibilities, he ensures the routine able and fulfilling retirement. f and periodic landscape maintenance, com- f prehensive tree care, and upkeep of the sup- HONORING MR. MARTIN TRUEX, HONORING FIREFIGHTER AND porting infrastructure, vehicles, and equipment JR. PARAMEDIC JAMES MCDONALD are completed. Additionally, snow removal, FOR HIS COURAGE AND HEROIC trash collection, and support for major events, ACTIONS HON. THOMAS MacARTHUR such as the annual December Christmas Tree OF NEW JERSEY Lighting Ceremony, are key responsibilities for HON. RAUL RUIZ IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES supporting our U.S. Capitol campus. In total, OF CALIFORNIA Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Ted has taken part in 13 U.S. Capitol Christ- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES mas Tree events. Mr. MACARTHUR. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Throughout Ted’s years at the U.S. Capitol, Tuesday, December 19, 2017 to honor Mr. Martin Truex, Jr., of Ocean Coun- he worked hard to bring recognition to the his- Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I would like to com- ty as the 32nd driver in the NASCAR Cup Se- torical significance of the grounds and helped mend the heroic actions of firefighter and ries history to be crowned Champion. Since to produce cultural landscape reports. His paramedic James McDonald. His courage, his Cup series rookie season in 2004, Martin depth of knowledge about Frederick Law calm demeanor, quick reflexes, and solution- has racked up 15 wins, 67 top 5’s and 160 top Olmsted, the American landscape architect based approach saved the life of Riverside ten finishes with 6,519 laps led throughout his who designed the U.S. Capitol Grounds, has County Sheriff’s Deputy David Solis. hard fought and resilient career. changed how each section of the grounds are On the afternoon of May 25th, 2017, Mr. Beyond his great success on the race track, cared for, with a focus on historical horti- McDonald and the rest of the members of Fire Martin is committed to giving back to his com- culture. Station 79 were dispatched across town to as- munity. In 2007, he and his longtime girlfriend, Ted has also consulted on historical horti- sist Deputy Solis who had been shot multiple Sherry Pollex started the Martin Truex, Jr. culture work at many institutions throughout times during a foot pursuit in the City of Foundation to support children with pediatric the east coast. Coachella. cancer. When not driving for Colorado based Under his leadership, the U.S. Capitol Mr. McDonald reacted immediately and Furniture Row Racing team, Martin and Sherry Grounds have received designation as an ac- medically assisted Deputy Solis. He assessed devote much of their time together to fur- credited arboretum, a notable industry stand- the injuries, directed the medical support, and thering cancer research and awareness. The ard. requested an air ambulance to transport Dep- Martin Truex, Jr., Foundation has committed On Friday, January 5, 2018, Ted Bechtol uty Solis to the nearest regional trauma cen- over one million dollars in aid to help grow the will retire from his position as Superintendent ter.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:57 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.003 E19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1725 As an emergency room physician, I am Mr. Herr and his wife Lisa will be moving to deed a match. Without any hesitation, Deputy aware that when an individual is severely in- Texas after his retirement where he will con- Lopez decided to donate her kidney to save jured by gunshots, every second is vital to tinue to support our Nation’s defense in a the life of little Matthew. save his or her life. Mr. McDonald remained leadership role in the private sector. Both he When Deputy Lopez enthusiastically shared calmed and focused throughout the operation, and Lisa will enjoy being closer to family but the great news with Ms. Castleberry, she was and his leadership was essential in saving will never give up their ties to the Old Domin- overcome with tears of joy. On July 31, 2017, Deputy Solis’s life. His courage and agility of ion. Deputy Lopez donated her left kidney to little mind is commendable. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Matthew, and the transplant surgery was suc- Throughout his two years working with the in applauding Mr. Herr’s service to Stafford cessful. Her selfness generosity saved Mat- Riverside County Fire Department, Mr. County, to the Commonwealth of Virginia, and thew’s life, who is now recovering well with his McDonald has demonstrated a strong commit- to the United States of America, and wish him new kidney. ment to public safety, earning the respect and and his wife the best in their future endeavors. Deputy Lopez has dedicated her life to serv- admiration of his colleagues. Before becoming f ing the residents of the Coachella Valley. Her a firefighter, Mr. McDonald served our commu- valuable contributions and arduous work nity as a paramedic since 2000. Mr. McDonald PERSONAL EXPLANATION strengthening our community are inspiring. As was recently recognized by the City of exemplified in this story, she goes above and Coachella for his outstanding performance as- HON. AL GREEN beyond the call of duty. sisting Deputy Solis. OF TEXAS Mr. Speaker, on behalf of California’s 36th On behalf of California’s 36th Congressional IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Congressional District, I truly commend Dep- District, I am grateful for Firefighter and Para- uty Lopez for her heroism and compassionate Tuesday, December 19, 2017 medic James McDonald and commend his sacrifice. Her willingness to help little Matthew valuable contributions and arduous work Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speaker, on is an inspiration to us all. Her years of service strengthening our community. Monday, December 18, 2017 I missed the fol- and contributions to our community are an ex- f lowing votes. Had I been present, I would ample of excellence and dedication that all IN RECOGNITION OF WILLIAM ERIC have voted ‘‘NO’’ on Motion to Fix the Con- should seek to emulate. HERR, COLONEL, USAF (RETIRED) vening Times, and ‘‘YES’’ on H.R. 4375, f STEM Research and Education Effectiveness HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN and Transparency Act. PERSONAL EXPLANATION f OF VIRGINIA HON. RICHARD M. NOLAN IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PERSONAL EXPLANATION OF MINNESOTA Tuesday, December 19, 2017 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I am honored HON. STEVE SCALISE Tuesday, December 19, 2017 to use this time to recognize my constituent OF LOUISIANA and friend, Mr. William Eric Herr for over 40 IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. NOLAN. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoidably years of federal service beginning as a Re- detained for voting on Monday, December 18. Tuesday, December 19, 2017 serve Officer Training Corps cadet in 1977 Had I been present and voting, I would have and culminating on January 14, 2018 with his Mr. SCALISE. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- voted: retirement from federal civil service. ably detained. Had I been present, I would Nay on Roll Call No. 685 (On Motion to Fix Mr. Herr received his engineering degree have voted YEA on Roll Call No. 687. the Convening Time); from the University of Colorado and was com- f Aye on Roll Call No. 686 (On Motion to missioned in 1981. He excelled as an Air Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 4375, Force pilot with most of his flight time in the HONORING DEPUTY LOPEZ ON STEM Research and Education Effectiveness F–15 Eagle, single-seat, air superiority fighter. BEING NAMED OFFICER OF THE and Transparency Act, as amended); and Mr. Herr reached the pinnacle of his tactical YEAR FOR HER ALTRUISM AND Aye on Roll Call Vote No. 687 (Motion to training by graduating from the United States HEROISM Suspend the Rules and Pass H.R. 3979, Keep Air Force Fighter Weapons Instructor Course; America’s Refuges Operational Act). as in his other flying training courses, he re- HON. RAUL RUIZ f ceived top academic honors and was recog- OF CALIFORNIA IN RECOGNITION OF BETH CHAP- nized as a Distinguished Graduate. He served IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PELL FOR HER SERVICE AS DE- 26 years in the Air Force including command, Tuesday, December 19, 2017 