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

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

Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 No. 85 House of Representatives The House met at 10 a.m. and was refused to allow her to leave the island. image to the outside world that the sit- called to order by the Speaker pro tem- We were lucky enough to have one of uation in Cuba is improving, but we pore (Mr. FITZPATRICK). the organization’s founding members, must not be fooled, Mr. Speaker. The f Blanca Reyes Castanon, with us ac- regime will do whatever it takes to re- cepting the award on the group’s be- main in power. That is its sole desire, DESIGNATION OF SPEAKER PRO half. to remain in power. We must be clear- TEMPORE I have had the privilege of knowing eyed. The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- both Blanca and Berta for so many We must be honest about what is fore the House the following commu- years, and it has been an honor for me really going on in Cuba. We must not nication from the Speaker: to be able to raise awareness about the be placated by the regime’s lies or by WASHINGTON, DC, brave and inspiring Ladies in White, those who repeat them. We must fight May 17, 2017. whether I do it here from the House for the truth and show the Cuban peo- I hereby appoint the Honorable BRIAN K. floor or by hosting them here in our ple that they are not alone, that to- FITZPATRICK to act as Speaker pro tempore Nation’s Capital or in my district in gether we all stand in solidarity with on this day. Miami, Florida. them in the pursuit of freedom, in the PAUL D. RYAN, Each Sunday in Cuba, the Ladies in pursuit of democracy and the ability to Speaker of the House of Representatives. White fight for their relatives and all practice their religion, to live without f political prisoners in Cuba, dem- fear of arbitrary arrests, to live with- MORNING-HOUR DEBATE onstrating peacefully as they walk to out fear of torture, and finally one day church. to be able to choose their own leaders. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Yet each Sunday, Mr. Speaker, they And we can start by supporting the ant to the order of the House of Janu- are harassed. They are beaten. They faces of Cuba’s future, the dissidents, ary 3, 2017, the Chair will now recog- are arrested by the regime’s thugs. the human rights champions, the de- nize Members from lists submitted by As a Cuban refugee myself, fleeing fenders of freedom, like the brave the majority and minority leaders for the island with my parents when I was women of the Ladies in White. They morning-hour debate. only 8 years old, I have seen how the represent the true Cuba. They are The Chair will alternate recognition regime has morphed and evolved its Cuba’s future. And it was my honor to between the parties, with each party methods of repression over the years. present them with the IRI’s 2017 Free- limited to 1 hour and each Member Its treatment of the Ladies in White dom Award last night. other than the majority and minority is emblematic of how it treats all polit- Congratulations to las Damas de leaders and the minority whip limited ical dissidents, with intimidation, with Blanco, the Ladies in White. to 5 minutes, but in no event shall de- harassment, with arbitrary arrests, f bate continue beyond 11:50 a.m. with short-term detentions, with deny- CALLING FOR IMPEACHMENT OF f ing them the ability to travel, by trying to bully dissidents into silence. THE PRESIDENT LADIES IN WHITE 2017 FREEDOM It attempts to disguise its tactics of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The AWARD repression, trying to fly under the Chair recognizes the gentleman from The SPEAKER pro tempore. The radar so that outside eyes are fooled or Texas (Mr. AL GREEN) for 5 minutes. Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from placated or feel that they can simply Mr. AL GREEN of Texas. Mr. Speak- Florida (Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN) for 5 min- look the other way. But we won’t, Mr. er, I rise today with a heavy heart. I utes. Speaker. We won’t look the other way. rise today with a sense of responsi- Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, Despite all of the propaganda, despite bility and duty to the people who have last night I had the honor of presenting all of the misguided policy over the elected me, a sense of duty to this the International Republican Insti- past years, the reality is that the re- country, a sense of duty to the Con- tute’s 2017 Freedom Award to great gime’s repression is only getting worse, stitution of the United States of Amer- freedom fighters in my native home- and dissidents like the Ladies in White ica. land of Cuba, the Ladies in White, las are bearing the brunt of the regime’s I rise today, Mr. Speaker, to call for Damas de Blanco, although my dear intimidation and violence. the impeachment of the President of friend Berta Soler, the leader of the The regime is terrified of anyone who the United States of America for ob- Ladies in White, was not able to be speaks for their God-given human struction of justice. I do not do this for there. Why? Because the Cuban regime rights in Cuba. It wants to project an political purposes, Mr. Speaker. I do

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

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VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.000 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4228 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 this because I believe in the great bring charges against the President. It Mr. Speaker, I rise today to remem- ideals that this country stands for, lib- is similar to an indictment but not ber Officer Brackeen and all of the offi- erty and justice for all, the notion that quite the same thing. cers throughout our country who serve we should have government of the peo- Once a President is impeached, then us so diligently every day who lost ple, by the people, for the people. the Senate can have a trial to deter- their lives serving our communities. It I do it because, Mr. Speaker, there is mine the guilt or innocence of the is really important for us as Americans a belief in this country that no one is President; whether he is guilty or not to thank those who put themselves in above the law, and that includes the guilty, to be more specific. But the harm’s way so we may live peaceful President of the United States of House of Representatives has a duty lives for our own benefit and for the America. that it can take up, and that is of im- benefit of our communities. Mr. Speaker, our democracy is at peachment. Our men and women in blue put their risk. Mr. Speaker, this offense has oc- I stand for impeachment of the Presi- lives on the line each and every day to curred before our very eyes. It is per- dent. How can you weigh in? Well, you keep us safe. When shots are fired, they spicuous. It is easy to understand. can contact my good friends over at run toward the sound of the gun while Mr. Speaker, we are talking about a Free Speech For People. At that orga- others are running away. I thank them President who fired the FBI Director nization, they have a petition. The pe- for their dedicated service, and I pray who was investigating the President tition would allow you to weigh in and each day for their continued safety. for his connections to Russian involve- become a part of the nearly 1 million f people who have already said the Presi- ment in the President’s election. HOLDING WHITE HOUSE dent ought to be impeached. You can Mr. Speaker, this is not about the ACCOUNTABLE President firing the FBI Director be- weigh in at The SPEAKER pro tempore. The cause he was investigating someone impeachdonaldtrumpnow.org. And be- Chair recognizes the gentleman from else. It is because the FBI Director was lieve me, if a plurality of the people are saying it now, and that is the poll New York (Mr. JEFFRIES) for 5 minutes. investigating the President himself. Mr. JEFFRIES. Mr. Speaker, the And after firing the Director, he went that I really put my emphasis on, the one that says a plurality believes that House of Representatives is a separate on to let us know that he considered and coequal branch of government. We the investigation when he fired him. the President should be impeached, more than 40 percent, I think that can don’t work for Donald Trump; we work And then he tweeted language that for the people of this great Nation. The would be intimidation or a warning, an grow. I assure you, once you weigh in, American people, there will be a dif- events of the last few months have admonition, very strong, to say the been deeply troubling. I am trying to very least. ference in the attitudes about this. I want to thank you, Mr. Speaker, for figure out when will my colleagues on Mr. Speaker, we cannot allow this to the other side of the aisle decide that it go unchecked. The President is not this opportunity because but for this opportunity, you might not hear my is time to do your jobs and hold the above the law. It is time for the Amer- White House accountable for its ac- ican people to weigh in. voice. I am a voice in the wilderness, but I assure you that history will vin- tions. When will you do your job? Mr. Speaker, the American people Seventeen different intelligence dicate me. I assure you that righteous- are a part of this democracy. This is a agencies concluded that Russia inter- ness will prevail. I assure you that no participatory democracy. The Amer- fered with our election for the purpose lie can live forever, and truth crushed ican people don’t participate on elec- of helping to elect Donald Trump, but to Earth will rise again. tion day only. The American people that was not enough. High-level Trump The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- participate daily, and this is your day allies such as Carter Page, his foreign bers are reminded to refrain from en- to act. This is your day. I am speaking policy adviser; Michael Flynn, his first gaging in personalities toward the to the American people. It is time for National Security Advisor; Jeff Ses- President, such as accusations that he you to act. It is time for you to let us sions, his Attorney General; Paul committed an impeachable offense. know where you stand. Manafort, his campaign chairman; Mi- I have seen a poll that indicates that f chael Cohen, his personal attorney; a majority of those who are being RECOGNIZING NATIONAL POLICE Roger Stone, his longtime political polled are for impeachment. And I have WEEK confidant; Jared Kushner, his senior seen another poll that says a plurality The SPEAKER pro tempore. The adviser and son-in-law—top Trump al- of those. Whether it is a majority or a Chair recognizes the gentleman from lies were having communications with the Russians at the same time that plurality, let us let the American peo- North Carolina (Mr. MCHENRY) for 5 ple weigh in. The American people minutes. they were hacking into our election. should speak up, speak out, stand up so Mr. MCHENRY. Mr. Speaker, I rise But apparently, that was not enough. that we will get a sense of what the this morning in recognition of National b 1015 American people want. Police Week and in honor of National Michael Flynn, the first National Se- This is not something to be taken Peace Officers Memorial Day, which curity Advisor, was demonstrated to lightly, and I do not. I think this is one was this past Monday. National Police have had an illegal conversation with of the highest callings that a Member Week was established by President the Russian Ambassador in December of Congress has to address. I believe Kennedy in 1962, as a day for Ameri- of 2016. He then lied about it to the that this is where your patriotism is cans to remember police officers who Vice President, who then delivered shown, where you demonstrate to the lost their lives in the line of duty over misleading information to the Amer- American people where you really the previous year. ican people. But guess what. For my stand. So I take this stand. It is a posi- This year’s Peace Officers Memorial colleagues on the other side of the tion of conscience for me. I have not Day was especially somber in my dis- aisle, that was not enough. talked to another person in Congress trict in western North Carolina as it The Attorney General testified under about this. Each Member of Congress was the first time since Shelby police oath before Congress, and he said he has to make his or her own decision, so officer Tim Brackeen was killed. had no communications with the Rus- this is not about my encouraging other Officer Brackeen was a dedicated law sians during the campaign. It was sub- people to do things, other than the enforcement officer who began his ca- sequently proven that he commu- American people. reer with the Cleveland County Sher- nicated with them twice at the Repub- This is about my position. This is iff’s Office and later joined the Shelby lican National Convention and then a what I believe. This is where I stand. I Police Department where, in 2012, he few months later in his office. He ei- will not be moved. The President must was honored as the officer of the year. ther lied under oath, committed per- be impeached. Last September, Officer Brackeen jury, or delivered misleading informa- For those who do not know, impeach- was working with his canine partner tion to Congress, which would be a mis- ment does not mean that the President Ciko when he was killed in the line of demeanor. Either way, he likely com- will be found guilty. It simply means duty, leaving behind his young wife mitted a crime. Silence from the other that the House of Representatives will and his 4-year-old daughter. side. Apparently that was not enough.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.058 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4229 Donald Trump refuses to release his and supporting others. I am proud to serve’s Patriot Award for their efforts tax returns, unlike every other Presi- recognize that kind of accomplishment helping an Active-Duty soldier work in dent since Gerald Ford, Republicans here today. their department while continuing his and Democrats. Mr. Speaker, I thank Jodi for all she service to our country through the What is the President hiding? does for our community. She is truly Army Reserve. We can’t figure it out. And appar- deserving of this award. Keep up the Created in 1972, the Employer Sup- ently for the other side, that is not great work. port of the Guard and Reserve was cre- enough. TEACHING LIFE LESSONS THROUGH ART ated to help employers understand the The Deputy Attorney General, Sally Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise obligations of their Active-Duty em- Yates, was fired by the President today to celebrate an educator in my ployees and how to meet any chal- shortly after she went to the White district who was recently named Min- lenges that may arise for those em- House and revealed her suspicion that nesota’s Middle Level Art Teacher of ployees. Michael Flynn may be a Russian asset. St. Francis Reserve Officer and Army the Year by the Art Educators of Min- But apparently that was not enough. Reserve Staff Sergeant Richard Sieber, nesota. The President fired Preet Bharara, whom they had been helping, nomi- Pam Schwandt began her teaching the U.S. Attorney for the Southern nated Chief Schwieger and Captain career 31 years ago at Lincoln Elemen- District of New York, shortly after it Johnson for this award. Serving in our tary School for the Arts in Anoka, was publically revealed that his office Nation’s Armed Forces is one of the Minnesota, where she was a favorite was investigating one of Trump’s Cabi- most noble ways one can assist our Na- teacher of one of my staffers. After 13 net Secretaries and close allies at FOX tion, and it is imperative that we help News. But for my Republican col- years in Anoka, Pam moved to Roo- the brave individuals who choose to leagues on the other side of the aisle, sevelt Middle School, where she has serve our country in any way that we that was not enough. been for the past 18 years. can. The former FBI Director revealed While Pam recognizes that not all of Mr. Speaker, I thank both Todd that the Trump campaign was under her students will become artists, she Schwieger and Richard Johnson for criminal investigation for possible col- believes many life lessons can be their dedication to our servicemem- lusion with the Russians. But for my taught through art. Pam has been help- bers, as well as their own service to our colleagues on the other side of the ing students learn how to find joy, in community through their work in the aisle, even that was not enough. addition to nurturing their creative St. Francis Police Department. Their Then the President fires the FBI Di- thinking and problem-solving skills work hasn’t gone unnoticed. through art. rector who is leading the investigation f into his campaign after it appears he Mr. Speaker, I speak for all Minneso- urged the FBI Director to drop the case tans when I say: Thank you, Pam. WE CANNOT ‘‘LET THIS GO’’ against his buddy Michael Flynn. But The best teachers are the ones who The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. JEN- even for my colleagues on the other go above and beyond just teaching a KINS of West Virginia). The Chair rec- side of the aisle, that is not enough. subject. The best teachers are the ones ognizes the gentleman from Texas (Mr. Mr. Speaker, there is a cloud of cor- like Pam, who teach lessons and skills DOGGETT) for 5 minutes. ruption hanging over 1600 Pennsylvania that our students will carry with them Mr. DOGGETT. Mr. Speaker, this is a Avenue. We are in the midst of a con- for the rest of their lives. Pam’s award very troubling time in American his- stitutional crisis. It is time for the is well deserved. tory. Our national security is endan- Speaker to get his head out of the OVERCOMING OBSTACLES gered, the very future of our democ- sand. It is time for House Republicans Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise racy is at stake, and without the con- to do the right thing. Support our de- today to praise the strength and re- tinued engagement of millions of peo- mand for a special prosecutor. Support solve of Forest Lake Patrol Officer ple across this country, this troubling our legislation for an independent com- Troy Meyer for not only overcoming time could become much worse. mission. It is time for House Repub- adversity over the past 3 years, but for There is an old adage: ‘‘Loose lips licans to put their country ahead of his amazing perseverance. sink ships.’’ But it is also true that their party. Troy has escaped death not just once, when it comes to the abuse of Presi- dential power, sealed lips can sink a de- f not twice, but three times by overcoming a severe brain infection, a lung mocracy. SAUK RAPIDS’ CITIZEN OF THE We have gone through a period where infection, and a double lung transplant YEAR, JODI SPEICHER it would appear that some of our Re- a year later. He also had surgery to republican colleagues are in a witness The SPEAKER pro tempore. The pair a hole in his heart just 6 months protection program because they have Chair recognizes the gentleman from after that. been unable to come forward with any Minnesota (Mr. EMMER) for 5 minutes. Despite his challenges, Troy always Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise words to comment on the continued moved ahead, determined to live life to today to honor Sauk Rapids’ Citizen of abuse of power that we see played out the fullest and to help as many people the Year, Jodi Speicher. each day, with one being more incred- as possible. He has done that by return- The Sauk Rapids Chamber of Com- ible than the one before. merce started this award in 1986 to rec- ing to his job on the police force only All United States intelligence serv- ognize individuals who have influenced 13 months after his third surgery. ices agree that the Russians interfered the community for the better. Mr. Speaker, Officer Meyer is an ex- in our last election. Russia deserves Jodi, a resident of Sauk Rapids over ample of the resiliency of the human sanctions, not secrets, not rewards. A the past 15 years, is known for her spirit. We are so thankful that he has President of the United States invited many contributions to this wonderful made a full and miraculous recovery. Putin’s gang right into the Oval Office. community. Whether she is striving for Forest Lake, the police department, We don’t know what they left behind to economic prosperity by working with and the State of Minnesota are fortu- listen to the rest of the conversations, the Sauk Rapids Chamber of Com- nate to have an individual like Troy although they may not need to learn merce, fighting to end disease through Meyer in our community. them surreptitiously since President her work with the Alzheimer’s Associa- SERVING TO SERVE OTHERS Trump, in such a cavalier way, pro- tion and the Walk to End Alzheimer’s, Mr. EMMER. Mr. Speaker, I rise ceeded to share secrets with them. helping to put on St. Cloud’s Expo for today to commend several police offi- At long last we wonder, what will Seniors, or advocating for our children cers in my district for receiving the awaken these Republicans from their by serving on the Community Edu- U.S. Department of Defense’s Patriot partisan stupor? We need them to cation board for the Sauk Rapids-Rice Award. speak out as well. School District, Jodi is always putting Police Chief Todd Schwieger and Po- Last night we learned that Trump her community first. lice Reserve Captain Richard Johnson asked FBI Director James Comey, be- It takes a very special person to dedi- both received the distinguished Em- fore firing him, to drop the investiga- cate so much of their time to helping ployer Support of the Guard and Re- tion into National Security Advisor

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.004 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4230 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 Michael Flynn, whom Trump had been TEACHER APPRECIATION WEEK of PFC contamination, and also by de- advised before he fired him that he was The SPEAKER pro tempore. The livering a report to Congress by the subject to being compromised by the Chair recognizes the gentleman from end of the summer assessing the num- Russians in his operations. Pennsylvania (Mr. FITZPATRICK) for 5 ber of military installations across the Our Republican colleagues need to minutes. country impacted and the effect on decide whether they want to be acces- Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I drinking water in the surrounding sories to Trump’s obstruction of justice rise today on behalf of our Nation’s communities, as well as department- as he continues to endanger our na- teachers. Teachers change lives every wide plans for community notification tional security. day across our Nation and around the of contamination and procedures for Trump’s firing of Director Comey is a world, shaping our students and our timely remediation. shocking example of incredible duplic- communities. However, our work cannot stop here. ity that threatens the very fabric of Each of us can remember a teacher Not only should a health study be exe- the future of American democracy. It who made an impression on our life as cuted to know if PFOS and PFOA have is a Nixonian dismissal that is designed an educator, a coach, or a mentor, compromised my constituents’ long- to obstruct further inquiry into collu- often beyond the walls of the class- term health, other issues must be ad- sion between the Trump campaign and room. dressed, including interacting with the Russia. Last week, in honor of Teacher Ap- Department of Veterans Affairs regard- Trump even said himself during his preciation Week 2017, I had the oppor- ing service-connected condition care NBC interview with Lester Holt that, tunity to travel the Eighth District to for military veterans potentially im- ‘‘regardless of the recommendation see firsthand the amazing work that pacted and finding ways to offset trick- from the Department of Justice,’’ he teachers do across Bucks and Mont- le-down costs for those forced to con- was prepared and planning to fire the gomery Counties. nect to public water in impacted areas. FBI Director because of what he was Throughout the week, I had the op- After a year, my constituents deserve doing with the Russian investigation. portunity to read to preschool students more answers, and we will give them to And that is part of a pattern: he fired at the Elbow Lane School in War- them. They demand action. I will fight the U.S. Attorney in New York City, he rington to discuss our national debt for both. fired Deputy Attorney General Sally with eighth graders in Newtown Middle f Yates, and he then fired Mr. Comey. If School, marked the Sanctuary Model you are perceived as crossing the line QUESTIONS FOR PRESIDENT accreditation of the Valley Day School TRUMP with President Trump, it is like an epi- in Morrisville, and held a student sode out of that old TV series ‘‘The Ap- townhall with the AP government class The SPEAKER pro tempore. The prentice:’’ You are fired. students at Bensalem High School. Chair recognizes the gentlewoman from But this is not make-believe. This is Mr. Speaker, I am proud to recognize Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) for 5 minutes. the future of American democracy. Teacher Appreciation Week, and I call Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, let me Every day we hear new coverup evi- on every American to carry out that raise several questions for President dence. What could possibly explain the appreciation for our teachers all year Donald Trump. The American people continued Republican silence, the cal- long. and Members of Congress would like to lous indifference? know the answers. Well, Trump is the Republican’s gold- b 1030 I am deeply concerned the President en ticket to denying healthcare cov- MY CONSTITUENTS DESERVE ANSWERS is compromising the national security erage to 24 million Americans and, at Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I of our Nation. Why would a President the same time, already showering, with rise today because this week marks the share intelligence information with the a bill passed in this House, almost $1 1-year anniversary since the EPA es- highest ranking operatives of Russia trillion of tax breaks to the superrich tablished the health advisory level of close to President Vladimir Putin? and a handful of special interests. 70 parts per trillion to limit the life- Though the President’s cavalier and, He is their winning ticket to award- time exposure to perfluorinated com- frankly, outrageous behavior conven- ing multinational tax dodgers more tax pounds like PFOA and PFOS. iently sucked up the airwaves last breaks while blowing a hole in the def- To some, these acronyms and this an- week, Americans cannot be distracted icit that can change Medicare and So- niversary may mean nothing, but to from his simultaneous firing of FBI Di- cial Security forever. me and my constituents—more than rector James Comey, an official who Trump reportedly told Comey: ‘‘I 70,000 Pennsylvanians in Bucks and spent his life protecting and defending hope you can let this go.’’ Montgomery Counties—it has been a the Constitution of our country on lib- My fellow Americans, FBI Director year of confusion, concern, and anger erty’s behalf. Comey could not let it go; and now sparked by the rightful fear that their Let me ask: Why were no U.S. jour- that he is gone. We cannot let this go. health has been endangered by these nalists allowed into the President’s This is not business as usual. This is PFCs. historic meeting with the Russian For- not just more tax breaks for the The use of firefighting foam at mili- eign Minister Lavrov and Russia’s Am- superrich, as Republicans are urging at tary bases in and around our district bassador to the United States for many a hearing tomorrow in this House. We has contaminated dozens of public years, Ambassador Kislyak, one of cannot let this go. wells and over 140 private wells with probably the highest ranking intel- History will be unkind to those who these compounds, leaving many resi- ligence officers as well as Ambassador could not find their voice at this crit- dents scared and municipalities and from Russia to the United States? To ical time in American history. I say it local governments looking for answers. my knowledge, no U.S. President has is time to truly put America first. Re- Mr. Speaker, every American de- ever received officials from Russia in ject Putin. Reject partisanship. Help serves access to clean, safe drinking the Oval Office and then brought only restore confidence in our democracy by water. Yet, for too many of my con- Russian journalists with digital record- supporting an independent special stituents, these elevated levels of PFCs ing equipment into that office. Let me counsel and the type of independent, have put them and their families at repeat that. We don’t know who they nonpartisan, nonpolitical inquiry that risk. were, but they brought equipment, dig- I have been calling for since last No- While work has been done, there is ital recording equipment. vember into this Russian interference. still far more work to do; and I am Think about that. Think about that. Mr. Speaker, too much is at stake to pleased that the recent government Meanwhile, the President excluded remain silent. We must join together funding measure included directions American press. Not a single journalist to address this challenge to our future. for the Secretary of Defense to con- from this country was allowed in. He The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- tinue addressing these pressing issues, replaced them with Russian state bers are reminded to refrain from en- specifically by requiring all military media operatives. Today, CNN reports gaging in personalities toward the services to establish procedures for that, how conveniently, President President. prompt and cost-effective remediation Vladimir Putin has now said he will

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.030 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4231 make available to America the tran- We can be certain TrumpCare re- merous community police depart- script of that meeting. He is willing to moves—removes—protections for our ments, the Nebraska State Patrol, and share it. Well, isn’t that nice? seniors and does not address the rising a handful of Federal agencies. They It is further alarming that his Na- costs of medications. His bill will take have unique differences in their respon- tional Security Advisor, General away assistance that closed the Medi- sibilities, yet they are strikingly simi- McMaster, said that, despite the Presi- care prescription drug hole after sen- lar in how they function. The different dent being unaware of the source of the iors reach a level of $2,500, costing shapes of the badges they wear on their information, at that meeting he made them over $1,000 more a year. chests proudly proclaim their distinct a spur-of-the-moment decision to tell Mr. Speaker, the American people de- alliance to their home agency, but it is the Russians what he knew about very serve security, they deserve jobs, they also a symbol that binds them all to- important intelligence we received deserve affordable education, and there gether into one brotherhood. from an ally. is no better time to start than today. These gallant law enforcement pro- It is starting to pile up, Mr. Presi- f fessionals are driven to serve the public dent: more and more reckless and cava- of their jurisdictions. They protect the lier behavior every day with America’s HABITAT FOR HUMANITY HELPS VETERANS life, limb, and property in their as- security stakes very high. signed patrol areas during their long I don’t have to remind my colleagues, The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. hours for which they have this solemn it is on the record. Russia has been FITZPATRICK). The Chair recognizes the duty. To those on the front line of our buzzing into U.S. airspace over Alaska. gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. safety, it is not about the pay, the Her submarines are along the East JENKINS) for 5 minutes. hours, or the conditions they work in. Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia. Mr. Coast. This isn’t exactly a friend to us. What is of importance to them is the Speaker, too many men and women If you want to make America great satisfaction of making the world a bet- who have served our Nation in uniform again, you do not compromise Amer- ter and safer place. They are the thin find themselves without stable, secure ica’s national security. blue line that stands between us and Not only is the President struggling housing. Statistics show a veteran is some of the darkest parts of our soci- for a coherent foreign policy that keeps almost twice as likely as a civilian to ety. experience homelessness. Americans safe and secure and doesn’t When one of these brave individuals make our allies quizzical, he fails to I rise today to recognize the work the puts on the uniform and departs their keep his attention on promises to Huntington, West Virginia, Area Habi- home for the streets, they are not wor- working Americans here on home turf, tat for Humanity is doing to reduce ried about their own safety. They know particularly on trade and jobs. Let’s veterans’ homelessness thanks to its their fellow officer has their back when take the promises he made to our steel- Veterans Housing Initiative. Because needed. At great personal sacrifice, workers in Ohio, that they will not lose of this Habitat initiative and support they are pained by missing the baseball their jobs, that America will be great from the Huntington VA Medical Cen- games or recitals of beloved children, again, that the coalfields will just ter’s Homeless Veterans Resource Cen- the birthdays and the holidays that boom; right? ter, veterans can now make down pay- Well, in Lorain, Ohio, thousands of ments and complete volunteer hours to they have worked instead of being steelworkers are losing their jobs, with buy their homes. home with their family. hundreds more, as I stand here today, I recently toured some of the homes I, like so many other members of the being pink-slipped and getting termi- built through this program in the his- military, have a very personal connec- nation notices unless the President toric Fairfield neighborhood in my tion and appreciation for those who takes action by the end of the first hometown of Huntington. So far, 10 choose this profession. I spent nearly 30 week in June. This is not the only com- homes have been built, and 5 are now years in the military, and much of that munity in America facing this, but it is called home by veterans and their fam- time was deployed with combat forces not getting any publicity because all ilies. protecting our freedoms overseas. The this other stuff is all over the front The housing not only helps veterans, men and women in the military uni- pages. but it also helps the community. These form depend on those back home in the We know we need direct and imme- homes will help revitalize the neigh- blue uniform. diate action to save America’s steel in- borhood, an area filled with possibili- Like so many others in the military, dustry that has been dumped on by ties. It also frees up more housing for when I was overseas, I left my wife and Chinese, Russian, and South Korean other veterans in need. As a veteran children in the U.S. As a five-time steel for years now. We need to stop moves into one of these homes, his or former commander, I can tell you that foreign-dumped steel. These workers’ her previous rental or apartment or the fastest way to negatively affect a jobs are directly impacted by what is room is now available to someone else soldier, sailor, airman, or marine with- happening at our borders with all that in need. in a combat situation was to have stuff coming in here. I am grateful to all the Habitat vol- them worry about their family back I have invited the President and his unteers and staff who are part of this home. Our great police officers allow Commerce Secretary, Wilbur Ross, to life-changing project. Thank you for the military to be a success. I am in Lorain, Ohio, to witness firsthand this what you are doing to give back to awe of the dedication that each officer unfolding tragedy. Well, no promises those who gave so much for our Nation. displays daily. When our military is re- are firm yet, not getting any accept- Veterans in Huntington now have a united with their family after a deploy- ances while our workers need to be brighter future and a path to home- ment, they can relax knowing their fel- thrown a life raft in the typhoon that ownership. low public servants provide a shield of protection. they are enduring. Perhaps it is hard to f make America great again if you are This is a profession that takes a dif- moving from one self-made crisis to an- NATIONAL POLICE WEEK ferent type of individual: someone who other and losing attention on the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The is consistently putting their life on the homeland. Chair recognizes the gentleman from line, someone that I have always Lorain County carried for Hillary Nebraska (Mr. BACON) for 5 minutes. looked up to, and a group of individuals Clinton, but only by 104 votes. It is a Mr. BACON. Mr. Speaker, I rise that I cannot thank enough for the Democratic county. They were hoping today to honor May 15 as Peace Offi- blanket of security they provide. jobs might actually begin to be in- cers Memorial Day and May 14 through There are members of the law en- creased in that area, not zeroed out. 20 as National Police Week. I stand in forcement community who serve, re- So let’s recap: a roller coaster foreign support of those who put their lives on tire, and move on with their lives. policy confusing not just us, but our al- the line day in and day out for the pro- Eventually they go home, lay down lies, and broken promises regarding tection of those within the State of Ne- their badge in retirement, but they will jobs. braska and all over the United States. no longer miss those family functions How about healthcare? Well, let’s My district is home to two sheriff’s and events. These professionals have take this—more confusion. offices, a large urban police force, nu- the gratitude of the constituents of my

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:21 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.007 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4232 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 district, and I want to thank them for We continue working to ensure the This special week began in 1962, when their dedication to protect and serve. woman who killed Endy goes to prison President John F. Kennedy signed a I would like to honor some of these for a long time. The people of Pearland proclamation which designated May 15 courageous people who have long, dis- are building a memorial at their police as Peace Officers Memorial Day. Every tinguished careers or who have re- station with Endy’s life on one wall. He year, the week on which that date falls cently retired: Sergeant Joe Eaton will be there with two others who lost is designated as National Police Week. from the Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, their lives in Pearland, Texas: Officer Since then, thousands of our officers 38 years and retired; Sergeant Troy Henry Wendell, Jr., end of watch, No- and their families from all across our Kister, Omaha Police Department, 29 vember 6, 1967; and Officer James Cas- great Nation come to Washington, years and retired; Captain Kevin sidy, Jr., end of watch, May 16, 1973. D.C., during this week to be recognized Pokorny, LaVista Police Department, I have kept up with Lucy. The last for their selfless duty and to honor 32 years and retired; Deputy Stephanie time we talked was early January. I those who have fallen in service to Squiers, Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, called to tell her that the entire Texas their community. 32 years and retired; Sergeant Don House delegation—36 strong, Repub- I have always believed that our Na- Voss, Sarpy County Sheriff’s Office, 39 licans and Democrats—signed my bill tion has a perennial obligation to pro- years and will soon retire; Deputy Den- to name the post office in Pearland vide our police officers with every nis Yeaman, Douglas County Sheriff’s after Endy. She was happy, but she ounce of support that we have to offer. Office, 42 years and still serving, near- still felt pain. That was the first These heroes deserve to know that the ing retirement. Christmas back home with Endy’s par- people of this Nation, for whom they I want to thank these officers and all ents in New York. have given so much, are forever grate- others for their service and sacrifice. Sadly, losses like Endy are still hap- ful. It really is the least that we can do pening. This week, we learned that a b 1045 for these brave men and women. deputy sheriff in Montana was shot and As a Member of Congress, I have Mr. Speaker, before I close, I am killed during a routine traffic stop; and committed myself to ensuring law en- often asked, as a 30-year, retired mili- a police chief was shot in response to a forcement is given all of the support tary officer, to pay tribute to our law domestic violence incident in upstate necessary, and more, to carry out their New York. And that was just yester- enforcement and to compare. And what selfless mission. Last year, around this day. This violence against our law en- strikes me is I used to operate or train time, we passed five key pieces of legis- forcement officials must end. in the safety of home, but we would de- lation which both honor our police and ploy into harm’s way. Our law enforce- During National Police Week, we honor these heroes, the ones we have ensure those still serving possess the ment, every single day, put themselves tools and equipment needed to carry in harm’s way. So we love our law en- lost, and we say a humble ‘‘thank you’’ to their families. We will never, ever out this responsibility. forcement, we respect them, and we Some of these bills included the Fall- thank them. forget their sacrifice. We pray for the day that Lucy and Julian can join en Heroes Flag Act of 2016, the Federal f Endy in Heaven. God bless Endy Law Enforcement Self-Defense and REMEMBERING AND HONORING Ekpanya and all of the heroes who gave Protection Act, and the Bulletproof ENDY EKPANYA their lives on duty. Vest Partnership Grant Program and Reauthorization Act. And again this The SPEAKER pro tempore. The f year, this week, we are doing the same: Chair recognizes the gentleman from HONORING PETER CYBULSKI AND passing legislation to protect our law Texas (Mr. OLSON) for 5 minutes. HAMEED ARMANI enforcement who sacrifice so much to Mr. OLSON. Mr. Speaker, as National protect us. Police Week ends, the 800,000 Texans I The SPEAKER pro tempore. The In recent years, our Nation has be- work for back home want to say Chair recognizes the gentleman from New York (Mr. ZELDIN) for 5 minutes. come fractured, and our police have ‘‘thank you’’ to all of the Americans Mr. ZELDIN. Mr. Speaker, many been subject to acts of violence and ha- who came to Washington, D.C., and all Americans, when faced with that split- tred. It is more important now than those that rose up in hometowns all second decision to act in a crisis with ever before that law enforcement re- across America to support our police selfless valor, or to flee, answer the ceives our unwavering appreciation, officers—our sheriffs, our JPs, our con- call of duty in service to their fellow support, and respect. Courage, leader- suls—and to join our heroes on that man. ship, and a commitment to service, thin blue line. In June 2016, NYPD Officers Peter these are the qualities embedded with- In Pearland, Texas, we want to thank Cybulski and Hameed Armani, both of in our members of law enforcement, all Americans for remembering and whom I had the privilege to meet last the traits by which they uphold deeply honoring one of our own: Pearland Po- month, were on patrol in Times Square with dignity and honor. lice Officer Endy Ekpanya. In 2016, 145 when a suspected bomb was thrown This week, and every week, it is so police officers were killed all across into their vehicle. Rather than important to honor those who have put America. Endy, sadly, joined that vacating their vehicle in place, these themselves into harm’s way to protect group. officers selflessly drove their car one- us, our families, and our communities. Endy was killed at 3:15 in the morn- and-a-half blocks away from the public Their sacrifices will, and should, be re- ing on Sunday, June 12, 2016, end of in a crowded Times Square. vered for generations to come. watch, 339 days ago. He was killed on a In that moment, when others might nonemergency call by a driver who was have simply fled the scene to save their f high on drugs or booze. She T-boned his own lives, Officers Cybulski and RECESS car. He was 30 young years old. Armani were prepared to sacrifice ev- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Endy left behind the love of his life, erything to save the people they were ant to clause 12(a) of rule I, the Chair his fiance, Lucy, and his 2-year-old son, sworn to protect. This selfless act of declares the House in recess until noon Julian. They mourned in front of bravery is just one of so many acts of today. Endy’s flag-draped coffin at his service heroism by our police officers every Accordingly (at 10 o’clock and 54 back home the week of his death. single day. minutes a.m.), the House stood in re- Endy’s loss brought out the best in This week is National Police Week, cess. Pearland, Brazoria County, in south- where we honor our members of law en- east Texas. They shared tears with forcement and remember the sacrifices f Lucy and Julian. They swarmed them of those who have lost their lives in the b 1200 with love. Every single Pearland police line of duty. The brave men and women officer left duty on that day to be protecting our communities deserve AFTER RECESS there, but Pearland was protected by recognition for their selfless acts of The recess having expired, the House police officers all over southeast Texas courage and commitment to serving was called to order by the Speaker at rising to the occasion. our Union. noon.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:43 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.009 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4233 PRAYER mony. He worked closely with the Mus- thousands of people, many of whom he Rabbi Thomas A. Louchheim, Con- lim community in the aftermath of had never met, lined up to pay their re- gregation Or Chadash, Tucson, Ari- September 11 and has continued to pro- spects; he saw cops in uniform from all zona, offered the following prayer: mote understanding by organizing an- over the country, from New York, Chi- Loving God, each day raise up these nual Muslim-Jewish peace walks. cago, Oregon, and Canada; he saw He founded the first Jewish-Chris- good women and men who are serving mourners and even pallbearers in green tian-Muslim Scriptural study group in our country with honor. Renew in them and gold to honor his love of the Green our community and has contributed to the faith, hope, and love that brought Bay Packers; and he saw blue ribbons interfaith literature. In a world where them to this vital work. Rekindle in everywhere. religion too often divides us, Rabbi them the passion that first called them In a time when law enforcement is Louccheim has shown that we are all to serve. targeted and too often politicized, we stronger together. must never take for granted the dan- May you, our elected Representatives Rabbi Louchheim’s influence extends from every State in our great Nation, gers that they face. Every day and past southeastern Arizona. In fact, his every night, they leave their homes be granted today the courage of your influence reaches beyond this Earth. convictions; and may your eyes, your and their families to protect ours. The rabbi is a namesake for the only They put their lives on the line to pro- ears, and your hearts be open to the space object in the universe named possibilities not yet imagined. tect ours. after a rabbi, Asteroid 9584 Louccheim. For their loved ones, all they hope Compassionate God, may our fellow I was honored to join Rabbi Americans remember that these, Your for, all they pray for, is to hear the car Louccheim in a Holocaust Remem- pull into the driveway and see that fa- servants, are each made in the divine brance walk last year. I have person- image. They are our brothers and sis- miliar face come through the door. ally witnessed his compassion and lead- And when the unspeakable happens, ters in a family bridging all philo- ership in the faith community in sophical lines. May we treat them with when their watch is cut short, ours is southeastern Arizona. I am honored to only beginning. The support that we respect, for we know not the hard bat- welcome him to the House of Rep- tles they must fight. give to their families, the respect and resentatives today and to personally the appreciation we show for their fel- May Your blessings be on our mili- thank him for offering this morning’s tary and diplomats serving overseas. low officers—it is the least we can do prayer. as citizens, and must do, this week and Keep them safe from harm. Keep their f souls strong, and strengthen them to every week. Today I ask the whole House to join serve with honor and courage. ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER me in expressing our profound grati- May our prayers for kindness, jus- PRO TEMPORE tude to law enforcement officers here tice, freedom, and peace, be answered The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. in the Capital and across the Nation. in our own day. MURPHY of Pennsylvania). The Chair Amen. will entertain up to 15 further requests f f for 1-minute speeches on each side of CELEBRATING 50TH ANNIVERSARY the aisle. OF REUNIFICATION OF JERU- THE JOURNAL f SALEM The SPEAKER. The Chair has exam- RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL (Mr. SUOZZI asked and was given ined the Journal of the last day’s pro- POLICE WEEK permission to address the House for 1 ceedings and announces to the House minute.) his approval thereof. (Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin asked and was given permission to address the Mr. SUOZZI. Mr. Speaker, I rise Pursuant to clause 1, rule I, the Jour- today to introduce bipartisan H. Res. nal stands approved. House for 1 minute.) Mr. RYAN of Wisconsin. Mr. Speaker, 328 with my colleague from Florida, f I am proud to stand before the House FRANCIS ROONEY, celebrating the 50th anniversary of the reunification of Je- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE today to recognize National Police Week. rusalem. The SPEAKER. Will the gentleman Every year at this time, law enforce- For centuries, the Jewish people from Texas (Mr. WILLIAMS) come for- ment officials from around the country yearned to pray at the Western Wall, ward and lead the House in the Pledge gather here to pay tribute to their fall- the only remaining connection to the of Allegiance. en brethren and to stand with their Great Temple destroyed in 70 A.D., a Mr. WILLIAMS led the Pledge of Al- families. It is yet another measure of cry that infused their daily prayers. legiance as follows: their commitment to protect and Fifty years ago, in 1967, this mere I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the serve. hope became a reality when Jerusalem United States of America, and to the Repub- Over just this last year, four of Wis- was finally reunified at the conclusion lic for which it stands, one nation under God, consin’s finest have lost their lives in of the Six-Day War. indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. the line of duty: Trooper Anthony Of that precious moment, Yitzhak f Borostowski of the Wisconsin State Pa- Rabin recounted: ‘‘We stood among a trol; Deputy Dan Glaze of the Rusk tangle of rugged, battle-weary men WELCOMING RABBI THOMAS A. who were unable to believe their eyes LOUCCHEIM County Sheriff’s Office; Officer Michael Venture of the Town of Salem’s De- or restrain their emotions. Their eyes The SPEAKER. Without objection, partment of Public Safety; Detective were moist with tears, their speech in- the gentlewoman from Arizona (Ms. Jason Weiland of the Everest Metro- coherent. The overwhelming desire was MCSALLY) is recognized for 1 minute. politan Police Department. to cling to the Wall, to hold on to that There was no objection. Earlier this year, Detective Weiland great moment as long as possible.’’ Ms. MCSALLY. Mr. Speaker, I rise was killed establishing a perimeter The reunification of Jerusalem re- today to honor Rabbi Thomas during a standoff with a shooter who stored the city as a beacon of religious Louccheim, who led us in the opening took the lives of three people. Jason freedom for all of the Abrahamic reli- prayer. He is a rabbi at the Congrega- left behind a wife and two children. gions and the rights of Jews, Muslims, tion Or Chadash in Tucson, Arizona. Anna, his daughter, almost 11 years and Christians to pray at their respec- Rabbi Louccheim moved to Tucson old, spoke at the funeral: ‘‘Our dad was tive holy sites. with his wife, Marcia, in 1989 and has an amazing man that saved lives every We share the joy of our brothers and been a pillar in our community ever day,’’ she said. ‘‘We all know he is al- sisters as we celebrate this special since. ways and will be forever in our hearts. milestone and as we continue to strive Having served as a rabbi at Temple He’ll be looking down on us, laughing for a two-state solution between Emanu-El and as an executive for and crying.’’ Israelis and Palestinians. In a world of Handmaker Hospice, he is a strong ad- Looking down that day, Anna’s dad increasing instability, our enduring re- vocate for peace and religious har- saw some remarkable things: He saw lationship with Israel was never more

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:43 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.012 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4234 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 vital, and I am honored to stand with Democrats all, cannot allow this to Democrats and Republicans both have our close friend and ally. happen, ever. to stand together on this. f f We need an independent commission to investigate this problem, and we HONORING BRANCH COUNTY SHER- RECOGNITION OF NATIONAL need to do it now. IFF POSSE DEPUTY MICHAEL POLICE WEEK The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- WINTER (Mr. WILLIAMS asked and was given bers are reminded to refrain from en- (Mr. WALBERG asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 gaging in personalities toward the permission to address the House for 1 minute.) President of the United States. minute.) Mr. WILLIAMS. Mr. Speaker, I rise f Mr. WALBERG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to speak on behalf of law en- today to remember Branch County, forcement not only in my district, but HONORING KIRKERSVILLE POLICE Michigan, Sheriff Posse Deputy Mi- around the Nation. CHIEF STEVEN DISARIO chael Winter, who lost his life in the This week is National Police Week, (Mr. TIBERI asked and was given line of duty. He is survived by his wife, and it marks an important time for our permission to address the House for 1 Connie, and two daughters, Cheyenne country. These men and women are an minute.) and Sierra. elite group worthy of our praise and Mr. TIBERI. Mr. Speaker, this week Deputy Winter was known as a com- recognition. They are true American is Police Week, a time we honor all our mitted family man with a sense of patriots whose acts of courage must be officers, especially those who have fall- humor and a big smile. He loved being honored and acknowledged. en in the line of duty keeping us safe. around horses and loved the posse. Too many heroes lost their lives in So today I rise in honor and remember From his time in the United States the line of duty last year. Multiple of Kirkersville, Ohio, Police Chief Steven Navy to the Branch County Sheriff’s them were in my home State of Texas, DiSario. Posse, Deputy Winter was the type of as well as in my district. Chief DiSario, a father of six with a person who put his community and Every single day, Federal, State, and baby on the way, was killed in the line country before himself. He is a hero in local police officers around the country of duty on May 12, 2017. He died at the every sense of the word. put their lives on the line to protect hands of a gunman who also killed two This week, during National Police their fellow Americans. Mr. Speaker, I employees at a local nursing home, Week, his name was carved into the came up here to speak on behalf of all Marlina Medrano and Cindy Krantz. National Law Enforcement Officers Americans and express our apprecia- This is a tragedy that truly tests the Memorial here in Washington, D.C. It tion for our law enforcement. These are strength of a community, the strength is a lasting tribute to those who paid the men and women who dedicate their of neighbors, and the strength of our the ultimate sacrifice to protect us. lives to keeping the peace and carrying law enforcement community. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of a grateful out justice. To Chief DiSario’s family: I can’t nation, we honor Deputy Winter’s Congress has worked and will con- imagine the grief and the anguish you memory and his service to Branch tinue to work hard to guarantee that must be feeling. We are heartbroken County and our country. He will not be these brave men and women are pro- for your loss. Please know that your forgotten. vided with the tools needed to do their husband, your father, your son, was an f jobs and maintain public safety. We American hero. His memory will never will also remain persistent to ensure JUSTICE DEPARTMENT SHOULD be forgotten, and it is there that I pray those who harm law enforcement offi- APPOINT AN INDEPENDENT you find hope. Today and every day, cers are brought to justice. PROSECUTOR may God bless you and all our police I applaud those in law enforcement officers and their families. (Mr. HIGGINS of New York asked and who have voluntarily put their lives on was given permission to address the the line for all of us. f House for 1 minute.) In God we trust. b 1215 Mr. HIGGINS of New York. Mr. f Speaker, last night we learned that AMERICA’S DRINKING WATER President Trump may have tried to IT IS TIME TO PUT COUNTRY INFRASTRUCTURE interfere with an ongoing investiga- BEFORE PARTY (Mr. TONKO asked and was given tion, asking the FBI Director to end an (Mr. KILDEE asked and was given permission to address the House for 1 investigation into his former National permission to address the House for 1 minute and to revise and extend his re- Security Adviser’s ties to Russia. minute.) marks.) The Justice Department today Mr. KILDEE. Mr. Speaker, it seems Mr. TONKO. Mr. Speaker, I rise to should appoint an independent pros- like, with this White House, there is a call urgent attention to America’s ecutor to aggressively pursue the new crisis every single day. drinking water infrastructure. Every truth. There are a lot of informational On Monday, it was reported that the day, more than 700 water mains break dots. They either connect or they President revealed classified informa- in cities, towns, and villages across our don’t. tion in the Oval Office to Russians, great country. Every day, 7 billion gal- There is no dispute that Russia inter- compromising our national security, lons of clean drinking water are lost fered with the United States’ Presi- compromising our ability to gather in- due to leaks and breaks in our water dential election. The question is: Did telligence on ISIS, compromising our infrastructure. That is treated water Russia interfere with the Presidential ability to keep America safe. and our tax dollars down the drain. election in coordination with the Now we learn that the President With as many as 10 million lead serv- Trump campaign? tried to interfere with an ongoing in- ice lines in use today and dozens of new It is deeply troubling that the Attor- vestigation, asking the head of the FBI unregulated contaminants, the threat ney General recused himself—a self-de- to lay off his National Security Ad- to public health goes far beyond Flint, clared conflict—from the Russian in- viser, Mr. Flynn, to leave it alone, to Michigan, and Hoosick Falls, New vestigation and then played a role in let it go. York. Our Federal Government has a firing the man leading it. This is an abuse of power, there is no duty to protect the people of this coun- The American people rightfully sus- two ways about it, and Democrats and try. We must act decisively to address pect the decision to fire the FBI Direc- Republicans have to stand up and do this growing challenge. tor is part of a coverup. Appoint a spe- our constitutional duty to protect this We maintain roads and bridges and cial prosecutor to pursue the truth. democracy. Partisanship has to be set ports and railways and so much more, Despots all over the world like Putin aside. We have to do our job. We have but our investment in our water sys- want to discredit American democracy to serve the American people, and we tems has not kept up, and now these to keep their own people from wanting have to protect this precious democ- systems are failing. Many State and it. We as Americans, Republicans and racy and do our constitutional duty. local governments can’t keep up. They

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:43 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.014 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4235 need our help. This job needs to get licans, to defeat this short-sighted pro- minute and to revise and extend his re- done now, this year, in this budget. posal and, instead, advance real, com- marks.) Mr. Speaker, I urge you to join me in prehensive solutions to this public Mr. LAHOOD. Mr. Speaker, I rise supporting H.R. 1071, the AQUA Act. health epidemic. today in recognition of National Police Let’s respond to these great Nation’s f Week, a time to honor and thank law drinking water challenges with enforcement officers for all they do in THE UNITED STATES AND TAIWAN strength, compassion, and passion. service to our communities. f (Ms. FOXX asked and was given per- As a former State and Federal pros- mission to address the House for 1 ecutor, I have worked with law enforce- IVY FRANCES SHOEMAKER AKA minute.) ment officers at every level: local, NUMBER 12 Ms. FOXX. Mr. Speaker, the mutual State, and Federal. I watched as they (Mr. POE of Texas asked and was relationship between the United States tirelessly worked to carry out justice given permission to address the House and Taiwan—enshrined in the Taiwan and keep our communities safe. for 1 minute and to revise and extend Relations Act of 1979 and reinforced by As a Member of Congress, I have the his remarks.) the Six Assurances of 1982—has en- privilege of representing a district that Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, she dured, due to our shared beliefs in is both rural and urban. I have seen the was born at evening time as a full democratic government, freedom of ex- different challenges that our officers Moon rose over Texas. Ivy Frances pression, the rule of law, and a market have faced. They have done it in a tre- Shoemaker joined the world weighing 7 economy. mendous way, both at the local police pounds and was 20 inches long. Her It is my hope that this relationship level and at the sheriff level. The work birth was on May 9 in Dallas. will continue to deepen and strengthen and effort put in by the officers in each The miracle of birth is God’s blessing in all areas. I hope the Trump adminis- community never ceases to amaze me. to the rest of us. It is a blessing to tration will move expeditiously with a It is a big reason why our district has Ivy’s parents, Kellee and Anthony, and military sales package that will help continued to thrive with vibrant and her sisters, Olivia and Rosalyn. to guarantee Taiwan’s security and safe communities. Ivy, of course, is a beautiful, smart- freedom for the future. This work does not come without its looking baby. She has the privilege to The people of Taiwan have great risks. Far too many officers pay the ul- be born to wonderful parents who will friends in the people of the United timate price. Last year in South Jack- raise her to grow in widsom and stat- States. I know many of my colleagues sonville, Illinois, in my district, one of ure in the Lord. will join me in expressing our shared its own was killed in the line of duty. My wife, Carol, and I are the proud desire to work together with our Losses like this are devastating for grandparents of Ivy, whom I will call friends on the old and new challenges both the families and our communities. from time to time, number 12. that Taiwan faces. We must never forget their sacrifices Mr. Speaker, you see, I refer to my Mr. Speaker, I wish President Tsai and we must continue to work to keep other grandchildren by their birth and the people of Taiwan all the best our officers protected. numbers as well. There are 11 of them. on their first anniversary of her admin- Mr. Speaker, I am proud of the work My hope for Ivy is that she sees the istration. the House is doing this week to do just importance of being good to others; f that. I thank every law enforcement of- that she makes the world a better HONORING LAW ENFORCEMENT ficer for their commitment and dedica- place; that she is faithful to the Lord; tion towards keeping America safe. that she appreciates her heritage; and OFFICERS that, of course, she always lives in (Mrs. MURPHY of Florida asked and f Texas. was given permission to address the OUR WATER INFRASTRUCTURE And that is just the way it is. House for 1 minute.) f Mrs. MURPHY of Florida. Mr. Speak- (Mr. MCNERNEY asked and was er, it is National Police Week, and I given permission to address the House THE OPIOID CRISIS rise to honor law enforcement officials for 1 minute and to revise and extend (Mr. CICILLINE asked and was given who protect our communities. I also his remarks.) permission to address the House for 1 pay tribute to the thousands of men Mr. MCNERNEY. Mr. Speaker, today minute.) and women who have died in the line of we are talking about infrastructure. I Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, our Na- duty. There are few jobs more impor- want to focus on one aspect of infra- tion is in the middle of a public health tant or more perilous than that of a po- structure that touches the lives of all crisis. Drug overdoses are now killing lice officer. Americans, especially in my home more Americans each year than car ac- Since I took office in January, there State of California, and that is water. cidents. And 336 Rhode Islanders died have been at least four incidents in or I know firsthand the urgent chal- last year as a result of a drug overdose. near my central Florida district where lenges facing our water infrastructure. That is up from 290 in 2015 and 238 a police office was shot. In one of those The crippling recent drought and sub- deaths in 2014. cases, an officer, Orlando Police Lieu- sequent record rainfall has prompted Nationwide, overdose deaths involv- tenant Debra Clayton, lost her life. more discussion on a need for a smart ing prescription and illicit opioids have Because they run towards danger, po- water management strategy to im- quadrupled since 1999. This is a crisis lice officers face unimaginable chal- prove drinking water, water reuse, and that threatens Americans of all dif- lenges. Last June, an armed attacker recycled water systems for commu- ferent backgrounds—young and old, entered the Pulse nightclub in Orlando nities across the United States. Black and White, urban and rural. It is and opened fire, killing 49 people. We must take meaningful steps to in- a crisis, plain and simple. Showing no regard for their own safe- crease our water conservation, reduce All of us who serve the government ty, Orlando officers charged into the unnecessary energy use, and cut costs have a responsibility to stop it. That is club, eventually bringing that long, for Americans. Let’s commit to invest- why I was so alarmed earlier this dark night to an end. ing in technology and science-based so- month when I learned that President Mr. Speaker, despite the risks, they lutions that will address the weak- Trump is considering slashing funding put on their uniforms every day. So to nesses in our water drinking systems for the Office of National Drug Control all the brave officers around this coun- from threats like climate change, Policy by 95 percent. Slashing funding try, I say: Thank you. crumbling pipes, and water source con- for the lead Federal agency in this f tamination. fight would have a devastating impact Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to on families in Rhode Island and all RECOGNIZING NATIONAL POLICE focus on legislation that will put across our country. WEEK Americans back to work building the Let’s work together. Let’s work (Mr. LAHOOD asked and was given systems we need to support the future across the aisle, Democrats and Repub- permission to address the House for 1 of this great country.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:43 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.016 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4236 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE THE NEED FOR INFRASTRUCTURE and to ensure that Congress invests in WEEK INVESTMENT our infrastructure. (Mrs. LAWRENCE asked and was (Ms. ESTY of Connecticut asked and given permission to address the House was given permission to address the f for 1 minute.) House for 1 minute.) Mrs. LAWRENCE. Mr. Speaker, I rise Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. Mr. Speak- b 1230 today to join my colleagues in cele- er, I rise to recognize National Infra- brating the fifth annual National Infra- structure Week and to urge my col- COMPROMISING SENSITIVE structure Week and to highlight the leagues on both sides of the aisle to INFORMATION urgent need for Congress to pass a com- work together and pass a bipartisan in- (Ms. ROSEN asked and was given per- prehensive transportation and infra- frastructure bill. mission to address the House for 1 structure bill. The fact is, Mr. Speaker, we cannot minute.) Mr. Speaker, in the summer of 2003, a run a 21st century economy on a mid- Ms. ROSEN. Mr. Speaker, I find it power outage swamped the Eastern 20th century infrastructure. deeply disturbing that highly classified United States and Canada, including Our roads are filled with potholes, intelligence information from Israel, Detroit, which I represent, and left 50 costing commuters, on average, $520 a our indispensable ally, was carelessly million people without power for sev- year in repairs. Traffic congestion adds compromised by President Trump in a eral days. another $960 per year in fuel and lost meeting with Russian officials. In 2007, a bridge on I–35 West in Min- productivity. By recklessly sharing this sensitive neapolis collapsed into the Mississippi Too many of our bridges are struc- intelligence, the President has not only River. Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, turally deficient and past their 50-year endangered our troops, intelligence of- these are not isolated incidents. lifespan. As the Flint lead crisis pain- ficials, and sources who risk their lives In my home State of Michigan, our fully demonstrated, our water infra- every day to keep us safe, but he has cities are home to some of the worst structure is failing to provide too jeopardized the relationship we have roads in the country. A recent study by many Americans with water that is with our most important ally in the a nonprofit ranked Detroit’s roads the safe to drink. Middle East, Israel. fourth worst in the country. It is time to stop talking about infra- If we wish to defeat ISIS, the Presi- Mr. Speaker, Michigan deserves bet- structure. It is time for Congress to dent must rectify this unacceptable ter, and Americans across the country act. The systems that allow us to trav- blunder. The American people must re- deserve and demand more. I, as an ex- el from place to place, provide us with ceive immediate assurances that this cited member of the Congressional In- clean drinking water, and dispose of administration is doing everything frastructure Committee, stand ready to waste are not luxuries; they are essen- necessary to repair any damage caused work on future infrastructure bills and tials. by the President’s reckless actions. to work for the needs of the people. Mr. Speaker, let’s pass a bipartisan The role of Commander in Chief is infrastructure plan. Let’s invest in one that must be taken seriously and f safety, jobs, and the competitiveness of should never result in the compro- American businesses. mising of our most sensitive informa- FOCUSING ON OUR f tion, especially to a foreign adversary INFRASTRUCTURE at the expense of one of our strongest (Mrs. BUSTOS asked and was given INVESTING IN OUR NATION’S allies. permission to address the House for 1 INFRASTRUCTURE minute.) (Ms. JAYAPAL asked and was given f Mrs. BUSTOS. Mr. Speaker, on the permission to address the House for 1 first day of this month, President minute and to revise and extend her re- HONORING JONATHAN DE GUZMAN Trump promised an infrastructure marks.) AND ALL OFFICERS DURING NA- package ‘‘in the next 2 to 3 weeks, Ms. JAYAPAL. Mr. Speaker, I rise to TIONAL POLICE WEEK maybe sooner.’’ recognize National Infrastructure (Mrs. DAVIS of California asked and Here we are into week three and in Week. was given permission to address the the middle of National Infrastructure In my first few months in Congress, I House for 1 minute.) Week. So, Mr. President, where is the made it a priority to meet with elected Mrs. DAVIS of California. Mr. Speak- plan? officials from every municipality and er, every day men and women in the I wish we were spending today work- jurisdiction in my Washington State police force put their lives on the line ing together to create jobs by making congressional district. I met with them to keep us safe. Let me tell you about meaningful investments in our roads, to understand their critical transpor- one of these extraordinary heroes: San our bridges, our rail, and our airports. tation and infrastructure needs. Today Diego Police Department Officer Jona- That is what the hardworking men and I am releasing a report on those needs. than De Guzman, or JD, as his friends women I represent wish Washington I am proud that my district con- knew him. would focus on, too. But, instead, at tinues to draw in more and more people JD dedicated his life to protecting breakfast tables all over the country, and that we have assets like a natural the San Diego community he loved. His moms and dads turn on the morning deep water port that facilitates com- bravery shows the kind of unique self- news and have to explain to their kids merce from across our State. lessness found in police officers. After what is an obstruction of justice before Unfortunately, between 1990 and 2015, suffering a brutal stabbing from a sus- putting their kids on the school bus as our State’s population increased by pect, JD went back to the force, and and traverse our bumpy and potholed 45 percent, Seattle has now got the sec- that same year he won the San Diego roads. ond worst evening rush hour traffic in Police Department Purple Heart award This is a dark moment in our Na- the country. We have failed to invest in for bravery in the line of duty. tion’s history. History demands that our infrastructure. Tragically, on July 28, 2016, Officer we rise to the occasion. Nobody is This administration made promises De Guzman, a 16-year veteran of the above the law, not even the President but has done nothing to actually fulfill force, was shot and killed, a hero taken of the United States of America. those promises to invest in infrastruc- from us too early. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ture and to ensure that our country ac- There is a special honor in rep- do the right thing for the good of our tually moves forward. Instead, it has resenting those who serve us every sin- country. Join us in demanding a true just been lurching from crisis to crisis. gle day, those like San Diego’s own JD, and independent investigation to get to Investing in infrastructure is not Officer De Guzman. Thank you to the the bottom of the President’s ties to only essential, it creates jobs. I intend brave men and women of our police Vladimir Putin and any possible at- to do everything I can to make sure force. Your sacrifice and your strength tempted coverup. that I fight for my district’s priorities keep us safe.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:43 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.018 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4237 NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE fice, he was going to put forth a tril- ommended by the Committee on the Judici- WEEK lion-dollar infrastructure package. ary now printed in the bill, an amendment in the nature of a substitute consisting of the (Mr. CARBAJAL asked and was given Where is that package? We haven’t seen it. text of Rules Committee Print 115–17 shall be permission to address the House for 1 considered as adopted. The bill, as amended, minute.) The economy is the number one shall be considered as read. All points of Mr. CARBAJAL. Mr. Speaker, today thing we should all be focusing on. Ev- order against provisions in the bill, as I urge President Trump again to make erything else should fall into place amended, are waived. The previous question good on his promise of partnering with after that. Yet this White House is too shall be considered as ordered on the bill, as Congress to invest $1 trillion in Amer- busy in turmoil to take care of the core amended, and on any further amendment business of this country. thereto, to final passage without intervening ica’s infrastructure. motion except: (1) one hour of debate equally This week marks National Infra- It is actually White House crisis week again. That is a sad comment, divided and controlled by the chair and rank- structure Week; and yet, disappointing minority member of the Committee on ingly, little action has been taken by but it is the truth. Once again we hear the Judiciary; and (2) one motion to recom- this President and the majority in Con- about a President who is not respecting mit with or without instructions. gress to provide substantive funds for the fact that we have allies around the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- our Nation’s crumbling infrastructure. world who are there sharing informa- tleman from Colorado is recognized for Easing congestion on our highways is tion that should not be shared with the 1 hour. just one investment that will have a Russians, and yet, at the same time, Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, for the pur- significant return, getting central this President chooses to violate that pose of debate only, I yield the cus- coast residents to their jobs and back responsibility. tomary 30 minutes to the gentleman The American people and economy home to their families faster. from Florida (Mr. HASTINGS), my This is also an issue of safety for our are losing confidence in our President friend, pending which I yield myself constituents. California currently has and our White House. They shouldn’t such time as I may consume. During over 1,300 structurally deficient be given these disturbing reports that consideration of this resolution, all bridges, 678 high-hazard dams, and 50 come out almost every day. The ac- time yielded is for the purpose of de- percent of its nearly 200,000 miles of tions are undermining our economy. It bate only. public roads are in poor condition. is undermining the confidence in our infrastructure, and it is undermining GENERAL LEAVE I urge my colleagues to work to- Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- gether in a bipartisan way to address our confidence of the United States around the world. mous consent that all Members have 5 the infrastructure crisis in our coun- legislative days to revise and extend try. f their remarks. f COMMUNICATION FROM THE The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there objection to the request of the gen- HONORING BEN AND DAN CLERK OF THE HOUSE tleman from Colorado? MATHESON The SPEAKER pro tempore laid be- There was no objection. (Mr. BARTON asked and was given fore the House the following commu- Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today permission to address the House for 1 nication from the Clerk of the House of in support of the rule and the under- minute and to revise and extend his re- Representatives: lying legislation. marks.) OFFICE OF THE CLERK, As a former Federal and State pros- Mr. BARTON. Mr. Speaker, I rise to HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, ecutor, I often hear how Americans bring to the House’s attention two fine Washington, DC, May 17, 2017. value and respect our law enforcement Texans who are sitting up in the House Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, The Speaker, House of Representatives, officers, firefighters, and first respond- gallery, Ben and Dan Matheson. Washington, DC. ers. We talk about their heroism, their Ben has been on my Air Force advi- DEAR MR. SPEAKER: Pursuant to the per- selflessness, their willingness to pro- sory committee down in Texas for the mission granted in Clause 2(h) of Rule II of tect and serve no matter the cost. entire 32 years that I have been in Con- the Rules of the U.S. House of Representa- These fearless individuals truly are gress. He and the other two members of tives, the Clerk received the following mes- the fabric that holds our communities that nominating committee have rec- sage from the Secretary of the Senate on together. However, in recent years, a ommended to me over 100 young men May 17, 2017, at 9:20 a.m.: violent and disturbing trend has devel- and women whom we have nominated That the Senate passed S. 419. That the Senate passed S. 583. oped. Law enforcement officers, fire- to the Air Force Academy and who are That the Senate passed S. 867. fighters, and first responders are in- now serving, defending our Nation. That the Senate agreed to S.J. Res. 22. creasingly being targeted for violence His son is Dan Matheson, one of my Appointments: and cruelty based solely on the uni- best friends, a proud graduate of the Alyce Spotted Bear and Walter Soboleff form they wear. University of Texas Law School, Commission on Native Children. According to the National Law En- former head of the Texas State Fed of- With best wishes, I am, forcement Officers Memorial Fund, fice, and a successful practicing attor- Sincerely, there were 64 police shooting deaths in KAREN L. HAAS. ney in Austin, Texas. 2016. That number is 56 percent higher I am very proud to have their friend- f than the previous year. The National ship, and I am glad to bring to the at- PROVIDING FOR CONSIDERATION Association of Police Organizations tention of the House these two fine OF H.R. 115, THIN BLUE LINE ACT also notes that ambush-style killings Americans. of law enforcement officers increased The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, by direction by 167 percent in 2016. Chair reminds Members not to refer to of the Committee on Rules, I call up Allowing this appalling trend to con- persons in the gallery. House Resolution 323 and ask for its tinue unchecked is not only unaccept- immediate consideration. f able, it is indefensible. Congress must The Clerk read the resolution, as fol- take concrete steps to address this NATIONAL INFRASTRUCTURE lows: deadly problem. WEEK H. RES. 323 Current Federal law provides 16 ag- (Mr. CA´ RDENAS asked and was Resolved, That upon adoption of this reso- gravating factors that a jury must con- given permission to address the House lution it shall be in order to consider in the sider when deciding whether a death for 1 minute and to revise and extend House the bill (H.R. 115) to amend title 18, sentence is warranted. These factors his remarks.) United States Code, to provide additional ag- include whether the defendant acted in ´ gravating factors for the imposition of the Mr. CARDENAS. Mr. Speaker, this is death penalty based on the status of the vic- an especially heinous, cruel, or de- National Infrastructure Week; yet, at tim. All points of order against consider- praved manner; whether the defendant the same time, our current President ation of the bill are waived. In lieu of the engaged in substantial planning and promised that, as soon as he took of- amendment in the nature of a substitute rec- premeditation; whether the victim was

VerDate Sep 11 2014 01:43 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.020 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4238 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 particularly vulnerable; whether the Most importantly, our admiration for need for a seventeenth new aggravating victim was a high public official, which police officers is not a partisan issue. factor to keep members of the law en- includes high-ranking public persons, We universally agree that those offi- forcement community safe when we from the President to a foreign head of cers who diligently work to protect our could be considering measures that state, to a judge or a Federal law en- communities warrant our praise as we would actually keep them and their forcement officer. However, State and honor them on this National Police communities they protect far safer. local police officers, firefighters, pros- Week. Let’s be clear. This legislation does nothing to keep law enforcement offi- ecutors, and first responders are ex- b 1245 cluded from these protections. cers and first responders safe. By its In response, my friend, Mr. They are our friends, our neighbors, own purported purpose, this bill ad- our family, and they are even our col- BUCHANAN, introduced H.R. 115, the dresses the tragic scenario in which the Thin Blue Line Act. This legislation leagues. I am honored to serve in this officer has already been killed. We need amends Federal law to include mur- institution with a number of persons to be working together to create legis- dering, attempting to murder, or tar- who, in their other activities, were ei- lation that has a real impact on keep- ther police officers or police chiefs that geting of State and local law enforce- ing our communities and police safer, served in that capacity in law enforcement officers, firefighters, prosecutors, as opposed to slapping a catchy name ment. and first responders as an aggravating on an unnecessary bill and pretend we We have a new Member here from my are doing something. factor a jury must consider when deter- State, my good friend, Representative mining whether a death sentence is If my Republican colleagues were se- VAL DEMINGS, a career law enforce- justified. Furthermore, these protec- rious about advancing protections for ment officer herself—27 years she law enforcement during National Po- tions extend to all public safety offi- served—serving as Orlando’s first fe- cers who are murdered or targeted lice Week, we would be discussing pro- male chief of police. I have just a foot- viding them with the tools, the re- while engaging in their official duties, note to add to that. Val’s husband is because of the performance of their du- sources, and the training to engage in the sheriff of Orange County. beneficial community policing initia- ties, or because of their status as a It is because of this admiration and public official or employee. tives. Our law enforcement officers and bipartisan support that, in some re- the communities they police deserve This bill sends a clear message: spects, I was dismayed to see that, as Those who target our police officers, more than messaging. They deserve we celebrate National Police Week, my real action. firefighters, or first responders with vi- Republican colleagues decided now was olence will be met with an equally I ask one more question. Ask police the time to bring this, in my view, un- officers what their attitude is about as- harsh punishment. necessary messaging bill to the floor sault weapons. I think you would find We offer our thoughts and prayers to simply to score political points. the families of our fallen officers, but that, if we passed an assault weapons Mr. Speaker, H.R. 115 would add the measure, we would be pleasing police we must do more to protect these brave murder, attempted murder, or tar- individuals. We can’t stand idly by as officers a great deal more than mes- geting of a law enforcement official, saging to them our concern for their the individuals who protect our homes first responder, or firefighter as an ag- safety. and communities are targeted because gravating factor when determining if a Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of of the uniform they wear. We must act death sentence is warranted for a de- my time. to ensure those individuals who would fendant convicted of murder in Federal Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, we are here commit an act of violence against our court. because we are making sure that local public safety officers know they will The problem, Mr. Speaker, is this bill police officers, sheriff’s deputies, pros- face the gravest of sentences if they go is unnecessary. It is, in short, really ecutors, first responders, and fire- through with their heinous plot. good messaging, but bad policy. Under fighters have the same protections that We must send the message that Con- current law, there is already an ex- those in the Federal system have. gress stands with those fearless indi- haustive list of 16 statutory aggra- Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 minute to the viduals who dedicate their lives to pro- vating factors for homicide for a jury gentleman from Indiana (Mr. BUCSHON). tecting our communities, no matter or court to consider. Mr. BUCSHON. Mr. Speaker, law en- the cost. We can’t continue allowing Having been involved in the justice forcement officers across this country them to suffer the price of our inac- system for a protracted time in my cago to work every day to serve and pro- tion. I support this effort and thank reer, I am trying to think of a time tect our communities. These brave men Chairman GOODLATTE and the Com- that a police officer was killed and a and women risk everything to keep our mittee on the Judiciary for bringing person was tried and convicted; and I communities and our families safe and this bill to the floor. ask my colleagues to answer that ques- secure, and they do it selflessly. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of tion, that anybody that was convicted I recently attended a ceremony in my time. for killing a police officer didn’t get Putnam County, Indiana, honoring the Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield the death penalty. I know in my State, service and sacrifice of the Indiana myself such time as I may consume, in every instance that that occurred— State Police officers who have given and I thank my friend, the gentleman and they were too numerous, and I re- their lives in the line of duty. Yester- from Colorado, for yielding me the cus- gret that they occurred at all—all of day I was at the White House with Vice tomary 30 minutes for debate. those people got the death penalty. President PENCE to recognize the dedi- Mr. Speaker, I rise today to debate We also remember that Federal pros- cation of the Indiana Fraternal Order the rule for consideration of H.R. 115, ecutors can and do seek the death pen- of Police and to remember the service the Thin Blue Line Act. alty in the killing of law enforcement of the late sheriff’s deputy of Howard Mr. Speaker, law enforcement and or first responders, as our friends from County, Carl Koontz, who was killed in first responders play an important role Massachusetts are well aware after a the line of duty. in the safety and security of our com- death sentence was handed down in the Events like these are somber remind- munities. I know about that because of case involving the Boston Marathon ers of what these heroes who stand on the reason that, when I was a lawyer, I bomber. And that was in Massachu- the thin blue line, and their families, had the privilege of representing a fire- setts, a nondeath penalty State. sacrifice on our behalf. We should all fighters association and a police offi- Mr. Speaker, on this front, the sys- be grateful. cers association. tem is working. Federal prosecutors al- Mr. Speaker, this legislation ensures I have represented police officers in ready have the tools to seek the death that officers who fall in the line of court, and I have been in situations penalty in cases where a first responder duty, and their families, receive the where I have interfaced with them as a or law enforcement official was mur- justice they deserve. I urge all of my lawyer in other circumstances. They dered. What’s more, they are using colleagues to support this legislation are an invaluable resource represented these tools. that confirms the United States Con- by the hard work of dedicated men and Given this duplicity, it is a shame gress stands behind our law enforce- women across our Nation. that we are here today debating the ment.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:03 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.023 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4239 Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield SWALWELL), a member of the Intel- It is not disputed, Russia attacked myself such time as I may consume, ligence Committee of the House, to dis- our democracy. It was ordered by and then I will yield to a speaker to cuss our proposal. Vladimir Putin. They used a multi- speak for the previous question. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Before faceted campaign of social media Mr. Speaker, it may sound like we recognizing the gentleman from Cali- trolls, the dissemination of fake news, are getting ready to change the sub- fornia, Members are reminded to re- the hacking of Democratic emails, and ject; and, to a relative degree, we are. frain from engaging in personalities to- the breaking into State voter registra- We are in very interesting and trou- ward the President. tion systems. They had a preferred can- bling times in this Nation, and we have PARLIAMENTARY INQUIRY didate in mind in Donald Trump. And some concerns that need to be ad- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I have they didn’t do it because they were dressed. One of the things that is al- a parliamentary inquiry. bored. They didn’t do it because they lowed to the minority is an oppor- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- were testing software. They did it be- tunity to present a previous question. tleman will state his parliamentary in- cause they wanted something in re- In this particular instance, we are quiry. turn. They saw a candidate who ad- deeply concerned by last night’s revela- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I have mired their President, they wanted tions that, earlier this year, President heard that often. Will the Speaker di- sanctions rolled back, and they wanted Trump may have attempted to ob- rect me to what I said that was any- to reduce the role of NATO. struct justice when he asked then-FBI thing more than what is a fact here. But the most disturbing and the Director James Comey to end the Bu- Can the Chair tell me what I said that most bone-chilling finding that the in- reau’s investigation of former National was dealing with the personality of the telligence community made was that Security Advisor Flynn’s ties to Rus- President. Russia intends to do it again. And by sia. This news came only days after the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- the looks of things, they will be more President acknowledged that he later tleman may have, perhaps not in successful next time because, since this fired Director Comey over the Bureau’s words, but perhaps gave some indica- past attack, we have done nothing to investigation into the links between tion of illegal activities by the Presi- improve the structural integrity of our the Trump campaign and Russia, and dent. elections. We have done nothing to only a day after we learned the Presi- Mr. SWALWELL of California. Mr. have a frank conversation with the dent shared highly classified intel- Speaker, I thank the gentleman from American people about how we all need ligence with Russian officials last Florida for yielding. to be more aware about what a foreign week. I urge my colleagues to defeat the adversary’s intent is when they hack I served for 8 years on the Intel- previous question and allow an amend- emails and then disseminate fake news. This is a time for Republicans and ligence Committee in this Congress, ment to come forward so that we can Democrats to unite. Democrats may and the kind of information that the debate having an independent commis- have been the victim of this most re- President shared with the Russians— sion on Russia’s interference in our cent attack. If history has its way, an- even as an Intelligence member, I saw past election. other adversary perhaps could attack secret, I saw top secret, I saw high se- The events over the past few weeks us and Republicans may be the victim. cret, but I did not see code word infor- have demonstrated that there is a high mation, the highest that is only shared cost—a cost that is too high to bear b 1300 with a few people in the congressional with regard to the White House and its But the constant should always be body—that is what was allowed to be ties with Russia. that both parties say we will never tol- transmitted. What is the cost exactly? erate foreign interference. The first It is time that the Republican-con- What is the cost of alleged abuses step to doing that is to defeat this pre- trolled Congress does its job and acts and the President’s firing of Acting At- vious question, allow an amendment to to defend our democracy. torney General Sally Yates and Direc- take place so we can debate having an Mr. Speaker, if we defeat the pre- tor James Comey? independent commission, a commission vious question, I am going to offer an What is the cost of the question that would be bipartisan appointed, amendment to the rule to bring up a swirling around the President’s ties to have a wide mandate to follow the evi- bipartisan bill, H.R. 356, which would Russia? dence, explore all the facts, and then create a nonpartisan commission to in- Well, the cost, clearly, with the leak- report to the American people rec- vestigate Russian interference in our ing that occurred in the Oval Office, is ommendations so that this never hap- 2016 election. This marks the seventh now our national security. pens again. We have a discharge peti- time we tried to bring this bill to the The cost is our democracy has been tion right now to also do that. There House floor. On the previous six occa- left in ruins. It is a mess right now are a number of names on it. sions, the Republican majority regret- here in Washington. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The tably refused the House to even debate The cost is that this House is unable time of the gentleman has expired. this important legislation. to bring forward legislation to do any- Mr. HASTINGS. I yield the gen- As more and more facts have come to thing to help people put food on the tleman an additional 1 minute. light, I hope my colleagues will finally table, to seek to put a roof over their Mr. SWALWELL of California. I saw put country ahead of party and get se- home, and to provide opportunity to how our country responded after the rious about this investigation. My their children. last serious attack that occurred on goodness, the allegation here is that It is a high cost that we are paying September 11. Outside, on the Capitol people impacted our fundamental right now for all these questions. It is steps, Republicans and Democrats premise of our existence: our elections. too much for us to bear. joined hands. They sang ‘‘God Bless We need to create this commission The best thing we can do is to char- America.’’ But more importantly were with legislation rather than just ter an independent commission to take the reforms that they undertook over tweeting about the need for facts. this outside of Congress so that they the next few years to understand the Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous con- can follow the facts and the evidence vulnerability, to put policies in place sent to insert the text of the amend- and report back to the American peo- to make sure we were never vulnerable ment in the RECORD, along with extra- ple just exactly how we were so vulner- again, and report to the American peo- neous material, immediately prior to able this last election. ple what they had done. the vote on the previous question. What was our response? We have an opportunity again to The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Were any U.S. persons involved? unite. Our constituents are counting objection to the request of the gen- And, most importantly, what are we on us to show that unity, to wear the tleman from Florida? going to do? same uniform, and make sure that this There was no objection. What reforms can we make? democracy is still one we protect. Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield What awareness should we all have so Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 5 minutes to the distinguished gen- that we never find ourselves in a mess minute to the gentleman from Cali- tleman from California, (Mr. like this again? fornia (Mr. KNIGHT) to get this debate

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:03 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00013 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.024 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4240 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 back on track and to protect local law to them and their families for the sac- enforcement officers, and because it is enforcement officials. rifices that they make. morally right to help protect officers Mr. KNIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I come to I commend my colleague on intro- who risk their lives to protect ours. you, not just as a Representative from ducing this legislation and for the Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I con- my district today but someone who House considering it today. I urge my tinue to reserve the balance of my served for 18 years as a Los Angeles po- colleagues to support this legislation time. lice officer on the streets, someone who in honor of our law enforcement offi- Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 has been in uniform, at attention, at cers. minute to the gentleman from Florida several police officer and deputy funer- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I con- (Mr. BILIRAKIS). als as tears were rolling down my face, tinue to reserve the balance of my Mr. BILIRAKIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise and looking side to side and seeing the time. today in solidarity with our law en- same of my brothers and sisters in law Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 forcement officers and in support of the enforcement. minutes to the gentleman from Florida rule and passage of the Thin Blue Line I am sure that everyone who speaks (Mr. YOHO). Act. This bill makes sure that anyone today will have a story, a horrible Mr. YOHO. Mr. Speaker, I am proud who targets and attacks a State or story that affected their community. to rise in support of H.R. 115, the Thin local law enforcement officer is held On October 5 of last year, one such Blue Line Act, which will act as a de- accountable. story happened in our community. Ser- terrent against criminals who seek to The men and women who serve in our geant Steve Owen was basically exe- harm first responders. Increasing the local police forces put their lives on cuted. He was shot from a far distance, Federal penalties that can be imposed the line to keep us safe. They are our and then the killer came up and put against those who would kill or at- everyday heroes, Mr. Speaker. four more shots into him at close range tempt to kill policemen, firemen, or In 2014, Tarpon Springs Police Officer to make sure that he was dead. first responders is a just response to Charles Kondek was shot and killed by These are the types of things that we such heinous crimes. a fugitive while on duty. Officer are seeing in our communities across This week is National Police Week, Kondek represented Tarpon Springs. this country at an alarmingly high and I am reminded of the words etched He worked there for 17 years and did a rate over the last few years. on the National Law Enforcement Me- wonderful job keeping us safe. I think that the Thin Blue Line Act morial in Washington, D.C., which These ambush-style killings of law is one more of those types of issues states: ‘‘The wicked flee when no man enforcement officers have increased that we can do to protect our first re- pursueth, but the righteous are bold as across the country by 167 percent. This sponders, our police officers, our fire- a lion.’’ This is from the Book of Prov- is unacceptable. fighters, to give these people justice, to erbs. The Thin Blue Line Act brings us one give their families justice, so I urge It takes a special kind of person to step closer to justice for these horrific you to support the Thin Blue Line Act. willingly run toward danger and to crimes, so let’s pass this bill. Of course, Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, would shield the innocent from the wicked. we have to pass the rule first so that the Chair be so kind as to advise my That is what our law enforcement and we can pass this good bill. good friend and I what amount of time first responders do every day. Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I re- remains? I am very grateful for the men and serve the balance of my time. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- women who serve and protect our com- Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 tleman from Florida has 141⁄2 minutes munities; and I was honored to be minute to the gentleman from Florida remaining. The gentleman from Colo- present for Police Week in a small (Mr. DUNN). rado has 241⁄2 minutes remaining. town in our district, Green Cove Mr. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I would Springs, in Clay County, Florida, in support of the Thin Blue Line Act, advise my friend that I anticipate one where they had the Police Memorial; which will make murder or attempted more speaker, but at this time I re- and on that was a verse from John murder of a law enforcement officer, or serve the balance of my time. 15:13: ‘‘Greater love has no one than first responders, an aggravating factor Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 this: to lay down one’s life for one’s in death penalty determinations. minute to the gentleman from Ten- friends.’’ The officers of the thin blue line put nessee (Mr. ROE), chairman of the Com- I hope that God watches over our their lives at risk every day and are mittee on Veterans’ Affairs. first responders and keeps them safe to willing to make the ultimate sacrifice Mr. ROE of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, I bring them home to their families. so that we can rest easy at night. Our rise today in support of the rule to con- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I re- law enforcement and first responders sider H.R. 115, the Thin Blue Line Act, serve the balance of my time. run into danger so that others can run introduced by my friend and colleague Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 1 away from it. They do this despite the from Florida, Mr. VERN BUCHANAN. minute to the gentleman from Ala- rise in violence against them. Mr. Speaker, this week, National Po- bama (Mr. BROOKS). We have witnessed a 167 percent in- lice Week, we take time to honor our Mr. BROOKS of Alabama. Mr. Speak- crease in ambush-style killings of po- Nation’s law enforcement officers for er, as a former Tuscaloosa County lice officers in 2016 alone. This is trag- the work they do and the sacrifices prosecutor and Madison County dis- ic, and it is unacceptable. they make to keep us safe on a daily trict attorney, I fully understand the The Thin Blue Line Act will hold cop basis. It is unconscionable that law en- importance of the rule of law that, in killers accountable and seek justice for forcement officers are being targeted turn, protects us from anarchy, crime, those murdered in the line of duty, and and are making the ultimate sacrifice destruction, and death. Without the it will show our resolve as citizens to in the line of duty; and this bill aims to rule of law, criminal brute force pre- protect the officers who have sworn to make the killing or attempted killing vails. protect us. of a law enforcement officer an aggra- Unfortunately, leftist political forces During this week, National Police vating factor for the imposition of the who care more about inciting racial di- Week, we can also show our gratitude death penalty. vision for political gain and less about to law enforcement and their families Mr. Speaker, I served for 6 years as a crime and terror victims regularly sec- by passing the Thin Blue Line Act. It is city commissioner and two of those as ond-guess those who wear the uniform an honor to represent them in Con- the mayor of my small town of John- to protect and serve. gress. son City, Tennessee, and had the privi- For emphasis, antipolice, leftist po- Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I re- lege of working with first responders, litical rhetoric has helped incite am- serve the balance of my time. firemen, and police officers every day. bush-style attacks against police in Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 It was a privilege to do it. I put on a places like Dallas, Baton Rouge, Des minutes to the gentleman from Texas scrub suit to go to work. They put on Moines, and Palm Springs. (Mr. BABIN). a Kevlar vest and put their lives in I support the Thin Blue Line Act be- Mr. BABIN. Mr. Speaker, at this time danger. I cannot say thank you enough cause I appreciate the sacrifice of law in our Nation, protecting our local law