combat time over Iraq, duty on The Joint Staff, TROIT ECONOMIC CLUB PRESI- and senior positions on The Air Staff and the Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I would like to rec- DENT AND CEO Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Staff. ognize an outstanding member of my Con- Today, Mr. Herr serves as the Low Observ- gressional district, Riverside County Sheriff’s HON. DEBBIE DINGELL able/Counter Low Observable (LO/CLO) Sys- Deputy Alicia Lopez. Because of her extraor- OF MICHIGAN tems Program Director in the Office of the dinary altruism, she was recently named Offi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, cer of the Year by the Palm Desert Police De- Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Technology, and Logistics. He is responsible partment. Her story is an inspiration and for managing the Department of Defense proc- today, I want to recognize her exceptional Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to ess for focusing LO/CLO technology develop- dedication of service and sacrifice. recognize Beth Chappell for her distinguished ment and reviewing requests for the release of Deputy Lopez and Community Service Offi- leadership as the Detroit Economic Club’s LO/CLO technologies to U.S. allies and for- cer Angelina Castleberry became close friends President and CEO as she leaves to begin her eign partners. when they were both working at the Palm next chapter. She has been an effective lead- Mr. Herr has been an active and involved Desert Police Department. In 2014, Ms. er and advocate for Michigan’s businesses citizen of Stafford County, Virginia. He served Castleberry gave birth to beautiful twins. Un- and entrepreneurs. five years on the county’s Parks and Recre- fortunately, one of them was born with a kid- Born and raised in Michigan, Mrs. Chappell ation Advisory Commission including multiple ney deficiency. For three and a half years, lit- attended Michigan State University’s Broad terms as chairman and vice-chairman. An ac- tle Matthew has been subject to multiple dialy- College of Business where she received her tive member of the Stafford County Branch, sis treatments, 14 surgeries, and weekly visits bachelor’s degree in Marketing before entering National Association for the Advancement of to the Loma Linda University Kidney Center. the workforce. She spent 16 years at AT&T Colored People, Mr. Herr currently serves on Throughout the procedures, doctors advised Corporation, where she served as Vice Presi- their executive board and as their political out- Ms. Castleberry that Matthew may not survive dent of Global Services and cultivated relation- reach chair. He has been a frequent speaker for too long without a kidney transplant. When ships with a worldwide clientele. Mrs. Chappell at meetings of the Stafford County Board of Deputy Lopez learned about Matthew’s trou- also served as Executive Vice President of Supervisors and has been engaged at all lev- bles, she decided to participate in a blood Compuware Corporation and led the Chappell els of his local government and across the drive to see if she could be a match. In March Group before being named President and First Congressional District. 2017, the results indicated that she was in- CEO of the Detroit Economic Club (DEC).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:57 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.008 E19DEPT1 E1726 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2017 Throughout her 12 year tenure as DEC Presi- HONORING DEPUTY DANIEL Vice President of Facilities, Development and dent, Mrs. Chappell has increased the DIMAGGIO FOR HEROISM IN THE Operations, and the recognition of his lifetime connectivity of Detroit’s business community. LINE OF DUTY of work by Washtenaw Community College’s The Detroit Economic Club was founded in which renamed a plant operations building 1934 to serve as an organization committed to HON. RAUL RUIZ after him. This building is being renamed in growing Michigan’s business community and OF CALIFORNIA celebration of Damon B. Flowers’ work at the providing a platform for international leaders to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES school, so that his legacy will inspire generations of students to come. address global economic change. Mrs. Chap- Tuesday, December 19, 2017 pell was successful in growing the DEC and Damon B. Flowers has served Washtenaw Mr. RUIZ. Mr. Speaker, I would like to rec- expanding its accessibility to a diverse group Community College in various capacities for ognize Riverside County Sheriff’s Deputy Dan- of local and national leaders. She launched a over 23 years, including his current position of young leaders group to ensure that students iel DiMaggio for his heroic and swift actions which ultimately helped save the life of Deputy Vice President of Facilities, Development and and young business leaders have the oppor- Operations. Throughout his time at WCC, two tunity to learn from successful local leaders David Solis. On May 25th, 2017, Deputy Solis was shot campus master plans were implemented. and receive mentorship from those who have five times during a foot pursuit in the City of These plans allowed him to oversee more walked in their shoes. Throughout her career, Coachella. Deputy DiMaggio rapidly re- than $120 million in renovations and allowed she has been recognized for her dedication to sponded to the situation and assessed Deputy for over 130 construction projects, including the Michigan community and continued inno- Solis’s injuries. Two weeks prior to the inci- the Business Education Building, the Great vation to best serve business owners and con- dent, Deputy DiMaggio attended training on Lakes Regional Training Center and the sumers. Mrs. Chappell is a member of multiple Tactical Field Lifesaving, where he received Health and Fitness Center. Vice President boards including Detroit Regional Chamber, the necessary medical materials to apply a Flowers is known for his creative thinking and St. Joseph Mercy Foundation, Michigan Eco- tourniquet to Deputy Solis’s arm. This tech- is recognized for the implementation of WCC’s nomic Growth Authority and Citizens Research nique helped stem the blood flow and reduce energy conservation campus standards and Council. She has had a tremendous positive the shock from his wounds. expanded recycling operations. Under his impact on the Detroit Economic Club through Deputy Solis is now alive thanks to the col- leadership, the campus has developed a part- her work as President, and I look forward to lective efforts of our community’s first respond- nership with the City of Ann Arbor and Ann seeing her continued contributions in the com- ers and public safety officials. However, Dep- Arbor Township to develop backup water re- ing years. uty DiMaggio’s medical assistance was key in sources and vegetated building roofs. He also Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me helping save his life. He took care of Deputy secured WCC four Department of Energy in honoring Beth Chappell for her distin- Solis until the paramedics arrived and re- grants through his dedication to implementing guished tenure as Detroit Economic Club mained with him while he was transported to campus wide sustainability practices. President and CEO. She has worked diligently the nearest regional trauma center. Vice President Flowers has received many on behalf of Michigan’s business owners Deputy DiMaggio’s rapid response and deci- awards throughout his tenure at Washtenaw throughout the years. sive actions are truly commendable. He maintained a calm demeanor and a deep level of Community College, including the Innovative Architecture and Design Award from Recre- f concentration that allowed him to execute the advance medical training he had received. He ation Magazine, the Arbor Day Foundation PERSONAL EXPLANATION also had the needed medical kit ready to be Tree Campus USA Designation and the Grand used, which exemplifies his judicious thinking. Award from the Professional Grounds Man- Mr. Speaker, on behalf of California’s 36th agement Awards Program. His years of hard HON. BRENDA L. LAWRENCE Congressional District, I want to honor and work have impacted countless lives and for- recognize Deputy Daniel DiMaggio. His coura- ever bettered the design of WCC’s campus. OF MICHIGAN geous and decisive response saved help the His leadership will be missed, and I look for- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES life of one of the members of our community. ward to seeing his continued contributions to I commend his admirable contributions our local community in the coming years. Tuesday, December 19, 2017 strengthening our community. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Mrs. LAWRENCE. Mr. Speaker, unfortu- f in honoring Vice President Damon B. Flowers nately, on December 18, 2017, I was not able PERSONAL EXPLANATION for his outstanding service to Washtenaw to cast my votes during the vote series due to Community College. His thoughtful leadership a prior obligation in my District. Had I been in and influence will make a difference for dec- attendance, I would have voted: NO on the HON. VICENTE GONZALEZ ades to come. Motion to Fix the Convening Time; YES on OF TEXAS H.R. 4375—STEM Research and Education IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f Effectiveness and Transparency Act, as Tuesday, December 19, 2017 amended (Rep. Comstock—Science, Space, PERSONAL EXPLANATION and Technology); and YES on H.R. 3979— Mr. GONZALEZ of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to cast my vote for Roll Call votes Keep America’s Refuges Operational Act, as 685, 686, and 687 on December 18, 2017. amended (Rep. Jeffries—Natural Resources). ´ Had I been present, my votes would have HON. LINDA T. SANCHEZ been the following: Nay on 685 and Aye on OF CALIFORNIA f Roll Call votes 686, and 687. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES PERSONAL EXPLANATION f IN RECOGNITION OF WASHTENAW Tuesday, December 19, 2017 COMMUNITY COLLEGE RENAM- ´ HON. KYRSTEN SINEMA ING THE PLANT OPERATIONS Ms. SANCHEZ. Mr. Speaker, yesterday De- cember 18, 2017, on Roll Call Number 685 OF ARIZONA BUILDING IN HONOR OF A DIS- TINGUISHED STAFF MEMBER through 687, The Motion to Fix the Convening IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Time, H.R. 4375, STEM Research and Edu- Tuesday, December 19, 2017 cation Effectiveness and Transparency Act HON. DEBBIE DINGELL and H.R. 3979, Keep America’s Refuges Ms. SINEMA. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- OF MICHIGAN Operational Act, I was unavoidably detained ably detained yesterday. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and missed the vote. Had I been present, I would have voted Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Had I been present, I would have voted: NAY on Roll Call No. 685, YEA on Roll Call Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Motion to Fix the Convening Time: No; H.R. No. 686, and YEA on Roll Call No. 687. recognize the career of Damon B. Flowers, 4375: Yes; H.R. 3979: Yes.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:57 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.014 E19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1727 PERSONAL EXPLANATION the joyous renditions of this treasured winter CONGRATULATING MELISSA festival in tiny Burlingame. Let the bells of this BURNISON HON. BETTY McCOLLUM concert ring for as long as our human species OF MINNESOTA have hope of joy and redemption. HON. MICHAEL K. SIMPSON IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES OF IDAHO IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Tuesday, December 19, 2017 f Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Ms. MCCOLLUM. Mr. Speaker, on Decem- IN RECOGNITION OF LINDA YOHN ber 18, 2017, I was in my district conducting FOR HER DISTINGUISHED CA- Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to official business and missed votes. REER WITH WEMU RADIO congratulate Melissa Burnison on her recent Had I been present, I would have voted in confirmation to serve as the Department of support of H.R. 4375, STEM Research and Energy’s Assistant Secretary for Congres- Education Effectiveness and Transparency HON. DEBBIE DINGELL sional and Intergovernmental Affairs. Melissa Act, and H.R. 3979, Keep America’s Refuges is well known to Members of the House, and Operational Act. OF MICHIGAN President Trump made an excellent choice Had I been present, I would have voted in IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES when he nominated her for this important posi- opposition to the Republican motion to fix the tion. convening times. Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Melissa Burnison is a native of Kentucky and she began her career on Capitol Hill f Mrs. DINGELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to working for Senator MITCH MCCONNELL. Me- MUSIC AT KOHL MANSION 35TH recognize Ms. Linda Yohn for her outstanding lissa later worked for Congressman Zach ANNIVERSARY career with WEMU Radio. She has worked Wamp of Tennessee where she focused on tirelessly on behalf of Michigan’s music com- Department of Energy issues. She later HON. JACKIE SPEIER munity for the past 30 years. served as a senior advisor at the Department OF CALIFORNIA After receiving her bachelor’s degree from of Energy and most recently represented the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Otterbein College in Ohio, Ms. Yohn started Nuclear Energy Institute as Director for Fed- eral Programs. In that capacity, my staff and Tuesday, December 19, 2017 working at WKSU, a TV station in Kent, Ohio, where she discovered that radio was her true I have worked closely with Melissa to address Ms. SPEIER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to passion. Ms. Yohn has been a lover of jazz challenges and opportunities facing the nu- recognize the Music at Kohl Mansion concert clear industry. Melissa also worked tirelessly music her entire life and then took a job as a series, conducted each year at Mercy High to foster increased collaboration between the jazz music publicist in New York City where School, Burlingame. This is the 35th year of DOE national labs and the nuclear industry. I Music at Kohl Mansion. Built in 1914, Kohl she stayed until joining the WEMU Radio team have especially appreciated her work in this Mansion’s stunningly beautiful hall and associ- in April of 1987 as Music Director. She hosted area. ated rooms are the perfect setting for spar- Cafe´ Du Jazz on weekday evenings through- While Melissa Burnison is a respected and kling holiday lights and the joyous sounds of out her first few years at WEMU before taking effective professional, she truly stands out as chamber music. the morning jazz slot which she has held for a wife and mother. Melissa is an adoring Music at Kohl Mansion has a national rep- the past 25 years. Through Ms. Yohn’s work, mother of three daughters and with her hus- utation for presenting chamber concerts of the the station saw a sizable growth in the sta- band, Scott, they have formed a warm and highest professional standards, featuring local, tion’s audience and its relationships with jazz close family. national and international ensembles. The al- artists and record companies. Ms. Yohn has One of the pleasures of serving in the U.S, lied program of Kohl for Kids has instructed fostered deep relationships with members of House of Representatives is seeing young, tal- over 100,000 students in interactive music the jazz community, both locally and nation- ented people come to Washington to serve programs through 22 K–12 public schools. wide. their country. I commend Melissa for her con- The instruction has also been offered through firmation in this important position, and I ex- Ms. Yohn’s work at WEMU has been critical concerts, master classes, and coaching. Kohl pect we will be hearing more about this tal- to the growth and success of the station as for Kids also serves the public in public librar- ented and gracious public servant in the years well as cultivating the community of dedicated ies, community centers and senior residences. ahead. listeners that WEMU is known for. South- Hundreds of students have received musical f instruments through the year-long instrument eastern Michigan’s vibrant jazz scene is attrib- TESTIMONY OF ANNA GOLDFARB drive for schools, and a partnership with the uted to Ms. Yohn’s work at WEMU and the re- Young Chamber Musicians since 2011 has lationships that she continues to cultivate. Her strengthened the education and performance work has been recognized many times over HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK opportunities for advanced, teenage musi- the years and she serves as a board member OF PENNSYLVANIA cians. for the Southeast Michigan Jazz Association IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES The holiday production of Music at Kohl and attends panels at various conferences Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Mansion and the year-round production of and conventions throughout the country. Ms. Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I include in music through Kohl for Kids strengthen Amer- Yohn has been named National Jazz Pro- the RECORD testimony of Anna Goldfarb. ica. Despite different cultures, backgrounds grammer of the Year five times, has received Mr. Speaker, distinguished members of and experiences, music is a unifying language the Duke Dubois national award for service Congress and fellow citizens, good afternoon. that every person can appreciate without re- and has been named Ypsilanti’s Ambassador My name is Anna Goldfarb and I am a stu- gard to race, heritage or training. Music con- for Jazz. Over the past 30 years, she has dent in the Council Rock School District. I nects each of us with our inner spark, and en- served as a mentor to the entire WEMU team; am very honored to be speaking before you courages all to unite around a common source though her title was Music Director, she was today about diversity and inclusion issues at my Bucks County, Pennsylvania school. I at- of inspiration. also the heart and soul of the station. Ms. Mr. Speaker, I have the privilege of being tend a school where most of the students Yohn leaves behind a generation of pas- look like me. I have heard many times from an alumna of Mercy High School, and the sionate jazz listeners and on-air hosts. Her ad- classmates and teachers that discrimination proud trumpeter of its ongoing mission to ele- vocacy, passion, and hard work have made is not a problem within our district. It vate the human spirit. Music at Kohl her a beloved leader in our Michigan commu- wasn’t until the last couple of years, when I Mansion and its allied program of Kohl for nity, and I look forward to her continued posi- became old enough and opened my eyes and Kids have spent 35 years making my commu- ears, did I see and hear that improvement is tive impact on our Michigan community in the nity a more hopeful place in which to live. This needed. coming years. holiday season, while viewing the lights I do not think that most teachers and stu- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me dents are trying to be hurtful to students of around us, I want to celebrate the light within color, different religions, genders, or sexual that is brought forth by the music emanating in honoring Linda Yohn for a distinguished 30 orientation. I also don’t think that my from Kohl Mansion. There is no finer location year career with WEMU Radio. She has made friends who do not speak up in the face of for music than the hall of Kohl Mansion where a lasting impact on southeastern Michigan’s discrimination are choosing to stand with the love of God and country are palpable in jazz community. those that discriminate.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:57 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.021 E19DEPT1 E1728 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2017 I do believe that when we know better, we tion. He served as Chairman of the LDI, Ltd. of St. Ambrose Episcopal Church, where he do better. I have made it my mission to call Board, a family business which evolved over held numerous leadership positions. out discrimination when I see or hear it. I the years into a successful business innova- Harold Webb made life in Raleigh and North will always link arms with those being tar- tion solutions firm. With his business exper- Carolina better for all of our citizens. I and geted and stand up for them when they are many others valued him as a friend, collabo- scared to do it alone. tise, Andre devoted his time to Butler’s Busi- I would like diversity and inclusion train- ness Accelerator program by mentoring stu- rator, and colleague: a man you wanted on ing to be added to our curriculum. We won’t dents and graciously donated to Butler’s busi- your team. He was a leader who got things always attend school in this district, in this ness school to promote their continued suc- done but was quick to share the credit, a kind ‘‘bubble.’’ We need to be prepared to become cess. Throughout his life, Andre made a pro- and generous man skilled at bringing people global citizens. We need to be prepared and found impact on countless Hoosiers by pro- together, and a great source of encourage- empowered to stand up and link arms. viding his guidance to many boards, commis- ment and inspiration. We join with Harold’s f sions, and civic organizations. family, his many friends and admirers, and On a personal note, Andre Lacy was my members of the communities he served, in IN RECOGNITION OF ILLINOIS’ mourning his passing and honoring his exem- BICENTENNIAL friend. He was a strong leader and a straight shooter that you could count on to be candid plary life of leadership and public service. f HON. ADAM KINZINGER with you. Andre will be mourned most by those who knew him best, and he will be TESTIMONY OF ASHTON NOONAN OF ILLINOIS missed by all. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES f HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK Tuesday, December 19, 2017 REMEMBERING HAROLD WEBB OF PENNSYLVANIA Mr. KINZINGER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to join my fellow Illinoisans in celebrating 200 HON. DAVID E. PRICE Tuesday, December 19, 2017 years of being the Land of Lincoln, the Prairie OF NORTH CAROLINA Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I include in State, the heart of the Midwest, and the true IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the RECORD testimony of Ashton Noonan. microcosm of America. Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Hello, my name is Ashton Noonan, I’m 13 With our varied landscape and diverse pop- years old and I’m transgender. ulation, our location in the dead center of the Mr. PRICE of North Carolina. Mr. Speaker, Throughout my life I always felt and said country, and our historical significance, Illinois I rise today to honor the life and legacy of I was a girl. I loved Ariel and Wonder is home to the hard-working and the kind- Harold Webb—Tuskegee Airman, North Caro- Woman; not Batman and Superman. People hearted. On December 3, 1818, Illinois be- lina Director of Personnel, Wake County Com- would make fun of me on the playground, or came the 21st state admitted to the Union. missioner—one of North Carolina’s most dis- ask why I wanted to be a girl, but to me it just felt right. Today, Illinois is the fifth most populated tinguished leaders. Harold died this past Fri- Every year I got older, I felt more and state in the country and the first state to ratify day at the age of 92 after a lifetime of devoted more uncomfortable in my own skin. I the 13th Amendment to abolish slavery. Our public service. My wife Lisa and I extend our couldn’t look on the outside like who I felt proud state leads the nation in agriculture, condolences to his wife Lucille, their family, I was on the inside. That was always very manufacturing, specialized license plates, and and all Harold’s extensive network of col- confusing, because why not? After all, this is is home to superheroes. Yes, we boast about leagues and friends as we express gratitude MY identity. having the highest number of personalized li- The world is changing, and with your help for his extraordinary life. we can change the perception people have of cense plates produced in the country, and the Born and raised in Greensboro, North Caro- the whole LGBTQ community, but especially home of Superman really exists in Southern Il- lina, Harold attended public schools in Guilford LGBTQ youth. WE need a safe space where linois. We are home to the beloved 2016 County. Upon graduation, he served as a pilot we can be supported, loved and accepted. We World Series Champions, the Chicago Cubs, with WWII’s legendary Tuskegee Airmen, the can and need to make ALL schools that safe and the recently beleaguered but still beloved, first African-American unit to fly and maintain space for ALL children. We need YOUR sup- Chicago Bears. American combat aircraft. His unit received a port to model for everyone else in the world U.S. Presidents Lincoln, Grant, Reagan, and Congressional Gold Medal in 2007 for its mili- what it is to love and accept others for who Obama all lived in Illinois. In fact, Ronald Rea- they are. We could all live every day for bet- tary achievements and was instrumental in ter or for worse, but together we can thrive. gan’s boyhood home of Dixon is located in the paving the way for full integration of the district I represent. Illinois’ 16th Congressional Armed Forces. As the Raleigh News & Ob- f District is also home to the First Lincoln-Doug- server editorialized yesterday, ‘‘Webb was PERSONAL EXPLANATION las Debate, which took place on August 21, proud to be a member of the Greatest Gen- 1858 in downtown Ottawa’s Washington eration, and it may fairly be said that he was HON. JOHN B. LARSON Square. among those who made it the greatest.’’ OF CONNECTICUT We’re proud to celebrate this rich history, After the war, Harold received a Bachelor’s IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES fortunate to call Illinois home, and honored to degree in Biology and a Masters Degree in Tuesday, December 19, 2017 serve our communities here in Congress. As Education from N.C. Agricultural and Tech- we kick off this bicentennial celebration of our nical State University. He then became a Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. Mr. Speaker, Great Pumpkin State, we have a lot to be teacher and principal in Orange County on Monday, December 18, 2017, I was unfor- proud of and a lot of history to look back on. Schools and served in a variety of state-level tunately not present for roll call votes 685 Mr. Speaker, today I stand here to wish Illi- education positions, including administrator of through 687. If I had been present for these nois a very happy birthday and a wonderful bi- Chapter I of the Elementary and Secondary votes, I would have voted: Nay on roll call centennial celebration all year long. Here’s to Education Act in North Carolina schools. vote 685 on the motion to fix the convening our state sovereignty and national union. In 1977, Harold was appointed by Governor time; Yea on roll call vote 686 on passage of the STEM Research and Education Effective- f James B. Hunt to be Director of State Per- sonnel, the first African-American to serve in ness and Transparency Act (H.R. 4375); and HONORING ANDRE LACY this position. He then served on the Wake Yea on roll call vote 687 on passage of the County Board of Commissioners from 2003 to Keep America’s Refuges Operation Act (H.R. HON. LUKE MESSER 2010, and was Chairman from 2008 to 2009. 3979). OF INDIANA Harold Webb’s board service included The f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES University of North Carolina Board of Gov- PERSONAL EXPLANATION ernors, Shaw University Board of Trustees, Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Wake Technical Community College Board of Mr. MESSER. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Trustees, Wake County Planning Board, and HON. BRENDAN F. BOYLE OF PENNSYLVANIA honor a dear friend, Andre Lacy, who passed the National Association of State Personnel IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES away this week on a trip in Botswana, Africa Executives. He received an honorary doc- at the age of 78. torate from NC A&T University and, with Lu- Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Andre was a well-known entrepreneur and cille, was inducted into the Raleigh Hall of Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsylvania. philanthropist throughout Indiana and the na- Fame in 2011. Harold was a faithful member Mr. Speaker, on December 18, 2017, I missed

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:57 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.025 E19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E1729 rollcall vote No. 685, No. 686, and No. 687 on and constituent from Mississippi’s Fourth Dis- at the platoon, company and battalion levels. the floor of the House of Representatives. Had trict. In 2005, he was deployed to Iraq with the I been present, I would have voted Nay, Yea, Jim grew up, just down the beach from Mis- 155th Brigade Combat Team (BCT) where he and Yea, respectively. sissippi, in Pensacola, Florida. He attended first served as Brigade Personnel Officer for f the University of West Florida earning a de- the 155th BCT, and then served as the Bat- gree in banking and finance. In 1980, Jim talion Operations Officer for 2nd Battalion, PERSONAL EXPLANATION launched what would become a longstanding 114th Field Artillery. He has held the position career in finance and budget analysis at of Deputy Chief of Staff, Personnel since Feb- HON. LUIS V. GUTIE´RREZ NASA Headquarters (Washington, D.C.), in ruary 1, 2015. His awards and decorations include the Le- OF ILLINOIS the Budget Operations Division. Later, he gion of Merit, the Bronze Star Medal, the Meri- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES spent a year at Goddard Space Flight Center, in Greenbelt, Maryland. Over the next decade, torious Service Medal (with four Bronze Oak Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Jim’s career would soar to new heights as a Leaf Clusters), the Army Commendation Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ. Mr. Speaker, I was un- budget analyst responsible for the Office of Medal (with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Army Achievement Medal (with two Bronze avoidably absent in the House Chamber for Space Science programs, then as the lead an- Oak Leaf Clusters), the Army Reserve Com- Roll Call votes 685, 686, and 687 on Monday, alyst for the Comptroller for all of NASA’s ponents Achievement Medal (with one Silver December 18, 2017. Had I been present, I space science programs, with a budget of and three Bronze Oak Leaf Clusters), the Na- would have voted ‘‘Nay’’ on Roll Call vote 685 nearly $1.5 billion. From 1993 to 95, Jim tional Defense Service Medal (with one Star), and ‘‘Yea’’ on 686 and 687. served as a special assistant to the Chief Sci- the Iraq Campaign Medal (with two Campaign entist at NASA, managing budget analyses for f Stars), the Global War on Terrorism Service a variety of agency topics—Earth, space, Medal, the Armed Forces Reserve Medal (with TESTIMONY OF MARGARET ZHENG microgravity, and life sciences. Gold Hourglass, M Device, and Numeral 2), Thankfully, Jim’s success landed him a po- the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Serv- HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK sition at Mississippi’s Stennis Space Center ice Ribbon, the Combat Action Badge, the Air where, in 2002, he was named Chief Financial OF PENNSYLVANIA Assault Badge, the National Guard Basic Re- Officer. He was still serving in that position at IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES cruiter Badge , the Mississippi Magnolia Cross the time of his unexpected death in Novem- Tuesday, December 19, 2017 (with one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), the Mis- ber. sissippi Magnolia Medal (with one Bronze Oak Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I include in Jim earned numerous awards for his excel- Leaf Cluster), the Mississippi Commendation the RECORD testimony of Margaret Zheng. lent performance and dedicated service to the Medal, the Mississippi War Medal (with one As a Chinese American, I may be hurt by NASA and Stennis communities. One espe- Star), the Mississippi Emergency Service affirmative action, but as a citizen of the cially memorable one, unique to our Gulf Medal, the Mississippi Service School Ribbon global 21st century, I also feel that diverse Coast, was the NASA Commendation Award (with one Silver and one Bronze Oak Leaf representation in work and education is nec- for Hurricane Katrina Recovery. Cluster), the Mississippi Longevity Medal (with essary to foster a sense of unity underlying Jim carried with him a passion for excep- one Silver and one Bronze Oak Leaf Cluster), diversity. tional work and a rock solid commitment to and the Mississippi Recruiting Medal. From this apparent contradiction of feel- serving well in his career at NASA. His full ings, I have concluded that just like how it’s When asked about his years in the difficult to cure advanced-stage cancer, we comprehension of the public’s trust, as Chief MSARNG, COL Barton said, ‘‘I have been can’t solve discrimination only after harm is Financial Officer, drew the respect and appre- blessed to serve with some of the finest peo- done. Rather, we must treat the sickness of ciation of NASA’s leadership. ple in the world over the last 31 years. It has hate early on. Regrettably, Jim’s life was cut short just been an amazing experience and I am glad to In school, we rarely study social