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:03 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.027 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4241 enforcement and first responders could uncle was shot while attempting to dis- We had Montrell Jackson, another not be more important. Tens of thou- arm a robber in a Manhattan bar, a Baton Rouge police officer, who lost sands of law enforcement and first re- fatal injury he succumbed to days his life, and his wife, Trenisha, is now sponders around the country put their later. a widow. lives on the line every single day to Mr. Speaker, for too long, law en- We had Bruce Simmons who got shot, serve their communities. Sadly, statis- forcement across this country has been and while he did survive, he is still tics show that simply doing their jobs forgotten or, worse yet, ostracized. At struggling with recovery, and he and has become very dangerous for these the same time, their vital mission con- his wife, Pam, continue to go through individuals. tinues, and it continues to grow more that from the July 17 shooting from In 2016, police officer shootings in- dangerous. Just last year, ambush- last year. creased by 56 percent nationally, with style killings of law enforcement offi- Nick Tullier was also involved in ambush-style killings of law enforce- cers increased by 167 percent, according that shooting, and I have been wearing ment officers increasing by a stag- to the National Association of Police my ‘‘Pray for Nick’’ band now for gering 167 percent. These dramatic Organizations. Despite all this, each months. Nick Tullier continues to be in numbers demonstrate that more pro- day, tens of thousands of brave women the hospital even today. tection is needed for our law enforce- and men continue to put their lives on This bill allows for the protection of ment officers. the line to serve and protect our com- our officers. It clearly distinguishes In my home State of Texas, 17 law munities. that these are the peacekeepers, these enforcement officers gave their lives This week, we recognize Police Week are the people who are putting their just last year, including five who were 2017, but the dedication and sacrifice of lives on the line to make sure that we killed in the horrible assault that tar- our blue line deserves to be respected have order, no longer chaos. Mr. Speaker, this is an important geted police officers in Dallas, Texas. every day. As a former law enforce- piece of legislation, and I urge every- On Monday, in recognition of National ment officer, I am proud to stand here one to support this unanimously. Police Week, we honored fallen law en- today in support of those brave women and men. Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I yield forcement officers at a memorial cere- myself such time as I may consume. mony in Deer Park, Texas, in my dis- Today, the House has a chance to take decisive action to protect our law I am sure that my friends across the trict. aisle have their hearts in the right We need the Thin Blue Line Act, enforcement officers by passing the legislation before us. The Thin Blue place, but we need to be clear that which would make the killing of a these messaging bills do little to noth- local or State law enforcement officer Line Act sends a clear message to those who intentionally target our po- ing to protect our police officers. or first responder an aggravating fac- If we truly wanted to help our brave lice officers. Vicious attacks on law en- tor in Federal death penalty deter- officers and first responders, we would forcement officers will be met with jus- minations. It is important that our pass sensible gun reform legislation. local and State police officers and first tice. I urge my colleagues to stand up for We would take guns out of the hands of responders have the same safeguards the mentally ill and domestic abusers; that Federal law enforcement officers law enforcement today, support this rule, and pass H.R. 115, the Thin Blue not make it easier for them to acquire already have. such weapons as my friends across the The local law enforcement and first Line Act. The bipartisan support it deserves must be delivered today. aisle have done on so many occasions. responders that I know in my district If we truly wanted to protect our of- not only serve their communities b 1315 ficers and first responders, we would through their jobs but also give back Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I re- work diligently to provide them with to their communities in positions such serve the balance of my time. the best mental health and wellness as Little League coaches, City Council Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 11⁄2 programs money can buy rather than members, Sunday-school teachers, and minutes to the gentleman from Lou- leaving them to mend unseen wounds in countless other positions of service. isiana (Mr. GRAVES). on their own. These individuals put their commu- Mr. GRAVES of Louisiana. Mr. If my friends across the aisle truly nities first, Mr. Speaker, and they de- Speaker, I want to thank the gen- wanted to help this country’s law en- serve to be protected by much stronger tleman from Colorado (Mr. BUCK) for forcement officers, they would cham- laws. his efforts and leadership on this issue. pion funding for community policing I rise in strong support of the Thin Mr. Speaker, I rise today because I initiatives because I think we all know Blue Line Act and encourage my col- think it is really important that we that a community that trusts its police leagues in the House to support its pas- talk about law enforcement; we talk officers, and police officers who trust sage today. about what their role is. These are the their community, will live a far safer Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I re- peacekeepers. The men and women and richer life. serve the balance of my time. right here on Capitol Hill, the Capitol I might add, my colleague DEBBIE Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 Police, they are the ones who prevent WASSERMAN SCHULTZ and I, along with minutes to the gentleman from Penn- chaos, that allow for order to stand law enforcement officials in south sylvania (Mr. FITZPATRICK), a former here in the Capitol complex. Florida, have been about the business special agent with the Federal Bureau In the State of Louisiana, in my of trying to make that a reality, and of Investigation. hometown of Baton Rouge, back on funding for those programs is particu- Mr. FITZPATRICK. Mr. Speaker, I July 17, we had an extraordinary event. larly important to all of our commu- would like to thank my colleague, Mr. We had five of our law enforcement of- nities. BUCK, for his leadership on this impor- ficers who were responding to a shooter Mr. Speaker, we all applaud and tant issue, and I rise in strong support. with a long gun; clearly, someone that thank our law enforcement officers and Mr. Speaker, my great-uncle, Phil was dressed and armed in a way to not first responders for the brave and in- Fitzpatrick, was a proud patrolman be helpful to the community. While the valuable work that they do, day in and with the NYPD. He was also a poet, rest of us were running away from that day out, in our communities. often referring to police officers as sol- shooter, these five men were running But we cannot bury our heads in the diers of peace. This week, as we recog- toward him. sand any longer and believe that, by nize Police Week 2017, I find myself As a result of that, Deputy Brad simply passing messaging bills, we are thinking of him and a line from one of Garafola lost his life, and his wife, actually making our communities his poems, where he wrote: ‘‘When he Tonja, is right now a widow. safer for our officers or the citizens for kisses his wife and children goodbye, Matthew Gerald lost his life, and whom they swear an oath to protect. there’s the chance he will see them no Dechia, his wife, is now a widow. We have heard outstanding com- more.’’ Dechia found out 2 weeks after his ments from our friends and our col- Unfortunately, Mr. Speaker, these death that she was pregnant, and he leagues who came to speak today. All words were true for my family. This has never seen that baby. That baby of them spoke of heartfelt cir- month marks 70 years since my great- doesn’t have a father today. cumstances regarding fallen officers.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:03 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.028 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4242 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 And toward that end, there is abso- olent Association, 241,000 sworn law enforce- to rage over a perceived injustice or desires lutely nothing that I disagree with ment officers, and more than 100,000 citizens to strike a blow against our civil govern- that has been said. who share a common dedication to fair and ment. effective crime control and law enforcement. On behalf of more than 330,000 members of I just simply ask that we take into The Thin Blue Line Act increases penalties the Fraternal Order of Police, I want to consideration how we can best help and on those who harm or target for harm public thank you for introducing this legislation keep safe law enforcement officers. safety officers by making the murder or at- and amendment. If I can be of any further Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance tempted murder of a local police officer, fire- help, please do not hesitate to contact me or of my time. fighter, or first responder an aggravating Executive Director Jim Pasco in my Wash- Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- factor in death penalty determinations. ington office. self such time as I may consume. I in- This bill is critical, as law enforcement of- Sincerely, ficer assaults, injuries, and deaths have in- CHUCK CANTERBURY, clude in the RECORD four letters which creased sharply in recent years. In 2016 National President. I will briefly describe: alone, ambush-style killings of law enforce- The first is from the Major County ment officers increased by 167 percent. Es- SERGEANTS BENEVOLENT ASSOCIA- Sheriffs of America, supporting the tablishing stricter penalties for those who TION, POLICE DEPARTMENT, CITY Thin Blue Line Act; the second is from harm or target for harm law enforcement of- OF NEW YORK, the National Association of Police Or- ficers will deter crime. Any persons contem- New York, NY, January 17, 2017. ganizations, Inc., again, supporting the plating harming an office must know that Hon. VERN BUCHANAN, Thin Blue Line Act; the third is from they will face serious punishments. NAPO House of Representatives, Washington, DC. the National Fraternal Order of Police, strongly believes that increased penalties make important differences in the attitudes DEAR REPRESENTATIVE BUCHANAN: I am supporting H.R. 115, the Thin Blue Line of criminals toward public safety officers, writing on behalf of the more than 13,000 Act; and then finally, from the Ser- and ensure protection for the community. members of the Sergeants Benevolent Asso- geants Benevolent Association in We thank you for your continued support ciation of the New York City Police Depart- strong support of H.R. 115, the Thin of the law enforcement community and we ment to advise you of our strong support for Blue Line Act. look forward to working with you to pass H.R. 115, the ‘‘Thin Blue Line Act.’’ this important legislation. If we can provide For too long, members of the NYPD, along MAJOR COUNTY SHERIFFS any assistance, please feel free to contact with law enforcement officers across this na- OF AMERICA, tion, have been targets. There has been a April 25, 2017. me. Sincerely, proliferation of groups and pundits impugn- Hon. VERN BUCHANAN, ing the motives and mission of law enforce- House of Representatives, WILLIAM J. JOHNSON, Esq., CAE, Executive Director. ment. They do so with no regard for the im- Washington, DC. pact it has on our ability to protect life, DEAR CONGRESSMAN BUCHANAN: I write to NATIONAL FRATERNAL property, and the freedoms we all hold dear. you today on a matter of significant impor- These constant attacks and the excessive, tance to the Major County Sheriffs of Amer- ORDER OF POLICE, Washington, DC, January 9, 2017. exaggerated rhetoric of anti-police elements ica (MCSA) and all of America’s law enforce- have led some to declare an open season on ment professionals. MCSA is an association Hon. VERNON G. BUCHANAN, House of Representatives, police officers, and to welcome with cheers of elected Sheriffs representing the Nation’s and praise the cowardly criminals who tar- largest counties with populations of 500,000 Washington, DC. DEAR REPRESENTATIVE BUCHANAN: I am get law enforcement officers with acts of vio- or more. Collectively, we represent more writing on behalf of the members of the Fra- lence. We saw this first hand in New York than 100 million Americans. ternal Order of Police to advise you of our City in December 2014, when Officers Wenjian As Vice President in charge of Government strong support for H.R. 115, the ‘‘Thin Blue Liu and Rafael Ramos were ambushed and Affairs for the MCSA, I am pleased to ex- Line Act.’’ senselessly murdered as they sat in their press our association’s support of your legis- The ‘‘Thin Blue Line Act’’ increases the radio car on a Brooklyn street corner. Unfor- lation, the Thin Blue Line Act. This legisla- penalty for an individual who targets, kills, tunately, they are not alone. According to tion would make the murder of law enforce- or attempts to kill a person who is a law en- the National Law Enforcement Officers Me- ment officers, firefighters and other first re- forcement officer, firefighter or any other morial Fund, in 2016 there were 21 police offi- sponders an aggravating factor in capital public safety officer, while he or she was en- cers killed in ambush-style attacks. punishment determinations. gaged in the performance of his or her offi- Shockingly, 20 of these officers were killed In 2016, one hundred forty-four officers died cial duties, because of the performance of his in eight multiple-shooting death incidents— in the line of duty and to date, line of duty or her official duties, or because of his or her such as those that claimed the lives of 8 offi- deaths are up 10 percent. The targeting of status as a public official or employee. cers in Baton Rouge, LA and Dallas, TX—the law enforcement officers is unconscionable Law enforcement officers have always highest total of any year since 1932. and those who commit such heinous acts faced threats while on duty but within the It is for these reasons and many others should be prosecuted to the fullest extent of past few years, officers have become a target that the legislation you have introduced is the law. Law enforcement officers and other for violence solely because of the uniform so important. The ‘‘Thin Blue Line Act’’ first responders have the right to go home to they wear. As you know, the FOP has called would make the murder or attempted mur- their families at the end of their shifts. upon Congress to expand the current Federal der of police officers, prosecutors, fire- The Thin Blue Line Act is a step in the hate crimes law to include law enforcement fighters, and other first responders at any right direction and your work on this legis- officers for this very reason. level of government an aggravating factor in lation is sincerely appreciated. We value Of the 63 deaths by gunfire suffered by law federal death penalty determinations. The your support and look forward to working enforcement in 2016, 21 of them—that’s 33%— bill applies to things like the interstate with you in the future. were ambush killings. These were deliberate homicide of an officer, and is applicable MICHAEL J. BOUCHARD, and sadly successful efforts by individuals whether the officer is murdered on duty, be- Sheriff, Oakland County (MI), who set out to kill a police officer: cause of the performance of their duty, or be- Vice President—Government Affairs. The ambush attack against the Dallas Po- cause of their status as a public official. lice Department; the deadliest day for law While we know that law enforcement officers NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF enforcement since 9/11 that saw 5 officers will continue to be targets, regardless of POLICE ORGANIZATIONS, INC., killed from gunfire; their uniform and whether they are on duty Alexandria, VA, January 5, 2017. The ambush attack against members of the or off, active or retired, this legislation Hon. VERN BUCHANAN, Baton Rouge Police Department that saw 3 sends the message that any action to target House of Representatives, officers killed from gunfire; law enforcement officers for murder or vio- Washington, DC. The ambush attack against 2 Iowa police lence will be met with the harshest of pen- DEAR CONGRESSMAN BUCHANAN: On behalf officers, Scott Martin and Anthony Beminio alties. And that is a message that is long of the National Association of Police Organi- who were killed as they sat in their respec- overdue. zations (NAPO), I am writing to you to ex- tive patrol cars; On behalf of the membership of our organi- press our strong support for the Thin Blue Officer Thomas Cottrell of the Danville Po- zation, thank you for your leadership on this Line Act. lice Department (OH) was killed by ambush. important issue. We look forward to working NAPO is a coalition of police units and as- All of these officers died because of the with you to see it swiftly enacted into law. sociations from across the United States uniforms they were wearing. Those in our Please do not hesitate to contact me, or our that serves to advance the interests of Amer- profession have always been in harm’s way. Washington Representatives Andrew Siff and ica’s law enforcement through legislative It is our job to protect others but it should Chris Granberg if we can be of any further and legal advocacy, political action, and edu- not be ‘‘part of the job’’ to be a target of assistance. cation. Founded in 1978, NAPO now rep- someone who is looking simply to kill a cop. Sincerely, resents more than 1,000 police units and asso- We do not accept that our uniforms alone ED MULLINS, ciations, including the Florida Police Benev- make us targets because someone was driven President.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.032 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4243 Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, the rule be- exists an aggravated factor that achieves the Mr. Speaker, there is no argument that we fore the House today is simple. It pro- goal of punishing by death, a defendant who have evolved and matured significantly since vides for the consideration of the Thin kills a law enforcement officer, thereby, mak- we first implemented the death penalty in the Blue Line Act. We often talk of how ing. 1600s and thus, we must evaluate cautiously, resolute our law enforcement officers, This bill does nothing to protect our law en- laws that seek to further advance this flawed, firefighters, and first responders are in forcement; instead, it raises constitutional astronomically costly and unjust practice. the face of immense danger. These he- questions as to its validity because ‘‘targeting Capital punishment does not work; it is dis- roic individuals charge into burning law enforcement’’ is substantially vague lan- criminatory and is used disproportionately buildings, face down violence, and guage that will subject many innocent lives to against the poor, minorities and members of stand ready to jump into the fray at a death, based purely on their desire to exercise racial, ethnic and religious communities. moment’s notice. their First Amendment rights about the well- Since the U.S. Supreme Court reinstated Simply putting on a uniform should documented racial disparity in treatment the death penalty in 1976, 82% of all execu- not be one of those dangers. It is our throughout our communities. tions have occurred in the South (37% in duty to ensure that law enforcement We must ensure that we do not create legis- Texas alone), which contributed to the United officers, firefighters, and first respond- lation of broad scope and vagueness that will States status as one of five countries in the ers have every tool at their disposal to have a chilling effect on an insular group. world to account for the most executions in do their job safely and effectively and H.R. 115 is laced with a discriminatory ef- 2012. to ensure they return home to their fect that will trigger strict scrutiny under the FBI data has shown that the death penalty families. 14th Amendment, and open the gateway for is not a deterrent and in fact, 14 states without Countless spouses and children kiss draconian habeas laws. capital punishment in 2008, had homicide their loved ones good-bye as they head This bill will create a slippery slope, further rates at or below the national rate. to work, praying that it will not be adding to recent turbulence caused by Attor- Taking another life does not stop violence. Like mandatory minimums, public opinion their last day. We must never forget ney General Jeff Session’s memo and de- for the death penalty is currently at its lowest this as we work to ensure our police of- stroying whatever trust remains between law with a 42% opposition, evidenced in a 2016 ficers, firefighters, and first responders enforcement and communities. Pew Research report, which found that the have every possible protection. This bill sends troubling messages around U.S. now dropped to number seven worldwide There is no greater deterrent than the world about how we view and measure life in countries accountable for the most execu- the threat of losing one’s life. It is my in America in this 21st century. tions. hope that this legislation makes indi- It is time to get serious about this epidemic Mr. Speaker, over two-thirds of the world’s viduals who would consider taking the and not hide behind vague language because countries have abolished the death penalty ei- life of an officer stop to consider the ‘all’ lives matter, blue, black, brown, white. ther in law or practice, and the U.S. is the only consequences before going through Mr. Speaker, while some may say that any Western country that still uses the death pen- with an attack; that we one day reach adverse effects of the bill before us are de alty. a point where our Nation’s finest can minimis, and thus, will not severely impact the Even family members of murder victims and go to work without worrying about racial disparity found in the use of the death other individuals who have witnessed live exe- being targeted because of the uniform penalty, it is neither the amount of words in cutions of death row inmates, particularly, in on their back; that one day our offi- this bill nor the amount of time used to utter the recent botched and questionable execu- cers’ families have one less reason to them that is significant; rather, it is the dis- tions, have called for a repeal of this practice worry. criminatory effect that will result in commu- and ask instead for alternative sentencing. But until that day, we must continue nities disproportionately impacted by the death In fact the death penalty solves nothing, and standing resolutely against this evil. I penalty. may even perpetuate the suffering of the par- ask my colleagues in the House to sup- Let us take for example, the case of Buck ents, children, or siblings left behind. port our law enforcement community, v. Davis, 580 U.S. lll (2017) where the We do not need to expand the use of the firefighters, and first responders. Pro- death penalty verdict was based merely on death penalty where public opinion is at its tect them from the heinous acts of vio- ‘whether defendant is likely to commit acts of lowest, but instead, implement sound and lence. Give their families some assur- violence in the future’ and a psychologist practical legislation that will save lives of our ance that we have their backs. Vote opined that being black did increase the prob- officers and the people they serve, where pub- ‘‘yes’’ on the resolution, vote ‘‘yes’’ on ability. The trial court reasoned that ‘‘introduc- lic opinion for this measure is extremely high. the underlying bill, vote ‘‘yes’’ to give tion of any mention of race was de minimis,’’ The material previously referred to our law enforcement officers the pro- in other words, insignificant. by Mr. HASTINGS is as follows: tections they so desperately need. As Chief Justice John Roberts stated for the AN AMENDMENT TO H. RES. 323 OFFERED BY Mr. Speaker, I thank Chairman Court in reversing the lower court; ‘‘Some tox- MR. HASTINGS GOODLATTE and Chairman SESSIONS for ins can be deadly in small doses.’’ At the end of the resolution, add the fol- bringing this bill before us. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 115 is extremely deadly lowing new sections: Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise to because it will undoubtedly contribute to the SEC. 2. Immediately upon adoption of this speak about the rule for H.R. 115, ‘‘Thin Blue continuation of well-documented and perva- resolution the Speaker shall, pursuant to sive racial disparities in the imposition of the clause 2(b) of rule XVIII, declare the House Line Act of 2017.’’ resolved into the Committee of the Whole I would like to acknowledge and commend death penalty. House on the state of the Union for consider- our law enforcement officers in the room today Since 1976 only 20 white prisoners have ation of the bill (H.R. 356) to establish the and across this country who have worked tire- been executed for the murder of an African National Commission on Foreign Inter- lessly on our behalf. American victim, while an alarming 286 Afri- ference in the 2016 Election. The first reading I know personally the level of stress and can American prisoners have been executed of the bill shall be dispensed with. All points challenges posed, because I have many for the death of white victims, and 42% of Afri- of order against consideration of the bill are friends that have and are currently serving my can Americans currently remain on death row. waived. General debate shall be confined to Congressional district in Houston and our Death penalty generally, has been criticized the bill and shall not exceed one hour equally divided and controlled by the chair and country very well and with great distinction. over the years by legal scholars and by Su- ranking minority member of the Committee I support our policies that are necessary so preme Court Justices who have opined in sev- on Foreign Affairs. After general debate the long as we are doing so with fairness, in ac- eral instances, that ‘the death penalty violates bill shall be considered for amendment under cordance with our Constitution, and in a man- the Eighth Amendment, which prohibits cruel the five-minute rule. All points of order ner that is not duplicative of statutory meas- and unusual punishment.’ against provisions in the bill are waived. At ures already in place. Even in 1958, when the Court first explicitly the conclusion of consideration of the bill for Mr. Speaker, H.R. 115 imposes the death spoke about the death penalty as having con- amendment the Committee shall rise and re- penalty for the killing or targeting of law en- stitutional challenges, it said in Trop v. Dulles, port the bill to the House with such amendments as may have been adopted. The pre- forcement officers, firefighters, and first re- ‘‘the Eighth Amendment’s Cruel and Unusual vious question shall be considered as ordered sponders as a 17th aggravated factor for Punishment clause must draw its meaning on the bill and amendments thereto to final homicide. from the ‘evolving standards of decency that passage without intervening motion except H.R. 115 is duplicative and unnecessary be- mark the progress of a maturing society’ rath- one motion to recommit with or without in- cause under 18 U.S.C. 3592(c), there already er than from its original meaning.’’ structions. If the Committee of the Whole

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:03 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.033 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4244 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 rises and reports that it has come to no reso- cations. It is one of the only available tools Scott, Austin Thompson (PA) Webster (FL) lution on the bill, then on the next legisla- for those who oppose the Republican major- Sensenbrenner Thornberry Wenstrup tive day the House shall, immediately after ity’s agenda and allows those with alter- Sessions Tiberi Westerman Shimkus Tipton Williams the third daily order of business under clause native views the opportunity to offer an al- Simpson Trott 1 of rule XIV, resolve into the Committee of ternative plan. Wilson (SC) Smith (MO) Turner Wittman the Whole for further consideration of the Mr. BUCK. Mr. Speaker, I yield back Smith (NE) Upton Womack bill. Smith (NJ) Valadao Woodall the balance of my time, and I move the Smith (TX) Wagner SEC. 3. Clause 1(c) of rule XIX shall not Yoder previous question on the resolution. Smucker Walberg apply to the consideration of H.R. 356. Yoho Stefanik Walden The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Young (AK) Stewart Walker THE VOTE ON THE PREVIOUS QUESTION: WHAT question is on ordering the previous Stivers Walorski Young (IA) IT REALLY MEANS question. Taylor Walters, Mimi Zeldin This vote, the vote on whether to order the The question was taken; and the Tenney Weber (TX) previous question on a special rule, is not Speaker pro tempore announced that NAYS—189 merely a procedural vote. A vote against or- the ayes appeared to have it. dering the previous question is a vote Adams Gabbard Norcross Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, on that Aguilar Gallego against the Republican majority agenda and O’Halleran Barraga´ n Garamendi O’Rourke a vote to allow the Democratic minority to I demand the yeas and nays. The yeas and nays were ordered. Bass Gonzalez (TX) Pallone offer an alternative plan. It is a vote about Beatty Gottheimer Panetta what the House should be debating. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Bera Green, Al Pascrell Mr. Clarence Cannon’s Precedents of the ant to clause 9 of rule XX, the Chair Beyer Green, Gene Payne House of Representatives (VI, 308–311), de- will reduce to 5 minutes the minimum Bishop (GA) Grijalva Perlmutter scribes the vote on the previous question on Blumenauer Hanabusa Peters time for any electronic vote on the Blunt Rochester Hastings the rule as ‘‘a motion to direct or control the Peterson question of the adoption of the resolu- Bonamici Heck consideration of the subject before the House Pingree tion. Boyle, Brendan Higgins (NY) Pocan being made by the Member in charge.’’ To The vote was taken by electronic de- F. Himes Polis defeat the previous question is to give the Brady (PA) Hoyer Price (NC) opposition a chance to decide the subject be- vice, and there were—yeas 230, nays Brown (MD) Huffman Quigley fore the House. Cannon cites the Speaker’s 189, not voting 11, as follows: Brownley (CA) Jackson Lee Raskin ruling of January 13, 1920, to the effect that Bustos Jayapal Rice (NY) [Roll No. 259] Butterfield Jeffries ‘‘the refusal of the House to sustain the de- Richmond YEAS—230 Capuano Johnson (GA) Rosen mand for the previous question passes the Carbajal Johnson, E. B. Abraham Farenthold Roybal-Allard control of the resolution to the opposition’’ Loudermilk Ca´ rdenas Jones Aderholt Faso Ruiz in order to offer an amendment. On March Love Carson (IN) Kaptur Allen Ferguson Ruppersberger Lucas Cartwright Keating 15, 1909, a member of the majority party of- Amash Fitzpatrick Rush Luetkemeyer Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) fered a rule resolution. The House defeated Amodei Fleischmann Ryan (OH) MacArthur Castro (TX) Kennedy the previous question and a member of the Arrington Flores Sa´ nchez Marchant Cicilline Khanna Babin Fortenberry Sarbanes opposition rose to a parliamentary inquiry, Marino Clark (MA) Kihuen Bacon Foxx Schakowsky asking who was entitled to recognition. Marshall Clarke (NY) Kildee Banks (IN) Franks (AZ) Schiff Speaker Joseph G. Cannon (R-Illinois) said: Massie Clay Kilmer Barletta Frelinghuysen Schneider ‘‘The previous question having been refused, Mast Cleaver Kind Barr Gaetz Schrader McCarthy Clyburn Krishnamoorthi the gentleman from New York, Mr. Fitz- Barton Gallagher Scott (VA) McCaul Cohen Kuster (NH) gerald, who had asked the gentleman to Bergman Gibbs Scott, David McClintock Connolly Langevin yield to him for an amendment, is entitled to Biggs Gohmert McHenry Conyers Larsen (WA) Serrano Bilirakis Goodlatte the first recognition.’’ McKinley Cooper Larson (CT) Sewell (AL) Bishop (MI) Gosar The Republican majority may say ‘‘the McMorris Correa Lawrence Shea-Porter Bishop (UT) Gowdy vote on the previous question is simply a Rodgers Costa Lawson (FL) Sherman Black Granger vote on whether to proceed to an immediate McSally Courtney Lee Sinema Blackburn Graves (GA) Meadows Crist Levin Sires vote on adopting the resolution . . . [and] Blum Graves (LA) Meehan Crowley Lewis (GA) Slaughter has no substantive legislative or policy im- Bost Graves (MO) Messer Cuellar Lipinski Smith (WA) plications whatsoever.’’ But that is not what Brady (TX) Griffith Mitchell Cummings Loebsack Soto Brat Grothman they have always said. Listen to the Repub- Moolenaar Davis (CA) Lofgren Speier Bridenstine Guthrie lican Leadership Manual on the Legislative Mooney (WV) Davis, Danny Lowenthal Suozzi Brooks (AL) Harper Process in the United States House of Rep- Mullin DeFazio Lowey Swalwell (CA) Brooks (IN) Harris resentatives, (6th edition, page 135). Here’s Murphy (PA) DeGette Lujan Grisham, Takano Buchanan Hartzler Noem Delaney M. Thompson (CA) how the Republicans describe the previous Buck Hensarling Nunes DeLauro Luja´ n, Ben Ray Thompson (MS) question vote in their own manual: ‘‘Al- Bucshon Herrera Beutler Olson DelBene Lynch Titus though it is generally not possible to amend Budd Hice, Jody B. Palazzo Demings Maloney, Tonko Burgess Higgins (LA) the rule because the majority Member con- Palmer DeSaulnier Carolyn B. Torres Byrne Hill trolling the time will not yield for the pur- Paulsen Deutch Maloney, Sean Tsongas Calvert Holding pose of offering an amendment, the same re- Pearce Dingell Matsui Vargas Carter (GA) Hollingsworth sult may be achieved by voting down the pre- Perry Doggett McCollum Veasey Carter (TX) Hudson Pittenger Doyle, Michael McEachin Vela vious question on the rule . . . When the mo- Chabot Huizenga Poe (TX) F. McGovern Vela´ zquez tion for the previous question is defeated, Cheney Hultgren Poliquin Ellison McNerney Visclosky control of the time passes to the Member Coffman Hunter Posey Engel Meeks Walz Collins (GA) Hurd who led the opposition to ordering the pre- Ratcliffe Eshoo Meng Wasserman Collins (NY) Issa vious question. That Member, because he Reed Espaillat Moore Schultz Comer Jenkins (KS) then controls the time, may offer an amend- Reichert Esty (CT) Moulton Waters, Maxine Comstock Jenkins (WV) ment to the rule, or yield for the purpose of Renacci Evans Murphy (FL) Watson Coleman Conaway Johnson (LA) Rice (SC) Foster Nadler Welch amendment.’’ Cook Johnson (OH) Roby Frankel (FL) Neal Wilson (FL) In Deschler’s Procedure in the U.S. House Costello (PA) Jordan Roe (TN) Fudge Nolan Yarmuth of Representatives, the subchapter titled Cramer Joyce (OH) Rogers (AL) ‘‘Amending Special Rules’’ states: ‘‘a refusal Crawford Katko Rogers (KY) NOT VOTING—11 Culberson Kelly (MS) Rohrabacher to order the previous question on such a rule Chaffetz Gutie´rrez Newhouse Curbelo (FL) Kelly (PA) Rokita [a special rule reported from the Committee Chu, Judy Johnson, Sam Davidson King (IA) Rooney, Francis Pelosi on Rules] opens the resolution to amend- Cole Lieu, Ted Davis, Rodney King (NY) Rooney, Thomas Shuster Garrett Napolitano ment and further debate.’’ (Chapter 21, sec- Denham Kinzinger J. tion 21.2) Section 21.3 continues: ‘‘Upon re- Dent Knight Ros-Lehtinen jection of the motion for the previous ques- DeSantis Kustoff (TN) Roskam b 1349 tion on a resolution reported from the Com- DesJarlais Labrador Ross Miss RICE of New York, Mr. mittee on Rules, control shifts to the Mem- Diaz-Balart LaHood Rothfus Donovan LaMalfa Rouzer MCEACHIN, and Ms. BONAMICI ber leading the opposition to the previous changed their vote from ‘‘yea’’ to question, who may offer a proper amendment Duffy Lamborn Royce (CA) Duncan (SC) Lance Russell or motion and who controls the time for de- ‘‘nay.’’ Duncan (TN) Latta Rutherford So the previous question was ordered. bate thereon.’’ Dunn Lewis (MN) Sanford Clearly, the vote on the previous question Emmer LoBiondo Scalise The result of the vote was announced on a rule does have substantive policy impli- Estes (KS) Long Schweikert as above recorded.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:03 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.006 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4245 The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Woodall Yoho Young (IA) recorded vote or the yeas and nays are question is on the resolution. Yoder Young (AK) Zeldin ordered, or on which the vote incurs The question was taken; and the NOES—184 objection under clause 6 of rule XX. Speaker pro tempore announced that Adams Fudge Nolan The House will resume proceedings the ayes appeared to have it. Aguilar Gabbard Norcross on postponed questions at a later time. Barraga´ n Gallego O’Rourke RECORDED VOTE Bass Garamendi Pallone f Beatty Gonzalez (TX) Panetta BANKRUPTCY JUDGESHIP ACT OF Mr. HASTINGS. Mr. Speaker, I de- Bera Gottheimer Pascrell mand a recorded vote. Beyer Green, Al Payne 2017 A recorded vote was ordered. Bishop (GA) Green, Gene Perlmutter Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I Blumenauer Grijalva Peters The SPEAKER pro tempore. This is a Blunt Rochester Hanabusa Peterson move to suspend the rules and pass the 5-minute vote. Bonamici Hastings Pingree bill (H.R. 2266) to amend title 28 of the The vote was taken by electronic de- Boyle, Brendan Heck Pocan United States Code to authorize the ap- F. Higgins (NY) Polis vice, and there were—ayes 233, noes 184, Brady (PA) Himes Price (NC) pointment of additional bankruptcy not voting 13, as follows: Brown (MD) Hoyer Quigley judges; and for other purposes, as Brownley (CA) Huffman Raskin [Roll No. 260] amended. Bustos Jackson Lee Rice (NY) The Clerk read the title of the bill. AYES—233 Butterfield Jayapal Richmond Capuano Jeffries Rosen The text of the bill is as follows: Abraham Goodlatte Nunes Carbajal Johnson (GA) Roybal-Allard H.R. 2266 Aderholt Gosar O’Halleran Ca´ rdenas Johnson, E. B. Ruiz Allen Gowdy Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Olson Carson (IN) Kaptur Ruppersberger Amash Granger Palazzo Cartwright Keating Rush resentatives of the United States of America in Amodei Graves (GA) Palmer Castor (FL) Kelly (IL) Ryan (OH) Congress assembled, Arrington Graves (LA) Paulsen Castro (TX) Kennedy Sa´ nchez SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Babin Graves (MO) Pearce Cicilline Khanna Sarbanes Bacon Griffith This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Bankruptcy Perry Clark (MA) Kihuen Schakowsky Banks (IN) Grothman Judgeship Act of 2017’’. Pittenger Clarke (NY) Kildee Schiff Barletta Guthrie Poe (TX) Clay Kilmer Schneider SEC. 2. CONVERSION OF THE TEMPORARY OFFICE Barr Harper Poliquin Cleaver Kind Schrader OF BANKRUPTCY JUDGE TO THE Barton Hartzler Posey Clyburn Krishnamoorthi Scott (VA) PERMANENT OFFICE OF BANK- Bergman Hensarling Ratcliffe Cohen Kuster (NH) Scott, David RUPTCY JUDGE IN CERTAIN JUDI- Biggs Herrera Beutler Reed Connolly Langevin Serrano CIAL DISTRICTS. Bilirakis Hice, Jody B. Reichert Conyers Larsen (WA) Sewell (AL) (a) DISTRICT OF DELAWARE.— Bishop (MI) Higgins (LA) Renacci Cooper Larson (CT) Shea-Porter (1) The temporary office of 4 bankruptcy Bishop (UT) Hill Rice (SC) Correa Lawrence Sherman Black Holding judges authorized for the district of Delaware by Roby Costa Lawson (FL) Sinema Blackburn Hollingsworth section 1223(b)(1)(C) of Public Law 109–8 (119 Roe (TN) Courtney Lee Sires Blum Hudson Stat. 197; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and extended by Rogers (AL) Crist Levin Slaughter Bost Huizenga Crowley Lewis (GA) Smith (WA) section 2(a)(1)(C) of Public Law 112–121 (126 Brady (TX) Hultgren Rogers (KY) Cuellar Lipinski Soto Stat. 346; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), is converted here- Brat Hunter Rohrabacher Cummings Loebsack Speier by to the permanent office of bankruptcy judge Bridenstine Hurd Rokita Davis (CA) Lofgren Suozzi and represented in the amendment made by sec- Brooks (AL) Issa Rooney, Francis Davis, Danny Lowenthal Swalwell (CA) Brooks (IN) Jenkins (KS) Rooney, Thomas tion 3(1) of this Act, and may be filled. DeFazio Lowey Thompson (CA) Buchanan Jenkins (WV) J. (2) The temporary office of bankruptcy judge DeGette Lujan Grisham, Thompson (MS) Buck Johnson (LA) Ros-Lehtinen authorized for the district of Delaware by sec- Delaney M. Titus Bucshon Johnson (OH) Roskam DeLauro Luja´ n, Ben Ray Tonko tion 3(a)(3) of Public Law 102–361 (106 Stat. 966; Budd Jones Ross DelBene Lynch Torres 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and extended by section Burgess Jordan Rothfus Demings Maloney, Tsongas 1223(c)(1) of Public Law 109–8 (119 Stat. 198; 28 Byrne Joyce (OH) Rouzer DeSaulnier Carolyn B. Vargas U.S.C. 152 note) and section 2(b)(1) of Public Calvert Katko Royce (CA) Deutch Maloney, Sean Veasey Carter (GA) Kelly (MS) Russell Law 112–121 (126 Stat. 347; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), Dingell Matsui Vela Carter (TX) Kelly (PA) Rutherford is converted hereby to the permanent office of Doggett McCollum Vela´ zquez Chabot King (IA) Sanford bankruptcy judge and represented in the Doyle, Michael McEachin Visclosky Cheney King (NY) Scalise F. McGovern Walz amendment made by section 3(1) of this Act, and Coffman Kinzinger Schweikert Engel McNerney Wasserman may be filled. Collins (GA) Knight Scott, Austin Eshoo Meeks Schultz (b) SOUTHERN DISTRICT OF FLORIDA.—The Collins (NY) Kustoff (TN) Sensenbrenner Espaillat Meng Waters, Maxine temporary office of 2 bankruptcy judges author- Comer Labrador Sessions Esty (CT) Moore Watson Coleman Comstock LaHood ized for the southern district of Florida by sec- Shimkus Evans Moulton Welch Conaway LaMalfa tion 1223(b)(1)(D) of Public Law 109–8 (119 Stat. Shuster Foster Nadler Wilson (FL) Cook Lamborn 197; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and extended by section Simpson Frankel (FL) Neal Yarmuth Costello (PA) Lance Smith (MO) 2(a)(1)(D) of Public Law 112–121 (126 Stat. 346; Cramer Latta Smith (NE) NOT VOTING—13 28 U.S.C. 152 note), is converted hereby to the Crawford Lewis (MN) Smith (NJ) Chaffetz Gutie´rrez Newhouse permanent office of bankruptcy judge and rep- Culberson LoBiondo Smith (TX) Chu, Judy Harris resented in the amendment made by section 3(3) Curbelo (FL) Long Pelosi Smucker Cole Johnson, Sam Davidson Loudermilk Takano of this Act, and may be filled. Stefanik Ellison Lieu, Ted Davis, Rodney Love (c) DISTRICT OF MARYLAND.—The temporary Stewart Franks (AZ) Napolitano office of 1 bankruptcy judge first appointed as Denham Lucas Stivers Dent Luetkemeyer Taylor b 1357 authorized for the district of Maryland by sec- DeSantis MacArthur Tenney tion 1223(b)(1)(F) of Public Law 109–8 (119 Stat. DesJarlais Marchant Thompson (PA) So the resolution was agreed to. 197; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and extended by section Diaz-Balart Marino Thornberry The result of the vote was announced 2(a)(1)(F) of Public Law 112–121 (126 Stat. 346; Donovan Marshall Tiberi Duffy Massie as above recorded. 28 U.S.C. 152 note), is converted hereby to the Duncan (SC) Mast Tipton A motion to reconsider was laid on permanent office of bankruptcy judge and rep- Trott Duncan (TN) McCarthy the table. resented in the amendment made by section 3(4) Dunn McCaul Turner of this Act, and may be filled. Upton Stated against: Emmer McClintock (d) EASTERN DISTRICT OF MICHIGAN.—The Valadao Estes (KS) McHenry Mr. ELLISON. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- temporary office of bankruptcy judge authorized Farenthold McKinley Wagner ably detained. Had I been present, I would Walberg for the eastern district of Michigan by section Faso McMorris have voted ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 260. Ferguson Rodgers Walden 1223(b)(1)(G) of Public Law 109–8 (119 Stat. 197; Fitzpatrick McSally Walker f 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and extended by section Fleischmann Meadows Walorski 2(a)(1)(G) of Public Law 112–121 (126 Stat. 346; Flores Meehan Walters, Mimi ANNOUNCEMENT BY THE SPEAKER 28 U.S.C. 152 note), is converted hereby to the Fortenberry Messer Weber (TX) PRO TEMPORE permanent office of bankruptcy judge and rep- Foxx Mitchell Webster (FL) The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. resented in the amendment made by section 3(5) Frelinghuysen Moolenaar Wenstrup of this Act, and may be filled. Gaetz Mooney (WV) Westerman OGERS R of Kentucky). Pursuant to (e) DISTRICT OF NEVADA.—The temporary of- Gallagher Mullin Williams clause 8 of rule XX, the Chair will post- Garrett Murphy (FL) Wilson (SC) fice of bankruptcy judge authorized for the dis- Gibbs Murphy (PA) Wittman pone further proceedings today on mo- trict of Nevada by section 1223(b)(1)(T) of Public Gohmert Noem Womack tions to suspend the rules on which a Law 109–8 (119 Stat. 197; 28 U.S.C. 152 note),

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:03 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 6333 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.037 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4246 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 and extended by section 2(a)(1)(Q) of Public disbursements or $250,000, whichever is less, un- porary judgeships to permanent status Law 112–121 (126 Stat. 346; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), less the balance in the United States Trustee and creates 4 new permanent bank- is converted hereby to the permanent office of System Fund as of September 30 immediately ruptcy judgeships in districts with bankruptcy judge and represented in the preceding such fiscal year exceeds some of the highest caseloads in the amendment made by section 3(6) of this Act, and $200,000,000.’’. may be filled. (b) DEPOSITS OF CERTAIN FEES FOR FISCAL country. In fact, since the enactment (f) EASTERN DISTRICT OF NORTH CAROLINA.— YEARS 2018 THROUGH 2022.—Notwithstanding of the Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention The temporary office of bankruptcy judge au- section 589a(b) of title 28 of the United States and Consumer Protection Act of 2005, thorized for the eastern district of North Caro- Code, for each of the fiscal years 2018 through when a majority of the temporary lina by section 1223(b)(1)(M) of Public Law 109– 2022— judgeships were created, these districts 8 (119 Stat. 197; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and ex- (1) 97.5 percent of the fees collected under sec- have seen weighted filings increase by tended by section 2(a)(1)(J) of Public Law 112– tion 1930(a)(6) of such title shall be deposited as more than 55 percent. 121 (126 Stat. 346; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), is con- offsetting collections to the appropriation This bill is based on a comprehensive verted hereby to the permanent office of bank- ‘‘United States Trustee System Fund’’, to remain available until expended, and study of judicial resource needs con- ruptcy judge and represented in the amendment ducted by the Judicial Conference and made by section 3(7) of this Act, and may be (2) 2.5 percent of the fees collected under sec- filled. tion 1930(a)(6) of such title shall be deposited in is supported by the Administrative Of- (g) DISTRICT OF PUERTO RICO.— the general fund of the Treasury. fice of the U.S. Courts. The Conference (1) The temporary office of bankruptcy judge (c) EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICATION AMEND- has assured us that its request comes authorized for the district of Puerto Rico by sec- MENTS.— only after it has taken steps to maxi- (1) EFFECTIVE DATE.—Except as provided in tion 1223(b)(1)(P) of Public Law 109–8 (119 Stat. paragraph (2), this section shall take effect on mize all other alternatives to reduce 197; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and extended by section July 1, 2017, or on the date of the enactment of judicial workloads. Moreover, the Con- 2(a)(1)(M) of Public Law 112–121 (126 Stat. 346; this Act, whichever is later. ference has demonstrated that, while a 28 U.S.C. 152 note), is converted hereby to the (2) APPLICATION OF AMENDMENTS.—The district may have a permanent judge- permanent office of bankruptcy judge and rep- amendments made by this section shall apply to resented in the amendment made by section 3(8) ship, it will not be filled unless com- quarterly fees payable under section 1930(a)(6) pletely necessary. of this Act, and may be filled. of title 28 of the United States Code, as amended (2) The temporary office of bankruptcy judge Importantly, this bill will not by this section, for disbursements made in any authorized for the district of Puerto Rico by sec- present any new costs for the tax- calendar quarter that begins on or after the ef- tion 3(a)(7) of Public Law 102–361 (106 Stat. 966; payers. The Bankruptcy Judgeship Act fective date of the amendments made by this sec- 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and extended by section tion. includes an increase in the quarterly 1223(c)(1) of Public Law 109–8 (119 Stat. 198; 28 U.S. Trustee fees for large chapter 11 The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- U.S.C. 152 note) and section 2(b)(1) of Public debtors, excluding small businesses. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Law 112–121 (126 Stat. 347; 28 U.S.C. 152 note), This fee increase is directly tied to the Virginia (Mr. GOODLATTE) and the gen- is converted hereby to the permanent office of balance of the United States Trustee bankruptcy judge and is represented in the tleman from Michigan (Mr. CONYERS) amendment made by section 3(8) of this Act, and System Fund and will only be applied each will control 20 minutes. when the balance of the fund falls may be filled. The Chair recognizes the gentleman below a $200 million threshold, thereby (h) EASTERN DISTRICT OF VIRGINIA.—The tem- from Virginia. porary office of bankruptcy judge authorized ensuring that the Office of the U.S. GENERAL LEAVE for the eastern district of Virginia by section Trustee is properly funded. 1223(b)(1)(R) of Public Law 109–8 (119 Stat. 197; Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I ask These temporary bankruptcy judge- 28 U.S.C. 152 note), and extended by section unanimous consent that all Members ships were first set to lapse in 2010. 2(a)(1)(P) of Public Law 112–121 (126 Stat. 346; may have 5 legislative days in which to Most have been extended for over 12 28 U.S.C. 152 note), is converted hereby to the revise and extend their remarks and in- years, and some even longer. Despite permanent office of bankruptcy judge and is clude extraneous material on H.R. 2266, this committee’s efforts to address the represented in the amendment made by section currently under consideration. 3(9) of this Act, and may be filled. issue, to date there have been only lim- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ited, short-term fixes. Additional per- SEC. 3. PERMANENT OFFICE OF BANKRUPTCY objection to the request of the gen- JUDGE AUTHORIZED. manent bankruptcy judgeships have tleman from Virginia? To reflect the conversion of the temporary of- not been authorized since 1992. fice of bankruptcy judge to the permanent office There was no objection. The time has come for Congress to of bankruptcy judge made by the operation of Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I address bankruptcy judgeship needs section 2, and to authorize the appointment of yield myself such time as I may con- more permanently. We need a bank- additional bankruptcy judges, section 152(a)(2) sume. ruptcy system that has a sufficient of title 28 of the United States Code is amend- We are here today to address an im- number of judges to be able to manage ed— posing threat to one of the the caseloads in a just, economical, and (1) in the item relating to the district of Dela- foundational aspects of our economy, ware by striking ‘‘1’’ and inserting ‘‘8’’, timely manner. The efficiency of this the national bankruptcy system. A system is too important to our econ- (2) in the item relating to the middle district of well-functioning bankruptcy system Florida by striking ‘‘8’’ and inserting ‘‘9’’, omy to risk. This bill helps ensure that (3) in the item relating to the southern district provides relief to consumers, allows we have such a system. of Florida by striking ‘‘5’’ and inserting ‘‘7’’, businesses to reorganize, preserves I would like to thank Ranking Mem- (4) in the item relating to the district of Mary- jobs, maximizes the value of assets, ber CONYERS for his efforts on this land by striking ‘‘4’’ and inserting ‘‘5’’, and ensures the proper allocation of re- issue. I would also like to thank Regu- (5) in the item relating to the eastern district sources. Our bankruptcy judiciary is latory Reform, Commercial and Anti- of Michigan by striking ‘‘4’’ and inserting ‘‘6’’, the heartbeat that keeps this system trust Law Subcommittee Chairman (6) in the item relating to the district of Ne- moving. If that judiciary is strained MARINO and Ranking Member CICILLINE vada by striking ‘‘3’’ and inserting ‘‘4’’, and undermanned, that system will (7) in the item relating to the eastern district for joining me as original cosponsors of of North Carolina by striking ‘‘2’’ and inserting grind to a halt, eliminating the essen- the bill. I urge my colleagues to vote in ‘‘3’’, tial benefits it provides and sending re- favor of this important legislation. (8) in the item relating to the district of Puerto percussions throughout the economy. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of Rico by striking ‘‘2’’ and inserting ‘‘4’’, and There are presently 29 temporary my time. (9) in the item relating to the eastern district bankruptcy judgeships in the bank- Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I yield of Virginia by striking ‘‘5’’ and inserting ‘‘6’’. ruptcy system with a lapse date of May myself such time as I may consume. SEC. 4. BANKRUPTCY FEES. 25. These temporary judgeships com- Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support (a) AMENDMENTS TO TITLE 28 OF THE UNITED prise more than 8 percent of the cur- of H.R. 2266, the Bankruptcy Judgeship STATES CODE.—Section 1930(a)(6) of title 28 of rent bankruptcy judgeships nation- Act of 2017, which would make 14 tem- the United States Code is amended— wide. After May 25, 2017, these judge- porary bankruptcy judgeships perma- (1) by striking ‘‘(6) In’’ and inserting ‘‘(6)(A) ships are at risk of being permanently nent and authorize four additional Except as provided in subparagraph (B), in’’, and lost, resulting in larger caseloads bankruptcy judgeships. (2) by adding at the end the following: shared by fewer judges and causing fur- I introduced this bipartisan legisla- ‘‘(B) In any fiscal year, the quarterly fee pay- ther strain on our judiciary system. tion together with the support of Judi- able for a quarter in which disbursements equal The Bankruptcy Judgeship Act of ciary Committee Chairman GOOD- or exceed $1,000,000 shall be 1 percent of such 2017 converts 14 of the existing tem- LATTE, along with Regulatory Reform,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:03 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.010 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4247 Commercial and Antitrust Law Sub- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of and my colleagues on the House Judici- committee Chairman MARINO and my time. ary Committee for their work on this Ranking Member CICILLINE. H.R. 2266 Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I am important legislation and for bringing warrants the support from my col- prepared to close, and I reserve the bal- this bill to the floor today. leagues on both sides of the aisle for ance of my time. An efficient bankruptcy system is several reasons. Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I yield important to the smooth functioning of To begin with, this measure reflects such time as she may consume to the our economy. The preservation and ad- the recommendations of the Judicial gentlewoman from Delaware (Ms. dition of these positions will add need- Conference of the United States with BLUNT ROCHESTER). ed certainty to our legal system. respect to the judicial resource needs Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. Mr. As the Judicial Conference of the of our Nation’s bankruptcy courts. Speaker, I include in the RECORD a let- United States highlighted in their re- These recommendations are them- ter from the Judicial Conference. port to Congress, these resources will selves based on a comprehensive survey JUDICIAL CONFERENCE OF THE benefit individuals and corporations, of all judicial circuits. UNITED STATES, and are necessary to keep this system Washington, DC, April 3, 2017. This analysis consists of two compo- working. I am proud of the work that Hon. PAUL D. RYAN, nents. The first is premised on a case- Speaker, House of Representatives, the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Dis- weight formula devised by the Federal Washington, DC. trict of Delaware does to protect jobs, Judicial Center that is intended to pro- DEAR MR. SPEAKER: On behalf of the Judi- creditors, and economic engines in our vide a more accurate and useful meas- cial Conference of the United States, I write communities across the country. ure of judicial workload than a mere to transmit the Conference’s bankruptcy This legislation is a perfect example count of case filings. judgeship recommendations and cor- of Congress hearing the needs of inde- responding draft legislation for the 115th The second component considers a Congress. The Conference recommends to pendent experts in the judiciary and broad array of other factors, including Congress that it authorize four additional acting in a bipartisan, collaborative the nature of a court’s caseload, filing permanent bankruptcy judgeships and con- manner to address a looming problem. trends, demographic considerations, vert 14 existing temporary bankruptcy I look forward to continuing to work geographic issues, and economic as- judgeships to permanent status, as set forth with my colleagues on other pressing pects, among other items. in the enclosures. problems for our constituents in such Taken together, the resulting anal- The preservation of current on-board resources in these courts is of great concern to collaborative ways. I urge all of my ysis provides a reliable basis upon the Conference. All 14 temporary bankruptcy colleagues to support the Bankruptcy which Congress may assess the neces- judgeships included in the Conference’s rec- Judgeship Act of 2017. sity of authorizing additional judge- ommendation have a lapse date of May 25, b 1415 ships and extending temporary judge- 2017. These bankruptcy courts would face a ships. serious and, in many cases, debilitating Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I yield In addition, H.R. 2266 addresses an workload crisis if these temporary judge- myself the balance of my time. immediate need. All of the temporary ships were to expire. The U.S. Bankruptcy Mr. Speaker, in closing, I am pleased judgeships addressed in H.R. 2266 will Court for the District of Delaware, for exam- to note that H.R. 2266 is supported by ple, would be crippled as five of their six au- the American Bar Association, the lapse as of May 25, which is just a week thorized judgeships are temporary, all with away. the risk of expiring in 2017. Federal Bar Association, the American Once a temporary judgeship lapses, Although bankruptcy filings nationwide College of Bankruptcy, and the Na- any ensuing vacancy may not be filled, have been declining in recent years, the dis- tional Conference of Bankruptcy which presents a serious concern. As tricts included in these recommendations Judges. the Judicial Conference warns, these generally have experienced an increase in fil- I want to also express appreciation to bankruptcy courts would ‘‘face a seri- ings resulting in stress on existing judicial our Judiciary chairman, Mr. GOOD- resources. Indeed, since the enactment of the LATTE, to Chairman MARINO and Rank- ous and, in many cases, debilitating Bankruptcy Abuse Prevention and Consumer workload crisis if their temporary Protection Act in 2005, Pub. L. No. 109–8—the ing Member CICILLINE, as well as their judgeships were to expire.’’ last time additional judgeship resources staffs, for their cooperative efforts in This is particularly true with respect were authorized for most of the courts in- working with me on this bipartisan to the Eastern District of Michigan, cluded in the Conference’s recommenda- legislation. which has a weighted caseload well in tion—these districts have seen weighted fil- Mr. Speaker, given the time-sensitive excess of the minimum necessary to ings increase by more than 55 percent. nature of the temporary judgeships ad- Section 152(b)(2) of title 28, United States trigger additional judicial resources. Code, requires the Judicial Conference to dressed by H.R. 2266 and the immediate Although Congress has previously ex- recommend to Congress the authorization of need for additional bankruptcy judge- tended temporary bankruptcy judge- additional bankruptcy judgeships. Following ships to be authorized, it is my hope ships from time to time, some have a formal survey of all judicial circuits, the that our colleagues in the Senate will also lapsed as a result of Congress’ fail- Conference determines where additional re- expeditiously consider this important ure to timely act. So to avoid future sources are needed based upon the circuit legislation. I urge all of the Members lapses in judicial resources, my legisla- councils’ requests and established criteria here to support this measure. including each court’s workload and case fil- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance tion converts 14 of these temporary ing statistics, geographic needs, and perti- judgeships to permanent status. nent additional factors. As part of this sur- of my time. Finally, I am pleased to report that vey, the Judicial Conference also considers Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I H.R. 2266 pays for all of these judge- requests from the circuits to convert or ex- yield myself the balance of my time. ships without having to require con- tend existing temporary bankruptcy judge- Mr. Speaker, permanent bankruptcy sumer debtors to bear that expense. ships based upon the district’s needs for sta- judgeships have not been authorized The cost of this legislation is offset by ble judicial resources. since 1992. Over the past 25 years, we The Judicial Conference respectfully re- increasing the quarterly fees that the quests that you give your full consideration have limited our protection of the largest 10 percent of chapter 11 debtors to the Judiciary’s resource needs as identi- bankruptcy system to short-term tem- pay to the United States Trustee Sys- fied in this proposed legislation. Additional porary fixes. A well-functioning bank- tem Fund, a proposal initially made by caseload information concerning these rec- ruptcy system, however, is too impor- the Obama administration as part of ommendations is available upon request. tant to our economy to risk. Now is the the President’s budget request for 2017. If we may be of further assistance to you time for Congress to address bank- Specifically, the fee increase would in this or any other matter, please do not ruptcy judgeship needs more perma- hesitate to contact me or the Office of Legis- apply only to chapter 11 debtors that lative Affairs, Administrative Office of the nently. have quarterly disbursements in excess U.S. Courts. The Bankruptcy Judgeship Act is a of $1 million and only during the period Sincerely, measured, long-term solution carefully when the fund has less than $200 mil- JAMES C. DUFF, crafted and based on the well-developed lion. Secretary. recommendation of the Administrative For all of these various reasons, I Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. Mr. Office of the Courts. Not only does it support this legislation. Speaker, I want to thank Mr. CONYERS ensure the viability of our bankruptcy

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00021 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.040 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4248 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 system, but it also addresses the fund- and certain related proceedings. A district The text of the bill is as follows: ing concerns of the Office of the United court, however, may withdraw—in whole or in S. 419 States Trustee. part—any case or proceeding referred to a Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- This bill is a bipartisan measure that bankruptcy judge. If designated by the district resentatives of the United States of America in enjoys broad support from outside to exercise such authority, a bankruptcy judge Congress assembled, groups, including the American Bar As- may conduct a jury trial on consent of all the SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. sociation, the Federal Bar Association, parties. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Public Safe- the National Conference of Bankruptcy ty Officers’ Benefits Improvement Act of Currently pending before Congress is H.R. 2017’’. Judges, and the American College of 244, the ‘‘Consolidated Appropriations Act, SEC. 2. REPORTS. Bankruptcy. I urge my colleagues to 2017,’’ which extends for one year the tem- Section 1205 of title I of the Omnibus vote in favor of this important legisla- porary judgeships for the District of Delaware Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 tion. (two judgeships), the Southern District of Flor- (42 U.S.C. 3796c) is amended— Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance ida (two judgeships); the Eastern District of (1) in subsection (a), by inserting ‘‘Rules, of my time. Michigan; the District of Puerto Rico; and the regulations, and procedures issued under this Mr. CICILLINE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in sup- Eastern District of Virginia. part may include regulations based on standards developed by another Federal agency for port of H.R. 2266, the ‘‘Bankruptcy Judgeship In analyzing bankruptcy judgeship needs, Act of 2017,’’ which authorizes the establish- programs related to public safety officer the Judicial Conference employs, as a first death or disability claims.’’ before the last ment of four additional permanent bankruptcy step, a case weight formula devised by the sentence; judgeships and converts 14 temporary bank- Federal Judicial Center that is intended to pro- (2) in subsection (b)— ruptcy judgeships to permanent status. vide a more accurate and useful measure of (A) by inserting ‘‘(1)’’ before ‘‘In making’’; I am pleased to be an original cosponsor of judicial workload than a mere count of filings and this legislation, which is a necessary response does. (B) by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(2) In making a determination under sec- to alleviate the strain on certain bankruptcy Pursuant to Conference policy, ‘‘if a district’s courts that have experienced a significant in- tion 1201, the Bureau shall give substantial annual weighted caseload per authorized weight to the evidence and all findings of crease in bankruptcy filings over the past dec- judgeship is 1,500 weighted filings or more, fact presented by a State, local, or Federal ade or more. the district will receive consideration for an ad- administrative or investigative agency re- Importantly, this legislation adopts the rec- ditional judgeship.’’ garding eligibility for death or disability ommendations of the Judicial Conference of With respect to the Conference’s current re- benefits. the United States, the national policymaking ‘‘(3) If the head of a State, local, or Federal quest for additional bankruptcy judgeships, the administrative or investigative agency, in body of the federal courts, and does not im- weighted case filings have increased by more pose additional fees on ordinary consumer consultation with the principal legal officer than 55 percent for most of these districts of the agency, provides a certification of debtors or small businesses. since the last time additional judgeships were facts regarding eligibility for death or dis- As the Conference notes in support of this authorized in 2005, according to the Con- ability benefits, the Bureau shall adopt the measure, while bankruptcy filings have de- ference. factual findings, if the factual findings are creased nationwide, the bankruptcy courts that In addition, all 14 of the temporary bank- supported by substantial evidence.’’; and would receive permanent or new judgeships (3) by adding at the end the following: ruptcy judgeships that the bill converts to per- under this legislation ‘‘have seen weighted fil- ‘‘(e)(1)(A) Not later than 30 days after the manent status are set to lapse as of May 25, ings increase by more than 55 percent.’’ date of enactment of this subsection, the Bu- 2017. Furthermore, without this legislation, all 14 reau shall make available on the public To offset the cost of this legislation, H.R. website of the Bureau information on all temporary judgeships covered by this bill will 2266 increases the quarterly fee payable that death, disability, and educational assistance lapse later this month on May 25. claims submitted under this part that are Allowing a lapse in these judgeships would chapter 11 debtors pay to the United States Trustee System Fund, but only with respect to pending as of the date on which the informa- have potentially crippling effects on the bank- tion is made available. ruptcy system. debtors that have quarterly disbursements in ‘‘(B) Not less frequently than once per For example, five of the six authorized excess of $1 million dollars during the period week, the Bureau shall make available on judgeships of the U.S. Bankruptcy Court of the when the Fund has less than $200 million. the public website of the Bureau updated in- District of Delaware—the preferred venue for This provision is substantively identical to a formation with respect to all death, dis- legislative proposal made by the prior Admin- ability, and educational assistance claims corporate reorganization under Chapter 11— submitted under this part that are pending are temporary. istration as represented in President Barack Obama’s budget request for 2017. as of the date on which the information is Accordingly, I urge my colleagues to support made available. this important legislation. Taken together, the resulting analysis pro- ‘‘(C) The information made available under I thank Ranking Member CONYERS, the bill’s vides a reliable basis upon which Congress this paragraph shall include— sponsor, for his leadership on this bill, along may assess the necessity of authorizing addi- ‘‘(i) for each pending claim— with Judiciary Committee Chairman GOOD- tional judgeships and extending temporary ‘‘(I) the date on which the claim was sub- LATTE and Subcommittee Chairman MARINO judgeships. mitted to the Bureau; for their support. For all of these reasons, I support this legis- ‘‘(II) the State of residence of the claim- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in lation. ant; The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ‘‘(III) an anonymized, identifying claim strong support of H.R. 2266, the ‘‘Bankruptcy number; and Judgeship Act of 2017.’’ question is on the motion offered by ‘‘(IV) the nature of the claim; and H.R. 2266, the ‘‘Bankruptcy Judgeship Act the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. ‘‘(ii) the total number of pending claims of 2017,’’ would authorize four additional per- GOODLATTE) that the House suspend that were submitted to the Bureau more manent bankruptcy judgeships and convert 14 the rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2266, as than 1 year before the date on which the in- temporary bankruptcy judgeships to perma- amended. formation is made available. nent status based on the most recent rec- The question was taken; and (two- ‘‘(2) Not later than 180 days after the date thirds being in the affirmative) the of enactment of this subsection, the Bureau ommendation of the Judicial Conference of the shall publish on the public website of the Bu- United States. rules were suspended and the bill, as reau a report, and shall update such report H.R. 2266 was introduced on May 1, 2017 amended, was passed. on such website not less than once every 180 by Ranking Member JOHN CONYERS, Jr. (D– A motion to reconsider was laid on days thereafter, containing— MI) together with Chairman BOB GOODLATTE the table. ‘‘(A) the total number of claims for which and Subcommittee on Regulatory Reform, f a final determination has been made during Commercial and Antitrust Law Chair TOM the 180-day period preceding the report; PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS’ BENE- MARINO (R–PA) and Ranking Member DAVID ‘‘(B) the amount of time required to proc- FITS IMPROVEMENT ACT OF 2017 ess each claim for which a final determina- CICILLINE (D–RI) as original cosponsors. This bipartisan legislation is time-sensitive Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I tion has been made during the 180-day period move to suspend the rules and pass the preceding the report; as the temporary judgeships are due to expire ‘‘(C) as of the last day of the 180-day period on May 25, 2017. No hearing has been held bill (S. 419) to require adequate report- preceding the report, the total number of on this legislation. ing on the Public Safety Officers’ Bene- claims submitted to the Bureau on or before A bankruptcy judge may hear and determine fits program, and for other purposes. that date for which a final determination has all cases arising under the Bankruptcy Code The Clerk read the title of the bill. not been made;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.043 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4249 ‘‘(D) as of the last day of the 180-day period ‘‘(A) conduct a study on the compliance of SEC. 5. PRESUMPTION THAT OFFICER ACTED preceding the report, the total number of the Bureau with the obligation to offset PROPERLY. claims submitted to the Bureau on or before award amounts under section 1201(f)(3); and Section 1202 of title I of the Omnibus the date that is 1 year before that date for ‘‘(B) submit to Congress a report on the Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 which a final determination has not been study conducted under subparagraph (A) (42 U.S.C. 3796a) is amended— made; that includes an assessment of whether the (1) by striking ‘‘No benefit’’ and inserting ‘‘(E) for each claim described in subpara- Bureau has provided the information re- the following: graph (D), a detailed description of the basis quired under subparagraph (B)(ix) of para- ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—No benefit’’; and for delay; graph (2) of this subsection in each report re- (2) by adding at the end the following: ‘‘(b) PRESUMPTION.—In determining wheth- ‘‘(F) as of the last day of the 180-day period quired under that paragraph. er a benefit is payable under this part, the preceding the report, the total number of ‘‘(4) In this subsection, the term ‘nature of claims submitted to the Bureau on or before Bureau— the claim’ means whether the claim is a ‘‘(1) shall presume that none of the limita- that date relating to exposure due to the claim for— September 11th, 2001, terrorism attacks for tions described in subsection (a) apply; and ‘‘(A) benefits under this subpart with re- ‘‘(2) shall not determine that a limitation which a final determination has not been spect to the death of a public safety officer; made; described in subsection (a) applies, absent ‘‘(B) benefits under this subpart with re- clear and convincing evidence.’’. ‘‘(G) as of the last day of the 180-day period spect to the disability of a public safety offi- SEC. 6. EFFECTIVE DATE; APPLICABILITY. preceding the report, the total number of cer; or The amendments made by this Act shall— claims submitted to the Bureau on or before ‘‘(C) education assistance under subpart (1) take effect on the date of enactment of the date that is 1 year before that date relat- 2.’’. ing to exposure due to the September 11th, this Act; and 2001, terrorism attacks for which a final de- SEC. 3. AGE LIMITATION FOR CHILDREN. (2) apply to any benefit claim or applica- termination has not been made; Section 1212(c) of title I of the Omnibus tion under part L of title I of the Omnibus ‘‘(H) for each claim described in subpara- Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 graph (G), a detailed description of the basis (42 U.S.C. 3796d–1(c)) is amended— (42 U.S.C. 3796 et seq.) that is— for delay; (1) by striking ‘‘No child’’ and inserting (A) pending before the Bureau of Justice ‘‘(I) the total number of claims submitted the following: Assistance on the date of enactment; or to the Bureau relating to exposure due to the ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Subject to paragraph (2), (B) received by the Bureau on or after the September 11th, 2001, terrorism attacks for no child’’; and date of enactment of this Act. which a final determination was made during (2) by adding at the end the following: The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- the 180-day period preceding the report, and ‘‘(2) DELAYED APPROVALS.— ant to the rule, the gentleman from the average award amount for any such ‘‘(A) EDUCATIONAL ASSISTANCE APPLICA- Virginia (Mr. GOODLATTE) and the gen- claims that were approved; TION.—If a claim for assistance under this ‘‘(J) the result of each claim for which a subpart is approved more than 1 year after tleman from Michigan (Mr. CONYERS) final determination was made during the 180- the date on which the application for such each will control 20 minutes. day period preceding the report, including assistance is filed with the Attorney Gen- The Chair recognizes the gentleman the number of claims rejected and the basis eral, the age limitation under this sub- from Virginia. for any denial of benefits; section shall be extended by the length of GENERAL LEAVE ‘‘(K) the number of final determinations the period— Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I ask which were appealed during the 180-day pe- ‘‘(i) beginning on the day after the date unanimous consent that all Members riod preceding the report, regardless of when that is 1 year after the date on which the ap- may have 5 legislative days within the final determination was first made; plication is filed; and which to revise and extend their re- ‘‘(L) the average number of claims proc- ‘‘(ii) ending on the date on which the appli- essed per reviewer of the Bureau during the cation is approved. marks and include extraneous mate- 180-day period preceding the report; ‘‘(B) CLAIM FOR BENEFITS FOR DEATH OR rials on S. 419, currently under consid- ‘‘(M) for any claim submitted to the Bu- PERMANENT AND TOTAL DISABILITY.—In addi- eration. reau that required the submission of addition to an extension under subparagraph (A), The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there tional information from a public agency, and if any, for an application for assistance objection to the request of the gen- for which the public agency completed pro- under this subpart that relates to a claim for tleman from Virginia? viding all of the required information during benefits under subpart 1 that was approved There was no objection. the 180-day period preceding the report, the more than 1 year after the date on which the Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I average length of the period beginning on claim was filed with the Attorney General, yield myself such time as I may con- the date the public agency was contacted by the age limitation under this subsection sume. the Bureau and ending on the date on which shall be extended by the length of the pe- Mr. Speaker, in 1976 Congress passed the public agency submitted all required in- riod— and the President signed into law the formation to the Bureau; ‘‘(i) beginning on the day after the date ‘‘(N) for any claim submitted to the Bu- that is 1 year after the date on which the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Act. reau for which the Bureau issued a subpoena claim for benefits is submitted; and The act was designed to offer peace of to a public agency during the 180-day period ‘‘(ii) ending on the date on which the claim mind to men and women seeking ca- preceding the report in order to obtain infor- for benefits is approved.’’. reers as public safety officers, namely, mation or documentation necessary to deter- SEC. 4. DUE DILIGENCE IN PAYING BENEFIT that if something happened to them in mine the claim, the name of the public agen- CLAIMS. their dangerous roles, their families cy, the date on which the subpoena was Subpart 1 of part L of title I of the Omni- would have support. issued, and the dates on which the public bus Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of It shows that America places enor- agency was contacted by the Bureau before 1968 (42 U.S.C. 3796 et seq.) is amended by mous value on those in our commu- the issuance of the subpoena; and adding at the end the following: ‘‘(O) information on the compliance of the nities who protect and serve, those Bureau with the obligation to offset award ‘‘SEC. 1206. DUE DILIGENCE IN PAYING BENEFIT whose response to danger is to face it amounts under section 1201(f)(3), including— CLAIMS. head-on and who put others before ‘‘(i) the number of claims that are eligible ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The Bureau, with all due themselves daily. for compensation under both this part and diligence, shall expeditiously attempt to ob- The PSOB program, administered by the September 11th Victim Compensation tain the information and documentation nec- the Department of Justice, provides Fund of 2001 (49 U.S.C. 40101 note; Public Law essary to adjudicate a benefit claim filed under this part, including a claim for finan- death benefits in the form of a one- 107–42) (commonly referred to as the ‘VCF’); time financial payment to eligible sur- ‘‘(ii) for each claim described in clause (i) cial assistance under subpart 2. for which compensation has been paid under ‘‘(b) SUFFICIENT INFORMATION UNAVAIL- vivors of public safety officers who the VCF, the amount of compensation paid ABLE.—If a benefit claim filed under this have died in the line of duty. under the VCF; part, including a claim for financial assist- The program also provides benefits to ‘‘(iii) the number of claims described in ance under subpart 2, is unable to be adju- public safety officers who are perma- clause (i) for which the Bureau has made a dicated by the Bureau because of a lack of nently and totally disabled because of final determination; and information or documentation from a third injuries sustained in the line of duty. ‘‘(iv) the number of claims described in party, such as a public agency, and such in- Finally, the PSOB program provides clause (i) for which the Bureau has not made formation is not readily available to the financial assistance to help pay higher a final determination. claimant, the Bureau may not abandon the ‘‘(3) Not later than 2 years after the date of benefit claim unless the Bureau has utilized education costs for the spouses and enactment of this subsection, and 2 years the investigative tools available to the Bu- children of public safety officers who thereafter, the Comptroller General of the reau to obtain the necessary information or have died or been injured in the line of United States shall— documentation, including subpoenas.’’. duty.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.017 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4250 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 It is a program that is meant to help Mr. Speaker, I support S. 419 because 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the loved ones of fallen officers move it will significantly improve in several the week in which that date falls as forward in the aftermath of tragedies. respects how benefits claims of fallen National Police Week. Unfortunately, in recent years, the and injured officers are processed under S. 419 memorializes our commitment PSOB program has had some incidents the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits to public safety officers, who daily risk of delay, and some families were left in program. To begin with, the bill re- their lives for us, by removing barriers the dark about the status of applica- sponds to the fact that, all too often, that prevent beneficiaries under the tions. These families were unable to these officers and their families, after Benefits program from obtaining the move forward after their tragic losses, experiencing a loss of life or traumatic benefits they so justly deserve. Fami- and we recognize that is not acceptable injury, must then endure months, lies of our first responders deserve for a family that has sacrificed so sometimes years, of uncertainty and timely consideration of benefit claims much for their communities. delay concerning their benefit claims. when their loved ones give the ulti- Legislation was introduced in the S. 419 requires the Bureau to give mate sacrifice. last Congress, and again this Congress substantial weight to evidence and Mr. Speaker, I strongly urge my col- as S. 419, to address these regrettable facts presented by a Federal, State, or leagues to support this measure so that failings. This bill provides for trans- local agency when determining eligi- it may be sent to the President for sig- parency in the processing of claims in bility for death or disability benefits. nature. the PSOB program and codifies meas- In addition, the measure authorizes the Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance ures to ensure the system is stream- Bureau of Justice Assistance to estab- of my time. lined and operates in a fair manner. lish rules based on standards for the b 1430 Mr. Speaker, I commend my col- Benefits program. These two require- leagues for their work and strong sup- ments will help facilitate and expedite Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I port of these law enforcement families. the Benefits program claims processed yield myself the balance of my time I would especially like to commend the and, thereby, reduce the backlog of only to say that I very much appre- gentleman from New York (Mr. KING) families awaiting a decision on their ciate the work on both sides of the for his unwavering support of the fami- benefit claims. aisle, particularly the gentleman from lies of law enforcement. S. 419 also increases transparency of Michigan. In his second inaugural address, the Bureau’s claims processing. It re- This is a good, bipartisan bill which President Lincoln reminded the Amer- quires, for example, the Bureau to pub- should be passed today. I urge my col- ican people: ‘‘To care for him who shall lish and update a report with informa- leagues to support it. have borne the battle and for his widow tion on the status of pending claims re- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance and his orphan.’’ This legislation is de- garding death, disability, and edu- of my time. signed to do exactly that for the brave cational claims submitted, which will Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise men and women in blue who protect increase transparency. today in support of S. 419, the ‘‘Public Safety As we all know, transparency often and serve all of us every day. Officers’ Benefits Improvement Act of 2017’’. leads to accountability, and this bill Mr. Speaker, yesterday this bill The Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program will make the Bureau of Justice Assist- passed the Senate unanimously. I urge or PSOB Program provides death, disability, ance and the Department of Justice my colleagues to support this impor- and education benefits to public safety officers more accountable to the families of tant legislation today. and their survivors. fallen and traumatically injured offi- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of The PSOB Program is administered by the cers, Congress, and the public as well. my time. Bureau of Justice Assistance, or BJA, which is Mr. CONYERS. Mr. Speaker, I yield By requiring that updates or pending a component of the Department of Justice. myself as much time as I may con- benefit claims be posted on public Under the Program, the death benefit is pro- sume. websites, Congress and the public will vided to eligible survivors of public safety offi- Mr. Speaker, I rise today also in be able to evaluate the performance of cers whose death was a direct and proximate strong support of S. 419, the Public the Bureau in timely processing pend- result of a traumatic injury sustained in the line Safety Officers’ Benefits Improvement ing claims. of duty or certain work-related heart attacks or Finally, S. 419 will help ensure that Act, a bill which was just passed by the strokes. families, who are the ultimate victims Senate yesterday. The Program provides a disability benefit to of those who sacrifice their lives for Each day, public safety officers put public safety officers who have been perma- our protection, are not deprived of ben- their lives on the line for the greater nently and totally disabled as the direct and efits they are due under the Public good of those whom they have taken an proximate result of a catastrophic injury sus- Safety Officers’ Benefits program. oath to serve and protect. Unfortu- We all have a responsibility to take tained in the line of duty, if that injury perma- nately, for some of these brave men care of surviving family members when nently prevents the officer from performing any and women, the ultimate sacrifice is a first responder is tragically killed or gainful employment. made, and they will die while in the injured in the line of duty. This bill is The education benefit provides assistance line of duty. a step in the right direction of ensuring to spouses and children of public safety offi- The Public Safety Officers’ Benefits that families are not overly burdened cers killed or disabled in the line of duty who program, which is administered by the and that the public is aware of how the attend an educational program at an eligible Justice Department’s Bureau of Jus- Bureau and the Justice Department are education institution. tice Assistance, was established in 1976 handling claims submitted by family All too often, these first responders and their to provide certain benefits to the fami- members. families needlessly suffer months and years of lies of these officers as well as to offi- Mr. Speaker, the sacrifice of these uncertainty after experiencing a loss of life or cers who are disabled as a result of first responders should not be taken for a traumatic injury. their service. granted, and their families should not This bill is a show of appreciation for the The death benefit is provided to eligi- be unduly burdened when applying for brave men and women who have made the ul- ble survivors of public safety officers benefits under the Public Safety Offi- timate sacrifice while serving in the line of duty whose deaths are a direct and proxi- cers’ Benefits program. Accordingly, I as well as an expression of appreciation and mate result of a traumatic injury sus- support S. 419. I urge my colleagues to support to the families of these first respond- tained in the line of duty or death from do the same. ers. certain heart attacks, strokes, and vas- Mr. Speaker, it is particularly sig- S. 419 improves how the Department of cular ruptures sustained while on duty. nificant to note that S. 419 is being Justice processes claims under the PSOB An education benefit is provided to considered in the midst of National Po- Program. spouses and children of public safety lice Week, a period dedicated to honor The measure authorizes the Bureau of Jus- officers killed or disabled while on our Nation’s fallen law enforcement he- tice Assistance to establish rules based on duty. The program provides disability roes. standards for the PSOB Program and it re- benefits to officers catastrophically in- President John Kennedy, by procla- quires the Bureau of Justice Assistance to jured in the line of duty. mation signed in 1962, designated May give substantial weight to evidence and facts