minorities days before his 62nd birthday. I also wish to have been able to serve my country and my except as victims of history, omitting the honor his sons, Nolan & Nicholas today, along state in both peacetime and during war. The positive, active roles that females, Muslims, with their mother, Sherri Carr Bevis, who is service members I have served with truly em- Chinese, LGBTQ+ persons, etc. have had in also a public servant and Gulf Coast friend. body the National Guard motto of ‘Always culture and innovation. Liberal/Democrat students and conservative/Republican stu- Jim enjoyed playing tennis and strumming Ready, Always There’ and I could not be more dents tease and even taunt each other in Beatles tunes on his guitar. He was also proud of my service alongside them.’’ school, and as a political independent, I deeply involved in his beloved Jacob’s Well Throughout his career and in preparation for often feel swallowed up in tribalized politics, church family. The life that was Jim Bevis is his upcoming retirement, Colonel Barton has afraid to be labeled a heartless conservative greatly appreciated and will be missed. been supported by his loving family, including or naı¨ve liberal. his parents, Gerald and Peggy Barton; his f The lack of discussion of socially and po- three sisters; his wife, Jennifer Barton; and his litically diverse perspectives in school per- RECOGNIZING THE SERVICE OF four daughters, Brittany Burnham, Ashley petuates prejudice and endangers individ- COLONEL WILLIAM DAVID BARTON Smith, Kelly Barton and Hannah Kelly. uality, upon which value America was found- I am thankful for Colonel Barton’s many ed. That combined with the inequitable funding of schools and the billions of dollars HON. TRENT KELLY years of military service, and I am proud to wasted in high-stakes assessments that label call him my friend. I wish him the best in his OF MISSISSIPPI rather than help struggling schools is what future endeavors. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES caused the need for affirmative action in the f first place. Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Educate us holistically, on citizenship and PERSONAL EXPLANATION collaboration and empathy, and we will not Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, only have diversity, but also a nation thriv- today I rise in honor of Colonel (COL) William HON. GRACE F. NAPOLITANO ing. David Barton’s thirty-one years of service in OF CALIFORNIA the Mississippi Army National Guard f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES (MSARNG). COL Barton began his military ca- REMEMBERING JAMES THOMAS reer on August 13, 1986, when he enlisted as Tuesday, December 19, 2017 ‘‘JIM’’ BEVIS a Cannon Crewman in Service Battery, 2nd Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Mr. Speaker, I was ab- Battalion, 114th Field Artillery in his hometown sent during rollcall votes No. 685 through 687 HON. STEVEN M. PALAZZO of Kosciusko, Mississippi. He later received due to a death in my family. Had I been OF MISSISSIPPI his commission through the ROTC program at present, I would have voted ‘‘Nay’’ on the mo- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES the University of Mississippi, where he grad- tion to fix the convening time, ‘‘Yea’’ on H.R. uated with a degree in marketing in 1990. 4375, STEM Research and Education Effec- Tuesday, December 19, 2017 COL Barton has served the MSARNG in tiveness and Transparency Act, and ‘‘Yes’’ on Mr. PALAZZO. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to staff positions at the battalion, brigade and H.R. 3979, Keep Americas Refuges Oper- honor the memory of Mr. Jim Bevis, a friend state staff levels, and held command positions ational Act.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:57 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.031 E19DEPT1 E1730 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks December 19, 2017 PERSONAL EXPLANATION experienced many offensive situations. I’ve was not present because I was tending to my seen racists slurs written on school property, husband, who is recovering from major spinal my friends and I have been called the N**** HON. BILL PASCRELL, JR. word to our faces by students, there has been surgery. Had I been present, I would have OF NEW JERSEY students wearing a confederate flag through- voted NAY on roll call vote 685, YEA on roll IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES out the school and no one says anything to call vote 686, and YEA on roll call vote 687. them. Two months ago, I became a victim of Tuesday, December 19, 2017 a hate crime. I have a part time job that I f Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, on December have worked for the past 4 years, As I was walking to my car to go to work I saw hand- 18, 2017, I missed three Roll Call votes be- writing on the car. As I approached the car CONGRATULATING GEORGE AND cause I was detained in my district. Had I I could see that the n*** word was carved on RUTHIE EDWARDS ON THEIR been present, I would have voted: the front and back of my car. Imagine how 50TH ANNIVERSARY NO on the Motion to Fix the Convening hurtful this is, coming from the south, never Times—House GOP Leadership has offered a having to deal with anything like this before motion to change tomorrow’s convening time and having it in your face every time you HON. DANNY K. DAVIS to 10:00 a.m. (Roll Call No. 685); walk out of the door to go to school. It is out of control. We can’t allow this to continue. OF ILLINOIS YES on H.R. 4375, the STEM Research Living in a small town is not meant for one and Education Effectiveness and Trans- race it is meant for all people. We need help. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES parency Act (Roll Call No. 686); and We have to educate the misinformed. The YES on H.R. 3979, the Keep America’s Ref- people that don’t know any better. We have Tuesday, December 19, 2017 uges Operational Act (Roll Call No. 687). to figure out a way to teach people that diversity makes our community stronger. We Mr. DANNY K. DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Speak- f have to open the doors to allow diversity to er, I rise to congratulate George and Ruthie TESTIMONY OF ALIYAH SALLEY feel welcomed into the community. I went to Edwards on their 50th Anniversary this Christ- a school with over 4000 students, but the fac- mas Eve, December 24, 2017. Marriage is ulty has only 1 African American principal one of the oldest institutions ordained by God; in the entire building. Imagine what that HON. BRIAN K. FITZPATRICK and George and Ruthie have proven to have OF PENNSYLVANIA feels like to as an African American student seeing only ONE African American faculty endured fifty years as proof. George and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES member in a school of thousands of students Ruthie married in 1967 before his deployment Tuesday, December 19, 2017 and hundreds of teachers. It hurts, it’s sad, to the Vietnam War in 1968. Upon his return and we have to correct it. I am looking for Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I include in change, annual diversity trainings for the from war, the Edwards’ were blessed with five the RECORD testimony of Aliyah Salley. teaching staff, more history of different cul- children; the late George, Jr., Vincent, Tomika, Hello, my name is Aliyah Salley and I am tures within the curriculum, a day of culture Yul and Corinthia. In addition, George and from Bucks County, PA. First let me start and food, counseling for the victims or even Ruthie are the proud grandparents of Jasmine, off by saying Thank you. Thank you to Con- articulate a clear statement of expectations Devan, Danielle, London, Jordan and great- regarding racism within the schools, but gressman Fitzpatrick, and his colleagues for grandparents of Carter & K.T. Edwards. giving us this opportunity to be heard today. don’t ignore it and act like it is not hap- I also want to thank Barbara Simmons of pening because it is happening all the time. George retired from the Georgia Pacific Cor- the Peace Center, my mom, Necole Salley Today you will hear testimonies from other poration and Ruthie retired from the Texas students from different school districts in and my grandmother, Linda Salley who is Independent School District. They both are the president of the African American Mu- Bucks County who had to deal with similar seum of Bucks County. If it wasn’t for these things such as myself. Please have an open faithful, life-long members of the New Zion 3 ladies along with Congressman Fitzpatrick heart and listen to these stories and then Baptist Church, spending countless hours in I believe my story as well as the stories you let’s create true change for the next genera- church-related activities to improve the New will hear today will have gone unheard. As I tion to grow in confidence of who they are Town community. They enjoy traveling, spend- and what they have to offer, regardless of said earlier my name is Aliyah Salley. I was the color of their skin. As the Constitution ing time with family and friends, eating out at born in Charlotte, North Carolina, lived in states, and I agree like all of you, that ‘‘All local restaurants and most importantly reading Virginia for a few years and then moved to men are created equal’’ & all we want is Bucks County, PA in 2011 with my mom and the Bible. equality. my sister. We move to Bucks County because With age comes wisdom and with wisdom my mom talked about how nice of a place it f comes truth. Many years ago I recall some was to raise her children because of the expe- PERSONAL EXPLANATION friends saying to me, ‘‘to keep a marriage rience she had living there when she was young. For all the years I lived down south, brimming, with love in the loving cup; when- I never once had to deal with racism or the HON. JACKY ROSEN ever you are wrong—admit it; whenever you discrimination until I moved to Bucks Coun- OF NEVADA are right—shut up!’’ I am most certain; every ty. My sister and I went to school in the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES married couple understands this philosophy. Neshaminy school district and I am a proud Tuesday, December 19, 2017 graduate of the 2016 class of Neshaminy & I I congratulate you on achieving this mile- have been attending BCCC for the past 2 Ms. ROSEN. Mr. Speaker, on December stone and wish you many years of happiness years. While attending Neshaminy High, I 18th, on roll call votes 685, 686, and 687, I and joy in the future.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:57 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A19DE8.037 E19DEPT1 Tuesday, December 19, 2017 Daily Digest

HIGHLIGHTS Senate agreed to the motion to recede from the Senate amendment to H.R. 1, Tax Cuts and Jobs Act, and concur with a further amendment. Senate company the bill. Subsequently, the points of order Chamber Action that subsection 11000(a) was in violation of section Routine Proceedings, pages S8073–S8151 313(b)(1)(A) of the Congressional Budget Act of Measures Introduced: Nine bills and one resolu- 1974; that subparagraph (B) of section 11032, start- tion were introduced, as follows: S. 2246–2254, and ing on page 75, line 17 and all through page 76, S. Con. Res. 31. Page S8149 line 9, was in violation of section 313(b)(1)(D) of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974; and that the Measures Passed: phrase ‘‘tuition-paying’’ as it appears on page 309, Authorizing the Use of the Rotunda: Senate line 12, and page 309, lines 14 through 15, was in agreed to S. Con. Res. 31, authorizing the use of the violation of section 313(b)(1)(D) of the Congressional rotunda of the Capitol for a ceremony to award the Budget Act of 1974, were sustained, and the mate- Congressional Gold Medal to Bob Dole. Page S8151 rial will be stricken from the conference report. Measures Considered: Page S8141 By 51 yeas to 48 nays (Vote No. 323), Senate National Defense Authorization Act: Senate agreed to the motion to recede from the Senate began consideration of the motion to proceed to con- amendment to H.R. 1 and concur therein with a sideration of S. 1519, to authorize appropriations for further amendment. Pages S8141–42 fiscal year 2018 for military activities of the Depart- ment of Defense, for military construction, and for Nomination Confirmed: Senate confirmed the fol- defense activities of the Department of Energy, to lowing nomination: prescribe military personnel strengths for such fiscal By 88 yeas to 11 nays (Vote No. EX. 320), Jen- nifer Gillian Newstead, of New York, to be Legal year. Pages S8073–74 Adviser of the Department of State. Conference Reports: Pages S8083, S8151 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: Senate began consideration Nominations Received: Senate received the fol- of the conference report to accompany H.R. 1, to lowing nominations: provide for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V Lisa Gordon-Hagerty, of Virginia, to be Under of the concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal Secretary for Nuclear Security, Department of En- year 2018. Pages S8088–S8142 ergy. During consideration of this measure today, Senate Andrea L. Thompson, of South Dakota, to be also took the following action: Under Secretary of State for Arms Control and Inter- By 51 yeas to 48 nays (Vote No. 321), Senate national Security. agreed to the motion to proceed to consideration of Susan A. Thornton, of Maine, to be an Assistant the conference report to accompany the bill. Secretary of State (East Asian and Pacific Affairs). Page S8088 Frank T. Brogan, of Pennsylvania, to be Assistant By 51 yeas to 48 nays (Vote No. 322), three-fifths Secretary for Elementary and Secondary Education, of those Senators duly chosen and sworn not having Department of Education. Page S8151 voted in the affirmative, Senate rejected the motion Messages from the House: Pages S8148–49 to waive all applicable sections of the Congressional Budget Act of 1974 and applicable budget resolu- Measures Referred: Page S8149 tions, with respect to the conference report to ac- Executive Reports of Committees: Page S8149 D1342

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D19DE7.REC D19DEPT1 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1343

Additional Cosponsors: Pages S8149–50 First Vice President, Mark L. Greenblatt, of Mary- Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: land, to be Inspector General, and Spencer Bachus Pages S8151–52 III, of Alabama, Judith Delzoppo Pryor, of Ohio, and Claudia Slacik, of New York, each to be a Mem- Additional Statements: Pages S8147–48 ber of the Board of Directors, all of the Export-Im- Amendments Submitted: Pages S8150–51 port Bank. Authorities for Committees to Meet: Page S8151 NOMINATIONS Privileges of the Floor: Page S8151 Committee on Foreign Relations: Committee concluded Record Votes: Four record votes were taken today. a hearing to examine the nominations of Peter (Total—323) Pages S8083, S8088, S8141, S8141–42 Hendrick Vrooman, of New York, to be Ambassador Adjournment: Senate convened at 10 a.m. on Tues- to the Republic of Rwanda, and Joel Danies, of day, December 19, 2017 and adjourned at 12:53 Maryland, to be Ambassador to the Gabonese Re- a.m. on Wednesday, December 20, 2017, until 11 public, and to serve concurrently and without addi- a.m. on the same day. (For Senate’s program, see the tional compensation as Ambassador to the Demo- remarks of the Majority Leader in today’s Record on cratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe, both of page S8151.) the Department of State, after the nominees testified and answered questions in their own behalf. Committee Meetings CONSIDERATION OF NOMINATIONS IN THE SENATE (Committees not listed did not meet) Committee on Rules and Administration: Committee BUSINESS MEETING concluded a hearing to examine S. Res. 355, improv- Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: ing procedures for the consideration of nominations Committee ordered favorably reported the nomina- in the Senate, after receiving testimony from Senator tions of Kimberly A. Reed, of West Virginia, to be Lankford. h House of Representatives Suspensions—Proceedings Resumed: The House Chamber Action agreed to suspend the rules and pass the following Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 10 pub- measures. Consideration began Monday, December lic bills, H.R. 4680–4689, were introduced. 18th. Pages H10245–46 Women in Aerospace Education Act: H.R. 4254, Additional Cosponsors: Pages H10246–47 amended, to amend the National Science Foundation Report Filed: A report was filed today as follows: Authorization Act of 2002 to strengthen the aero- H.R. 4478, to amend the Foreign Intelligence space workforce pipeline by the promotion of Robert Surveillance Act of 1978 to improve foreign intel- Noyce Teacher Scholarship Program and National Aeronautics and Space Administration internship and ligence collection and the safeguards, accountability, 2 and oversight of acquisitions of foreign intelligence, fellowship opportunities to women, by a ⁄3 yea-and- to extend title VII of such Act, and for other pur- nay vote of 409 yeas to 17 nays, Roll No. 690; and poses, with an amendment (H. Rept. 115–475, Part Pages H10200–01 1). Page H10245 Supporting Veterans in STEM Careers Act: H.R. 4323, amended, to promote veteran involve- Recess: The House recessed at 9:31 a.m. and recon- ment in STEM education, computer science, and sci- vened at 10 a.m. Page H10186 entific research, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 420 yeas Journal: The House agreed to the Speaker’s approval with one voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 693. Page H10215 of the Journal by a yea-and-nay vote of 227 yeas to Clerk to Correct Engrossment: Agreed by unani- 180 nays with one answering ‘‘present’’, Roll No. mous consent that, in the engrossment of H.R. 696. Pages H10186–87, H10230–31 4375, the Clerk be directed to make the change placed at the desk. Page H10201