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.045 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4251 presented by a federal, state, or local agency Sec. 205. Governing body. (9) in 1793, a Baptist missionary named when determining eligibility for death or dis- Sec. 206. Reservation of the Tribe. Bradby took refuge with the Chickahominy ability benefits. Sec. 207. Hunting, fishing, trapping, gath- and took a Chickahominy woman as his wife; ering, and water rights. (10) in 1831, the names of the ancestors of These two requirements will decrease the TITLE III—UPPER MATTAPONI TRIBE the modern-day Chickahominy Indian Tribe time in which claims are processed, thereby began to appear in the Charles City County reducing the backlog of families awaiting a de- Sec. 301. Findings. Sec. 302. Definitions. census records; cision on their benefits claim. Sec. 303. Federal recognition. (11) in 1901, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe S. 419 also increases the level of trans- Sec. 304. Membership; governing documents. formed Samaria Baptist Church; parency regarding claims processed by requir- Sec. 305. Governing body. (12) from 1901 to 1935, Chickahominy men ing the Bureau of Justice Assistance to pub- Sec. 306. Reservation of the Tribe. were assessed a tribal tax so that their chil- lish and update information on the status of Sec. 307. Hunting, fishing, trapping, gath- dren could receive an education; ering, and water rights. (13) the Tribe used the proceeds from the pending claims. tax to build the first Samaria Indian School, TITLE IV—RAPPAHANNOCK TRIBE, INC. By requiring that updates on pending bene- buy supplies, and pay a teacher’s salary; fits claims be posted on public websites, the Sec. 401. Findings. (14) in 1919, C. Lee Moore, Auditor of Public public will be able to evaluate the performance Sec. 402. Definitions. Accounts for Virginia, told Chickahominy of the Bureau of Justice Assistance in timely Sec. 403. Federal recognition. Chief O.W. Adkins that he had instructed the Sec. 404. Membership; governing documents. Commissioner of Revenue for Charles City processing claims. Sec. 405. Governing body. As we honor our fallen heroes this week County to record Chickahominy tribal mem- Sec. 406. Reservation of the Tribe. bers on the county tax rolls as Indian, and during National Police Week, I think now is as Sec. 407. Hunting, fishing, trapping, gath- not as White or colored; greater a time as any to ensure that we re- ering, and water rights. (15) during the period of 1920 through 1930, move barriers that hinder their families from TITLE V—MONACAN INDIAN NATION various Governors of the Commonwealth of obtaining benefits we promised them when we Sec. 501. Findings. Virginia wrote letters of introduction for enacted the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Sec. 502. Definitions. Chickahominy Chiefs who had official busi- Act. Sec. 503. Federal recognition. ness with Federal agencies in Washington, Accordingly, I strongly support S. 419. Sec. 504. Membership; governing documents. DC; The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Sec. 505. Governing body. (16) in 1934, Chickahominy Chief O.O. Sec. 506. Reservation of the Tribe. Adkins wrote to John Collier, Commissioner question is on the motion offered by Sec. 507. Hunting, fishing, trapping, gath- of Indian Affairs, requesting money to ac- the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. ering, and water rights. quire land for the Chickahominy Indian GOODLATTE) that the House suspend TITLE VI—NANSEMOND INDIAN TRIBE Tribe’s use, to build school, medical, and li- the rules and pass the bill, S. 419. brary facilities and to buy tractors, imple- Sec. 601. Findings. The question was taken; and (two- ments, and seed; Sec. 602. Definitions. (17) in 1934, John Collier, Commissioner of thirds being in the affirmative) the Sec. 603. Federal recognition. rules were suspended and the bill was Indian Affairs, wrote to Chickahominy Chief Sec. 604. Membership; governing documents. O.O. Adkins, informing him that Congress passed. Sec. 605. Governing body. had passed the Act of June 18, 1934 (com- Sec. 606. Reservation of the Tribe. A motion to reconsider was laid on monly known as the ‘‘Indian Reorganization Sec. 607. Hunting, fishing, trapping, gath- the table. Act’’) (25 U.S.C. 461 et seq.), but had not ering, and water rights. f made the appropriation to fund the Act; TITLE VII—EMINENT DOMAIN (18) in 1942, Chickahominy Chief O.O. THOMASINA E. JORDAN INDIAN Sec. 701. Limitation. Adkins wrote to John Collier, Commissioner TRIBES OF VIRGINIA FEDERAL SEC. 2. INDIAN CHILD WELFARE ACT OF 1978. of Indian Affairs, asking for help in getting RECOGNITION ACT OF 2017 Nothing in this Act affects the application the proper racial designation on Selective Service records for Chickahominy soldiers; Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I move of section 109 of the Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978 (25 U.S.C. 1919). (19) in 1943, John Collier, Commissioner of to suspend the rules and pass the bill Indian Affairs, asked Douglas S. Freeman, (H.R. 984) to extend Federal recogni- TITLE I—CHICKAHOMINY INDIAN TRIBE editor of the Richmond News-Leader news- tion to the Chickahominy Indian Tribe, SEC. 101. FINDINGS. paper of Richmond, Virginia, to help Vir- the Chickahominy Indian Tribe—East- Congress finds that— ginia Indians obtain proper racial designa- ern Division, the Upper Mattaponi (1) in 1607, when the English settlers set tion on birth records; Tribe, the Rappahannock Tribe, Inc., shore along the Virginia coastline, the (20) Collier stated that his office could not Chickahominy Indian Tribe was one of about officially intervene because it had no respon- the Monacan Indian Nation, and the 30 tribes that received them; sibility for the Virginia Indians, ‘‘as a mat- Nansemond Indian Tribe. (2) in 1614, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe ter largely of historical accident’’, but was The Clerk read the title of the bill. entered into a treaty with Sir Thomas Dale, ‘‘interested in them as descendants of the The text of the bill is as follows: Governor of the Jamestown Colony, under original inhabitants of the region’’; H.R. 984 which— (21) in 1948, the Veterans’ Education Com- (A) the Chickahominy Indian Tribe agreed mittee of the Virginia State Board of Edu- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- to provide 2 bushels of corn per man and send cation approved Samaria Indian School to resentatives of the United States of America in warriors to protect the English; and provide training to veterans; Congress assembled, (B) Sir Thomas Dale agreed in return to (22) that school was established and run by SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE; TABLE OF CONTENTS. allow the Tribe to continue to practice its the Chickahominy Indian Tribe; (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as own tribal governance; (23) in 1950, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe the ‘‘Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of (3) in 1646, a treaty was signed which forced purchased and donated to the Charles City Virginia Federal Recognition Act of 2017’’. the Chickahominy from their homeland to County School Board land to be used to build (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- the area around the York Mattaponi River in a modern school for students of the Chicka- tents of this Act is as follows: present-day King William County, leading to hominy and other Virginia Indian tribes; Sec. 1. Short title; table of contents. the formation of a reservation; (24) the Samaria Indian School included Sec. 2. Indian Child Welfare Act of 1978. (4) in 1677, following Bacon’s Rebellion, the students in grades 1 through 8; TITLE I—CHICKAHOMINY INDIAN TRIBE Queen of Pamunkey signed the Treaty of (25) in 1961, Senator Sam Ervin, Chairman Middle Plantation on behalf of the Chicka- of the Subcommittee on Constitutional Sec. 101. Findings. hominy; Rights of the Committee on the Judiciary of Sec. 102. Definitions. (5) in 1702, the Chickahominy were forced the Senate, requested Chickahominy Chief Sec. 103. Federal recognition. from their reservation, which caused the loss O.O. Adkins to provide assistance in ana- Sec. 104. Membership; governing documents. of a land base; lyzing the status of the constitutional rights Sec. 105. Governing body. (6) in 1711, the College of William and Mary of Indians ‘‘in your area’’; Sec. 106. Reservation of the Tribe. in Williamsburg established a grammar (26) in 1967, the Charles City County school Sec. 107. Hunting, fishing, trapping, gath- school for Indians called Brafferton College; board closed Samaria Indian School and con- ering, and water rights. (7) a Chickahominy child was one of the verted the school to a countywide primary TITLE II—CHICKAHOMINY INDIAN first Indians to attend Brafferton College; school as a step toward full school integra- TRIBE—EASTERN DIVISION (8) in 1750, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe tion of Indian and non-Indian students; Sec. 201. Findings. began to migrate from King William County (27) in 1972, the Charles City County school Sec. 202. Definitions. back to the area around the Chickahominy board began receiving funds under the Indian Sec. 203. Federal recognition. River in New Kent and Charles City Coun- Self-Determination and Education Assist- Sec. 204. Membership; governing documents. ties; ance Act (25 U.S.C. 458aa et seq.) on behalf of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.012 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4252 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 Chickahominy students, which funding is ty, Charles City County, or Henrico County, (15) the Tribe used the proceeds from the provided as of the date of enactment of this Virginia. tax to build the first Samaria Indian School, Act under title V of the Indian Self-Deter- (b) DEADLINE FOR DETERMINATION.—The buy supplies, and pay a teacher’s salary; mination and Education Assistance Act (25 Secretary shall make a final written deter- (16) in 1910, a 1-room school covering U.S.C. 458aaa et seq.); mination not later than three years of the grades 1 through 8 was established in New (28) in 1974, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe date which the Tribe submits a request for Kent County for the Chickahominy Indian bought land and built a tribal center using land to be taken into trust under subsection Tribe—Eastern Division; monthly pledges from tribal members to fi- (a)(2) and shall immediately make that de- (17) during the period of 1920 through 1921, nance the transactions; termination available to the Tribe. the Chickahominy Indian Tribe—Eastern Di- (29) in 1983, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe (c) RESERVATION STATUS.—Any land taken vision began forming a tribal government; was granted recognition as an Indian tribe into trust for the benefit of the Tribe pursu- (18) E.P. Bradby, the founder of the Tribe, by the Commonwealth of Virginia, along ant to this paragraph shall, upon request of was elected to be Chief; the Tribe, be considered part of the reserva- with 5 other Indian tribes; and (19) in 1922, Tsena Commocko Baptist tion of the Tribe. (30) in 1985, Governor Gerald Baliles was Church was organized; (d) GAMING.—The Tribe may not conduct the special guest at an intertribal Thanks- gaming activities as a matter of claimed in- (20) in 1925, a certificate of incorporation giving Day dinner hosted by the Chicka- herent authority or under the authority of was issued to the Chickahominy Indian hominy Indian Tribe. any Federal law, including the Indian Gam- Tribe—Eastern Division; SEC. 102. DEFINITIONS. ing Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.) or (21) in 1950, the 1-room Indian school in In this title: under any regulations thereunder promul- New Kent County was closed and students (1) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ gated by the Secretary or the National In- were bused to Samaria Indian School in means the Secretary of the Interior. dian Gaming Commission. Charles City County; (2) TRIBAL MEMBER.—The term ‘‘tribal SEC. 107. HUNTING, FISHING, TRAPPING, GATH- (22) in 1967, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe member’’ means— ERING, AND WATER RIGHTS. and the Chickahominy Indian Tribe—East- (A) an individual who is an enrolled mem- Nothing in this title expands, reduces, or ern Division lost their schools as a result of ber of the Tribe as of the date of enactment affects in any manner any hunting, fishing, the required integration of students; of this Act; and trapping, gathering, or water rights of the (23) during the period of 1982 through 1984, (B) an individual who has been placed on Tribe and members of the Tribe. Tsena Commocko Baptist Church built a new the membership rolls of the Tribe in accord- TITLE II—CHICKAHOMINY INDIAN sanctuary to accommodate church growth; ance with this title. TRIBE—EASTERN DIVISION (24) in 1983 the Chickahominy Indian Tribe—Eastern Division was granted State (3) TRIBE.—The term ‘‘Tribe’’ means the SEC. 201. FINDINGS. Chickahominy Indian Tribe. Congress finds that— recognition along with 5 other Virginia In- SEC. 103. FEDERAL RECOGNITION. (1) in 1607, when the English settlers set dian tribes; (a) FEDERAL RECOGNITION.— shore along the Virginia coastline, the (25) in 1985— (1) IN GENERAL.—Federal recognition is ex- Chickahominy Indian Tribe was one of about (A) the Virginia Council on Indians was or- tended to the Tribe. 30 tribes that received them; ganized as a State agency; and (2) APPLICABILITY OF LAWS.—All laws (in- (2) in 1614, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe (B) the Chickahominy Indian Tribe—East- cluding regulations) of the United States of entered into a treaty with Sir Thomas Dale, ern Division was granted a seat on the Coun- general applicability to Indians or nations, Governor of the Jamestown Colony, under cil; Indian tribes, or bands of Indians (including which— (26) in 1988, a nonprofit organization known the Act of June 18, 1934 (25 U.S.C. 461 et seq.)) (A) the Chickahominy Indian Tribe agreed as the ‘‘United Indians of Virginia’’ was that are not inconsistent with this title shall to provide 2 bushels of corn per man and send formed; and be applicable to the Tribe and tribal mem- warriors to protect the English; and (27) Chief Marvin ‘‘Strongoak’’ Bradby of bers. (B) Sir Thomas Dale agreed in return to the Eastern Band of the Chickahominy pres- (b) FEDERAL SERVICES AND BENEFITS.— allow the Tribe to continue to practice its ently chairs the organization. (1) IN GENERAL.—On and after the date of own tribal governance; SEC. 202. DEFINITIONS. enactment of this Act, the Tribe and tribal (3) in 1646, a treaty was signed which forced members shall be eligible for all services and the Chickahominy from their homeland to In this title: benefits provided by the Federal Government the area around the York River in present- (1) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ to federally recognized Indian tribes without day King William County, leading to the for- means the Secretary of the Interior. regard to the existence of a reservation for mation of a reservation; (2) TRIBAL MEMBER.—The term ‘‘tribal the Tribe. (4) in 1677, following Bacon’s Rebellion, the member’’ means— (2) SERVICE AREA.—For the purpose of the Queen of Pamunkey signed the Treaty of (A) an individual who is an enrolled mem- delivery of Federal services to tribal mem- Middle Plantation on behalf of the Chicka- ber of the Tribe as of the date of enactment bers, the service area of the Tribe shall be hominy; of this Act; and considered to be the area comprised of New (5) in 1702, the Chickahominy were forced (B) an individual who has been placed on Kent County, James City County, Charles from their reservation, which caused the loss the membership rolls of the Tribe in accord- City County, and Henrico County, Virginia. of a land base; ance with this title. SEC. 104. MEMBERSHIP; GOVERNING DOCU- (6) in 1711, the College of William and Mary (3) TRIBE.—The term ‘‘Tribe’’ means the MENTS. in Williamsburg established a grammar Chickahominy Indian Tribe—Eastern Divi- The membership roll and governing docu- school for Indians called Brafferton College; sion. ments of the Tribe shall be the most recent (7) a Chickahominy child was one of the SEC. 203. FEDERAL RECOGNITION. membership roll and governing documents, first Indians to attend Brafferton College; respectively, submitted by the Tribe to the (8) in 1750, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe (a) FEDERAL RECOGNITION.— Secretary before the date of enactment of began to migrate from King William County (1) IN GENERAL.—Federal recognition is ex- this Act. back to the area around the Chickahominy tended to the Tribe. SEC. 105. GOVERNING BODY. River in New Kent and Charles City Coun- (2) APPLICABILITY OF LAWS.—All laws (in- The governing body of the Tribe shall be— ties; cluding regulations) of the United States of (1) the governing body of the Tribe in place (9) in 1793, a Baptist missionary named general applicability to Indians or nations, as of the date of enactment of this Act; or Bradby took refuge with the Chickahominy Indian tribes, or bands of Indians (including (2) any subsequent governing body elected and took a Chickahominy woman as his wife; the Act of June 18, 1934 (25 U.S.C. 461 et seq.)) in accordance with the election procedures (10) in 1831, the names of the ancestors of that are not inconsistent with this title shall specified in the governing documents of the the modern-day Chickahominy Indian Tribe be applicable to the Tribe and tribal mem- Tribe. began to appear in the Charles City County bers. SEC. 106. RESERVATION OF THE TRIBE. census records; (b) FEDERAL SERVICES AND BENEFITS.— (a) IN GENERAL.—Upon the request of the (11) in 1870, a census revealed an enclave of (1) IN GENERAL.—On and after the date of Tribe, the Secretary of the Interior— Indians in New Kent County that is believed enactment of this Act, the Tribe and tribal (1) shall take into trust for the benefit of to be the beginning of the Chickahominy In- members shall be eligible for all future serv- the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe dian Tribe—Eastern Division; ices and benefits provided by the Federal that was acquired by the Tribe on or before (12) other records were destroyed when the Government to federally recognized Indian January 1, 2007, if such lands are located New Kent County courthouse was burned, tribes without regard to the existence of a within the boundaries of New Kent County, leaving a State census as the only record reservation for the Tribe. James City County, Charles City County, or covering that period; (2) SERVICE AREA.—For the purpose of the Henrico County, Virginia; and (13) in 1901, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe delivery of Federal services to tribal mem- (2) may take into trust for the benefit of formed Samaria Baptist Church; bers, the service area of the Tribe shall be the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe, (14) from 1901 to 1935, Chickahominy men considered to be the area comprised of New if such lands are located within the bound- were assessed a tribal tax so that their chil- Kent County, James City County, Charles aries of New Kent County, James City Coun- dren could receive an education; City County, and Henrico County, Virginia.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.018 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4253 SEC. 204. MEMBERSHIP; GOVERNING DOCU- dians took refuge with the Chickahominy In- (B) an individual who has been placed on MENTS. dians, and the history of the 2 groups was the membership rolls of the Tribe in accord- The membership roll and governing docu- intertwined for many years thereafter; ance with this title. ments of the Tribe shall be the most recent (8) in 1695, the Chickahominy and (3) TRIBE.—The term ‘‘Tribe’’ means the membership roll and governing documents, Mattaponi Indians— Upper Mattaponi Tribe. respectively, submitted by the Tribe to the (A) were assigned a reservation by the Vir- SEC. 303. FEDERAL RECOGNITION. Secretary before the date of enactment of ginia Colony; and (a) FEDERAL RECOGNITION.— this Act. (B) traded land of the reservation for land (1) IN GENERAL.—Federal recognition is ex- SEC. 205. GOVERNING BODY. at the place known as ‘‘the cliffs’’ (which, as tended to the Tribe. The governing body of the Tribe shall be— of the date of enactment of this Act, is the (2) APPLICABILITY OF LAWS.—All laws (in- (1) the governing body of the Tribe in place Mattaponi Indian Reservation), which had cluding regulations) of the United States of as of the date of enactment of this Act; or been owned by the Mattaponi Indians before general applicability to Indians or nations, (2) any subsequent governing body elected 1661; Indian tribes, or bands of Indians (including in accordance with the election procedures (9) in 1711, a Chickahominy boy attended the Act of June 18, 1934 (25 U.S.C. 461 et seq.)) specified in the governing documents of the the Indian School at the College of William that are not inconsistent with this title shall Tribe. and Mary; be applicable to the Tribe and tribal mem- SEC. 206. RESERVATION OF THE TRIBE. (10) in 1726, the Virginia Colony discon- bers. (a) IN GENERAL.—Upon the request of the tinued funding of interpreters for the Chick- (b) FEDERAL SERVICES AND BENEFITS.— Tribe, the Secretary of the Interior— ahominy and Mattaponi Indian Tribes; (1) IN GENERAL.—On and after the date of (1) shall take into trust for the benefit of (11) James Adams, who served as an inter- enactment of this Act, the Tribe and tribal the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe preter to the Indian tribes known as of the members shall be eligible for all services and that was acquired by the Tribe on or before date of enactment of this Act as the ‘‘Upper benefits provided by the Federal Government January 1, 2007, if such lands are located Mattaponi Indian Tribe’’ and ‘‘Chicka- to federally recognized Indian tribes without within the boundaries of New Kent County, hominy Indian Tribe’’, elected to stay with regard to the existence of a reservation for James City County, Charles City County, or the Upper Mattaponi Indians; the Tribe. Henrico County, Virginia; and (12) today, a majority of the Upper (2) SERVICE AREA.—For the purpose of the (2) may take into trust for the benefit of Mattaponi Indians have ‘‘Adams’’ as their delivery of Federal services to tribal mem- the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe, surname; bers, the service area of the Tribe shall be if such lands are located within the bound- (13) in 1787, Thomas Jefferson, in Notes on considered to be the area within 25 miles of aries of New Kent County, James City Coun- the Commonwealth of Virginia, mentioned the Sharon Indian School at 13383 King Wil- ty, Charles City County, or Henrico County, the Mattaponi Indians on a reservation in liam Road, King William County, Virginia. King William County and said that Chicka- Virginia. SEC. 304. MEMBERSHIP; GOVERNING DOCU- (b) DEADLINE FOR DETERMINATION.—The hominy Indians were ‘‘blended’’ with the MENTS. Secretary shall make a final written deter- Mattaponi Indians and nearby Pamunkey In- The membership roll and governing docu- mination not later than three years of the dians; ments of the Tribe shall be the most recent date which the Tribe submits a request for (14) in 1850, the census of the United States membership roll and governing documents, land to be taken into trust under subsection revealed a nucleus of approximately 10 fami- respectively, submitted by the Tribe to the (a)(2) and shall immediately make that de- lies, all ancestral to modern Upper Secretary before the date of enactment of termination available to the Tribe. Mattaponi Indians, living in central King this Act. (c) RESERVATION STATUS.—Any land taken William County, Virginia, approximately 10 SEC. 305. GOVERNING BODY. into trust for the benefit of the Tribe pursu- miles from the reservation; The governing body of the Tribe shall be— ant to this paragraph shall, upon request of (15) during the period of 1853 through 1884, (1) the governing body of the Tribe in place the Tribe, be considered part of the reserva- King William County marriage records listed as of the date of enactment of this Act; or tion of the Tribe. Upper Mattaponis as ‘‘Indians’’ in marrying (d) GAMING.—The Tribe may not conduct (2) any subsequent governing body elected people residing on the reservation; in accordance with the election procedures gaming activities as a matter of claimed in- (16) during the period of 1884 through the herent authority or under the authority of specified in the governing documents of the present, county marriage records usually Tribe. any Federal law, including the Indian Gam- refer to Upper Mattaponis as ‘‘Indians’’; SEC. 306. RESERVATION OF THE TRIBE. ing Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.) or (17) in 1901, Smithsonian anthropologist (a) IN GENERAL.—Upon the request of the under any regulations thereunder promul- James Mooney heard about the Upper Tribe, the Secretary of the Interior— gated by the Secretary or the National In- Mattaponi Indians but did not visit them; (1) shall take into trust for the benefit of dian Gaming Commission. (18) in 1928, University of Pennsylvania an- the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe SEC. 207. HUNTING, FISHING, TRAPPING, GATH- thropologist Frank Speck published a book that was acquired by the Tribe on or before ERING, AND WATER RIGHTS. on modern Virginia Indians with a section on January 1, 2007, if such lands are located Nothing in this title expands, reduces, or the Upper Mattaponis; within the boundaries of King William Coun- affects in any manner any hunting, fishing, (19) from 1929 until 1930, the leadership of ty, Caroline County, Hanover County, King trapping, gathering, or water rights of the the Upper Mattaponi Indians opposed the use and Queen County, and New Kent County, Tribe and members of the Tribe. of a ‘‘colored’’ designation in the 1930 United TITLE III—UPPER MATTAPONI TRIBE States census and won a compromise in Virginia; and (2) may take into trust for the benefit of SEC. 301. FINDINGS. which the Indian ancestry of the Upper Congress finds that— Mattaponis was recorded but questioned; the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe, (1) during the period of 1607 through 1646, (20) during the period of 1942 through 1945— if such lands are located within the bound- the Chickahominy Indian Tribes— (A) the leadership of the Upper Mattaponi aries of King William County, Caroline (A) lived approximately 20 miles from Indians, with the help of Frank Speck and County, Hanover County, King and Queen Jamestown; and others, fought against the induction of County, and New Kent County, Virginia. (b) DEADLINE FOR DETERMINATION.—The (B) were significantly involved in English- young men of the Tribe into ‘‘colored’’ units Secretary shall make a final written deter- Indian affairs; in the Armed Forces of the United States; mination not later than three years of the (2) Mattaponi Indians, who later joined the and date which the Tribe submits a request for Chickahominy Indians, lived a greater dis- (B) a tribal roll for the Upper Mattaponi land to be taken into trust under subsection Indians was compiled; tance from Jamestown; (a)(2) and shall immediately make that de- (21) from 1945 to 1946, negotiations took (3) in 1646, the Chickahominy Indians termination available to the Tribe. place to admit some of the young people of moved to Mattaponi River basin, away from (c) RESERVATION STATUS.—Any land taken the English; the Upper Mattaponi to high schools for Fed- into trust for the benefit of the Tribe pursu- (4) in 1661, the Chickahominy Indians sold eral Indians (especially at Cherokee) because ant to this paragraph shall, upon request of land at a place known as ‘‘the cliffs’’ on the no high school coursework was available for the Tribe, be considered part of the reserva- Mattaponi River; Indians in Virginia schools; and tion of the Tribe. (5) in 1669, the Chickahominy Indians— (22) in 1983, the Upper Mattaponi Indians (d) GAMING.—The Tribe may not conduct (A) appeared in the Virginia Colony’s cen- applied for and won State recognition as an gaming activities as a matter of claimed in- sus of Indian bowmen; and Indian tribe. herent authority or under the authority of (B) lived in ‘‘New Kent’’ County, which in- SEC. 302. DEFINITIONS. any Federal law, including the Indian Gam- cluded the Mattaponi River basin at that In this title: ing Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.) or time; (1) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ under any regulations thereunder promul- (6) in 1677, the Chickahominy and means the Secretary of the Interior. gated by the Secretary or the National In- Mattaponi Indians were subjects of the (2) TRIBAL MEMBER.—The term ‘‘tribal dian Gaming Commission. Queen of Pamunkey, who was a signatory to member’’ means— SEC. 307. HUNTING, FISHING, TRAPPING, GATH- the Treaty of 1677 with the King of England; (A) an individual who is an enrolled mem- ERING, AND WATER RIGHTS. (7) in 1683, after a Mattaponi town was at- ber of the Tribe as of the date of enactment Nothing in this title expands, reduces, or tacked by Seneca Indians, the Mattaponi In- of this Act; and affects in any manner any hunting, fishing,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.018 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4254 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 trapping, gathering, or water rights of the (ii) the English encouraged the (31) Edmund Bird was added to the tax Tribe and members of the Tribe. Rappahannocks to send their children to live roles in 1821; among the English as servants, who the (32) those tax records are significant docu- TITLE IV—RAPPAHANNOCK TRIBE, INC. English promised would be well-treated; mentation because the great majority of pre- SEC. 401. FINDINGS. (15) in 1658, the Virginia Assembly revised 1864 records for King and Queen County were Congress finds that— a 1652 Act stating that ‘‘there be no grants of destroyed by fire; (1) during the initial months after Virginia land to any Englishman whatsoever de (33) beginning in 1819, and continuing was settled, the Rappahannock Indians had 3 futuro until the Indians be first served with through the 1880s, there was a solid Rappa- encounters with Captain John Smith; the proportion of 50 acres of land for each hannock presence in the membership at (2) the first encounter occurred when the bowman’’; Upper Essex Baptist Church; Rappahannock weroance (headman)— (16) in 1669, the colony conducted a census (34) that was the first instance of conver- (A) traveled to Quiyocohannock (a prin- of Virginia Indians; sion to Christianity by at least some Rappa- cipal town across the James River from (17) as of the date of that census— hannock Indians; Jamestown), where he met with Smith to de- (A) the majority of the Rappahannocks (35) while twenty-six identifiable and termine whether Smith had been the ‘‘great were residing at their hunting village on the traceable Rappahannock surnames appear on man’’ who had previously sailed into the north side of the Mattaponi River; and the pre-1863 membership list, and twenty- (B) at the time of the visit, census-takers eight were listed on the 1863 membership ros- Rappahannock River, killed a Rappahannock were counting only the Indian tribes along ter, the number of surnames listed had de- weroance, and kidnapped Rappahannock peo- the rivers, which explains why only 30 Rap- clined to twelve in 1878 and had risen only ple; and pahannock bowmen were counted on that slightly to fourteen by 1888; (B) determined that Smith was too short river; (36) a reason for the decline is that in 1870, to be that ‘‘great man’’; (18) the Rappahannocks used the hunting a Methodist circuit rider, Joseph Mastin, se- (3) on a second meeting, during John village on the north side of the Mattaponi cured funds to purchase land and construct Smith’s captivity (December 16, 1607, to Jan- River as their primary residence until the St. Stephens Baptist Church for the uary 8, 1608), Smith was taken to the Rappa- Rappahannocks were removed in 1684; Rappahannocks living nearby in Caroline hannock principal village to show the people (19) in May 1677, the Treaty of Middle Plan- County; that Smith was not the ‘‘great man’’; tation was signed with England; (37) Mastin referred to the Rappahannocks (4) a third meeting took place during (20) the Pamunkey Queen Cockacoeske during the period of 1850 to 1870 as ‘‘Indians, Smith’s exploration of the Chesapeake Bay signed on behalf of the Rappahannocks, having a great need for moral and Christian (July to September 1608), when, after the ‘‘who were supposed to be her tributaries’’, guidance’’; Moraughtacund Indians had stolen 3 women but before the treaty could be ratified, the (38) St. Stephens was the dominant tribal from the Rappahannock King, Smith was Queen of Pamunkey complained to the Vir- church until the Rappahannock Indian Bap- prevailed upon to facilitate a peaceful truce ginia Colonial Council ‘‘that she was having tist Church was established in 1964; between the Rappahannock and the trouble with Rappahannocks and (39) at both churches, the core Rappahan- Moraughtacund Indians; Chickahominies, supposedly tributaries of nock family names of Bird, Clarke, Fortune, (5) in the settlement, Smith had the 2 In- hers’’; Johnson, Nelson, Parker, and Richardson dian tribes meet on the spot of their first (21) in November 1682, the Virginia Colo- predominate; fight; nial Council established a reservation for the (40) during the early 1900s, James Mooney, (6) when it was established that both Rappahannock Indians of 3,474 acres ‘‘about noted anthropologist, maintained cor- groups wanted peace, Smith told the Rappa- the town where they dwelt’’; respondence with the Rappahannocks, sur- hannock King to select which of the 3 stolen (22) the Rappahannock ‘‘town’’ was the veying them and instructing them on how to women he wanted; hunting village on the north side of the formalize their tribal government; (7) the Moraughtacund King was given sec- Mattaponi River, where the Rappahannocks (41) in November 1920, Speck visited the ond choice among the 2 remaining women, had lived throughout the 1670s; Rappahannocks and assisted them in orga- and Mosco, a Wighcocomoco (on the Poto- (23) the acreage allotment of the reserva- nizing the fight for their sovereign rights; mac River) guide, was given the third tion was based on the 1658 Indian land act, (42) in 1921, the Rappahannocks were grant- woman; which translates into a bowman population ed a charter from the Commonwealth of Vir- (8) in 1645, Captain William Claiborne tried of 70, or an approximate total Rappahannock ginia formalizing their tribal government; unsuccessfully to establish treaty relations population of 350; (43) Speck began a professional relation- with the Rappahannocks, as the (24) in 1683, following raids by Iroquoian ship with the Tribe that would last more Rappahannocks had not participated in the warriors on both Indian and English settle- than 30 years and document Rappahannock Pamunkey-led uprising in 1644, and the ments, the Virginia Colonial Council ordered history and traditions as never before; English wanted to ‘‘treat with the the Rappahannocks to leave their reserva- (44) in April 1921, Rappahannock Chief Rappahannocks or any other Indians not in tion and unite with the Nanzatico Indians at George Nelson asked the Governor of Vir- amity with Opechancanough, concerning Nanzatico Indian Town, which was located ginia, Westmoreland Davis, to forward a serving the county against the Pamunkeys’’; across and up the Rappahannock River some proclamation to the President of the United (9) in April 1651, the Rappahannocks con- 30 miles; States, along with an appended list of tribal veyed a tract of land to an English settler, (25) between 1687 and 1699, the members and a handwritten copy of the proc- Colonel Morre Fauntleroy; Rappahannocks migrated out of Nanzatico, lamation itself; (10) the deed for the conveyance was signed returning to the south side of the Rappahan- (45) the letter concerned Indian freedom of by Accopatough, weroance of the Rappahan- nock River at Portobacco Indian Town; speech and assembly nationwide; nock Indians; (26) in 1706, by order of Essex County, Lieu- (46) in 1922, the Rappahannocks established (11) in September 1653, Lancaster County tenant Richard Covington ‘‘escorted’’ the a formal school at Lloyds, Essex County, signed a treaty with Rappahannock Indians, Portobaccos and Rappahannocks out of Virginia; the terms of which treaty— Portobacco Indian Town, out of Essex Coun- (47) prior to establishment of the school, (A) gave Rappahannocks the rights of Eng- ty, and into King and Queen County where Rappahannock children were taught by a lishmen in the county court; and they settled along the ridgeline between the tribal member in Central Point, Caroline (B) attempted to make the Rappahannocks Rappahannock and Mattaponi Rivers, the County, Virginia; more accountable under English law; site of their ancient hunting village and 1682 (48) in December 1923, Rappahannock Chief (12) in September 1653, Lancaster County reservation; George Nelson testified before Congress ap- defined and marked the bounds of its Indian (27) during the 1760s, 3 Rappahannock girls pealing for a $50,000 appropriation to estab- settlements; were raised on Thomas Nelson’s Bleak Hill lish an Indian school in Virginia; (13) according to the Lancaster clerk of Plantation in King William County; (49) in 1930, the Rappahannocks were en- court, ‘‘the tribe called the great (28) of those girls— gaged in an ongoing dispute with the Com- Rappahannocks lived on the Rappahannock (A) one married a Saunders man; monwealth of Virginia and the United States Creek just across the river above (B) one married a Johnson man; and Census Bureau about their classification in Tappahannock’’; (C) one had 2 children, Edmund and Carter the 1930 Federal census; (14) in September 1656, (Old) Rappahannock Nelson, fathered by Thomas Cary Nelson; (50) in January 1930, Rappahannock Chief County (which, as of the date of enactment (29) in the 19th century, those Saunders, Otho S. Nelson wrote to Leon Truesdell, of this Act, is comprised of Richmond and Johnson, and Nelson families are among the Chief Statistician of the United States Cen- Essex Counties, Virginia) signed a treaty core Rappahannock families from which the sus Bureau, asking that the 218 enrolled with Rappahannock Indians that— modern Tribe traces its descent; Rappahannocks be listed as Indians; (A) mirrored the Lancaster County treaty (30) in 1819 and 1820, Edward Bird, John (51) in February 1930, Truesdell replied to from 1653; and Bird (and his wife), Carter Nelson, Edmund Nelson saying that ‘‘special instructions’’ (B) stated that— Nelson, and Carter Spurlock (all Rappahan- were being given about classifying Indians; (i) Rappahannocks were to be rewarded, in nock ancestors) were listed on the tax roles (52) in April 1930, Nelson wrote to William Roanoke, for returning English fugitives; of King and Queen County and taxed at the M. Steuart at the Census Bureau asking and county poor rate; about the enumerators’ failure to classify his

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.018 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4255 people as Indians, saying that enumerators SEC. 402. DEFINITIONS. (a)(2) and shall immediately make that de- had not asked the question about race when In this title: termination available to the Tribe. they interviewed his people; (1) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ (c) RESERVATION STATUS.—Any land taken (53) in a followup letter to Truesdell, Nel- means the Secretary of the Interior. into trust for the benefit of the Tribe pursu- son reported that the enumerators were (2) TRIBAL MEMBER.—The term ‘‘tribal ant to this paragraph shall, upon request of ‘‘flatly denying’’ his people’s request to be member’’ means— the Tribe, be considered part of the reserva- listed as Indians and that the race question (A) an individual who is an enrolled mem- tion of the Tribe. was completely avoided during interviews; ber of the Tribe as of the date of enactment (d) GAMING.—The Tribe may not conduct (54) the Rappahannocks had spoken with of this Act; and gaming activities as a matter of claimed in- Caroline and Essex County enumerators, and (B) an individual who has been placed on herent authority or under the authority of with John M.W. Green at that point, without the membership rolls of the Tribe in accord- any Federal law, including the Indian Gam- success; ance with this title. ing Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.) or (55) Nelson asked Truesdell to list people (3) TRIBE.— under any regulations thereunder promul- as Indians if he sent a list of members; (A) IN GENERAL.—The term ‘‘Tribe’’ means gated by the Secretary or the National In- (56) the matter was settled by William the organization possessing the legal name dian Gaming Commission. Steuart, who concluded that the Bureau’s Rappahannock Tribe, Inc. SEC. 407. HUNTING, FISHING, TRAPPING, GATH- rule was that people of Indian descent could (B) EXCLUSIONS.—The term ‘‘Tribe’’ does ERING, AND WATER RIGHTS. be classified as ‘‘Indian’’ only if Indian not include any other Indian tribe, subtribe, Nothing in this title expands, reduces, or ‘‘blood’’ predominated and ‘‘Indian’’ identity band, or splinter group the members of affects in any manner any hunting, fishing, was accepted in the local community; which represent themselves as Rappahan- trapping, gathering, or water rights of the (57) the Virginia Vital Statistics Bureau nock Indians. Tribe and members of the Tribe. classed all nonreservation Indians as SEC. 403. FEDERAL RECOGNITION. TITLE V—MONACAN INDIAN NATION ‘‘Negro’’, and it failed to see why ‘‘an excep- (a) FEDERAL RECOGNITION.— SEC. 501. FINDINGS. tion should be made’’ for the (1) IN GENERAL.—Federal recognition is ex- Congress finds that— Rappahannocks; tended to the Tribe. (1) in 1677, the Monacan Tribe signed the (58) therefore, in 1925, the Indian Rights (2) APPLICABILITY OF LAWS.—All laws (in- Treaty of Middle Plantation between Charles Association took on the Rappahannock case cluding regulations) of the United States of II of England and 12 Indian ‘‘Kings and Chief to assist the Rappahannocks in fighting for general applicability to Indians or nations, Men’’; their recognition and rights as an Indian Indian tribes, or bands of Indians (including (2) in 1722, in the Treaty of Albany, Gov- tribe; the Act of June 18, 1934 (25 U.S.C. 461 et seq.)) ernor Spotswood negotiated to save the Vir- (59) during the Second World War, the that are not inconsistent with this title shall ginia Indians from extinction at the hands of Pamunkeys, Mattaponis, Chickahominies, be applicable to the Tribe and tribal mem- the Iroquois; and Rappahannocks had to fight the draft bers. (3) specifically mentioned in the negotia- boards with respect to their racial identities; (b) FEDERAL SERVICES AND BENEFITS.— tions were the Monacan tribes of the Totero (60) the Virginia Vital Statistics Bureau (1) IN GENERAL.—On and after the date of (Tutelo), Saponi, Ocheneeches (Occaneechi), insisted that certain Indian draftees be in- enactment of this Act, the Tribe and tribal Stengenocks, and Meipontskys; ducted into Negro units; members shall be eligible for all services and (4) in 1790, the first national census re- (61) finally, 3 Rappahannocks were con- benefits provided by the Federal Government corded Benjamin Evans and Robert Johns, victed of violating the Federal draft laws to federally recognized Indian tribes without both ancestors of the present Monacan com- and, after spending time in a Federal prison, regard to the existence of a reservation for munity, listed as ‘‘white’’ with mulatto chil- were granted conscientious objector status the Tribe. dren; and served out the remainder of the war (2) SERVICE AREA.—For the purpose of the (5) in 1782, tax records also began for those working in military hospitals; delivery of Federal services to tribal mem- families; (62) in 1943, Frank Speck noted that there bers, the service area of the Tribe shall be (6) in 1850, the United States census re- were approximately 25 communities of Indi- considered to be the area comprised of King corded 29 families, mostly large, with Mona- ans left in the Eastern United States that and Queen County, Caroline County, Essex can surnames, the members of which are were entitled to Indian classification, includ- County, and King William County, Virginia. genealogically related to the present coming the Rappahannocks; SEC. 404. MEMBERSHIP; GOVERNING DOCU- munity; (63) in the 1940s, Leon Truesdell, Chief MENTS. (7) in 1870, a log structure was built at the Statistician, of the United States Census Bu- The membership roll and governing docu- Bear Mountain Indian Mission; reau, listed 118 members in the Rappahan- ments of the Tribe shall be the most recent (8) in 1908, the structure became an Epis- nock Tribe in the Indian population of Vir- membership roll and governing documents, copal Mission and, as of the date of enact- ginia; respectively, submitted by the Tribe to the ment of this Act, the structure is listed as a (64) on April 25, 1940, the Office of Indian Secretary before the date of enactment of landmark on the National Register of His- Affairs of the Department of the Interior in- this Act. toric Places; cluded the Rappahannocks on a list of Indian SEC. 405. GOVERNING BODY. (9) in 1920, 304 Amherst Indians were identi- tribes classified by State and by agency; The governing body of the Tribe shall be— fied in the United States census; (65) in 1948, the Smithsonian Institution (1) the governing body of the Tribe in place (10) from 1930 through 1931, numerous let- Annual Report included an article by Wil- as of the date of enactment of this Act; or ters from Monacans to the Bureau of the liam Harlen Gilbert entitled, ‘‘Surviving In- (2) any subsequent governing body elected Census resulted from the decision of Dr. Wal- dian Groups of the Eastern United States’’, in accordance with the election procedures ter Plecker, former head of the Bureau of which included and described the Rappahan- specified in the governing documents of the Vital Statistics of the Commonwealth of Vir- nock Tribe; Tribe. ginia, not to allow Indians to register as In- (66) in the late 1940s and early 1950s, the SEC. 406. RESERVATION OF THE TRIBE. dians for the 1930 census; Rappahannocks operated a school at Indian (a) IN GENERAL.—Upon the request of the (11) the Monacans eventually succeeded in Neck; Tribe, the Secretary of the Interior— being allowed to claim their race, albeit with (67) the State agreed to pay a tribal teach- (1) shall take into trust for the benefit of an asterisk attached to a note from Dr. er to teach 10 students bused by King and the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe Plecker stating that there were no Indians in Queen County to Sharon Indian School in that was acquired by the Tribe on or before Virginia; King William County, Virginia; January 1, 2007, if such lands are located (12) in 1947, D’Arcy McNickle, a Salish In- (68) in 1965, Rappahannock students en- within the boundaries of King and Queen dian, saw some of the children at the Am- tered Marriott High School (a White public County, Stafford County, Spotsylvania herst Mission and requested that the Cher- school) by Executive order of the Governor County, Richmond County, Essex County, okee Agency visit them because they ap- of Virginia; and Caroline County, Virginia; and peared to be Indian; (69) in 1972, the Rappahannocks worked (2) may take into trust for the benefit of (13) that letter was forwarded to the De- with the Coalition of Eastern Native Ameri- the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe, partment of the Interior, Office of Indian Af- cans to fight for Federal recognition; if such lands are located within the bound- fairs, Chicago, Illinois; (70) in 1979, the Coalition established a pot- aries of King and Queen County, Richmond (14) Chief Jarrett Blythe of the Eastern tery and artisans company, operating with County, Lancaster County, King George Band of Cherokee did visit the Mission and other Virginia tribes; County, Essex County, Caroline County, New wrote that he ‘‘would be willing to accept (71) in 1980, the Rappahannocks received Kent County, King William County, and these children in the Cherokee school’’; funding through the Administration for Na- James City County, Virginia. (15) in 1979, a Federal Coalition of Eastern tive Americans of the Department of Health (b) DEADLINE FOR DETERMINATION.—The Native Americans established the entity and Human Services to develop an economic Secretary shall make a final written deter- known as ‘‘Monacan Co-operative Pottery’’ program for the Tribe; and mination not later than three years of the at the Amherst Mission; (72) in 1983, the Rappahannocks received date which the Tribe submits a request for (16) some important pieces were produced State recognition as an Indian tribe. land to be taken into trust under subsection at Monacan Co-operative Pottery, including

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00029 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.018 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4256 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 a piece that was sold to the Smithsonian In- as East 731 Sandbridge (encompassing ap- and English descent, and that his Indian line stitution; proximately 4.74 acres) and East 731 (encom- of ancestry ran directly back to the early (17) the Mattaponi-Pamunkey-Monacan passing approximately 5.12 acres). 18th century elder in a traditionalist section Consortium, established in 1981, has since (b) DEADLINE FOR DETERMINATION.—The of Nansemonds on the reservation; been organized as a nonprofit corporation Secretary shall make a final written deter- (15) in 1833, Virginia enacted a law enabling that serves as a vehicle to obtain funds for mination not later than three years of the people of European and Indian descent to ob- those Indian tribes from the Department of date which the Tribe submits a request for tain a special certificate of ancestry; Labor under Native American programs; land to be taken into trust under subsection (16) the law originated from the county in (18) in 1989, the Monacan Tribe was recog- (a)(2) and shall immediately make that de- which Nansemonds lived, and mostly nized by the Commonwealth of Virginia, termination available to the Tribe. Nansemonds, with a few people from other which enabled the Tribe to apply for grants (c) RESERVATION STATUS.—Any land taken counties, took advantage of the new law; and participate in other programs; and into trust for the benefit of the Tribe pursu- (17) a Methodist mission established (19) in 1993, the Monacan Tribe received ant to this paragraph shall, upon request of around 1850 for Nansemonds is currently a tax-exempt status as a nonprofit corporation the Tribe, be considered part of the reserva- standard Methodist congregation with from the Internal Revenue Service. tion of the Tribe. Nansemond members; SEC. 502. DEFINITIONS. (d) GAMING.—The Tribe may not conduct (18) in 1901, Smithsonian anthropologist In this title: gaming activities as a matter of claimed in- James Mooney— (1) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ herent authority or under the authority of (A) visited the Nansemonds; and means the Secretary of the Interior. any Federal law, including the Indian Gam- (B) completed a tribal census that counted (2) TRIBAL MEMBER.—The term ‘‘tribal ing Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.) or 61 households and was later published; member’’ means— under any regulations thereunder promul- (19) in 1922, Nansemonds were given a spe- (A) an individual who is an enrolled mem- gated by the Secretary or the National In- cial Indian school in the segregated school ber of the Tribe as of the date of enactment dian Gaming Commission. system of Norfolk County; of this Act; and SEC. 507. HUNTING, FISHING, TRAPPING, GATH- (20) the school survived only a few years; (B) an individual who has been placed on ERING, AND WATER RIGHTS. (21) in 1928, University of Pennsylvania an- the membership rolls of the Tribe in accord- Nothing in this title expands, reduces, or thropologist Frank Speck published a book ance with this title. affects in any manner any hunting, fishing, on modern Virginia Indians that included a section on the Nansemonds; and (3) TRIBE.—The term ‘‘Tribe’’ means the trapping, gathering, or water rights of the Monacan Indian Nation. Tribe and members of the Tribe. (22) the Nansemonds were organized for- TITLE VI—NANSEMOND INDIAN TRIBE mally, with elected officers, in 1984, and later SEC. 503. FEDERAL RECOGNITION. applied for and received State recognition. (a) FEDERAL RECOGNITION.— SEC. 601. FINDINGS. SEC. 602. DEFINITIONS. (1) IN GENERAL.—Federal recognition is ex- Congress finds that— In this title: tended to the Tribe. (1) from 1607 until 1646, Nansemond Indi- (1) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ (2) APPLICABILITY OF LAWS.—All laws (in- ans— means the Secretary of the Interior. cluding regulations) of the United States of (A) lived approximately 30 miles from (2) TRIBAL MEMBER.—The term ‘‘tribal general applicability to Indians or nations, Jamestown; and member’’ means— Indian tribes, or bands of Indians (including (B) were significantly involved in English- (A) an individual who is an enrolled mem- the Act of June 18, 1934 (25 U.S.C. 461 et seq.)) Indian affairs; ber of the Tribe as of the date of enactment that are not inconsistent with this title shall (2) after 1646, there were 2 sections of of this Act; and be applicable to the Tribe and tribal mem- Nansemonds in communication with each (B) an individual who has been placed on bers. other, the Christianized Nansemonds in Nor- the membership rolls of the Tribe in accord- (b) FEDERAL SERVICES AND BENEFITS.— folk County, who lived as citizens, and the ance with this title. (1) IN GENERAL.—On and after the date of traditionalist Nansemonds, who lived further (3) TRIBE.—The term ‘‘Tribe’’ means the enactment of this Act, the Tribe and tribal west; Nansemond Indian Tribe. members shall be eligible for all services and (3) in 1638, according to an entry in a 17th SEC. 603. FEDERAL RECOGNITION. benefits provided by the Federal Government century sermon book still owned by the (a) FEDERAL RECOGNITION.— to federally recognized Indian tribes without Chief’s family, a Norfolk County Englishman (1) IN GENERAL.—Federal recognition is ex- regard to the existence of a reservation for married a Nansemond woman; tended to the Tribe. the Tribe. (4) that man and woman are lineal ances- (2) APPLICABILITY OF LAWS.—All laws (in- (2) SERVICE AREA.—For the purpose of the tors of all of members of the Nansemond In- cluding regulations) of the United States of delivery of Federal services to tribal mem- dian tribe alive as of the date of enactment general applicability to Indians or nations, bers, the service area of the Tribe shall be of this Act, as are some of the traditionalist Indian tribes, or bands of Indians (including considered to be the area comprised of all Nansemonds; the Act of June 18, 1934 (25 U.S.C. 461 et seq.)) land within 25 miles from the center of Am- (5) in 1669, the 2 Nansemond sections ap- that are not inconsistent with this title shall herst, Virginia. peared in Virginia Colony’s census of Indian be applicable to the Tribe and tribal mem- SEC. 504. MEMBERSHIP; GOVERNING DOCU- bowmen; bers. MENTS. (6) in 1677, Nansemond Indians were sig- (b) FEDERAL SERVICES AND BENEFITS.— The membership roll and governing docu- natories to the Treaty of 1677 with the King (1) IN GENERAL.—On and after the date of ments of the Tribe shall be the most recent of England; enactment of this Act, the Tribe and tribal membership roll and governing documents, (7) in 1700 and 1704, the Nansemonds and members shall be eligible for all services and respectively, submitted by the Tribe to the other Virginia Indian tribes were prevented benefits provided by the Federal Government Secretary before the date of enactment of by Virginia Colony from making a separate to federally recognized Indian tribes without this Act. peace with the Iroquois; regard to the existence of a reservation for SEC. 505. GOVERNING BODY. (8) Virginia represented those Indian tribes the Tribe. The governing body of the Tribe shall be— in the final Treaty of Albany, 1722; (2) SERVICE AREA.—For the purpose of the (1) the governing body of the Tribe in place (9) in 1711, a Nansemond boy attended the delivery of Federal services to tribal mem- as of the date of enactment of this Act; or Indian School at the College of William and bers, the service area of the Tribe shall be (2) any subsequent governing body elected Mary; considered to be the area comprised of the in accordance with the election procedures (10) in 1727, Norfolk County granted Wil- cities of Chesapeake, Hampton, Newport specified in the governing documents of the liam Bass and his kinsmen the ‘‘Indian privi- News, Norfolk, Portsmouth, Suffolk, and Tribe. leges’’ of clearing swamp land and bearing Virginia Beach, Virginia. SEC. 506. RESERVATION OF THE TRIBE. arms (which privileges were forbidden to SEC. 604. MEMBERSHIP; GOVERNING DOCU- (a) IN GENERAL.—Upon the request of the other non-Whites) because of their MENTS. Tribe, the Secretary of the Interior— Nansemond ancestry, which meant that Bass The membership roll and governing docu- (1) shall take into trust for the benefit of and his kinsmen were original inhabitants of ments of the Tribe shall be the most recent the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe that land; membership roll and governing documents, that was acquired by the Tribe on or before (11) in 1742, Norfolk County issued a certifi- respectively, submitted by the Tribe to the January 1, 2007, if such lands are located cate of Nansemond descent to William Bass; Secretary before the date of enactment of within the boundaries of Amherst County, (12) from the 1740s to the 1790s, the tradi- this Act. Virginia; and tionalist section of the Nansemond tribe, 40 SEC. 605. GOVERNING BODY. (2) may take into trust for the benefit of miles west of the Christianized Nansemonds, The governing body of the Tribe shall be— the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe, was dealing with reservation land; (1) the governing body of the Tribe in place if such lands are located within the bound- (13) the last surviving members of that sec- as of the date of enactment of this Act; or aries of Amherst County, Virginia, and those tion sold out in 1792 with the permission of (2) any subsequent governing body elected parcels in Rockbridge County, Virginia (sub- the Commonwealth of Virginia; in accordance with the election procedures ject to the consent of the local unit of gov- (14) in 1797, Norfolk County issued a certifi- specified in the governing documents of the ernment), owned by Mr. J. Poole, described cate stating that William Bass was of Indian Tribe.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.018 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4257 SEC. 606. RESERVATION OF THE TRIBE. tribes populated coastal Virginia when Alaska Native Affairs held a hearing on (a) IN GENERAL.—Upon the request of the Captain John Smith settled at James- Virginia tribal recognition. Most re- Tribe, the Secretary of the Interior— town in 1607. They were also the first of cently, the committee marked up and (1) shall take into trust for the benefit of the American Indian tribes that en- reported the Virginia tribal recogni- the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe that was acquired by the Tribe on or before tered into peace agreements, actually tion as part of Chairman BISHOP’s Trib- January 1, 2007, if such lands are located entered into peace agreements with the al Recognition Act in December. Dur- within the boundaries of the city of Suffolk, Crown of England because United ing the legislative hearing, the pre- the city of Chesapeake, or Isle of Wight States, at that time, was not formally vious administration’s Assistant Sec- County, Virginia; and a nation yet. So they were peace-loving retary for Indian Affairs testified that (2) may take into trust for the benefit of even before the United States came of they did not object to action by Con- the Tribe any land held in fee by the Tribe, age. gress to enact the bill, given Congress’ if such lands are located within the bound- Also, the connections that these authority under the Constitution to aries of the city of Suffolk, the city of Chesa- tribes have with the Nation and the recognize tribes. At the hearing, mem- peake, or Isle of Wight County, Virginia. settlement of the Nation are extraor- (b) DEADLINE FOR DETERMINATION.—The bers of the committee also expressed Secretary shall make a final written deter- dinarily important. If you go back in bipartisan support for recognizing mination not later than three years of the time, you know that six of these tribes these six first-contact Virginia tribes. date which the Tribe submits a request for were part of the Powhatan Nation. We Additionally, this legislation pre- land to be taken into trust under subsection know famously that Pocahontas was a viously passed the House in both the (a)(2) and shall immediately make that de- member of the Powhatan Nation, and 110th and the 111th Congress. It is clear termination available to the Tribe. also there in Werowocomoco, there on that there is wide bipartisan support (c) RESERVATION STATUS.—Any land taken the shores of the York River, saved the into trust for the benefit of the Tribe pursu- for this issue across the Common- life of Captain John Smith; so we can wealth, across our Nation, and here in ant to this paragraph shall, upon request of see the significant impact that these the Tribe, be considered part of the reserva- Congress. tion of the Tribe. tribes have had on the Nation’s history Federal recognition would acknowl- (d) GAMING.—The Tribe may not conduct and where we are today. edge and protect historical and cul- They are called first-contact tribes gaming activities as a matter of claimed in- tural identities of these tribes for the because they were the first tribes to herent authority or under the authority of benefit of all Americans. It would af- any Federal law, including the Indian Gam- contact the settlers as they came here firm the government-to-government ing Regulatory Act (25 U.S.C. 2701 et seq.) or to America to settle our land. In relationship between the United States under any regulations thereunder promul- Jamestown there, the first connection and these first-contact Virginia tribes gated by the Secretary or the National In- they had was with these Virginia as a matter of respect out of what they dian Gaming Commission. tribes. These first-contact tribes, as I did in working to make this Nation SEC. 607. HUNTING, FISHING, TRAPPING, GATH- have said, are intertwined with the ERING, AND WATER RIGHTS. what it is today and also in helping birth of our Nation over 400 years ago, Nothing in this title expands, reduces, or create opportunities to enhance and affects in any manner any hunting, fishing, and they continue today to preserve a culture and heritage integral to Vir- protect the well-being of tribal mem- trapping, gathering, or water rights of the bers. Tribe and members of the Tribe. ginia and to the Nation. They are very This legislation will also provide cer- proud of their history, and the tribal TITLE VII—EMINENT DOMAIN tainty and finality on the gaming issue members today do much for our State SEC. 701. LIMITATION. for the six Virginia tribes. H.R. 984 Eminent domain may not be used to ac- in many different ways, as well as for our Nation, and are passionate about clearly prohibits the tribes from con- quire lands in fee or in trust for an Indian ducting gaming activities under the In- tribe recognized under this Act. making sure that they are recognized, dian Gaming Regulatory Act. The Fed- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- as other tribes are, in their critical nature to the government and Nation eral Government’s failure to recognize ant to the rule, the gentleman from the Virginia tribes is a serious injus- Virginia (Mr. WITTMAN) and the gen- that we have today. It is notable that many tribal mem- tice, but it is one that we here today tleman from Florida (Mr. SOTO) each can correct. will control 20 minutes. bers have also served our country bravely as part of the United States Congress retains the authority to The Chair recognizes the gentleman recognize Indian tribes, and I believe from Virginia. military. It is unacceptable that these tribal members, who selflessly and that it is right and just for us to con- GENERAL LEAVE proudly served under the American flag tinue to exercise that authority under Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I ask during our Nation’s conflicts, from the the Constitution and recognize these unanimous consent that all Members Revolutionary War to the wars in Iraq six first-contact Virginia tribes. These may have 5 legislative days to revise and Afghanistan, have not been offi- first-contact tribes deserve equity and and extend their remarks and include cially recognized by the Federal Gov- parity under the law. It is absolutely extraneous materials on the bill under ernment. long overdue. consideration. Congressional recognition is also nec- I urge your support for H.R. 984. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there essary because the record requirements Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of objection to the request of the gen- by the Bureau of Indian Affairs admin- my time. tleman from Virginia? istration process unfairly penalizes Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- There was no objection. these Virginia tribes. Tribal records of self such time as I may consume. Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield these tribes were destroyed during the We are here today, more than 400 myself such time as I may consume. Civil War when many eastern Virginia years after the first English settlers H.R. 984, the Thomasina E. Jordan courthouses were destroyed. Addition- landed in what became Jamestown, Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Rec- ally, early 20th century Virginia racial Virginia, to finally establish a govern- ognition Act of 2017 will extend Federal purity laws barred Native Americans ment-to-government relationship with recognition to the Chickahominy from identifying as Indian on State- the Indian tribes who greeted those Tribe, the Eastern Chickahominy issued birth certificates. settlers. Tribe, the Upper Mattaponi Tribe, the It is for these reasons that I am The Virginia tribes that are recog- Rappahannock Tribe, the Monacan In- proud to have worked along with sev- nized in this bill have treaties with the dian Nation, and the Nansemond In- eral of my Virginia colleagues in the King of England that date back to the dian Tribe. House and the Senate to introduce this early 1600s. Their ancestors were there My district, the First Congressional legislation that has received wide bi- at Jamestown and facilitated the very District of Virginia, includes the his- partisan support, including from founding and early development of our torical tribal areas of several of these former and current Virginia Governors Nation. tribes. The six tribes are culturally and who strongly supported this effort to These tribes have been unable to historically significant to the Com- recognize these tribes. claim their rightful Indian identity in monwealth of Virginia and to the story During the 114th Congress, the Sub- relation to the Federal Government, of America itself. Ancestors from these committee on Indian, Insular, and due in great part to the machinations

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.018 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4258 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 of one man, Walter Ashby Plecker, the protections and financial obligations. Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, it is time to State registrar for the Commonwealth Federal recognition will provide finan- right this wrong injustice and bring in the early 20th century. Plecker, an cial assistance for the tribes’ social truth back into our history. avowed White supremacist, ran Vir- services, their healthcare, their hous- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ginia’s Bureau of Vital Statistics for ing needs, educational opportunities, support this legislation, and I yield over 34 years. From 1912 to 1947, and repatriation of the remains of their back the balance of my time. Plecker set out to rid the Common- ancestors in a respectful manner. Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield wealth of any documents that recorded These opportunities will allow Vir- myself such time as I may consume. the existence of Indians or Indian ginia’s tribes to flourish culturally and I would like to also recognize the tribes living therein. economically. These opportunities will leaders of our Virginia tribes today. He was instrumental in ensuring pas- lead to a better, brighter future for the Several of those members are with us sage of the Racial Integrity Act in 1924, next generation. Federal recognition is here in the gallery today to witness a making it illegal for individuals to an issue I have cared deeply about long overdue action by Congress to for- classify themselves or their newborn since my time in the Virginia General mally recognize those Virginia tribes. children as Indian. But he went even Assembly. I am proud and humbled to Those Virginia tribal leaders have been further and spent decades removing the cosponsor this legislation. tremendous in their resolve and in category of Indian from birth and mar- We have waited too long, Mr. Speak- their support to make sure that we riage records. Although this paper er, to recognize Virginia tribes. I urge right this injustice. genocide, as it has been termed, at- my colleagues to support passage. I want to thank them for what they tempted to erase the Virginia Indians Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I yield have done. They have been tireless in from history, the tribal members held such time as he may consume to the their support for the things that they firm to their culture and to their iden- gentleman from Virginia (Mr. CON- have done to make sure that we all ap- tity. NOLLY). preciate and understand the great his- In 1997, State legislation was passed Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I tory with these Virginia tribes. to help correct the records of the Vir- thank my friend from Virginia for his I would be remiss if I didn’t mention ginia Indians. Soon after, the Virginia leadership on this very important piece that those members of the tribes Indians began their quest for Federal of legislation, important not only for today, a number are getting smaller recognition. Passage of this legislation the Commonwealth of Virginia but for and smaller. And this is really only will finally put to end their 20-year the rights of all Americans, beginning about making sure we are doing what struggle. with the original Americans. is right for those tribes and making I commend and thank our colleague When we talk about the Americas, we sure that they get that formal recogni- from Virginia (Mr. WITTMAN) for bring- sometimes talk as if the Americas tion because of many injustices that ing forth this bill. I also want to give began in the early 17th century, with have happened in the past. special thanks to former Congressman Jamestown, with Plymouth, and with Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to Jim Moran, who spent several years in the subsequent colonization of the East support H.R. 984. And I believe with the this body championing this legislation Coast. But, in fact, there were millions passage out of the House—and I urge and tirelessly working toward its of Native Americans here long before my colleagues in the Senate to do like- goals. European colonization. They had rich wise—today will be a very proud day Mr. Speaker, it is time to finally put culture. They had incredible artistic for our Nation in coming about and this issue to rest and correct a histor- expression. They had a way of life. It recognizing these Virginia first-con- ical injustice by extending Federal rec- was disrupted by European coloniza- tact tribes that has been long overdue. ognition to these six Virginia tribes. I tion. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance urge all of my colleagues to join me As if some genocidal policies of the of my time. and support this bill. 18th and 19th century weren’t bad Mr. SCOTT of Virginia. Mr. Speaker, I rise Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of enough in terms of their terrible im- in support of H.R. 984, the Thomasina E. Jor- my time. pact on this population, the racism my dan Indian Tribes of Virginia Federal Recogni- Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I re- friend from Florida described that went tion Act and I want to thank my fellow Vir- serve the balance of my time. on shamefully in the Commonwealth of ginian, Congressman ROB WITTMAN for intro- Mr. SOTO. Mr. Speaker, I yield such Virginia in the early 20th century deep- ducing this bill, and the gentleman from Utah, time as he may consume to the gen- ly compounded the problem by denying Chairman Bishop and the gentleman from Ari- tleman from Virginia (Mr. MCEACHIN). the identity of individuals and commu- zona, Ranking Member GRIJALVA, for their Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank nities as Native American so that the leadership and cooperation in bringing the bill Congressman SOTO for yielding. I also battle for them to have their rights re- to the floor. want to thank the gentleman from Vir- stored that my good friend, Mr. WITT- Four hundred ten years ago, the first ginia (Mr. WITTMAN), my friend and MAN, is trying to right today was made English settlers founded Jamestown, Virginia. colleague, for bringing this legislation so much more difficult and complex. The founding of Jamestown represented a first forward. step in the creation of our great Republic, and I rise, 410 years after the first b 1445 the success of this colony is owed to the help English settlers landed in what became If I destroy your identity papers, I of the indigenous people of Virginia. Jamestown, Virginia, to finally grant destroy your ability to prove who you With this assistance, the Jamestown colony Federal recognition to some of the Na- are. That is the dilemma and that is weathered a difficult first few years in the New tive American tribes who met those the catch-22 in which we find ourselves World before expanding, with English colonists early settlers. Today, with the passage today. pushing further inland. The same Native of H.R. 984, we are recognizing the This is a matter of simple justice. Americans who had helped those first settlers rightful status of Virginia tribes in our This is a matter of Congress righting a were pushed from their land without com- national history. wrong. It is a proud moment to stand pensation. Treaties, many of which precede It is largely a historical accident shoulder to shoulder, Republican and our own constitution, were made in an effort to that the tribes of Virginia are not rec- Democrat from Virginia, to want to compensate Virginia’s Native Americans. Un- ognized. The six tribes have treaties right this wrong. And I know we are fortunately, as history has repeatedly shown, that predate the United States, but be- joined by all of our colleagues and these treaties were not often honored. cause of the systematic destruction of former colleagues, including our friend Like many other Native Americans, and their records, they have been denied Jim Moran for his great leadership in many other groups who were not white, and Federal recognition for the services this matter. despite their contributions to the founding of that come along with it. We are fixing So I am proud to support the efforts our nation, Virginia’s Indian Tribes were this injustice today by passing H.R. of my colleague. I urge all Members of pushed to the fringes of society. They were 984. the House to support this legislation, deprived of their land, prevented from getting Federal recognition will provide what and let’s turn a page in history the an education, and denied a role in our society. the government has long denied: legal right way. Virginia’s Native Americans were denied their

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.050 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4259 very fundamental human rights and the very MODERNIZING GOVERNMENT fund’’) for necessary expenses described in freedoms and liberties enshrined in our Con- TECHNOLOGY ACT OF 2017 paragraph (3). (2) SOURCE OF FUNDS.—The following stitution. Mr. HURD. Mr. Speaker, I move to This bill will finally grant federal recognition amounts may be deposited into an IT work- suspend the rules and pass the bill ing capital fund: to the Chickahominy Tribe, the Eastern Chick- (H.R. 2227) to modernize Government (A) Reprogramming and transfer of funds ahominy Tribe, the Upper Mattaponi Tribe, the information technology, and for other made available in appropriations Acts subse- Rappahannock Tribe, the Monacan Indian Na- purposes, as amended. quent to the date of the enactment of this tion, and the Nansemond Tribe. The Clerk read the title of the bill. Act, including transfer of any funds for the Federal recognition of Virginia’s Indian The text of the bill is as follows: operation and maintenance of legacy infor- Tribes will promote tribal economic develop- mation technology systems, in compliance H.R. 2227 ment and allow Virginia’s tribes to flourish cul- with any applicable reprogramming law or turally. Federal recognition, a process that has Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- guidelines of the Committees on Appropria- resentatives of the United States of America in been ongoing for these tribes for over 30 tions of the House of Representatives and Congress assembled, the Senate. years, will lead to a bright future for a whole SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (B) Amounts made available to the IT new generation of tribe members. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Modernizing working capital fund through discretionary Mr. Speaker, I was a member of the Virginia Government Technology Act of 2017’’ or the appropriations made available subsequent to General Assembly in 1983 when many of ‘‘MGT Act’’. the date of the enactment of this Act. these tribes first gained formal recognition SEC. 2. FINDINGS; PURPOSES. (3) USE OF FUNDS.—An IT working capital from the Commonwealth of Virginia, and I am (a) FINDINGS.—The Congress finds the fol- fund established under paragraph (1) may be proud to be here today supporting federal rec- lowing: used, subject to the availability of appro- ognition for these tribes. (1) The Federal Government spends nearly priations, only for the following: The time has come for this Congress to act, 75 percent of its annual information tech- (A) To improve, retire, or replace existing and I therefore urge my colleagues to support nology funding on operating and maintain- information technology systems in the covered agency to enhance cybersecurity and to this bill. ing existing legacy information technology systems. These systems can pose operational improve efficiency and effectiveness. Mr. MCEACHIN. Mr. Speaker, earlier today, risks, including rising costs and inability to (B) To transition legacy information tech- I spoke during debate on H.R. 984, the meet mission requirements. These systems nology systems at the covered agency to Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia also pose security risks, including the inabil- cloud computing and other innovative plat- Federal Recognition Act of 2017. ity to use current security best practices, forms and technologies, including those serv- I rise, 410 years after the first English set- such as data encryption and multi-factor au- ing more than one covered agency with com- tlers landed in what became Jamestown, Vir- thentication, making these systems particu- mon requirements. ginia, to finally grant federal recognition to larly vulnerable to malicious cyber activity. (C) To assist and support covered agency some of the Native American tribes who met (2) In 2015, the Government Accountability efforts to provide adequate, risk-based, and Office (GAO) designated Improving the Man- cost-effective information technology capa- those early settlers. agement of IT Acquisitions and Operations bilities that address evolving threats to in- Today, with passage of H.R. 984, we are to its biannual High Risk List and identified formation security. recognizing the rightful status of Virginia’s as a particular concern the increasing level (D) To reimburse funds transferred to the tribes in our national history. of information technology spending on oper- covered agency from the Technology Mod- These six tribes have treaties that predate ations and maintenance, making less funding ernization Fund established under section 4, the United States but because of the systemic available for development or modernization. with the approval of the Chief Information destruction of their records, they have been The GAO also found the Government has Officer of the covered agency. denied federal recognition and the services spent billions on failed and poorly per- (4) EXISTING FUNDS.—An IT working capital forming information technology investments fund may not be used to supplant funds pro- that come along with it. due to a lack of effective oversight. We are fixing this injustice by passing H.R. vided for the operation and maintenance of (3) The Federal Government must mod- any system within an appropriation for the 984. ernize Federal IT systems to mitigate exist- covered agency at the time of establishment Federal recognition will provide what the ing operational and security risks. of the IT working capital fund. government has long denied—legal protec- (4) The efficiencies, cost savings, and (5) PRIORITIZATION OF FUNDS.—The head of tions and financial obligations. greater computing power offered by modern- each covered agency shall prioritize funds Federal recognition will provide financial as- ized solutions, such as cloud computing, within the IT working capital fund to be sistance for the tribes’ social services, health have the potential to— used initially for cost savings activities ap- care and housing needs, educational opportu- (A) eliminate inappropriate duplication proved by the Chief Information Officer of and reduce costs; the covered agency, in consultation with the nities, and repatriation of the remains of their (B) address the critical need for cybersecu- ancestors in a respectful manner. These op- Administrator of the Office of Electronic rity by design; and Government. The head of each covered agen- portunities will allow Virginia’s tribes to flourish (C) move the Federal Government into a cy may reprogram and transfer any amounts culturally and economically. These opportuni- broad, digital-services delivery model that saved as a direct result of such activities for ties will lead to a better, brighter future for the will transform the ability of the Federal deposit into the applicable IT working cap- next generation. Government to meet mission requirements ital fund, consistent with paragraph (2)(A). and deliver services to the American people. Federal recognition is an issue I have cared (6) RETURN OF FUNDS.—Any funds deposited about deeply since my time in the Virginia (b) PURPOSES.—The purposes of this Act into an IT working capital fund shall be are the following: available for obligation for three years after General Assembly and I am a proud cospon- (1) Assist the Federal Government in mod- sor this legislation. the last day of the fiscal year in which such ernizing Federal information technology to funds were deposited. We have waited too long to recognize Vir- mitigate current operational and security (7) AGENCY CIO RESPONSIBILITIES.—In evalu- ginia’s tribes. I urge my colleagues to support risks. ating projects to be funded from the IT (2) Incentivize cost savings in Federal in- passage. working capital fund, the Chief Information formation technology through moderniza- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Officer of the covered agency shall consider, tion. question is on the motion offered by to the extent applicable, guidance issued (3) Accelerate the acquisition and deploy- the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. pursuant to section 4(a)(1) to evaluate appli- ment of modernized information technology WITTMAN) that the House suspend the cations for funding from the Technology solutions, such as cloud computing, by ad- Modernization Fund established under that rules and pass the bill, H.R. 984. dressing impediments in the areas of fund- section that include factors such as a strong The question was taken. ing, development, and acquisition practices. business case, technical design, procurement The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the SEC. 3. ESTABLISHMENT OF AGENCY INFORMA- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being strategy (including adequate use of incre- TION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS MOD- mental software development practices), and ERNIZATION AND WORKING CAP- in the affirmative, the ayes have it. program management. Mr. WALKER. Mr. Speaker, on that I ITAL FUNDS. demand the yeas and nays. (a) INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYSTEM MOD- (b) REPORTING REQUIREMENT.— The yeas and nays were ordered. ERNIZATION AND WORKING CAPITAL FUNDS.— (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than one year (1) ESTABLISHMENT.—The head of a covered after the date of the enactment of this Act, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- agency may establish within such agency an and every six months thereafter, the head of ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- information technology system moderniza- each covered agency shall submit to the Di- ceedings on this motion will be post- tion and working capital fund (in this sec- rector the following, with respect to the IT poned. tion referred to as the ‘‘IT working capital working capital fund for the covered agency:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.019 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4260 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 (A) A list of each information technology sequent to the date of the enactment of this mentwide impact, and having a high prob- investment funded with estimated cost and Act for information technology activities, ability of success based on factors such as a completion date for each such investment. consistent with any applicable reprogram- strong business case, technical design, pro- (B) A summary by fiscal year of obliga- ming law or guidelines of the Committees on curement strategy (including adequate use of tions, expenditures, and unused balances. Appropriations of the House of Representa- incremental software development prac- (2) PUBLIC AVAILABILITY.—The Director tives and the Senate. An obligation to make tices), and program management. shall make the information submitted under a payment under a written agreement de- (B) Make recommendations to the Com- paragraph (1) publicly available on a website. scribed in paragraph (6) in a fiscal year after missioner to assist agencies in the further (c) COVERED AGENCY DEFINED.—In this sec- the date of the enactment of this Act shall development and refinement of select sub- tion, the term ‘‘covered agency’’ means each be recorded pursuant to section 1501 of title mitted modernization proposals, based on an agency listed in section 901(b) of title 31, 31, United States Code, in the fiscal year in initial evaluation performed with the assist- United States Code. which the payment is due. ance of the Commissioner. SEC. 4. ESTABLISHMENT OF TECHNOLOGY MOD- (C) PRICES FIXED BY COMMISSIONER.—The (C) Review and prioritize, with the assist- ERNIZATION FUND AND BOARD. Commissioner, in consultation with the Di- ance of the Commissioner and the Director, (a) TECHNOLOGY MODERNIZATION FUND.— rector, shall establish amounts to be paid by modernization proposals based on criteria es- (1) ESTABLISHMENT.—There is established an agency and terms of repayment for use of tablished pursuant to subparagraph (A). in the Treasury a Technology Modernization a product or service developed under para- (D) Identify, with the assistance of the Fund (in this section referred to as the graph (3)(B), including any services or work Commissioner, opportunities to improve or ‘‘Fund’’) for technology-related activities, to performed in support of such development replace multiple information technology sys- improve information technology, to enhance under paragraph (3)(C), at levels sufficient to tems with a smaller number of information cybersecurity across the Federal Govern- ensure the solvency of the Fund, including technology systems common to multiple ment, and to be administered in accordance operating expenses. Before making any agencies. with guidance issued by the Director. changes to the established amounts and (E) Recommend the funding of moderniza- (2) ADMINISTRATION OF FUND.—The Commis- terms of repayment, the Commissioner shall tion projects, in accordance with the uses de- sioner of the Technology Transformation conduct a review and obtain approval from scribed in subsection (a)(3), to the Commis- Service of the General Services Administra- the Director. sioner. tion, in consultation with the Chief Informa- (D) FAILURE TO MAKE TIMELY REIMBURSE- (F) Monitor, in consultation with the Com- tion Officers Council and with the approval MENT.—The Commissioner may obtain reim- missioner, progress and performance in exe- of the Director, shall administer the Fund in bursement by the issuance of transfer and cuting approved projects and, if necessary, accordance with this subsection. counterwarrants, or other lawful transfer recommend the suspension or termination of (3) USE OF FUNDS.—The Commissioner documents, supported by itemized bills, if funding for projects based on factors such as shall, in accordance with the recommenda- payment is not made by an agency— failure to meet the terms of a written agree- tions of the Technology Modernization Board (i) within 90 days after the expiration of a ment described in subsection (a)(6). established under subsection (b), use repayment period described in a written (G) Monitor operating costs of the Fund. amounts in the Fund for the following pur- agreement described in paragraph (6); or (3) MEMBERSHIP.—The Board shall consist poses: (ii) within 45 days after the expiration of of eight voting members. (A) To transfer such amounts, to remain the time period to make a payment under a (4) CHAIR.—The Chair of the Board shall be available until expended, to the head of an payment schedule for a product or service the Administrator of the Office of Electronic agency to improve, retire, or replace existing developed under paragraph (3)(B). Government. Federal information technology systems to (6) WRITTEN AGREEMENT.— (5) PERMANENT MEMBERS.—The permanent enhance cybersecurity and improve effi- (A) IN GENERAL.—Before the transfer of members of the Board shall be the following: ciency and effectiveness. funds to an agency under paragraph (3)(A), (A) The Administrator of the Office of (B) For the development, operation, and the Commissioner (in consultation with the Electronic Government. procurement of information technology Director) and the head of the requisitioning (B) A senior official from the General Serv- products, services, and acquisition vehicles agency shall enter into a written agreement ices Administration having technical exper- for use by agencies to improve Government- documenting the purpose for which the funds tise in information technology development, wide efficiency and cybersecurity in accord- will be used and the terms of repayment, appointed by the Administrator of General ance with the requirements of such agencies. which may not exceed five years unless ap- Services, with the approval of the Director. (C) To provide services or work performed proved by the Director. An agreement made (6) ADDITIONAL MEMBERS OF THE BOARD.— in support of the activities described under pursuant to this subparagraph shall be re- (A) APPOINTMENT.—The other members of subparagraph (A) or (B). corded as an obligation as provided in para- the Board shall be appointed as follows: (4) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS; graph (5)(B). (i) One employee of the National Protec- CREDITS; AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS.— (B) REQUIREMENT FOR USE OF INCREMENTAL tion and Programs Directorate of the De- (A) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— DEVELOPMENT PRACTICES.—For any funds partment of Homeland Security, appointed There is authorized to be appropriated to the transferred to an agency under paragraph by the Secretary of Homeland Security. Fund $250,000,000 for each of fiscal years 2018 (3)(A), in the absence of compelling cir- (ii) One employee of the Department of De- and 2019. cumstances documented by the Commis- fense, appointed by the Secretary of Defense. (B) CREDITS.—In addition to any funds oth- sioner at the time of transfer, such funds (iii) Four Federal employees primarily erwise appropriated, the Fund shall be cred- shall be transferred only on an incremental having technical expertise in information ited with all reimbursements, advances, or basis, tied to metric-based development technology development, financial manage- refunds or recoveries relating to information milestones achieved by the agency, to be de- ment, cybersecurity and privacy, and acqui- technology or services provided through the scribed in a written agreement required sition, appointed by the Director. Fund. under subparagraph (A). (B) TERM.—Each member of the Board de- (C) AVAILABILITY OF FUNDS.—Amounts de- (7) REPORTING REQUIREMENT.—Not later scribed in paragraph (A) shall serve a term of posited, credited, or otherwise made avail- than six months after the date of the enact- one year, which shall be renewable up to able to the Fund shall be available, as pro- ment of this Act, the Director shall publish three times, at the discretion of the appoint- vided in appropriations Acts, until expended and maintain a list of each project funded by ing Secretary or Director, as applicable. for the purposes described in paragraph (3). the Fund on a public website, to be updated (7) PROHIBITION ON COMPENSATION.—Mem- (5) REIMBURSEMENT.— not less than quarterly, that includes a de- bers of the Board may not receive additional (A) PAYMENT BY AGENCY.—For a product or scription of the project, project status (in- pay, allowances, or benefits by reason of service developed under paragraph (3)(B), including any schedule delay and cost over- their service on the Board. cluding any services or work performed in runs), and financial expenditure data related (8) STAFF.—Upon request of the Chair of support of such development under para- to the project. the Board, the Director and the Adminis- graph (3)(C), the head of an agency that uses (b) TECHNOLOGY MODERNIZATION BOARD.— trator of General Services may detail, on a such product or service shall pay an amount (1) ESTABLISHMENT.—There is established a nonreimbursable basis, any of the personnel fixed by the Commissioner in accordance Technology Modernization Board (in this of the Office of Management and Budget or with this paragraph. section referred to as the ‘‘Board’’) to evalu- the General Services Administration (as the (B) REIMBURSEMENT BY AGENCY.—The head ate proposals submitted by agencies for fund- case may be) to the Board to assist the of an agency shall reimburse the Fund for ing authorized under the Fund. Board in carrying out its functions under any transfer made under paragraph (3)(A), (2) RESPONSIBILITIES.—The responsibilities this Act. including any services or work performed in of the Board are the following: (c) RESPONSIBILITIES OF COMMISSIONER.— support of such transfer under paragraph (A) Provide input to the Director for the (1) IN GENERAL.—In addition to the respon- (3)(C), in accordance with the terms estab- development of processes for agencies to sub- sibilities described in subsection (a), the lished in a written agreement described in mit modernization proposals to the Board Commissioner shall support the activities of paragraph (6). Notwithstanding any other and to establish the criteria by which such the Board and provide technical support to, provision of law, an agency may make a re- proposals are evaluated, which shall include and, with the concurrence of the Director, imbursement required by this subparagraph addressing the greatest security and oper- oversight of, agencies that receive transfers from any appropriation made available sub- ational risks, having the greatest Govern- from the Fund.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:22 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.015 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4261 (2) RESPONSIBILITIES.—The responsibilities eral Government, as we saw with the Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD of the Commissioner are the following: devastating OPM data breach, which letters of support from a number of in- (A) Provide direct technical support in the impacted over 20 million people. dustry and trade groups in support of form of personnel services or otherwise to As we see cybersecurity attacks on this bill. agencies transferred amounts under sub- PROFESSIONAL SERVICES COUNCIL, section (a)(3)(A) and for products, services, the rise across the globe, it is impera- Arlington, VA, April 27, 2017. and acquisition vehicles funded under sub- tive that we modernize and protect our Hon. JERRY MORAN, section (a)(3)(B). information technology systems. The U.S. Senator, Washington, DC. (B) Assist the Board with the evaluation, American people deserve better from Hon. WILL HURD, prioritization, and development of agency their government, especially on an Chairman, Committee on Oversight and Govern- modernization proposals. issue that is completely solvable. Our ment Reform, Subcommittee on Information (C) Perform regular project oversight and government needs to be able to intro- Technology, Washington, DC. monitoring of approved agency moderniza- duce cutting-edge technology into Hon. TOM UDALL, tion projects, in consultation with the Board U.S. Senator, Washington, DC. and the Director, to increase the likelihood their networks to improve operational Hon. GERRY CONNOLLY, of successful implementation and reduce efficiency and decrease operational Ranking Member, Committee on Oversight and waste. cost. Government Reform, Subcommittee on Gov- (D) Provide the Director with information This bipartisan IT reform package is ernment Operations, Washington, DC. necessary to meet the requirements of sub- designed to reduce wasteful IT spend- section (a)(7). ing and strengthen information secu- DEAR SENATORS MORAN AND UDALL, CHAIR- (d) AGENCY DEFINED.—In this section, the rity by accelerating the Federal Gov- MAN HURD AND RANKING MEMBER CONNOLLY: term ‘‘agency’’ has the meaning given that ernment’s transition to modern tech- On behalf of the over 400 member companies term in section 551 of title 5, United States of the Professional Services Council (PSC), I Code. nology, like cloud computing. This leg- write to convey our association’s strong sup- SEC. 5. DEFINITIONS. islation is an innovative solution and a port for your legislation, the Modernizing In this Act: tremendous step forward in strength- Government Technology Act of 2017 (the (1) CLOUD COMPUTING.—The term ‘‘cloud ening our digital infrastructure. ‘‘MGT Act’’), and to thank you for your con- computing’’ has the meaning given that This bill passed the House on voice tinued leadership to advance policies that term by the National Institute of Standards vote last year and passed out of the will upgrade the government’s legacy IT sys- and Technology in NIST Special Publication House Oversight and Government Re- tems. 800–145 and any amendatory or superseding form Committee by voice this year. The MGT Act would establish a critical document thereto. Unfortunately, we ran out of time on source of dependable funding for federal (2) COMMISSIONER.—The term ‘‘Commis- this bill last Congress with the Senate, agencies to invest in IT system moderniza- sioner’’ means the Commissioner of the tion, incentivize agencies to utilize the funds Technology Transformation Service of the but we have an opportunity to act this year with an improved bill. for agency priorities, and accelerate the General Services Administration. transition to the cloud. (3) DIRECTOR.—The term ‘‘Director’’ means H.R. 2227 authorizes two types of the Director of the Office of Management funds to modernize legacy IT and PSC supports the Act because we believe and Budget. incentivize IT savings in Federal agen- the bill will help make government more ef- (4) INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY.—The term fective and its networks more secure, while cies. The bill authorizes funds within reducing overall costs. Enactment would be ‘‘information technology’’ has the meaning individual CFO Act agencies, and it au- given that term in section 3502 of title 44, a much-needed and critical step to begin ad- United States Code. thorizes a centralized fund located dressing the immense challenges associated (5) LEGACY INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SYS- within Treasury and overseen by OMB. with upgrading federal information tech- TEM.—The term ‘‘legacy information tech- The two funds will incentivize IT sav- nology systems and limiting cybersecurity nology system’’ means an outdated or obso- ings and reward cost-sensitive and re- vulnerabilities inherent in the government’s lete system of information technology. sponsible chief information officers. outdated computer systems. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Under MGT, savings obtained by Fed- PSC looks forward to working with you to ant to the rule, the gentleman from eral agencies, by doing things like see this legislation enacted. Thank you for Texas (Mr. HURD) and the gentleman streamlining IT systems, replacing leg- your leadership and attention to this important issue. If you or your colleagues have from Virginia (Mr. CONNOLLY) each will acy products, and transitioning to cloud computing, can be placed in a any questions or need additional informa- control 20 minutes. tion, please do not hesitate to reach out to The Chair recognizes the gentleman working capital fund that can be me. from Texas. accessed for up to 3 years for further Yours Respectfully, GENERAL LEAVE modernization efforts. DAVID J. BERTEAU, Mr. HURD. Mr. Speaker, I ask unani- This approach eliminates the tradi- President and CEO. mous consent that all Members may tional use-it-or-lose-it approach that have 5 legislative days in which to re- has plagued government technology for IT ALLIANCE vise and extend their remarks and in- decades. This approach to technology FOR PUBLIC SECTOR, clude extraneous material on the bill investments will transform govern- Washington, DC, April 28, 2017. under consideration. ment technology by keeping our infor- Re The Modernizing Government Technology The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there mation and digital infrastructure se- Act of 2017 (MGT Act). objection to the request of the gen- cure from cyber attacks while saving Hon. WILL HURD, tleman from Texas? billions of taxpayer dollars. Chairman, Subcommittee on Information Tech- There was no objection. This important bill has enjoyed wide- nology, Committee on Oversight and Gov- Mr. HURD. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- spread support from colleagues in the ernment Reform, House of Representatives, Washington, DC. House and the Senate. self such time as I may consume. Hon. ROBIN KELLY, I rise today in support of my bill, Mr. Speaker, I thank the ranking Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Information H.R. 2227, the Modernizing Government member, the gentlewoman from Illi- Technology, Committee on Oversight and Technology Act, or the MGT Act. nois (Ms. KELLY), my friend, for her Government Reform, House of Representa- Each year, the Federal Government support on this. I thank the gentleman tives, Washington, DC. spends over $80 billion a year on infor- from the Commonwealth of Virginia DEAR CHAIRMAN HURD AND RANKING MEM- mation technology, with nearly 75 per- (Mr. CONNOLLY) for all he has done. I BER KELLY: On behalf of the member compa- cent of that directed just towards oper- especially thank Chairman CHAFFETZ nies of the Information Technology Alliance ating and maintaining existing IT sys- and Ranking Member CUMMINGS for for Public Sector (ITAPS), I am writing to tems. Couple this with innovation and their support. express our strong support for the Modern- management strategies that are dec- The majority leader, KEVIN MCCAR- izing Government Technology (MGT) Act of 2017. We appreciate all the time, effort, and ades behind the private sector when it THY, and the minority whip, STENY commitment you have dedicated to reform- comes to IT, and the increasing cost of HOYER, have been vital to the success ing how the federal government funds and in- maintaining these aging and insecure of getting this bill moving forward. vests in information technology (IT). This systems, this is unsustainable. I thank all of the other Members as bipartisan, bicameral legislation would en- These systems pose increasing oper- well who have provided support and able new means to fund IT solutions, includ- ational and security risks for the Fed- leadership for the MGT Act. ing for IT modernization efforts, and provide