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D19DE7.REC D19DEPT1 D1344 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST December 19, 2017 Agreed to amend the title so as to read: ‘‘To pro- education program to include human trafficking pre- vide for a report on broadening participation in cer- vention activities, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 418 tain National Science Foundation research and edu- yeas with one voting ‘‘nay’’, Roll No. 695. cation programs, to collect data on Federal research Pages H10218–20, H10229–30 grants to science agencies, and for other purposes.’’. Suspensions—Proceedings Postponed: The House Page H10201 debated the following measures under suspension of Tax Cuts and Jobs Act: The House agreed to the the rules. Further proceedings were postponed. conference report to accompany H.R. 1, to provide Jobs for Our Heroes Act: S. 1393, to streamline for reconciliation pursuant to titles II and V of the the process by which active duty military, reservists, concurrent resolution on the budget for fiscal year and veterans receive commercial driver’s licenses; and 2018, by a yea-and-nay vote of 227 yeas to 203 Pages H10215–17 nays, Roll No. 692. Pages H10189–10215 Rejected the Neal motion to recommit the con- No Human Trafficking on Our Roads Act: S. ference report to the committee of conference, by a 1532, to disqualify from operating a commercial yea-and-nay vote of 191 yeas to 236 nays, Roll No. motor vehicle for life an individual who uses a com- 691. Pages H10213–14 mercial motor vehicle in committing a felony involv- H. Res. 667, the rule providing for consideration ing human trafficking. Pages H10217–18 of the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. Quorum Calls—Votes: Eight yea-and-nay votes and 1) and the bill (H.R. 3312) was agreed to by a re- one recorded votes developed during the proceedings corded vote of 233 ayes to 193 noes, Roll No. 689, of today and appear on pages H10199, H10200, after the previous question was ordered by a yea-and- H10200–01, H10213–14, H10214, H10215, nay vote of 233 yeas to 187 nays, Roll No. 688. H10229, H10230, H10230–31. There were no Pages H10189–H10200 quorum calls. Motion to Fix Next Convening Time: Agreed by Adjournment: The House met at 9 a.m. and ad- unanimous consent to the Graves (MO) motion that journed at 7:11 p.m. when the House adjourns today, it adjourn to meet at 9 a.m. tomorrow, December 20 for Morning Hour Committee Meetings debate. Page H10215 MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE Systemic Risk Designation Improvement Act of 2017: The House passed H.R. 3312, to amend the Committee on House Administration: Full Committee Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Pro- held a markup on regulations implementing H. Res. tection Act to specify when bank holding companies 630, requiring each Member, officer, and employee may be subject to certain enhanced supervision, by of the House of Representatives to complete a pro- a yea-and-nay vote of 288 yeas to 130 nays, Roll gram of training in workplace rights and responsibil- No. 694. Pages H10220–29 ities each session of each Congress. The regulations Pursuant to the Rule, an amendment in the na- implementing H. Res. 630 were adopted. ture of a substitute consisting of the text of Rules SENATE AMENDMENT TO THE Committee Print 115–49, modified by the amend- DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY ment printed in H. Rept. 115–474, shall be consid- BLUE CAMPAIGN AUTHORIZATION ACT ered as adopted, in lieu of the amendment rec- OF 2017 ommended by the Committee on Financial Services Committee on Rules: Full Committee began a hearing now printed in the bill. Pages H10220–21 H. Res. 667, the rule providing for consideration on the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1370, the ‘‘De- of the conference report to accompany the bill (H.R. partment of Homeland Security Blue Campaign Au- 1) and the bill (H.R. 3312) was agreed to by a re- thorization Act of 2017’’ [Further Continuing Reso- corded vote of 233 ayes to 193 noes, Roll No. 689, lution]. Testimony was heard from Chairman after the previous question was ordered by a yea-and- Frelinghuysen, and Representatives Visclosky and nay vote of 233 yeas to 187 nays, Roll No. 688. Polis. Pages H10189–H10200 MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Full Committee held a and pass the following measure: markup on H.R. 4242, the ‘‘VA Care in the Com- Combating Human Trafficking in Commercial munity Act’’. H.R. 4242 was ordered reported, as Vehicles Act: S. 1536, to designate a human traf- amended. ficking prevention coordinator and to expand the scope of activities authorized under the Federal Joint Meetings Motor Carrier Safety Administration’s outreach and No joint committee meetings were held.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:48 Mar 28, 2018 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\RECORD17\DECEMBER\D19DE7.REC D19DE7 December 19, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D1345 COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR WEDNESDAY, hearings to examine freight movement, 10:30 a.m., DECEMBER 20, 2017 SD–406. (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) House Senate Committee on Rules, Full Committee, hearing on H.R. 4478, the ‘‘FISA Amendments Reauthorization Act of Committee on Environment and Public Works: Sub- 2017’’, 4 p.m., H–313 Capitol. committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, to hold

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D19DE7.REC D19DEPT1 D1346 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST December 19, 2017

Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 11 a.m., Wednesday, December 20 9 a.m., Wednesday, December 20

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Wednesday: Senate will be in a period of Program for Wednesday: Consideration of the House morning business. Amendment to the Senate Amendment to H.R. 1370— Further Continuing Resolution (Subject to a Rule).

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Kelly, Trent, Miss., E1723, E1729 Rosen, Jacky, Nev., E1730 Kinzinger, Adam, Ill., E1728 Roskam, Peter J., Ill., E1723 Boyle, Brendan F., Pa., E1728 Larson, John B., Conn., E1728 Ruiz, Raul, Calif., E1724, E1725, E1726 Cartwright, Matt, Pa., E1724 Lawrence, Brenda L., Mich., E1726 Sa´ nchez, Linda T., Calif., E1726 Cheney, Liz, Wyo., E1723 MacArthur, Thomas, N.J., E1724 Scalise, Steve, La., E1725 Davis, Danny K., Ill., E1730 McCollum, Betty, Minn., E1727 Dingell, Debbie, Mich., E1725, E1726, E1727 Messer, Luke, Ind., E1728 Simpson, Michael K., Idaho, E1727 Fitzpatrick, Brian K., Pa., E1727, E1728, E1729, E1730 Napolitano, Grace F., Calif., E1729 Sinema, Kyrsten, Ariz., E1726 Gonzalez, Vicente, Tex., E1726 Nolan, Richard M., Minn., E1725 Speier, Jackie, Calif., E1727 Green, Al, Tex., E1725 Palazzo, Steven M., Miss., E1729 Stefanik, Elise M., N.Y., E1724 Gutie´rrez, Luis V., Ill., E1729 Pascrell, Bill, Jr., N.J., E1730 Titus, Dina, Nev., E1723 Harper, Gregg, Miss., E1724 Price, David E., N.C., E1728 Wittman, Robert J., Va., E1725 Hudson, Richard, N.C., E1723 Richmond, Cedric L., La., E1723

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

VerDate Sep 11 2014 07:26 Dec 20, 2017 Jkt 079060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0664 Sfmt 0664 E:\CR\FM\D19DE7.REC D19DEPT1