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:08 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.015 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4262 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 funding availability to permit government tion enable the adoption of the most secure, the Federal government faces in providing IT to better keep pace with innovation. We cutting-edge commercial technologies that better services for its citizens. commend your staffs for collaborating and the private sector has long adopted. According to the Government Account- working with ITAPS and our members. The commitment of both Republican and ability Office, the Federal government The time is ripe to transform the way the Democrat members in both the House and spends more than 75 percent of its IT budget federal government acquires IT, and this bi- the Senate on the MGT Act and previous on operations and maintenance, rather than partisan legislation is a substantial step to- versions of the legislation represents an ac- on expenditures for new technologies. This ward that transformation. The federal gov- knowledgment that Congress must act to im- limits the ability of the government to pro- ernment today spends about $60 billion dol- prove and secure federal IT. This bill gives vide innovative and efficient services to citi- lars annually sustaining their existing IT the federal government the chance to pro- zens and it puts federal IT infrastructure at and their funding streams allow them to ei- vide better constituent services that citizens risk. ther continue to sustain those systems or have grown to expect and deserve. The MGT Act will enable agency officials modernize, but they do not have the funding Again, we applaud the introduction of the to acquire and deploy new technologies in ways that will help them provide better serv- to do both at the same time. The MGT Act MGT Act and urge Congress to act this year ices and cost savings to citizens in a more se- creates the necessary new options for agen- to pass the legislation. cure fashion. cies to be able to sustain what is necessary Sincerely, for their mission, while investing in modern- We want to thank you and your staffs for STEVE BLOCK, your tireless work and active engagement izing and transforming IT capabilities in the AWS Public Policy. federal government for the digital era. with industry on this bill. CA Technologies Again, thank you for the engagement you looks forward to continuing to work with BROCADE, Members of the Committees and with House and your staff afforded ITAPS and our mem- April 27, 2017. bers. We look forward to continuing to work leadership as this bill moves forward in the Re Modernizing Government Technology Act legislative process. with you further as the bill advances of 2017. through the legislative process. With warmest regards, Sincerely, Hon. JASON CHAFFETZ, BRENDAN PETER, Chairman, Committee on Oversight and Govern- Vice President, Global Government Relations. A.R. ‘‘TREY’’ HODGKINS, III, CAE, Senior Vice President, Public Sector. ment Reform, House of Representatives. Hon.WILL HURD, [From Ian J. Rayder, Government Affairs, Adobe applauds Congressman Will Hurd Chairman, Subcommittee on Information Tech- Cisco] (Texas) for reintroducing the Modernizing nology, Committee on Oversight and Gov- Cisco supports the important goals of the Government Technology Act, H.R. 2227, and ernment Reform, House of Representatives. Modernizing Government Technology Act of urges Congress to move quickly to enact this Hon. ELIJAH CUMMINGS, 2017, which was introduced with bipartisan important piece of legislation. Modernizing Ranking Member, Committee on Oversight and support in both the House and the Senate. If the federal IT infrastructure is crucial to en- Government Reform, House of Representa- passed, the bill will accelerate a pivot away suring a stronger cyber security foundation. tives. from outmoded legacy systems to modern- The federal government on average spends Hon. ROBIN KELLY, ized solutions, which should cut costs, im- nearly 80 percent of its IT budget on serv- Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Information prove security and boost operational effi- icing and maintaining legacy IT systems, Technology, Committee on Oversight and ciency. The MGTA can help the federal gov- drowning out investments in newer tech- Government Reform, House of Representa- ernment change the status quo where nearly nologies that often deliver better, more se- tives. 80% of IT spending is used to maintain aging, cure and less costly services to citizens.— DEAR CHAIRMAN CHAFFETZ, CHAIRMAN insecure, and expensive legacy federal IT Adobe VP & Public Sector Chief Technology HURD, RANKING MEMBER CUMMINGS AND systems. We thank Information Technology Officer John Landwehr RANKING MEMBER KELLY: On behalf of Bro- Subcommittee Chairman Hurd, Ranking cade, I am writing in support of the Modern- Member Kelly, Government Operations Sub- committee Ranking Member Connolly, and AMAZON WEB SERVICES, izing Government Technology Act of 2017. Herndon, VA, April 28, 2017. This bipartisan bill is an important step for- Oversight and Government Reform Chairman Re Support for H.R. 2227, the Modernizing ward to accelerate the modernization of fed- Chaffetz for their leadership on this impor- Government Technology Act. eral IT networks. The Modernizing Govern- tant issue. Hon. WILL HURD, ment Technology Act will provide federal COMPUWARE, House of Representatives, agencies with critical and flexible financing MAY 1, 2017. Washington, DC. mechanisms to help break the cycle of fed- Hon. WILL HURD, Hon. ROBIN KELLY, eral IT investment in outdated technologies. Washington, DC. House of Representatives, By facilitating federal agency IT moderniza- CONGRESSMAN HURD: Compuware, the Washington, DC. tion, the bills will help agencies improve IT effectiveness, bolster security, reduce main- world’s leading mainframe-dedicated soft- Hon. GERRY CONNOLLY, ware company, is pleased to see the intro- House of Representatives, tenance spending and better serve citizens, warfighters and veterans. duction of the Modernizing Government Washington, DC. Technology Act of 2017. As you know, we are Hon. JERRY MORAN, As an active partner in federal agency network modernization, Brocade appreciates headquartered in Detroit, Michigan with 99% U.S. Senate, of our development team onsite. Our innova- your leadership in moving this bill forward Washington, DC. tive mainframe software assist the world’s this year. Brocade is committed to working Hon. TOM UDALL, largest banks, insurance companies and re- with other stakeholders to achieve the objec- U.S. Senate, tail, transportation and government organi- tives of the Modernizing Government Tech- Washington, DC. zations by enabling them to deliver main- nology Act to help agencies transition to DEAR CONGRESSMAN HURD, CONGRESSWOMAN frame-supported products and services more modern networks that leverage open stand- KELLY, CONGRESSMAN CONNOLLY, SENATOR quickly, cost-effectively and with a higher ards, multivendor networks, and software- UDALL, AND SENATOR MORAN: On behalf of level of quality. our customers, we applaud your leadership based technologies to achieve their mission. A new generation of Federal IT leaders will and commitment to transforming federal in- Sincerely, soon assume responsibility for guiding the formation technology (IT) through the Mod- JEFF RANGEL, agencies through modernization efforts that ernizing Government Technology Act (MGT Senior Director, Corporate Affairs. meet citizens’ increasingly tech-centric de- Act), H.R. 2227. At Amazon Web Services, we mands. Having forged their careers in a pe- believe in putting our customers first by giv- CA TECHNOLOGIES, riod of intensive technological innovation, ing them the right tools to enable success, May 1, 2017. these leaders are by and large well-prepared and similarly this bipartisan and bicameral Hon. WILL HURD, to do so and the MGT Act provides a viable legislation gives our customers the funding Chairman, Subcommittee on Information Tech- funding path to support modernization ef- mechanisms they need to move to more mod- nology, Committee on Oversight and Gov- forts. ern and secure federal IT systems and serv- ernment Reform, House of Representatives, We are encouraged that the MGT Act sug- ices. Washington, DC. gests that an IT modernization plan should The MGT Act allows agencies to modernize Hon. GERALD CONNOLLY, pair the right applications with the right aging and vulnerable systems and migrate to Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Government platforms. One of the major platforms being innovative technologies such as commercial Operations, Committee on Oversight and modernized is the mainframe. The reality is, cloud computing. By giving agencies more Government Reform, House of Representa- a large percentage of the mission-critical ap- control over IT investments, the bill creates tives, Washington, DC. plications and systems that run on the main- more strategic, efficient, and common-sense DEAR CHAIRMAN HURD AND RANKING MEM- frame today will remain there for decades to incentives for agency buyers without com- BER CONNOLLY: I am writing to express our come. Organizations and agencies should promising transparency and oversight. Flexi- support for H.R. 2227, the Modernizing Gov- build on what works well and continue to le- ble funding mechanisms like the agency ernment Technology Act of 2017 (MGT Act). verage the decades of investment in business working capital funds in this piece of legisla- This Act will help address a vital challenge rules and intellectual property.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.024 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4263 Mainframe longevity is no accident. No centives and wherewithal of federal agencies Thank you again for introducing this much other computing platform comes close to de- and organizations to invest prudently in IT, needed legislation. livering the performance, scalability, reli- thereby saving money and increasing the Sincerely, ability and security of the post-modern performance of their IT systems. VENKATAPATHI PUVVADA, mainframe. None offers a lower marginal Intel applauds your bi-partisan, bi-cameral President, Federal Systems. cost. Nor has any other platform come close effort aimed at making our government to demonstrating a similar ability to adapt work better for all citizens by providing the LEVEL 3 STATEMENT ON MGT ACT OF 2017 to the changes in the world around it decade means to enable it to keep pace with IT in- after decade. The correct course of action is novation. Today, Representatives Will Hurd (R–TX), to diligently and smartly leverage a post- Sincerely, Robin Kelly (D–IL) and Gerry Connolly (D– modern mainframe for what it does best. PETER PITSCH, VA), and Senators Jerry Moran (R–KS) and Thank you for the opportunity to submit Executive Director, Tom Udall (D–NM), introduced the Modern- comments and we look forward to providing Federal Relations. izing Government Technology Act of 2017 to additional information for the Committee Associate General provide federal agencies additional resources Report. Compuware is always available to Counsel, Intel Cor- and flexibility to modernize outdated infor- testify. poration. mation technology systems. Below is a state- Sincerely, ment from Level 3 Communications: CHRIS O’MALLEY, MICROSOFT, ‘‘Level 3 Communications applauds Rep- CEO, Compuware. Redmond, WA, May 2, 2017. resentatives Hurd, Kelly and Connolly, and Rep. WILL HURD, Senators Moran and Udall, for championing CSRA, Chairman, Subcommittee on Information Tech- federal IT reform and their commitment to Falls Church, VA, April 28, 2017. nology, Committee on Oversight and Gov- maximizing the value of taxpayer dollars by Re the Modernizing Government Technology ernment Reform, House of Representatives, transforming how the government invests in Act of 2017. Washington, DC. technology. Level 3 stands ready to continue Hon. JASON CHAFFETZ, Rep. ROBIN KELLY, our collaboration with federal agencies to Chairman, Committee on Oversight and Govern- Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Information transform their networks to improve effi- ment Reform. Technology, Committee on Oversight and ciency, reduce costs and maximize security.’’ Government Reform, House of Representa- Hon. ELIJAH CUMMINGS, Mr. HURD. Mr. Speaker, I urge my Ranking Member, Committee on Oversight and tives, Washington, DC. DEAR CHAIRMAN HURD AND RANKING MEM- colleagues to support this bill, and I re- Government Reform. BER KELLY: On behalf of Microsoft Corpora- serve the balance of my time. Hon. WILL HURD, tion, I am writing to congratulate you on in- Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Chairman, Subcommittee on Information Tech- troduction of the Modernizing Government myself such time as I may consume. nology, Committee on Oversight and Gov- Technology Act of 2017 (H.R. 2227). Microsoft ernment Reform. fully understands the promise modern tech- I thank my friends, the gentleman Hon. ROBIN KELLY, nology holds for enabling more efficient and from Texas (Mr. HURD) and the gentle- Ranking Member, Subcommittee on Information effective results for taxpayers and supports woman from Illinois (Ms. KELLY), for Technology, Committee on Oversight and your efforts. We commend you for including their leadership in bringing this bill to Government Reform. in the bill a fund to support IT moderniza- the floor. CONGRESSIONAL LEADERS: On behalf of tion, as it’s critically needed by agencies Of course, I rise in support of the bill, CSRA, I write today to express my strong that need to improve their systems but are support for the Modernizing Government unable due to budget constraints. H.R. 2227, the Modernizing Government Technology Act (MGT Act), which is a shin- Microsoft also applauds you for working Technology Act of 2017. ing example of forward-looking leadership with the White House Office of American In- Mr. Speaker, over the past several from Congress to help move the government novation on this legislation. Having strong years, we have all witnessed the chaos into the 21st century. As one of the leading bipartisan, bicameral partners, combined and havoc that sophisticated cyber at- with Executive Branch support, dem- providers of next generation technology to tacks can, and do, wreak on our Nation the federal government, CSRA wants to part- onstrates your commitment to improve the ner in providing solutions that save taxpayer federal information technology procurement and around the world. dollars and facilitate a better customer expe- process. Just this past week, there was a mas- rience for our citizens. The MGT Act is a We look forward to working with you and sive ransomware attack that hit 200,000 crucial step forward in creating our shared your bipartisan colleagues in the House and victims in 150 countries, and those Senate as the bill moves through the legisla- future of innovation. numbers are expected to grow exponen- Investing in the transformation of aging IT tive process. infrastructure, as the MGT Act will do, will Sincerely, tially. This is just the latest in a string help protect networks currently vulnerable FREDERICK S. HUMPHRIES, JR., of high-profile attacks, including Sony, to cybersecurity threats and make govern- Corporate Vice President, Yahoo, the OPM data breach, and even ment more efficient and effective for the U.S. Government Affairs (USGA). efforts to influence our elections and American people. We know that investments those in Europe. like these make highest and best use of the UNISYS, These attacks jeopardize America’s taxpayer dollar, saving enormous sums of April 28, 2017. safety, privacy, and cost untold mil- money down the line. Innovation has long Hon. WILL HURD, fueled the American economy; technology House of Representatives, lions of dollars in the private sector can now make possible the achievement of Washington, DC. and public sector as well. These at- national priorities. Hon. ROBIN KELLY, tacks affect both the public and private I salute Congressman Will Hurd, Congress- House of Representatives, sector, and bad actors repeatedly tar- woman Robin Kelly, Senator Moran, Senator Washington, DC. get our Federal Government. Those at- Udall, and the entire bipartisan, bicameral DEAR REPRESENTATIVES HURD AND KELLY: tacks often succeed because Federal coalition who have brought us to this mo- On behalf of the Unisys Corporation, thank computer systems are so outdated that ment of opportunity. We urge the support of you for introducing the Modernizing Govern- they cannot implement network de- the entire Congress for this legislation, ment Technology Act of 2017 (MGT Act). which is a kick-start in creating a govern- Unisys strongly supports enactment of the fenses as basic as encryption. Some ment as dynamic and innovative as America MGT Act because it provides needed flexi- legacy systems go back a half a cen- itself. bility and funding resources to enable the tury. Sincerely, Federal Government to modernize its legacy The Federal Government spends LAWRENCE B. PRIOR. IT systems and leverage government-wide nearly $60 billion a year sustaining its resources to gain efficiencies. existing IT systems. When agencies are INTEL CORPORATION, As a global information technology com- Washington, DC, May 16, 2017. pany that provides leading edge security so- forced to spend nearly 80 percent of Hon. WILL HURD, lutions to the government and commercial that to maintain legacy computer sys- Washington, DC. markets, Unisys recognizes that one of the tems, they have fewer resources to DEAR CONGRESSMAN HURD: Intel Corpora- major challenges facing clients is how to modernize and reinvest. As a result, tion commends your leadership in enabling fund modernization investments while main- agencies cannot afford to invest in the the Federal Government to upgrade its leg- taining existing mission critical IT systems. modern technologies that other large acy IT Infrastructure through the Modern- The MGT Act addresses this challenge by au- enterprises need to survive. Many Fed- izing Government Technology Act of 2017. thorizing new modernization funding mecha- Your bill would enable the retirement, re- nisms for Federal agencies that will allow eral agencies do not use cloud com- placement, and modernization of legacy IT them to build in cyber security by design, ef- puting to help secure computer net- that is difficult to secure and expensive to fectively share government data, create works and improve our ability to de- maintain. This bill would strengthen the in- long-term savings and eliminate duplication. liver services to the American people.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.025 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4264 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 The MGT Act we are talking about It will not be a controversial bill. It I have been proud to work across the today and on which I am proud to be will not make the front page of the aisle with Majority Leader MCCARTHY, one of the lead Democratic cosponsors paper tomorrow. People will not be Chairman CHAFFETZ, Mr. HURD, and, of is a critical step to help improve the seized of this bill passing. But this bill course, my dear, dear friend from Vir- Federal Government’s IT systems. The may well have a very great con- ginia, my colleague in the Washington MGT Act of 2017 will help our cyber de- sequence to it and to the efficiency and metropolitan area, Representative fenders protect our most important effectiveness of our Federal Govern- CONNOLLY on our side. digital resources. ment. Representative KELLY, whom I just This bill marries two bills from the Last July, I outlined a series of re- mentioned, and Congressman TED LIEU previous Congress, both of which I was forms to renew America’s faith in their have also been champions of this effort, proud to be an original cosponsor of— government, which included modern- and I thank them for their input and the IT Modernization Act and the izing government technology. Not long their strong support as we worked to MOVE IT Act. The MGT Act estab- after, I introduced the Information bring it to the floor in a bipartisan lishes a clear role for both of these Technology Modernization Act to fashion. pieces of legislation to improve Federal achieve that goal; and, of course, Mr. Again, I want to say how pleased I IT systems. CONNOLLY was a cosponsor with me on am to work on these issues with all of I was an original cosponsor for Mi- that bill. my colleagues, but particularly with nority Whip STENY HOYER’s IT Mod- I am glad that this bill on the floor the majority leader, Mr. MCCARTHY, ernization Act, which created a revolv- today includes my legislation. It would my friend from California, and thank ing fund using $3 billion appropriations be a major step toward ensuring that him for his leadership. for Treasury to replace legacy systems. our government is using the latest I hope my colleagues will join me in I was pleased to join my friend, Ms. technology systems, is well protected supporting the Modernizing Govern- KELLY, the ranking member of the In- from cyber threats, and can serve the ment Technology Act, and I hope the formation Technology Subcommittee, American people more effectively. Trump administration will include in- and Mr. HURD, on the MOVE IT Act, b 1500 vestment to capitalize this new fund in which revived a proposal first discussed Mr. HURD came over to me on the their fiscal 2018 budget. during the consideration of the legisla- floor and we talked about our two Mr. HURD. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased tion FITARA, the Federal Information ideas. As the gentleman from Virginia to yield 1 minute to the gentleman Technology Acquisition Reform Act. has said, they were complementary, from California (Mr. MCCARTHY), the These two bills were different, but and I am pleased that we could work distinguished majority leader. complementary, and worked, ulti- together to put these bills together and Mr. MCCARTHY. Mr. Speaker, before mately, to join the two to create this that we now have agreement with the the minority whip departs, I want to act in front of us today, the MGT Act. Senate. We passed a bill through the thank him for his work on this. This That act lays the foundation for the fu- House. has really been a bipartisan effort, and ture of IT modernization funding and Last week’s major global cyber at- it is really putting the country first. reinvestment and investment by the tack was yet another reminder of how The gentleman is correct: This might Federal Government long overdue. The critical it is that our government’s not make headlines, but this will have act will authorize an upfront invest- technology systems are upgraded to a greater effect on our government ment to retire minimal large-scale leg- the latest and most secure technology. being more efficient, effective, and ac- acy systems and affect multiple agen- If any lesson was needed, we got it. countable. We thank him for his work cies. Americans count on government on it. This bipartisan, bicameral legisla- agencies to protect their personal data, Mr. Speaker, there are some things tion will provide mechanisms and and our security agencies rely on our we get used to hearing, but when you much-needed funding for agencies to government systems to safeguard clas- think about it, it is amazing just how speed up that slow process of moving sified and sensitive information. Unfor- much things have changed. from legacy IT systems to cutting- tunately, our government technology I hear a friend say that all of the edge, 21st century technologies. It systems are now far behind the latest photos he took on his phone automati- would also provide needed reporting re- technology and are in desperate need of cally updated to his cloud—not sur- quirements to ensure that agencies are upgrades. prising there. But how long ago was it acquiring modern technology and that I congratulate the gentlewoman from that we couldn’t even take pictures on we can measure that it is being done in Illinois (Ms. KELLY) for her work on our phone, much less have them saved a cost-effective way. It places an em- this effort. automatically on a cloud? phasis on following the practices of pri- What this legislation does is author- Nowadays, it is not uncommon to vate industry and moving toward cloud ize the creation of a technology mod- cash your checks online, manage your computing solutions. ernization fund to finance rapid up- accounts on Mint, pay individuals back The MGT Act language will allow grades of government technology sys- online. Many millennials don’t even agencies to reinvest those savings, as tems similar to funds that are avail- carry cash anymore. That is a revolu- my friend just indicated, and that is a able in the private sector so they can tion in money management that just commonsense proposal, but not one we move quickly and seize the best and happened in a matter of years. find commonly in the Federal Govern- latest technology available. It would So, Mr. Speaker, why in the world ment. prioritize the systems that are the would the Department of Defense use a Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to most vulnerable, and it would imple- 54-year-old system as a backup to send support the act, and I reserve the bal- ment best practices from the private and receive emergency messages for ance of my time. sector. In other words, those that are our nuclear forces, a 54-year-old system Mr. HURD. Mr. Speaker, I know the working least well will be the first ad- that relies on floppy disks? Why would gentleman from the Commonwealth of dressed. the master file of the public’s taxes at Virginia has a few more speakers, so I Once upgrades are completed, agen- the IRS run on a 1950s code? reserve the balance of my time. cies will pay back into the fund from Eighty percent of the $80 billion we Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield the savings achieved through greater spend each year on IT is used to main- 4 minutes to the gentleman from Mary- efficiency, i.e., a revolving fund, mak- tain legacy systems, to buy expensive land (Mr. HOYER), my friend, the distin- ing it possible then to finance addi- parts that nobody uses anymore for a guished whip on the Democratic side. tional projects in a way that is self- 54-year-old system we shouldn’t even Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank sustaining after the initial investment. have. Mr. HURD for his leadership on this All of this would be done in a way that We would expect more from the pri- issue. I am pleased to work with him is transparent and accountable. vate sector. We would expect mobile on it. Once this bill is enacted, we must cameras, cloud computing, online Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this take the next step and provide, of banking. Heck, we would even expect bill. course, that initial funding. to upgrade our phones and apps and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00038 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.054 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4265 technology on a rolling basis every sin- The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. These attacks will only grow more fre- gle week. Well, why should we expect ROGERS of Kentucky). The gentleman quent and more difficult to combat. less from the Federal Government? from Virginia has 111⁄2 minutes remain- The MGT Act is a major step in the I would say this is about more than ing. right direction. It will cut costs and expectations. We all saw what hap- Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I am enhance our security. It builds on prior pened over the weekend with the mas- happy to yield 51⁄2 minutes to the gen- work like Clinger-Cohen and FITARA, sive global cyber attack: hospitals shut tlewoman from Illinois (Ms. KELLY), and it gives agencies the flexibility down, transportation systems. This is a my good friend. needed to modernize vulnerable sys- government service issue. It is a gov- Ms. KELLY of Illinois. Mr. Speaker, I tems and develop cost savings for tax- ernment waste issue. It is a national rise today to support this common- payers. security issue. sense, bipartisan bill that updates our Under this bill, agencies can take the Now, government may never be like woefully outdated IT infrastructure. savings from upgrading their systems Silicon Valley, but it should not be I want to say thank you to my good and reinvest them into their working stuck in the age of ‘‘Mad Men.’’ That is friend and partner on the IT sub- capital fund for future IT moderniza- not only costly, it is dangerous. committee, Chairman HURD, for his tion. We are going to go from an out- WILL HURD, an individual that has leadership on this very important dated method of purchasing IT to one served his Nation in some of the most measure and to my colleagues who that empowers CIOs to make smart, dangerous parts of the world, an indi- worked so hard on this bill: Chairman strategic investments in innovative vidual who worked in the private sec- CHAFFETZ, Ranking Member CUMMINGS, technologies; and as an end result, our tor when it came to technology, an in- our House leadership stewards—Demo- data will be more secure and our gov- dividual who serves in this body and, I cratic Whip HOYER from the majority, ernment more efficient. will say this based upon everybody else Mr. MCCARTHY—and Mr. CONNOLLY of I am proud of this bill, and I am I have served, probably has the most Virginia for his energy and work in proud of the bipartisan work that made bipartisan approach of anyone I have dealing with this bill. I also want to it possible, proud of what we accom- ever seen serve in that position—he give a special thanks to all of the staff plished by working together on the IT doesn’t care about party. It is just as and a special shout-out to my staff: Subcommittee. the time when he worked in the CIA. Jay Cho and Zach Ostro. The MGT Act is a necessary compo- He cares about his country. He has seen The Modernizing Government Tech- nent to strengthening our cybersecu- the most deadly things happen, and, nology Act has come a long way from rity that saves taxpayers money. I urge through his technology company, he the early days when it was called my colleagues to support this bill. Mr. HURD. Mr. Speaker, I would like has seen that people fight wars new MOVE IT. It has been a tough and to inform my friend from the Common- ways. sometimes frustrating journey, but we So he took it upon himself—it is not wealth that I have no further speakers have made it, and we have a good bill the issue that people would campaign and am prepared to close. in front of us. upon, but it is an issue that he saw I reserve the balance of my time. Last year, the House passed this bill needed a solution. He worked with both Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield only to have it die in the Senate. De- sides of the aisle, and he said: Why myself such time as I may consume. spite these roadblocks, we kept work- can’t we modernize our own tech- In closing, I think this is an impor- ing because it is worth it. This bill will nology? tant piece in the information tech- The Veterans Administration was revolutionize and upgrade our outdated nology modernization effort that our created in 1921, and if somebody that IT fractured while bringing cost-saving committee and this body has under- was a veteran had a problem and a innovation and greater security to gov- taken for the last 5 or 6 years. One of claim, they would write it on a piece of ernment agencies. the key pieces of legislation under- paper. In 1921, on a warm day like In my years serving as the ranking girding today’s bill is the Federal In- today, we would have fans going to try member of the Oversight Committee’s formation Technology Acquisition Re- to cool ourselves down. We would rush, IT Subcommittee, I have learned one form Act I was proud to cowrite and after we got done voting, to turn on thing: We need to get back to basics, coauthor with then-Chairman DARRELL our radios to see what the news was and this bill does just that. ISSA. saying. Our current use-it-or-lose-it approach I am equally proud today to have Well, the world all changed. We can to Federal IT just isn’t working. It is worked with my friend Mr. HURD from look at our phones and get the news inno secret that Federal agencies are Texas, my friend Ms. KELLY from Illi- stantaneously. We got central air to struggling to stay up to date, espe- nois, and, of course, Mr. STENY HOYER, cool ourselves down. And if you have a cially when compared to the private the Democratic whip, in forging this claim with the VA, lots of times they sector. additional piece that we believe will write it on a piece of paper. Each year, we spend $80 billion in bring the Federal Government into the Well, do you know what? That is all taxpayer dollars to maintain legacy IT 21st century—technologically literate going to stop today. That is going to systems that are vulnerable to cyber and protecting the databases that pro- stop because we are going to make a attacks; and each year that we don’t tect the American people. smart investment. We are going to upgrade these systems, they become Hundreds of millions of pieces of data make the Federal Government have even more difficult and expensive to se- are at risk in the current cyber envi- the same accountability that we expect cure. This is unacceptable and a waste ronment, and some simple but critical in business or anywhere else. of taxpayer dollars. investments can make all the dif- And do you know what will happen? For too long, we have kicked the can ference. That is what we are voting for Government will become more effec- down the road and left our outdated IT today. tive, more efficient, more accountable, systems vulnerable to costly attacks. I urge passage of the legislation and, and more transparent. The dangers of our system are clear. again, congratulate my colleagues and So I want to tip my hat to both sides Every day we are reminded of the im- friends for working together in a bipar- of the aisle, and especially to Congress- portance of having modern IT systems tisan way to bring this bill to fruition. man WILL HURD. He took the leader- and robust cybersecurity practices in Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance ship, had the tenacity to stay with it place. of my time. and the ability to work with all on, In 2015, hackers made off with the Mr. HURD. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- really, the issue that people wouldn’t personal information of more than 20 self such time as I may consume. talk about but expect to happen, and million Americans, including congres- Mr. Speaker, we have some young he was the right person at the right sional staffers, in the OPM data folks in the Chamber right now, and I time to make the push. That is why I breach. Just this past week, as you hope they recognize that this is how support this bill. have heard, a global ransomware at- their government is supposed to work: Mr. CONNOLLY. May I inquire of the tack, WannaCry or WannaCrypt, people working together, putting their Speaker how much time is left on this wreaked havoc worldwide, paralyzing differences past them for the better- side? businesses and governments alike. ment of our great Nation.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00039 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.055 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4266 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 It is an honor for me to have this op- VACATING DEMAND FOR YEAS inserting ‘effective processing of mail by portunity to do this with so many of AND NAYS ON H.R. 984, Federal agencies’;’’; my friends that I have grown to love THOMASINA E. JORDAN INDIAN (D) in paragraph (3), as so redesignated— and respect over these last 2 years. And TRIBES OF VIRGINIA FEDERAL (i) in subparagraph (A)(ii), by striking ‘‘ ‘subsections (a) and (b)’ ’’ and inserting we get to save government money, pro- RECOGNITION ACT OF 2017 ‘‘ ‘subsection (a)’ ’’; and tect our digital infrastructure, and Mr. WALKER. Mr. Speaker, I ask (ii) in subparagraph (B), by striking ‘‘; make sure that our government is pro- unanimous consent that the ordering and’’ and inserting a semicolon; viding the kind of services we should of the yeas and nays on the motion (E) in paragraph (4), as so redesignated, by and that the American people demand. that the House suspend the rules and striking the period at the end and inserting Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of this ‘‘; and’’; and pass the bill (H.R. 984) to extend Fed- (F) by inserting at the end the following bill, and I yield back the balance of my eral recognition to the Chickahominy time. new paragraph: Indian Tribe, the Chickahominy Indian ‘‘(5) by inserting at the end the following Mr. LANGEVIN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in Tribe—Eastern Division, the Upper new subsection: support of the MGT Act and of continued ef- Mattaponi Tribe, the Rappahannock ‘‘ ‘(e) The Administrator, in carrying out forts to improve the federal government’s cy- Tribe, Inc., the Monacan Indian Na- subsection (b), shall have the responsibility bersecurity posture. I would like to thank Mr. tion, and the Nansemond Indian Tribe, to promote economy and efficiency in the se- HURD for his tireless efforts advocating for this be vacated, to the end that the Chair lection and utilization of space, staff, equip- bill and his partners on the Oversight Com- ment, and supplies for processing mail at put the question de novo. Federal facilities.’.’’; mittee, Mr. CONNOLLY and Ms. KELLY for their The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there (3) in subsection (d)— cybersecurity leadership. I also must acknowl- objection to the request of the gen- (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘; and’’ at edge the House’s Minority Whip and my good tleman from North Carolina? the end and inserting a semicolon; friend, Mr. HOYER, for his work pushing for IT There was no objection. (B) in paragraph (2), by striking the period modernization. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and The idea for the kind of revolving fund in- question is on the motion offered by (C) by inserting at the end the following cluded as part of the MGT Act grew out of the gentleman from Virginia (Mr. new paragraph: ‘‘(3) by inserting at the end the following President Obama’s Cybersecurity National Ac- WITTMAN) that the House suspend the tion Plan, itself issued in direct response to new subsection: rules and pass the bill, H.R. 984. ‘‘ ‘(c) The Administrator (or the Adminis- the massive breach of the Office of Personnel The question was taken; and (two- trator’s designee) may inspect the mail proc- Management. OPM was yet another wake up thirds being in the affirmative) the essing practices and programs of any Federal call to the government about the lax attitude rules were suspended and the bill was agency for the purpose of rendering rec- toward security present at many agencies, but, passed. ommendations for the improvement of mail to the prior administration’s credit, the CNAP A motion to reconsider was laid on processing practices and programs. Officers contained a number of needed policy shifts, the table. and employees of such agencies shall cooperate fully in such inspections of mail proc- including the creation of a federal Chief Infor- f mation Security Officer and the use of DHS’s essing practices and programs.’.’’; (4) by striking subsection (f); and authority to conduct a government-wide review FEDERAL AGENCY MAIL MANAGEMENT ACT OF 2017 (5) by redesignating subsection (g) as sub- of high value assets. section (f). Central to the CNAP, though, was the real- Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I move (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments ization that attempting to secure antiquated to suspend the rules and pass the bill made by this section shall take effect as if federal IT systems was a losing proposition. (H.R. 194) to ensure the effective proc- included in the Presidential and Federal Just as the Internet—developed in the essing of mail by Federal agencies, and Records Act Amendments of 2014 (Public 1970s—was not created with security in mind, for other purposes. Law 113–187). so, too, are many older government systems The Clerk read the title of the bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- devoid of even basic security controls. When The text of the bill is as follows: ant to the rule, the gentleman from we think about the fact that the iPhone turns H.R. 194 Oklahoma (Mr. RUSSELL) and the gen- ten next month and the huge improvements Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- tleman from Virginia (Mr. CONNOLLY) that have been made from the first generation resentatives of the United States of America in each will control 20 minutes. model to today’s, it’s easy to see how systems Congress assembled, The Chair recognizes the gentleman that are two or three decades old can hamper SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. from Oklahoma. security. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Federal GENERAL LEAVE Using outdated software also compromises Agency Mail Management Act of 2017’’. Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I ask efficiency. There’s a reason businesses keep SEC. 2. RECORD MANAGEMENT. unanimous consent that all Members up to date with technology—it saves them (a) AMENDMENTS.—Section 9 of the Presi- have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- money. The cleverness of the revolving fund dential and Federal Records Act Amend- tend their remarks and to include any ments of 2014 (44 U.S.C. 101 note) is amend- approach is that it uses these savings to drive extraneous material in the RECORD on ed— the bill under consideration. further upgrades in a virtuous cycle. I hope (1) in subsection (a), by amending para- that the MGT Act is viewed as a pilot program, graph (3) to read as follows: The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there as there is a lot more technical debt we have ‘‘(3) in paragraph (7), by striking ‘the Ad- objection to the request of the gen- incurred than will be solved by $250 million ministrator or the Archivist’ and inserting tleman from Oklahoma? per year. But it is a very important first step, ‘the Archivist or the Administrator’.’’; There was no objection. and I commend the sponsors for their work. (2) in subsection (c)— Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield And I hope that federal agencies view this bill (A) by amending paragraph (1) to read as myself such time as I may consume. as license to be innovative in their upgrade follows: I present today H.R. 194, the Federal ‘‘(1) by amending subsection (a) to read as planning and to bring us a more efficient—and Agency Mail Management Act of 2017. follows: Approximately 2 years ago, President secure—government. ‘‘ ‘(a) The Archivist shall provide guidance Obama signed into law the Presidential b 1515 and assistance to Federal agencies with respect to ensuring— and Federal Records Act Amendments The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ‘‘ ‘(1) economical and effective records of 2014. question is on the motion offered by management; The law modernized and improved the gentleman from Texas (Mr. HURD) ‘‘ ‘(2) adequate and proper documentation Federal recordkeeping statutes by that the House suspend the rules and of the policies and transactions of the Fed- codifying agency responsibilities that pass the bill, H.R. 2227, as amended. eral Government; and have been in practice for decades. Once The question was taken; and (two- ‘‘ ‘(3) proper records disposition.’;’’; the law was enacted, the General Serv- thirds being in the affirmative) the (B) by redesignating paragraphs (2) and (3) ices Administration, or GSA, identified as paragraphs (3) and (4), respectively; rules were suspended and the bill, as (C) by inserting after paragraph (1), the fol- technical provisions in the law that the amended, was passed. lowing new paragraph: agency interpreted as limiting its abil- A motion to reconsider was laid on ‘‘(2) in subsection (b), by striking ‘effective ity to regulate Federal agency mail- the table. records management by such agencies’ and room operations.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.057 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4267 The GSA has been responsible for the rules were suspended and the bill was The Chair recognizes the gentleman regulation and oversight of Federal passed. from Oklahoma. agency mail management for many A motion to reconsider was laid on GENERAL LEAVE years. Congress did not intend for the the table. Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I ask 2014 law to change the mail manage- f unanimous consent that all Members ment structure. FEDERAL REGISTER PRINTING have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- Mr. Speaker, H.R. 194 provides clari- SAVINGS ACT OF 2017 tend their remarks and to include any fication to ensure that the GSA is re- extraneous material in the RECORD on Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I move sponsible for mailroom management the bill under consideration. oversight, and not the National Ar- to suspend the rules and pass the bill The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there chives and Records Administration. (H.R. 195) to amend title 44, United objection to the request of the gen- Both GSA and the National Archives States Code, to restrict the distribu- tleman from Oklahoma? have worked with Congress to make tion of free printed copies of the Fed- There was no objection. the correction, and both entities sup- eral Register to Members of Congress Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield port H.R. 194. and other officers and employees of the myself such time as I may consume. Mr. Speaker, an identical bill was United States, and for other purposes. My bill, H.R. 195, the Federal Reg- passed by the House with unanimous The Clerk read the title of the bill. ister Printing Savings Act of 2017, will The text of the bill is as follows: voice vote near the end of last Con- save taxpayers dollars while providing gress. We hope that this legislation H.R. 195 needed reform in how we conduct day- will be signed into law this Congress to Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- to-day business in Congress. resentatives of the United States of America in The Federal Register contains a large correct the unintended consequences of Congress assembled, amount of information, including pro- a previous law. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. This corrective measure has bipar- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Federal Reg- posed rules and public notices, regula- tisan support, and I appreciate having ister Printing Savings Act of 2017’’. tions, executive orders, and Presi- my friend and colleague, Mr. CONNOLLY SEC. 2. RESTRICTIONS ON DISTRIBUTION OF dential documents. This information is of Virginia, join me as a cosponsor. FREE PRINTED COPIES OF FEDERAL compiled by the National Archives and Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to REGISTER TO MEMBERS OF CON- published daily by the Government GRESS AND FEDERAL EMPLOYEES. support this bill, and I reserve the bal- (a) RESTRICTIONS.—Section 1506 of title 44, Publishing Office, or the GPO. Often ance of my time. United States Code, is amended— described by the National Archives as Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield (1) by striking ‘‘The Administrative Com- ‘‘the daily newspaper of the Federal myself such time as I may consume. mittee’’ and inserting ‘‘(a) COMPOSITION; DU- Government,’’ this service enables Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of the TIES.—The Administrative Committee’’; Members, staffs, and agencies to keep Federal Agency Mail Management Act, (2) in subsection (a)(4), by striking ‘‘the track of activity across government. which I introduced along with, of number of copies’’ and inserting ‘‘subject to In 1994, the GPO began publishing the course, the author of the bill, Rep- subsection (b), the number of copies’’; and Federal Register online. To improve (3) by adding at the end the following new resentative STEVE RUSSELL. I want to subsection: user experience, the digital version has thank Representative RUSSELL for ‘‘(b) RESTRICTIONS ON DISTRIBUTION OF been enhanced over time to provide working in a bipartisan manner on this FREE PRINTED COPIES TO MEMBERS OF CON- navigational aids that include links to legislation. GRESS AND OFFICERS AND EMPLOYEES OF THE related content. The bill would make a technical cor- UNITED STATES.— The Federal Register is now fully rection to clarify that the Adminis- ‘‘(1) PROHIBITING SUBSCRIPTION TO PRINTED searchable and downloadable, making trator of the General Services Adminis- COPIES WITHOUT REQUEST.—Under the regula- for quick access to any document. But tration is responsible for managing tions prescribed to carry out subsection sadly, Mr. Speaker, despite the advance (a)(4), the Director of the Government Pub- mail in the executive branch. The Ad- lishing Office may not provide a printed copy of technology, Members of Congress ministrator of GSA has historically of the Federal Register without charge to and Federal offices across the entire had this responsibility, but when the any Member of Congress or any other office government still receive printed copies Federal Records Act was updated in of the United States during a year unless— of the Federal Register every day. 2014, changes made to the statute left ‘‘(A) the Member or office requests a print- In the course of a year, this stack of it unclear whether the Administrator’s ed copy of a specific issue of the Federal Registers would be 16-feet high. This role had changed. Register; or results in thousands of copies going di- You would think it is a simple com- ‘‘(B) during that year or during the pre- rectly into the trash each week, unless vious year, the Member or office requested a monsense measure, but it requires an subscription to printed copies of the Federal occasionally used as doorstops. Sub- act of Congress to clarify. Congress Register for that year, as described in para- scriptions to the Federal Register cost never intended to take away the Ad- graph (2). about $1,000 annually, meaning hun- ministrator’s authority to manage ‘‘(2) ADMINISTRATION OF SUBSCRIPTIONS.— dreds of thousands of taxpayer dollars mail. The bill was approved by the The regulations prescribed to carry out sub- are wasted each year. This same money House without opposition last year. We section (a)(4) shall include— could pay for the salaries of 50 soldiers are hoping the same will pertain this ‘‘(A) provisions regarding notifications to who defend our Republic in a given year. offices of Members of Congress and other of- year. fices of the United States of the restrictions Mr. Speaker, H.R. 195 makes a small The Congressional Budget Office esti- of paragraph (1); mates this bill would cost the Federal ‘‘(B) provisions describing the process by but significant change to fix the prob- Government nothing, because GSA al- which Members and other offices may re- lem and ensure that we operate in the ready processes mail for Federal agen- quest a specific issue of the Federal Register 21st century. Instead of automatically cies. for purposes of paragraph (1)(A); and receiving printed copies, Members or Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to ‘‘(C) provisions describing the process by offices of the Federal Government who support the bill and give clarity to the which Members and other offices may re- want to continue to receive copies need GSA and the National Archives, and I quest a subscription to the Federal Register only submit a request. There will be an yield back the balance of my time. for purposes of paragraph (1)(B), except that opt-in, instead of an opt-out. such regulations shall limit the period for Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I urge such a subscription to not longer than 1 Current print and on-demand tech- adoption of the bill, and I yield back year.’’. nologies make this possible. The sub- the balance of my time. (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendment scriptions will last for 1 year to ensure The SPEAKER pro tempore. The made by subsection (a) shall take effect Jan- Members and offices are able to evalu- question is on the motion offered by uary 1, 2018. ate if they want to continue the serv- the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ice. For Members in offices that do not RUSSELL) that the House suspend the ant to the rule, the gentleman from use or want the printed version, they rules and pass the bill, H.R. 194. Oklahoma (Mr. RUSSELL) and the gen- will not receive it and will still have The question was taken; and (two- tleman from Virginia (Mr. CONNOLLY) full access to the searchable digital thirds being in the affirmative) the each will control 20 minutes. version which most Members use.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.060 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4268 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 This change will reduce unnecessary in the Federal Government from work- credit they can apply at their institu- printing and, in context, will prevent place harassment and discrimination, tion of learning. 96 Americans from having to work each and for other purposes. Unfortunately, there are no existing year so that we can throw Registers in The Clerk read the title of the bill. provisions in Federal law that protect the trash. The text of the bill is as follows: interns working at Federal agencies Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to H.R. 653 against harassment or discrimination. support this efficient bill, and I reserve Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- In the case of O’Connor v. Davis, the the balance of my time. resentatives of the United States of America in United States Court of Appeals for the Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield Congress assembled, Second Circuit upheld a decision find- myself such time as I may consume. SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. ing an intern could not bring sexual Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Federal In- harassment claims under Federal law. 195, the Federal Register Printing Sav- tern Protection Act of 2017’’. b 1530 ings Act. My friend, Mr. RUSSELL, is SEC. 2. PROHIBITED PERSONNEL PRACTICES. (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 2302 of title 5, The court reasoned that since the in- going to develop a reputation around tern was not a Federal employee, that here for being just too commonsense. United States Code, is amended by adding at the end the following: person was not covered by existing law. This bill would prohibit the Govern- ‘‘(g)(1) All protections afforded to an em- It concluded that: ‘‘It is for Congress, if ment Publishing Office from sending ployee under subparagraphs (A), (B), and (D) it should choose to do so . . . to pro- printed copies of the Federal Register of subsection (b)(1) shall be afforded, in the vide a remedy. . . .’’ to Members of Congress and other Fed- same manner and to the same extent, to an Mr. Speaker, the Oversight and Gov- eral offices unless they wanted them. intern and an applicant for internship. ernment Reform Committee heard tes- The Federal Register includes rules, ‘‘(2) For purposes of the application of this timony showing the damage this loop- regulations, executive orders, and subsection, a reference to an employee shall be considered a reference to an intern in— hole can have at Federal agencies. In a other Federal documents. It is a very ‘‘(A) section 717 of the Civil Rights Act of 2015 hearing on Environmental Protec- important and useful publication. It 1964 (42 U.S.C. 2000e–16); tion Agency mismanagement, wit- does not make sense, however, as my ‘‘(B) sections 12 and 15 of the Age Discrimi- nesses described allegations of sexual friend from Oklahoma has pointed out, nation in Employment Act of 1967 (29 U.S.C. harassment against interns. According for GPO automatically to send it to of- 631, 633a); and to testimony, ‘‘one former intern stat- fices that don’t want it and end up put- ‘‘(C) section 501 of the Rehabilitation Act ed that because of this harassment, she ting it in the garbage, hopefully recy- of 1973 (29 U.S.C. 791). changed her mind about not only about cling. ‘‘(3) In this subsection, the term ‘intern’ working for EPA but also for working means an individual who performs uncom- in the Federal sector at all.’’ The Federal Register is available on- pensated voluntary service in an agency to line, as my friend has pointed out, This is simply unacceptable. earn credit awarded by an educational insti- Mr. Speaker, the Federal Intern Pro- which significantly cuts down on the tution or to learn a trade or occupation.’’. need for printed copies for most of us. (b) CONFORMING AMENDMENT.—Section tection Act of 2017 ensures that interns This bill would reduce waste both in 3111(c)(1) of title 5, United States Code, is working for the Federal Government paper and in Federal dollars. amended by inserting ‘‘section 2302(g) (relat- receive anti-discriminatory and anti- The Congressional Budget Office says ing to prohibited personnel practices),’’ be- harassment protections. Specifically, this bill would reduce Federal spending fore ‘‘chapter 81’’. the bill prohibits discrimination based by $1 million a year. It was the late The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- on race, color, religion, sex, national Everett Dirksen of Illinois who said: ant to the rule, the gentleman from origin, age, or handicapping condition ‘‘A billion here, a billion there, pretty Oklahoma (Mr. RUSSELL) and the gen- for interns working at Federal agen- soon it adds up to real money.’’ CBO tleman from Virginia (Mr. CONNOLLY) cies. These protections are already in also estimates this bill would result in each will control 20 minutes. place for Federal employees. I thank my friend and colleague, the 1,000 fewer copies of the Federal Reg- The Chair recognizes the gentleman ranking member, Mr. ELIJAH CUM- ister being printed each day. from Oklahoma. MINGS, for his leadership and commit- This bill is good for the environment, GENERAL LEAVE ment in protecting interns who work good for taxpayers, and a useful dis- Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that all Members for the Federal Government. cipline for us all in terms of excess we Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- don’t need. support this bill, and I reserve the bal- tend their remarks and to include any Mr. Speaker, I thank Mr. RUSSELL for ance of my time. his leadership, his common sense, and extraneous material in the RECORD on Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield his collaboration on this committee, the bill under consideration. myself such time as I may consume. and I urge all Members to support the The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support bill. objection to the request of the gen- of H.R. 653, the Federal Intern Protec- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance tleman from Oklahoma? tion Act. In fact, it is hard to believe of my time. There was no objection. we need this legislation at this point in Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I urge Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield the 21st century, but we do. adoption of the bill, and I yield back myself such time as I may consume. Under current law, Federal employ- the balance of my time. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to support ees are protected from discrimination The SPEAKER pro tempore. The H.R. 653, the Federal Intern Protection on the basis of race, religion, age, and question is on the motion offered by Act of 2017, sponsored by my colleague sex. Unfortunately, interns don’t qual- the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. from the Oversight Committee, Rank- ify. They have no such protections. RUSSELL) that the House suspend the ing Member ELIJAH CUMMINGS of Mary- I appreciate the wonderful work of rules and pass the bill, H.R. 195. land. our distinguished ranking member, The question was taken; and (two- Mr. Speaker, the Federal Govern- Representative ELIJAH CUMMINGS of thirds being in the affirmative) the ment is well served by interns who pro- Maryland, on this important measure. rules were suspended and the bill was vide invaluable assistance to agencies I am not surprised, and neither are my passed. across the Federal Government. Our in- colleagues, that he would pick up on A motion to reconsider was laid on terns work alongside us and other Fed- this and see the need for this protec- the table. eral employees helping conduct agency tion to be extended to young men and f business on behalf of the American peo- women who want maybe to pursue a ple. career or part of their career in the FEDERAL INTERN PROTECTION Internship programs also help to Federal Government. They need these ACT OF 2017 identify and develop the next genera- protections like the employees they Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I move tion of Federal employees. In ex- are working with side by side. to suspend the rules and pass the bill change, interns gain invaluable work Mr. Speaker, I yield such time as he (H.R. 653) to amend title 5, United experience in a field that they might may consume to the gentleman from States Code, to protect unpaid interns hope to enter upon graduation and Maryland (Mr. CUMMINGS).

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.062 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4269 Mr. CUMMINGS. Mr. Speaker, I The use of internships in the Federal SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. thank the gentleman for yielding and Government is a very underutilized This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Improving Fusion Centers’ Access to Information Act’’. for his kind words. I thank Mr. RUS- tool when compared to the private sec- SEC. 2. ENHANCED INFORMATION SHARING IN SELL also for his very kind words. tor. Many private sector companies THE DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND The bill before us, the Federal Intern will use internships for recruiting the SECURITY STATE, LOCAL, AND RE- Protection Act, would close a loophole talent it needs for the future. In many GIONAL FUSION CENTER INITIA- in Federal employment law that cur- cases, 70 to 80 percent of those who in- TIVE. rently leaves unpaid interns open to tern for private sector corporations end Subsection (b) of section 210A of the Home- discrimination and sexual harassment land Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 124h) is up being hired because they have a amended— with no legal recourse. It is inter- carefully monitored program from ori- (1) in paragraph (2), by inserting before the esting. As I listened to Mr. CONNOLLY, entation and recruitment to the tasks semicolon at the end the following: ‘‘and he is absolutely right: it is surprising at hand during the pendency of the in- conduct outreach to such fusion centers to that they don’t already have this pro- ternship. The Federal Government does identify any gaps in information sharing and tection. no such thing systematically. consult with other Federal agencies to de- Last year, the Oversight and Govern- At the very beginning, if we are velop methods to address such gaps, as ap- ment Reform Committee held a hear- going to use internships as creatively propriate’’; ing at which we heard testimony about as the private sector to recruit the (2) by redesignating paragraphs (3) through (12) as paragraphs (4) through (13), respec- sexual harassment and retaliation in next generation of Federal employees, tively; and an EPA regional office. During the since one-third of the current work- (3) by inserting after paragraph (2) the fol- hearing, both Chairman CHAFFETZ and force is eligible for retirement over the lowing new paragraph: I expressed our disgust at the exploi- next several years, we have to follow ‘‘(3) identify Federal databases and tation of these young women and de- the lead my friends, Mr. CUMMINGS of datasets, including databases and datasets manded action to prevent this abuse in Maryland and Mr. RUSSELL of Okla- used, operated, or managed by Department the future. homa, have just given us, and that is to components, the Federal Bureau of Inves- Unfortunately, the act of harassing make sure it is a safe workplace. Oth- tigation, and the Department of the Treas- unpaid interns on the basis of race, re- ury, that are appropriate, in accordance with erwise, who would be attracted to it? Federal laws and policies, to address any ligion, age, or, in this case, sex is not This piece of legislation is critical to gaps identified pursuant to paragraph (2), for prohibited by Federal law. Under cur- our making Federal internships a inclusion in the information sharing envi- rent law, victims rely on the discretion meaningful tool in their recruitment ronment and coordinate with the appropriate of managers to prevent this behavior, and retention, so long as that work- Federal agency to deploy or access such which is something that doesn’t always force is protected by the same norms databases and datasets;’’. occur. and same regulations as any Federal The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- As one witness testified before our employee. ant to the rule, the gentleman from committee: ‘‘Even after finding out I thank my friend, Mr. CUMMINGS, for New York (Mr. KATKO) and the gen- about the numerous harassment vic- bringing this to our attention, and I tleman from Texas (Mr. VELA) each tims, the direct reporting manager thank Mr. RUSSELL for his leadership. will control 20 minutes. continued to feed the harasser a steady Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance The Chair recognizes the gentleman diet of young women.’’ of my time. from New York. That is a very sad commentary. As I Mr. RUSSELL. Mr. Speaker, I yield GENERAL LEAVE have often said, we are better than myself the balance of my time. Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I ask that. Mr. Speaker, I urge adoption of the unanimous consent that all Members We saw at our hearing that allowing bill. I thank Mr. CUMMINGS for his hard may have 5 legislative days within this kind of behavior to go unchecked work on this measure. I also thank the which to revise and extend their re- can have serious consequences on the committee for their broad, bipartisan, marks and include any extraneous ma- lives and careers of those who are in- unanimous support and hard work in terials on the bill under consideration. terested in government service. What bringing this practical measure. I urge The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there we want to do is encourage young peo- adoption of it. objection to the request of the gen- ple to come into government service. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance tleman from New York? We want them to come in and do what of my time. There was no objection. will feed their souls by making life bet- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- ter for the general population. The last question is on the motion offered by self such time as I may consume. thing we want to do is anything that the gentleman from Oklahoma (Mr. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. would cause them to say this is some- RUSSELL) that the House suspend the 2169, the Improving Fusion Centers’ Ac- thing they don’t want to do. rules and pass the bill, H.R. 653. cess to Information Act. Many interns are willing to work for The question was taken; and (two- In the years since 9/11, Congress and the Federal Government without re- thirds being in the affirmative) the the executive branch have taken many ceiving any pay. That is the other rules were suspended and the bill was steps to address information shortfalls piece: so many of these young people passed. and information-sharing shortfalls. come looking for experience, looking A motion to reconsider was laid on However, we know that silos remain. for opportunity. They simply want a the table. The purpose of H.R. 2169 is to ensure chance to get their foot in the door. We f that the Department of Homeland Se- must protect them from this kind of curity is truly serving as a State and despicable behavior. Our bill will afford IMPROVING FUSION CENTERS’ local information-sharing advocate, as Federal interns protections in the same ACCESS TO INFORMATION ACT originally intended by the Homeland manner and to the same extent as Fed- Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I move to Security Act. eral employees. suspend the rules and pass the bill This bill requires the DHS to regu- I want to take this moment to thank (H.R. 2169) to amend the Homeland Se- larly review information-sharing ef- the chairman for moving this bill expe- curity Act of 2002 to enhance informa- forts with the National Network of Fu- ditiously through our committee, tion sharing in the Department of sion Centers and then work with other where it was adopted unanimously, and Homeland Security State, Local, and Federal agencies to close any identified for bringing it to the floor today. Regional Fusion Center Initiative, and gaps. Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I yield for other purposes, as amended. State and local fusion centers have myself the balance of my time. The Clerk read the title of the bill. grown in maturity and number during Mr. Speaker, again, I want to laud The text of the bill is as follows: the last 16 years since 9/11. There are my friend from Maryland (Mr. CUM- H.R. 2169 now 78 fusion centers within the na- MINGS) for his perspicacity in ferreting Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- tional network. As the network has out this issue. It is a very important resentatives of the United States of America in matured, fusion centers have estab- one. Congress assembled, lished themselves as a critical conduit

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00043 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.065 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4270 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 for sharing terrorism, homeland secu- legislation forward and accomplish our It is critical that we ensure the prop- rity, and criminal information with shared mission of protecting America. er flow of information to all law en- Federal, State, local, tribal, and terri- Sincerely, forcement agencies, that they properly torial partners. As the threat environ- MIKE SENA, use that information, and that they President. ment continues to evolve, it is vital have access to it on a regular basis no they have access to the tools and infor- Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I am very matter whether they are a local police mation systems to stay ahead of pleased to report that H.R. 2169 is a officer who is working at a fusion cen- threats to the homeland. very bipartisan bill that passed the ter or whether it is an FBI agent. Ev- Committee on Homeland Security Despite existing requirements for eryone should have access to that in- unanimously. formation because we are all on the DHS to share intelligence and informa- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to tion with State and local entities, I same team to keep this country safe. support the measure, and I reserve the I think our bipartisan efforts that we have found that the Department does balance of my time. not regularly assess if fusion centers engage in with Homeland Security on a Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- regular basis are a good example of the have access to necessary information self such time as I may consume. or databases held by other Federal good things that happen in Congress. I Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H.R. am proud to be a part it, and I am agencies. H.R. 2169 addresses this defi- 2169, the Improving Fusion Centers’ Ac- ciency by requiring the Secretary to proud to have Mr. VELA as my col- cess to Information Act of 2017. league on that as well. conduct outreach to the fusion centers Mr. Speaker, today we consider H.R. to identify information-sharing gaps Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance 2169, a bill that seeks to authorize of my time. and work with the appropriate Federal DHS’ State, Local, and Regional Fu- agencies to address these gaps. Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, as a sen- sion Center Initiative. The bill requires ior member of the Homeland Security Com- Additionally, the Secretary is re- the Secretary of Homeland Security to mittee, I rise in support of H.R. 2169. the ‘‘Im- quired to identify Federal databases carry out outreach to identify gaps in proving Fusion Centers Access to Information and datasets that should be included in information sharing. Act of 2017,’’ which would enhance informa- the information-sharing environment This measure highlights the impor- tion sharing in the Department of Homeland and coordinate with the appropriate tance of equipping fusion centers so Security State, Local and Regional Fusion Federal agency to deploy such systems. that they can quickly adapt to the Center Initiative. H.R. 2169 includes input from the fu- ever-evolving terrorist threat land- This bill requires outreach to be conducted sion centers, Department of Homeland scape. Congress has given particular to fusion centers in order to identify gaps in in- Security, and other Federal agencies. attention to fusion centers and, in the formation sharing and consultation with other 114th Congress, enacted measures to Mr. Speaker, I include in the RECORD Federal agencies to develop methods to ad- a letter from the National Fusion Cen- support fusion centers. dress such gaps. ter Association, and I am pleased they Fusion centers operate as State and Additionally, it requires the DHS Secretary have endorsed the bill. major urban area focal points for the to coordinate with the heads of other federal receipt, analysis, gathering, and shar- departments and agencies to provide oper- NATIONAL FUSION ing of threat-related information be- CENTER ASSOCIATION, ational and intelligence advice to fusion cen- April 28, 2017. tween Federal, local, and private sector ters and support their efforts to operate effi- Re Support for H.R. 2169—Improving Fusion partners. ciently and effectively. Centers’ Access to Information Act. I want to particularly highlight a H.R. 2169 requires the Under Secretary for Hon. JOHN KATKO, provision of this bill focused on im- Intelligence and Analysis (I&A) to ensure fu- House of Representatives, proving the interagency collaboration sion centers have access to Homeland Secu- Washington, DC. by requiring the DHS Secretary to con- rity information sharing centers and that DHS DEAR CONGRESSMAN KATKO: On behalf of sult with other Federal partners in personnel are deployed to support fusion cen- the National Fusion Center Association order to develop new methods to ad- ters in a manner consistent with the depart- (NFCA), I write in support of your legisla- dress such gaps. ment’s mission and statutory limits. tion—H.R. 2169—to enhance information DHS must continue to address and Fusion centers provide the means to local, sharing and analysis among fusion centers improve the Nation’s fusion centers’ state, and tribal law enforcement to bring to- and federal agencies by encouraging appro- capabilities in gathering, analyzing, priate fusion center access to federally man- gether information from distributed federal and aged information systems. As you know, the and sharing threat-related information private sector sources for the purpose of col- National Network of Fusion Centers (NNFC) between partners on every level. lection, retention, analysis, and dissemination. is a focal point for analytical collaboration b 1545 The term fusion centers first coined by the De- and information sharing on threats to public partment of Defense (DOD) refer to the fusing safety among federal, local, state, terri- Mr. Speaker, in closing, I want to of information for analysis purposes. torial, and tribal public safety agencies. again express my support for this bill The Houston Regional Intelligence Service The NFCA has worked closely with DHS, and thank Mr. KATKO for his efforts in Center is a Fusion Center. the FBI, and other partners to develop bringing this bill forward. The mission of the Houston Regional Intel- strong information sharing pathways. We We live in a time when the threats ligence Service Center is to provide security to have made significant strides to improve we face as a nation remain complex, the Houston area by gathering, developing daily working relationships with our federal and this bill is an important tool to en- and sharing intelligence regarding the capabili- partners. The flow of information from state sure our law enforcement professionals and local public safety agencies to appro- ties, intentions, and actions of terrorist groups priate federal agencies continues to improve, have the resources and methods to pre- and individuals which pose threats. and the same is true with information com- vent and deter terror threats. Houston hosted the 51st Super Bowl earlier ing from federal agencies to local and state Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance this year and the Houston Regional Intel- jurisdictions. We are also seeing enhanced of my time. ligence Service Center was on duty for this analytical collaboration. Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- major national event. Still, challenges remain that should be ad- self the balance of my time. This year’s Super Bowl had: dressed. Your legislation will provide impor- Mr. Speaker, I once again urge my 10,000—volunteers; tant support in this effort by encouraging colleagues to support H.R. 2169. 140,000—visitors; and improved access to data from federally man- Before I close, I want to note that I 1 million—people who participated in at aged information systems that our analysts routinely engage in bipartisan efforts least one Super Bowl event. need to do their jobs in the most effective manner possible. It is crucial for Congress to on behalf of Homeland Security with The Super Bowl took place free of incidents, consistently support a strong information Congressman VELA and others. The which is a testament to the collaborative work sharing environment, and this legislation committee works in a very bipartisan of federal, state, and local law enforcement would assist in that effort. manner to do what is best for this through the Houston Fusion Center. We appreciate your dedication to effective country to keep it safe, and this bill is Mr. Speaker, this bill is not only good for our information sharing and analysis and look one of those bills that helps keep our country, but it also will greatly benefit the citi- forward to working with you to move your country safe. zens of Houston, Texas.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00044 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.068 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4271 If local law enforcement is given the proper with a port security nexus shall be composed individuals are facing charges for about resources, information, and intelligence, they of at least one member of each of the fol- 370 crimes, including operating as drug will know how to properly handle terrorism lowing: dealers and traffickers. ‘‘(A) The Coast Guard Investigative Serv- threats. ice. Mr. Speaker, if these individuals had H.R. 2169 will strengthen our economy ‘‘(B) The geographically-responsible Coast not been stopped, their nefarious ac- while keeping our fellow citizens safe. Guard Sector Intelligence Office.’’. tivities would have broken the dreams Mr. Speaker, I ask that my colleagues join (c) UPDATED REPORT ELEMENTS.—Sub- of children across America, and their me in supporting H.R. 2169 because the safe- section (e) of section 432 of the Homeland Se- criminal enterprise would have caused ty of citizens from potential threats is critical to curity Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 240) is amended to millions in economic loss through in- the security of the homeland and strength of read as follows: creased incarceration, rehab, and med- ‘‘(e) REPORT.—Not later than 180 days after our economy. ical expenses. If they had not been The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. the date of the enactment of this section and annually thereafter for the following five stopped, their actions would have con- DUNCAN of Tennessee). The question is years, the Secretary shall submit to Con- tinued to introduce poison into our on the motion offered by the gen- gress a report that includes the following: communities and shattered lives. tleman from New York (Mr. KATKO) ‘‘(1) A description of the effectiveness of Even worse, a recent trend shows that the House suspend the rules and BEST in enhancing border security, dis- that the heroin hitting our streets is pass the bill, H.R. 2169, as amended. rupting and dismantling transnational becoming more lethal as drug cartels The question was taken; and (two- criminal organizations, and reducing drug have now begun lacing heroin with trafficking, arms smuggling, illegal alien thirds being in the affirmative) the fentanyl, a synthetic opioid making rules were suspended and the bill, as trafficking and smuggling, violence, and kid- napping along and across the international doses more addictive and cheaper to amended, was passed. borders of the United States, as measured by produce. A motion to reconsider was laid on crime statistics, including violent deaths, in- I might add parenthetically that, for the table. cidents of violence, and drug-related arrests. 20 years as a Federal prosecutor, I pros- f ‘‘(2) An assessment of how BEST enhances ecuted every possible drug organization information-sharing, including the dissemi- known to man. I have never seen any- BORDER ENFORCEMENT SECURITY nation of homeland security information, TASK FORCE REAUTHORIZATION among Federal, State, local, tribal, and for- thing with the lethality that is heroin. ACT OF 2017 eign law enforcement agencies. This epidemic is, in large part, due to the stream of illegal narcotics that is Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I move to ‘‘(3) A description of how BEST advances the Department’s homeland and border secu- flowing across our Nation’s borders. suspend the rules and pass the bill rity strategic priorities and effectiveness of However, there are steps that can be (H.R. 2281) to amend the Homeland Se- BEST in achieving related objectives. taken to shut down these illicit path- curity Act of 2002 to reauthorize the ‘‘(4) An assessment of BEST’s joint oper- ways. Thankfully, there is a Federal Border Enforcement Security Task ational efforts with departmental Joint Task task force dedicated to this singular Force program within the Department Force operations established pursuant to purpose. of Homeland Security, and for other section 708 and other joint cross-border ini- purposes, as amended. tiatives.’’. In 2005, in response to the increase in The Clerk read the title of the bill. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- violence along the southwest border of The text of the bill is as follows: ant to the rule, the gentleman from Mexico, the U.S. Immigration and Cus- toms Enforcement, Homeland Security H.R. 2281 New York (Mr. KATKO) and the gentleman from Texas (Mr. VELA) each Investigations, in partnership with Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- U.S. Customs and Border Protection, resentatives of the United States of America in will control 20 minutes. Congress assembled, The Chair recognizes the gentleman as well as other Federal, State, local, SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. from New York. and international law enforcement offi- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Border En- GENERAL LEAVE cials, created what is known as BEST, forcement Security Task Force Reauthoriza- Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I ask the Border Enforcement Security Task tion Act of 2017’’. unanimous consent that all Members Force. SEC. 2. MODIFIED INSTRUCTIONS. have 5 legislative days within which to To date, a total of 44 BEST units (a) UPDATED CONSIDERATIONS FOR THE ES- revise and extend their remarks and in- have been deployed across 16 States TABLISHMENT OF UNITS.—Paragraph (2) of and in the Commonwealth of Puerto section 432(c) of the Homeland Security Act clude any extraneous material on the bill under consideration. Rico. My home State of New York is of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 240(c)) is amended— well served by three BEST teams, two (1) in the matter preceding subparagraph The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there (A), by striking ‘‘the Secretary shall con- objection to the request of the gen- of which are situated on the northern sider’’ and inserting ‘‘the Secretary shall tleman from New York? border and one of which I helped stand apply risk-based criteria that takes into con- There was no objection. up in Massena, New York. sideration’’; and Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Nationwide, BEST teams comprise (2) in subparagraph (A), by inserting before self such time as I may consume. over 1,000 members who represent over the semicolon the following: ‘‘, including Mr. Speaker, today I rise in support 100 law enforcement agencies that have threats posed by transnational criminal or- of H.R. 2281, the Border Enforcement committed to jointly investigate ganizations’’; transnational criminal activity along (3) in subparagraph (C), by striking ‘‘and’’ Security Task Force Reauthorization after the semicolon; Act of 2017. the southwest and northern borders (4) in subparagraph (D), by striking the pe- Mr. Speaker, we are living in unprec- and at our Nation’s major seaports. riod at the end and inserting ‘‘; and’’; and edented times. A quick glance of recent Since inception, their collective ef- (5) by adding at the end the following new headlines shows that our Nation is suf- forts have initiated more than 10,654 subparagraphs: fering from the largest heroin epidemic investigations which have resulted in ‘‘(E) the extent to which the BEST unit in the history of the United States. In almost 13,000 criminal arrests, the sei- would advance the Department’s homeland fact, just last week, Bloomberg zure of 1.2 million pounds of narcotics, and border security strategic priorities and related objectives; and Businessweek reported that heroin has and more than $130 million. The street ‘‘(F) whether departmental Joint Task become so pervasive in our cities and value of 1.2 million pounds of narcotics Force operations as established pursuant to so profitable for the cartels that supply is astronomical. section 708 and other joint cross-border ini- it that even our local law enforcement This is an impressive feat by any tiatives would be enhanced, improved, or officers are disheartened and admit measure; however, as we are consid- otherwise assisted by the BEST unit to be that sporadic street-level arrests seem ering reauthorizing this important established.’’. to have little to no effect. task force, it is important to highlight (b) PORT SECURITY.—Subsection (c) of sec- Recently, in my district and because where there is some room for improve- tion 432 of the Homeland Security Act of 2002 (6 U.S.C. 240) is amended by adding at the of the hard work of our men and ment. Every Congress looks at existing end the following new paragraph: women in law enforcement, we wit- programs and makes adjustments when ‘‘(4) PORT SECURITY BEST UNITS.—A BEST nessed the dismantling of a large-scale needed. That is exactly what we are unit established pursuant to paragraph (2) organization. News reports indicate 52 proposing to do here today.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.033 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4272 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 Of the 44, total, BEST units, 20 of ing consideration of the measure on the shift their criminal operations to new them are designated by Homeland Se- House floor. locations along our land borders, smug- curity Investigations as having a mari- Sincerely, gle their contraband into the United time security focus. While the Coast BILL SHUSTER, States through our ports of entry, or Chairman. Guard provides critical support to Fed- utilize maritime routes into this coun- eral, State, and local partners through HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, try, DHS must be at the ready to a majority of the maritime BESTs, not COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY, quickly intercept and disrupt their op- every maritime BEST is currently ben- Washington, DC, May 15, 2017. erations. efiting from Coast Guard participation. Hon. BILL SHUSTER, This legislation seeks to ensure that Chairman, Committee on Transportation and This bill mandates the participation DHS continues to use BEST units to Infrastructure, Washington, DC. maximum effect. This bill instructs of both a Coast Guard Investigative DEAR CHAIRMAN SHUSTER: Thank you for Service special agent and a uniformed DHS, before standing up a BEST unit, your letter regarding H R 2281, the ‘‘Border to consider the cross-border threats Coast Guard intelligence officer on Enforcement Security Task Force Reauthor- posed by transnational criminal orga- every maritime BEST. By utilizing ization Act of 2017’’. I appreciate your sup- nizations, the Department’s homeland both plainclothes investigators and port in bringing this legislation before the and border security strategic prior- uniformed intelligence officers, BEST House of Representatives. I understand that ities, as well as the operations of DHS’ will be able to partner with the Coast the Committee on Transportation and Infra- structure, will not seek a sequential referral joint task forces and other multi- Guard in ongoing criminal investiga- on the bill. We appreciate your cooperation agency efforts. tions and the generation of actionable in this matter. H.R. 2281 also updates existing re- maritime intelligence. The Committee on Homeland Security con- porting requirements so that Congress The Coast Guard is the only agency curs with the mutual understanding that the has better information on how effec- within DHS that is also an independent decision not to seek a sequential referral on this bill at this time does not prejudice any tively BEST units are reducing crimi- member of the intelligence commu- claim the Committee on Transportation and nal activity, such as the traffic of nity. This unique position, coupled Infrastructure may have on this legislation drugs, weapons, and people along our with the fact that the Coast Guard has or similar legislation in the future. borders; enhancing information sharing unparalleled maritime domain aware- I will insert copies of this exchange in the among law enforcement partners; co- ness through daily interaction with Congressional Record during consideration ordinating with the Department’s joint mariners and facility operators, makes of this bill on the House floor. I thank you task forces; and generally advancing it imperative that they are included in for your cooperation in this matter. the DHS homeland security and border Sincerely, all maritime BESTS in a mandatory security strategic priorities. MICHAEL T. MCCAUL, fashion. Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security. I also want to thank my colleagues on the Border and Maritime Security As we find ourselves halfway through Mr. VELA. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Subcommittee who have cosponsored Police Week this week, I want to take self such time as I may consume. this legislation, including Sub- a second to pause and thank the men Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support committee Chairwoman MARTHA and women of law enforcement of H.R. 2281, the Border Enforcement MCSALLY. I urge my colleagues to sup- throughout this great Nation—many of Security Task Force Reauthorization whom I have stood side by side with for port H.R. 2281. Act of 2017. Mr. Speaker, H.R. 2281, the Border over 20 years—for all they do in keep- Mr. Speaker, this bill, H.R. 2281, Enforcement Security Task Force Re- ing our country safe. seeks to reauthorize the Border En- authorization Act of 2017, is a common- I would also like to thank the rank- forcement Security Task Force, or sense, bipartisan bill that seeks to ing member, Mr. VELA, for introducing BEST, program within the Department maximize the effectiveness of the suc- this bill, and I urge my colleagues to of Homeland Security. cessful border security program and en- U.S. Immigration and Customs En- support the law enforcement commu- sure that, going forward, the program forcement leads 42 BEST units across nity and vote in favor of reauthorizing continues to contribute to making our 16 States within the United States and this important task force. Nation more safe and secure. Puerto Rico. Each unit is comprised of Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of H.R. 2281 was approved by voice vote members from ICE’s Homeland Secu- my time. by the full committee on May 3 and en- rity Investigations, U.S. Customs and joys broad, bipartisan support. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, COM- Border Protection, as well as other MITTEE ON TRANSPORTATION AND Before I yield back, I would like to INFRASTRUCTURE, Federal, State, and local law enforce- thank Chairman MCCAUL and Ranking Washington, DC, May 15, 2017. ment agencies who investigate crimi- Member THOMPSON, as well as Sub- Hon. MICHAEL T. MCCAUL, nal activity along the southwest and committee Chairwoman MCSALLY, for Chairman, Committee on Homeland Security, northern borders and at the Nation’s their work on this bill. Washington, DC. major seaports. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to DEAR CHAIRMAN MCCAUL: I write con- These units play a critical role in ad- support this bill, and I yield back the cerning H.R. 2281, the Border Enforcement vancing DHS’ border security efforts balance of my time. Security Task Force Reauthorization Act of by ensuring all levels of domestic law Mr. KATKO. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- 2017. This legislation includes matters that I enforcement are sharing information self the balance of my time. believe fall within the Rule X jurisdiction of and leveraging resources. BEST units Mr. Speaker, I once again urge my the Committee on Transportation and Infra- have been instrumental in coordinating structure. colleagues to adopt this legislation. joint operations with our law enforce- I want to note that, back in the mid- In order to expedite floor consideration of ment partners in Mexico to thwart nineties when I was starting out my H.R. 2281, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure agrees to forgo action on threats posed by transnational crimi- career as a Federal organized crime this bill. However, this is conditional on our nal organizations. prosecutor, I was set on the border in mutual understanding that forgoing consid- This legislation is in furtherance of El Paso, Texas, and I had a frontline eration of the bill would not prejudice the my efforts as ranking member of the view, as I was going after cartel-level Committee with respect to the appointment Subcommittee on Boder and Maritime drug traffickers back then, of just what of conferees or to any future jurisdictional Security to bolster law enforcement a problem the border is. claim over the subject matters contained in collaboration on cross-border threats Many people think of the border’s the bill or similar legislation that fall within and to ensure that resources are used primary problem being illegal aliens, the Committee’s Rule X jurisdiction. I re- but I can tell you firsthand—and I quest you urge the Speaker to name mem- in a strategic manner to effectively bers of the Committee to any conference mitigate such threats, particularly in think my colleague from Texas will committee named to consider such provi- response to the drug cartels. agree with me—that drug trafficking sions. Those of us representing border dis- remains a gigantic issue, and the poi- Please place a copy of this letter and your tricts are well aware that cartels adapt son that is killing our kids is stream- response acknowledging our jurisdictional quickly to exploit real or perceived ing across the southwest border in par- interest into the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD dur- weaknesses in our security. As they ticular.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.072 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4273 It is imperative that bills like this 2,718 criminal arrests Act (7 U.S.C. 1011(c)), if the City of Old Town, continue. It is imperative that Con- 7,245 administrative arrests Maine, makes a written request to the Sec- gressman VELA, Congresswoman 110,711 pounds of cocaine retary of Agriculture, the Secretary shall release, convey, and quitclaim, without mone- MCSALLY, and the others on their sub- 5,517 pounds of ecstasy tary consideration, all rights, title, and in- committee continue their great work 1,764 pounds of heroin terest of the United States in and to the identifying issues along the border, 1,036,749 pounds of marijuana lands specified in subsection (b). both north and south, and that the 6,325 pounds of methamphetamine (b) LANDS SPECIFIED.—The lands subject to BEST concept continues and, indeed, 2,988,561 rounds of ammunition subsection (a) include only the lands— hopefully, expands in the future. Tar- 4,657 vehicles (1) conveyed by the United States to the geted law enforcement that involves $130.2 million in U.S. currency City of Old Town, Maine, under section 32(c) people on both sides of the border and 15,062 weapons of the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act (7 law enforcement is the only way we are This bill instructs the Secretary of Homeland U.S.C. 1011(c)) by the deed dated June 5, 1941; Security to also consider: (2) proposed for conveyance by the City of ever going to solve this problem. I com- Old Town, Maine, for the purpose of eco- mend them for their work on this. The cross-border threats posed by nomic development; and Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance transnational criminal organizations; (3) described in the written request sub- of my time. The Department’s homeland and border se- mitted by the City of Old Town, Maine, to Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in curity strategic priorities; and the Secretary of Agriculture pursuant to support of H.R. 2281 the ‘‘Border Enforcement The departmental Joint Task Forces and subsection (a). Security Task Force Reauthorization Act of other multi-agency cross-border operations The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- 2017.’’ when establishing new BEST Units. ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- As a Senior Member on the House Com- In addition, this bill would update the Sec- linois (Mr. RODNEY DAVIS) and the gen- mittee on Homeland Security; and former retary’s existing reporting requirement to pro- tleman from Minnesota (Mr. PETERSON) Ranking Member of the Subcommittee on Bor- vide an assessment of how BEST Units en- each will control 20 minutes. der and Maritime Security, I know well the im- hance information-sharing among law enforce- The Chair recognizes the gentleman portance of protecting our nation’s borders. ment partners, coordinate with Departmental from Illinois. Joint Task Forces, and advance the Depart- I thank my colleague Congressman VELA for GENERAL LEAVE ment’s homeland and border security strategic sponsoring this bipartisan legislation, which re- Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. priorities. authorizes the Border Enforcement Security Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that This legislation will improve and update the Task Force (BEST) program. all Members may have 5 legislative An escalation in drug trafficking and information sharing practices between our law days within which to revise and extend transnational criminal activity along our na- enforcement agencies so they will operate in their remarks and include extraneous tion’s southern border has led to record levels a cohesive manner. material on the bill under consider- of violence and drug trafficking-related homi- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to sup- ation. cides. port H.R. 2281 the BEST program because it The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Despite significant efforts to combat the had proven throughout the years to improve objection to the request of the gen- drug trade, many governments in the region our border security, along with improving how tleman from Illinois? suffer from overwhelmed criminal justice sys- our law enforcement agencies operate and There was no objection. tems and law enforcement agencies. share vital information. There must be a multi-pronged approach to The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. solving the drug crisis in the United States, it question is on the motion offered by Speaker, I yield myself such time as I must include treatment upon demand; edu- the gentleman from New York (Mr. may consume. cation; increase resources for border interdic- KATKO) that the House suspend the Mr. Speaker, I rise today in support tion and seizure of illicit drugs and advanced rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2281, as of H.R. 1177, Removing Outdated Re- technology to detect and track those who may amended. strictions to Allow for Job Growth Act. be engaged in illegal activity along the border. The question was taken; and (two- In the early 1980s, the city of Old The Border Enforcement Security Task thirds being in the affirmative) the Town, Maine, purchased land from the Force is accomplishing the important law en- rules were suspended and the bill, as Federal Government to be part of the forcement component of border security. amended, was passed. Old Town airport. The deed included a The Border Enforcement Security Task A motion to reconsider was laid on use restriction, as required by a 1941 Force achieves its goal of border security en- the table. amendment to the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant Act of 1937, limiting use hancement by facilitating collaboration among f federal, state, local, tribal, and foreign law en- of the land to a municipal airport or b 1600 forcement agencies to execute coordinated other public use. activities in furtherance of border security and REMOVING OUTDATED RESTRIC- Old Town has invested heavily in this homeland security; and enhancing information- TIONS TO ALLOW FOR JOB land in order to attract businesses, but sharing, including the dissemination of home- GROWTH ACT the outdated deed restriction needs to be lifted before further economic devel- land security information among such agen- Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. opment can occur. cies. Speaker, I move to suspend the rules H.R. 1177 provides for the removal of The BEST program is currently administered and pass the bill (H.R. 1177) to direct the deed restriction on the parcel of by DHS, and involves information sharing and the Secretary of Agriculture to release land around the Old Town airport to law-enforcement operations between per- on behalf of the United States the con- allow for business development. The sonnel from federal, state, local, tribal, and for- dition that certain lands conveyed to bill allows the City of Old Town to send eign law-enforcement agencies to combat the City of Old Town, Maine, be used a letter to the Secretary of Agriculture criminal activity near the United States bor- for a municipal airport, and for other detailing which lands it would like re- ders. purposes. leased from the deed restriction and di- This program has established teams of law The Clerk read the title of the bill. enforcement agents from over 100 law en- The text of the bill is as follows: rects the Secretary to release that land to the city of Old Town. forcement agencies that form units to inves- H.R. 1177 tigate transnational criminal activity. Passage of this commonsense provi- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- sion will allow economic development This approach supports better cooperation resentatives of the United States of America in and collaboration among federal, state, local Congress assembled, in Old Town to move forward, creating as many as 200 much-needed jobs. This and tribal law enforcement agencies when in- SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. vestigating criminal activity along the south- This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Removing legislation will provide certainty to west and northern borders, as well as at the Outdated Restrictions to Allow for Job private investors in the community nation’s major seaports. Growth Act’’. and help the local economy thrive. Since their inception, BEST Units have col- SEC. 2. RELEASE OF REVERSIONARY INTEREST. I would like to thank the gentleman lectively initiated more than 10,654 cases. (a) RELEASE.—Notwithstanding section from Maine (Mr. POLIQUIN) for address- These actions have resulted in more than: 32(c) of the Bankhead-Jones Farm Tenant ing this issue, and our chairman on the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.073 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4274 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 House Agriculture Committee, Chair- Ron Harriman, who is the economic search Center in Fargo, North Dakota, man CONAWAY, for moving this bill for- development director of Old Town, as the Edward T. Schafer Agricultural ward. reached out to our office and said: Research Center, as amended. This is a good government bill that Bruce, we have a problem here. We The Clerk read the title of the bill. eliminates red tape to unleash private have a terrific piece of property sur- The text of the bill is as follows: investment. At a time when rural rounding our airport. We have gone H.R. 2154 America is struggling—it is people like through extensive work and cost to the Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Representative POLIQUIN and all of us— town to extend utilities to this piece of resentatives of the United States of America in we must do all we can to encourage land. But lo and behold, there is a Fed- Congress assembled, growth and development in rural com- eral deed restriction on that land that SECTION 1. RENAMING OF THE RED RIVER VAL- LEY AGRICULTURAL RESEARCH CEN- munities, many that we all serve, but dates back decades that doesn’t allow TER IN FARGO, NORTH DAKOTA AS also the one that Representative us to sell the land and develop it for THE EDWARD T. SCHAFER AGRICUL- POLIQUIN serves in Old Town, Maine. I more jobs. TURAL RESEARCH CENTER. urge all of my colleagues to support I don’t doubt at the time, Mr. Speak- (a) RENAMING.—The Red River Valley Agri- this legislation. er, that the Federal Government that cultural Research Center in Fargo, North Da- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of was buying up local property across kota, shall hereafter be known and designated my time. as the ‘‘Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Re- the country, reclaiming it and turning search Center’’. Mr. PETERSON. Mr. Speaker, I yield it into agricultural land, I don’t ques- (b) REFERENCES.—Any reference in any law, myself such time as I may consume. tion the purpose of that and the good regulation, map, document, paper, or other Mr. Speaker, H.R. 1177 is a bill that intentions of that; but that was a long record of the United States to the facility re- will allow the city of Old Town, Maine, time ago. ferred to in subsection (a) shall be considered to to move forward with economic devel- We now have a situation where the be a reference to the Edward T. Schafer Agricul- opment plans that have been hampered city of Old Town needs to be able to tural Research Center. by Federal red tape. H.R. 1177 removes sell this property in order to attract The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- the current deed restriction on the other investment and other jobs to ant to the rule, the gentleman from Il- land surrounding the Old Town airport. help our families in central Maine. Re- linois (Mr. RODNEY DAVIS) and the gen- This will allow the city to implement moving this deed restriction will allow tleman from Minnesota (Mr. PETERSON) economic development initiatives that that to happen. each will control 20 minutes. will create jobs and spur economic ac- I am asking everybody in this Cham- The Chair recognizes the gentleman tivity in the area. ber, Republicans and Democrats—and I from Illinois. As a pilot, I am glad to see that the thank the gentleman from Minnesota GENERAL LEAVE airport will not be impacted by this (Mr. PETERSON)—please support H.R. Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. change and will continue to meet the 1177. There are many times, Mr. Speak- Speaker, I ask unanimous consent that region’s air transportation needs. er, when all the government needs to all Members may have 5 legislative Again, H.R. 1177 is common sense, rea- do is get out of the way. This is one ex- days within which to revise and extend sonable legislation. I urge my col- ample. Let the Federal Government get their remarks and include extraneous leagues to vote ‘‘yes.’’ out of the way. We know how to create material on the bill under consider- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of jobs in the State of Maine. Let’s re- ation. my time. move this red tape. Let’s let this land The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. be sold for folks who want to create objection to the request of the gen- Speaker, I thank the gentleman from jobs. I would be very grateful for every- tleman from Illinois? Minnesota (Mr. PETERSON) for sup- body in this Chamber to support H.R. There was no objection. porting this legislation. 1177 and let the people of central Maine Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman live better lives with more jobs and Speaker, I yield myself such time as I from Maine (Mr. POLIQUIN), who actu- more freedom. may consume. ally was the one who brought this bill Mr. PETERSON. Mr. Speaker, I have I rise today in support of H.R. 2154, to to the attention of the House Agri- no further speakers, and I yield back rename the Red River Valley Agricul- culture Committee and to the floor the balance of my time. tural Research Center in Fargo, North here today. It is his hard work, and Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Dakota, as the Edward T. Schafer Agri- there are not many in this institution Speaker, I urge all Members to support cultural Research Center. And this, Mr. who work harder than Representative passage of this commonsense legisla- Speaker, is in spite of the fact that it POLIQUIN in addressing the needs of tion, H.R. 1177. is located at North Dakota State Uni- rural America. I yield back the balance of my time. versity, which, in January of 2015, beat Mr. POLIQUIN. Mr. Speaker, I thank The SPEAKER pro tempore. The my Illinois State Red Birds for the FCS the gentleman from Illinois for those question is on the motion offered by football championship and caused me kind remarks. the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. ROD- to have to bring cupcakes from Nor- I am so proud to represent the most NEY DAVIS) that the House suspend the mal, Illinois, to pay a bet with my col- honest and hardworking Americans rules and pass the bill, H.R. 1177. league who is the author of this bill, you can find anywhere. Maine’s Second The question was taken. Congressman KEVIN CRAMER. So I still Congressional District is, if not the The SPEAKER pro tempore. In the support this bill in spite of those ac- largest, the second largest congres- opinion of the Chair, two-thirds being tions because it is a good bill, Mr. sional district east of the Mississippi in the affirmative, the ayes have it. Speaker. River. It is about an 8-hour drive from Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. Ed Schafer served as North Dakota’s Fryeburg to Madawaska, and you are Speaker, on that I demand the yeas Governor from 1992 to 2000, and as our going to spend about half your time and nays. Nation’s Secretary of Agriculture from dodging moose and other critters on The yeas and nays were ordered. 2008 to 2009. Renaming the Red River the road. We are tough, we are rugged, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Valley Agricultural Research Center in but we need jobs. We need jobs. ant to clause 8 of rule XX, further pro- Fargo, North Dakota, to honor Sec- We have had a situation in our State ceedings on this motion will be post- retary Schafer is a fitting tribute to for the past 30 years where many of our poned. his distinguished career in public serv- paper mills and sawmills and textile f ice. mills and leather tanneries have Located in Secretary Schafer’s home closed. We have a handful left. And EDWARD T. SCHAFER AGRICUL- State and at one of the Nation’s pre- right smack in the middle of our State TURAL RESEARCH CENTER mier land grant universities, this re- is the great city of Old Town, Maine, Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. search center continues to advance its just a little bit north of Bangor. Old Speaker, I move to suspend the rules vital work on improving crops to Town has also suffered the closure of a and pass the bill (H.R. 2154) to rename strengthen our Nation’s food security. significant mill—or two, actually. the Red River Valley Agricultural Re- I greatly appreciate the work—in spite

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.076 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4275 of the cupcakes—that Congressman I feel like this is a fitting tribute to SEC. 2. FINDINGS. KEVIN CRAMER has put forth on this him. It is a celebration not only of his Congress finds the following: bill, his leadership, and I urge my col- accomplishments, but a celebration of (1) During the past decade, there has been leagues to join me today in supporting agriculture in North Dakota and the a steady increase in anti-Semitic incidents in Europe, resulting in European Jews being this legislation. entire Red River Valley, including Con- the targets of physical and verbal harass- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of gressman PETERSON’s district, and real- ment and even lethal terrorist attacks, all of my time. ly for our world. which has eroded personal and communal se- Mr. PETERSON. Mr. Speaker, I yield I would note that our two Senators, curity and the quality of daily Jewish life. myself such time as I may consume. while it is easy for me to get una- (2) According to reporting by the European H.R. 2154 recognizes former U.S. De- nimity in the House for the North Da- Union Agency for Fundamental Rights partment of Agriculture Secretary and kota House caucus since I am the only (FRA), between 2005 and 2014, anti-Semitic former North Dakota Governor Ed one, North Dakota’s two Senators have incidents increased in France from 508 to 851; Schafer by renaming the Red River a companion bill in the Senate intro- in Germany from 60 to 173; in Belgium from 58 to 130; in Italy from 49 to 86; and in the Valley Agricultural Research Center in duced by Senator HOEVEN and cospon- United Kingdom from 459 to 1,168. his honor. sored by Senator HEITKAMP, and they The research center serves the re- (3) Anti-Zionism has at times devolved into support this effort as well. anti-Semitic attacks, prompting condemna- gion, including my district in Min- I appreciate the work of the com- tion from many European leaders, including nesota, by coordinating five research mittee and the work of Ed Schafer, and French Prime Minister Manuel Valls, British units in two Fargo laboratories. The I look forward, hopefully, to a celebra- Prime Minister David Cameron, and German center does a wide range of work with tion of the renaming. Chancellor Angela Merkel. a focus on animal metabolism-agricul- Mr. PETERSON. Mr. Speaker, I have (4) Since 2010, the Department of State has tural chemicals, cereal crops, insect no further speakers on this side. Again, adhered to the working definition of Anti- genetics and biochemistry, sugar beet I thank the gentleman from North Da- Semitism by the European Monitoring Cen- ter on Racism and Xenophobia (EUMC). and potato, and sunflower and plant bi- kota (Mr. CRAMER) for bringing this Some contemporary examples of anti-Semi- ology research. forward. Mr. Schafer is a great member I worked closely with Ed Schafer tism include the following: of our community. He spends some (A) Calling for, aiding, or justifying the when he was at USDA and also during time in my hometown every year and I killing or harming of Jews (often in the the time he was North Dakota’s Gov- have gotten to know him very well. He name of a radical ideology or an extremist ernor. We worked on many things to- very much deserves this honor. I am view of religion). gether. Some of them were pleasant happy to support this bill, and I ask my (B) Making mendacious, dehumanizing, de- and some of them not so pleasant, such colleagues to support it. monizing, or stereotypical allegations about as floods and so forth. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance Jews as such, or the power of Jews as a col- I think it is a fitting recognition for of my time. lective, especially, but not exclusively, the an outstanding career in government, myth about a world Jewish conspiracy or of 1615 and I am happy to be here to support b Jews controlling the media, economy, gov- this bill. Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. ernment, or other societal institutions. Speaker, I agree with my colleagues (C) Accusing Jews as a people of being re- Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of sponsible for real or imagined wrongdoing my time. from Minnesota and North Dakota. I committed by a single Jewish person or Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois. Mr. urge all Members to support this bill. group, the State of Israel, or even for acts Speaker, again, I thank the gentleman Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance committed by non-Jews. from Minnesota (Mr. PETERSON) for of my time. (D) Accusing the Jews as a people, or Israel supporting this legislation. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The as a state, of inventing or exaggerating the Mr. Speaker, I yield 4 minutes to the question is on the motion offered by Holocaust. gentleman from North Dakota (Mr. the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. (E) Accusing Jewish citizens of being more CRAMER), the author of this bill. DAVIS) that the House suspend the loyal to Israel, or to the alleged priorities of Mr. CRAMER. Mr. Speaker, I thank rules and pass the bill, H.R. 2154, as Jews worldwide, than to the interest of their own countries. Mr. DAVIS and my colleague, Mr. amended. (5) On October 16, 2004, the President signed PETERSON, from across the Red River The question was taken; and (two- thirds being in the affirmative) the into law the Global Anti-Semitism Review in Minnesota for their support for this Act of 2004. This law provides the legal foun- renaming of the Red River Valley Agri- rules were suspended and the bill, as dation for a reporting requirement provided cultural Research Center. For all of the amended, was passed. by the Department of State annually on reasons that Representative PETERSON A motion to reconsider was laid on anti-Semitism around the world. talked about, it is a world-class facil- the table. (6) In November 2015, the House of Rep- ity in a world-class town, and I think it f resentatives passed H. Res. 354 by a vote of should be named after a world-class 418–0, urging the Secretary of State to con- COMBATING EUROPEAN ANTI- tinue robust United States reporting on anti- guy, and I think Ed Schafer is that. SEMITISM ACT OF 2017 Semitism by the Department of State and I had the opportunity to serve under Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- the Special Envoy to Combat and Monitor Ed when he was Governor for 8 years. I Anti-Semitism. served in his cabinet. His intellect and er, I move to suspend the rules and pass the bill (H.R. 672) to require con- (7) In 2016, the International Holocaust Re- his common sense are matched only by membrance Alliance (IHRA), comprised of 31 tinued and enhanced annual reporting his boundless energy and his eternal member countries, adopted a working defini- to Congress in the Annual Report on optimism, qualities he brings to every tion of anti-Semitism which stated: ‘‘Anti- International Religious Freedom on job he does, including his work at the Semitism is a certain perception of Jews, anti-Semitic incidents in Europe, the Department of Agriculture. which may be expressed as hatred toward When he was recognized by his safety and security of European Jewish Jews. Rhetorical and physical manifesta- communities, and the efforts of the tions of anti-Semitism are directed toward former Governor colleague, President Jewish or non-Jewish individuals and/or George W. Bush, and asked to join the United States to partner with Euro- pean governments, the European their property, toward Jewish community administration in that department, it institutions and religious facilities.’’. was a remarkable thing not just for ag- Union, and civil society groups, to (8) The IHRA further clarified that mani- riculture, not just for Ed, but for our combat anti-Semitism, and for other festations of anti-Semitism might also tar- State. North Dakota is number one in purposes, as amended. get the State of Israel, conceived of as a Jew- The Clerk read the title of the bill. the production of many crops. Agri- ish collectivity. Anti-Semitism frequently The text of the bill is as follows: culture is the number one industry in charges Jews with conspiring to harm hu- H.R. 672 manity, and it is often used to blame Jews our State. It is what makes North Da- Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- for ‘‘why things go wrong’’. It is expressed in kota what North Dakota is: the ability resentatives of the United States of America in speech, writing, visual forms, and action, to feed hungry people in a growing Congress assembled, and employs sinister stereotypes and nega- world. Ed brought that common sense SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. tive character traits. to USDA and that work ethic that This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Combating SEC. 3. SENSE OF CONGRESS. works the land so effectively. European Anti-Semitism Act of 2017’’. It is the sense of Congress that—

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00049 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.078 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4276 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 (1) it is in the national interest of the Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- Now is the time to act and pass this United States to combat anti-Semitism at er, I yield myself such time as I may important measure. home and abroad; consume. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of (2) anti-Semitism is a challenge to the Mr. Speaker, I would like to begin by my time. basic principles of tolerance, pluralism, and Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- democracy, and the shared values that bind thanking my colleagues NITA LOWEY Americans and Europeans together; and Chairman Emeritus ILEANA ROS- self such time as I may consume. (3) there is an urgent need to ensure the LEHTINEN for their leadership on the Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this safety and security of European Jewish com- Bipartisan Task Force for Combating measure. Let me start by thanking the munities, including synagogues, schools, Anti-Semitism and for their good work gentlewoman from New York (Mrs. cemeteries, and other institutions; on this timely and important bill. LOWEY), my good friend and neighbor, (4) the United States should continue to Mr. Speaker, I will lay out this case, the ranking member of the Committee emphasize the importance of combating but it is one we are familiar with. Hos- on Appropriations. anti-Semitism in multilateral bodies, includ- tility towards the Jewish people in I also want to thank Chairman ROYCE ing the United Nations, European Union institutions, and the Organization for Security some European cities is very deep, for his steadfast support in bringing and Cooperation in Europe; making Jews in certain areas look over this bill to the floor today. (5) the Department of State should con- their shoulders, afraid to walk the Mr. Speaker, it is so shocking and so tinue to thoroughly document acts of anti- streets at night. In recent years, this heartbreaking to me that, in the year Semitism and anti-Semitic incitement that surge in anti-Semitism has led to an 2017, we wake up day after day to read occur around the world, and should continue outbreak of violent attacks. about anti-Semitic vandalism and vio- to encourage other countries to do the same, Those violent attacks are targeting lence, anti-Semitic slurs on Munich and share their findings; and certain Jewish neighbors. They are tar- buses, Russian so-called law makers (6) the Department of State should con- pedaling anti-Semite conspiracy theo- tinue to work to encourage adoption by na- geting places of worship. I think back tional government institutions and multilat- to 2015, the deadly attacks on the ko- ries, horrific murders in a kosher mar- eral institutions of a working definition of sher supermarket in Paris and, later ket in Paris 2 years ago. Of course, Mr. anti-Semitism similar to the one adopted in on, the synagogue in Copenhagen. Speaker, here in our own country, the International Holocaust Remembrance European governments have since bomb threats to Jewish community Alliance context. passed laws designed to better protect centers, desecration of cemeteries. Ac- SEC. 4. ANNUAL REPORTING ON THE STATE OF their Jewish citizens, designed to pun- tually, I can hardly believe it. ANTI-SEMITISM IN EUROPE. ish those who perpetrate anti-Semitic We know this ancient hatred has Paragraph (1) of section 102(b) of the Inter- never been extinguished. It has always national Religious Freedom Act of 1998 (22 incidents, but much more work re- U.S.C. 6412) is amended by adding at the end mains to be done because there needs found some dark corner in which to fes- the following new subparagraph: to be a better coordination on these ef- ter until some new group on the fringe ‘‘(G) ANTI-SEMITISM IN EUROPE.—In addition forts between Jewish communities and tries to pull it back into the main- to the information required under clause law enforcement and more comprehen- stream. I fear we are seeing that sort of (vii) of subparagraph (A), with respect to sive reporting on the incidents to iden- resurgence right now. each European country in which verbal or tify trends, to identify problematic re- When we hear these toxic ideas ema- physical threats or attacks are particularly gions. nating from major political parties and significant against Jewish persons, places of In addition, in order to consistently governing bodies in Europe, we know it worship, schools, cemeteries, and other religious institutions, a description of— apply anti-Semitism laws throughout is time for action. It needs to be ‘‘(i) the security challenges and needs of Europe, there needs to be a uniform stopped, and this bill will help. European Jewish communities and European legal understanding of what con- This legislation builds on the 1998 law enforcement agencies in such countries stitutes anti-Semitism. International Religious Freedom Act, to better protect such communities; Let me explain. We must be clear on which established annual reporting on ‘‘(ii) to the extent practicable, the efforts this. The fire bombing of synagogues is religious freedom worldwide, as well as of the United States Government over the not a political protest. The defacing of the 2004 Global Anti-Semitism Review reporting period to partner with European cemeteries, the yelling slurs at rabbis, Act, which required the State Depart- law enforcement agencies and civil society ment to report every year on anti-Sem- groups regarding the sharing of information the threatening of Jewish school chil- and best practices to combat anti-Semitic dren, this is not political protest. This itism around the world. incidents in Europe; is anti-Semitism, and it must be This measure calls for continued and ‘‘(iii) European educational programming stopped. enhanced reporting on anti-Semitic in- and public awareness initiatives that aim to Absent a clear-eyed definition of cidents in Europe. We want to focus on collaborate on educational curricula and anti-Semitism, perpetrators of violent what has been a hotbed of anti-Semi- campaigns that impart shared values of plu- acts have, at times, been given a pass tism in recent years so that no active ralism and tolerance, and showcase the posi- for their actions due to the flimsy de- anti-Semitic hatred goes unnoticed. tive contributions of Jews in culture, schol- fense of political protest. This bill also expresses our view in arship, science, and art, with special attention to those segments of the population Adoption across Europe of a single Congress that it is in our country’s in- that exhibit a high degree of anti-Semitic definition of anti-Semitism would pro- terest to combat anti-Semitism here animus; and vide an important foundation for law and abroad; that it is critical to ensure ‘‘(iv) efforts by European governments to enforcement officials, enabling them to the safety of European Jewish commu- adopt and apply a working definition of anti- better enforce laws and develop strate- nities; that multilateral organizations Semitism.’’. gies for improved security for the Jew- like the U.N. and OSCE have an impor- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ish community. tant role to play in combating anti- ant to the rule, the gentleman from This bill, H.R. 672, the Combating Eu- Semitism; that we should continue to California (Mr. ROYCE) and the gen- ropean Anti-Semitism Act of 2017, calls report anti-Semitic acts worldwide; tleman from New York (Mr. ENGEL) for these fundamental improvements, and that our allies should follow our each will control 20 minutes. and it reaffirms the U.S. commitment lead and document anti-Semitic acts The Chair recognizes the gentleman to combating anti-Semitism. It urges when they take place so we can share from California. European nations to adopt a working our findings amongst ourselves. GENERAL LEAVE definition of anti-Semitism. It calls for We also call on the State Department Mr. ROYCE of California. I ask unan- increased reporting on it. to adopt the working definition of anti- imous consent that all Members may Anti-Semitic incidents in Europe Semitism used by the International have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- have to be reported in a way in which Holocaust Remembrance Alliance, be- tend their remarks and to include any people can be held accountable. Col- cause words do matter when it comes extraneous material in the RECORD. laborative efforts between U.S. and Eu- to the way we talk about this chal- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ropean law enforcement and the efforts lenge. objection to the request of the gen- to improve security for Jewish commu- It is absolutely amazing that 70- tleman from California? nities is another important aspect of some-odd years after World War II There was no objection. this legislation. ended—and that decade culminated in

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00050 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.039 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4277 the murder of 6 million Jews in Europe b 1630 I also want to thank my good friend in the Holocaust, men, women, and Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 NITA LOWEY because she is the author children—it is absolutely unbelievable minutes to the gentlewoman from New of this bill, but I want to thank her for that 70 years later you would see anti- York (Mrs. LOWEY), my good friend, my her leadership in fighting anti-Semi- Semitism in the same places in Europe fellow New Yorker, the author of this tism across the world. She has been at rear its ugly head by stupid people who bill, and the ranking member of the this fight for many a year. We have don’t know what they are saying or Committee on Appropriations. worked closely together on defeating doing. It is just amazing. You think Mrs. LOWEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank this hatred, one of the world’s oldest there would be some kind of sensitivity my good friends, Chairman ED ROYCE forms of discrimination. I am proud to about the Holocaust and about all the and Ranking Member ELIOT ENGEL, and be an original cosponsor of her bill, and innocent people who were murdered for all those involved in advancing this I thank the gentlewoman from New just the one reason that they were Jew- important legislation. York. ish, and yet you see no-nothings, as far I rise in support of H.R. 672, the Com- Mr. Speaker, this bill is an important as I am concerned, popping up again bating European Anti-Semitism Act, initiative for our Bipartisan Taskforce with their anti-Semitic hatred. It is which was introduced by the co-chairs for Combating Anti-Semitism, a task bad wherever it goes, but it is espe- of the Bipartisan Taskforce for Com- force of which I am proud to be a co- cially repugnant to have it in Europe, bating Anti-Semitism. founder and a co-chair along with Mrs. With the rising threat of anti-Semi- the site of the murder of 6 million Jew- LOWEY, Mr. ENGEL, of course CHRIS tism in Europe, this bill would require ish people. SMITH, TED DEUTCH, KAY GRANGER, enhanced reporting to Congress on I am very grateful to Representative PETER ROSKAM, MARC VEASEY, so many anti-Semitic incidents in Europe, the LOWEY for her hard work on this bill. I good Members. But more than that, safety and security of European Jewish am pleased to support it. Mr. Speaker, it is an important initia- communities, and the efforts of the Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of tive for the Jewish communities across United States to partner with Euro- my time. Europe who have been facing a trou- pean entities to combat anti-Semitism. Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- bling increase in anti-Semitic inci- er, I yield 2 minutes to the gentleman This bill also urges the Department of State to continue encouraging Euro- dents and attacks over the past years from Texas (Mr. POE), chairman of the that have put their safety and their se- Foreign Affairs’ Subcommittee on Ter- pean governments and multilateral institutions to adopt a clear and com- curity at risk. rorism, Nonproliferation, and Trade. Mr. Speaker, all across Europe, Jews Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, I prehensive working definition of anti- Semitism. have been targeted. Their places of thank the chairman for yielding me worship have been targeted, their time, and I thank the chairman and I find it hard to believe that in the 21st century European Jews worry homes, targeted; their businesses, tar- the ranking member for their com- about whether or not there is a future geted. Why? Because of their faith. ments on this legislation. The bill pro- for their communities in Europe. But They have been the target of deadly motes religious freedom throughout with increased anti-Semitic sentiments attacks in European cities, democratic the world. throughout Europe and many Jews be- societies that we call allies: France, Mr. Speaker, as has been mentioned, coming the targets of verbal, physical, Belgium, Denmark, elsewhere—hor- it has been 60 to 70 years since the Jew- and even deadly terrorist attacks, the rific. This is simply unconscionable, ish community in Europe was deci- security and quality of life for Euro- Mr. Speaker. mated by the Holocaust. Now, more pean Jewish communities has deterio- There is no time to delay in taking than ever, the Jewish community is rated. This is simply unacceptable. action. We cannot allow for an atmos- under assault yet again. Anti-Semitism is not simply a Jew- In Europe, anti-Semitic individuals phere of intolerance and hatred to once ish problem. Xenophobia and other again rear its ugly head in Europe. are back like never before. A study forms of racism are never far behind commissioned by the German par- That is why this bill is an important when this pernicious threat rears its first step. liament this year found that there ugly head. The United States must re- were 644 anti-Semitic offenses in the We have identified growing anti-Sem- main a leader in the fight against anti- itism as a problem before, but this bill country in 2016 alone. Semitism wherever it occurs to ensure In countries like Holland, Jewish will enhance reporting requirements so that our commitment to ‘‘never again’’ that we can more acutely identify the schools and synagogues need to be pro- remains a reality. tected by special forces because of fear problems and, equally important, Mr. Finally, I want to express my appre- Speaker, we can identify the security of attack on those schools. ciation to my fellow co-chairs of the And, unfortunately, our country has challenges facing these Jewish commu- Bipartisan Taskforce for Combating nities. Then we can learn how to best not been immune. Jewish community Anti-Semitism, Representatives SMITH, centers across the country have been tackle this, and we can learn how we ENGEL, GRANGER, DEUTCH, ROS- can partner with our European allies targets of bomb threats, even recently LEHTINEN, VEASEY, and ROSKAM. The and our friends and local law enforce- in Houston, Texas, my hometown, such task force remains committed to work- ment, along with civil society, to pro- bomb threats. ing across regions, religions, and party tect against anti-Semitic acts. We can This past Sunday, a historic syna- lines to condemn all anti-Semitism and get a better understanding of how our gogue in New York City was attacked fight for the right of Jews to live freely partners in Europe can better educate and burned down by arsonists. That is without fear at home and abroad. why this bill, the Combating European Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- their children. We can get a handle on Anti-Semitism Act, is so important. er, I yield 3 minutes to the gentle- how to better promote awareness in their societies to the dangers of such We must continue to partner with our woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- blind hatred. European friends to ensure that we LEHTINEN), who chairs the Foreign Af- stamp out the cancer of anti-Semitism. fairs Subcommittee on the Middle East In closing, Mr. Speaker, I want to say As a representative of a country and North Africa and is our chairman that the first step in fighting anti- founded on religious freedom, we, as emeritus. Semitism is identifying the problem Members of Congress, must send a Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I areas and then developing a plan to ad- clear message to Jews and non-Jews, want to thank the chairman and the dress it. This bill will help us identify from Houston to Amsterdam, that we ranking member for working to help the problem. It is an important first will not allow the horrors of the Holo- bring this important bill to the floor in step in taking the necessary action to caust to repeat themselves in this gen- a timely manner and, more impor- protect the Jewish communities of Eu- eration. tantly, for conducting the affairs of our rope. I urge my colleagues to support Mr. Speaker, we must reiterate the full committee in an even-tempered, this important bill. commitment the free world made over professional manner that is an example Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- 60 years ago: Never again. Never again. to the rest of the House. It is an honor self such time as I may consume to And that is just the way it is. to serve under their leadership. close.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:08 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00051 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.082 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4278 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 Let me first say, I agree with all the ROS-LEHTINEN and, of course, Mr. The question was taken; and (two- eloquent statements made by my col- ENGEL, the ranking member. I urge my thirds being in the affirmative) the leagues on both sides of the aisle per- colleagues to join me in support of this rules were suspended and the bill, as taining to this bill. bill. amended, was passed. I want to thank Mrs. LOWEY, again, Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance A motion to reconsider was laid on because it is a really important bill. It of my time. the table. is really important that we don’t sweep Mr. SMITH of New Jersey. Mr. Speaker, I f this under the rug. It is really impor- rise today in support of H.R. 672, the Com- EXPRESSING THE SENSE OF THE tant that we don’t try to hide it or sug- bating Anti-Semitism Act of 2017, sponsored HOUSE REGARDING THE FIGHT arcoat it. Whether it happens here, by my friend NITA LOWEY. I and all of our fel- AGAINST CORRUPTION IN CEN- whether it happens in Europe, no mat- low Co-Chairs of the Bi-Partisan Task Force TRAL AMERICA ter where it happens, any form of anti- for Combating Anti-Semitism are original co- Semitism, any form of hatred of one sponsors. Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- group toward another needs to be Among its provisions, the bill would require er, I move to suspend the rules and roundly condemned and stopped. That the State Department to include in existing an- agree to the resolution (H. Res. 145) expressing the sense of the House of Rep- is what we are trying to do here. nual reports information about the security resentatives regarding the fight It hasn’t even been a century since challenges and needs of European Jewish against corruption in Central America, we heard this canary in the coal mine: communities and European law enforcement. as amended. This report would also document related U.S. political parties scapegoating Jews; in- The Clerk read the title of the resolu- sidious campaigns that question the government efforts to partner with European tion. humanity of Jewish populations or law enforcement agencies and civil society The text of the resolution is as fol- their legitimacy as members of certain groups. lows: H.R. 672 is important and timely. As wit- societies; governments, popularly H. RES. 145 elected governments, saying that it nesses testified at a hearing I chaired in Whereas according to Transparency Inter- was okay to hate. March on ‘‘Anti-Semitism Across Borders,’’ national’s 2016 Corruption Perception Index, We don’t think it is okay to hate. physical attacks on European Jewish commu- the citizens of Honduras, Guatemala, El Sal- That is why we are doing this. What we nities, and other forms of anti-Semitic hatred, vador, and Nicaragua perceive high levels of hear today is unnerving in light of that remain rampant on the continent. Rabbi Andy government corruption; history. Baker, Personal Representative of the OSCE Whereas widespread corruption in Central Mr. Speaker, we know what happened Chairperson-in-Office on Combating Anti-Sem- America weakens citizens’ faith in public in- when too few good people stood up and itism and Director of International Jewish Af- stitutions, limits government capacity to ad- spoke out. We cannot allow that his- fairs at the American Jewish Committee noted vance development goals, and allows drug traffickers and other criminals to thrive; tory to repeat. We must do whatever it that even after the deadly anti-Semitic attacks Whereas the International Commission takes to ensure that it doesn’t. in Paris, Brussels and Copenhagen, ‘‘prob- against Impunity in Guatemala (CICIG) was This bill will help us address a part of lems still remain. Governments have taken dif- created at the request of the Guatemalan this growing concern. It will shine a ferent approaches, and some only in stop-gap Government in 2007, and has strengthened bright light on the resurgence of anti- measures.’’ Rabbi Baker also emphasized that the capacity of Guatemalan institutions, es- Semitism in Europe. It is just a piece ‘‘We need to be clear-eyed in confronting and pecially the Office of the Attorney General, of the puzzle, but it is a good start. combating anti-Semitism, which manifests to combat corruption; I am proud to stand with my col- itself on both the right and the left.’’ Whereas the Office of the Attorney General leagues today to support this measure. At the same hearing, Paul Goldenberg, Di- of Guatemala and CICIG have recently col- laborated to investigate and prosecute a se- I urge all Members to do the same. rector of the Security Community Network and ries of corruption cases involving high-level I thank the others on this side of the Senior Advisor to the Rutgers University Faith- government officials, demonstrating that it aisle and the other side of the aisle who Based Communities Security Program, warned is possible for governments in Central Amer- have spoken on this, especially Chair- that ‘‘Ever-more connected, extremist groups ica to confront entrenched corruption, and man ROYCE. in the United States are borrowing, adapting that no one is above the law; I urge my colleagues to support this and enhancing the tactics and strategies Whereas the Attorney General of El Sal- bill. adopted in Europe.’’ This is an especially so- vador has made significant progress in tack- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance bering warning, given the man recent anti-Se- ling corruption at the highest levels; of my time. Whereas after thousands of Hondurans mitic incidents here in the United States. joined street protests against corruption and Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- Mark Weitzman, Director of Government Af- in favor of an International Commission er, I yield myself such time as I may fairs for the Simon Wiesenthal Center, empha- against Impunity in Honduras, the Honduran consume. sized that ‘‘Fighting antisemitism has always Government reached an agreement with the First, let me say that the words just been a bipartisan commitment and in today’s Organization of American States to create spoken by Ranking Member ELIOT fractured political world it is more necessary the Mission to Support the Fight against ENGEL are precisely the sentiment that than ever that the U.S. maintain its diplomatic Corruption and Impunity in Honduras I think we all wish to convey. We must and moral leadership in this issue. . . . we (MACCIH); do all we can to combat anti-Semitism Whereas MACCIH has begun to assist the would strongly suggest that the position [of Office of the Attorney General of Honduras in all of its insidious forms, and we do Special Envoy to Monitor and Combat Anti- with the investigation into the more than it because the consequences, the horri- Semitism] even be upgraded, to that of Am- $300,000,000 that was embezzled from the In- fying consequences of doing nothing in bassador, thus demonstrating the importance stitute of Social Security; and the face of such evil, are unconscion- attached by our government to this issue.’’ Whereas the leadership of CICIG and able. We must not repeat the mistakes H.R. 672 is an example of such bi-partisan- MACCIH and the attorneys general of Hon- of the past by remaining silent, as this ship. It would ensure that the Special Envoy, duras, Guatemala, and El Salvador have same poison affects our communities other U.S. officials, the Congress, and civil so- faced significant challenges, including cred- today. ciety—especially European Jewish commu- ible threats against their lives, attempts to Passage of this bill sends a clear sig- publicly discredit their work, or efforts to nities that their security groups—have key in- remove them from their posts: Now, there- nal that anti-Semitism has no place in formation to act fully and effectively. With the fore, be it free societies and urges our European right information, and robust action, the United Resolved, That the House of Representa- partners to provide practical guidance States can help ensure the safety and security tives— that will empower law enforcement and of Jewish communities in Europe and else- (1) reaffirms that combating corruption in better equip them to tackle this rising where. the Northern Triangle is an important policy problem, and it sends the message that The SPEAKER pro tempore. The interest for the United States; our own law enforcement is willing to question is on the motion offered by (2) acknowledges that the International Commission against Impunity in Guatemala work hand in hand with theirs in order the gentleman from California (Mr. (CICIG) and the Mission to Support the to tackle this problem. ROYCE) that the House suspend the Fight against Corruption and Impunity in I appreciate the work of Congress- rules and pass the bill, H.R. 672, as Honduras (MACCIH) are currently making woman LOWEY and Congresswoman amended. important contributions to this effort;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:08 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00052 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.083 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4279 (3) urges the Government of Guatemala to these countries confidence in their own port the Fight Against Corruption and continue to cooperate with CICIG and the judiciary. These organizations have put Impunity in Honduras. Government of Honduras to continue to co- politicians and public servants on no- These brave individuals put their operate with MACCIH; and tice that nobody should be above the lives on the line on a daily basis. This (4) encourages the Governments of Hon- duras, Guatemala, and El Salvador to— law and that their citizenry demands resolution that we are voting on sig- (A) publicly support efforts to fight corrup- transparency. nals that the United States agrees with tion; For example, this special body in them and has their backs. (B) respect the independence of the judicial Honduras has begun to assist the Office To Guatemala’s Attorney General branch and the Office of the Attorney Gen- of the Attorney General with the inves- Thelma Aldana, Honduran Attorney eral; and tigation into the more than $300 mil- General Oscar Chinchilla, Salvadoran (C) ensure that the Office of the Attorney lion that was embezzled from the Insti- Attorney General Douglas Melendez, General in each Northern Triangle country tute of Social Security and, in Guate- CICIG Commissioner Ivan Velasquez, receives sufficient domestic budget alloca- and MACCIH Chief of Mission Juan Ji- tions to carry out its core responsibilities mala, has trained the prosecutors that and that budgeted funds are delivered in a successfully built high-profile corrup- menez: Today we come to the floor of timely manner. tion cases against multiple govern- the House of Representatives to say The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- ment officials, including the former thank you and to proclaim that we ant to the rule, the gentleman from Guatemalan President, President stand with you and your institutions in the fight against corruption. California (Mr. ROYCE) and the gen- Molina. This measure sends a strong message tleman from New York (Mr. ENGEL) b 1645 that our Congress, which has the ulti- each will control 20 minutes. Once again, I want to thank Rep- mate say over funding for Central The Chair recognizes the gentleman resentative TORRES for bringing this America, stands with those who are from California. measure forward and for her efforts in committed to putting an end to corrup- GENERAL LEAVE working with the Northern Triangle tion in El Salvador, Guatemala, and Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- countries to urge greater respect for an Honduras. er, I ask unanimous consent that all independent judiciary and to bring We may have a new President in the Members may have 5 legislative days greater security and prosperity to the White House and a new Secretary of to revise and extend their remarks and people of the Northern Triangle coun- State at Foggy Bottom, but Congress to include any extraneous materials in tries. continues to have the power of the the RECORD. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of purse; and Democrats and Republicans, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there my time. alike, believe that continued inter- objection to the request of the gen- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- national support for the attorneys gentleman from California? self such time as I may consume. eral and CICIG and MACCIH is key to There was no objection. Mr. Speaker, I rise in strong support the continued success of the Alliance Mr. ROYCE of California. I yield my- of this measure. for Prosperity in the Northern Tri- self such time as I may consume. Let me start by thanking the chair- angle. Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of H. man of the Foreign Affairs Committee, In December, I led a letter to the at- Res. 145, which affirms this body’s sup- ED ROYCE, from California. I am also torneys general from El Salvador, Gua- port for the independent especially grateful to another col- temala, and Honduras, along with Rep- anticorruption commissions in Central league from California, NORMA TORRES, resentative ROS-LEHTINEN and several America that seek to combat corrup- a valuable member of the Foreign Af- other members of the Foreign Affairs tion and combat impunity in the coun- fairs Committee, for authoring this bi- Committee, commending their efforts, tries of the Northern Triangle region. partisan resolution, and also for her pledging our ongoing support, and, I would like to commend the gentle- leadership as the founding co-chair of most importantly, noting how crucial woman from California (Mrs. TORRES), the Central America Caucus. it is that they be able to carry out a new member of the committee, for Mr. Speaker, when a child from El their work free from any interference her work on this important resolution. Salvador, Guatemala, or Honduras ar- from political leaders in their coun- Of course, I appreciate Mr. ENGEL, the rives at our southern border, he or she tries. With passage of H. Res. 145, the ranking member and the former chair- didn’t get there because it was an easy entire House of Representatives can man of the Subcommittee on the West- journey. It was because poverty, crime, and will send that same message. ern Hemisphere, for his long-time focus or lack of opportunity at home left Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to on this critical region. that child no option but to face that support this important resolution, and Mr. Speaker, in recent years, the long, dangerous trek. No child any- I reserve the balance of my time. U.S. has seen a surge in illegal migra- where should be forced to make that Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- tion from El Salvador, Guatemala, and heartbreaking choice. er, I yield 4 minutes to the gentle- Honduras. Now, that is the Northern The best way to ensure that this woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- Triangle of Central America. doesn’t happen is not to build a wall or LEHTINEN), who chairs the Foreign Af- Many of these migrants are fleeing isolate ourselves from our neighbors. It fairs Subcommittee on the Middle East violence. They are fleeing criminality is to stop children from having to and North Africa. and institutionalized corruption. More make that journey in the first place. It Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I than anything, the citizens of these is by making long-term, strategic in- thank the chairman for the time. countries want governments that will vestments in a more secure and pros- I applaud the work that both Chair- work for them. perous Central America. man ROYCE and Ranking Member As a result of these governments, the Over the last 2 years, Democrats and ENGEL have done in helping to focus international community has re- Republicans in Congress have come to- more of our foreign policy priority here sponded. Governments in the region, gether to do just that. We made a bold, in our own Western Hemisphere. including the United States, have new foreign assistance commitment to I also applaud Congresswoman helped to establish the International Central America that helps address the NORMA TORRES for authoring the meas- Commission Against Impunity in Gua- root causes of child migration from the ure that we have before us today, H. temala—that is called CICIG—and the region. Res. 145, reaffirming our dedication to Mission to Support the Fight against A big part of this effort is supporting the fight against corruption in Central Corruption and Impunity in Honduras, those individuals who are working day America. It is an important measure, known as MACCIH. in and day out to root out corruption Mr. Speaker, and it is an important Both of these organizations are mak- in Central America: the attorneys gen- fight. ing important contributions to tack- eral in El Salvador, Guatemala, and For years, I have been a strong advo- ling the culture of corruption and im- Honduras; the heads of the Inter- cate for this fight because, where cor- punity in their respective countries national Commission Against Impunity ruption is allowed to spread, drug traf- and are working to give the citizens of in Guatemala; and the Mission to Sup- ficking and crime inevitably thrive;

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In the last 2 This resolution makes it clear that to Honduras and Guatemala with my years, young people from across the re- the United States strongly supports good friend ALBIO SIRES, and we saw gion have taken to the streets and the anticorruption efforts in the North- firsthand how these governments are demonstrated, and some real progress ern Triangle of Central America. Al- attempting to tackle corruption in has been made. ready, officials across the region are their countries. It is not easy, Mr. In Guatemala, Honduras, and El Sal- making headway. The attorney general Speaker. They are making progress and vador, the attorneys general have dem- of Guatemala, in particular, has made taking some of the tough decisions nec- onstrated independence and real cour- progress in taking on corruption at the essary, but there is so much more to be age. highest levels of government. done and so much more that they need In Guatemala, Attorney General This resolution will reinforce support to do, but they need help from the Thelma Aldana has worked closely for these efforts in the region and will United States. with CICIG, the International Commis- send a clear message to the millions of That is what we heard when we sion Against Impunity in Guatemala. people who live in El Salvador, Guate- hosted the attorneys general from the Under the leadership of Ivan Velasquez, mala, and Honduras that the United Northern Triangle countries here in CICIG has been instrumental in im- States wants them to have a safe coun- Washington, D.C., just last month to proving the capacity of Guatemala’s try, free of corrupt officials who steal discuss what they are doing to fight prosecutors and has assisted with effec- from them. By supporting the efforts of our allies corruption and what assistance they tive investigations into corruption and to fight corruption, it is my hope that might need from us. That is why this human rights violations. these governments will continue to resolution before us is so important In Honduras, Attorney General Oscar promote respect for the rule of law, Chinchilla has worked with the Mission and so timely. thereby making it better for residents We must urge the governments of to Support the Fight Against Corrup- to live, work, and raise a family in Central America to do more to battle tion and Impunity in Honduras, their homelands. corruption, but we also must pledge to MACCIH, since 2016. Led by Juan Ji- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- do more ourselves because they cannot menez, MACCIH has promoted impor- self such time as I may consume. do it alone. Central American govern- tant legal reforms and is assisting with Let me say that, as a father, I cannot ments must take a stand and voice the investigations of high-profile cor- imagine being faced with the choice of their support for anticorruption pro- ruption cases. letting my children risk violence or grams. They must respect and defend In El Salvador, Attorney General death from criminal gangs or malnutri- the authority of the judicial branch, Douglas Melendez has made significant tion, or taking a dangerous journey and they must make it a priority. That progress in tackling high-level corrup- hundreds of miles on their own. No paris not easy for them to do. tion cases. I hope that the Government ent or child should ever be forced to Some of these governments have of El Salvador will recognize the value make this choice. Unfortunately, far shown a willingness to take these of CICIG and MACCIH and accept the too many families in El Salvador, Gua- steps, but, sadly, Mr. Speaker, not all international assistance that the attor- temala, and Honduras must do so on a of them have. While we urge willing ney general and his prosecutors so daily basis. partners to take the steps necessary to clearly need. The good news is that our Congress fight corruption, we must be willing to Mr. Speaker, the countries of the has decided to make a much-needed, do more for those unwilling. Northern Triangle are at a crucial long-term investment in Central Amer- That is why I have reintroduced my point in this fight against corruption, ica. At the core of these efforts is our NICA Act, which aims at tightening and we cannot turn back the progress commitment to support institutions the economic screws on the Ortega re- that has been made. This resolution and individuals that are rooting out gime until we see some drastic reforms, will send a very clear message that the corruption. including efforts to end corruption. It United States will be a steadfast part- H. Res. 145 makes it clear that our is our duty to support our neighbors so ner in its support for the fight against continued investment in Central Amer- that our partners to the south can live corruption in Central America. ica will depend on support for in far more open, free, and democratic I urge all of my colleagues to support anticorruption efforts from the Salva- societies. this bipartisan resolution. doran, Guatemalan, and Honduran It is also in the benefit of our secu- Mr. Speaker, in closing, I thank Governments. rity and it is in the benefit of our na- Chairman ROYCE and Ranking Member Let me finally note that I am heart- tional interests to do so. That is why I ENGEL for their support and hard work ened that the fight against corruption urge my colleagues to support H. Res. in advancing this resolution. in the hemisphere is not just limited to 145. I also urge my colleagues to sup- Additionally, I thank Congressman Central America. From Brazil to Chile port my NICA Act and to take a more MOOLENAAR, who worked with me to to the Caribbean, the citizens of the engaged role in our foreign policy in- draft and introduce this resolution and Americas have finally had enough and terests in our own Western Hemi- who has been a strong supporter and have vowed to put an end to corruption sphere. advocate of the fight against corrup- once and for all. The least that our Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, it is now tion in Central America. Congress can do is support these val- my pleasure to yield 4 minutes to the I also thank all of the cosponsors of iant efforts. I again thank Chairman ROYCE for gentlewoman from California (Mrs. this resolution. working so well with me, putting our TORRES), the author of this resolution, Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- heads together over time, and passing a leader on Central American issues, er, I thank Congresswoman NORMA good resolutions and legislation like and a valued member of the Foreign TORRES for authoring this bill. Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the this. Affairs Committee. I again thank Congresswoman Mrs. TORRES. Mr. Speaker, I rise in gentleman from Michigan (Mr. TORRES for introducing this crucial strong support of H. Res. 145, express- MOOLENAAR), a member of the Com- resolution and for her hard work on it. ing the support of the House of Rep- mittee on Appropriations. Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to resentatives for the fight against cor- Mr. MOOLENAAR. Mr. Speaker, I support its passage, and I yield back ruption in Central America. also thank Chairman ROYCE and Rank- the balance of my time. In too many Central American coun- ing Member ENGEL for supporting this tries, it has become common practice bipartisan resolution and moving it b 1700 for government officials to use public through the Foreign Affairs Com- Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- office to enrich themselves instead of mittee. self such time as I may consume.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00054 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.087 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4281 Mr. Speaker, this important measure Sec. 102. Prohibitions with respect to the more than 90 people died, including women by Congresswoman NORMA TORRES af- transfer of arms and related and children, and more than 600 hundred peo- firms this body’s support for all efforts materials to Syria. ple were injured, is condemned in the strong- to combat corruption in Central Amer- Sec. 103. Rule of construction. est terms; Sec. 104. Definitions. (5) violent attacks resulting in death, in- ica. The people of this region have been jury, imprisonment or threat of prosecution living in societies that, because of cor- TITLE II—AMENDMENTS TO SYRIA HUMAN RIGHTS ACCOUNTABILITY ACT against humanitarian aid workers and diplo- ruption, and that corruption has be- OF 2012 matic personnel, as well as attacks on hu- come endemic, has led to gang vio- manitarian supplies, facilities, transports, Sec. 201. Imposition of sanctions with re- lence, to criminality, to high levels of and assets, and acts to impede the access and spect to certain persons who secure movement of all humanitarian per- impunity. And these conditions di- are responsible for or complicit sonnel are in violation of international hu- rectly affect the ability of these gov- in human rights abuses com- manitarian law and impede the lifesaving ernments to bring peace and prosperity mitted against citizens of Syria work of humanitarian organizations and dip- to all of its citizens, and that, in turn, or their family members. lomatic institutions; and Sec. 202. Imposition of sanctions with re- fuels the flows of those who leave ille- (6) Assad’s continued claim of leadership spect to the transfer of goods or gally, migrants, to the Northern Hemi- and war crimes in Syria have served as a ral- technologies to Syria that are sphere—well, to the United States. lying point for the extremist ideology of the likely to be used to commit So the citizens of Northern Triangle Islamic State, Jabhat al-Nusra, and other human rights abuses. countries, those in this region, want to terrorist organizations. Sec. 203. Imposition of sanctions with re- live in safety in their own countries, spect to persons who hinder hu- SEC. 3. STATEMENT OF POLICY. and we can help by supporting efforts manitarian access. It is the policy of the United States that by the International Commission Sec. 204. Report on certain persons who are all diplomatic and coercive economic means Against Impunity in Guatemala and its responsible for or complicit in should be utilized to compel the government counterpart in Honduras, and those certain human rights abuses in of Bashar al-Assad to immediately halt the others in the region that are fighting Syria. wholesale slaughter of the Syrian people and to support an immediate transition to a for these efforts that enable an inde- TITLE III—REPORTS AND WAIVER FOR democratic government in Syria that re- pendent judiciary and a judiciary that HUMANITARIAN-RELATED ACTIVITIES spects the rule of law, human rights, and combats corruption. WITH RESPECT TO SYRIA peaceful co-existence with its neighbors. NORMA TORRES’ work on Central Sec. 301. Briefing on monitoring and evalu- TITLE I—ADDITIONAL ACTIONS IN CON- America has helped to build capacity ating of ongoing assistance pro- NECTION WITH THE NATIONAL EMER- in these countries to begin providing grams in Syria and to the Syr- GENCY WITH RESPECT TO SYRIA security for its citizens, and I urge my ian people. Sec. 302. Assessment of potential methods to SEC. 101. SANCTIONS WITH RESPECT TO CEN- colleagues to support this measure. TRAL BANK OF SYRIA AND FOREIGN enhance the protection of civil- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance PERSONS THAT ENGAGE IN CERTAIN ians. TRANSACTIONS. of my time. Sec. 303. Assistance to support entities tak- The SPEAKER pro tempore. The (a) APPLICATION OF CERTAIN MEASURES TO ing actions relating to gath- CENTRAL BANK OF SYRIA.—Except as provided question is on the motion offered by ering evidence for investiga- the gentleman from California (Mr. in subsections (a) and (b) of section 402, the tions into war crimes or crimes President shall apply the measures described ROYCE) that the House suspend the against humanity in Syria in section 5318A(b)(5) of title 31, United rules and agree to the resolution, H. since March 2011. States Code, to the Central Bank of Syria. Res. 145, as amended. TITLE IV—SUSPENSION OF SANCTIONS (b) BLOCKING PROPERTY OF FOREIGN PER- The question was taken; and (two- WITH RESPECT TO SYRIA SONS THAT ENGAGE IN CERTAIN TRANS- thirds being in the affirmative) the Sec. 401. Suspension of sanctions with re- ACTIONS.— rules were suspended and the resolu- spect to Syria. (1) IN GENERAL.—Beginning on and after tion, as amended, was agreed to. Sec. 402. Waivers and exemptions. the date that is 30 days after the date of the enactment of this Act, the President shall A motion to reconsider was laid on TITLE V—REGULATORY AUTHORITY, impose on a foreign person the sanctions de- the table. COST LIMITATION, AND SUNSET scribed in subsection (c) if the President de- f Sec. 501. Implementation and regulatory au- termines that such foreign person, on or CAESAR SYRIA CIVILIAN thorities. after such date of enactment, knowingly en- Sec. 502. Cost limitation. PROTECTION ACT OF 2017 gages in an activity described in paragraph Sec. 503. Authority to consolidate reports. (2). Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, I move to Sec. 504. Sunset. (2) ACTIVITIES DESCRIBED.—A foreign person suspend the rules and pass the bill SEC. 2. SENSE OF CONGRESS. engages in an activity described in this para- (H.R. 1677) to halt the wholesale It is the sense of Congress that— graph if the foreign person— slaughter of the Syrian people, encour- (1) Bashar al-Assad’s murderous actions (A) knowingly provides significant finan- age a negotiated political settlement, against the people of Syria have directly cial, material or technological support to and hold Syrian human rights abusers contributed to the deaths of more than (including engaging in or facilitating a sig- accountable for their crimes, as 480,000 civilians, led to the destruction of nificant transaction or transactions with) or more than 50 percent of Syria’s critical in- provides significant financial services for— amended. frastructure, and forced the displacement of (i) the Government of Syria (including gov- The Clerk read the title of the bill. more than 14,000,000 people, precipitating one ernment entities operating as a business en- The text of the bill is as follows: of the worst humanitarian crises in more terprise) and the Central Bank of Syria, or H.R. 1677 than 60 years; any of its agencies or instrumentalities; or Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- (2) international actions to protect vulner- (ii) a foreign person subject to sanctions resentatives of the United States of America in able populations from attack by uniformed pursuant to— Congress assembled, and irregular forces associated with the (I) the International Emergency Economic SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE AND TABLE OF CON- Assad regime, including Hezbollah, on land Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) with re- TENTS. and by air, including through the use of bar- spect to Syria or any other provision of law (a) SHORT TITLE.—This Act may be cited as rel bombs, chemical weapons, mass starva- that imposes sanctions with respect to the ‘‘Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of tion, industrial-scale torture and execution Syria; or 2017’’. of political dissidents, sniper attacks against (II) a resolution that is agreed to by the (b) TABLE OF CONTENTS.—The table of con- pregnant women, and the deliberate tar- United Nations Security Council that im- tents for this Act is as follows: geting of medical facilities, schools, residen- poses sanctions with respect to Syria; Sec. 1. Short title and table of contents. tial areas, and community gathering places, (B) knowingly— Sec. 2. Sense of Congress. including markets, have been insufficient to (i) sells or provides significant goods, serv- Sec. 3. Statement of policy. date; ices, technology, information, or other sup- TITLE I—ADDITIONAL ACTIONS IN CON- (3) Assad’s use of chemical weapons, in- port that directly and significantly facili- NECTION WITH THE NATIONAL EMER- cluding chlorine, against the Syrian people tates the maintenance or expansion of the GENCY WITH RESPECT TO SYRIA violates the Chemical Weapons Convention, Government of Syria’s domestic production Sec. 101. Sanctions with respect to Central to which Syria is a party; of natural gas or petroleum or petroleum Bank of Syria and foreign per- (4) Assad’s abhorrent use of chemical weap- products of Syrian origin in areas controlled sons that engage in certain ons, most recently on April 4, 2017, in an at- by the Government of Syria or associated transactions. tack on the town of Khan Shakhyn in which forces;

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(ii) sells or provides to the Government of (4) PENALTIES.—The penalties provided for (II) shall automatically cancel any other Syria crude oil or condensate, refined petro- in subsections (b) and (c) of section 206 of the valid visa or entry documentation that is in leum products, liquefied natural gas, or pe- International Emergency Economic Powers the alien’s possession. trochemical products that have a fair mar- Act (50 U.S.C. 1705) shall apply to a person (3) EXCEPTION TO COMPLY WITH UNITED NA- ket value of $500,000 or more or that during that knowingly violates, attempts to violate, TIONS HEADQUARTERS AGREEMENT.—Sanctions a 12-month period have an aggregate fair conspires to violate, or causes a violation of under paragraph (2) shall not apply to an market value of $2,000,000 or more in areas regulations promulgated under section 501(a) alien if admitting the alien into the United controlled by the Government of Syria or as- to carry out paragraph (1) of this subsection States is necessary to permit the United sociated forces; to the same extent that such penalties apply States to comply with the Agreement re- (iii) sells or provides aircraft or spare to a person that knowingly commits an un- garding the Headquarters of the United Na- parts, or provides significant goods, services, lawful act described in section 206(a) of that tions, signed at Lake Success June 26, 1947, or technologies associated with the oper- Act. and entered into force November 21, 1947, be- ation of such aircraft or air carriers to any tween the United Nations and the United foreign person operating in areas controlled SEC. 102. PROHIBITIONS WITH RESPECT TO THE States, or other applicable international ob- TRANSFER OF ARMS AND RELATED by the Government of Syria or associated MATERIALS TO SYRIA. ligations. forces that are used, in whole or in part, for (4) PENALTIES.—A person that violates, at- military purposes; or (a) SANCTIONS.— tempts to violate, conspires to violate, or (iv) sells or provides significant goods, (1) IN GENERAL.—Beginning on and after causes a violation of any regulation, license, services, or technology to a foreign person the date that is 30 days after the date of the or order issued to carry out this section shall operating in the shipping (including ports enactment of this Act, the President shall be subject to the penalties set forth in sub- and free trade zones), transportation, or tele- impose on a foreign person the sanctions de- sections (b) and (c) of section 206 of the communications sectors in areas controlled scribed in subsection (b) if the President de- International Emergency Economic Powers by the Government of Syria or associated termines that such foreign person, on or Act (50 U.S.C. 1705) to the same extent as a forces; after such date of enactment, knowingly ex- person that commits an unlawful act de- (C) knowingly facilitates efforts by a for- ports, transfers, or provides significant fi- scribed in subsection (a) of that section. eign person to carry out an activity de- nancial, material, or technological support SEC. 103. RULE OF CONSTRUCTION. scribed in subparagraph (A) or (B); or to the Government of Syria to— Nothing in this title shall be construed to (D) knowingly provides significant loans, (A) acquire or develop chemical, biological, limit the authority of the President pursu- credits, including export credits, or financ- or nuclear weapons or related technologies; ant to the International Emergency Eco- ing to carry out an activity described in sub- (B) acquire or develop ballistic or cruise nomic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.). missile capabilities; paragraph (A) or (B). SEC. 104. DEFINITIONS. (C) acquire or develop destabilizing num- (c) SANCTIONS AGAINST A FOREIGN PER- In this title: bers and types of advanced conventional SON.—The sanctions to be imposed on a for- (1) ADMITTED; ALIEN.—The terms ‘‘admit- weapons; or eign person described in subsection (b) are ted’’ and ‘‘alien’’ have the meanings given (D) acquire defense articles, defense serv- the following: such terms in section 101 of the Immigration ices, or defense information (as such terms (1) IN GENERAL.—The President shall exer- and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101). are defined under the Arms Export Control cise all of the powers granted to the Presi- (2) FINANCIAL, MATERIAL, OR TECHNOLOGICAL Act (22 U.S.C. 2751 et seq.)), if the President dent under the International Emergency SUPPORT.—The term ‘‘financial, material, or determines that a significant type or amount Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.) technological support’’ has the meaning of such articles, services, or information has to the extent necessary to block and prohibit given such term in section 542.304 of title 31, been so acquired. all transactions in property and interests in Code of Federal Regulations, as such section (2) APPLICABILITY TO OTHER FOREIGN PER- property of the foreign person if such prop- was in effect on the date of the enactment of SONS.—The sanctions described in subsection erty and interests in property are in the this Act. (b) shall also be imposed on any foreign per- United States, come within the United (3) FOREIGN PERSON.—The term ‘‘foreign son that is a successor entity to a foreign States, or are or come within the possession person’’ means any citizen or national of a person described in paragraph (1). or control of a United States person. foreign country, or any entity not organized (2) ALIENS INELIGIBLE FOR VISAS, ADMISSION, (b) SANCTIONS AGAINST A FOREIGN PER- solely under the laws of the United States or OR PAROLE.— SON.—The sanctions to be imposed on a for- existing solely in the United States. (A) VISAS, ADMISSION, OR PAROLE.—An alien eign person described in subsection (a) are (4) GOVERNMENT OF SYRIA.—The term ‘‘Gov- who the Secretary of State or the Secretary the following: ernment of Syria’’ has the meaning given of Homeland Security (or a designee of one of (1) IN GENERAL.—The President shall exer- such term in section 542.305 of title 31, Code such Secretaries) knows, or has reason to be- cise all powers granted by the International of Federal Regulations, as such section was lieve, meets any of the criteria described in Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. in effect on the date of the enactment of this subsection (a) is— 1701 et seq.) to the extent necessary to freeze Act. (i) inadmissible to the United States; and prohibit all transactions in all property (5) KNOWINGLY.—The term ‘‘knowingly’’ (ii) ineligible to receive a visa or other doc- and interests in property of the foreign per- has the meaning given such term in section umentation to enter the United States; and son if such property and interests in prop- 566.312 of title 31, Code of Federal Regula- (iii) otherwise ineligible to be admitted or erty are in the United States, come within tions, as such section was in effect on the paroled into the United States or to receive the United States, or are or come within the date of the enactment of this Act. any other benefit under the Immigration and possession or control of a United States per- (6) PERSON.—The term ‘‘person’’ means an Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.). son. individual or entity. (B) CURRENT VISAS REVOKED.— (2) ALIENS INELIGIBLE FOR VISAS, ADMISSION, (7) PETROLEUM OR PETROLEUM PRODUCTS OF (i) IN GENERAL.—The issuing consular offi- OR PAROLE.— SYRIAN ORIGIN.—The term ‘‘petroleum or pe- cer, the Secretary of State, or the Secretary (A) VISAS, ADMISSION, OR PAROLE.—An alien troleum products of Syrian origin’’ has the of Homeland Security (or a designee of one of who the Secretary of State or the Secretary meaning given such term in section 542.314 of such Secretaries) shall revoke any visa or of Homeland Security (or a designee of one of title 31, Code of Federal Regulations, as such other entry documentation issued to an alien such Secretaries) knows, or has reason to be- section was in effect on the date of the en- who meets any of the criteria described in lieve, meets any of the criteria described in actment of this Act. subsection (a) regardless of when issued. subsection (a) is— (8) SIGNIFICANT TRANSACTION OR TRANS- (ii) EFFECT OF REVOCATION.—A revocation (i) inadmissible to the United States; ACTIONS; SIGNIFICANT FINANCIAL SERVICES.—A under clause (i)— (ii) ineligible to receive a visa or other doc- transaction or transactions or financial serv- (I) shall take effect immediately; and umentation to enter the United States; and ices shall be determined to be a significant (II) shall automatically cancel any other (iii) otherwise ineligible to be admitted or for purposes of this section in accordance valid visa or entry documentation that is in paroled into the United States or to receive with section 566.404 of title 31, Code of Fed- the alien’s possession. any other benefit under the Immigration and eral Regulations, as such section was in ef- (3) EXCEPTION TO COMPLY WITH UNITED NA- Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.). fect on the date of the enactment of this Act. TIONS HEADQUARTERS AGREEMENT.—Sanctions (B) CURRENT VISAS REVOKED.— (9) SYRIA.—The term ‘‘Syria’’ has the under paragraph (2) shall not apply to an (i) IN GENERAL.—The issuing consular offi- meaning given such term in section 542.316 of alien if admitting the alien into the United cer, the Secretary of State, or the Secretary title 31, Code of Federal Regulations, as such States is necessary to permit the United of Homeland Security (or a designee of one of section was in effect on the date of the en- States to comply with the Agreement re- such Secretaries) shall revoke any visa or actment of this Act. garding the Headquarters of the United Na- other entry documentation issued to an alien (10) UNITED STATES PERSON.—The term tions, signed at Lake Success June 26, 1947, who meets any of the criteria described in ‘‘United States person’’ means any United and entered into force November 21, 1947, be- subsection (a) regardless of when issued. States citizen, permanent resident alien, en- tween the United Nations and the United (ii) EFFECT OF REVOCATION.—A revocation tity organized under the laws of the United States, or other applicable international ob- under clause (i)— States (including foreign branches), or any ligations. (I) shall take effect immediately; and person in the United States.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00056 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.042 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4283 TITLE II—AMENDMENTS TO SYRIA HUMAN tive orders, regulations, or other provisions committees an updated list under paragraph RIGHTS ACCOUNTABILITY ACT OF 2012 of law.’’. (1)— SEC. 201. IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS WITH RE- (b) SERIOUS HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES DE- ‘‘(A) not later than 300 days after the date SPECT TO CERTAIN PERSONS WHO SCRIBED.—Section 702 of the Syria Human of the enactment of the Caesar Syria Civil- ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OR Rights Accountability Act of 2012 (22 U.S.C. ian Protection Act of 2017 and every 180 days COMPLICIT IN HUMAN RIGHTS 8791) is amended by adding at the end the fol- thereafter; and ABUSES COMMITTED AGAINST CITI- lowing: ‘‘(B) as new information becomes avail- ZENS OF SYRIA OR THEIR FAMILY ‘‘(d) SERIOUS HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES DE- able. MEMBERS. SCRIBED.—In subsection (b), the term ‘serious ‘‘(3) FORM.—The list required by paragraph (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 702(c) of the human rights abuses’ includes— (1) shall be submitted in unclassified form Syria Human Rights Accountability Act of ‘‘(1) the deliberate targeting of civilian in- but may contain a classified annex.’’; and 2012 (22 U.S.C. 8791(c)) is amended to read as frastructure to include schools, hospitals, (3) in section 706 (as so redesignated), by follows: markets, and other infrastructure that is es- striking ‘‘or 704’’ and inserting ‘‘704, or 705’’. ‘‘(c) SANCTIONS DESCRIBED.— sential to human life, such as power and (b) CLERICAL AMENDMENT.—The table of ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—The President shall exer- water systems; and contents for the Syria Human Rights Ac- cise all powers granted by the International ‘‘(2) the deliberate diversion, hindering, or countability Act of 2012 is amended by in- Emergency Economic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. blocking of access for humanitarian pur- serting after the item relating to section 704 1701 et seq.) to the extent necessary to freeze poses, including access across conflict lines the following new item: and prohibit all transactions in all property and borders.’’. ‘‘Sec. 705. Imposition of sanctions with re- and interests in property of a person on the (c) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments spect to persons who hinder hu- list required by subsection (b) if such prop- made by subsections (a) and (b) shall take ef- manitarian access.’’. erty and interests in property are in the fect on the date of the enactment of this Act United States, come within the United SEC. 204. REPORT ON CERTAIN PERSONS WHO and shall apply with respect to the imposi- ARE RESPONSIBLE FOR OR States, or are or come within the possession tion of sanctions under section 702(a) of the COMPLICIT IN CERTAIN HUMAN or control of a United States person. Syria Human Rights Accountability Act of RIGHTS ABUSES IN SYRIA. ‘‘(2) ALIENS INELIGIBLE FOR VISAS, ADMIS- 2012 on after such date of enactment. (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days SION, OR PAROLE.— SEC. 202. IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS WITH RE- after the date of the enactment of this Act, ‘‘(A) VISAS, ADMISSION, OR PAROLE.—An SPECT TO THE TRANSFER OF GOODS the President shall submit to the appro- alien who the Secretary of State or the Sec- OR TECHNOLOGIES TO SYRIA THAT priate congressional committees a detailed retary of Homeland Security (or a designee ARE LIKELY TO BE USED TO COMMIT report with respect to whether each person of one of such Secretaries) knows, or has rea- HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES. described in subsection (c) meets the require- son to believe, meets any of the criteria de- Section 703(b)(2)(C) of the Syria Human ments described in section 702(b) of the Syria scribed in subsection (b) is— Rights Accountability Act of 2012 (22 U.S.C. Human Rights Accountability Act of 2012 (22 ‘‘(i) inadmissible to the United States; 8792(b)(2)(C)) is amended— U.S.C. 8791(b)) for purposes of inclusion on ‘‘(ii) ineligible to receive a visa or other (1) in clause (i), by striking ‘‘or’’ at the the list of persons who are responsible for or documentation to enter the United States; end; complicit in certain human rights abuses and (2) in clause (ii), by striking the period at under such section. ‘‘(iii) otherwise ineligible to be admitted or the end and inserting a semicolon; and (b) JUSTIFICATION.—The President shall in- paroled into the United States or to receive (3) by adding at the end the following: clude in the report required by subsection (a) any other benefit under the Immigration and ‘‘(iii) any article— a description of the reasons why any of the Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. 1101 et seq.). ‘‘(I) designated by the President for pur- persons described in subsection (c) do not ‘‘(B) CURRENT VISAS REVOKED.— poses of the United States Munitions List meet the requirements described in section ‘‘(i) IN GENERAL.—The issuing consular offi- under section 38(a)(1) of the Arms Export 702(b) of the Syria Human Rights Account- cer, the Secretary of State, or the Secretary Control Act (22 U.S.C. 2778(a)(1)); and ability Act of 2012 (22 U.S.C. 8791(b)), includ- of Homeland Security (or a designee of one of ‘‘(II) with respect to which the President ing information on whether sufficient cred- such Secretaries) shall revoke any visa or determines is significant for purposes of the ible evidence of responsibility for such other entry documentation issued to an alien imposition of sanctions under subsection (a); abuses was found or whether any of the persons described in subsection (c) have been who meets any of the criteria described in or designated pursuant to— subsection (b) regardless of when issued. ‘‘(iv) other goods or technologies that the (1) Executive Order 13572 of April 29, 2011 ‘‘(ii) EFFECT OF REVOCATION.—A revocation President determines may be used by the (76 Fed. Reg. 24787; relating to blocking prop- under clause (i)— Government of Syria to commit human erty of certain persons with respect to ‘‘(I) shall take effect immediately; and rights abuses against the people of Syria.’’. human rights abuses in Syria); ‘‘(II) shall automatically cancel any other SEC. 203. IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS WITH RE- (2) Executive Order 13573 of May 18, 2011 (76 valid visa or entry documentation that is in SPECT TO PERSONS WHO HINDER HUMANITARIAN ACCESS. Fed. Reg. 29143; relating to blocking property the alien’s possession. (a) IN GENERAL.—The Syria Human Rights of senior officials of the Government of ‘‘(3) PENALTIES.—A person that violates, Accountability Act of 2012 (22 U.S.C. 8791 et Syria); attempts to violate, conspires to violate, or seq.) is amended— (3) Executive Order 13582 of August 17, 2011 causes a violation of this section or any reg- (1) by redesignating sections 705 and 706 as (76 Fed. Reg. 52209; relating to blocking prop- ulation, license, or order issued to carry out sections 706 and 707, respectively; erty of the Government of Syria and prohib- this section shall be subject to the penalties (2) by inserting after section 704 the fol- iting certain transactions with respect to set forth in subsections (b) and (c) of section lowing: Syria); or 206 of the International Emergency Eco- ‘‘SEC. 705. IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS WITH RE- (4) Executive Order 13606 of April 22, 2012 nomic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1705) to the SPECT TO PERSONS WHO HINDER (77 Fed. Reg. 24571; relating to blocking the same extent as a person that commits an un- HUMANITARIAN ACCESS. property and suspending entry into the lawful act described in subsection (a) of that ‘‘(a) IN GENERAL.—The President shall im- United States of certain persons with respect section. pose sanctions described in section 702(c) to grave human rights abuses by the Govern- ‘‘(4) REGULATORY AUTHORITY.—The Presi- with respect to each person on the list re- ments of Iran and Syria via information dent shall, not later than 180 days after the quired by subsection (b). technology). date of the enactment of this section, pro- ‘‘(b) LIST OF PERSONS WHO HINDER HUMANI- (c) PERSONS DESCRIBED.—The persons de- mulgate regulations as necessary for the im- TARIAN ACCESS.— scribed in this subsection are the following: plementation of this section. ‘‘(1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 120 days (1) Bashar Al-Assad. ‘‘(5) EXCEPTION TO COMPLY WITH UNITED NA- after the date of the enactment of the Caesar (2) Asma Al-Assad. TIONS HEADQUARTERS AGREEMENT.—Sanctions Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2017, the (3) Rami Makhlouf. under paragraph (2) shall not apply to an President shall submit to the appropriate (4) Bouthayna Shaaban. alien if admitting the alien into the United congressional committees a list of persons (5) Walid Moallem. States is necessary to permit the United that the President determines have engaged (6) Ali Al-Salim. States to comply with the Agreement re- in deliberate diversion, hindering, or block- (7) Wael Nader Al-Halqi. garding the Headquarters of the United Na- ing of access for humanitarian purposes for (8) Jamil Hassan. tions, signed at Lake Success June 26, 1947, the United Nations, its specialized agencies (9) Suhail Hassan. and entered into force November 21, 1947, be- and implementing partners, national and (10) Ali Mamluk. tween the United Nations and the United international nongovernmental organiza- (11) Muhammed Khadour, Deir Ez Zor Mili- States, or other applicable international ob- tions, and all other actors engaged in hu- tary and Security. ligations. manitarian relief activities in Syria, includ- (12) Jamal Razzouq, Security Branch 243. ‘‘(6) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in ing through the deliberate targeting of such (13) Munzer Ghanam, Air Force Intel- this section shall be construed to limit the humanitarian actors and activities in Syria ligence. authority of the President pursuant to the and across conflict lines and borders. (14) Daas Hasan Ali, Branch 327. International Emergency Economic Powers ‘‘(2) UPDATES OF LIST.—The President shall (15) Jassem Ali Jassem Hamad, Political Act (50 U.S.C. 1701 et seq.), relevant Execu- submit to the appropriate congressional Security.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00057 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.042 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4284 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 (16) Samir Muhammad Youssef, Military (2) a description of the memoranda of un- (1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs and Intelligence. derstanding entered into by the Department the Committee on Armed Services of the (17) Ali Ahmad Dayoub, Air Force Intel- of State, the United States Agency for Inter- House of Representatives; and ligence. national Development, and their respective (2) the Committee on Foreign Relations (18) Khaled Muhsen Al-Halabi, Security Inspectors General and the multilateral or- and the Committee on Armed Services of the Branch 335. ganizations through which United States as- Senate. (19) Mahmoud Kahila, Political Security. sistance will be delivered that formalize re- SEC. 303. ASSISTANCE TO SUPPORT ENTITIES (20) Zuhair Ahmad Hamad, Provincial Se- quirements for the sharing of information TAKING ACTIONS RELATING TO curity. between such entities for the conduct of au- GATHERING EVIDENCE FOR INVES- (21) Wafiq Nasser, Security Branch 245. dits, investigations, and evaluations; and TIGATIONS INTO WAR CRIMES OR (22) Qussay Mayoub, Air Force Intel- (3) the major challenges to monitoring and CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY IN SYRIA SINCE MARCH 2011. ligence. evaluating such programs. (a) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any (23) Muhammad Ammar Sardini, Political SEC. 302. ASSESSMENT OF POTENTIAL METHODS other provision of law, the Secretary of Security. TO ENHANCE THE PROTECTION OF State, acting through the Assistant Sec- CIVILIANS. (24) Fouad Hammouda, Military Security. retary for Democracy, Human Rights and (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 90 days (25) Hasan Daaboul, Branch 261. Labor and the Assistant Secretary for Inter- (26) Yahia Wahbi, Air Force Intelligence. after the date of the enactment of this Act, the President shall submit to the appro- national Narcotics and Law Enforcement Af- (27) Okab Saqer, Security Branch 318. fairs, is authorized to provide assistance to (28) Husam Luqa, Political Security. priate congressional committees a report that— support entities that are conducting crimi- (29) Sami Al-Hasan, Security Branch 219. nal investigations, building Syrian inves- (30) Yassir Deeb, Political Security. (1) assesses the potential effectiveness, risks, and operational requirements of the tigative capacity, supporting prosecutions in (31) Ibrahim Darwish, Security Branch 220. national courts, collecting evidence and pre- (32) Nasser Deeb, Political Security. establishment and maintenance of a no-fly zone over part or all of Syria, including— serving the chain of evidence for eventual (33) Abdullatif Al-Fahed, Security Branch prosecution against those who have com- 290. (A) the operational and legal requirements for United States and coalition air power to mitted war crimes or crimes against human- (34) Adeeb Namer Salamah, Air Force In- ity in Syria, including the aiding and abet- establish a no-fly zone in Syria; telligence. ting of such crimes by foreign governments (B) the impact a no-fly zone in Syria would (35) Akram Muhammed, State Security. and organizations supporting the Govern- have on humanitarian and counterterrorism (36) Reyad Abbas, Political Security. ment of Syria, since March 2011. efforts in Syria and the surrounding region; (37) Ali Abdullah Ayoub, Syrian Armed (b) BRIEFING.—Not later than one year Forces. and after the date of the enactment of this Act, (38) Fahd Jassem Al-Freij, Defense Min- (C) the potential for force contributions the Secretary of State shall brief the Com- istry. from other countries to establish a no-fly mittee on Foreign Affairs of the House of (39) Issam Halaq, Air Force. zone in Syria; Representatives and the Committee on For- (40) Ghassan Al-Abdullah, General Intel- (2) assesses the potential effectiveness, eign Relations of the Senate on assistance ligence Directorate. risks, and operational requirements for the provided under subsection (a). establishment of one or more safe zones in (41) Maher Al-Assad, Republican Guard. TITLE IV—SUSPENSION OF SANCTIONS Syria for internally displaced persons or for (42) Fahad Al-Farouch. WITH RESPECT TO SYRIA the facilitation of humanitarian assistance, (43) Rafiq Shahada, Military Intelligence. SEC. 401. SUSPENSION OF SANCTIONS WITH RE- (44) Loay Al-Ali, Military Intelligence. including— (A) the operational and legal requirements SPECT TO SYRIA. (45) Nawfal Al-Husayn, Military Intel- (a) SUSPENSION OF SANCTIONS.— for United States and coalition forces to es- ligence. (1) NEGOTIATIONS NOT CONCLUDING IN AGREE- tablish one or more safe zones in Syria; (46) Muhammad Zamrini, Military Intel- MENT.—If the President determines that (B) the impact one or more safe zones in ligence. internationally recognized negotiations to Syria would have on humanitarian and (47) Muhammad Mahallah, Military Intel- resolve the violence in Syria have not con- counterterrorism efforts in Syria and the ligence. cluded in an agreement or are likely not to surrounding region; and (d) FORM.—The report required by sub- conclude in an agreement, the President may (C) the potential for contributions from section (a) shall be submitted in unclassified suspend, as appropriate, in whole or in part, other countries and vetted non-state actor form, but may contain a classified annex if the imposition of sanctions otherwise re- partners to establish and maintain one or necessary. quired under this Act or any amendment (e) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term more safe zones in Syria; made by this Act for a period not to exceed ‘‘appropriate congressional committees’’ (3) assesses the potential effectiveness, 120 days, and renewable for additional peri- means— risks, and operational requirements of other ods not to exceed 120 days, if the President (1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the non-military means to enhance the protec- submits to the appropriate congressional Committee on Financial Services, the Com- tion of civilians, especially civilians who are committees in writing a determination and mittee on Ways and Means, and the Com- in besieged areas, trapped at borders, or in- certification that the Government of Syria mittee on the Judiciary of the House of Rep- ternally displaced; and has ended military attacks against and gross resentatives; and (4) describes the Administration’s plan for violations of the human rights of the Syrian (2) the Committee on Foreign Relations, recruitment, training, and retention of part- people, specifically— the Committee on Banking, Housing, and ner forces, including— (A) the air space over Syria is no longer Urban Affairs, the Committee on Finance, (A) identification of the United States being utilized by the Government of Syria and the Committee on the Judiciary of the partner forces operating on the ground; and associated forces to target civilian popu- Senate. (B) the primary source of strength for each lations through the use of incendiary de- armed actor engaged in hostilities; TITLE III—REPORTS AND WAIVER FOR vices, including barrel bombs, chemical (C) the capabilities, requirements, and HUMANITARIAN-RELATED ACTIVITIES weapons, and conventional arms, including vulnerabilities of each armed actor; WITH RESPECT TO SYRIA air-delivered missiles and explosives; (D) the United States role in mitigating SEC. 301. BRIEFING ON MONITORING AND EVALU- (B) areas besieged by the Assad regime and vulnerabilities of partner forces; and ATING OF ONGOING ASSISTANCE associated forces, including Hezbollah and ir- PROGRAMS IN SYRIA AND TO THE (E) the Administration’s measures of suc- regular Iranian forces, are no longer cut off SYRIAN PEOPLE. cess for partner forces, including— from international aid and have regular ac- (a) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days (i) increasing Syrian civilian security; and cess to humanitarian assistance, freedom of after the date of the enactment of this Act, (ii) working toward an end to the conflict travel, and medical care; the Secretary of State and the Adminis- in Syria. trator of the United States Agency for Inter- (b) FORM.—The report required by sub- (C) the Government of Syria is releasing national Development shall brief the Com- section (a) shall be submitted in unclassified all political prisoners forcibly held within mittee on Foreign Affairs of the House of form, but may contain a classified annex if the Assad regime prison system, including Representatives and the Committee on For- necessary. the facilities maintained by various secu- eign Relations of the Senate on the moni- (c) CONSULTATION.—The report required by rity, intelligence, and military elements as- toring and evaluation of ongoing assistance subsection (a) shall be informed by consulta- sociated with the Government of Syria and programs in Syria and for the Syrian people, tions with the Department of State, the allowed full access to the same facilities for including assistance provided through multi- United States Agency for International De- investigations by appropriate international lateral organizations. velopment, the Department of Defense, and human rights organizations; and (b) MATTERS TO BE INCLUDED.—The brief- international and local organizations oper- (D) the forces of the Government of Syria ing required by subsection (a) shall include— ating in Syria or in neighboring countries to and associated forces, including Hezbollah, (1) the specific project monitoring and alleviate the suffering of the Syrian people. irregular Iranian forces, and Russian govern- evaluation efforts, including measurable (d) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term ment air assets, are no longer engaged in de- goals and performance metrics for assistance ‘‘appropriate congressional committees’’ liberate targeting of medical facilities, in Syria; means— schools, residential areas, and community

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gathering places, including markets, in fla- mittee on the Judiciary of the House of Rep- (b) HUMANITARIAN, STABILIZATION, AND DE- grant violation of international norms. resentatives; and MOCRACY ASSISTANCE WAIVER.— (2) NEGOTIATIONS CONCLUDING IN AGREE- (B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, (1) STATEMENT OF POLICY.—It shall be the MENT.— the Committee on Banking, Housing, and policy of the United States to fully utilize (A) INITIAL SUSPENSION OF SANCTIONS.—If Urban Affairs, the Committee on Finance, the waiver authority under this subsection the President determines that internation- and the Committee on the Judiciary of the to ensure that adequate humanitarian relief ally recognized negotiations to resolve the Senate. or support for stabilization and democracy violence in Syria have concluded in an agree- (b) SENSE OF CONGRESS TO BE CONSIDERED promotion is provided to the Syrian people. ment or are likely to conclude in an agree- FOR DETERMINING A TRANSITIONAL GOVERN- (2) WAIVER.—Except as provided in para- ment, the President may suspend, as appro- MENT IN SYRIA.—It is the sense of Congress graph (5) and subsection (d), the President priate, in whole or in part, the imposition of that a transitional government in Syria is a may waive, on a case-by-case basis, for a pe- sanctions otherwise required under this Act government that— riod not to exceed one year, and renewable or any amendment made by this Act for a pe- (1) is taking verifiable steps to release all for additional periods not to exceed one year, riod not to exceed 120 days if the President political prisoners and is providing full ac- the application of sanctions authorized submits to the appropriate congressional cess to Syrian prisons for investigations by under this Act with respect to a person if the committees in writing a determination and appropriate international human rights or- President submits to the appropriate con- certification that— ganizations; gressional committees a written determina- (i) in the case in which the negotiations (2) is taking verifiable steps to remove tion that the waiver is necessary for purposes of providing humanitarian or stabiliza- are likely to conclude in an agreement— former senior Syrian Government officials tion assistance or support for democracy (I) the Government of Syria, the Syrian who are complicit in the conception, imple- promotion to the people of Syria. High Negotiations Committee or its inter- mentation, or cover up of war crimes, crimes (3) CONTENT OF WRITTEN DETERMINATION.—A nationally-recognized successor, and appro- against humanity, or human rights abuses written determination submitted under para- priate international parties are participating and any person subject to sanctions under graph (2) with respect to a waiver shall in- in direct, face-to-face negotiations; and any provision of law from government posi- clude a description of all notification and ac- (II) the suspension of sanctions under this tions; (3) is in the process of organizing free and countability controls that have been em- Act or any amendment made by this Act is ployed in order to ensure that the activities essential to the advancement of such nego- fair elections for a new government— (A) to be held in a timely manner and covered by the waiver are humanitarian or tiations; and stabilization assistance or support for de- (ii) the Government of Syria has dem- scheduled while the suspension of sanctions or the renewal of the suspension of sanctions mocracy promotion and do not entail any ac- onstrated a commitment to a significant and tivities in Syria or dealings with the Govern- substantial reduction in attacks on and vio- under this section is in effect; and (B) to be conducted under the supervision ment of Syria not reasonably related to hu- lence against the Syrian people by the Gov- manitarian or stabilization assistance or ernment of Syria and associated forces. of internationally recognized observers; (4) is making tangible progress toward es- support for democracy promotion. (B) RENEWAL OF SUSPENSION OF SANC- (4) CLARIFICATION OF PERMITTED ACTIVITIES tablishing an independent judiciary; TIONS.—The President may renew a suspen- UNDER WAIVER.—The President may not im- (5) is demonstrating respect for and com- sion of sanctions under subparagraph (A) for pose sanctions authorized under this Act pliance with internationally recognized additional periods not to exceed 120 days if, against a humanitarian organization for— human rights and basic freedoms as specified for each such additional period, the Presi- (A) engaging in a financial transaction re- in the Universal Declaration of Human dent submits to the appropriate congres- lating to humanitarian assistance or for hu- Rights; sional committees in writing a determina- manitarian purposes pursuant to a waiver (6) is taking steps to verifiably fulfill its tion and certification that— issued under paragraph (2); commitments under the Chemical Weapons (i) the conditions described in clauses (i) (B) transporting goods or services that are Convention and the Treaty on the Non-Pro- and (ii) of subparagraph (A) are continuing necessary to carry out operations relating to to be met; liferation of Nuclear Weapons and is making humanitarian assistance or humanitarian (ii) the renewal of the suspension of sanc- tangible progress toward becoming a signa- purposes pursuant to such a waiver; or tions is essential to implementing an agree- tory to Convention on the Prohibition of the (C) having incidental contact, in the course ment described in subparagraph (A) or mak- Development, Production and Stockpiling of of providing humanitarian assistance or aid ing progress toward concluding an agree- Bacteriological (Biological) and Toxin Weap- for humanitarian purposes pursuant to such ment described in subparagraph (A); ons and on their Destruction, entered into a waiver, with individuals who are under the (iii) the Government of Syria and associ- force March 26, 1975, and adhering to the Mis- control of a foreign person subject to sanc- ated forces have ceased attacks against Syr- sile Technology Control Regime and other tions under this Act or any amendment ian civilians; and control lists, as necessary; made by this Act unless the organization or (iv) the Government of Syria has publicly (7) has halted the development and deploy- its officers, members, representatives or em- committed to negotiations for a transitional ment of ballistic and cruise missiles; and ployees have engaged in (or the President government in Syria and continues to dem- (8) is taking verifiable steps to remove knows or has reasonable ground to believe is onstrate that commitment through sus- from positions of authority within the intel- engaged in or is likely to engage in) conduct tained engagement in talks and substantive ligence and security services as well as the described in section 212(a)(3)(B)(iv)(VI) of the and verifiable progress towards the imple- military those who were in a position of au- Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. mentation of such an agreement. thority or responsibility during the conflict 1182(a)(3)(B)(iv)(VI)). (3) BRIEFING AND REIMPOSITION OF SANC- and who under the authority of their posi- (5) EXCEPTION TO WAIVER AUTHORITY.—The TIONS.— tion were implicated in or implicit in the President may not exercise the waiver au- (A) BRIEFING.—Not later than 30 days after torture, extrajudicial killing, or execution of thority under paragraph (2) with respect to a the President submits to the appropriate civilians, to include those who were involved foreign person who has (or whose officers, congressional committees a determination in decisionmaking or execution of plans to members, representatives or employees and certification in the case of a renewal of use chemical weapons. have) engaged in (or the President knows or suspension of sanctions under paragraph SEC. 402. WAIVERS AND EXEMPTIONS. has reasonable ground to believe is engaged (2)(B), and every 30 days thereafter, the (a) EXEMPTIONS.—The following activities in or is likely to engage in) conduct de- President shall provide a briefing to the ap- and transactions shall be exempt from sanc- scribed in section 212(a)(3)(B)(iv)(VI) of the propriate congressional committees on the tions authorized under this Act or any Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. status and frequency of negotiations de- amendment made by this Act: 1182(a)(3)(B)(iv)(VI)). scribed in paragraph (2). (1) Any activity subject to the reporting (c) WAIVER.— (B) RE-IMPOSITION OF SANCTIONS.—If the requirements under title V of the National (1) IN GENERAL.—The President may, for President provides a briefing to the appro- Security Act of 1947 (50 U.S.C. 3091 et seq.), periods not to exceed 120 days, waive the ap- priate congressional committees under sub- or to any authorized intelligence activities plication of sanctions under this Act with re- paragraph (A) with respect to which the of the United States. spect to a foreign person if the President cer- President indicates a lapse in negotiations (2) Any transaction necessary to comply tifies to the appropriate congressional com- described in paragraph (2) for a period that with United States obligations under— mittees that such waiver is vital to the na- equals or exceeds 90 days, the sanctions that (A) the Agreement between the United Na- tional security interests of the United were suspended under paragraph (2)(B) shall tions and the United States of America re- States. be re-imposed and any further suspension of garding the Headquarters of the United Na- (2) CONSULTATION.— such sanctions is prohibited. tions, signed at Lake Success June 26, 1947, (A) BEFORE WAIVER ISSUED.—Not later than (4) DEFINITION.—In this subsection, the and entered into force November 21, 1947; 5 days before the issuance of a waiver under term ‘‘appropriate congressional commit- (B) the Convention on Consular Relations, paragraph (1) is to take effect, the President tees’’ means— done at Vienna April 24, 1963, and entered shall notify and brief the appropriate con- (A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the into force March 19, 1967; or gressional committees on the status of the Committee on Financial Services, the Com- (C) any other international agreement to foreign person’s involvement in activities de- mittee on Ways and Means, and the Com- which the United States is a party. scribed in this Act.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:06 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00059 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.042 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4286 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 (B) AFTER WAIVER ISSUED.—Not later than date of the enactment of this Act, promul- ‘‘Peaceful, peaceful,’’ and then, as we 90 days after the issuance of a waiver under gate regulations as necessary for the imple- saw on CNN, the automatic weapons paragraph (1), and every 120 days thereafter mentation of this Act and the amendments open up and saw the Assad regime mow if the waiver remains in effect, the President made by this Act. those civilians down—he was the first shall brief the appropriate congressional (c) BRIEFING TO CONGRESS.—Not less than committees on the status of the foreign per- 10 days before the promulgation of regula- to begin to ring the alarm. I wish this son’s involvement in activities described in tions under subsection (a), the President body, and previous administrations as this Act. shall brief the appropriate congressional well, had done more to heed his calls. (3) DEFINITION.—In this subsection, the committees on the proposed regulations and For 6 years, we have watched the term ‘‘appropriate congressional commit- the provisions of this Act and the amend- Syrian regime launch wave after wave tees’’ means— ments made by this Act that the regulations of unrelenting destruction on the peo- (A) the Committee on Foreign Affairs, the are implementing. ple of Syria. Airstrikes, chemical Committee on Financial Services, the Com- (d) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term weapons attacks, forced starvation, in- mittee on Ways and Means, and the Com- ‘‘appropriate congressional committees’’ mittee on the Judiciary of the House of Rep- means— dustrial-scale torture, the deliberate resentatives; and (1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs and targeting of hospitals, schools, market- (B) the Committee on Foreign Relations, the Committee on Financial Services of the places, and this done with precision the Committee on Banking, Housing, and House of Representatives; and bombs and with crude barrel bombs, Urban Affairs, the Committee on Finance, (2) the Committee on Foreign Relations and, as a consequence, Syrians suf- and the Committee on the Judiciary of the and the Committee on Banking, Housing, fering every day. Senate. and Urban Affairs of the Senate. Now, just last month, we saw footage (d) CODIFICATION OF CERTAIN SERVICES IN SEC. 502. COST LIMITATION. of entire families killed, suffocated by SUPPORT OF NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZA- No additional funds are authorized to carry sarin gas, a chemical weapon that TIONS’ ACTIVITIES AUTHORIZED.— out the requirements of this Act and the Assad supposedly gave up under a deal (1) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in amendments made by this Act. Such require- paragraph (2), section 542.516 of title 31, Code ments shall be carried out using amounts brokered by Russia and the previous of Federal Regulations (relating to certain otherwise authorized. administration. The number of dead is services in support of nongovernmental orga- SEC. 503. AUTHORITY TO CONSOLIDATE RE- estimated now to be close to 500,000, nizations’ activities authorized), as in effect PORTS. and another 14 million have been driv- on the day before the date of the enactment (a) IN GENERAL.—Any reports required to en from their homes. of this Act, shall— be submitted to the appropriate congres- And while ISIS plays a role in the vi- (A) remain in effect on and after such date sional committees under this Act or any olence in Syria, it is Bashar al-Assad of enactment; and amendment made by this Act that are sub- (B) in the case of a nongovernmental orga- and his backers—among them, Russia, ject to a deadline for submission consisting Iran, and Hezbollah—who are the main nization that is authorized to export or reex- of the same unit of time may be consolidated port services to Syria under such section on into a single report that is submitted to ap- drivers of this death and destruction. the day before such date of enactment, shall propriate congressional committees pursu- ISIS has no airplanes. It is Russian and apply to such organization on and after such ant to such deadline. The consolidated re- Syrian fighter planes and helicopters date of enactment to the same extent and in ports shall contain all information required that drop those bombs on those hos- the same manner as such section applied to under this Act or any amendment made by pitals and schools. such organization on the day before such this Act, in addition to all other elements It is Hezbollah and Iranian Revolu- date of enactment. mandated by previous law. tionary Guard Corps fighters who at- (2) EXCEPTION.—Section 542.516 of title 31, (b) DEFINITION.—In this section, the term tack cities, who burn crops, who pre- Code of Federal Regulations, as codified ‘‘appropriate congressional committees’’ under paragraph (1), shall not apply with re- means— vent food and water and medical sup- spect to a foreign person who has (or whose (1) the Committee on Foreign Affairs and plies from reaching vulnerable civil- officers, members, representatives or em- the Committee on Financial Services of the ians. ployees have) engaged in (or the President House of Representatives; and It is Assad’s secret police and intel- knows or has reasonable ground to believe is (2) the Committee on Foreign Relations ligence groups who kidnap and torture engaged in or is likely to engage in) conduct and the Committee on Banking, Housing, and murder civilians from every ethnic described in section 212(a)(3)(B)(iv)(VI) of the and Urban Affairs of the Senate. group and political party, Sunni, Shia, Immigration and Nationality Act (8 U.S.C. SEC. 504. SUNSET. 1182(a)(3)(B)(iv)(VI)). Christians, Alawite; none are safe. This Act shall cease to be effective begin- One of the worst facilities is just 20 (e) STRATEGY REQUIRED.— ning on December 31, 2021. (1) IN GENERAL.—Not later than 180 days miles from Damascus, Sednaya, a pris- after the date of the enactment of this Act, The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- on, a place so terrible that it is called the President shall submit to the appro- ant to the rule, the gentleman from a human slaughterhouse. Thousands priate congressional committees a report California (Mr. ROYCE) and the gen- and thousands of people have been tor- containing a strategy to ensure that human- tleman from New York (Mr. ENGEL) tured and hung and shot and left to itarian organizations can access financial each will control 20 minutes. starve to death within the prison. And services to ensure the safe and timely deliv- The Chair recognizes the gentleman the numbers are so high that, in 2013, ery of assistance to communities in need in from California. Syria. Assad began constructing a cremato- (2) CONSIDERATION OF DATA FROM OTHER GENERAL LEAVE rium to dispose of the bodies. COUNTRIES AND NONGOVERNMENTAL ORGANIZA- Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, I ask unan- Over the past 4 years, our committee TIONS.—In preparing the strategy required by imous consent that all Members may heard agonizing testimony from Syr- paragraph (1), the President shall consider have 5 legislative days to revise and ex- ians caught up in this horror, including credible data already obtained by other tend their remarks and to include any the brave Syrian defector known to the countries and nongovernmental organiza- extraneous material in the RECORD. world as Caesar and for whom this bill tions, including organizations operating in Syria. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there is named. Caesar testified about the (3) FORM.—The strategy required by para- objection to the request of the gen- shocking scale of torture being carried graph (1) shall be submitted in unclassified tleman from California? out within the prisons of Syria. form but may contain a classified annex. There was no objection. We saw his photographs and the tens TITLE V—REGULATORY AUTHORITY, COST Mr. ROYCE. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- of thousands of photographs he took LIMITATION, AND SUNSET self such time as I may consume. with those bodies numbered numeri- SEC. 501. IMPLEMENTATION AND REGULATORY Mr. Speaker, I would like to start by cally. I don’t know what it is about to- AUTHORITIES. commending the gentleman from New talitarian regimes that leads them to (a) IMPLEMENTATION AUTHORITY.—The York (Mr. ENGEL), the ranking mem- want to number their dead and catalog President may exercise all authorities pro- ber, for his leadership in authoring this it, but, because of his bravery, we have vided to the President under sections 203 and critical legislation. Mr. ENGEL has long those photographs. 205 of the International Emergency Eco- been the voice on Syria, and I must We have also heard from doctors who nomic Powers Act (50 U.S.C. 1702 and 1704) for purposes of carrying out this Act and the mention that the outline that he has treat victims of chemical attacks, vol- amendments made by this Act. given in terms of the initial problems unteers who dig through rubble with (b) REGULATORY AUTHORITY.—The Presi- when we saw those citizens on the their bare hands to rescue those dent shall, not later than 90 days after the streets of Damascus, walking, saying, trapped within, and we have heard

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:19 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00060 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.042 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4287 from the survivors of torture in Assad’s HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, ditiously to the House Floor. The Committee prisons. COMMITTEE ON THE JUDICIARY, on Financial Services takes this action with Washington, DC, April 20, 2017. our mutual understanding that, by foregoing As Syria drags on and on, vital U.S. Hon. EDWARD R. ROYCE, consideration of H.R. 1677 at this time, we do national security interests are at Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, not waive any jurisdiction over the subject stake. Assad’s brutality is both a mag- Washington, DC. matter contained in this or similar legisla- net for terrorist recruitment and a de- DEAR CHAIRMAN ROYCE: I write with re- tion, and that our Committee will be appro- spect to H.R. 1677, the ‘‘Caesar Syria Civilian priately consulted and involved as this or stabilizing force driving tens of mil- Protection Act.’’ As a result of your having similar legislation moves forward so that we lions of refugees out of that country. consulted with us on provisions within H.R. may address any remaining issues that fall We have 14 million Syrians, as I said, 1677 that fall within the Rule X jurisdiction within our Rule X jurisdiction. Our Com- who are displaced right now, many of of the Committee on the Judiciary, I forego mittee also reserves the right to seek ap- them still in the country, and millions any further consideration of this bill so that pointment of an appropriate number of conferees to any House-Senate conference in- outside of the country, yet we have it may proceed expeditiously to the House floor for consideration. volving this or similar legislation, and re- taken no steps to apply the economic The Judiciary Committee takes this action quests your support for any such request. tools that are available to us with re- with our mutual understanding that by fore- Finally, I would appreciate your response spect to Assad and his backers. going consideration of H.R. 1677 at this time, to this letter confirming this understanding with respect to H.R. 1677 and would ask that Mr. Speaker, this legislation is de- we do not waive any jurisdiction over subject matter contained in this or similar legisla- a copy of our exchange of letters on this signed to increase the cost to Assad tion and that our committee will be appro- matter be placed in the Congressional and to those outside backers by tar- priately consulted and involved as this bill Record during floor consideration thereof. geting the sectors of the economy that or similar legislation moves forward so that Sincerely, allow Assad to murder with impunity. we may address any remaining issues in our JEB HENSARLING, Chairman. Under the bill, foreign companies and jurisdiction. Our committee also reserves banks will have to choose between the right to seek appointment of an appropriate number of conferees to any House- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, doing business with the regime or with Senate conference involving this or similar COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, the United States. It would also sanc- legislation and asks that you support any Washington, DC, May 11, 2017. tion anyone who flies weapons or sends such request. Hon. JEB HENSARLING, fighters into Syria to support the I would appreciate a response to this letter Chairman, Committee on Financial Services, Washington, DC. Assad regime. confirming this understanding with respect to H.R. 1677 and would ask that a copy of our DEAR CHAIRMAN HENSARLING: Thank you for consulting with the Foreign Affairs Com- This bill is also about creating eco- exchange of letters on this matter be in- mittee and agreeing to be discharged from nomic leverage to push the parties to cluded in the Congressional Record during further consideration of H.R. 1677, the Caesar floor consideration of H.R. 1677. negotiate, creating the conditions for a Syria Civilian Protection Act, so that the Sincerely, negotiated peace. It is about finding a bill may proceed expeditiously to the House BOB GOODLATTE, way forward to be determined by the floor. Chairman. Syrian people that does not allow I agree that your forgoing further action Assad to exterminate his own commu- on this measure does not in any way dimin- HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- nity; it does not allow him to do it COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- with impunity; does not guarantee Washington, DC, April 24, 2017. atives on this resolution or similar legisla- ISIS a safe space from which to oper- Hon. BOB GOODLATTE, tion in the future. I would support your ef- ate; and does not drive another 10 mil- Chairman, Committee on the Judiciary, fort to seek appointment of an appropriate Washington, DC. lion people from their homes. number of conferees from your committee to DEAR CHAIRMAN GOODLATTE: Thank you for any House-Senate conference on this legisla- For there to be peace in Syria, the consulting with the Foreign Affairs Com- tion. parties must come together, and so mittee on agreeing to be discharged from I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 1677 long as Assad and his backers can further consideration of H.R. 1677, the Caesar into the Congressional Record during floor Syria Civilian Protection Act, so that the consideration of the bill. I appreciate your slaughter the people of Syria with no bill may proceed expeditiously to the House consequences, there is no hope for cooperation regarding this legislation and floor. look forward to continuing to work together peace. I agree that your forgoing further action as this measure moves through the legisla- on this measure does not in any way dimin- As we speak, Russia and Iran have tive process. ish or alter the jurisdiction of your com- Sincerely, proclaimed themselves the guarantors mittee, or prejudice its jurisdictional prerog- of peace and have promised to create EDWARD R. ROYCE, atives on this resolution or similar legisla- Chairman. de-escalation zones where military option in the future. I would support your ef- erations can be curtailed and civilians fort to seek appointment of an appropriate HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, can seek safety. But these zones would number of conferees from your committee to COMMITTEE ON WAYS AND MEANS, be policed by the Syrian Army, sup- any House-Senate conference on this legisla- Washington, DC, May 16, 2017. tion. Hon. EDWARD R. ROYCE, ported by Russian military police, by I will seek to place our letters on H.R. 1677 Hezbollah fighters, and IRGC, Iranian Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, into the Congressional Record during floor Washington, DC. Revolutionary Guard Corps com- consideration of the resolution. I appreciate DEAR CHAIRMAN ROYCE: I am writing with manders, backed by those Shia mili- your cooperation regarding this legislation respect to H.R. 1677, the ‘‘Caesar Syria Civil- tias—the very same people who have and look forward to continuing to work to- ian Protection Act of 2017.’’ As a result of murdered thousands of Syrian civilians gether as this measure moves through the your having consulted with us on provisions legislative process. with impunity throughout this conflict on which the Committee on Ways and Means Sincerely, has a jurisdictional interest, I will not re- and who are actively engaged in fo- EDWARD R. ROYCE, quest a sequential referral on this measure. menting sectarian-based violence Chairman. The Committee on Ways and Means takes throughout the region. With this sce- this action with the mutual understanding nario, peace does not have a chance. HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, that we do not waive any jurisdiction over COMMITTEE ON FINANCIAL SERVICES, the subject matter contained in this or simi- Mr. Speaker, this bill is long overdue. Washington, DC, May 11, 2017. lar legislation, and the Committee will be And last year, ELIOT ENGEL and I Hon. ED ROYCE, appropriately consulted and involved as the brought this up, and we passed it Chairman, Committee on Foreign Affairs, bill or similar legislation moves forward so unanimously, yet the other body did Washington, DC. that we may address any remaining issues not take it up before we adjourned. DEAR CHAIRMAN ROYCE: I am writing con- that fall within our jurisdiction. The Com- cerning H.R. 1677, the Caesar Syria Civilian mittee also reserves the right to seek ap- I urge all Members to support this Protection Act of 2017. pointment of an appropriate number of con- legislation as we seek to ease the suf- As a result of your having consulted with ferees to any House-Senate conference in- fering of the Syrian people. the Committee on Financial Services con- volving this or similar legislation, and re- cerning provisions in the bill that fall within quests your support for such request. Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of our Rule X jurisdiction, I agree to forgo ac- Finally, I would appreciate your response my time. tion on the bill so that it may proceed expe- to this letter confirming this understanding,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:19 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00061 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.092 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4288 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 and would ask that a copy of our exchange of the horrors of war and the horrors of still seared in my brain and I will never letters on this matter be included in the civilians. So my heart really bleeds for forget them; the depth of brutality and Congressional Record during floor consider- the Syrian people. indifference to human life. ation of H.R. 1677. This week, it was the revelation of a We have named this bill after him be- Sincerely, crematorium, a furnace where the cause we want to send a message. If KEVIN BRADY, Chairman. criminals who do Assad’s bidding can you are supporting this murder, if you pile the bodies and try to burn away are enabling the butcher in Damascus HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES, the evidence of their atrocities. to continue waging that sort of vio- COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN AFFAIRS, Also this week, Russia announced lence against his own people, you are Washington, DC, May 16, 2017. that they will work with Iran, Iraq, going to face consequences. Hon. KEVIN BRADY, and Assad to open a secure road from This bill would sanction anyone who Chairman, Committee on Ways and Means, Baghdad to Damascus. What that real- provides material support for the Assad Washington, DC. ly means, Mr. Speaker, is a road from regime. We want to go after the actual DEAR CHAIRMAN BRADY: Thank you for con- hardware that keeps his war machine sulting with the Foreign Affairs Committee Beirut to Tehran in Iran, a permanent Iranian foothold right in the Middle running, the planes and bombs that on H.R. 1677, the Caesar Syria Civilian Pro- terrorize the Syrian people, and the tection Act of 2017, and for agreeing to forgo East, a permanent Iranian foothold spare parts and oil that keep every- a sequential referral request so that the bill right on Israel’s border, a permanent thing running. If you do business with may proceed expeditiously to the House Iranian foothold to do mischief and the Assad, the blood of the Syrian people is floor. usual nefarious things that the Iranian on your hands and you are going to get I agree that your declining to pursue a se- Government does. quential referral in this case does not dimin- caught up in these sanction. Yes, that This crisis has been burning out of ish or alter the jurisdiction of the Com- means Iran and Russia. mittee on Ways and Means, or prejudice its control for six long years. I was an If conditions on the ground change jurisdictional prerogatives on this bill or early vocal supporter, as I mentioned and negotiations were in sight, it similar legislation in the future. I would sup- before, of arming the moderate Syrian might be useful to dial back these port your effort to seek appointment of an opposition. I thought we should have sanctions in order to help end the vio- appropriate number of conferees from your done much more to help push Assad lence. So we have built in some degree committee to any House-Senate conference out of power and help the Syrian peo- of flexibility. The measures are tough, on this legislation. ple chart the course for their country’s I will seek to place our letters on this bill but we all want them to be a roadblock into the Congressional Record during floor future. When we didn’t, I spoke out. to peace. consideration of the bill. I appreciate your Since then, Assad has plowed ahead This bill also seeks to provide some cooperation regarding this legislation and with his campaign of carnage. The few relief to the Syrian people who are now look forward to continuing to work with the times he appeared to be taking on suffering terribly. It would improve Committee on Ways and Means as this meas- water, he was given a lifeline by his de- oversight of assistance flowing into ure moves through the legislative process. voted enablers, Russia and Iran, Syria and evaluate the feasibility of a Sincerely, through its terrorist proxy, Hezbollah. no-fly zone. EDWARD R. ROYCE, Every time Assad seemed to be losing, We also need to think about what Chairman. he was given a lifeline and, as I just must happen after the violence has Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise in mentioned, by Hezbollah, also given a ended, about who must be held ac- strong support of this legislation, and I lifeline by the Russians who came in. countable. So this bill requires report- yield myself as much time as I may So while it was suspected in the high- ing on human rights violators, and consume. est annals of Washington that Assad would support efforts to gather evi- Mr. Speaker, I am very grateful that wouldn’t last more than a few months, dence of crimes against humanity. This the House is considering my bill today, no one would have imagined that 4 and bill isn’t a silver bullet. It isn’t a strat- the Caesar Syria Civilian Protection 5 years later there would be Assad win- egy for resolving the crisis in Syria. Act. ning the war, again, with the help of Congress can do a lot, though, when I want to thank my friend, the chair- Russia, Iran, and their terrorist proxy. it comes to foreign policy. We can give man of the Foreign Affairs Committee, It is a disgrace, Mr. Speaker, and we an administration tools and resources, ED ROYCE, for joining as the lead Re- need to act out. We need to help. but it is up to the White House to lead publican cosponsor of this measure. I Today, we find ourselves no closer to on this issue. If the first step in a seri- am proud that we are bringing it up to a solution, and 4 months into the new ous strategy is stopping the violence— the floor with 108 cosponsors, Members administration, we have yet to hear a and I think it is—this legislation can from both sides of the aisle. strategy for dealing with Syria. The help dial up pressure on those driving the war. Mr. Speaker, every week, more and Tomahawk missile strike last month So I continue to push ahead; Mr. more bad news pours in about the civil was an appropriate response to the war in Syria. I am grateful to Chair- ROYCE at my side, and I am grateful to chemical weapons attack, although I my colleagues for their support. I am man ROYCE for making the comments believe the administration’s policy he just made because my heart has grateful to the Foreign Affairs Com- shift, with respect to Assad, mittee for moving this swiftly. been bleeding for Syria, or crying out emboldened Assad to launch that at- for Syria, for 4 or 5 years now, ever Mr. Speaker, I reserve the balance of tack, and a single missile strike is not my time. since, as Mr. ROYCE said, there were a strategy. Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- peaceful demonstrations and they were We need a plan to stop the violence, er, I yield 4 minutes to the gentleman mowed down by the Assad regime. push a political transition that sees from Illinois (Mr. KINZINGER), a mem- The United States didn’t do much. the end of Assad’s rule and helps the ber of the Committee on Foreign Af- We sort of watched and retreated and Syrian people recover and move for- fairs and an Air Force pilot. perhaps were afraid that we would be ward. My bill, this bill, would be part Mr. KINZINGER. Mr. Speaker, I bogged down in another war. But we of that strategy. thank you and the chairman. I want to should have, at that point, in my esti- b 1715 commend the chairman. I want to com- mation, helped the free Syria Army, mend Mr. ENGEL for his foresight in which begged us for help, not people, It is named, as Mr. ROYCE pointed this bill and for bringing it to the floor. not troops, but help, and we didn’t do out, for Caesar, a former Syrian Gov- Mr. Speaker, I was just recently in it. We didn’t give it to them. ernment photographer. Fed up with Auschwitz. It was my first visit to We thought that Assad would fall on documenting the brutality of the Assad Auschwitz and, obviously, seeing some- his own, ultimately, but he didn’t, and regime, he defected and escaped so he thing like that is not something you we are bearing the price today. We are could show the world exactly what was are going to forget very quickly. See- paying the price today. The people of happening to the regime’s victims. ing something like that and an indus- Syria, unfortunately, are the ones pay- I will never forget the images he trial machine put together to elimi- ing the price. Millions of people have showed us when he came to the Foreign nate people is not something that peo- died and have been misplaced and just Affairs Committee. Those images are ple thought humanity was capable of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:19 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00062 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.045 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4289 until they found out that it actually a population center intended to com- The continuation of the war that the was possible. mit the largest amounts of casualties Assad government is waging against its So in preserving Auschwitz, the pur- possible; a GPS-guided bomb, or a own people only makes it harder to de- pose was to say: Hey, this is possible. laser-guided bomb intentionally feat the terrorists who threaten Amer- Never forget that this can happen dropped into a hospital, and then a ica, the region, and the world. Today’s again. delay of 20 minutes so they can hit it legislation will help address this prob- Mr. Speaker, it was just recently again, or hit areas where first respond- lem. that we learned about the crematorium ers have responded to. I see on the floor, my friend, Chair- that was built in the Syrian prison. Mr. Speaker, this isn’t a legitimate man ROYCE, who is a great leader on Now, why was this built? way of fighting war, if there is a legiti- issues relating to our foreign policy It was built to hide the massive mate way of fighting war. This is bru- and to human rights. I congratulate amounts of bodies coming out, tortured tality to the top level, and this is a him for his leadership. Working with to death; destroyed the lives cut short great step for this Congress to take. We his partner, Mr. ENGEL, we have taken in this Syrian prison. It was used to unanimously passed this the last time. significant steps to raise both the disguise that. It was used to prevent I sure hope we can do that again. moral and the foreign policy issues mass graves from being dug. Again, I thank the leadership for that need to be raised. The efforts are I think that proves that Bashar al- leading on this. I thank Mr. ENGEL and bipartisan and reflect hard work on the Assad is actually a modern-day Hitler. Chairman ROYCE for their leadership. part of the ranking member, the chair- In fact, if you look at when, as was I ask my colleagues to join me and man, as well as members of the Foreign mentioned prior, Caesar came to our join us in supporting this very impor- committee and showed us the images of Affairs Committee. tant bill. I thank them for their efforts, and I brutality—the government cataloging Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, it is now urge my colleagues to join in strong the victims of the Syrian regime with my pleasure to yield 4 minutes to the and, hopefully, unanimous support of markers written on the body, a num- gentleman from Maryland (Mr. HOYER), this important resolution. bering system, and a catalog to say, in the distinguished Democratic whip, Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- essence, document these massive someone who I know, through our er, I yield 4 minutes to the gentle- amounts of death—it became very clear meetings, feels so strongly about this woman from Florida (Ms. ROS- to us in a very visual sense what was and feels as we do. LEHTINEN), who chairs the Foreign Af- going on in Syria. Mr. Speaker, oftentimes it is easy in Mr. HOYER. Mr. Speaker, I thank fairs Subcommittee on the Middle East the United States of America, where my friend, the gentleman from New and North Africa. we have a lot of comforts and we have York, the ranking member on the For- Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN. Mr. Speaker, I a lot of things granted to us that we eign Affairs Committee for yielding. I thank Chairman ROYCE again for yield- take for granted, to look at a situation thank Mr. KINZINGER for his leadership ing the time. happening overseas and think it as well as his statement. Mr. Speaker, I stand in strong sup- doesn’t apply to us or doesn’t affect us; Mr. Speaker, I rise in support of this port of Ranking Member ELIOT ENGEL’s and it is really tempting sometimes to bipartisan legislation, which will im- Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act, get into that because it is easy some- pose tough sanctions on entities aiding H.R. 1677, of which I am proud to be an times to pretend something doesn’t af- the Assad regime in Syria. original cosponsor, and I commend him fect us. But it does. Bashar al-Assad is brutal murderer. and the chairman for all of their hard We see the massive amounts of mi- Very frankly, there are too many coun- work in authoring the bill and bringing gration from Syria, the young 7-, 8-, tries facilitating and complicit in the it before us today. and 9-year-olds who are not going to murders that he perpetrates. He has During our committee’s hearing on school now because they have been dis- gassed his own people and waged a civil Syria in April—and we have had so rupted and their lives have been dis- war that has displaced millions from many hearings—one of our witnesses rupted, and in 5 or 6 years, if they don’t their homes and their country. made a point that I think bears repeat- get an education and don’t get hope Recently, Mr. Speaker, I had the ing, a point that highlights the impor- and opportunity, they will provide now honor of meeting some of the White tance of the ranking member’s bill be- the next recruiting ground for ISIS, or Helmet civil defense workers who are fore us today. As long as Assad remains ISIS two, or al-Qaida three, because risking their lives daily to rescue civil- in power, there is very little chance people without hope and without op- ians caught in the crossfire and tar- that we will be able to defeat ISIS or portunity are easy to bring into a ter- geted by government forces; facili- its offshoots because Assad, in many rorist ideology like those. tated, I might say, by Mr. Putin’s ways, has facilitated the growth of the Mr. Speaker, the President rightly troops in Syria. very jihadist groups for which he decided to enforce the red line in Syria The Assad regime is being propped up claims are protecting Syria. Hogwash. when it came to the use of chemical by Iran and Russia in a dangerous and As we talk about how to stop the weapons—something that the Western destabilizing geopolitical game. There slaughter in Syria, we must remember world has held very dear, that chemical are reports that the Assad government that no one bears more responsibility weapons on the battlefield have no is now cremating victims of mass mur- for that slaughter than Assad. He and place—and he destroyed a Syrian air- der in an attempt to hide the evidence his regime are the ones dropping barrel field. It was the right move. It began to of its numerous crimes. While this is bombs. They are the ones unleashing shift the balance of power in Syria, but taking place, Americans watched in chemical weapons on their own people. way more needs to be done. disbelief; frankly, as President Trump And if we want to have any chance of I have called for action in Syria, as met in the Oval Office with those who stopping the bloodbath, of defeating many on this committee have for a are protecting, aiding and abetting ISIS, or of putting an end to the im- very long time, and this, the Caesar Bashar al-Assad and those committing mense humanitarian challenges spread- bill, is a fantastic first step to doing it. atrocities by his command and in his ing throughout the region and beyond, It would increase sanctions on the name. we must put a stop to Assad. Assad regime and its supporters for Not only does that show how little This bill ratchets up the pressure on continued atrocities committed this President understands about the Assad and his collaborators, especially against the Syrian people. It requires conflict in Syria and its broader com- his main allies—Russia and Iran—while this administration and any future ad- plexities, it also reminds us that he has expanding on the Iran Threat Reduc- ministration to stand up and impose articulated no clear strategy on how to tion and Syria Human Rights Act, a costs on the Russians, on the Iranians, end that conflict and to defeat ISIS. bill which I authored and which be- and on the Syrian backers for the bar- Having said that, let me congratulate came law in 2012. It gives the adminis- rel bombing and gassing of innocent ci- the President for taking the actions tration new tools to go after individ- vilians. against the airfield after the chemical uals and entities working with Assad Think about that, a barrel filled with attack. But, frankly, that was a sig- in the finance, aircraft, transportation, explosives dropped indiscriminately on nificant, but small, step. telecom, and energy sectors, as well as

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:19 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00063 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.094 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4290 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 it gives them the tools to target indi- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Six years into the Syrian civil war, viduals complicit in human rights objection, the gentleman from New with hundreds of thousands dead and abuses. York (Mr. ENGEL) has reclaimed the millions more driven from their homes, I am glad to have worked with the time from the gentleman from Virginia we cannot waste time looking back- ranking member and our esteemed (Mr. CONNOLLY). ward or just simply placing blame. We chairman to include my amendments There was no objection. need to face the reality of this crisis in this bill, amendments that would de- Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield 3 today and do all we can to forge a new termine that denying or hindering ac- minutes to the gentlewoman from strategy to deal with it. cess to humanitarian aid is a serious Florida (Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ). Three, four, five years ago, no one human rights violation, and, as such, it Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ. Mr. would have imagined that Assad would would allow the administration to Speaker, I thank the gentleman for still be clinging to power over more sanction any individual responsible for yielding. and more deaths of his own people. We doing so. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in strong need to find a way to push for an end to All of these tools, Mr. Speaker, are support of the Caesar Syria Civilian the violence and bring about a political vital components of doing something Protection Act of 2017. resolution that gets Assad out of that we still desperately need in Syria: Since 2011, the Assad regime’s forces power. By the way, that is going to be a comprehensive, holistic strategy that have killed an estimated 500,000 people, harder to do because the Russians and looks beyond short-term tactical suc- mostly civilians, by unconscionably Ukrainians are really backing him. cesses and, instead, targets the founda- targeting and attacking major popu- Let’s allow the Syrian people to start tion of so many of the problems rip- lation centers. According to Human their long journey forward. This legis- pling through the region. Rights Watch, last month, the Syrian lation will help us meet that challenge. If we continue to narrowly focus on regime used a nerve agent in northwest ISIS without getting at the root of the It will impose a new cost on those who Syria that killed at least 92 people, in- Syrian conflict—Assad, Russia, and so far have aided the Assad regime cluding 30 children. Iran—then we will only be treating the with impunity. It will apply new pres- Even more heartbreaking is the fact symptoms instead of the disease. sure to the regime, which relies on the that this was not the first chemical patronage of its enablers in Moscow. It b 1730 weapons attack by the Syrian Govern- will signal to the Syrian people that we If we are to have any hope of finding ment against its own people. To the share a vision of a future in which they a solution in Syria, the kind of pres- contrary, reports suggest that the make the decisions and Assad has no sure that this bill would achieve is an Assad regime’s use of chemical weap- role. essential piece of that puzzle. ons has become ‘‘widespread and sys- The bill passed the House unani- I offer my full support for this bill, tematic,’’ and it has dropped bombs mously a year ago. I am hopeful we and I urge my colleagues to do the with nerve agents on at least four will soon pass it in a little while again same. other occasions since December 12. overwhelmingly. I urge the other body The SPEAKER pro tempore. Without Just yesterday, our own State De- to act on it without delay so we can objection, the gentleman from Virginia partment revealed that the Syrian re- get it to the President’s desk. (Mr. CONNOLLY) will control the time. gime is actively using a large cremato- Mr. Speaker, I yield back the balance There was no objection. rium to dispose of the remains of thou- of my time. Mr. CONNOLLY. Mr. Speaker, I cer- sands of Syrian men, women, and chil- Mr. ROYCE of California. Mr. Speak- tainly add my voice to that of my col- dren, whom they continue to slaughter. er, I yield myself such time as I may leagues in support of this important Not only has the Syrian Government consume. legislation. Syria is a mess. It does af- become a source of such crimes against Mr. Speaker, in closing, I would like fect all of us, as Mr. KINZINGER said, humanity, but Syria has also indis- to once again recognize the work of whether we like it or not. It is desta- putably become a hotbed for terrorist Ranking Member ENGEL and the other bilizing the entire region. I believe this activity, propped up by Iran, Russia, committee members who have contrib- bill can be a useful tool in our diplo- and Hezbollah. Both ISIS and al-Qaida uted to this bill. matic efforts. are operating near the Syria-Israel bor- Our committee has heard the first- Mr. Speaker, I yield 2 minutes to the der, putting the Jewish State of Israel hand accounts of the suffering. We gentlewoman from Florida (Ms. and our regional security in grave dan- heard the testimony from Raed Saleh FRANKEL), my friend and colleague. ger. of the Syrian White Helmets as he Ms. FRANKEL of Florida. Mr. Speak- As a mother and a Jew, I cannot turn spoke of their efforts to rescue and er, I thank the chair and ranking mem- my cheek to this unadulterated evil. treat those who were killed and injured ber for their great leadership. Mr. Speaker, imagine a mother cry- As a Member of the United States Con- in Assad’s brutal air assaults. When the ing in despair while holding her child gress, I have a duty to keep the Amer- bombs come in, as they often do, his in her arms, a child who is gasping for ican people safe and hold the Assad reorganization, which was nominated for his last breath, an innocent victim of a gime accountable for its war crimes the Nobel Peace Prize, runs toward barrel bomb filled with sarin gas and brutality. That is why I strongly those shelters being destroyed to pro- dropped on his school. support this critical legislation, and I vide relief for the victims and to pull The situation in Syria is the worst thank Ranking Member ENGEL for all them out. humanitarian crisis since World War II. of his hard work in sponsoring it. We have heard of the terror. More President Assad’s brutal regime has This bipartisan legislation would ex- than a year ago, Dr. Mohamed Tennari killed half a million innocent victims pand sanctions on those individuals of the Syrian American Medical Soci- and displaced 14 million more, with who commit such monstrous acts of vi- ety described for the committee the millions fleeing into Jordan, Lebanon, olence and inflict such extreme suf- sound of helicopters overhead, the Turkey, and over Europe, straining fering upon innocent Syrians. It would thump of exploding bombs, and the their resources, threatening regional ensure that the United States has the overpowering smell of bleach in the stability, weakening European institu- tools it needs to reach its ultimate air. This brave doctor described the tions, and undermining United States goal of ending the Assad regime’s cam- horrendous effects this toxic gas has on economic and security interests. paign of carnage once and for all. the human body and the slow, agoniz- We must hold Assad and his sup- Mr. Speaker, I urge my colleagues to ing deaths as the chlorine gas turned porters responsible for their atrocities. vote ‘‘yes’’ on this important legisla- to hydrochloric acid in the lungs of vic- American leadership is needed more tion. tims. now than ever. I urge my colleagues to Mr. ENGEL. Mr. Speaker, I yield my- Many of those victims he spoke of support the Caesar Syria Civilian Pro- self the balance of my time. were children. They were targeted by tection Act. Mr. Speaker, we have heard both the regime. People were targeted as Mr. Speaker, I fear that one day we sides simply agree. This is as bipar- they slept in their beds in their neigh- will look back and we will ask: Why did tisan as you can get. It is as unani- borhoods. Just a few weeks ago, one we not do more? mous, hopefully, as you can get. family lost 20 relatives in a single sarin

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:19 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00064 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.095 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4291 gas attack. Of the 92 victims of that at- The photographs and testimony show a glected to mention his contacts with the tack on that day, 23 were children. clear connection between the reported human Russian ambassador and recused himself Mr. Speaker, in 2016, efforts to estab- rights violations and the Assad government, from anything involving the Russian investigation; lish a lasting cease-fire failed, result- legitimizing the bill and giving clear evidence Whereas, Senate Russia investigators have ing in an aggressive campaign by Syr- to the international courts if President Assad requested information from the Treasury De- ian and Russian air assets against east- stands trial for international war crimes. partment’s criminal investigation division, ern Aleppo. U.N. officials described H.R. 1677 is intended to sanction both the the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network, that assault as ‘‘crimes of historic pro- Syrian regime and any actors, what the bill re- or FinCEN, which handles cases of money portions.’’ fers to as a ‘‘foreign person,’’ who support its laundering, for information related to Presi- Mr. Speaker, I urge all Members to dent Trump, his top officials and campaign human rights violations by imposing sanctions aides. FinCEN has been investigating allega- support this legislation, and I yield on them. tions of foreign money-laundering through back the balance of my time. This support can be in any capacity, such purchases of U.S. real estate; Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise in as economic or military support. Whereas, the President’s tax returns would support of H.R. 1677 ‘‘Caesar Syria Civilian H.R. 1677 is important and necessary as show us whether he has foreign bank ac- Protection Act of 2017.’’ the United States cannot sit in silence while counts and how much profit he receives from his ownership in myriad partnerships; This bill, introduced by my colleague, For- tens of thousands innocent civilians are Whereas, the President hired a law firm to eign Affairs Committee Ranking Member ELIOT slaughtered by Assad’s authoritative regime. send a letter to Senator Lindsey Graham to ENGEL, uses sanctions to put pressure on the Assad’s crimes are not only against human- fight suggestions he has Russian business Syrian government and anyone supporting it ity but also against democracy, and I fully sup- ties; this letter left open the question wheth- to stop committing war crimes against human- port legislation aiming to stop these atrocities. er Mr. Trump or his firms received Russian ity. The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. income or loans or derived income from Rus- I support this legislation for its important and sian-linked partnerships. HULTGREN). The question is on the mo- Whereas, Donald Trump Jr. said the Trump necessary purpose to halt the wholesale tion offered by the gentleman from Organization saw money ‘‘pouring in from slaughter of the Syrian people, encourage a California (Mr. ROYCE) that the House Russia’’ and that ‘‘Russians make up a pret- negotiated political settlement, and hold Syrian suspend the rules and pass the bill, ty disproportionate cross-section of a lot of human rights abusers accountable for their H.R. 1677, as amended. our assets.’’ crimes. The question was taken; and (two- Whereas, the White House will not confirm The Syrian government, empowered with whether the President has filed a 2016 tax re- thirds being in the affirmative) the turn; support from Iran and Russia, has pursued a rules were suspended and the bill, as Whereas, Congress gave itself the author- strategy of targeting civilians to eliminate any amended, was passed. ity to review an individual’s tax returns to opposition to its rule, including arresting any- A motion to reconsider was laid on investigate and reveal possible conflicts of one who opposes it. the table. interest of executive branch officials involved in the Teapot Dome scandal. The Syrian Observatory for Human Rights f has reported the deaths of 60,000 people in Whereas, President Donald Trump’s executive order on the Review of designations prisons since the start of the conflict. RAISING A QUESTION OF THE PRIVILEGES OF THE HOUSE under the Antiquities Act has directed the The Syrian government is the main aggres- U.S. Secretary of the Interior Ryan Zinke to sor in a conflict that has resulted in at least Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I rise review national monuments that presidents 400,000 dead and 14 million Syrians dis- to a question of the privileges of the have designated or expanded since 1996. placed; between 2011 and 2015, the Syrian House and offer the resolution pre- Whereas, this review was praised by indus- Network for Human Rights attributed 96 per- viously noticed. try groups who could benefit financially cent of civilian deaths to the Syrian regime. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The from oil, gas and mining and condemned by environmental organizations concerned this Additionally, President Bashar al-Assad has Clerk will report the resolution. review will scrap or scale back critical fed- blocked United Nations humanitarian aid from The Clerk read as follows: eral designation to protect tribal and his- reaching the intended recipients. Expressing the sense of the House of Rep- toric lands. Who is Caesar? Caesar, who uses the resentatives that the President shall imme- Whereas, the American people are in the pseudonym to remain anonymous as a way to diately disclose his tax return information dark to knowing if this review was started to protect his family, defected from the Syrian to Congress and the American people. justify selling or leasing public lands to pri- military in 2013. Whereas, in the United States’ system of vate corporations that could enrich the President or his business partners without He worked as a crime scene photographer checks and balances, Congress has a responsibility to hold the Executive Branch of gov- reviewing the President’s tax returns. for the Assad government after joining the ernment to the highest standard of trans- Whereas, it has been reported that federal military, years before the current conflict parency to ensure the public interest is prosecutors have issued grand jury sub- began. placed first; poenas to associates of former National Se- As the conflict escalated, so did the number Whereas, according to the Tax History curity Advisor Michael Flynn seeking busi- of bodies he would photograph each day. Project, every President since Gerald Ford ness records as part of the ongoing probe Photographing the torture and rising death has disclosed their tax return information to into Russian involvement in the 2016 elec- the public; tion; began to change his attitude towards the re- Whereas, according to his 2016 candidate gime and in 2013, with help from the opposi- Whereas, tax returns provide an important baseline disclosure because they contain filing with the Federal Election Commission, tion, he faked his own death and defected highly instructive information including the President has 564 financial positions in from the Syrian military. whether the candidate paid taxes, what they companies located in the United States and When he fled in August 2013, Caesar had own, what they have borrowed and from around the world; Whereas, against the advice of ethics at- collected over 53,000 photographs of detain- whom, whether they have made any chari- torneys and the Office of Government Ethics, table donations, and whether they have ees who had been tortured and killed. the President has refused to divest his own- taken advantage of tax loopholes; He handed these photographs over to an ership stake in his businesses; and can still Whereas, disclosure of the President’s tax anti-government political group, the Syrian Na- withdraw funds at any time from the trust of tional Movement, who then distributed the returns could help those investigating Rus- which he is the sole beneficiary; sian influence in the 2016 election understand photographs to other groups, including Human Whereas, the Emoluments Clause was in- the President’s financial ties to the Russian cluded in the U.S. Constitution for the ex- Rights Watch (HRW). Federation and Russian citizens, including With these photographs, HRW ‘‘found evi- press purpose of preventing federal officials debts owed and whether he shares any part- from accepting any ‘‘present, Emolument, dence of widespread torture, starvation, beat- nership interests, equity interests, joint ven- Office, or Title . . . from any King, Prince, ings, and disease in Syrian government deten- tures or licensing agreements with Russia or or foreign state’’; tion facilities.’’ Russians; Whereas, the most signed petition on the With the conflict in Syria in its fifth year, the Whereas, the President fired FBI Director White House website calls for the release of U.S. House of Representatives introduced a James Comey last week, whose FBI was in- the President’s tax return information to bill intended to punish the Assad regime and vestigating whether the Trump campaign verify compliance with the Emoluments colluded with Russia to influence the 2016 Clause, with 1 million, 94 thousand signa- its supporters and based it on both Caesar’s election; tures as of date of this resolution; photographs and his testimony in front of the Whereas, Attorney General Jeff Sessions, Whereas, the Chairmen of the Ways and House Committee on Foreign Affairs this past who made the recommendation to fire Direc- Means Committee, Joint Committee on Tax- July. tor Comey, during sworn testimony ne- ation, and Senate Finance Committee have

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:19 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00065 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.097 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4292 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 the authority to request the President’s tax There is nothing about the Russian privileged resolution because we have a returns under Section 6103 of the tax code; state-run bank financing a deal involv- right to know, we have a right to up- Whereas, the Joint Committee on Taxation ing Mr. Trump’s hotel partner in To- hold the integrity of this institution— reviewed the tax returns of President Rich- ronto. everybody—not just some. ard Nixon in 1974 and made the information Mr. Trump has not divested himself public; Number three, the Financial Crimes Whereas, the Ways and Means Committee Enforcement Network, FinCEN as it is from his businesses as was recused IRC 6103 authority in 2014 to make pub- called, which is part of the Treasury ommended by the Office of Government lic the confidential tax information of 51 Department but independent—inde- Ethics. We need to see how our Presi- taxpayers; pendent—has independent investigative dent—our President—would personally Whereas, the American people have the powers. They are looking into the benefit from changes to our Tax Code. right to know whether or not their President money laundering in that situation. Tax Code changes proposed by his ad- is operating under conflicts of interest re- They are already investigating that ministration could lower his own per- lated to international affairs, tax reform, with these Russian oligarchs—very in- sonal tax bill by tens of millions of dol- government contracts, or otherwise: Now, lars. The American people have a right therefore, be it: teresting. Also we know of what happened—— to know that. Resolved, That the House of Representa- We have learned that earlier this tives shall— The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- 1. Immediately request the tax return in- tleman’s remarks must be confined to year the President apparently asked formation of Donald J. Trump for tax years the question of order. The gentleman Mr. Comey to cease his investigation of 2006 through 2015 for review in closed execu- may proceed. Trump National Security Advisor tive session by the Committee on Ways and Mr. PASCRELL. Well, I would like to Flynn. In a surprise move last week, Means, as provided under Section 6103 of the know, Mr. Speaker—I am sure you Mr. Trump fired the Director of the Internal Revenue Code, and vote to report FBI. would, Mr. Speaker—how foreign in- the information therein to the full House of The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- Representatives. vestments have enriched the President tleman is reminded that remarks must 2. Support transparency in government and of the United States. That is the only be confined to the question of order. the longstanding tradition of Presidents and way we are going to find out the con- Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I am Presidential candidates disclosing their tax flicts of interest—the only way. saying here and very specifically, we returns. So I have heard some House leaders have no way of knowing whether Mr. b 1745 argue that the House should not con- Trump or his firms have received Rus- cern itself with things outside of its sian income. It is an insult to the in- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Does the control. But section 6103 of the IRS tegrity of this House—Republicans and gentleman from New Jersey wish to Code is very much within the control Democrats alike. We need to know present argument on the parliamen- of the House, if you have read it, giving this. We need to know that the Presi- tary question whether the resolution specific responsibility to the chairman dent of the United States is beyond presents a question of the privileges of of the Ways and Means Committee, and question in his objectivity with any na- the House? the American people are demanding tion, and particularly those who are Mr. PASCRELL. Yes, Mr. Speaker. the Congress request the President’s pretty shaky in relationship with, like The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- tax returns be exercised for several rea- Russia. tleman from New Jersey is recognized. sons. A certified letter from paid attorneys Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, the Mr. Trump has not divested himself that actually confirms the President, stunning conflicts of interest are piling from his businesses as was rec- in fact, does have financial ties to Rus- up as the President, his family, and his ommended by the Office of Government sia does nothing to assuage these con- friends profit in their personal business Ethics. cerns. endeavors while serving in public of- Mr. Speaker, I think it is relevant if The legislative branch has the re- fice. we look at what was produced—remem- sponsibility—it has the authority—to Under rule IX, clause 1, questions of ber, it is evidence time—what was pro- check the executive branch, and sec- the privileges of the House are ‘‘those duced on January 21, 2009, the ethics tion 6103(f)(1) is very clear, very dis- affecting the rights of the House col- commitments by executive branch per- tinct, the privilege of the House—the lectively, its safety, dignity, and the sonnel and what has been committed privilege of the Tax Code—which al- integrity of its proceedings.’’ There is and produced under this administra- lows for an examination of the tax re- nothing more of a threat to the integ- tion. They have laughed at Mr. Shaub, turns, the authority put in place spe- rity of this House than ignoring our who is the ethics commission chair- cifically so Congress could examine duty to provide a check and balance to man. They have laughed at him be- conflicts of interest in the executive the executive branch. To restore the cause it is almost like Cornelius Van- following the Teapot Dome scandal. As dignity of the House, we must use our derbilt: You have the law; I have the I mentioned before, the possible sale of authority to request President Trump’s power. public lands under this administration tax returns and begin to give the The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gen- is not very different than the biggest American people the transparency they tleman will suspend. scandal of the 20th century at Teapot deserve. That is what we should be giv- The Chair will hear argument only Rock, Wyoming. ing them. on whether this resolution qualifies Mr. Speaker, nothing could be more of a threat to the integrity of this dis- Now, Mr. Speaker, it is evidence under the rule—— time. Today there is in The Wall Street Mr. PASCRELL. On a question of tinguished—— The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Journal an article entitled, ‘‘Russian privilege, Mr. Speaker—— Chair has heard the gentleman’s argu- State-Run Bank Financed Deal Involv- The SPEAKER pro tempore. On the ment and is prepared to rule. ing Trump Hotel Partner.’’ It is a very question of order. Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I have interesting article, I advise, and I want Mr. PASCRELL. I’m sorry to inter- only 2 more minutes. May I finish? to put it into the RECORD with your rupt. The SPEAKER pro tempore. If the permission. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The gentleman confines his remarks to the Mr. Speaker, a letter was sent just Chair will only hear—— question of order, the gentleman may recently from Mr. Trump’s lawyers to Mr. PASCRELL. On a question of conclude his argument. Mr. Trump and then on to Senator privilege—I am talking about the privi- Mr. PASCRELL. I am confining my LINDSEY GRAHAM. That letter was sup- lege of this House. I am talking about remarks to the question of privileges posed to be an explanation of the Presi- the privilege of Republicans and Demo- which I said last night. Mr. Speaker, I dent of the United States’ involvement crats. We are all alike. We are all will not yield on that issue. That is all in the finances and vice versa of Russia equal. Nobody is better than anybody I am doing—no more, no less. This is and President Trump. It does not in else. not a court. All I am saying is putting any manner, shape, or form, Mr. What I am saying to you tonight, Mr. forth the rationale behind the resolu- Speaker, go into any partnership which Speaker, is that this goes to the very tion which I have put forth today—put may exist. There is nothing about that. heart of the issue and why this is a forth yesterday and was read today.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00066 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.065 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4293 We have nothing but evidence to jus- will be followed by a 5-minute vote on Castro (TX) Jayapal Peters tify an examination, Mr. Speaker. This the motion to suspend the rules and Chu, Judy Jeffries Peterson Cicilline Johnson (GA) Pingree is not hot air. If and when such con- pass H.R. 1177. Clark (MA) Johnson, E. B. Pocan flicts are revealed, I do not want to say The vote was taken by electronic de- Clarke (NY) Jones Polis to our constituents that we had the vice, and there were—yeas 229, nays Clay Kaptur Price (NC) Cleaver Keating power to review these conflicts, but we 188, answered ‘‘present’’ 1, not voting Quigley Clyburn Kelly (IL) Raskin did nothing. I for one do not want the 12, as follows: Cohen Kennedy Rice (NY) integrity—my integrity, the integrity Connolly Khanna Richmond [Roll No. 261] Conyers Kihuen Rosen of my colleagues, and the integrity of Cooper Kildee YEAS—229 Roybal-Allard this House—to be demeaned by such a Correa Kilmer Abraham Goodlatte Palazzo Ruiz Costa Kind shameful failure. That goes to the very Aderholt Gosar Palmer Ruppersberger Courtney Krishnamoorthi heart in their own words of what of a Allen Gowdy Paulsen Crist Kuster (NH) Rush Amash Granger Pearce privileged resolution is. Crowley Langevin Ryan (OH) Amodei Graves (GA) Perry To restore the dignity of the House, Cuellar Larsen (WA) Sa´ nchez Arrington Graves (LA) Pittenger Cummings Larson (CT) Sarbanes we must use our authority to request Babin Graves (MO) Poe (TX) Davis (CA) Lawrence Schakowsky President Trump’s tax returns and give Bacon Griffith Poliquin Davis, Danny Lawson (FL) Schneider Banks (IN) Grothman Posey the American people the transparency DeFazio Lee Schrader Barletta Guthrie Ratcliffe DeGette Levin Scott (VA) they deserve. Barr Harper Reed Delaney Lewis (GA) Scott, David My concluding statement is this, Mr. Barton Harris Reichert DeLauro Lieu, Ted Serrano Bergman Hartzler Renacci Speaker: I mentioned Vanderbilt before DelBene Lipinski Sewell (AL) Biggs Hensarling Rice (SC) because that is a very powerful state- Demings Loebsack Shea-Porter Bilirakis Herrera Beutler Roby DeSaulnier Lofgren ment he made—a very rich guy. He felt Bishop (MI) Hice, Jody B. Roe (TN) Sherman Deutch Lowenthal he could do anything: The law? What Bishop (UT) Higgins (LA) Rogers (AL) Sinema Dingell Lowey Black Hill Rogers (KY) Sires law? I am all the power. Doggett Lujan Grisham, Blackburn Holding Rohrabacher Slaughter This is not the United States of Doyle, Michael M. Blum Hollingsworth Rokita Smith (WA) F. Luja´ n, Ben Ray America, this is not our democracy, Bost Hudson Rooney, Francis Soto Ellison Lynch Brady (TX) Huizenga Rooney, Thomas Speier and this is not what Republicans and Engel Maloney, Brat Hultgren J. Suozzi Democrats have fought for since they Eshoo Carolyn B. Bridenstine Hunter Ros-Lehtinen Swalwell (CA) Espaillat Maloney, Sean have been in this House and before. I Brooks (AL) Hurd Roskam Takano Esty (CT) Matsui stand with us in only getting what we Brooks (IN) Issa Ross Thompson (CA) Evans McCollum Buchanan Jenkins (KS) Rothfus Thompson (MS) deserve, and then we decide whether we Foster McEachin Buck Jenkins (WV) Rouzer will communicate it to the American Frankel (FL) McGovern Titus Bucshon Johnson (LA) Royce (CA) Fudge McNerney Tonko people through the Speaker. Budd Johnson (OH) Russell Gabbard Meeks Torres Mr. Speaker, I thank you for your Burgess Jordan Rutherford Gallego Meng Tsongas Byrne Joyce (OH) Scalise courtesies. Garamendi Moore Vargas Calvert Katko Schweikert The SPEAKER pro tempore. The ma- Gonzalez (TX) Moulton Veasey Carter (GA) Kelly (MS) Scott, Austin Gottheimer Murphy (FL) Vela terial referenced by the gentleman’s Carter (TX) Kelly (PA) Sensenbrenner Green, Al Nadler Vela´ zquez Chabot King (IA) Sessions earlier unanimous consent request will Green, Gene Neal Visclosky Cheney King (NY) Shimkus be inserted following disposition of the Grijalva Nolan Walz Coffman Kinzinger Shuster Hanabusa Norcross Wasserman question of order. Collins (GA) Knight Simpson Hastings O’Halleran Schultz The Chair is prepared to rule. Collins (NY) Kustoff (TN) Smith (MO) Heck O’Rourke Waters, Maxine Comer Labrador Smith (NE) The gentleman from New Jersey Himes Pallone Watson Coleman Comstock LaHood Smith (NJ) seeks to offer a resolution as a ques- Hoyer Panetta Welch Conaway LaMalfa Smith (TX) Huffman Pascrell Wilson (FL) tion of the privileges of the House Cook Lamborn Smucker Jackson Lee Perlmutter Yarmuth under rule IX. Costello (PA) Lance Stefanik As the Chair ruled most recently on Cramer Latta Stewart ANSWERED ‘‘PRESENT’’—1 April 5, 2017, the resolution directs the Crawford Lewis (MN) Stivers Culberson LoBiondo Taylor Sanford Committee on Ways and Means to meet Curbelo (FL) Long Tenney NOT VOTING—12 and consider an item of business under Davidson Loudermilk Thompson (PA) the procedures set forth in 26 U.S.C. Davis, Rodney Love Thornberry Chaffetz Higgins (NY) Nunes Denham Lucas Tiberi Cole Johnson, Sam Payne 6103 and, therefore, does not qualify as Dent Luetkemeyer Tipton DeSantis Napolitano Pelosi a question of the privileges of the DesJarlais MacArthur Trott Gutie´rrez Newhouse Schiff House. Diaz-Balart Marchant Turner b 1821 Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, I ap- Donovan Marino Upton Duffy Marshall Valadao peal the ruling of the Chair. Ms. SPEIER changed her vote from Duncan (SC) Massie Wagner ‘‘yea’’ to ‘‘nay.’’ The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Duncan (TN) Mast Walberg question is, Shall the decision of the Dunn McCarthy Walden Mr. POSEY changed his vote from Chair stand as the judgment of the Emmer McCaul Walker ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ Estes (KS) McClintock Walorski House? So the motion was agreed to. Farenthold McHenry Walters, Mimi The result of the vote was announced MOTION TO TABLE Faso McKinley Weber (TX) as above recorded. Mr. ROTHFUS. Mr. Speaker, I have a Ferguson McMorris Webster (FL) Fitzpatrick Rodgers Wenstrup A motion to reconsider was laid on motion at the desk. Fleischmann McSally Westerman the table. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Flores Meadows Williams The material previously referred to Clerk will report the motion. Fortenberry Meehan Wilson (SC) Foxx Messer Wittman by Mr. PASCRELL is as follows: The Clerk read as follows: Franks (AZ) Mitchell Womack Mr. Rothfus moves that the appeal be laid Frelinghuysen Moolenaar Woodall [From the Wall Street Journal] on the table. Gaetz Mooney (WV) Yoder RUSSIAN STATE-RUN BANK FINANCED DEAL The SPEAKER pro tempore. The Gallagher Mullin Yoho INVOLVING TRUMP HOTEL PARTNER Garrett Murphy (PA) Young (AK) (By Rob Barry, Christopher S. Stewart and question is on the motion to table. Gibbs Noem Young (IA) The question was taken; and the Gohmert Olson Zeldin Brett Forrest) VEB, a Russian state-run bank under scru- Speaker pro tempore announced that NAYS—188 the ayes appeared to have it. tiny by U.S. investigators, financed a deal Adams Blumenauer Bustos Mr. PASCRELL. Mr. Speaker, on involving Donald Trump’s onetime partner Aguilar Blunt Rochester Butterfield in a Toronto hotel tower at a key moment ´ that I demand the yeas and nays. Barragan Bonamici Capuano for the project, according to people familiar Bass Boyle, Brendan Carbajal The yeas and nays were ordered. with the transaction. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Pursu- Beatty F. Ca´ rdenas Bera Brady (PA) Carson (IN) Alexander Shnaider, a Russian-Canadian ant to clause 8 of rule XX, this 15- Beyer Brown (MD) Cartwright developer who built the 65–story Trump minute vote on the motion to table Bishop (GA) Brownley (CA) Castor (FL) International Hotel and Tower, put money

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00067 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.100 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4294 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 into the project after receiving hundreds of meeting was part of his role during the REMOVING OUTDATED RESTRIC- millions of dollars from a separate asset sale Trump transition as the ‘‘primary point of TIONS TO ALLOW FOR JOB that involved the Russian bank, whose full contact with foreign government officials.’’ GROWTH ACT name is Vnesheconombank. The Toronto project was billed in 2007 as a Mr. Shnaider sold his company’s share in a joint venture between Mr. Trump and Mr. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The un- Ukrainian steelmaker for about $850 million Shnaider and was projected to cost about 500 finished business is the vote on the mo- in 2010, according to S&P Global Market In- million Canadian dollars. Mr. Trump said at tion to suspend the rules and pass the telligence. According to two people with the time he would manage the hotel’s oper- bill (H.R. 1177) to direct the Secretary knowledge of the deal, the buyer, which ations and Mr. Shnaider planned to develop of Agriculture to release on behalf of hasn’t been identified publicly, was an entity the tower, which also would include con- acting for the Russian government. VEB ini- the United States the condition that dominiums, through his company, Talon certain lands conveyed to the City of tiated the purchase and provided the money, International Development Inc. these people say. Old Town, Maine, be used for a munic- U.S. investigators are looking into any ties The project has been dogged by financial ipal airport, and for other purposes, on between Russian financial institutions, Mr. problems. In November, it entered insol- which the yeas and nays were ordered. vency proceedings, and a judge in March ap- Trump and anyone in his orbit, according to The Clerk read the title of the bill. a person familiar with the probe. As part of proved its sale. The SPEAKER pro tempore. The the investigation, they’re examining inter- Alan Garten, the Trump Organization’s actions between Mr. Trump, his associates general counsel, said the company ‘‘was not question is on the motion offered by and VEB, which is now subject to U.S. sanc- the owner, developer or seller’’ of the the gentleman from Illinois (Mr. ROD- tions, said another person familiar with the project. While The Wall Street Journal and NEY DAVIS) that the House suspend the matter. The Toronto deal adds a new ele- others reported in 2011 and 2012 that Mr. rules and pass the bill. ment to the list of known connections be- Trump had a minor ownership stake in it, This is a 5-minute vote. tween Mr. Trump’s associates and Russia. Mr. Garten now says Mr. Trump ‘‘did not The vote was taken by electronic de- After Mr. Shnaider and his partner sold hold’’ equity and had no involvement with vice, and there were—yeas 418, nays 1, their stake in the steelmaker, Mr. Shnaider the financing. injected more money into the Trump To- not voting 11, as follows: The Trump Toronto Hotel Management ronto project, which was financially trou- Corp. has received at least $611,000 in fees [Roll No. 262] bled. Mr. Shnaider’s lawyer, Symon Zucker, from the project since 2015, federal financial- YEAS—418 said in an April interview that about $15 mil- disclosure forms filed last May show. The lion from the asset sale went into the Trump Abraham Cleaver Foster forms don’t disclose the company’s total in- Adams Clyburn Foxx Toronto project. A day later, he wrote in an come from the deal. Aderholt Coffman Frankel (FL) email: ‘‘I am not able to confirm that any Aguilar Cohen Franks (AZ) funds’’ from the deal ‘‘went into the Toronto Shortly after the project broke ground in Allen Collins (GA) Frelinghuysen project.’’ 2007, about 85% of the units were presold. Amodei Collins (NY) Fudge A spokesman for the Trump Organization, During the financial crisis, some buyers Arrington Comer Gabbard the family’s real-estate firm, said Mr. Trump pulled out and others were unable to get fi- Babin Comstock Gaetz had no involvement in any financial dealings nancing, receivership documents show. Mid- Bacon Conaway Gallagher with VEB and that the Trump company land Resources Holding Ltd., then owned by Banks (IN) Connolly Gallego Mr. Shnaider and a partner, was on the hook Barletta Conyers Garamendi ‘‘merely licensed its brand and manages the Barr Cook Garrett hotel and residences.’’ VEB didn’t respond to for cost overruns, the documents show. Barraga´ n Cooper Gibbs requests for comment. Midland Resources had acquired its stake Barton Correa Gohmert Mr. Trump has said he has no dealings with in the Ukrainian steelmaker, called Bass Costa Gonzalez (TX) Russia. ‘‘To the best of my knowledge, no Zaporizhstal, for about $70 million after the Beatty Costello (PA) Goodlatte person that I deal with does,’’ he said in Feb- collapse of the Soviet Union. The 2010 trans- Bera Courtney Gosar Bergman Cramer Gottheimer ruary. On Friday, Mr. Trump’s lawyers re- action to sell it was opaque. Midland trans- leased a two-month-old letter stating that 10 Beyer Crawford Gowdy ferred ownership of its portion of the Biggs Crist Granger years of his tax returns show little income, steelmaker to the unnamed buyer through Bilirakis Crowley Graves (GA) investments or debt from Russian sources five offshore companies, according to Mr. Bishop (GA) Cuellar Graves (LA) beyond items already known to the public. Shnaider’s lawyer and court documents. Bishop (MI) Culberson Graves (MO) VEB has long been viewed by Russian ana- Bishop (UT) Cummings Green, Al lysts as a vehicle for the Russian govern- The idea for the deal was brought to a top Black Curbelo (FL) Green, Gene ment to fund politically important projects, VEB executive by a former Ukrainian gov- Blackburn Davidson Griffith including the 2014 Winter Olympics in Sochi. ernment official, according to an investment Blum Davis (CA) Grijalva A VEB executive in New York was sentenced banker familiar with what happened. Al- Blumenauer Davis, Danny Grothman though the buyer wasn’t named, a steel trad- Blunt Rochester Davis, Rodney Guthrie to prison last year after pleading guilty to Bonamici DeFazio Hanabusa conspiring to act in the U.S. as a Russian er with knowledge of the deal said VEB itself ended up with control of Midland’s share of Bost DeGette Harper agent without notifying U.S. authorities. Boyle, Brendan Delaney Harris In the wake of U.S. intelligence agency the steelmaker. At the time, Russian enti- F. DeLauro Hartzler findings that Russian government-directed ties saw gaining control of large industrial Brady (PA) DelBene Hastings hackers interfered in the 2016 election, sev- assets in Ukraine as having strategic value Brady (TX) Demings Heck eral agencies, including the Federal Bureau to Russian political interests in the future, Brat Denham Hensarling Bridenstine Dent Herrera Beutler of Investigation, are conducting a counter- said another investment banker with knowledge of the deal. Brooks (AL) DeSantis Hice, Jody B. intelligence probe into whether Mr. Trump’s Brooks (IN) DeSaulnier Higgins (LA) campaign staff had any contact with Russian Mr. Zucker, Mr. Shnaider’s lawyer, said Brown (MD) DesJarlais Hill officials. Committees in the House of Rep- Midland Resources ‘‘has never had any rela- Brownley (CA) Deutch Himes resentatives and the Senate also are inves- tionship with VEB’’ and ‘‘does not dictate Buchanan Diaz-Balart Holding tigating the matter. Russian authorities where their purchasers borrow funds.’’ He de- Buck Dingell Hollingsworth have denied any interference. clined to identify the buyer, citing confiden- Bucshon Doggett Hoyer At the time of Mr. Shnaider’s steelmaker Budd Donovan Hudson tiality provisions, other than to say it was a Burgess Doyle, Michael Huffman deal, Russian President Vladimir Putin was ‘‘Ukrainian industrial group.’’ Bustos F. Huizenga chairman of VEB’s supervisory board, and Mr. Shnaider’s companies continued to Butterfield Duffy Hultgren major deals would have been approved by pump money into the Toronto tower as it Byrne Duncan (SC) Hunter him, according to a former Russian govern- struggled to stay afloat, according to his Calvert Duncan (TN) Hurd Capuano Dunn Issa ment official and several Russian govern- lawyer and later court documents. Later, ment and economic experts. The bank later Carbajal Ellison Jackson Lee Mr. Shnaider became embroiled in a legal ´ was placed on the U.S. sanctions list after Cardenas Emmer Jayapal battle with Mr. Trump’s companies over Carson (IN) Engel Jeffries Russia’s intrusion into Ukraine and its an- management issues. The Trump Organiza- Carter (GA) Eshoo Jenkins (KS) nexation of Crimea in 2014. American enti- tion declined to comment. Carter (TX) Espaillat Jenkins (WV) ties are barred from financial involvement Cartwright Estes (KS) Johnson (GA) with the bank. In November, a Canadian judge placed the Castor (FL) Esty (CT) Johnson (LA) VEB made headlines when it emerged that tower into receivership. Mr. Trump’s com- Castro (TX) Evans Johnson (OH) its chairman met with Mr. Trump’s son-in- pany was owed C$116,165.72, and Mr. Chabot Farenthold Johnson, E. B. law, Jared Kushner in December. A bank Shnaider’s company as much as C$105 mil- Cheney Faso Jones lion, court documents show. Chu, Judy Ferguson Jordan spokesperson has said VEB’s leaders met Mr. Cicilline Fitzpatrick Joyce (OH) Kushner and numerous global financial ex- Recently, a judge approved the sale of the Clark (MA) Fleischmann Kaptur ecutives as it developed a new strategy for building to a California-based investment Clarke (NY) Flores Katko the bank. Mr. Spicer has said Mr. Kushner’s firm for about $220 million. Clay Fortenberry Keating

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:36 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00068 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.062 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4295 Kelly (IL) Mooney (WV) Sensenbrenner PERSONAL EXPLANATION expediency over the health of those Kelly (MS) Moore Serrano Kelly (PA) Moulton Sessions Mr. SCHIFF. Mr. Speaker, I was unavoid- who have worn our Nation’s uniform. Kennedy Mullin Sewell (AL) ably detained. Had I been present, I would Congress has taken steps to reform Khanna Murphy (FL) Shea-Porter have voted ‘‘nay’’ on rollcall No. 261 and the Veterans Administration, but we Kihuen Murphy (PA) Sherman ‘‘yea’’ on rollcall No. 262. must finish our job. That is why I was Kildee Nadler Shimkus Kilmer Neal Shuster f proud to vote ‘‘yes’’ on H.R. 1259, the Kind Noem Simpson VA Accountability First Act. Amer- King (IA) Nolan Sinema AMERICAN LAW ENFORCEMENT ican veterans are counting on us to King (NY) Norcross Sires HEROES ACT OF 2017 keep our promises and protect them Kinzinger O’Halleran Slaughter Knight O’Rourke Smith (MO) Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I ask from self-serving bureaucrats. I intend Krishnamoorthi Olson Smith (NE) unanimous consent to take from the to do just that. Kuster (NH) Palazzo Smith (NJ) Speaker’s table the bill (S. 583) to f Kustoff (TN) Pallone Smith (TX) Labrador Palmer Smith (WA) amend the Omnibus Crime Control and REMEMBERING FALLEN POLICE LaHood Panetta Smucker Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize OFFICERS LaMalfa Pascrell Soto COPS grantees to use grant funds to Lamborn Paulsen Speier hire veterans as career law enforce- (Mrs. DEMINGS asked and was given Lance Pearce Stefanik permission to address the House for 1 Langevin Perlmutter Stewart ment officers, and for other purposes, Larsen (WA) Perry Stivers and ask for its immediate consider- minute.) Larson (CT) Peters Suozzi ation in the House. Mrs. DEMINGS. Mr. Speaker, during Latta Peterson Swalwell (CA) National Police Week, it is important Lawrence Pingree The Clerk read the title of the bill. Takano we continue to remember the brave Lawson (FL) Pittenger Taylor The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Lee Pocan Tenney ARRINGTON). Is there objection to the men and women who were killed while Levin Poe (TX) Thompson (CA) request of the gentleman from Vir- protecting us. Lewis (GA) Poliquin Thompson (MS) Lewis (MN) Polis Last year, 145 law enforcement offi- Thompson (PA) ginia? Lieu, Ted Posey cers were killed in the line of duty. One Thornberry There was no objection. Lipinski Price (NC) Tiberi of these officers, Lesley Zerebny, 27 LoBiondo Quigley The text of the bill is as follows: Tipton years old, was an officer with the Palm Loebsack Raskin Titus S. 583 Lofgren Ratcliffe Springs Police Department. She was Tonko Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- Long Reed responding to a domestic disturbance Torres Loudermilk Reichert resentatives of the United States of America in Trott call when she was gunned down. She Love Renacci Congress assembled, Tsongas was killed just days after returning Lowenthal Rice (NY) SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. Turner Lowey Rice (SC) from maternity leave and left behind a Upton This Act may be cited as the ‘‘American Lucas Richmond Valadao Law Enforcement Heroes Act of 2017’’. 4-month-old daughter. Luetkemeyer Roby Her fellow officer, Jose Gilbert Vega, Lujan Grisham, Roe (TN) Vargas SEC. 2. PRIORITIZING HIRING AND TRAINING OF M. Rogers (AL) Veasey VETERANS. was also murdered in the shooting. A Luja´ n, Ben Ray Rogers (KY) Vela Section 1701(b)(2) of title I of the Omnibus devoted father, Vega was just days Vela´ zquez Lynch Rohrabacher Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 away from retiring. MacArthur Rokita Visclosky Wagner (42 U.S.C. 3796dd(b)(2)) is amended by insert- Of the officers killed last year, 10 Maloney, Rooney, Francis ing ‘‘, including by prioritizing the hiring Carolyn B. Rooney, Thomas Walberg were State troopers. One of them was Maloney, Sean J. Walden and training of veterans (as defined in sec- Trooper Timothy Pratt of the New Marchant Ros-Lehtinen Walker tion 101 of title 38, United States Code)’’ York State Police. Trooper Pratt was Marino Rosen Walorski after ‘‘Nation’’. Walters, Mimi struck by a car as he was on the side of Marshall Roskam The bill was ordered to be read a Massie Ross Walz the road assisting a stopped vehicle. Mast Rothfus Wasserman third time, was read the third time, Pratt had 30 years on the job. Schultz Matsui Rouzer and passed, and a motion to reconsider Our law enforcement officers don’t McCarthy Roybal-Allard Waters, Maxine was laid on the table. McCaul Royce (CA) Watson Coleman know what they will encounter when McClintock Ruiz Weber (TX) f they respond to any call. We applaud McCollum Ruppersberger Webster (FL) them for the bravery and courage they McEachin Rush Welch CONGRESS MUST FINISH REFORM display in the face of danger. Mr. McGovern Russell Wenstrup OF THE VETERANS ADMINISTRA- Westerman Speaker, let us not forget their sac- McHenry Rutherford TION McKinley Ryan (OH) Williams rifices. McMorris Sa´ nchez Wilson (FL) (Mr. BIGGS asked and was given per- f Rodgers Sanford Wilson (SC) mission to address the House for 1 McNerney Sarbanes Wittman VETERANS DESERVE THE BEST McSally Scalise Womack minute and to revise and extend his re- Meadows Schakowsky Woodall marks.) CARE POSSIBLE Meehan Schneider Yarmuth Mr. BIGGS. Mr. Speaker, last week a (Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania Meeks Schrader Yoder Meng Schweikert Yoho Federal court temporarily overturned asked and was given permission to ad- Messer Scott (VA) Young (AK) the termination of the fired Phoenix dress the House for 1 minute and to re- Mitchell Scott, Austin Young (IA) VA hospital director, Sharon Helman. vise and extend his remarks.) Moolenaar Scott, David Zeldin Helman was relieved of her duties in Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania. NAYS—1 2015 after a whistleblower disclosed a Mr. Speaker, I rise today during Men- Amash string of scandals, including manipula- tal Health Awareness Month to talk NOT VOTING—11 tion of wait times to collect perform- about a growing group of individuals ance bonuses. Even worse, in a separate who need our help: our veterans. Chaffetz Johnson, Sam Payne Cole Napolitano Pelosi court case, she pled guilty and was con- More than 16 percent of veterans Gutie´rrez Newhouse Schiff victed of accepting over $50,000 in ille- have been diagnosed with a depressive Higgins (NY) Nunes gal gifts. For this, she is currently on disorder. Up to 43 percent struggle with probation. symptoms of mental health issues, b 1829 Mr. Speaker, Congress must take such as drinking excessively, smoking, Mr. MCEACHIN changed his vote swift action to ensure former and cur- or sleeplessness. These struggles have from ‘‘nay’’ to ‘‘yea.’’ rent VA employees like Ms. Helman resulted in an unacceptably high sui- So (two-thirds being in the affirma- are held accountable. Those who dis- cide rate for our veterans. Every day, tive) the rules were suspended and the regard their duty to our Nation’s vet- 20 veterans take their own lives, which bill was passed. erans should never be allowed to keep is almost double the rate of non- The result of the vote was announced their jobs, salaries, or benefits after veterans. as above recorded. proven dereliction of duty. Our vet- Mr. Speaker, this is heartbreaking. It A motion to reconsider was laid on erans do not deserve—and they cannot is unacceptable, and we must act. That the table. afford—VA leaders who put profit and is why I was proud today to join with

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:50 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00069 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.049 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4296 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 Congressman TIM RYAN in introducing get up every morning, put on their uni- And who will go for us?’’ And I said, the Veterans Wellness Act of 2017. form and badge, leave their families, ‘‘Here am I. Send me.’’ This bill brings mental healthcare to and serve us all, keeping our cities and Mr. Speaker, take that as a thank- our veterans by establishing a 2-year towns safe and trying to build the trust you from myself and the citizens of the grant program to provide wellness care and faith among our citizens. Fifth District of Virginia to those pro- and additional therapies at veteran I respect and appreciate the impor- fessional men and women who serve us service organizations like the Amer- tant work of our police and our law en- every day. ican Legion, the VFW, and AMVETS. forcement men and women in Arkansas f Many offer skilled assistance with VA and throughout the Nation. They de- enrollment that could help our vet- serve our gratitude. HOKA HEY erans get the care that they so des- f (Mr. OLSON asked and was given per- perately need. mission to address the House for 1 I look forward to working with my PANDEMONIUM COMING OUT OF THE WHITE HOUSE minute and to revise and extend his re- colleagues in the House to ensure our marks.) veterans receive the best care possible. (Mr. ESPAILLAT asked and was Mr. OLSON. Mr. Speaker, it is time f given permission to address the House that all of America knows a phrase for 1 minute.) that the Manvel Mavericks in the 22nd OUR NATION’S INFRASTRUCTURE Mr. ESPAILLAT. Mr. Speaker, when District of Texas know well. The NEEDS I was sworn in to office, I made a com- phrase is ‘‘Hoka Hey. Hoka Hey.’’ That (Mrs. BEATTY asked and was given mitment to support and defend the means be unselfish; compete for team, permission to address the House for 1 Constitution of these United States. school, and town. Hoka Hey carried the minute.) Our President’s latest actions have Mavericks to the men’s track and field Mrs. BEATTY. Mr. Speaker, I rise shown us that we cannot trust him to team title for Texas 5A. That happened today with hundreds of business, labor, do the same. last week. and advocacy organizations to recog- Whether it is a lapse of judgment or The team started rough. After seven nize National Infrastructure Week. The just plain inexperience, the pandemo- events, they had 8 points. They were in purpose of this week is to highlight the nium coming out of the White House is 10th place. But the spirit of Hoka Hey state of the Nation’s infrastructure and worse than a scene from ‘‘House of came back during the relays. Our guys its critical importance to our economy Cards’’ and well-being. The method in which Trump chose to burned up the track. When the relays Building and strengthening our infra- reveal classified intelligence to Rus- were over, the Mavs had 50 points and structure is vital to all of us, but it of- sian officials—impulsive; Port Arthur Memorial, 41. tentimes goes unnoticed. Our Nation’s The way Trump chose to fire FBI Di- Hoka Hey had 85 points when the deteriorating infrastructure is ham- rector Comey—imprudent; meet was over. They were the State pering our ability to compete in the And, if the latest reports are true, champions. Congratulations, Hoka Hey thriving global economy and create the way Trump chose to interfere with Manvel Mavericks, State champions, jobs that our Nation needs. As an ex- the FBI investigation of National Secu- Texas 5A. ample, in my home State of Ohio, we rity Adviser Michael Flynn—impeach- f face significant challenges: 17 percent able. b 1845 of the public roads are in poor condi- I don’t use this last ‘‘i’’ word lightly, tion, and almost 7 percent of all the but for love of country and democracy, GIVE BACK THE FUTURES OF bridges are structurally deficient. and as an American, I hope this is not HARDWORKING AMERICANS Mr. Speaker, we cannot continue to true. If it is, this is a blatant obstruc- (Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH asked and turn a blind eye to our Nation’s infra- tion of justice and a grave, grave of- was given permission to address the structure needs. Congress must work fense. House for 1 minute.) The SPEAKER pro tempore. Mem- together to upgrade our Nation’s high- Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH. Mr. Speaker, bers are reminded to refrain from en- ways, bridges, airports, water systems, I rise today because, after coming back gaging in personalities toward the energy grid, broadband network, and from Indiana for the last 8 days, I President. the like so that our economy can con- wanted to report what I saw. tinue to lead the world in the 21st cen- f What I saw was too much hopeless- tury and beyond. THANK YOU TO LAW ness, too much despair, in the eyes of f ENFORCEMENT PROFESSIONALS too many hardworking Hoosiers, who LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS (Mr. GARRETT asked and was given no longer feel that they have control of DESERVE OUR GRATITUDE permission to address the House for 1 their financial future, who no longer (Mr. HILL asked and was given per- minute and to revise and extend his re- feel that they can participate in the mission to address the House for 1 marks.) American Dream, and who no longer minute and to revise and extend his re- Mr. GARRETT. Mr. Speaker, during feel that they can start small busi- marks.) this National Police Week, I wish to, nesses of their own. But I told them Mr. HILL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today on behalf of myself and the fine citi- every single day when I was back home during National Police Week to pay zens of the Fifth District of Virginia, this past week what we are doing to tribute to the Nation’s law enforce- extend our thank-you. change that to roll back the provisions ment men and women. Since 1791, greater than 22,000 law en- of Dodd-Frank that have put undue Established in 1962 by President Ken- forcement professionals have given burdens on lenders trying to help small nedy, National Police Week serves as a their lives in the line of duty—over 70 businesses across Indiana’s Ninth Dis- reminder of the incredible sacrifice our in a single day in 2001, including 37 trict, and across this country, grow and police officers make every day to serve from the NYPD and 23 from the Port get started; to help hardworking Hoo- and protect the people in our States Authority Police—an average of over siers be able to start small businesses and communities. 140 a year. And yet these men and so they have control over their fami- Just last week, Lieutenant Kevin women who look like us—every race, lies’ future again; to help individuals Mainhart of the Yell County Sheriff’s every color, every gender—are the best be able to get jobs at growing enter- Department was killed in the line of of us because every day they get up and prises because they have access to cap- duty during a traffic stop in go to work again. ital. Dardanelle, Arkansas. This tragedy re- Mr. Speaker, when I served in the Over the past few years, loan growth minds us of the danger that all of our military, I became familiar with Isaiah has stagnated. In the past 100 years, men and women who police our streets 6:8, and I cite that verse in thanking coming out of recessions, we have typi- have to face. our law enforcement professionals: cally seen a loan growth of 63 percent, Every American should be proud of And then the voice of the Lord spoke but it has only been 18 percent. It is our neighbors and fellow citizens who to us and said, ‘‘Whom shall I send? the difference between those two that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:36 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00070 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.108 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4297 has curtailed the futures of many hard- REICHERT. And I thank him for not that his committee is looking at. I ap- working Americans. I want to make only his leadership in the House but preciate it. sure we give that back to them. That is also for his service as a sheriff for It is an honor for me, Mr. Speaker, to why I am voting in support of the many years prior to his election to lead this Special Order. I am very hum- CHOICE Act, and I urge my colleagues Congress. bled at the response that we have re- to do the same. Our Nation was founded on the rule ceived tonight by the Members who f of law. The Preamble to the United want to be here and talk about their States Constitution stated that its pur- law enforcement officers in their com- HONORING LAW ENFORCEMENT pose was, in part, to ‘‘establish justice’’ munities. The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under and ‘‘insure domestic tranquility.’’ Another one of our Members who the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- Every day, law enforcement officers wants to share his thoughts and feel- uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Wash- carry out this legacy. They fight ings is the son of a State trooper from ington (Mr. REICHERT) is recognized for crime, promote justice, and keep the Georgia. 60 minutes as the designee of the ma- peace. They patrol late at night and Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman jority leader. early in the morning, while we sleep in from Georgia (Mr. COLLINS). GENERAL LEAVE the comforts of our homes. Mr. COLLINS of Georgia. Mr. Speak- Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I ask And over the past 16 years, our Na- er, this is a special time as a trooper’s unanimous consent that all Members tion’s law enforcement officers have kid. When I think about that and I may have 5 legislative days in which to often been the first to respond to ter- think about this wall and I think about revise and extend their remarks and in- rorist attacks. On that fateful day, the heroes that I am looking at stand- clude extraneous materials on the nearly 16 years ago, first responders ing here, I am thinking about my own topic of this Special Order. were running into the crumbling tow- father who I just talked to a few mo- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there ers as everyone else was running out. ments ago—31 years as a Georgia State objection to the request of the gen- Following the Boston Marathon bomb- patrol. My mom is with him right now. tleman from Washington? ings in April of 2013, Boston police re- They have been the example of what There was no objection. sponded immediately to aid the wound- law enforcement goes through so many Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, on ed and implement emergency plans. times. Monday this week, hundreds of fami- That legacy has carried on through the I will share, in just a few more min- lies, friends, colleagues, and loved ones recent catastrophes in San Bernardino, utes, about that, but I did want to re- from every corner of the country gath- Orlando, and too many others. mind you why we are here, and think- ered at the United States Capitol for Sadly, many law enforcement offi- ing about this memorial, Georgia offi- the 36th annual National Peace Officers cers have made the ultimate sacrifice cers who have fallen in 2017 already: Memorial Day. They were here to on our behalf. Just this year already, 50 Deputy Sheriff Michael Butler, honor all of those names at the memo- law enforcement officers have died in Lowndes County Sheriff’s Office; and rial, 21,000 names, Mr. Speaker. And the line of duty, including Deputy Sergeant Gregory Michael Meagher, this year, 394 more were added. Now, Sheriff Curtis Allen Bartlett of Carroll Richmond County Sheriff’s Office. some of those are over past years—not County, Virginia, who was killed in a this past year, but prior years—but 394 vehicle crash while responding to assist In 2016, we saw Jody Carl Smith, additional names were added to the Na- another deputy and a Virginia State Georgia Southwestern State University tional Law Enforcement Officers Me- Police trooper who were involved in a Department of Public Safety; Officer morial. Their names will ever be pursuit. These are tragic reminders Nicholas Ryan Smarr, Americus Police etched in our hearts and on the walls of that our law enforcement professionals Department; Deputy Sheriff Justin the National Law Enforcement Officers face danger every day as they carry out Scott White, Newton County Sheriff’s Memorial, and, as I said, with 21,000 their duties. Office; Deputy Sheriff Daryl Wayne others who came before them. Chillingly, in recent years, police of- Smallwood, Peach County Sheriff’s Of- People who walk by and view these ficers have increasingly become targets fice; Sergeant Patrick Michael names may not recognize the names or for violence and ambush-style attacks. Sondron, Peach County Sheriff’s Office; may not know all of the names. They Tomorrow, this House will vote to en- Officer Timothy Kevin Smith, Eastman may have a special loved one whose sure that State and local law enforce- Police Department; Investigator An- name appears on those hollowed walls. ment officers receive the same protec- thony Joseph Freeman, Bibb County But the thing to remember here is that tions as their Federal counterparts. In Sheriff’s Office; and Major Gregory Eu- these are brothers, sisters, mothers, fa- fact, this week, the House will pass gene Barney, Riverdale Police Depart- thers, and some even grandfathers. more than half a dozen bills to help of- ment. They are real people who sacrificed ficers do their jobs and return home And then one, Mr. Speaker, that their lives. Some were ambushed and safely. came at a time in which the Sheriff executed, and some lost their lives re- As chairman of the Judiciary Com- and I were on the Police Working sponding to a call to save a life or mittee, I have the privilege to work Group. We were in Atlanta. We were someone who called for help. These are with Federal law enforcement. All too going through discussing the issues the men and women who gave their often, we fail to recognize how the that police are going through and how lives so we could, in many cases, keep dedicated men and women of law en- communities are coming together, and ours. forcement make sacrifices to promote we got word of a shooting in south I have a lot more to say on this, and law and order and keep our neighbor- Georgia. we have some time. I am going to yield hoods safe. That is true at every level: At the time, we just got a name, and to other Members, Mr. Speaker, who our local police and sheriff’s deputies, we weren’t really sure what had gone arrived here tonight to share their sto- our State police, and Federal law en- on, but we found out there was a shoot- ries and remember the officers who forcement officers in many different ing and there was a fatality involved. served their communities. departments of the Department of Jus- What I came to find out later was that Mr. Speaker, I yield to Chairman tice and other agencies. the gentleman who was killed was Dep- GOODLATTE, chairman of the Judiciary As a father, grandfather, husband, uty Commander U.S. Marshal Patrick Committee. and citizen, the men and women in blue Carothers of the Southeast Regional Mr. GOODLATTE. Mr. Speaker, I have my profound respect and sincere Task Force. He was a leader who didn’t want to express my appreciation to thanks. even have to be there that day. He DAVE REICHERT for taking the lead on Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank could have taken a step back. Instead, this very appropriate Special Order to the chairman. I thank him for all his he led the charge. He went in first, as recognize our Nation’s law enforce- hard work in his committee to support a leader does, and was killed. ment. No one better represents that law enforcement across the country. I As it became more and more clear, I law enforcement here in the United look forward to working with him on began to realize I had another special States Congress than former Sheriff some of the law enforcement reforms connection to Marshal Carothers. Just

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:36 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00071 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.110 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4298 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 a few months earlier, I had the privi- later. Instead, his fiancee, his three I met Kevin when we were preparing lege of appointing his son to the United daughters, and his granddaughter at- for trial. He was an essential witness, States Naval Academy. tended his funeral. They struggled— so I needed to prepare him for what It is a matter of family. It is a mat- and I am thinking they are still strug- would come during this trial. He would ter of heart. As someone growing up, gling today—to picture a life without be second-guessed. His every move who thought that it was sort of awk- him. would be scrutinized. In a very real ward having your dad come and pick Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman sense, he would not only be blamed for you up at school in his State patrol from South Carolina (Mr. GOWDY). Our Judy Seich’s murder, he would be car, and he thought it was pretty cute U.S. Attorney, prosecutor, knows law blamed for shooting one of the little when he put you in the back seat, and enforcement well, and he has a story to girls inside that home, and then he the kids were laughing. They would tell about one of his officers. would be blamed for not doing enough talk about it, and they would say: A Mr. GOWDY. Thank you, Sheriff. I to protect Judy Seich, not making the State trooper is coming to pick you up. want to start by thanking you for your right split-second decision. I would look at them and say: It is my service as a law enforcement officer I tried to prepare Kevin for what dad. But what they didn’t also see were and in Congress. And I call you sheriff would be a grueling cross-examination, the times when he would come home, when I pass by you because I always and it was clear to me his mind and and I would wake up at night, and my believe in calling people by their high- heart were somewhere else. So, finally, dad would be coming home to change est title. And as much as it is wonder- I said: Kevin, you didn’t do anything his shirt because it was ripped and torn ful, and I am sure the people in your wrong. You didn’t have a choice. and bloody from where he had been in- family are proud of your service in the He said: I know, Solicitor GOWDY. volved in a fight. What they didn’t United States Congress, I am proudest He had tears streaming down his face know was a young son, who had lis- of your willingness to sacrifice for the in my office. tened to all of the things people would people of Washington as their sheriff. He said: I know, Solicitor GOWDY, but say about police officers, and say: They Kevin Carper was a uniform patrol I shot that little girl. are talking about my dad. officer with the Spartanburg County Objectively, Kevin Carper did every- As one who has supported me all of Sheriff’s Office. He was not a detective. thing right that night. He responded to my life, I cannot pass this time up He was not in management. He was an incredibly tense domestic call. He without recognizing those who gave just a regular police officer like the was confronted with a man holding a the ultimate sacrifice and those who ones we see every day in our towns and gun. Was it a real gun? Was it loaded? continue to serve every day. It still cities. All of these thoughts going through his amazes me the Georgia State patrol Kevin responded to a domestic vio- mind; and as soon as William Seich has gone on. And now folks, when I lence call. Those who are unfamiliar shot and murdered his wife, he re- look in those blue and gray cars and with law enforcement have a tendency turned fire. the sheriff’s deputy cars, and those sometimes to refer to those as routine Objectively, we know everything he that I grew up watching, they were my calls. There is nothing routine about a did was right, but it didn’t matter how big brothers. Now I look in there and domestic violence call, and everyone in many times I told Kevin: You did the say: Who are those younger people law enforcement knows it. right thing. Deputy Kevin Carper heard riding in their cars? They are just car- Off of Airport Road in Spartanburg, me. Father, husband, Kevin Carper had rying on that blue line tradition. They South Carolina, Kevin and his partner tears streaming down his face at the are just carrying on that public service arrived to find William Seich on the thought that he would have hurt a that means so much. front porch of his small home pointing child. So tonight, Sheriff, you have done a a large caliber gun at his wife, Judy. Well, we went through the trial, and wonderful job of getting us here, be- Judy was crouched down in the front he was, as you might imagine, an indis- cause these folks have families, they yard, trying to protect herself, trying pensable witness. have kids, they have a responsibility, to shield herself behind a tree, and Wil- Mr. Speaker, he could not have done and they never turn from it. I thank liam was pointing the gun at her and, a better job in that murder trial. Yeah, the families who have lost and gave alternatively, pointing the gun at law he was a tough police officer in a uni- their loved ones, and I thank the fami- enforcement who had just arrived on form, but when it came time to de- lies who get up every day still with the scene. scribe walking on the front porch and their loved ones in the fight, and I You know, Sheriff REICHERT and Mr. hearing the cries of children, he be- thank my father who gave so much. Speaker, it all seems so easy in hind- came a husband and a father again, and Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank sight. Do you shoot? Do you pull the in front of a jury, Sheriff—and you the gentleman from Georgia. As he trigger? Is the gun real? You have split know this is hard for police to do in shared his story about his father, it re- seconds to make these decisions only front of a jury—this tough, brave man minded me of my own story of coming to have them second-guessed for broke down in tears, and the jury had home to my three young kids and my months, if not years afterward. Is the a chance to see the humanity of police uniform being torn and bloodied, in gun real? Is it loaded? officers. The jury had a chance to see some cases. I never really thought William Seich finally turned the gun that ‘‘protect and serve and defend’’ about what my kids or my spouse was toward his wife and he shot her. As he part of police officers. thinking when I came home. I was still was turning the gun towards law en- William Seich was convicted, in no wrapped up in the shift that I had just forcement, no doubt to shoot them, small part, because of Kevin Carper’s come from and the struggles that I had they returned fire. They struck Wil- help. In South Carolina, the sentencing been through on the streets. liam Seich. As one officer ran toward takes place immediately after the his fallen wife, Judy, Kevin Carper ran trial, so there was family to talk to b 1900 to the front porch to make sure that and to prepare them for the sentencing I served for 33 years in the King William Seich didn’t shoot anybody hearing so they could allocute on what County Sheriff’s Office, and I would do else. Judy Seich’s life meant to them and that job all over again, Mr. Speaker. I As he got on the front porch, Mr. what the proper punishment should be. loved it. Speaker, he heard the cries of children. Mr. Speaker and Sheriff REICHERT, I But I wanted to share another story, Unbeknownst to Kevin and his partner, wanted to tell Kevin what a great job too, of Officer Jake Gutierrez from the there were children inside that mobile he had done. I wanted to tell Kevin how Tacoma Police Department, which is a home, and the bullets from one of the impressed I was with his humanity. I city just south of Seattle. Officer officer’s guns had struck one of the wanted to tell Kevin—I intended to tell Gutierrez tragically died in the line of children. Kevin that he took a cynical old pros- duty. He lost his life while protecting a William Seich survived and was ecutor and he made him believe again woman from domestic violence. Jake charged with murder. Both of the little that there are women and men who go was supposed to exchange wedding girls ultimately survived, although one into this line of work for all the right vows with his fiancee just a few weeks was badly injured. reasons. That is what I intended to tell

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:08 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00072 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.111 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4299 him. But in the hustle and bustle of them belong. But thank you for the op- with the protesters, he opened fire on sentencing, he slipped out the back of portunity to speak at this very impor- them with the intent to kill as many the courtroom and we went on with the tant Special Order. as he could. So gunfire rang out and sentencing hearing. As you know, while you were a sher- bullets struck and killed Senior Cor- But I knew that I would see him iff in Washington, I was down at the poral Lorne Ahrens, Officer Michael again and I would have a chance to tell courthouse in Texas, first as a pros- Krol, Officer Patrick Zamarripa, and him. I would have a chance to tell his ecutor, like Lawyer GOWDY, and then, three Dallas police officers were boss: You need to watch that guy, for 22 years, I tried criminal cases, felo- wounded, along with a civilian. make him a homicide detective. He is nies, everything from stealing to kill- But the sniper wasn’t through yet. really good. ing. He headed back up Lamar Street—and I would have a chance to tell him he I met a lot of police, as I call them, that is in downtown Dallas—shooting did great by those little girls. I knew I during that time. Some of them, as Mr. out the windows of a nearby college would see him again and I would have GOWDY has pointed out, gave their lives campus, El Centro College campus. a chance to tell him again. in the line of duty. I met them in the During that time, he injured two El And I did see him again, laying be- middle of the night when they would Centro College police officers trying to side a roadside, shot to death during a come bringing a warrant to me to sign get into the school. routine traffic stop. He was shot by a so they could go arrest somebody while He had continued on his quest to kill man who had been arrested more than the rest of us all slept. They are doing officers and he snuck up behind a 30 times. what they do best, and that is pro- DART officer—his name, Brent Thomp- If you have ever attended an officer’s tecting and serving our communities. son—and shot him in the back and funeral, the finality of that death hits A lot of police officers—and I don’t killed him. He then turned his way on you the very hardest at the end where think it has been said yet—their job is to Elm Street nearby and shot his way they do the radio call: Deputy Kevin being a police officer, but most of them back into El Centro College. Carper, do you read? Deputy Kevin Car- have other jobs just to make ends All of this took about 20 minutes. Po- per, can you hear us? And, of course, meet. They have an extra job, as we lice officers were following this sniper, there is silence. And then at the end, it call it, because they don’t make a lot trying to capture him, but this indi- is: Deputy Kevin Carper, you are clear being a police officer. None of them vidual went up to the library in the to go home. ever do it for the money—none of them school and started firing down. His I never told Kevin what I should have anywhere in the world do it for the next victim was Officer Michael Smith, told him. Deputy Kevin Carper, you money. So to support their families, and he injured yet another DART offi- were a credit to law enforcement. Hus- they have to have other jobs to do that. cer. band, father, Kevin Carper, you are a I think we as a nation need to under- He was cornered in the library. Chief credit to humanity and your family. I stand and appreciate that they do what of Police Brown said: During that 2- wish I had told you when I should have they do because they feel, and it is, an hour-long negotiation, the individual told you. important service to our community. lied to us, played games, laughed at us, I hope that all of my other friends in Last year, 135 police officers through- sang, and continually asked how many prosecution and in law enforcement out the Nation were killed; 64 of them of those coppers did he kill? now will not wait too long to tell the were shot and killed, and 21 of those Eventually, the Dallas SWAT team men and women of law enforcement were ambushed. took care of the sniper, and he was how grateful they are for their service. Among the States, my home State of killed. Mr. REICHERT. Mr. GOWDY, I have a Texas had the most police officers In total, five officers were killed, feeling that Kevin knew anyway when killed. Twenty-one were killed last seven others were wounded. And these he left that courtroom how you felt. year in the line of duty. We also had officers were killed for the sole reason Thank you for sharing that powerful five canines that were killed that that they wore a uniform, that they story. I think it really clearly points to worked with police. wore a badge or a star over their heart, a lot of things: I have here a photograph—or a poster symbolizing protecting us from the do- One, the job is tough and you have of the 21 officers killed in the line of bads. That is why that badge is there got to make those split decisions, and duty in the State of Texas last year; all over their heart. They were willing to they are life and death decisions; races, both sexes, all ages throughout give their life so that we might have Two, that the human side of the po- the State of Texas. Last year, we saw peace, order, and safety; and on that lice officer is not very often recog- probably more than I can remember, day, five of them did. nized; that the connection to their this phenomena of hate and ambush of In total, like I mentioned, 21 officers family—as I said in my opening state- police officers. were killed in Texas last year, the ment, these are people that are fathers, most in any State. I include in the 1915 they are sons, they are sisters, they are b RECORD their full background and the mothers, in some cases they are grand- On July 7, 2016, five Dallas police offi- departments that they worked with. parents. cers were shot and killed as they were Their names are: Officer David Hofer, Sometimes we see a person just wear- protecting a protest demonstration in Patrolman David Ortiz, Trooper Jef- ing a uniform, but there is a human downtown Dallas. frey Nichols, Border Patrol Agent Jose being inside that uniform wearing that What occurred was a sniper who had Barraza, Officer Endy Ekpanya, Ser- badge and carrying that gun to make been preparing, obviously for some geant Stacey Baumgartner, Officer sure that we can get home to our fami- time, was watching this procession go Calvin McCullers, Jr., Sergeant Mi- lies and enjoy our families. by and he opened fire on those police chael Smith, Officer Michael Krol, Offi- I lost a best friend and partner in officers. Other than 9/11, this was the cer Patricio Zamarripa, Officer Brent 1982. It still hurts today. If I can get most deadliest day for police officers in Thompson, Senior Corporal Lorne past the emotional part, I might share the United States. Bradley Ahrens, Officer Marco Zarate, that story a little bit later. Shortly before 9 p.m., a domestic ter- Correctional Officer Mari Johnson, Of- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman rorist—and I am not going to give his ficer Justin Ryan Scherlen, Officer from Texas (Mr. POE). name. His name is not important. The Amir Abdul-Khaliq, Deputy Sheriff Mr. POE of Texas. Thank you, Sher- names of the officers are what is im- Kenneth Maltby, Corporal Robert Ran- iff. portant—parked his black SUV on som, Border Patrol Agent David I appreciate your comments, Lawyer Lamar Street. He put on his body Gomez, Commander Kenneth Starrs, GOWDY; as I call him, his comments. armor. He got his automatic weapon and Detective Benjamin Marconi. I know that the outlaws in Wash- ready to fire, and he started stalking ROLL CALL OF HEROES ington State are glad you are in Con- Dallas police officers. 1. Officer David Stefan Hofer, Euless Police gress and you are not back in Wash- As those Dallas police officers and a Department. End of Watch: March 1, 2016. ington arresting them and putting DART officer—DART is Dallas Area 2. Patrolman David Ortiz, El Paso Police them in the jailhouse where a lot of Rapid Transit officer—marched along Department. End of Watch: March 14, 2016.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00073 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.113 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4300 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 3. Trooper Jeffrey Don Nichols, Texas De- tograph of Chloe taken last week in recognition to Officer Eric Oliver and partment of Public Safety—Texas Highway Austin, Texas, at the Texas Peace Offi- the great loss felt by his family, his Patrol. End of Watch: March 26, 2016. cers Memorial Service event. This is Nassau County Sheriff’s Office col- 4. Agent Jose Daniel Barraza, United her. It was posted by the police chief of leagues, and our entire northeast Flor- States Department of Homeland Security— Customs and Border Protection—United Patton Village, Texas. It expresses the ida community. States Border Patrol, US. End of Watch: families, the humanity of their fathers Tonight I also want to honor in a spe- April 18, 2016. and their mothers, and how we as a cial way two Department of Homeland 5. Officer Endy Nddiobong Ekpanya, people need to understand the con- Security officers who lost their lives in Pearland Police Department. End of Watch: sequences when people murder our fin- service to their country. June 12, 2016. est. First, I rise to honor Special Agent 6. Sergeant Stacey Allen Baumgartner, God bless the thin blue line. Jeremy Scott McGuire. Scott served Patton Village Police Department. End of And that is just the way it is. with the U.S. Immigration and Cus- Watch: June 19, 2016. 7. Officer Calvin Marcus McCullers, Jr., Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank toms Enforcement, assigned to the Na- Southern Methodist University Police De- Judge POE for his words. When he men- tional Security Investigations Division partment. End of Watch: July 5, 2016. tioned police officers don’t do this for at the Homeland Security Investiga- 8. Sergeant Michael Joseph Smith, Dallas the money, I always considered it a tions office in New Orleans, Louisiana. Police Department. End of Watch: July 7, calling. And I think if you talked to On January 25, 2016, Special Agent 2016. any police officer or deputy out on the Scott McGuire lost his life while on 9. Officer Michael Leslie Krol, Dallas Po- street today, I think they would tell special assignment in Miami, Florida. lice Department. End of Watch: July 7, 2016. you that they felt called to serve, and In his final assignment, he was con- 10. Officer Patricio Enrique Zamarripa (Zamarreepa), Dallas Police Department. called to serve in the uniform, and ducting investigations to identify, dis- End of Watch: July 7, 2016. called to put their life on the line and rupt, and dismantle transnational 11. Officer Brent Alan Thompson, Dallas to risk their life for others. criminal enterprises and terrorist orga- Area Rapid Transit Police Department. End I was going to share the story of my nizations that threatened the security of Watch: July 7, 2016. partner, Sam Hicks, who was killed in of the United States. 12. Senior Corporal Lorne Bradley Ahrens 1982. He left behind five sons. He was He is survived by his wife, Suzy, and (Lorn Bradley Aarons), Dallas Police Depart- ambushed and shot in the chest and son, Finn. Special Agent McGuire ment. End of Watch: July 8, 2016. killed instantly. earned an extensive list of awards and 13. Officer Marco Antonio Zarate (Zah-rot- accolades in recognition of his aca- ee), Bellaire Police Department. End of The killer was a man who was al- Watch: July 12, 2016. ready wanted for murder. One of the demic accomplishments, and his inves- 14. Corrections officer Mari Anne Johnson, hardest things I ever did—I was the tigative successes. In fact, post- Texas Department of Criminal Justice. End only homicide detective at the scene humously, Scott received the HIS na- of Watch: July 16, 2016. when they captured him—was to sit in tional award for top illicit drug trade 15. Officer Justin Ryan Scherlen, Amarillo the back seat with this killer, advise investigator of 2016. Police Department. End of Watch: August 4, him of his rights, and get him a glass Special Agent McGuire left behind 2016. of water and something to eat because the greatest legacy a man can live. He 16. Officer Amir Abdul-Khaliq (kah-leek), was truly a man of distinction and a Austin Police Department. End of Watch: he had been on the run for 3 days. I September 4, 2016. spent an hour in the back seat of that man of devotion to not only his work, 17. Deputy Sheriff Kenneth Hubert Maltby, cop car with this killer, knowing that but also to his family and friends, and Eastland County Sheriff’s Office. End of Sam’s five sons no longer had a father. he lives on as a hero. Watch: September 7, 2016. Thank you for your words tonight, Second, I rise to honor fallen Officer 18. Corporal Robert Eugene Ransom, Gregg Judge. Brian Beliso, a U.S. Immigration and County Sheriff’s Office. End of Watch: Sep- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman Customs enforcement officer assigned tember 30, 2016. from Jacksonville, Florida (Mr. RUTH- to the Fugitive Operations Unit at the 19. Agent David Gomez, United States Bor- Enforcement and Removal Operations der Patrol, US. End of Watch: November 16, ERFORD), the second sheriff in the 2016. House. office in San Francisco. Officer Beliso 20. Commander Kenneth Joseph Starrs, Mr. RUTHERFORD. Mr. Speaker, I began his work with ICE in 2007. Very South Texas Specialized Crimes and Nar- am honored to be here this evening early in his career, Brian distinguished cotics Task Force. End of Watch: November with my friend, Sheriff DAVE REICHERT, himself as a charismatic leader and a 16, 2016. and all of my colleagues who stand dedicated employee who always went 21. Detective Benjamin Edward Marconi, with our law enforcement officers, above and beyond in all of his duties. San Antonio Police Department. End of their families, and their communities In his final assignment, Officer Watch: November 20, 2016. for this National Police Week. Beliso conducted field operations to lo- K9 It is a time where we come together cate at-large criminal and fugitive 1. K9 Ogar, Smith County Sheriff’s Office. as a country to recognize the sacrifices aliens who are in violation of our Na- End of Watch: January 19, 2016. our police officers make for us every tion’s immigration laws. He was di- 2. K9 Ledger, La Salle County Sheriff’s Of- time they put on that uniform. rectly responsible for prosecutions of fice. End of Watch: May 29, 2016. 3. K9 Rex, San Juan Police Department. Last week I had the privilege of at- numerous criminal aliens who illegally End of Watch: June 2, 2016. tending the Nassau County Sheriff’s reentered the country following their 4. K9 Bruno, Amarillo Police Department. Office Law Enforcement Memorial deportation. End of Watch: June 12, 2016. Service in Florida, where we recog- On June 8, 2016, Officer Beliso died in 5. K9 Mojo, Arlington Police Department. nized those who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Not only was Brian End of Watch: July 19, 2016. the line of duty. And in a very special greatly respected by his colleagues and Mr. POE of Texas. Mr. Speaker, these way, we honored the life of Officer Eric superiors, he was also known for his were real people. And as Sheriff James Oliver, who was killed in the selfless service to his family and com- REICHERT said earlier, these people line of duty on November 22, 2016. munity. He was a beloved husband and have families. Officer Oliver died doing what he father. He is survived by his wife, Lastly, I would like to mention one loved, protecting and serving his com- Christina, and their three children, other officer whose name I read. His munity. Before he joined the sheriff’s Noah, Sophia, and Bella. name was Sergeant Stacey office, Officer Oliver served our Nation Mr. Speaker, law enforcement is a Baumgartner. He worked at a little in the United States Navy. But his noble profession, and it is a noble pro- bitty police department called Patton most important job, Mr. Speaker, was fession not only because these men and Village in Texas, right outside of Hous- being the loving father to his 6-year- women serve, but because they serve ton, and he was killed when his patrol old daughter, Shelby. with self-sacrifice. Officer Oliver, Offi- car collided with another vehicle while Tonight I commend the many sac- cer Beliso, and Special Agent McGuire he was involved in a hot pursuit. rifices made by each and every law en- laid their lives on the altar of freedom, He is survived by his wife, his son, forcement officer in Florida’s Fourth and we must never forget them and the and his daughter, Chloe. This is a pho- District, but this year we give special many other men and women who have

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:08 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00074 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY7.063 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4301 lost their lives so that we may experi- Nearly eight decades ago, an African- Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee. Mr. ence the safety and freedoms that we American man named Austin Callaway Speaker, I thank the sheriff so much enjoy today. was lynched in the town of LaGrange, for his leadership tonight and through- On behalf of a very grateful nation, Georgia. This terrible crime has been a out the course as we honor law enforce- we thank them for their noble service dark part of the town’s history for a ment and police here and across the and we honor them for their duty and long time. Recently, law enforcement country. sacrifice. officials have taken steps to begin the I rise today to honor the brave men Mr. Speaker, I would be remiss if I reconciliation process. and women of our police forces in the didn’t mention two other officers. I had LaGrange Chief Louis Dekmar Eighth Congressional District and the great honor for 12 years of being partnered with the president of the across the Nation. sheriff of the Jacksonville Sheriff’s Of- county NAACP chapter, Ernest Ward, I have got to tell you that it is chal- fice in Jacksonville, Florida. to facilitate an official apology to the lenging to find the right words to b 1930 Callaway family from the police force thank those who literally lay their During my tenure, I was deeply sad- for failing to investigate the lynching lives on the line for others each and dened to bury two of my officers who nearly 77 years prior. every day—most of the time for people died in the line of duty. They were Offi- I commend Chief Dekmar and Mr. who they have never met. cer Scott Bell, who gave his life in Ward for their actions to begin to heal This past Monday, I had the incred- service in 2007, and Officer Christopher this old wound. I am proud to represent ible privilege of joining the Jackson Kane in 2008. this community that has engaged in Police Department and the Madison I say again, on behalf of a very grate- the hard work of reconciliation. County Sheriff’s Office at a memorial ful nation, we thank them for their Police officers like Chief Dekmar do service in Jackson, Tennessee. I was noble service, and we honor them for so much more than enforce the law. moved to see not just the active and re- their duty and sacrifice. They work actively every single day to tired officers there but also the family Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank bring the communities they serve to- members of those who died in the line the sheriff for being here tonight hon- gether. I am so proud that there are of duty. oring those who fell in his community such great examples of law enforce- During the ceremony, there was a and under his command. I thank him ment in the Third District of Georgia. wreath for all those who have lost their for his 40 years with the Jacksonville Law enforcement officers do more lives in the line of duty in the Jackson Sheriff’s Office. I am proud to serve than just keep us safe. They help our and Madison County area. The names with him in Congress. We need more communities, they show love and com- of those officers, sheriff’s deputies, and sheriffs in Congress, by the way. passion, they bring us together. We law enforcement officials who laid Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman owe them a debt of gratitude. I am their lives on the line, going back to from Georgia (Mr. FERGUSON). proud that there are such brave men the 1800s, were read. For some of those Mr. FERGUSON. Mr. Speaker, I and women willing to serve in all of who died many years ago, there were would first like to thank the gen- our communities and hometowns. I no family members there. There were tleman from Washington for organizing want to extend my deep gratitude for family members for those who died this event for us to thank the brave the hard work of these brave men and going back 60 and 70 years ago in the men and women who keep our commu- women and offer a special thanks and line of duty. nity safe day in and day out. Like him, special prayer to their families. Each of those family members were I have the honor and privilege of serv- Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield given a rose that they would place in a ing with Sheriff RUTHERFORD and Chief to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. wreath—a memorial for all those who DEMINGS. It is quite an honor to be DESJARLAIS). have died in the line of duty. It was with both of them in the 115th Con- Mr. DESJARLAIS. Mr. Speaker, I rise very moving to see those family mem- gress. today in honor of National Police Week bers and, obviously, to hear the names The men and women of law enforce- and the courageous law enforcement of those people who have given their ment are moms and dads, sons and daughters, siblings and friends to the officers who protect the great State of lives in the line of duty. The ceremony reminded me of the very people who they serve. We ask Tennessee. these brave men and women to uphold This week, we have thousands of po- daily sacrifices that our law enforce- the law, but so often this seemingly lice from across the country here in ment make in order to protect and straightforward mandate sends them Washington, D.C., to honor the valiant serve their communities, their State, into the most difficult and tragic situa- men and women in blue. and their country. These men and tions that our society faces: terrible Among the 145 heroes who lost their women have families, hobbies, and accidents, domestic disputes, and the lives in the line of duty in 2016, six hail places of worship. They are heroes liv- strife that threatens the hearts of our from the Volunteer State. I would like ing among us who deserve our praise towns and communities. Their bravery to recognize Special Agent Frazier each and every day. and courage is unimaginable to some- with the Tennessee Bureau of Inves- During my time as the United States one like me. The complexity of their tigation, Sergeant Allred with the Liv- Attorney for the Western District of jobs and the tolls that it takes on their ingston Police Department, Deputy Tennessee, I worked closely with our lives is often underestimated. Sheriff Larnerd with the Jackson police departments and law enforce- Having a safe community offers our County Sheriff’s Office, Officer Moats ment agencies to tackle violent crime. citizens more than just peace of mind. with the Maryville Police Department, Our men and women in law enforce- It offers them a place to live, grow Sergeant Smith with the Memphis Po- ment were on the front lines of some of their businesses, provide a living for lice Department, and Deputy Sheriff the most incredibly dangerous and sen- their family, and to be not only eco- Sturgill with the Humphrey County sitive situations. I feel fortunate to nomically secure but socially secure. Police Department. I stand today to have seen how their tireless work saves Law enforcement officers play a very recognize their service and extreme lives and changes communities for the critical role in community develop- sacrifice. better. ment. Tennessee law enforcement officers I also want to take time to thank Each generation of our law enforce- often risk their own lives to protect those in the United States Capitol Po- ment community evolves as society the safety of others. I honor and re- lice here in Washington, D.C. They are changes and their technology and spect these brave men and women, and some of the finest, sharpest men and training improve. This allows them to I pray for them and their families. women in the country. We can rest police our communities more respon- Mr. Speaker, during National Police easier knowing they are watching sibly, effectively, and sometimes even Week, and throughout the year, let us closely over our Nation’s capital and to right wrongs of the past generation. all remember to ‘‘Back the Badge.’’ protecting our democracy. I want to highlight one specific ex- Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield This is a pivotal time for our coun- ample in my district, Georgia’s Third to the gentleman from Tennessee (Mr. try. We must not forget the signifi- District. KUSTOFF). cance of maintaining law and order. At

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:08 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00075 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.116 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4302 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 a time when it seems so many in our officers the support and treatment I believe we have a responsibility to society have grown distrustful and dis- they need to continue to protect them- our first responders. That is why I am respectful of law enforcement, the selves and our communities. very proud to cosponsor H.R. 2228, the overwhelming majority of the people in Since 2010, officers in Indianapolis Law Enforcement Mental Health and the country respect our law enforce- have been able to receive counseling Wellness Act of 2017, with my good ment. They need to know that they and referrals to doctors and clinicians friend SUSAN BROOKS from Indiana. The have our support now more than ever. through unique, in-house programs bill would direct the Departments of Too often, their courage and selfless staffed by fellow trained officers. Justice, Defense, and Veterans Affairs, deeds go unnoticed and To help police departments develop as you have heard, to share best prac- unacknowledged. Whether it is bring- and implement similar programs, I tices that can help law enforcement of- ing violent criminals to justice, rush- have introduced, along with my good ficers in tragic situations. ing to the scene of a terrible incident, friend, a new Member of Congress from I am so proud to share this legisla- or keeping constant watch over our Florida, VAL DEMINGS, the former po- tion with my good friend and urge schools and neighborhoods, our police lice chief of Orlando, H.R. 2228, the Law other colleagues within Congress to officers serve with such distinction. We Enforcement Mental Health and join us to make this vision a reality. must not take their service and steady Wellness Act. Mr. Speaker, we must do everything we presence for granted. This bill will improve the sharing of can to protect the men and women who I have never been more appreciative Federal best practices by the Depart- keep our cities, our towns, and our of law enforcement for all that they do ment of Justice, the Department of De- communities safe. to keep us safe. National Police Week fense, and the VA with local police de- Again, I thank the sheriff so much is a solemn time as we remember those partments. It will make grants avail- for his service, and I thank the gen- we have lost. We must also celebrate able to initiate peer-mentoring pilot tleman for helping us to honor the men our active police officers and law en- programs and develop training for men- and women who are so deserving of this forcement who will continue to serve tal health providers specific to law en- honor. our country for future generations. forcement, study the effectiveness of Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I thank I thank the sheriff for allowing me to crisis hotlines, and get officers mental the chief. It is an honor to serve with speak this evening on behalf of all health checkups. the gentlewoman. I know the gentle- those in law enforcement. We truly ap- If our police officers are healthy, our woman has a special quality about her preciate their service. communities will be even safer. We owe now that I heard her husband was a Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield it to all of our heroes in law enforce- sheriff. The gentlewoman is all thumbs to the gentlewoman from Indiana (Mrs. ment across the country to protect up on my team, and I thank her for her BROOKS). their mental health and well-being, and sincere, thoughtful comments. Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. Mr. Speak- I urge passage of this legislation. Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman er, I rise today to recognize National Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, may I from Arizona (Mr. O’HALLERAN) who is Police Week. It is also Mental Health inquire how much time is remaining? a former Chicago police officer. Awareness Month. I want to thank my The SPEAKER pro tempore (Mr. Mr. O’HALLERAN. Mr. Speaker, I colleague, whom we affectionately call TAYLOR). The gentleman from Wash- want to thank the gentleman from sheriff, who served his great State for ington has 5 minutes remaining. Washington and the sheriff. 33 years. Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield Mr. Speaker, I rise today to pay trib- I want to express my profound grati- to the gentlewoman from Florida (Mrs. ute to the men and women who have tude to the men and women in uniform DEMINGS), the former police chief of Or- paid the ultimate sacrifice to protect and their families who serve and sac- lando. our communities. rifice so much to protect our safety. In 2016, two brave Arizona officers I think we also need to talk about a b 1945 died as they responded to calls: David way that we can repay these men and Mrs. DEMINGS. Mr. Speaker, one of Van Glasser, Phoenix Police Depart- women for their sacrifice by making my greatest honors was serving as a ment; and Darrin Reed, Show Low Po- mental health services more available police officer in Orlando for 27 years. lice Department, which is in my dis- to our law enforcement officers so that My husband is a sheriff in Orange trict. Both of those men left behind they have the resources to handle so County, and he has been serving for 35 family and loved ones. many difficult on-the-job situations years in law enforcement. But today I As a former police officer and homi- that they deal with every single day. am here to talk about how we can bet- cide investigator, National Police Police officers are under constant at- ter take care of our law enforcement Week has a special meaning to me. I tack, often on the job, caught literally officers as they continue to take care have lost friends, partners, brothers, in the crossfire of violent domestic vio- of us. and sisters in the line of duty. I have lence disputes; violent crime; finding Our law enforcement officers are grieved with their families during the and recovering bodies of murder vic- called to some of the most horrific sit- most difficult times, and I have experi- tims, some of whom are young chil- uations and run into harm’s way to enced firsthand the real sacrifices they dren; targets for lone wolf shootings protect us and our families every day. make. and attacks; injecting Narcan, the Almost a year ago, officers responded Each of the 135 officers from across overdose reversal drug, into people who to the Pulse nightclub shooting, known the country who died in the line of have overdosed on heroin, trying to now as the site of the deadliest mass duty in 2016 worked to keep our neigh- save them. shooting in our Nation’s history: 49 borhoods safe. While we can never Think about all of the different persons lost their lives that night and repay the debts we owe them and their things that the men and women in uni- more were severely injured. families, we will forever remember form have to do day in and day out. Imagine the scene as the officers re- their service. For most people, just one of these expe- sponded. One officer said one thing he As we look to the future, it is impor- riences would be enough to cause trau- will never forget is hearing the sound tant to highlight the work being done ma. But our police officers face these of the cellphones ringing as loved ones in cities and towns across the country and other unthinkable situations daily, called the victims, but, of course, the to not only better protect our families, sometimes leading to significant men- victims could not answer. but also the lives of our law enforce- tal health challenges for officers like During the most dangerous and most ment officers. In Arizona, successful suicidal thoughts, anxiety, post-trau- tragic of circumstances, our law en- community policing programs in Flag- matic stress disorder, and depression. forcement officers may appear super- staff, Phoenix, and countless other cit- Fortunately, we have many law en- human, but they are only human, and ies and towns have improved relation- forcement groups, including the Indi- responding to scenes like this—or any ships. anapolis Metropolitan Police Depart- other horrific scene—no one can really I am proud to join my colleagues ment and the Indiana Fraternal Order prepare for that. It is just one example from both sides of the aisle on the of Police, who are working to offer our of what our officers face. House Law Enforcement Caucus. I look

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00076 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.118 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4303 forward to continuing the bipartisan portation and our utility systems that the Blue Collar Caucus. I have spoken work we are doing to identify and solve most of us only tend to notice when on this House floor about the need for the challenges facing our law enforce- they are broken. our country’s leaders to pay attention ment community. Well, Mr. Speaker, there is a lot of again to our blue-collar workers and Mr. REICHERT. Mr. Speaker, I yield broken infrastructure in our country our blue-collar economy. back the balance of my time. to notice lately. In fact, even President I am so happy that, while tonight f Donald Trump has recognized that the might be specifically about infrastruc- roads, bridges, and all the other ture and that sliver of the overall blue- ALLEGED RUSSIAN COLLUSION underpinnings that make our modern collar economy, I am joined in this ef- (Ms. JACKSON LEE asked and was world possible are crumbling and need fort with my cofounder, the co-chair- given permission to address the House urgent attention. man of this caucus, MARC VEASEY of for 1 minute.) So the President has vowed repeat- Texas. He will be speaking in a mo- Ms. JACKSON LEE. Mr. Speaker, I edly, both as a candidate and as Presi- ment, as well as a few other members will continue to join my colleagues in dent, to invest at least $1 trillion in of our caucus, about the importance of honoring our law enforcement officers our infrastructure system. That was a reinvesting in our Nation’s infrastruc- across America, particularly in my key promise of his campaign and crit- ture and why that is critical to our home State, and look forward to pro- ical to his appeal to working class economy. viding that tribute in days to come. I Americans, including in my home Mr. Speaker, if we really want to put thank my colleague, the sheriff, for his State of Pennsylvania. Americans back to work and put them work. But that promise is, so far, as broken back to work not in low-paid jobs but I have come to the floor today, how- as our Nation’s infrastructure. Instead, in good-paying jobs—family-sustaining ever, to again comment on the appoint- 4 months into his administration, this jobs—the way to do it is to reinvest in ment of a special counsel to inves- President is laying the groundwork to our Nation’s infrastructure. I have tigate the Russian collusion, alleged shortchange American workers and many other things to say on this topic Russian collusion of the President’s manufacturers. Mr. President, it is that I will be saying throughout the campaign operatives and the President most disappointing. next hour or so. as relates to the 2016 election. I stood Monday morning at Philadel- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman Director Mueller is a well respected phia International Airport. I stood from Texas (Mr. VEASEY), the co-chair- law enforcement leader. I look forward with the former Governor of our State, man of our Blue Collar Caucus. He is to his quick response. But I believe it Ed Rendell, who is part of a bipartisan someone who has been a real leader on is important for this Congress, and I group called Building America’s Fu- this issue and feels just as passionately ture. I stood with both Democratic and ask Speaker RYAN to ensure, that the about it as I do. committees of jurisdiction—Oversight Republican Members of this body who Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I want to and Government Reform, House Judici- happen to represent the greater Phila- thank the gentleman from the great ary Committee, and House Intelligence delphia area. I also stood with Senator State of Pennsylvania for helping Committee—do their work as well. COONS of Delaware, who, himself, lives cofound the Blue Collar Caucus and That work would include hearings on not too far from the Philadelphia just doing a tremendous job. As you the issues before us and an impeach- International Airport. We used that know, the hardworking men and ment inquiry to determine the facts. setting to talk about the importance of women of Pennsylvania, and particu- I believe that we can do this to- Infrastructure Week and reinvesting in larly the Philadelphia area, have been gether, Mr. Speaker, not as Repub- our Nation’s infrastructure today and so responsible for many of the things licans and Democrats, but as Ameri- for tomorrow. that have really made our country cans. The truth must be found, and I mentioned in those remarks somewhat it is, many of the great public America will be better for it. thing that I am going to mention here works, many of the amazing museums, tonight: 100 years ago, there was no and many of the amazing things, f doubt that the United States of Amer- bridges, just things like that that peo- INFRASTRUCTURE WEEK ica was the leader in the world when it ple take for granted that there was comes to infrastructure. Our roads, our someone that built those things, there The SPEAKER pro tempore. Under bridges, our waterway systems, our was someone that toiled possibly in the the Speaker’s announced policy of Jan- mass transit, and our gas lines were heat and in the snow, but they were uary 3, 2017, the gentleman from Penn- rated number one. Today, if you seek able to bring home a good wage doing sylvania (Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE) is out the report of the American Society it. They were able to take care of their recognized for 60 minutes as the des- of Civil Engineers—these are not families. They were able to send their ignee of the minority leader. Democrats; they are not Republicans; kids to college. GENERAL LEAVE they are really nonpartisan; they are I love when the gentleman talks Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- civil engineers—we are rated a D-plus. about his family and the sacrifices that vania. Mr. Speaker, I ask unanimous The International Civil Engineers do the gentleman’s parents made working consent that all Members have 5 legis- not rate the United States of America in a blue-collar job that ultimately lative days to revise and extend their in the top 20 when it comes to infra- helped him go to one of the most pres- remarks and include any extraneous structure. That should bother all of us, tigious universities—Notre Dame. So I materials on the subject of my Special whether you are Democrat or Repub- just really appreciate the fact that the Order. lican or Independent or nonpolitical. gentleman appreciates the hard- The SPEAKER pro tempore. Is there I have to say, as someone who be- working men and women that really objection to the request of the gen- lieves in this country and believes that make this country great. tleman from Pennsylvania? we should always strive to be number We need to do more for them. One of There was no objection. one, not even being in the top 20 both- the ways that we can do more for them Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- ers me, and it is simply not good is to pass an infrastructure bill. I don’t vania. Mr. Speaker, this is Infrastruc- enough. It is unwise economic policy. think that there is any doubt about ture Week in the United States, and Part of why the 20th century became that. while Hallmark may not quite yet be known as the American Century is be- We know that this is Infrastructure making cards to observe Infrastructure cause we were the number one world Week. With roughly $700 billion a year Week, I hope those of us here in Con- leader when it came to our infrastruc- that is being invested at the local, gress can take a moment to recognize ture. How are we supposed to compete State, and Federal level, infrastructure that this is a unique opportunity to today and in the future if we are not is vitally important to our economy. talk about the importance of the state even in the top 10 or the top 20? We have to have good infrastructure to of our Nation’s infrastructure. Mr. Speaker, for the needs of our in- meet the basic needs of the American This is a time, as I was mentioning, frastructure and for a myriad of other people. That may sound like quite a bit really to focus on all modes of trans- issues related to this, I have cofounded of money, but we can’t spend enough

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00077 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.119 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4304 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 money to repair and replace our crum- projects anyway, and the only private The whole vital topic of investing in bling roads, bridges, and other critical investment it would encourage is for a national infrastructure plan and in- infrastructure. projects that contain a funding stream vesting in those who will help to mod- I listened to ELIZABETH ESTY last such as toll roads. ernize America translates into good night, one of our colleagues from Con- I have to say, if toll roads are the jobs, as Congressman VEASEY has necticut, talk about the dangers that only choice that people have, they will talked about, and progress for America are involved in not investing in infra- maybe take them. But I know that a that Congressman BOYLE has talked structure and some of the deaths that bipartisan group of Texans, and I saw about. tragically have occurred on American this especially when I was in the State When we think about infrastructure, roads because of collapsing bridges and legislature before I came to Congress, some people only think about roads things like that. That is not what we they are really upset with toll roads. and bridges, and we certainly need at- want. They feel we have too many of them, tention to those across our country. So We need for the American taxpayer and they want to see the infrastructure many places throughout our Nation are to have confidence that the roads that investment that we need in this coun- in desperate need of repair. Frankly, they are driving on and that the air- try to get our roads back up to par and the street I live on, there is a big sink- ports that they are using are up to to help relieve congestion. hole at the end of the street. date, that we have the best ports, that Encouraging private investment in Mr. Speaker, 17 percent of the roads we have the best transit systems in infrastructure is not necessarily a bad in Ohio, my home State, are in poor this country, and that we have the idea, but it requires the proper over- condition, according to the American money to keep those things world-class sight and the selection of the right Society of Civil Engineers. They esti- systems and efficient systems in our kinds of projects. I have to tell you, mate that the average Ohio driver pays country. They have to be safe. there is a bipartisan group that be- an extra $475 a year from driving on lieves in that. Both the Obama admin- roads in need of repair. Look no further b 2000 istration under Secretary Foxx and the than me. I had to pay $500 for a whole According to the American Society Bush Transportation Secretary, Mary front end because of hitting a big pot- of Civil Engineers, one out of every five Peters, they both agree that public-pri- hole driving at home at night. So we miles of highway pavement in our Na- vate partnerships are only able to ad- know how much it costs. tion is in poor condition. That is an es- dress a small segment of what is need- Let me urge President Trump and timated 56,000 of the Nation’s bridges ed. the administration not to limit their that are structurally deficient. Think Without careful attention, we risk thinking on an infrastructure bill. In- about the truck driver who drives wasting taxpayer funds by giving big frastructure should be about our roads tax breaks to companies on the backs every day, think about the person who and bridges for sure, but it should go of hardworking American families. makes their living on the road. Think far beyond that for modernizing the about how many families want their Mr. Speaker, I am going to talk some more later about job creation and Nation. loved ones to travel on safe roads. As the ranking member on the about Davis-Bacon and about some Think about all of the families who de- Appropriations Subcommittee for En- other things that need to be addressed, pend on their loved ones to make a liv- ergy and Water Development, I take but I want to be sure that we hear from ing on those roads. That is how they very seriously America’s responsibility another one of our colleagues and put food on the table at the end of the to modernize the country for this new friends from the Rust Belt, Ms. MARCY week, at the end of every 2 weeks, at century. KAPTUR who is here. So I am going to the end of the month, however they get Our energy grid desperately needs an turn it back over to you so you can in- their check. They need to be safe. update, and power outages across this troduce her. When she talks about Those families need to know that those country attest to that. Our waterways what is going on in the heartland and hardworking men and women who in Ohio, she works directly with those need help, too. And our drinking water work on those roads every day and use men and women who work in manufac- infrastructure, just in Ohio it is esti- them to help fuel American turing and who work in construction. I mated will cost $12.2 billion over the exceptionalism, they need to know bet you she has some things that we next 20 years. that those roads are safe. As hard as it is to fathom, and I am need to hear about dealing with infra- Some estimates say that modernizing structure and how it can help our sure the President hasn’t had a chance our infrastructure to meet our needs is States and help our country. to read the fine print on this, but the going to require an additional $5 tril- Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- President’s budget office proposed to lion in Federal spending over the next vania. Mr. Speaker, I thank the gen- zero out the Great Lakes Restoration decade. Federal investment in infra- tleman. As my colleague was just men- Initiative which is so vital to fresh structure is an economic boost that tioning, someone who has really been a drinking water in our vast region. The can also create good-paying jobs for champion on these issues for decades, President has said he wants to help the blue-collar workers. someone who intellectually gets it, but people in Flint, Michigan. He cam- I have to tell you, many were encour- also speaks on these issues not just paigned there several times. But it is aged, a lot of people that I know— with her head but with her heart, and not an either/or. It is both/and. You Democrats, Republicans, Independ- now as the climate in our country has, have to have funding in the Great ents—they were very encouraged when I think, evolved on some of these Lakes Restoration Initiative to take the Trump administration floated the issues, some people are recognizing care of the water issues confronting idea of a $1 trillion infrastructure plan. that what she was talking about for the Great Lakes where algal blooms But instead of presenting a detailed in- quite a while has been proven to be cor- get larger and larger every year due to frastructure plan that puts Americans rect. phosphorus and nitrogen runoff. back to work, the Trump administra- Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentle- Our waterways, our drinking water, tion has basically offered a plan that woman from Ohio (Ms. KAPTUR) who I are vital components of our national lacks details. It doesn’t really go into am honored to serve with. infrastructure. Over 11 million people how we are going to get this done. Ms. KAPTUR. Mr. Speaker, I thank just on Lake Erie alone, the lake that The reports that I have seen say that Congressman BOYLE and Congressman I represent, need that fresh water. The the Trump plan, if you want to call it VEASEY for their leadership and the systems are very old. Some estimate in a plan, like I said, contains very few new energy and the innovative ideas the cities, cities are losing 30 percent details. It contains tax incentives for that they bring here from their con- or more of the water distribution un- private industries that make up as stituency on behalf of our country. It derground because of aging pipelines. much as 80 percent of the cost of the is a privilege to join you tonight and We truly need to look both above the bill. talk about the infrastructure of our ground and underneath it. Let me tell you two reasons why that country, a major infrastructure bill, Through many of the counties that I is bad. It would simply enrich compa- and it is certainly appropriate during represent, there are old septic systems nies that would have built their this infrastructure week. in place, and 40 percent or more of

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00078 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.121 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4305 them are leaking. They contribute to Mr. NORCROSS. Mr. Speaker, I ap- Civil Engineers brief us a few weeks some of the problems that we are hav- preciate that kind introduction. It was ago to the Building Trades Caucus on ing in our fresh water systems. These a remarkable time sitting at the air- the report card that they give each and communities need a helping hand and port right there on the Delaware River every year: aviation, a D; bridges, a C- extra financing to help put their waste- and understanding how much we de- plus; ports, a C-plus; energy, a D; tran- water systems into compliance. pend on safe, secure travel in those air- sit, a D. The overall report card was a I have also proposed a bill for a 21st ports around the country. D. century civilian conservation corps for But to both MARC and BRENDAN, If I had come home with a D on my needed investments in our States and thank you for the Blue Collar Caucus report card, I know what my parents national parks and forests. Ohio and and bringing to light many of the would have done to us. But somehow Michigan alone need to plant 20 million issues that at times we as a nation having the D on the report card for the trees to replace those that have been might have forgotten, quite frankly, very infrastructure here in the United damaged by invasive species. those who work with their hands, those States has been acceptable. I wanted to also mention, I represent, who are getting up each and every Well, it is not. We are deferring this and I know Congressman BOYLE and morning and going to work, having a problem to the next generation when Congressman VEASEY, we represent job, taking care of their family, and I we owe them a responsibility of turn- urban communities, and many of those think focusing on that is so important. ing over our world to them in a little communities have housing that is 100 I am myself involved with the Build- bit better shape, not worse shape. years old. Some a little more, some a ing Trades Caucus, and we are talking So when we look at that investment little less. Imagine if infrastructure about something that is near and dear in roads, rails, ports, airports, it does could include weatherization so we to everybody’s heart, and it is called something more than just to fix the could place new roofs on millions of infrastructure. very problems that we look at each and homes across this country. We could In this day and age when people are every day. It is about a job. What bet- train people how to do this. We could wondering about what is going on in ter way to put America back to work help bring up the younger generation. the country, I want to talk about the than fixing our own infrastructure. No- Also windows and insulation. If we ‘‘t’’ word. No, it is not Donald Trump; body does it better than the building look at the condition of America’s it is a trillion dollars, and that is the trades who have the training programs housing stock, particularly following number that people have been talking second to none and does not use one the collapse of 2008, if we look at sav- about that we need for infrastructure. dime of public investment. All funded ing Americans money that they cur- Infrastructure means many things to privately. Fifteen different trades com- rently spend on wasting energy because many different people. If you are in ing together to fix our infrastructure. they can’t afford to put on a new roof, Flint, Michigan, it is about having In addition to that, they do some- windows, or insulate their homes, we clean water. The pipes need to be re- thing that is really special. We all could help millions of Americans. As placed. We have a growing infrastruc- know the figure when it comes to those we help to improve America’s infra- ture that is many years old. who put the uniform on to help protect structure, I really believe housing has When we think back about one of the our country is less than 1 percent. We an important role to play in this re- major components of infrastructure in have so many of those men and women gard, especially with energy conserva- this country, during the Eisenhower who are coming home today, and there tion. is a program that the Building Trades Honestly, as I close my remarks to- administration, it was building the Caucus have put together called Hel- night, and I thank Congressman BOYLE interstate system, from north to south, mets to Hardhats. Taking those who and Congressman VEASEY for their from east to west, connecting coasts, leadership, Mr. Speaker, it is not only connecting cities, connecting States. want to come home and start a career, rewarding to work with them, it is fun, And that is something that has been so took their helmet off and go right into too. important to us. But apparently not an apprenticeship program, put the Mr. Speaker, Americans have been important enough to keep and main- hardhat on. What better way to say to waiting for us and the Federal Govern- tain. those veterans they are welcome home ment to really give them a helping I am very familiar with the systems than to give them a job? But not just a hand up. I know working together on a that we have. I went to the other 4- job, a career. bipartisan basis, we can produce an in- year school; it was called an appren- So as we continue to have the discus- frastructure bill that the country has ticeship program, an electrical appren- sions day-to-day, the ‘‘t’’ word is about been waiting for, as Congressman ticeship that I spent 4 years in. After trillion dollars. It is about putting BOYLE says, for decades. I know that graduating, I worked up and down the back into our country the investment our mayors, our county commissioners, Delaware River at refineries, on that it is due. and our Governors across the country bridges, and on our infrastructure. We Mr. Speaker, I again want to thank would work hand in hand with us, and know how important it is. my colleagues for coming here today to I think Americans from coast to coast But in Congress, because of the Blue make sure that we remember those would applaud what we are able to do Collar Caucus and many others, we men and women who don’t necessarily here in order to help our country re- need to remember that the dignity of a put on a suit and tie but have the dig- build itself in this new century. job is so important. We have 211 attor- nity of going to work each day as blue- Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- neys here in Congress, but there is only collar workers, and we are damn proud vania. Mr. Speaker, I thank Congress- one electrician. There is only one car- of it. woman KAPTUR. penter. There is only one ironworker, Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- I mentioned, Mr. Speaker, at the and there is only one painter. Diversity vania. I should have mentioned when I very beginning of my remarks that we comes in many shapes and sizes, and was introducing Mr. NORCROSS that he kicked off infrastructure week on Mon- our Founding Fathers understood how is the founder and the chairman of the day morning at an event at Philadel- important that was. They were farm- Building Trades Caucus. When he phia International Airport. One of ers, printers, attorneys, doctors, all talked about that one electrician, he those Members of Congress who joined coming together and bringing those ex- was talking about himself. I under- me for that event is the gentleman periences into this very House, this stand from some of his former elec- from New Jersey (Mr. NORCROSS), very floor, to remember why we are trician buddies that he was a top-rated someone who practices what he here. electrician. He is someone who has lit- preaches when it comes to the issues Anybody who drove on a road to get erally walked the walk. that most concern the Blue Collar Cau- here today understands what infra- It now gives me a real pleasure to in- cus, and someone who can really speak structure means. troduce someone who has represented about infrastructure from many dif- Chicago and the Chicagoland area for a ferent perspectives. b 2015 number of years, someone who also I yield to the gentleman from New But somehow we haven’t paid atten- gets it when it comes to the issues that Jersey (Mr. NORCROSS). tion. We had the American Society of most concern the Blue Collar Caucus,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 06:08 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00079 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.123 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4306 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 and then specifically what we are ad- ten—the fact that we need to do this this—that we need to do our work here dressing tonight in the Special Order, infrastructure bill. and we need to pass an infrastructure the need to reinvest in our Nation’s in- Focusing on transportation, we all bill, including a big transportation frastructure and put people back to know we need our transportation infra- component to that. work. structure to get anywhere we are We are going to continue to fight for Mr. Speaker, I yield to the gentleman going. You get up in the morning, you that. No matter what else is going on from Illinois (Mr. LIPINSKI). take your kids to school, you go to here, no matter what else you hear Mr. LIPINSKI. Mr. Speaker, I want work, you are going to the store, you people talking about, we are here to to say, first of all, it is an honor to fol- are going to church on Sunday, any- say we need to do this. The American low Mr. NORCROSS. As Mr. BOYLE said, where you go, you need the transpor- people know we need to do this. It one of the very few in this body who is tation infrastructure. If it wasn’t helps all Americans, but especially the an actual member of the building and there, you couldn’t get there. blue-collar Americans, the ones who construction trades. I didn’t intend to So we are talking not just about have been suffering for many years in talk about this originally, but I just roads and bridges, we are talking about our country. want to say it is very important that public transit. Public transit systems One other thing. President Trump all of us in this Nation give more re- in many of our big cities are crum- talks about buy American. I am happy spect to the building and construction bling. We know that in Chicago. We that he came out last month and said trades, and all the men and women in know all the problems right now from the administration is going to look at the trades who have built this Nation. that crumbling infrastructure. Some- how we can improve our buy American These are great jobs that provide a thing we oftentimes don’t think about law so that when the Federal Govern- good living for families, and they are is that public transit, how critical it is, ment buys things, they are going to building our Nation. We need to en- how important it is. So let’s remember buy American-made products. courage more young people to go into all of that. Let’s remember the side- But I have to say, if we want to do the building and construction trades. walks, the bike and pedestrian paths, something immediately, I have a bill I used to teach college. I was a col- everything that gets people to where that I introduced, the Buy American lege professor, but I know we need to they need to go. Improvement Act, which closes a lot of make sure that young people today un- Everybody knows the problems that the loopholes that exist right now in derstand what a great life they can we face. Everyone knows in their daily our domestic content, buy American have, what great jobs these are in the lives what we need to do, how much laws. It extends buy American laws, trades. transportation infrastructure needs domestic content laws to Federal I want to thank Mr. NORCROSS for the work. Chicago is oftentimes labeled the spending that it is not applied to right work that he has done helping to build most congested city in America. If it is now. For example, Drinking Water this Nation and now working here in not number one, it is in the top three. State Revolving Fund for drinking Congress. We know it, but people all across the water. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank Mr. country know it. We need to do this It is important that we use American BOYLE and Mr. VEASEY for their work work. If we do this work, first of all, we tax dollars to put Americans to work. on the Blue Collar Caucus. There are a are putting people to work imme- It is great that the administration is lot of people in this country who think diately building the roads, bridges, re- looking at what can be done; but I have Washington has forgotten them, many pairing the infrastructure, the rails. to say, this bill, the Buy American Im- blue-collar men and women who turned We also need to talk about the locks provement Act, we can get this done, out in the election and I think were and dams on our inland waterways, get this passed, get this into law. When motivated in many ways by that feel- things that many of us never see be- we pass that infrastructure bill, we will ing that they have been forgotten. cause we just pass over our waterways make sure Americans are being put to Many of these are the blue-collar men on the road, on bridges, and don’t even work with American taxpayer dollars. and women who work so hard every see the vital waterways that also serve Mr. Speaker, I want to again thank day. important roles in our country. And the Blue Collar Caucus and Mr. BOYLE We are here tonight to say we have the ports. We need to invest in all of and Mr. VEASEY for all the work that not forgotten. We understand how im- these. they are doing, and the most important portant you are to our Nation and the We put people to work immediately. thing is for the American people. The work that you do, and especially to- But also what is important, besides the American people need to know that we night to talk about how important the fact it helps us get around, helps us get are here fighting for them, especially work you do building and repairing our to wherever we are going every day, is those blue-collar workers who think infrastructure is to all of us. it also makes our economy more effi- they have been forgotten. There is a lot of infrastructure we cient. It makes American business You have not been forgotten. have in this Nation that needs to be more efficient. If we have an efficient Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- fixed, to be built. Ms. KAPTUR talked transportation system in our country, vania. Mr. Speaker, I want to thank about many of these different areas. American business is more efficient. Mr. LIPINSKI for his words, and I appre- One of them, of course, is in drinking And that is why so many of them, in- ciate his membership in the Blue Col- water and sewers. So much of it was cluding the U.S. Chamber of Com- lar Caucus. built right after either the early part merce, have been on this for a number In going through this entire discus- of the 20th century or after World War of years, that we need to improve our sion on infrastructure, because there II, and now it is deteriorating. I hear transportation system so American are so many things that we could talk the stories all the time from some of business can thrive. And if American about as part of this, certainly I would my municipalities back home, saying business thrives, more Americans get encourage those interested in this that they are afraid that the pipes are hired by businesses. Not just building topic to read the report of the Amer- completely gone, the water right now the transportation infrastructure, not ican Society of Civil Engineers. It is an is just running through the hole that just working on it, but all businesses in overwhelming case for why we need at was left from the pipes. There is so America are more efficient, can hire least a $1 trillion infrastructure plan much infrastructure we need to build. more people. It makes our economy really making up for decades upon dec- I want to focus especially tonight on run. ades of underinvestment in our Na- transportation. I sit on the Transpor- This is something critical. With ev- tion’s infrastructure. We could cer- tation and Infrastructure Committee. erything else that is going on right tainly talk about that and talk about President Trump promised that he now—and we know what that is, and we many different aspects of it. would have a $1 trillion bill to fund in- never know what is coming day-to- In the few minutes that we have re- frastructure. I think it is critical that, day—all these other things are impor- maining, I want to talk about its over- in these days where we have so many tant that we are talking about and all effect on our country. I am not other things that we are focused on, we that we are looking at. But we cannot talking about dollars and cents. I am don’t forget—and we have not forgot- forget—and the American people know not talking about in a tangible way. I

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00080 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.125 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE H4307 mean something that is not tangible, frastructure bill. I wanted to speak grow with greater infrastructure in- that you can’t exactly put your fingers about the importance of making sure vestment pay more than typical wages on; and that is the spirit of America. that those are high-paying jobs and for high school graduates. Engineering Mr. Speaker, something that Ameri- why the Davis-Bacon Act is linked to and management jobs, which usually cans have always been known for is our that, but knowing that my co-chair- require higher levels of education, also eternal optimism. So much so that if man will speak about this issue, I am offer good opportunities. However, even you are friends with folks in Europe happy to turn that over to him now to construction and transportation jobs and in other places, they would always speak about that issue and others that associated with infrastructure projects gently make fun of Americans for are affected by this. provide higher earnings than an aver- being so optimistic, for our undeniable, As it may be my last time speaking age job for high school graduates. The unending belief in the power of the fu- on this, I thank my colleagues for their Blue Collar Caucus advocates not only ture; that tomorrow will always be bet- passion on this issue. I appeal to the more jobs but, again, better quality ter than today. White House, to President Trump spe- jobs. b 2030 cifically: Please work with us on this I used to hear people talk around the issue. It is, I believe, the single best dinner table or the domino table or the Yet we know, Mr. Speaker, in recent way we could unite Democrats and Re- card table when I was growing up. Peo- times too few Americans are feeling publicans in the House and the Senate. ple wanted to know where the good optimistic about our country’s future. We can get this done. It is something jobs were, how can you get on at a good All the polls are showing that. There that must get done. It would put mil- has been a pretty dramatic turn in just job. That is what I am talking about: lions of Americans—that is not an ex- how we are going to create more of the last 20, 30 years in how Americans aggeration, by the way. It would put feel about their own personal futures those. over a million Americans back to The Davis-Bacon Act, you heard Rep- and the future of this country. work. It is critically needed for today Part of what leads to that, part of it resentative BOYLE talk a little bit and tomorrow, and I appeal to this about that earlier, about how impor- is stagnant economic wages. I have White House, even in this talked about that at length on the tant that is. We should be troubled. hyperpartisan, fractured time, to work When you start talking about good floor as part of a previous Blue Collar with us on this issue and finally, 4 Caucus hour. Part of that also, though, jobs, good-paying jobs, we should be months after taking office, unveil your troubled that congressional Repub- is the sense that we are not building infrastructure plan. anymore; that 100 years ago we were licans have taken steps to repeal the I yield to the gentleman from Texas Davis-Bacon Act. building, that we were launching the (Mr. VEASEY), my colleague and co- first airplane; that 50 years ago we I want to talk a little bit about the chairman. Davis-Bacon Act, but first I want to were going to the Moon. Mr. VEASEY. Mr. Speaker, I thank In the Eisenhower era we were build- talk about why the Davis-Bacon Act is Representative BOYLE. I really appre- important. A lot of times in Wash- ing the world’s best highways. But in ciate the points he has made tonight, ington, D.C., we start talking about today’s day and age, we don’t build just so timely. It is so important that these terms. People at the Chamber of anymore. That growth is happening in we talk about those things during In- Commerce, they know what Davis- Asia and in other parts of the world. frastructure Week and the Blue Collar Bacon is, but maybe the average person So just imagine what that would do Caucus and the role that the caucus is has no idea what Davis-Bacon is. not just for the economy, not just for playing in pointing out a lot of these People don’t come up to me at the our infrastructure, but imagine what it things that need to be talked about. Dollar Store in Fort Worth and say: would do for the spirit of America if Again, when you talk about the in- they saw a trillion-dollar infrastruc- frastructure bill, if we had a legitimate Hey, Congressman VEASEY, hey, MARC, ture bill take hold, if they saw our trillion-dollar infrastructure program what are we going to do to protect roads being rebuilt and new roads being and it were enacted, we could put the Davis-Bacon? But people do stop me at built, if they saw the investments that United States back on a prerecession the Dollar Store and say: Hey, MARC, we can make in our mass transit and job growth path and, some people say, what are we going to do about putting our intercity rail. create close to 11 million jobs. some more money in our pockets? I happen to represent a district According to the Bureau of Labor That is what Davis-Bacon is all smack dab in the middle of the North- Statistics, infrastructure spending about. That is where the Republicans east corridor. I met today in my office today—that is what we spend on infra- fail the American worker. with the chairman of The Northeast structure spending right now—is di- The Davis-Bacon Act requires that Maglev project, a project to take a rectly responsible for about 15.5 million certain contractors and subcontractors technology that exists today in Japan, direct and indirect U.S. jobs, and you responsible for carrying out Federal build it here in the United States, and are talking about average salaries of contracts pay their laborers and me- make it possible that you could get $68,000 per year. That is 28 percent chanics the prevailing wages for the from New York City to my district in above the U.S. median income. We area. That is what I am talking about Philadelphia in a half hour, that you know that infrastructure jobs pay well. when I say putting more money in your could get from New York City to Wash- There is absolutely no doubt about pocket, putting more food on the table, ington, D.C., in 1 hour instead of the 3 that. being able to make that light bill, hours that it takes today. That would Investment in infrastructure also being able to make that car bill, being have a transformative effect. No other adds more indirect jobs in manufac- able to make that truck payment. place in the world has the maglev. turing, logistics, transportation, and I want to sell more cars. We have a Even in Japan, which has invented the an increasing demand for steel, glass, General Motors plant in Arlington, technology, it is only in a small concrete; and all those things get the Texas, that makes some very good snippet. job growth growing in America. SUVs, good-paying union jobs, good So making sure that we can move According to Georgetown University, union-made SUVs, American-made forward in a bipartisan way, actually more than half of the new infrastruc- SUVs, and you don’t get that with achieving something with Democrats ture jobs will go to high school grad- lower rates. You get that with the pre- and Republicans working together with uates and even high school dropouts. vailing wage rates that Republicans this administration, we would send So many of our young men who find are trying to do away with. That is such a signal beyond the substance of themselves dropping out end up in the what everybody needs to understand. the issue itself. I believe that we would incarceration system, but we know Ensuring workers are paid a fair have a dramatic effect in improving that, if we can find high school drop- wage is extremely important, espe- the way that the American people feel outs a job and they are not left behind cially for blue-collar workers. Pre- about their future and the future of our due to economic changes and economic vailing wage laws provide protections country. factors, we can help those young men. for both construction workers and the Mr. Speaker, literally, over a million According to that same analysis, jobs taxpayers. They ensure that all con- jobs will be created by a $1 trillion in- and occupations that are expected to tractors bidding on public construction

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:45 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00081 Fmt 7634 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY7.126 H17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with HOUSE H4308 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — HOUSE May 17, 2017 projects will pay family-supporting nology, but they don’t see their pay- 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Com- wages and that they also ensure checks getting any fatter—but they do mittee on Energy and Commerce. projects will be built to the highest feel themselves struggling more and 1361. A letter from the Director, Regula- standards by skilled, safe, and well- more and more. We have got to change tions Policy and Management Staff, FDA, Department of Health and Human Services, trained construction workers. that. transmitting the Department’s interim final Numerous studies have shown, con- I would like to again thank Rep- rule — Food Labeling; Nutrition Labeling of trary to the claims of corporate inter- resentative BOYLE just for being an ad- Standard Menu Items in Restaurants and ests, that Davis-Bacon wage protec- vocate for the hardworking citizens in Similar Retail Food Establishments; Exten- tions do not increase taxpayers’ costs. the Philadelphia area in his district, sion of Compliance Date; Request for Com- That is the one thing that you are just for being a voice on this, and other ments [Docket No.: FDA-2011-F-0172] (RIN: going to hear from Republicans and Members of Congress that came out to- 0910-ZA48) received May 16, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. downtown business interest people night—Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. LIPINSKI, and 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee on En- when they want to keep income in- others—because we know that this is ergy and Commerce. equality growing in this country in- important. 1362. A letter from the Director, Defense stead of trying to stop income inequal- We have to keep talking about this. Security Cooperation Agency, Department of ity is that Davis-Bacon drives up wages We cannot continue to let the Amer- Defense, transmitting the Army’s proposed because it allows families to put more ican worker fail. We cannot continue Letter of Offer and Acceptance to the Gov- food on their table. I think that is a to let the American worker’s dollar not ernment of India, Transmittal No. 17-08, pur- doggone shame. grow while we see our economy grow suant to Sec. 36(b)(1) of the Arms Export Fairly paid craftsmen added value to and while we see new technology and Control Act, as amended; to the Committee our investments in infrastructure, and on Foreign Affairs. fat cats getting rich, seeing corporate 1363. A letter from the President and Chief Davis-Bacon must continue to be in- America getting rich but the average, Executive Officer, Federal Home Loan Bank cluded in any infrastructure plan. Re- everyday American just continues to of Topeka, transmitting the 2016 manage- peal of Davis-Bacon would decrease the fall further and further behind. It has ment report of the Federal Home Loan Bank quality of blue-collar jobs, and that is to end. It has to end. of Topeka, pursuant to the Chief Financial a loss that we cannot afford. A repeal Congress needs to work together to Officers Act of 1990; to the Committee on of Davis-Bacon would decrease the do something about that. I am glad Oversight and Government Reform. amount of money that you take home that the Democratic Party in the 1364. A letter from the Chairperson, Coun- every week or that you take home cil of the Inspectors General on Integrity United States House of Representatives and Efficiency, transmitting the Council’s every 2 weeks, however often you get is taking the lead on this issue. FY 2016 No FEAR Act report, pursuant to 5 that check, however often you look for Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- U.S.C. 2301 note; Public Law 107-174, 203(a) that direct deposit so you can make vania. Mr. Speaker, I yield back the (as amended by Public Law 109-435, Sec. those bills. If we repeal Davis-Bacon, balance of my time. 604(f)); (120 Stat. 3242); to the Committee on you will not be making those bills as Oversight and Government Reform. f easy as you were before. 1365. A letter from the Acting Chairman, You need to let your Republican SENATE BILL REFERRED National Credit Union Administration, transmitting the Administration’s Inspector Member of Congress know that you A Bill of the Senate of the following want to bring more money home, that General’s semi-annual report for October 1, title was taken from the Speaker’s 2016, through March 31, 2017, pursuant to Sec. you want these prevailing wages, that table and, under the rule, referred as 5(b) of the Inspector General Act of 1978; to you do not want to lose these, that it follows: the Committee on Oversight and Govern- would be absolutely devastating for S. 867. An act to provide support for law ment Reform. your family. enforcement agency efforts to protect the 1366. A letter from the Acting Officer, Of- Another area that Blue Collar Caucus mental health and well-being of law enforce- fice for Civil Rights and Civil Liberties, De- has talked about, another area that we ment officers, and for other purposes; to the partment of Homeland Security, transmit- are going to continue to talk about and Committee on the Judiciary. ting the Department’s FY 2016 No FEAR Act that Congress should press forward on report, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 2301 note; Public f Law 107-174, 203(a) (as amended by Public in great speed is the Buy America pro- ADJOURNMENT Law 109-435, Sec. 604(f)); (120 Stat. 3242); to visions. They have to be in any infra- the Committee on Oversight and Govern- structure package that we pass. Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsyl- ment Reform. Buy America generally requires that vania. Mr. Speaker, I move that the 1367. A letter from the Chief, Office of Reg- projects carried out by State and local House do now adjourn. ulation Policy and Management, Office of governments use U.S.-made iron and The motion was agreed to; accord- the Secretary (00REG), Department of Vet- steel and that they also require domes- ingly (at 8 o’clock and 43 minutes erans Affairs, transmitting the Department’s resolution of interim final rule — Extension tic production and assembly of other p.m.), under its previous order, the manufactured goods be made right here of Pharmacy Copayments for Medications House adjourned until tomorrow, (RIN: 2900-AP87) received May 16, 2017, pursu- in the good old USA. Thursday, May 18, 2017, at 10 a.m. for ant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104- These projects—again, mainly high- morning-hour debate. 121, Sec. 251; (110 Stat. 868); to the Committee ways, public transportation, aviation— on Veterans’ Affairs. f are vitally important to our economy, 1368. A letter from the Chief, Office of Reg- and ensuring that these projects are EXECUTIVE COMMUNICATIONS, ulation Policy and Management, Office of made with quality American-made ETC. the Secretary (00REG), Department of Vet- erans Affairs, transmitting the Department’s goods means that we get better value Under clause 2 of rule XIV, executive and that we put our own people to final rule — Payment or Reimbursement for communications were taken from the Certain Medical Expenses for Camp Lejeune work. All of this means more and bet- Speaker’s table and referred as follows: Family Members (RIN: 2900-AO79) received ter jobs for hardworking Americans 1359. A letter from the Secretary, Depart- May 16, 2017, pursuant to 5 U.S.C. out there. ment of Defense, transmitting a letter au- 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law 104-121, Sec. 251; (110 As we set about rebuilding America’s thorizing 26 officers to wear the insignia of Stat. 868); to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- infrastructure, we have to make sure the grade of major general or brigadier gen- fairs. that we are building an economy that eral, pursuant to 10 U.S.C. 777(b)(3)(B); Pub- f works for everyone and not just the lic Law 104-106, Sec. 503(a)(1) (as added by corporate interests in this country be- Public Law 108-136, Sec. 509(a)(3)); (117 Stat. REPORTS OF COMMITTEES ON cause, again, we have to do something 1458); to the Committee on Armed Services. PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS about income inequality in this coun- 1360. A letter from the Director, Regula- Under clause 2 of rule XIII, reports of try. It is very real. Productivity is up. tions Policy and Management Staff, FDA, committees were delivered to the Clerk Department of Health and Human Services, People’s paychecks are stagnant. That transmitting the Department’s final rule — for printing and reference to the proper is why people still feel the economic Indirect Food Additives: Polymers [Docket calendar, as follows: pinch and the economic pain, because No.: FDA-2016-F-1805] received May 16, 2017, Mr. CHAFFETZ: Committee on Oversight they see the growth, they see the tech- pursuant to 5 U.S.C. 801(a)(1)(A); Public Law and Government Reform. H.R. 195. A bill to

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Pennsylvania, Ms. BROWNLEY of Cali- MCNERNEY, Mr. WELCH, Mr. BEN RAY Mr. CHAFFETZ: Committee on Oversight fornia, Mrs. BUSTOS, Mr. CARBAJAL, LUJA´ N of New Mexico, Mr. TONKO, Ms. and Government Reform. H.R. 2227. A bill to Mr. CARTWRIGHT, Ms. CASTOR of Flor- CLARKE of New York, Mr. LOEBSACK, modernize Government information tech- ida, Ms. JUDY CHU of California, Mr. Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. RUIZ, Mrs. DIN- nology, and for other purposes (Rept. 115–129, CICILLINE, Mr. COHEN, Mr. CONNOLLY, GELL, Mr. KENNEDY, Ms. MATSUI, Ms. Pt. 1). Referred to the Committee of the Mr. CORREA, Mr. CUMMINGS, Mr. DEGETTE, and Mr. PETERS): Whole House on the state of the Union. DEFAZIO, Ms. DEGETTE, Ms. H.R. 2479. A bill to rebuild and modernize Mr. GOODLATTE: Committee on the Judi- DELAURO, Ms. DELBENE, Mr. the Nation’s infrastructure to expand access ciary. H.R. 2266. A bill to amend title 28 of DESAULNIER, Mrs. DINGELL, Ms. to broadband internet, rehabilitate drinking the United States Code to authorize the ap- ESHOO, Ms. ESTY of Connecticut, Mr. water infrastructure, modernize the electric pointment of additional bankruptcy judges; EVANS, Mr. FOSTER, Mr. GRIJALVA, grid and energy supply infrastructure, rede- and for other purposes (Rept. 115–130). Re- Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, Ms. HANABUSA, Mr. velop brownfields, strengthen health care in- ferred to the Committee of the Whole House HASTINGS, Mr. HOYER, Ms. JAYAPAL, frastructure, create jobs, protect public on the state of the Union. Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. KILDEE, health and the environment, and for other Mr. LANGEVIN, Mr. LARSON of Con- DISCHARGE OF COMMITTEE purposes; to the Committee on Energy and necticut, Mrs. LAWRENCE, Mr. Commerce, and in addition to the Commit- Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XIII, the LAWSON of Florida, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. tees on Science, Space, and Technology, Committee on House Administration LOEBSACK, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mrs. Transportation and Infrastructure, Ways and discharged from further consideration LOWEY, Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Means, and Natural Resources, for a period H.R. 195 referred to the Committee of Mexico, Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRIS- to be subsequently determined by the Speak- the Whole House on the state of the HAM of New Mexico, Mr. LYNCH, Mrs. er, in each case for consideration of such pro- Union. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York, visions as fall within the jurisdiction of the Pursuant to clause 2 of rule XIII, the Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of New committee concerned. Committee on Appropriations dis- York, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. MCGOVERN, By Mrs. HARTZLER: Mr. MOULTON, Mr. NORCROSS, Ms. H.R. 2480. A bill to amend the Omnibus charged from further consideration NORTON, Mr. O’ROURKE, Mr. PAYNE, Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to H.R. 2227 referred to the Committee of Mr. PERLMUTTER, Ms. PINGREE, Mr. include an additional permissible use of the Whole House on the state of the RASKIN, Miss RICE of New York, Mr. amounts provided as grants under the Byrne Union. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. SABLAN, Ms. JAG program, and for other purposes; to the SA´ NCHEZ, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. Committee on the Judiciary. f SCHIFF, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, Mr. By Mr. TED LIEU of California (for PUBLIC BILLS AND RESOLUTIONS SERRANO, Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mr. himself and Mr. FARENTHOLD): SHERMAN, Ms. SLAUGHTER, Mr. SOTO, H.R. 2481. A bill to establish the Vulner- Under clause 2 of rule XII, public Mr. SWALWELL of California, Ms. ability Equities Review Board, and for other bills and resolutions of the following TITUS, Mrs. TORRES, Ms. TSONGAS, purposes; to the Committee on Oversight and titles were introduced and severally re- Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Mr. VISCLOSKY, Ms. Government Reform. ferred, as follows: WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. WELCH, Mr. By Ms. STEFANIK (for herself, Mr. POCAN, Mr. DUNCAN of Tennessee, Ms. By Mr. SCOTT of Virginia (for himself, YARMUTH, Mr. ENGEL, Mr. POCAN, Mr. DELANEY, Ms. CLARK of Massachu- SLAUGHTER, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, and Mr. DEFAZIO, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. NOR- setts, Mr. CAPUANO, Mr. KENNEDY, Mr. DESAULNIER): CROSS, Mrs. DINGELL, Mr. KIHUEN, Ms. Mr. NEAL, Mr. KILMER, Mr. KIND, Mr. H.R. 2482. A bill to extend temporarily the NORTON, Mr. SABLAN, Mr. ESPAILLAT, CONYERS, Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, Federal Perkins Loan program, and for other Ms. BONAMICI, Ms. ADAMS, Mr. RYAN Mr. MICHAEL F. DOYLE of Pennsyl- purposes; to the Committee on Education of Ohio, Mr. GALLEGO, Mr. NADLER, vania, Mr. BRADY of Pennsylvania, and the Workforce. Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. EVANS, Ms. Mr. CLEAVER, Mr. JEFFRIES, Mr. By Mr. HUDSON (for himself and Mr. VELA´ ZQUEZ, Ms. WILSON of Florida, KEATING, Ms. KAPTUR, Mrs. DAVIS of BUCSHON): Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, Ms. CLARKE California, Ms. BASS, Mr. DOGGETT, H.R. 2483. A bill to amend the Federal of New York, Mr. TED LIEU of Cali- Ms. FUDGE, Ms. KUSTER of New Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act to provide for fornia, Mr. PAYNE, Ms. KAPTUR, Mrs. Hampshire, Mr. LEWIS of Georgia, Ms. the establishment of a third-party quality DEMINGS, Mr. VELA, Ms. FUDGE, Mr. MOORE, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. THOMPSON system assessment program for devices, and RUSH, Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER, Mr. of California, Mr. VARGAS, Mr. HECK, for other purposes; to the Committee on En- RICHMOND, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. ergy and Commerce. Mr. POCAN, Mr. CONYERS, Mr. ENGEL, CHA THOMPSON of Mississippi, Mr. PRICE By Mrs. NOEM (for herself, Ms. S - Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. CLEAVER, KOWSKY OYCE of North Carolina, Mr. NOLAN, Ms. , Mr. R of California, and Mr. KHANNA, Mr. COHEN, Mr. NGEL SPEIER, Mr. TAKANO, Ms. WILSON of Mr. E ): BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsylvania, H.R. 2484. A bill to ensure that the United Florida, Mr. ELLISON, Ms. CLARKE of Mr. JEFFRIES, Mr. BRADY of Pennsyl- States promotes the meaningful participa- New York, Mr. HUFFMAN, Mr. CARSON vania, Mr. CLAY, Mr. TAKANO, Mr. tion of women in mediation and negotiation of Indiana, Ms. LOFGREN, Mr. WALZ, VARGAS, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. processes seeking to prevent, mitigate, or re- and Mr. SARBANES): MCEACHIN, Mrs. TORRES, Mr. NOLAN, H.R. 2477. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- solve violent conflict; to the Committee on Mr. DESAULNIER, Mr. LOEBSACK, Ms. cation Act of 1965 to provide for the refi- Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Com- MOORE, Ms. HANABUSA, Mr. SERRANO, nancing of certain Federal student loans, mittee on Armed Services, for a period to be Mr. BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mexico, and for other purposes; to the Committee on subsequently determined by the Speaker, in Mr. GENE GREEN of Texas, Ms. Education and the Workforce, and in addi- each case for consideration of such provi- DELAURO, Ms. CASTOR of Florida, Ms. tion to the Committees on Ways and Means, sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. MCGOVERN, and Mr. and the Budget, for a period to be subse- committee concerned. CARTWRIGHT): quently determined by the Speaker, in each By Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of H.R. 2475. A bill to provide for the long- case for consideration of such provisions as New York (for himself and Mr. FASO): term improvement of public school facilities, fall within the jurisdiction of the committee H.R. 2485. A bill to require the Adminis- and for other purposes; to the Committee on concerned. trator of the Federal Aviation Administra- Education and the Workforce, and in addi- By Mr. COLLINS of Georgia (for him- tion to evaluate and consider revising regu- tion to the Committees on Ways and Means, self, Mr. COFFMAN, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, lations relating to emergency medical equip- and the Budget, for a period to be subse- Mr. SMITH of Texas, and Mr. ment requirements for passenger aircraft; to quently determined by the Speaker, in each LAMALFA): the Committee on Transportation and Infra- case for consideration of such provisions as H.R. 2478. A bill to amend the Veterans Ac- structure. fall within the jurisdiction of the committee cess, Choice, and Accountability Act of 2014 By Mr. SCOTT of Virginia (for himself, concerned. to clarify the distance requirement with re- Mr. CONYERS, Mr. SABLAN, and Ms. By Mrs. BLACK (for herself, Mr. DANNY spect to determining the eligibility of vet- ADAMS): K. DAVIS of Illinois, Mr. FRANKS of erans to receive hospital care and medical H.R. 2486. A bill to amend title VI of the Arizona, and Ms. BASS): services from non-Department of Veterans Civil Rights Act of 1964 to restore the right H.R. 2476. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- Affairs facilities; to the Committee on Vet- to individual civil actions in cases involving enue Code of 1986 to provide for a refundable erans’ Affairs. disparate impact, and for other purposes; to

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the Committee on the Judiciary, and in addi- lation of the Federal Election Campaign Act Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. SWALWELL of Cali- tion to the Committee on Education and the of 1971 or engaged in other offenses relating fornia, Mr. COHEN, Mr. GARAMENDI, Workforce, for a period to be subsequently to the abuse of the public trust, and for other Mr. VEASEY, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Ms. determined by the Speaker, in each case for purposes; to the Committee on Education SLAUGHTER, Mr. ELLISON, Ms. JACK- consideration of such provisions as fall with- and the Workforce, and in addition to the SON LEE, Mr. MEEKS, Mr. FOSTER, Ms. in the jurisdiction of the committee con- Committee on House Administration, for a MOORE, Mr. GALLEGO, Ms. BLUNT cerned. period to be subsequently determined by the ROCHESTER, Mr. BROWN of Maryland, By Mr. WILSON of South Carolina (for Speaker, in each case for consideration of Ms. SEWELL of Alabama, and Ms. himself and Mrs. DAVIS of California): such provisions as fall within the jurisdic- VELA´ ZQUEZ): H.R. 2487. A bill to amend title 37, United tion of the committee concerned. H.R. 2499. A bill to amend the Help Amer- States Code, to provide for the housing By Mr. DEUTCH (for himself, Ms. LOF- ica Vote Act of 2002 to require States to treatment of members of the Armed Forces GREN, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. POCAN, meet standards for the location and oper- and their spouses and dependents undergoing Mr. SARBANES, and Mr. CICILLINE): ation of polling places used in elections for a permanent change of station in the United H.R. 2493. A bill to amend the Ethics in Federal office, including a standard requir- States, and for other purposes; to the Com- Government Act of 1978 to require individ- ing States to ensure that no individual waits mittee on Armed Services. uals nominated or appointed to Senate-con- for longer than one hour to cast a vote at a By Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ (for herself, Miss firmed positions or to positions of a con- polling place, and for other purposes; to the GONZA´ LEZ-COLO´ N of Puerto Rico, Mr. fidential or policymaking character to dis- Committee on House Administration. SERRANO, Mr. MACARTHUR, Mr. SOTO, close certain types of contributions made or By Mr. HUFFMAN: Mr. DUFFY, and Mrs. MURPHY of Flor- solicited by, or on behalf of, the individuals; H.R. 2500. A bill to amend title 18, United ida): to the Committee on Oversight and Govern- States Code, to prohibit high-level Federal H.R. 2488. A bill to provide for small busi- ment Reform. employees from participating in any matter ness concerns located in Puerto Rico, and for By Mr. ESPAILLAT (for himself, Mr. substantially related to the appointee’s other purposes; to the Committee on Small COHEN, and Mr. MCGOVERN): former employment, and for other purposes; Business. H.R. 2494. A bill to amend the Ethics in to the Committee on the Judiciary. By Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ: Government Act of 1978 to require the Presi- By Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia (for H.R. 2489. A bill to amend the Small Busi- dent to place any financial conflicts of inter- himself, Mr. TURNER, Mr. RYAN of ness Investment Act of 1958 and the Small est into a blind trust, and for other purposes; Ohio, and Ms. CLARK of Massachu- Business Act to include small business in- to the Committee on Oversight and Govern- setts): vestment companies in the Small Business ment Reform. H.R. 2501. A bill to amend title XIX of the Innovation Research Program and the Small By Ms. FRANKEL of Florida (for her- Social Security Act to provide States with Business Technology Transfer Program, and self, Ms. ROS-LEHTINEN, and Mr. the option of providing medical assistance at for other purposes; to the Committee on WELCH): a residential pediatric recovery center to in- Small Business. H.R. 2495. A bill to protect consumers from fants under 1 year of age with neonatal ab- By Mr. BERA: deceptive practices with respect to online stinence syndrome and their families; to the H.R. 2490. A bill to amend title IV of the booking of hotel reservations, and for other Committee on Energy and Commerce. Higher Education Act of 1965 in order to in- purposes; to the Committee on Energy and By Ms. MENG: crease the amount of financial support avail- Commerce. H.R. 2502. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- able for working students; to the Committee By Mr. FRANKS of Arizona: enue Code of 1986 to exclude certain com- on Education and the Workforce. H.R. 2496. A bill to prohibit assessed or vol- pensation received by public safety officers By Mr. CICILLINE (for himself, Ms. untary contributions to the United Nations, and their dependents from gross income; to BONAMICI, Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of and for other purposes; to the Committee on the Committee on Ways and Means. Pennsylvania, Ms. BROWNLEY of Cali- Foreign Affairs. By Mr. PAULSEN (for himself, Mr. fornia, Ms. CLARK of Massachusetts, By Mr. FRANKS of Arizona: KIND, and Mrs. MIMI WALTERS of Cali- Mr. CONNOLLY, Mr. DELANEY, Ms. H.R. 2497. A bill to prohibit assistance for fornia): H.R. 2503. A bill to amend title XVIII of the DELBENE, Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. ELLISON, the Palestinian Authority and the West Social Security Act to promote health care Mr. ENGEL, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Ms. ESTY Bank and Gaza, and for other purposes; to technology innovation and access to medical of Connecticut, Ms. FRANKEL of Flor- the Committee on Foreign Affairs. devices and services for which patients ida, Mr. GALLEGO, Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, By Mr. GOTTHEIMER (for himself, Mr. choose to self-pay under the Medicare pro- Mr. HASTINGS, Ms. NORTON, Mr. JEFFRIES, Ms. JUDY CHU of California, gram, and for other purposes; to the Com- HUFFMAN, Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. Mr. BLUMENAUER, Mr. SWALWELL of mittee on Ways and Means, and in addition JOHNSON of Georgia, Miss RICE of New California, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. to the Committee on Energy and Commerce, York, Mr. KEATING, Ms. KELLY of Illi- TSONGAS, Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, for a period to be subsequently determined nois, Mr. KILDEE, Mr. KILMER, Mr. Mr. PETERS, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALO- by the Speaker, in each case for consider- LANGEVIN, Ms. LEE, Mr. LOWENTHAL, NEY of New York, Mr. GRIJALVA, Ms. ation of such provisions as fall within the ju- Mrs. LOWEY, Mr. LYNCH, Ms. MCCOL- CLARKE of New York, Mrs. DAVIS of risdiction of the committee concerned. LUM, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. MOULTON, California, Mr. DELANEY, Mr. POLIS, By Ms. PINGREE (for herself and Mr. Mr. NADLER, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. SEAN Mr. CICILLINE, Mr. SHERMAN, Mr. POLIQUIN): CONNOLLY, Ms. SPEIER, Ms. NORTON, PATRICK MALONEY of New York, Mr. H.R. 2504. A bill to ensure fair treatment in Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. CAPUANO, Ms. PETERS, Ms. PINGREE, Mr. POCAN, Ms. licensing requirements for the export of cer- ROSEN, Mr. RUSH, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, DELBENE, Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Mr. tain echinoderms; to the Committee on Nat- ´ Ms. SANCHEZ, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. TED LIEU of California, Ms. LEE, Mr. ural Resources, and in addition to the Com- SHEA-PORTER, Mr. SHERMAN, Ms. LANGEVIN, Ms. PINGREE, Mr. HIMES, mittee on Foreign Affairs, for a period to be SINEMA, Mr. SIRES, Mr. SMITH of Ms. ADAMS, Mr. POCAN, Mr. NADLER, subsequently determined by the Speaker, in Washington, Ms. SPEIER, Mr. TAKANO, Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mr. CROWLEY, Mrs. each case for consideration of such provi- Ms. TITUS, Mrs. TORRES, Ms. TSON- LOWEY, Mr. CARSON of Indiana, Mr. sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the GAS, Mr. WALZ, Ms. WASSERMAN JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. QUIGLEY, committee concerned. SCHULTZ, Mr. WELCH, and Mr. YAR- Mr. TAKANO, Mr. PASCRELL, Mr. KIL- By Mr. REED (for himself and Ms. MUTH): DEE, Ms. MENG, Ms. BROWNLEY of SA´ NCHEZ): H.R. 2491. A bill to impose sanctions with California, Mr. SCHNEIDER, Mr. CRIST, H.R. 2505. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- respect to foreign persons responsible for and Mr. COFFMAN): enue Code of 1986 to provide a nonrefundable gross violations of internationally recog- H.R. 2498. A bill to amend the Equal Credit credit for working family caregivers; to the nized human rights against lesbian, gay, bi- Opportunity Act to prohibit discrimination Committee on Ways and Means. sexual, and transgender (LGBT) individuals, on account of sexual orientation or gender By Mr. RYAN of Ohio (for himself and and for other purposes; to the Committee on identity when extending credit; to the Com- Mr. THOMPSON of Pennsylvania): Foreign Affairs, and in addition to the Com- mittee on Financial Services. H.R. 2506. A bill to direct the Secretary of mittee on the Judiciary, for a period to be By Mr. GRIJALVA (for himself, Ms. Veterans Affairs to establish a pilot program subsequently determined by the Speaker, in WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, Mr. RASKIN, to award grants to nonprofit veterans service each case for consideration of such provi- Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Ms. JUDY organizations to upgrade the community fa- sions as fall within the jurisdiction of the CHU of California, Ms. LEE, Mr. RICH- cilities of such organizations; to the Com- committee concerned. MOND, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mr. HIGGINS mittee on Veterans’ Affairs. By Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois: of New York, Mr. NADLER, Ms. CAS- By Mr. SARBANES (for himself and H.R. 2492. A bill to amend chapter 81 of TOR of Florida, Mr. POLIS, Mrs. Mr. MCNERNEY): title 5, United States Code, to require the BEATTY, Ms. CLARKE of New York, H.R. 2507. A bill to provide for a technology forfeiture of worker’s compensation benefits Mrs. DAVIS of California, Mr. CON- demonstration program related to the mod- under such chapter by any individual who, YERS, Mr. CARTWRIGHT, Mr. MCNER- ernization of the electric grid; to the Com- while serving as a Member of Congress, con- NEY, Miss RICE of New York, Mr. mittee on Energy and Commerce, and in ad- verted campaign funds to personal use in vio- CICILLINE, Mr. PAYNE, Ms. NORTON, dition to the Committee on Science, Space,

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and Technology, for a period to be subse- By Mr. MCNERNEY (for himself and Congress has the power to enact this legis- quently determined by the Speaker, in each Mr. LATTA): lation pursuant to the following: case for consideration of such provisions as H. Res. 334. A resolution expressing the Article 1, Section 8 of the United States fall within the jurisdiction of the committee sense of the House of Representatives regard- Constitution. concerned. ing grid modernization; to the Committee on By Mr. HUDSON: By Mr. SERRANO (for himself, Mr. Energy and Commerce, and in addition to H.R. 2483. MCGOVERN, Mr. SOTO, Ms. MCCOLLUM, the Committee on Science, Space, and Tech- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Ms. JACKSON LEE, Ms. JUDY CHU of nology, for a period to be subsequently deter- lation pursuant to the following: California, Mr. KILMER, Mr. RASKIN, mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- Article I, Section 8 Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, Mr. EVANS, Ms. NOR- sideration of such provisions as fall within By Mrs. NOEM: TON, Mr. VARGAS, Mr. NADLER, Ms. the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. H.R. 2484. VELA´ ZQUEZ, and Mr. SMITH of Wash- By Mr. WALZ (for himself, Mr. MAST, Congress has the power to enact this legis- ington): Mr. THOMPSON of California, Mr. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 2508. A bill to provide discretionary JONES, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of Article I, Section 8 authority to an immigration judge to deter- New York, Mr. RYAN of Ohio, Mr. By Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of mine that an alien parent of a United States EVANS, Ms. KUSTER of New Hamp- New York: citizen child should not be ordered removed, shire, Mr. FRANKS of Arizona, Ms. H.R. 2485. deported, or excluded from the United ESTY of Connecticut, Mr. PETERS, Ms. Congress has the power to enact this legis- States; to the Committee on the Judiciary. BROWNLEY of California, and Mr. PA- lation pursuant to the following: By Mr. TONKO (for himself, Mr. NETTA): Article I, Sec. 8 KHANNA, Ms. MATSUI, Mr. KENNEDY, H. Res. 335. A resolution supporting the By Mr. SCOTT of Virginia: Ms. DEGETTE, and Mr. CONYERS): goals and ideals of National Purple Heart H.R. 2486. H.R. 2509. A bill to amend title XVIII of the Recognition Day; to the Committee on Congress has the power to enact this legis- Social Security Act to eliminate the 190-day Armed Services. lation pursuant to the following: lifetime limit on inpatient psychiatric hos- Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution of pital services under the Medicare Program; f the United States. to the Committee on Ways and Means. CONSTITUTIONAL AUTHORITY By Mr. WILSON of South Carolina: By Mr. BUDD: STATEMENT H.R. 2487. H. Res. 329. A resolution recognizing the Congress has the power to enact this legis- significance of the hundredth anniversary of Pursuant to clause 7 of rule XII of lation pursuant to the following: the soda Cheerwine; to the Committee on the Rules of the House of Representa- Article 1, Section 8; and Article IV, Sec- Energy and Commerce. tives, the following statements are sub- tion 3, Clause 2 of the Constitution of the By Mr. DAVIDSON: United States of America H. Res. 330. A resolution authorizing and mitted regarding the specific powers By Ms. VELA´ ZQUEZ: directing certain authorizing committees to granted to Congress in the Constitu- H.R. 2488. review laws within their jurisdiction and tion to enact the accompanying bill or Congress has the power to enact this legis- submit to the Committee on Oversight and joint resolution. lation pursuant to the following: Government Reform changes in such laws By Mr. SCOTT of Virginia: Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 necessary to eliminate excessive Executive H.R. 2475. Branch discretion in the application of those The Congress shall have Power to . . . pro- Congress has the power to enact this legis- laws; to the Committee on Rules. vide for the . . . general Welfare of the lation pursuant to the following: United States; . . . By Mr. FRANKS of Arizona: ´ H. Res. 331. A resolution expressing the Article I, Section 8 of the Constitution of By Ms. VELAZQUEZ: policy of the United States with respect to a the United States. H.R. 2489. two-state solution between the State of By Mrs. BLACK: Congress has the power to enact this legis- Israel and the Palestinian people; to the H.R. 2476. lation pursuant to the following: Committee on Foreign Affairs. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 By Ms. LEE (for herself, Mr. GRIJALVA, lation pursuant to the following: The Congress shall have Power * * * To Mr. KILDEE, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, Mr. Article I of the Constitution and its subse- regulate Commerce with foreign Nations, POCAN, Mr. PALLONE, Ms. MCCOLLUM, quent amendments and further clarified and and among the several States, and with the Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. CICILLINE, Ms. interpreted by the Supreme Court of the Indian Tribes. DELBENE, Ms. WASSERMAN SCHULTZ, United States. By Mr. BERA: Ms. SPEIER, Ms. NORTON, Mr. SMITH By Mr. COURTNEY: H.R. 2490. H.R. 2477. of Washington, Mr. GALLEGO, Ms. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- CLARK of Massachusetts, Ms. lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: BROWNLEY of California, Mr. BLU- Article I, Section 8, Clause 18 of the Con- Article 1, Section 8 MENAUER, Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN, Ms. stitution By Mr. COLLINS of Georgia: SLAUGHTER, Mr. MCEACHIN, Mr. By Mr. CICILLINE: H.R. 2478. LOWENTHAL, Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALO- H.R. 2491. Congress has the power to enact this legis- NEY of New York, Mr. JOHNSON of Congress has the power to enact this legislation pursuant to the following: Georgia, Mr. DEUTCH, Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, lation pursuant to the following: Article I, Section 8, Clause 14: To make Mr. KILMER, Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Mrs. Article 1 Section 8 of the United States Rules for the Government and Regulation of LOWEY, Ms. PINGREE, Ms. SA´ NCHEZ, Constitution our Land and Naval Forces. Mr. ELLISON, Mr. KEATING, Mr. By Mr. RODNEY DAVIS of Illinois: By Mr. PALLONE: KHANNA, Ms. FRANKEL of Florida, Mr. H.R. 2492. H.R. 2479. QUIGLEY, Mr. SWALWELL of Cali- Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- fornia, Ms. HANABUSA, Mrs. NAPOLI- lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: Article 1, Section 6, Clause 1 of the United TANO, Mr. LARSEN of Washington, Mr. Article I, Section 8, Clause 18: The Con- States Constitution HIMES, Mr. YARMUTH, Mr. LEVIN, Mr. gress shall have power to make all Laws By Mr. DEUTCH: MEEKS, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mr. SIRES, which shall be necessary and proper for car- H.R. 2493. Mr. ENGEL, Mrs. DEMINGS, Mr. POLIS, rying into Execution the foregoing Powers, Congress has the power to enact this legis- Mr. PANETTA, Mr. RASKIN, and Ms. and all other Powers vested by the Constitu- lation pursuant to the following: JAYAPAL): H. Res. 332. A resolution supporting the tion in the Government of the United States, Article I, Section 8 of the United States goals and ideals of the International Day or in any Department or Officer thereof. Constitution Against Homophobia and Transphobia; to [Page H1244] By Mr. ESPAILLAT: the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and in ad- By Mrs. HARTZLER: H.R. 2494. dition to the Committees on Energy and H.R. 2480. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Commerce, and Education and the Work- Congress has the power to enact this legislation pursuant to the following: force, for a period to be subsequently deter- lation pursuant to the following: Article One of the United States Constitu- mined by the Speaker, in each case for con- Clauses 1 and 3 of Article I, Section 8 of the tion, section 8, clause 18: sideration of such provisions as fall within United States Constitution. The Congress shall have Power—To make the jurisdiction of the committee concerned. By Mr. TED LIEU of California: all Laws which shall be necessary and proper By Ms. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM H.R. 2481. for carrying into Execution the foregoing of New Mexico (for herself and Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Powers, and all other Powers vested by this BEN RAY LUJA´ N of New Mexico): lation pursuant to the following: Constitution in the Government of the H. Res. 333. A resolution expressing support Article 1, Section 8 United States, or in any Department or Offi- for States to adopt ‘‘Racheal’s Law’’; to the By Ms. STEFANIK: cer thereof Committee on the Judiciary. H.R. 2482. or

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Article One of the United States Constitu- By Mr. RYAN of Ohio: H.R. 828: Mrs. TORRES. tion, Section 8, Clause 3: H.R. 2506. H.R. 849: Mr. COLLINS of Georgia, Mr. The Congress shall have Power—To regu- Congress has the power to enact this legis- BYRNE, Mr. KELLY of Mississippi, Mr. BUDD, late Commerce with foreign Nations, and lation pursuant to the following: Mr. BERGMAN, Mr. LEWIS of Minnesota, and among the several States, and with the In- Clause 18 Section 8 of Article 1 ofthe Mr. MOOLENAAR. dian tribes; United States Constitution H.R. 851: Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. By Ms. FRANKEL of Florida: By Mr. SARBANES: H.R. 856: Mr. NORCROSS. H.R. 2495. H.R. 2507. H.R. 866: Mr. BROWN of Maryland. Congress has the power to enact this legis- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 916: Mr. COHEN. lation pursuant to the following: lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 924: Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 and 18 of the Article I, Section 8. H.R. 927: Ms. GABBARD. U.S. Constitution, respectively giving By Mr. SERRANO: H.R. 952: Mr. LAWSON of Florida and Mr. Congess the authority to regulate interstate H.R. 2508. BISHOP of Georgia. commerce and to make all laws necessary Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 968: Mr. SMITH of Washington. and proper for carrying into execution the lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 980: Mr. QUIGLEY. powers of Congress. Article I, Section 8, Clause 4, which states H.R. 1000: Mr. COHEN. By Mr. FRANKS of Arizona: that Congress shall have the power ‘‘to Es- H.R. 1017: Mr. KNIGHT, Mr. MCNERNEY, Mr. H.R. 2496. tablish a uniform Rule of Naturalization,’’ SHIMKUS, and Mr. BYRNE. Congress has the power to enact this legis- and Article I, Section 8, Clause 3, which H.R. 1046: Ms. DEGETTE. lation pursuant to the following: states that Congress shall have the power H.R. 1057: Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee, Mr. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1. The Congress ‘‘to regulate Commerce with foreign Na- MOULTON, Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida, shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, tions.’’ Mr. FLORES, and Mr. LOWENTHAL. ´ Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the By Mr. TONKO: H.R. 1069: Ms. BARRAGAN. Debts and provide for the common Defence H.R. 2509. H.R. 1090: Mr. KNIGHT. and general Welfare of the United States Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1098: Mr. SWALWELL of California and By Mr. FRANKS of Arizona: lation pursuant to the following: Ms. CASTOR of Florida. H.R. 2497. Article I, Section 8, Clause 1 H.R. 1116: Mr. GALLAGHER. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1130: Mr. MARSHALL. lation pursuant to the following: f H.R. 1148: Mr. MARSHALL and Mr. PAULSEN. Article 1, Section 8, Clause 1. The Congress H.R. 1156: Mr. BARR and Ms. CHENEY. shall have Power To lay and collect Taxes, ADDITIONAL SPONSORS H.R. 1164: Mr. BRAT and Mr. RUSSELL. Duties, Imposts and Excises, to pay the Under clause 7 of rule XII, sponsors H.R. 1185: Mr. MCGOVERN. Debts and provide for the common Defence were added to public bills and resolu- H.R. 1186: Mr. MCGOVERN and Mr. PETER- and general Welfare of the United States tions, as follows: SON. By Mr. GOTTHEIMER: H.R. 1200: Mr. GALLAGHER, Mr. H.R. 2498. H.R. 60: Mr. SCHIFF. LOUDERMILK, and Mr. LOWENTHAL. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 77: Mr. MEADOWS. H.R. 1212: Mr. KING of New York, Mr. RUTH- lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 83: Mr. ROKITA. ERFORD, Ms. PINGREE, and Mr. JOHNSON of ´ ´ Article I, Section 8, Clause 3 of the United H.R. 91: Miss GONZALEZ-COLON of Puerto Ohio. States Constitution Rico. H.R. 1231: Mr. BILIRAKIS. By Mr. GRIJALVA: H.R. 100: Ms. ADAMS. H.R. 1235: Mr. THOMAS J. ROONEY of Flor- H.R. 2499. H.R. 106: Mrs. DINGELL. ida, Mr. POSEY, Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsyl- Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 108: Mr. VARGAS. vania, Mr. STIVERS, Mr. ROSS, Mr. BILIRAKIS, lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 154: Mr. LOWENTHAL, Mr. CARTWRIGHT, Mr. TIPTON, Mrs. MCMORRIS RODGERS, Ms. U.S. Const. art. I, §§ 1 and 8. Mr. HASTINGS, Mr. SCOTT of Virginia, and Mr. TENNEY, Mr. HILL, Mr. WOMACK, Mr. WILSON By Mr. HUFFMAN: WEBER of Texas. of South Carolina, Mr. BISHOP of Utah, Mr. H.R. 2500. H.R. 179: Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. REED, Mr. WALDEN, Mr. MARSHALL, Mr. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 203: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY. YODER, Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH, Mr. DENHAM, lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 214: Mrs. RADEWAGEN. Mr. HUDSON, Mr. OLSON, Mr. SMITH of New Article I, Section 8, Clause 18: To make all H.R. 227: Mr. BUCHANAN. Jersey, and Mr. HUIZENGA. Laws which shall be necessary and proper for H.R. 299: Mr. BROWN of Maryland, Mr. H.R. 1253: Mr. PETERSON. carrying into Execution the foregoing Pow- KIHUEN, Mr. CARSON of Indiana, Mr. STIVERS, H.R. 1267: Mr. ROKITA, Mr. COSTELLO of ers, and all other Powers vested by this Con- and Ms. ESHOO. Pennsylvania, and Mr. PETERSON. stitution in the Government of the United H.R. 305: Mr. COURTNEY. H.R. 1296: Mr. SMITH of Missouri. States, or in any Department or office there- H.R. 314: Mrs. BROOKS of Indiana. H.R. 1300: Mr. CRIST. of. H.R. 367: Mr. LUCAS. H.R. 1318: Mr. PETERS and Ms. PINGREE. By Mr. JENKINS of West Virginia: H.R. 389: Mrs. TORRES. H.R. 1334: Mr. FRANKS of Arizona and Mr. H.R. 2501. H.R. 400: Mr. ROKITA. LOUDERMILK. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 414: Mrs. TORRES. H.R. 1339: Mr. JODY B. HICE of Georgia. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 429: Mr. ROKITA. Article 1 Section 8 of the U.S. Constitution H.R. 1361: Mrs. COMSTOCK, Ms. TITUS, Mr. H.R. 468: Mr. CARTWRIGHT. By Ms. MENG: SUOZZI, and Mr. BILIRAKIS. H.R. 490: Mr. HUNTER, Mr. MASSIE, Mr. H.R. 2502. H.R. 1405: Mr. ESPAILLAT and Ms. PINGREE. BILIRAKIS, Mr. MOOLENAAR, and Mr. SHIMKUS. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 1406: Mr. KILMER, Mr. RUPPERS- H.R. 568: Ms. LEE. lation pursuant to the following: BERGER, Mr. ROSS, Mr. LAMALFA, Mr. H.R. 613: Mr. LAMALFA. Article I, Section 8 of the U.S. Constitu- SCHNEIDER, Ms. PINGREE, Mr. CONNOLLY, Ms. H.R. 619: Mr. LATTA, Mr. ROKITA, and Mr. tion. JACKSON LEE, Mr. DONOVAN, Mr. MOULTON, KIND. By Mr. PAULSEN: Mr. KIHUEN, Mr. DESAULNIER, and Mr. H.R. 2503. H.R. 632: Mr. PETERSON. PETERS. ´ Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 638: Mr. CARDENAS and Mrs. DAVIS of H.R. 1409: Mr. PRICE of North Carolina, Ms. lation pursuant to the following: California. MCCOLLUM, Mr. COFFMAN, Mrs. BUSTOS, Mr. Article I Section 8, Congress shall have the H.R. 672: Mr. LEVIN, Mr. GOTTHEIMER, Mr. SARBANES, Mr. YODER, Mr. BILIRAKIS, and power to lay and collect taxes, duties, im- KUSTOFF of Tennessee, Mr. KING of New Mr. KELLY of Mississippi. posts and excises, to pay the debts and pro- York, and Mr. BACON. H.R. 1422: Mr. ROKITA and Mr. DIAZ- vide for the common defense and general H.R. 681: Mr. GAETZ, Mr. ARRINGTON, Mr. BALART. welfare of the United States. RUTHERFORD, Mr. MARSHALL, and Mr. GOWDY. H.R. 1432: Ms. LOFGREN. By Ms. PINGREE: H.R. 721: Mr. ROGERS of Kentucky and Mr. H.R. 1443: Ms. KAPTUR. H.R. 2504. TIPTON. H.R. 1456: Mr. ROUZER, Mr. DESAULNIER, Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 747: Mr. KNIGHT. and Mr. SWALWELL of California. lation pursuant to the following: H.R. 750: Mr. PETERSON. H.R. 1460: Mr. BRAT. Clause 1 of Section 8 ofthe U.S. Constitu- H.R. 807: Mrs. MIMI WALTERS of California, H.R. 1486: Mr. ELLISON. tion Mr. PERRY, Mr. KENNEDY, Ms. MCSALLY, and H.R. 1491: Mr. KNIGHT. By Mr. REED: Mr. PETERSON. H.R. 1498: Mr. HECK. H.R. 2505. H.R. 812: Mr. JOHNSON of Ohio. H.R. 1528: Mr. KING of New York. Congress has the power to enact this legis- H.R. 813: Mr. CORREA, Mr. NORCROSS, and H.R. 1539: Ms. CLARKE of New York and Mr. lation pursuant to the following: Mr. LAWSON of Florida. SMITH of Washington. Clause 1 of Section 8 of Article I of the U.S. H.R. 816: Mr. CARTWRIGHT and Mr. PA- H.R. 1545: Ms. SHEA-PORTER, Mrs. Constitution and the 16th Amendment of the NETTA. WALORSKI, and Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsyl- U.S. Constitution. H.R. 821: Ms. WILSON of Florida. vania.

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H.R. 1555: Mr. YOHO and Mr. LABRADOR. H.R. 1955: Ms. STEFANIK. H.R. 2327: Ms. TENNEY, Mr. GIBBS, Mr. DUN- H.R. 1565: Mr. RENACCI. H.R. 1957: Mr. RUPPERSBERGER, Ms. CLARK CAN of South Carolina, Mr. MARINO, Mr. H.R. 1566: Mr. CASTRO of Texas. of Massachusetts, Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. RYAN of DEUTCH, Mr. ESPAILLAT, Mr. GOWDY, Mr. H.R. 1606: Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT of Georgia. Ohio, Mr. MEEHAN, Mr. THOMPSON of Cali- CLAY, Mr. CA´ RDENAS, Mr. NADLER, Mrs. MIMI H.R. 1626: Mr. THOMAS J. ROONEY of Flor- fornia, Mr. DENT, and Ms. DEGETTE. WALTERS of California, Mr. KIHUEN, Ms. ida, Mr. CRAWFORD, and Mr. STIVERS. H.R. 1968: Ms. HANABUSA, Ms. ROSEN, Mr. MCSALLY, Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia, Mr. H.R. 1652: Ms. LOFGREN, RUTHERFORD, Mr. BERGMAN, and Mr. BACON. ALLEN, Mr. OLSON, Mr. CHABOT, and Mr. KING H.R. 1673: Mr. BLUMENAUER. H.R. 1972: Mr. COSTELLO of Pennsylvania of Iowa. H.R. 1697: Mr. LOBIONDO, Mr. RUPPERS- and Mr. RUTHERFORD. H.R. 2353: Mr. GROTHMAN. BERGER, Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana, Mr. H.R. 1993: Ms. MOORE and Mr. TURNER. H.R. 2358: Mr. BEYER, Ms. JACKSON LEE, Mr. ROTHFUS, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, and HIMKUS H.R. 1997: Mr. S . CASTRO of Texas, Mr. COOK, and Ms. CLARK of Mr. LARSON of Connecticut. H.R. 1999: Mr. ROKITA. Massachusetts. H.R. 1698: Mr. HARPER, Mr. MCHENRY, Mr. H.R. 2004: Mr. PALAZZO and Mr. ISSA. H.R. 2359: Mr. TIPTON. RUIZ, Mr. WILSON of South Carolina, Ms. H.R. 2022: Mr. RUTHERFORD. CLARK of Massachusetts, and Mr. LARSON of H.R. 2023: Mr. OLSON and Mr. AUSTIN SCOTT H.R. 2386: Mr. MARCHANT. Connecticut. of Georgia. H.R. 2395: Mr. MCGOVERN. H.R. 1699: Mr. SESSIONS. H.R. 2029: Mr. BARTON. H.R. 2410: Mr. BUTTERFIELD. H.R. 1711: Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER. H.R. 2040: Mr. GROTHMAN. H.R. 2421: Mr. DENT, Mr. MCGOVERN, Mrs. H.R. 1734: Mr. MOULTON. H.R. 2043: Ms. DEGETTE. DINGELL, and Ms. ESTY of Connecticut. H.R. 1759: Mr. CARTWRIGHT and Ms. KUSTER H.R. 2051: Mr. STIVERS, Mr. SCHRADER, and H.R. 2428: Ms. SCHAKOWSKY, Ms. LEE, and of New Hampshire. Ms. DEGETTE. Mr. CONYERS. H.R. 1772: Ms. STEFANIK and Mrs. BROOKS of H.R. 2062: Mr. BYRNE and Mr. SCHNEIDER. H.R. 2431: Mr. SESSIONS. Indiana. H.R. 2063: Mr. DEUTCH. H.R. 2432: Ms. STEFANIK. H.R. 1777: Mr. BRAT, Mr. NOLAN, Mr. H.R. 2079: Mrs. RADEWAGEN. H.R. 2450: Mr. ROYCE of California and Mrs. ALLEN, Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH, and Mr. RUP- H.R. 2090: Mr. LAMALFA. CAROLYN B. MALONEY of New York. PERSBERGER. H.R. 2107: Mr. ABRAHAM. H.R. 2460: Mr. ROUZER and Mr. MULLIN. H.R. 1793: Mr. QUIGLEY. H.R. 2133: Mr. HULTGREN and Mr. LEWIS of H.R. 1811: Mr. HOLLINGSWORTH, Ms. Minnesota. H.J. Res. 51: Mr. KELLY of Mississippi, Mr. JAYAPAL, Mr. HIGGINS of Louisiana, Mr. H.R. 2142: Mrs. COMSTOCK. BUDD, and Mr. LEWIS of Minnesota. MULLIN, Mr. WOMACK, Ms. CHENEY, Mr. LEWIS H.R. 2151: Mr. RUPPERSBERGER. H. Con. Res. 8: Mr. ROUZER and Mr. of Minnesota, and Mr. MOULTON. H.R. 2155: Mr. BYRNE. CORREA. H.R. 1815: Ms. MENG. H.R. 2170: Mr. WEBSTER of Florida and Mr. H. Res. 15: Mr. KILMER. H.R. 1838: Mr. MCNERNEY and Mr. GIBBS. H. Res. 30: Mr. MARCHANT, Ms. ESHOO, Mr. WESTERMAN. H.R. 2200: Mr. MEEHAN and Ms. JENKINS of TAKANO, Mrs. LOWEY, and Mr. KENNEDY. H.R. 1876: Mr. WENSTRUP and Mr. BILI- Kansas. H. Res. 31: Mr. CRIST and Mr. PANETTA. RAKIS. H.R. 2223: Mr. CAPUANO and Mr. NOLAN. H. Res. 69: Mr. RYAN of Ohio. H.R. 1904: Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Penn- H.R. 2225: Mr. JONES, Ms. SINEMA, Ms. PIN- H. Res. 128: Mr. RUPPERSBERGER and Mr. sylvania. GREE, Mr. BLUMENAUER, Ms. KAPTUR, Mr. SMITH of Washington. H.R. 1920: Mr. SESSIONS and Mr. CARTER of LANCE, Mr. HARPER, Mr. KNIGHT, Mrs. DIN- H. Res. 161: Mr. LAWSON of Florida, Ms. Georgia. GELL, Mr. UPTON, Mr. FARENTHOLD, and Mr. DEGETTE, and Mr. JOYCE of Ohio. H.R. 1928: Mr. KHANNA, Mr. DEUTCH, Ms. RYAN of Ohio. H. Res. 165: Ms. PINGREE. MICHELLE LUJAN GRISHAM of New Mexico, H.R. 2226: Mr. ROSS. H. Res. 220: Mr. NUNES. Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ, Mr. FOSTER, Mr. LANGEVIN, H.R. 2230: Mr. ROKITA. Ms. WILSON of Florida, Ms. ROYBAL-ALLARD, H.R. 2245: Mr. FOSTER and Mr. HUFFMAN. H. Res. 259: Mr. DUNCAN of South Carolina. Mr. LANCE, Ms. DELBENE, Mr. PALLONE, Mr. H.R. 2262: Ms. PLASKETT. H. Res. 279: Mr. SEAN PATRICK MALONEY of SARBANES, Mr. MARSHALL, and Mrs. COM- H.R. 2268: Ms. STEFANIK. New York, Mr. SHERMAN, Mr. KILMER, and STOCK. H.R. 2272: Ms. BLUNT ROCHESTER and Mr. Mr. SWALWELL of California. H.R. 1939: Mr. TIPTON. DESAULNIER. H. Res. 285: Mr. CUMMINGS. H.R. 1953: Mrs. WATSON COLEMAN. H.R. 2319: Ms. SEWELL of Alabama. H. Res. 320: Mr. KATKO.

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Vol. 163 WASHINGTON, WEDNESDAY, MAY 17, 2017 No. 85 Senate The Senate met at 9:30 a.m. and was Brand, to serve as the Associate Attor- Ever since, this Republican Congress called to order by the President pro ney General. has been working to get our economy tempore (Mr. HATCH). Rachel Brand’s impressive back- moving again and spur job creation. f ground includes experience clerking for Rather than bury our economy in an Supreme Court Justice Anthony Ken- avalanche of redtape, like the last ad- PRAYER nedy, and she has already been con- ministration, it is time for a new direc- The Chaplain, Dr. Barry C. Black, of- firmed by the Senate twice before. She tion on regulations—smarter and pro- fered the following prayer: is ‘‘extraordinarily talented,’’ as Chair- growth. Already, we have taken action Let us pray. man GRASSLEY noted at her hearing, to kick-start those efforts, like passing God and God alone, we praise You and ‘‘dedicated to the full and even- important legislation to provide relief that You give power to the weak, and handed enforcement of our laws.’’ from Obama-era midnight regulations. to those who have no might You in- Ms. Brand also has the support of a Rather than make our Tax Code crease their strength. Increase the bipartisan group of former senior offi- more complex like the last administra- stamina of our lawmakers when their cials at the Justice Department, in- tion, we think it is time for a new di- hearts are overwhelmed by challenges. cluding Jamie Gorelick and Seth Wax- rection on taxes—simpler and pro-jobs. May they look to You, the fountain man, who, in a recent letter on her be- Passing tax reform legislation would of every blessing, to enable them to half, cited her ‘‘stellar reputation for mark a major achievement in bringing solve our national problems with wis- . . . integrity, legal skills, and respect us closer to that goal. This Republican dom and faithfulness. May they not be for the law.’’ Congress and this administration made As they pointed out, Ms. Brand’s ex- afraid or dismayed, always placing it a priority from the very start. Over tensive private and public sector expe- their trust in You. Lord, inspire them the years, many of our Democratic rience would serve her well as the As- to remember that Your plans stand friends have also expressed the view sociate Attorney General. They also that we need tax reform. firm, as Your purposes prevail through noted she would be a ‘‘trusted leader in For years, it has been clear that we all generations. Instruct them in the the Department.’’ I look forward to ad- should help American workers by re- way they should go as You give them vancing her nomination later this forming our outdated and convoluted Your peace. morning. We pray in Your great Name. Amen. tax system, which currently discour- f f ages investment here in America and TAX REFORM deters companies from growing, cre- PLEDGE OF ALLEGIANCE Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, on ating jobs, and increasing wages. The President pro tempore led the another matter, as I outlined last For years, it has been clear that we Pledge of Allegiance, as follows: week, during the Obama years, the should remove a huge drag on job cre- I pledge allegiance to the Flag of the American people struggled with an ation by reforming our overly complex United States of America, and to the Repub- economy that failed to meet its poten- and punitive tax system, which cur- lic for which it stands, one nation under God, tial. It had the slowest recovery since rently undercuts employers that want indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. World War II, the middle class losing to expand with new investments, jobs, f its historic status as the majority in wages, and employee benefits. our country, too many out of a job and For years, it has been clear we should RECOGNITION OF THE MAJORITY make taxes simpler and lower for both LEADER looking for work, too many giving up after years of fruitless searching, too businesses and individuals; that we The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. many fortunate just to have a pay- should strive for a tax code that works PAUL). The majority leader is recog- check but not one large enough to keep for American families and for Amer- nized. pace with ever-rising health costs and ican businesses, rather than working f energy bills. This is the Obama legacy against them. This year, we finally on the economy. have the perfect opportunity to achieve NOMINATION OF RACHEL BRAND Over 8 long years of failed leftwing that goal. Rather than engage in blind Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, yes- policies on everything from regulations opposition for its own sake on yet an- terday the Senate voted to confirm Jef- to taxes, a Democratic administration other issue, I hope Democrats will in- frey Rosen as the Deputy Secretary of put on a virtual clinic in how not to stead take the kind of constructive ap- Transportation. In a couple of hours, get an economy moving again. No won- proach we saw the last time our coun- we will take a cloture vote to advance der the American people opted for a try enacted comprehensive tax reform. another well-qualified nominee, Rachel pro-growth direction in November. Back then, both parties recognized the

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

S2973

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The Democratic leader is recognized. case to a justifiably skeptical Amer- ican public about its version of the It was a big win for both parties, for THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS FOR SENATOR TILLIS Ronald Reagan and the Republicans, story reported by the New York Times. Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I just The President says what Comey said for Tip O’Neill and the Democrats. heard that our friend and colleague Now it is once again time we do was wrong. Prove it. It is easy to prove from North Carolina has collapsed dur- it, as long as there are tapes or tran- something about the issue, and I would ing a race in DC and is receiving med- hope our Democratic colleagues will scripts of what happened. If the Presi- ical attention. Until we hear further dent is right, he will have no problem once again work on a bipartisan basis news, our hearts will be in our mouths, toward that end. This has been a grow- releasing memos, tapes, or transcripts hoping for the best. Our thoughts and that corroborate his story. But if he ing problem for a number of years now. prayers, as a Senate family, are with The American people deserve a tax sys- fails to release them, the American the junior Senator from North Carolina public will justifiably tend to side with tem that allows them to keep more of and his family. their hard-earned money, that empow- Mr. Comey, not what the President had RUSSIA INVESTIGATION ers them to invest in their futures, and to say, particularly in light of so much actually makes it easier to succeed Mr. President, on a different subject, backtracking, backsliding, and factual rather than harder. the events of the last 2 weeks have fabrication in this White House. We have to get this accomplished be- shaken my confidence in this adminis- Finally, the events of this past week cause Americans have waited long tration’s competence and credibility. only heighten the need for a special enough for an economy that finally There has been revelation after revela- prosecutor who is truly independent to lives up to its potential and finally al- tion, allegation after allegation of mis- run the Department of Justice’s inves- lows them to realize theirs as well. conduct on the part of the President tigation into potential collusion be- I appreciate the House under Speaker and his team. In the past 2 days, it has tween the Trump campaign and Russia. reached new heights. The American people must have faith RYAN’s leadership for the role it is playing in these efforts. That work The President, according to reports in the integrity and impartiality of continues now with a Ways and Means in the Washington Post and the New this investigation. We have learned, if Committee hearing dedicated to tax re- York Times, may have divulged classi- the reporting is accurate, that the President is willing to directly inter- form tomorrow and more to follow in fied information to a known adversary fere with an active investigation. coming days. and actively tried to quash an inves- Whether or not it breaks the law is not I also appreciate the good work of tigation of a close political ally. the point here. The point is, he was Members in both the House and the From the President’s own words, we already know that the Russia inves- trying to interfere with an investiga- Senate, particularly the Senate Fi- tion. How can anyone trust someone in nance Committee under Chairman tigation was on his mind when he fired Mr. Comey. We now know it may not the President’s chain of command, HATCH, who has been leading our dis- have been the first time the President someone who the President has ap- cussions. For years, the chairman has pointed, after those actions? The only been hard at work with fellow Finance has taken an action to impede an active investigation of his campaign or way out is a special prosecutor. It is Committee members on both sides of the right thing to do. the aisle on options for tax reform, and associates, if the reports in the New York Times are true. We know the President is willing to I am confident Senator HATCH will con- fire an FBI Director because of this in- tinue to lead the way on these efforts Concerns about our national security, the rule of law, the independence vestigation, in his own words. It makes in the days and months ahead. all the sense in the world to have a spe- The task before us is certainly a sig- of our Nation’s highest law enforcement agencies are mounting in this cial prosecutor who can be fired only nificant one, but I am confident we are for cause to lead the Russia investiga- land. The stated explanations for these up to the challenge because we know tion. That would help protect the in- events from the White House have been how important it is for us to get this tegrity of the investigation by insu- porous, shifting, and all too often con- done, and we know how long overdue lating it from a White House, which at tradictory. this is as well. the very minimum, is overreaching. The country is being tested in un- f Given the circumstances, these re- precedented ways. What is now requests are reasonable. They are mod- RESERVATION OF LEADER TIME quired are the facts and impartial in- est. I hope—I really pray—that my The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under vestigations into these very serious friends on the other side of the aisle the previous order, the leadership time matters. The White House should make will see that now is the time to put is reserved. available to the Intelligence Commit- party considerations aside and do what tees the transcripts and any related f is right for our country. I know that summaries of the Oval Office meeting several of my colleagues—Senators CONCLUSION OF MORNING between President Trump and the Rus- from Maine, Tennessee, Arizona—have BUSINESS sian Foreign Minister and Ambassador. expressed concerns. A few have gone The PRESIDING OFFICER. Morning We can then assess exactly what was further and endorsed some of the ac- business is closed. said and understand the consequences tions I have mentioned. It is a good of any intelligence that was shared f first step, but it is not enough. In the with the Russians. past 24 hours, there has been more EXECUTIVE SESSION On the topic of Mr. Comey, if the movement among Republicans in the President has tapes of his conversation House than here in the Senate. The with Mr. Comey, we ought to be able to Senate, by its traditions, should be EXECUTIVE CALENDAR review those tapes as well to see if the leading this effort, not following. More The PRESIDING OFFICER. Under President pressured the FBI Director of my Republican friends should join the previous order, the Senate will pro- to shut down an active investigation. the Senators from Maine, Tennessee, ceed to executive session to resume The Times reported that Mr. Comey and Arizona in speaking out about consideration of the Brand nomination, kept contemporaneous memos of his these events first but, far more impor- which the clerk will report. conversation with the President, and tantly, helping us get to the bottom of The assistant bill clerk read the Mr. Comey has a reputation for accu- them in an impartial, trusted, and re- nomination of Rachel L. Brand, of racy in those memos. Those memos spected way. Iowa, to be Associate Attorney Gen- should also be provided to the congres- To my friends on the other side of eral. sional Intelligence and Judiciary Com- the aisle: America needs you; America

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:09 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.002 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2975 needs you now. America needs you to Children’s Health Insurance Program America, and the congressional district help pressure the Deputy Attorney for healthcare. That is one out of five I represented basically was smaller cit- General to name a special prosecutor people in my State who need these pro- ies—no more than 100,000 population at to compel this White House to turn grams to have basic health insurance the time—with a lot of smaller towns. over the transcripts and tapes to Con- for themselves and their children. I can’t tell you the pride those commu- gress, to demonstrate that the Con- This includes 300,000 Illinois seniors nities take in downstate Illinois in gress the American people elected, and people with disabilities, 650,000 who their hospitals. Some of those hospitals Democrats and Republicans, can come were recently added as part of the Af- are a lifeline—the only source of together to do the right thing when it fordable Care Act. It also includes 1.5 healthcare for miles around. They are matters most. I repeat to all of my col- million children. Half of all the kids in great employers. They bring in medical leagues: History is watching. Illinois are enrolled in Medicaid and specialists who are paid good salaries This is not a casual or usual time. As the CHIP program, which in Illinois is by local standards. great as the desire would be to repeal called ALL Kids. The Illinois Hospital Association is ObamaCare or do tax reform, the very Nationwide, the Medicaid Program dead-set against what the House Re- faith in the institutions of government helps pay for two out of three seniors publicans did in passing their repeal of now are being tested. They have been in their nursing homes. It pays for the Affordable Care Act. They have tested in the past. This is not the first about half of all children born in this told us that Illinois stands to lose up to time in American history they have country. It is the primary payer of all 60,000 healthcare jobs because of that been tested, but in the past, there have mental health and opioid addiction vote in the U.S. House of Representa- been people who rose above party, rose treatment. It provides healthcare to 25 tives. Of course, that means that for above an immediate interest to defend percent of people in rural communities. many of the people who count on these rural hospitals, even inner city hos- the needs of the Republic. Is it going to It pays for special education in nearly pitals in Chicago, those services are happen now? half of all school districts and provides History will judge on whether this critical support for veterans with going to be curtailed and denied. When I sit down with people like Ed Congress and these Senators have been chronic conditions. Curtis, who is the president of Memo- able to do what so many Senators be- What does the House of Representa- tives Affordable Care Act repeal do to rial Medical Center in Springfield and fore us, Democrats and Republicans, speaks for Illinois hospital administra- have done in the past: Put country the programs I have just described? It ends the expansion of Medicaid. It tors across the State—he tells me the above party. Whether we have decided devastating impact it will have when to act as an appropriate check and bal- would eliminate coverage for 650,000 people in the State of Illinois. Think Medicaid coverage is eliminated and ance as the Founders intended or sick people still show up for care. They whether we will let this continue, his- about that. We had seven of our Repub- lican Congressmen vote for a program will be taken care of; their expenses tory will judge us all. Whether we de- will be shifted to other people. That is that will eliminate health insurance cide to act in the way that is appro- the way it used to be before the Afford- under Medicaid for 650,000 people in my priate, history will judge us. Whether, able Care Act, before Medicaid ex- State and cut $840 billion in Federal in this moment of trial, the Senate is panded and gave these individuals in Medicaid funding. Well, if they are able to rise above partisanship and low-income situations basic health in- going to cut this money for Medicaid achieve statesmanship, again, history surance. will judge us. funding, what are they going to do with Why would Republicans in the House I yield the floor. it? The House knew exactly what to do of Representatives want to have such a I suggest the absence of a quorum. with it: They give it back in tax breaks devastating negative impact on Med- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The to the wealthiest people in America. Is icaid? So they can give tax cuts to clerk will call the roll. there justice in that decision? Is it too wealthy people? That, to me, is inex- The assistant bill clerk proceeded to much to ask that those of us who are plicable. call the roll. better off in life pay a little more in The Illinois Hospital Association Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I ask taxes so that those who are struggling speaks across our State for those who unanimous consent that the order for have basic healthcare? I don’t think so, really care about those great institu- the quorum call be rescinded. but those who voted for the Republican tions, but they are not alone in oppos- The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. COT- House plan do. The bill cuts healthcare ing this bill. The Illinois Nurses Asso- TON). Without objection, it is so or- for struggling families, women, seniors, ciation opposes it, as do the Illinois pe- dered. and children in order to give a tax diatricians and the Illinois Medical So- Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I ask break to the wealthiest people in ciety. Why does every medical advo- unanimous consent that the time dur- America. cacy group in Illinois oppose this bill, ing the quorum call be charged equally Illinois would lose $40 billion over the this so-called Republican reform of our to both sides. next decade, and 3 million people would healthcare system? Because they know The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without be at risk of losing their care. Abso- it moves in the wrong direction. It objection, it is so ordered. lutely no one believes Illinois is going eliminates healthcare coverage instead Mr. SCHUMER. Mr. President, I sug- to magically come up with $40 billion of expanding it. It makes healthcare gest the absence of a quorum. to fill this Medicaid shortfall. I doubt too expensive and out of reach for peo- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The many other States will be able to ei- ple who are not lucky enough to have clerk will call the roll. ther. With funding cuts this dramatic, it at work and not wealthy enough to The assistant bill clerk proceeded to even Illinois’s Republican Governor buy it on their own. It moves in the call the roll. spoke out against the House action re- wrong direction. It is not a solution to Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask pealing the Affordable Care Act. He any problem; it is a new and even unanimous consent that the order for said it is going to force us to make sig- worse problem than the ones we faced the quorum call be rescinded. nificant changes in healthcare in Illi- in the past. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without nois. He would have to decide who gets Remember when Candidate Donald objection, it is so ordered. healthcare and who doesn’t. He would Trump tweeted in May of 2015: ‘‘I was Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask have to decide whether healthcare the first and only potential GOP can- unanimous consent to speak as in services are just too expensive to didate to state there would be no cuts morning business. cover. to Social Security, Medicare, and Med- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without Hospitals, too, would be devastated icaid’’? Then he tweeted in July of objection, it is so ordered. by the proposed Medicaid cuts. I was 2015—‘‘The Republicans who want to HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION born and raised in downstate Illinois. cut Social Security and Medicaid are Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, more It doesn’t look at all like the city of wrong,’’ said Candidate Trump. He was than 3 million Illinoisans—about 20 Chicago. I am proud to represent that right, but now he supports this bill percent of the people in my State—cur- city. I enjoyed being there and being a which dramatically cuts Medicaid cov- rently depend on Medicaid and the part of it. I grew up in smalltown erage across America.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:09 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.004 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2976 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 What is going to happen to the elder- Mr. President, before I yield, I ask possible to defend on moral grounds ly in nursing homes who, despite all unanimous consent that the time dur- but also is hard to defend based on na- their Social Security payments and de- ing quorum calls until 12 noon today be tional security grounds as well. spite all of their Medicaid reimburse- charged equally to both sides. Let’s be honest about what is hap- ment, still don’t have enough resources The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without pening here. The Saudis are delib- for the basic care they need to stay objection, it is so ordered. erately trying to create a famine inside alive? When they cut back on that Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I sug- Yemen in order to essentially starve Medicaid coverage, what happens to gest the absence of a quorum. the Yemenis to the negotiating table. them? What do their families do to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Saudi Deputy Crown Prince Muham- make up the difference? Reach into clerk will call the roll. mad bin Salman said: their savings? Bring mom home from The senior assistant legislative clerk Time is on our side. Being patient is in our the nursing home in the hopes that proceeded to call the roll. interest. We have the supplies and we have the logistics and high morale. The enemy they can take care of her in their own Mr. MURPHY. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for does not have supplies and funds and is impa- home? Those are choices no family tient. Time is on our side and we will exploit should face and no family need face. the quorum call be rescinded. the time to serve our interests. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. SUL- I hope the Senate will show the cour- What are the Saudis doing to try to LIVAN). Without objection, it is so or- age and leadership on a bipartisan exploit this question of time and sup- dered. basis to say no to this terrible bill that plies? First, they are coming directly passed the U.S. House of Representa- YEMEN after the main port city, which brings tives just 2 weeks ago. We need to put Mr. MURPHY. Mr. President, col- 70 percent of food into Yemen and together a bill that expands the cov- leagues, I am very pleased to be joined about 80 percent of all of the oil. That erage of health insurance, gives people on the floor today by Senator YOUNG. port city is called Hodeidah. more peace of mind; a bill that address- We are both members of the Foreign Senator YOUNG has been very good in es some of the built-in challenges we Relations Committee, and both have an meetings to draw issue with what is be- had with the Affordable Care Act, interest in Middle East security. We lieved to be deliberate targeting by the which is far from perfect. There are have joined together on the floor today Saudis of the cranes and infrastructure things we can do to improve it. to give remarks and perhaps have a in this port which allow for the sup- We need to do something about the short colloquy about a humanitarian plies to come off of boats and move cost of pharmaceutical drugs. The cur- crisis that is unfolding before our eyes into these desperately, desperately rent law doesn’t really affect that. in the Middle East. needy areas of the country. They are out of control at this point. Today, inside the country of Yemen— Second, they are requiring an addi- Secondly, I think we ought to offer a a country that, frankly, not a lot of tional screening process for this hu- public option. There ought to be a our constituents give much thought manitarian aid above and beyond the Medicare-type program available to—every 10 minutes a child under the one the United Nations has put into across the United States for those who age of 5 is dying due to preventable place. The United Nations is vetting wish it. Medicare enjoys a very positive causes. Today, 18 million Yemeni civil- supply ships coming in to Hodeidah to reputation in America for good reason. ians—two thirds of the entire popu- make sure there is really food and aid Most Americans would feel honored lation of this country—cannot survive on these ships, not weapons, and it is and happy to be protected by a Medi- without humanitarian or protection working. But the Saudis are putting an care-type program. support, and 7 million of those are on additional process on top that is adding We also need to go to those premiums what we would call a starvation diet, up to a month from the time the aid that are too high and ask why. In many which means that on a daily basis they gets off the ship and into the country. cases, there are individuals who are don’t know where their next meal is Between that and the military cam- buying health insurance from very nar- coming from. They don’t have enough paign targeting the port and its infra- row pools of people who are older and food to eat in order to remain healthy. structure, this has essentially resulted sicker. We need to expand that pool so Three million have already fled their in an effective blockade being put in it is real insurance, and we can bring homes because of the violence that has and around Hodeidah, such that hu- those premiums down. There are ways been caused by a civil war—that both manitarian support cannot effectively to do that. Senator YOUNG and I will talk about— get into the country. But that is just There are many things we can do inside their country and the humani- the beginning. with reforming the Affordable Care tarian catastrophe that has resulted The Saudi bombing campaign has de- Act, but what the House of Representa- from that civil war. liberately targeted roads and bridges tives did, what some want to do, is just This is one of four current famines throughout the country, many of them repeal it and walk away. It would be that exists in the world today. But I in and around north Yemen. There are devastating to the women in America would argue that this particular hu- reports that the bombers have engaged who rely on Medicaid to pay for their manitarian crisis is in some ways the in something called double tapping, delivery expenses, as well as prenatal most relevant to the discussions we which is where you hit a humani- and postnatal care. It would be dev- will have here in the Senate because tarian—a civilian—asset. You wait astating to seniors who are in nursing the United States is participating in until the workers come to try to ad- homes and are dependent on Medicaid the military campaign that is, in fact, dress that first strike, and then you hit supplements and for those who are dis- causing in part this humanitarian cri- it a second time to take out the civil- abled with chronic conditions and have sis. ians who have responded to the emer- to turn to Medicaid just to make sure The United States is an active partic- gency. This isn’t just my opinion of the they can maintain their lifestyle and ipant with a Saudi-led military cam- situation. Representations have been still be productive, happy, and safe. paign seeking to regain control of made by multiple aid organizations on These are the elements and these are Yemen from a group called the the ground, and, more importantly, by the costs we would have to charge if we Houthis, who overran the capital and U.S. officials who have been embedded are not careful. now control large portions of the coun- with the coalition. Wouldn’t it be great, wouldn’t it be try. This is a quote from Dafna Rand, the terrific, wouldn’t it be a headliner to We, of course, are allies of Saudi Ara- former Deputy Assistant Secretary of say that Democrats and Republicans bia. The President will be visiting State who was in charge of the Saudi came together in the U.S. Senate to Saudi Arabia very soon to solidify that coalition portfolio at State: make the Affordable Care Act better, alliance. But it is time we started ask- In 2015, the U.S. Government offered tech- to make sure there was more acces- ing some really hard questions about nical training on cyber, ballistic missiles, border security, counterterrorism, and mari- sible, affordable, quality coverage for the conduct of the Saudi campaign in- time security, [and] the precision guided mu- more Americans? I think that is why side Yemen and whether we are, in nitions were transferred in 2015 on the hopes we were elected, and I hope we can fact, helping to create a humanitarian that they would enable better and more pre- achieve that goal. catastrophe on the grounds that is im- cise targeting by the coalition of the targets

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:09 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.006 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2977 itself. [But instead,] what we have seen since plies can flow into that country to try United Nations calls the situation in is not an improvement in the targeting, and to address this unfolding famine and Yemen the largest humanitarian crisis the issue itself is the target selection. It is humanitarian catastrophe. We can be in the world. According to their Office not the precision of the target itself, but it allies with the Saudis. We can be mili- for the Coordination of Humanitarian is the choice of targets and adherence to the no-strike list. tary allies with the Saudis. But they Affairs, Yemen has almost 19 million have to understand and their partners people in need of humanitarian or pro- That is a really important state- need to understand that this humani- tection assistance, including approxi- ment, a really important sentence, be- tarian nightmare inside Yemen is both mately 10 million who require imme- cause what is happening is that the immoral—to participate in a campaign diate assistance to save their lives or United States is telling the coalition: that perpetuates that kind of humani- to sustain their lives. What are the civilian targets you tarian crisis—but it also, in the end, This is an urgent matter, which is should stay away from, so the humani- doesn’t benefit the long-term security why I am so glad we have the leader- tarian aid can move into the country? of the United States or our partners in ship of Senator MURPHY on this matter The coalition is deliberately ignoring the coalition. and some of my other colleagues on that advice. It is not a matter of mis- So we come down to the floor today various fronts. This is why I led a 10– takes being made on the ground, to try to explain to our colleagues Member letter to Secretary Tillerson though there have been mistakes. It is what is happening on the ground and to on March 23 calling for a diplomatic also a matter of a no-strike list being see if there is a bipartisan way for us surge to address the political obstacles ignored. to have a policy that brings significant preventing the delivery of humani- I mention that this is not just about relief to the suffering of the Yemeni tarian aid. I note that Senator MURPHY the millions and millions of Yemenis people and strengthens our national se- joined me on that letter, which I per- who are starving today because of this curity in the region. sonally hand-delivered to Secretary civil war. It is also a question of With that, I notice Senator YOUNG is Tillerson. It is also why I raised the whether this is accruing to the U.S. na- going to say a few words, and then I issue with Ambassador Haley in New tional security interests. Again, I am think we will engage in a colloquy. York City. It is why I introduced a res- speaking just for myself on this mat- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- olution on April 5 calling for the very ter. ator from Indiana. same thing. Senators CARDIN, BOOZ- We are allies of the Saudis, and there Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I am MAN, COONS, GARDNER, and RUBIO is no doubt that an Iranian proxy state pleased to join Senator MURPHY to dis- joined that resolution. inside Yemen presents a threat to the cuss the importance of this humani- Throughout this process, rather than Saudi State. There is no doubt that tarian crisis in Yemen. As he so co- just studying the problem, I—working Houthis have been launching attacks gently emphasized, this is, at once, a with my colleagues—have tried to into Saudi Arabia. This is a real secu- humanitarian crisis and also a security focus on tangible steps we can take to rity threat for our allies. But we do crisis in the region and beyond. save lives and address this very trou- have to acknowledge that there are I am a new member of the Senate bling national security situation. For other players that exist inside Yemen Foreign Relations Committee, and I that reason, on April 27, joined by Sen- today. It is not just the Houthis and have to say that I have quickly come ator MURPHY and several other col- those Yemeni forces supported by the to admire Senator MURPHY for his leagues, I sent a letter to the incoming Saudis. There is also al-Qaida—a forceful advocacy of our values of uni- Saudi Ambassador. Noting the impor- branch of al-Qaida we know well be- versal human rights and of American tant security partnership between the cause it has traditionally been the international leadership. So I com- United States and Saudi Arabia and piece of al-Qaida that has the most ad- mend him for his leadership on this Saudi Arabia’s essential role as a re- vanced threats to the U.S. homeland— issue in particular. gional leader and an ally and a partner, and ISIS, which is growing inside I share many of the concerns articu- I asked Riyadh to consider five specific Yemen. They have taken advantage of lated by Senator MURPHY with regard steps related to Yemen that would pre- this civil war to fill in the ungovern- to the situation in Yemen and the vent thousands or even millions of ad- able spaces. Saudi-led coalition there in that coun- ditional people from starving there. Recently, with the help of the UAE, try. Before getting into the specific sit- There is no doubt that the Houthis we have begun to hit back against al- uation in Yemen, however, I think it is and the Iranians bear a very large por- Qaida and ISIS inside Yemen. But for a important to step back and look at the tion of the blame for this whole situa- portion of time, they controlled a size- big picture. tion. I asked our ally Saudi Arabia to able amount of territory and revenue The world currently confronts hu- take these steps because the United inside that country. ISIS is growing as manitarian crises of a magnitude we States has a valuable security relation- well. haven’t seen in many, many years. ship with Saudi Arabia and because we As a group of Yemeni Americans told Parts of Nigeria, Somalia, South can oppose Iran’s activities in Yemen me in my office about a year ago, to Sudan, and Yemen are all in famine or while ending unnecessary delays in the Yemenis the bombing campaign is not prefamine stages. According to the delivery of desperately needed humani- perceived as a Saudi bombing cam- United Nations, 20 million people are tarian assistance. These two goals are paign; it is seen as a U.S. bombing at risk of starvation within the next not mutually exclusive. campaign or, at the very least, a U.S.- few months in these four countries. I didn’t receive a satisfactory re- Saudi bombing campaign. The Director-General of the Inter- sponse, so I subsequently raised these So when responsibility inside Yemen national Committee of the Red Cross issues with the Saudi Foreign Minister is allotted and attributed for this star- appeared before our Senate Foreign Re- in a meeting on Capitol Hill. In that vation campaign, it is placed upon the lations Committee just weeks ago, and meeting, I cited the fact—confirmed United States, as well as on Saudi Ara- he called the crises ‘‘one of the most again by the administration within the bia. We have to think about what that critical humanitarian issues to face last week—that the Saudi-led coalition means, given the fact that there is the mankind since the end of the Second continues to impose significant delays potential for millions of Yemenis to be World War.’’ He warned that ‘‘we are at on the delivery of humanitarian aid to radicalized in a place with very sophis- the brink of a humanitarian mega-cri- the port of Hodeidah on the Red Sea. ticated radical infrastructure. This is a sis unprecedented in recent history.’’ Again, this is important because the real national security concern for the Each of these crises are unique. They port of Hodeidah processes roughly 70 United States. have their unique man-made causes. to 80 percent of Yemen’s food and other I think it is time for us to draw a But in each case, the crises are pre- critical imports. I mentioned to the hard line with this coalition and say ventable. They have been exacerbated Foreign Minister the U.S.-funded that we will not continue to support it by war and restrictions on humani- cranes for the port of Hodeidah that if there is not a real commitment made tarian access. Now, they are com- would dramatically improve the ability to change the way the targeting hap- plicated. The situation in Yemen is to offload humanitarian supplies at pens and to make sure that relief sup- certainly a complicated one. But the that port. I expressed concerns to the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:09 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.008 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2978 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 Foreign Minister about the humani- Mr. MURPHY. Mr. President, I thank sometimes, in my opinion, a bit over- tarian impact of an attack on the port my friend from Indiana. I think he played by some foreign policy thinkers, of Hodeidah. Yet, as the suffering of walked through his thoughtful ap- but it is real. the Yemeni people continues and even proach to this issue, which has led him To your second point in answer to my worsens, these issues regretfully re- to cosponsor this resolution placing question, Senator YOUNG, that is, to main unresolved. these very commonsense conditions my mind, also a likely result of a deep- According to the administration— upon the transfer of further munitions. ening of the military conflict. If the confirmed again this morning—the I might ask him a question. In his Houthis had nowhere to turn, then the Saudi-led coalition continues to be re- list of steps he has asked the Saudis to calculation might be different, but be- sponsible for an average of 16 days of take—I have joined him in that letter, cause the Iranians are there as a sup- additional delays to humanitarian as have many of our colleagues— port system to lean on, a continued shipments into the port of Hodeidah amongst them is a commitment to not military campaign against Hodeidah after vessels are cleared by the United take military action against the port would push them deeper into a corner Nations Verification and Inspection of Hodeidah. and just broaden the scope of the mili- Mechanism for Yemen. Think about it. We both met with the Foreign Min- tary conflict. Your children are starving to death. ister, who talked about the need to use There ultimately has to be a political Perhaps your entire village is starving increased military pressure inside resolution here, and by simply upping to death. And you have a delay of an Yemen backed by U.S. participation in the military ante and continuing the additional 16 days in humanitarian the coalition to try to draw the humanitarian crisis, you get further shipments. Think of the impact that Houthis to the table. We have both ex- away from that political negotiating has on security in the region as des- pressed reservations about the effec- table rather than closer to it. perate people are forced to take des- tiveness of that tactic, and we have Mr. YOUNG. Indeed. The last thing perate measures to associate them- something to say about it because none we want to do is to exacerbate a situa- selves with bad actors in the area. It is of this can occur without U.S. military tion where we already have 10 million certainly troubling to me. support. desperate people on the cusp of starva- Can the Senator talk a little bit For that reason, I have decided to co- tion or passing away on account of a about our joint fears or his personal sponsor Senator MURPHY’s legislation, lack of medical supplies. S.J. Res. 40. Before the United States fears about a major new campaign on We need assistance here, which is can transfer air-to-ground munitions this port that brings in so much of this why it is important for the President to Saudi Arabia, the legislation re- aid and how, in the end, that really to elevate the importance of this issue quires the President of the United doesn’t further the goals of the coali- in his conversation with the Saudis States to make a number of certifi- tion, the United States being amongst during his coming visit, and I believe cations. One of those includes a certifi- the partners? he will do so. I believe he will do so be- cation that Saudi Arabia and its coali- Mr. YOUNG. It is a critical question, cause the international community, tion partners are making demonstrable and it is one I have been asking so NGOs, understand the importance of efforts to facilitate the flow of critical many stakeholders involved in this this. Many at the State Department humanitarian aid and commercial issue. No one has presented to me per- and the U.S. Agency for International goods. I don’t believe the President suasive evidence indicating that a Development have spoken about what a could credibly make that assertion Saudi-led attack on the port would re- serious crisis this is. And we don’t until the Saudis take some of the steps sult in defeat of the Houthis-Saleh want to be shortsighted with respect to I have called for. bloc. No one has presented to me evi- what a bombing of the port could cata- As President Trump prepares his dence that I find compelling that that lyze. visit to Saudi Arabia, I urge him to action would even force the Houthis raise these critical issues with the bloc to the negotiating table. We also need to recognize that there Saudi Government. I urge our Presi- The onus ought to be on those who are other players in the Saudi coalition dent to emphasize that these are hu- might take a military action—which that can be constructive as well. The manitarian and national security would exacerbate the worst humani- Emirates, I would note, have shown a issues that are priorities of the Amer- tarian crisis in the world—to present willingness to be helpful on a couple of ican people. I urge the administration that evidence. I have asked for it. I different fronts. to ask the Saudi Government to take haven’t received it. I had the opportunity to visit with the following concrete actions: First, I think it is just as likely that an at- the Crown Prince yesterday and re- renounce any intention to conduct a tack would push the Houthis, as I al- ceived his assurance that he would military operation against the port of luded to earlier, into further alignment seek to resolve without delay a situa- Hodeidah; second, redouble efforts to with and dependence on the Iranians, tion related to the forward stationing achieve a diplomatic solution; third, with whom they are allied. That is the of inspectors in his country so that end any delays to the delivery of hu- exact opposite of what we are trying to they can pre-inspect cargo before it manitarian aid caused by the Saudi-led accomplish in the region, as the Ira- goes into the port of Hodeidah, and coalition; and fourth, permit the deliv- nians continue to spread their influ- that would expedite the process and ery of much needed U.S. funded cranes ence and their terroristic activities help mitigate a lot of the suffering that to the port of Hodeidah that would per- across the Middle East. So this is not is occurring. Also, I had an opportunity mit the quicker delivery of food and in the interests, as I see it, based on all to discuss with the Crown Prince this medicine. the evidence available, of the United issue of four cranes. U.S. taxpayers I have said it before: With more than States, UAE, or Saudi Arabia, and it paid for these cranes. I mentioned 10 million Yemenis requiring imme- would result in both a humanitarian them in my prepared remarks earlier. diate humanitarian assistance, there is catastrophe and exacerbate the na- And I have heard from the Crown no time to waste. I stand ready to work tional security situation. Prince; he made a commitment there with our Saudi partners to fight Iran’s Mr. MURPHY. I thank Senator as well. So I am grateful for his com- malign influence and to take these spe- YOUNG for making it clear in his pre- mitment, and I look forwarding to fol- cific steps to begin to address the cata- pared remarks that while we are focus- lowing up with the UAE Government strophic humanitarian situation in ing on the Saudis because we are part on this front. They are good allies to Yemen. of this coalition, the Houthis do not the United States. I again thank Senator MURPHY for have clean hands here either. Part of Mr. MURPHY. It goes without saying his leadership and for the opportunity the reason humanitarian supplies have that it is in no one’s interests in the re- to join him on the floor today. I look a hard time getting to places that need gion for this civil war to continue at forward to working together again in them is because there are roadblocks its current pace. So this is an impor- the future. put up by the Houthis as well. And tant moment at the beginning of a new The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- there is this known connection be- administration, with a pending arms ator from Connecticut. tween the Houthis and the Iranians— sale on the table with the Saudis, to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:09 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.009 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2979 use that transition moment and the le- private sector, if we noticed from her Mr. ISAKSON. Madam President, I verage that exists with this new pro- resume that she had actually worked ask unanimous consent that the order posal for major arms sales to the as a counsel, as a lawyer, in the White for the quorum call be rescinded. Saudis to make sure we get this right. House, if we saw she had clerked for a The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mrs. I think there is nothing political Supreme Court Justice, Justice An- ERNST). Without objection, it is so or- about this. We all join together in try- thony Kennedy—each Justice of the dered. ing to abate humanitarian crises and United States, I think, has four law CLOTURE MOTION famines around the world, and we all clerks every year. I don’t know how The PRESIDING OFFICER. Pursuant want a policy that is going to bring an many tens of thousands of lawyers and to rule XXII, the Chair lays before the end to this civil war because, as I said, law students apply, but to be chosen is Senate the pending cloture motion, it is just as important to remember one of the highest honors you can re- which the clerk will state. that the most immediate enemies of ceive as a young lawyer. If I told you The bill clerk read as follows: the United States—those terrorist this person who applied for a job in CLOTURE MOTION groups who want to do harm to us— government used to work at the De- find their most fertile ground today in- partment of Justice as Principal Dep- We, the undersigned Senators, in accordance with the provisions of rule XXII of the side Yemen. The sooner we can put an uty Assistant Attorney General in the Standing Rules of the Senate, do hereby end to this civil war and be able to Office of Legal Policy, if I told you she move to bring to a close debate on the nomi- have a central government structure had also worked for one of the most nation of Rachel L. Brand, of Iowa, to be As- that spreads across the scope of the prestigious law firms in the country, sociate Attorney General. country, the quicker we can all be fo- Wilmer, Cutler, Pickering, Hale & Mitch McConnell, John Boozman, Jeff cused on trying to eliminate the ISIS Dorr—I remember them as Wilmer, Flake, Thom Tillis, Richard Burr, Mike and al-Qaida presence—AQAP, as we Cutler, but they have changed their Crapo, John Barrasso, Chuck Grassley, refer to them—in Yemen from that name since then. They have been Mike Rounds, John Kennedy, John Thune, Pat Roberts, James E. Risch, battlespace. around forever. If I told you all of Orrin G. Hatch, Shelley Moore Capito, I say to Senator YOUNG, I don’t know those things, I think any reasonable Lindsey Graham, John Cornyn. if you have closing remarks, but I ap- person would say: Wow, let’s hire her The PRESIDING OFFICER. By unan- preciate your willingness to speak up here immediately. Let’s do it before imous consent, the mandatory quorum and your leadership here, and I hope we she finds another position. Well, that call has been waived. can get others on both sides of the aisle person has applied for a job in govern- The question is, Is it the sense of the to propose and support these common- ment. Her name is Rachel Brand. She Senate that debate on the nomination sense conditions upon this new mili- has been nominated by President of Rachel L. Brand, of Iowa, to be Asso- tary transfer so that we can get the sit- Trump to be Associate Attorney Gen- ciate Attorney General, shall be uation right inside Yemen. eral. brought to a close? Mr. YOUNG. I say to the Senator, let That is a position that is vitally im- The yeas and nays are mandatory me end by reiterating my gratitude to portant within the Department of Jus- under the rule. you, of course, for your exceptional tice. It is responsible for the oversight The clerk will call the roll. leadership, for walking points on this of the Civil Division, the Civil Rights The bill clerk called the roll. issue, and I look forward to our contin- Division, the Office on Violence Mr. CORNYN. The following Senator ued work together. Against Women, and many other im- is necessarily absent: the Senator from I thank all our colleagues who have portant components of the Department North Carolina (Mr. TILLIS). engaged on this matter. And I, of of Justice. I think no matter what po- course, before the U.S. Senate here, litical party you happen to be in or Further, if present and voting, the want to invite others to engage in this. whatever your political persuasion, we Senator from North Carolina (Mr. If they have questions with respect to can all agree that right now it is par- TILLIS) would have voted ‘‘yea’’. this matter, which is critical for our ticularly important not only to have a Mr. DURBIN. I announce that the national security, I know they can Department of Justice that is fully Senator from Hawaii (Ms. HIRONO) is reach out to the Senator or me, and it staffed but to have it fully staffed with necessarily absent. is imperative that we send a respectful extraordinarily qualified people whom The PRESIDING OFFICER. Are there message to the administration that we every American can look at and go: any other Senators in the Chamber de- think this is something that needs to Wow, is she qualified. I am so pleased siring to vote? be addressed in the near term. she is working for the Federal Govern- The yeas and nays resulted—yeas 51, I have nothing else to say. ment and my tax dollars are being well nays 47, as follows: Mr. MURPHY. Mr. President, I sug- spent. [Rollcall Vote No. 130 Ex.] gest the absence of a quorum. Ms. Brand has broad experience, as I YEAS—51 The PRESIDING OFFICER. The indicated, both within the Department Alexander Fischer Murkowski clerk will call the roll. of Justice and in the private sector. As Barrasso Flake Paul The assistant bill clerk proceeded to I indicated—I am going to say it Blunt Gardner Perdue Boozman Graham Portman call the roll. again—she worked for Justice Anthony Burr Grassley Risch Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I ask Kennedy of the U.S. Supreme Court. Capito Hatch Roberts unanimous consent that the order for Wow, what an honor. She has served as Cassidy Heller Rounds the quorum call be rescinded. Cochran Hoeven Rubio Assistant Attorney General under Collins Inhofe Sasse The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without President George Bush. She has been in Corker Isakson Scott objection, it is so ordered. private practice, as I indicated. She has Cornyn Johnson Shelby (The remarks of Mr. KENNEDY per- been chief counsel for Regulatory Liti- Cotton Kennedy Strange taining to the introduction of S. 1150 Crapo Lankford Sullivan gation in the U.S. Chamber of Com- Cruz Lee Thune are printed in today’s RECORD under merce, and I could go on and on and on. Daines McCain Toomey ‘‘Statements on Introduced Bills and I fully support Ms. Brand’s nomina- Enzi McConnell Wicker Joint Resolutions.’’) tion. I sit on the Judiciary Committee, Ernst Moran Young Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, if I the committee of the Senate that vet- NAYS—47 came to you today and told you we had ted her. She is highly respected, she is Baldwin Donnelly King received a job application from some- whip smart, she is well qualified, and Bennet Duckworth Klobuchar body to work for the government, and Blumenthal Durbin Leahy she is fully prepared to hit the ground Booker Feinstein Manchin you and I looked at her job application running. That is exactly what we need. Brown Franken Markey and we saw she had graduated from I suggest the absence of a quorum. Cantwell Gillibrand McCaskill Harvard Law School, if we looked at The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Cardin Harris Menendez her job application and we saw she had clerk will call the roll. Carper Hassan Merkley Casey Heinrich Murphy worked for a Presidential campaign, if The assistant bill clerk proceeded to Coons Heitkamp Murray we saw she had practiced law in the call the roll. Cortez Masto Kaine Nelson

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:42 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.010 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2980 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 Peters Shaheen Warner tion and not just protesting the prob- According to news reports, on January Reed Stabenow Warren lem. 27, Mr. Trump invited Mr. Comey to a Sanders Tester Whitehouse Schatz Udall Wyden Thankfully, we have set a tremen- private dinner with him at the White Schumer Van Hollen dous example in Texas of how hiring House. Mr. Trump then asked Mr. NOT VOTING—2 veterans to serve as law enforcement Comey for his ‘‘loyalty,’’ but Mr. officers benefits all of our commu- Hirono Tillis Comey only promised to provide his nities. I am glad this bill will follow ‘‘honesty’’ or his ‘‘honest loyalty.’’ The PRESIDING OFFICER. On this their inspiration and help communities Why did the President allegedly ask vote, the yeas are 51, the nays are 47. across the country hire more veterans. Director Comey for his loyalty? The motion is agreed to. I said before that this legislation is On March 4, President Trump The majority whip is recognized. something everyone can agree on, in a tweeted without evidence that ‘‘how AMERICAN LAW ENFORCEMENT HEROES ACT polarized political environment, and low has President Obama gone to tap Mr. CORNYN. Madam President, I that is of course evident by the broad my phones during the very sacred elec- know people outside the beltway think bipartisan support it has received. tion process. This is Nixon/Watergate. nothing ever happens here—and cer- Let me express my gratitude to the Bad (or sick) guy!’’ On March 20, Mr. tainly that nothing ever happens on a senior Senator from Minnesota, Ms. Comey testified he has ‘‘no informa- bipartisan basis—but they would be KLOBUCHAR, as well as the senior Sen- tion’’ to support Mr. Trump’s claim. wrong on both counts. ators from Connecticut and Cali- Why did the President try to distract Last night, the Senate passed a piece fornia—all Democratic colleagues—for the public’s attention by blaming of bipartisan legislation called the being my original cosponsors on the President Obama for the Russia inves- American Law Enforcement Heroes bill. I am also grateful to my Repub- tigation? Act. It is a great example of legislation lican colleagues, including Senator On April 12, in an interview, Mr. everyone can agree on and get behind. CRUZ, as well as the junior Senator Trump said Mr. Comey ‘‘saved Hillary The main goal is to connect vet- from North Carolina and the senior Clinton’’ during the campaign and said erans—those who have served in our Senators from Iowa, Utah, and Nevada, that ‘‘it’s not too late’’ to remove Mr. military and have a passion for public for working with us on this legislation. Comey. Mr. Trump continued: ‘‘But, My friend Congressman WILL HURD service—to opportunities in State and you know, I have confidence in him. on the House side introduced the same local law enforcement. When we think We’ll see what happens, you know, it’s bill there, and I am hopeful it will pass about it, who better than our retiring going to be interesting.’’ military personnel who are accustomed sometime today so we can get this to What changed between Mr. Trump the President’s desk for his signature to wearing one uniform, moving then having confidence in Mr. Comey in without delay. into the civilian law enforcement April and firing him in May? I would also note that the American world wearing another uniform but On May 3, Mr. Comey testified before Law Enforcement Heroes Act is backed continuing their legacy of public serv- the Senate Judiciary Committee and by major law enforcement groups ice. That way, those who have volun- said ‘‘it makes me mildly nauseous to across the country, including the Fra- tarily put themselves in harm’s way to think that we might have had some im- ternal Order of Police, the Major Coun- keep the peace and promote American pact on the election.’’ ty Sheriffs of America, the Major City interests abroad and defend our home- On May 8, former Acting Attorney Chiefs Association, and the Veterans of land can continue the record of public General Sally Yates and former Direc- Foreign Wars. I have been grateful for service at home. tor of National Intelligence James their help along the way toward pas- For veterans, that can mean a re- Clapper both testified before the Judi- sage of this bill. warding job in law enforcement. I look forward to this bill becoming a ciary Committee. Through their training, experience, and law—hopefully, this week, as we con- Ms. Yates testified about the warn- sacrifice, there is no doubt that our tinue to celebrate Police Week hon- ings she gave to White House Counsel veterans are equipped with valuable oring the service of the men and Don McGahn about how National Secu- skills to keep our communities safe. By women in blue who keep our commu- rity Adviser Michael Flynn was com- prioritizing existing Federal funds for nities safe—and making it clear that promised by the Russians and was State and local law enforcement agen- this Congress cares not only about our lying to White House staff and the Vice cies to hire veterans, we can better veterans but also our law enforcement President about his conversations and serve them as they transition into ci- officials as well. interactions with the Russians. vilian life. We know that can be a chal- Madam President, I yield the floor. On May 9, we witnessed a series of lenging transition, but that is exactly The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- three letters, all dated that day. The what the American Law Enforcement ator from Maryland. first letter was from Deputy Attorney Heroes Act that we passed yesterday RUSSIA INVESTIGATION General Rod Rosenstein to Attorney does. Mr. CARDIN. Madam President, just General Jeff Sessions. The Rosenstein For State and local law enforcement last Wednesday, I spoke on the Senate letter concludes that the FBI’s reputa- groups, that means they can attract floor about the extremely suspicious tion and credibility had suffered ‘‘sub- the best qualified men and women who timing of the firing of FBI Director stantial damage’’ due to Mr. Comey’s are eager to serve their country in a James Comey by President Trump. actions during the Clinton email inves- new way. So this is really a win-win. In the past few days, President tigation. Notably, Rosenstein’s memo Fortunately, this legislation builds Trump’s actions, statements, and does not explicitly recommend Mr. on the good work already underway in changing of his story on the Comey fir- Comey’s removal. That same day, At- places like my home State of Texas. ing has only strengthened the case for torney General Sessions, who has Over the last several months, I have the appointment of a special counsel to recused himself from the Russia-Trump had a chance to visit cities and coun- investigate ties and collusion between campaign investigation, sent the ties all over the State that are actively the Trump campaign and the Russian Rosenstein letter to the White House, recruiting veterans to serve as police Government in the 2016 Presidential along with his own letter, concluding officers or sheriffs. That includes law election. Congress should also establish that ‘‘a fresh start is needed at the enforcement leaders from San Antonio an independent commission to get to leadership of the FBI.’’ Again, on the to Houston, to Fort Worth. As my col- the bottom of the Russian interference same day that Mr. Trump fired Direc- leagues may recall, following the ter- in our election. In addition, there needs tor Comey, the Trump letter includes a rible killing of five police officers and to be an independent investigation into curious aside: ‘‘I greatly appreciate shooting of seven more in Dallas, Po- whether Mr. Trump abused power and you informing me, on three separate lice Chief David Brown made an appeal played a role in obstruction of justice occasions, that I am not under inves- for people who were protesting or oth- in terms of the ongoing criminal investigation.’’ Did Director Comey really erwise concerned about the law en- tigation at the Department of Justice. give those assurances to President forcement agencies involved to sign up Let me start by going back to the be- Trump when the criminal and counter- and join them—to be a part of the solu- ginning of the Trump administration. intelligence investigations into the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:42 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.001 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2981 Trump campaign and Russia connec- my colleagues, to set up a 9/11 inde- which is trying to bring down our tions are still active and ongoing? pendent commission in order to get to democratic government, which has now At the same time, we heard from the bottom of what is happening. That been acknowledged not just by the in- White House Press Secretary Sean can be done simultaneously with the telligence community over and over Spicer and we heard from the Vice work being done by the Senate Intel- again, but their ability to try to com- President of the United States that the ligence Committee, which is important promise our system is now much better reason for the firing of Mr. Comey was work for us to do, but we also need to understood—we need to have that inde- the recommendation of the Depart- have an independent commission in pendent commission devoted to giving ment of Justice. That is what they said order to determine exactly what Russia us the recommendations to keep Amer- it was, only to find the next day Presi- was doing so we can take the necessary ica safe. dent Trump saying: steps to prevent this from occurring in I urge my colleagues to exercise that In fact, when I decided to just do it, I said the future. independent function and to set up an to myself, I said ‘‘You know, this Russian There are a lot of unanswered ques- independent commission. thing with Trump and Russia is a made-up tions. People say: Well, how can you Madam President, I suggest the ab- story, it’s an excuse by the Democrats for call for action if you don’t know all the sence of a quorum. having lost an election that they should facts? I am calling for us to know all The PRESIDING OFFICER. The have won.’’ the facts. I am calling for us to under- clerk will call the roll. Then he talked about Mr. Comey and stand exactly why on one day the The senior assistant legislative clerk said he had decided to fire him. So it White House sends out one story that proceeded to call the roll. was not the memos; it was what Mr. the Department of Justice rec- Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I ask Trump had decided. So there is a lot of ommended the firing of Mr. Comey, and unanimous consent that the order for misinformation being sent out, which then on the next day the President the quorum call be rescinded. raises a lot of questions. said: No, I decided that before I met The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. Over the weekend, former Director of with the Attorney General and the CRUZ). Without objection, it is so or- National Intelligence James Clapper Deputy Attorney General. dered. We need to understand why there was stated: NATIONAL POLICE WEEK a conversation in which Mr. Comey has I think in many ways our institutions are Mr. DONNELLY. Mr. President, I rise under assault both externally—and that’s notes that indicate Mr. Trump wanted today to honor our law enforcement of- the big news here is the Russian interference him to go easy in an investigation. ficers during National Police Week and That is a pretty serious charge. We in our election system—and I think as well to talk about the importance of sup- need to understand this information. our institutions are under assault internally. porting law enforcement, including That is why it is impossible for the De- So we have the former Director of their mental health. National Intelligence, Mr. Clapper, partment of Justice to do an inde- During National Police Week, we rec- pendent investigation. It will always be saying we have some problems inter- ognize and remember the sacrifices of suspect as to whether that investiga- nally. the law enforcement officers we lost in tion of the President of the United The only way we are going to get to the line of duty in 2016. Every day and States or the White House will have the bottom of this, the only way we are through every night in communities impact as to how that investigation is going to find out what this loyalty across Indiana and our country, law en- being done because there is already oath is all about or how Mr. Trump forcement officers are patrolling our evidence that they tried to do that pre- came to the conclusion to fire Mr. streets, arriving at the scenes of chal- Comey or, more recently, where we viously in this investigation. The law is clear; the law is clear as lenging and often traumatic incidents, hear Mr. Comey has memos of a meet- to how special prosecutors and counsel and even putting themselves in harm’s ing in which the President asked him are appointed where conflicts exist. way as they do their best to keep our to go easy on an investigation, which The Department of Justice has this au- families safe. They help ensure that could rise to obstruction of justice— thority. We know that Attorney Gen- our children can be safe at the neigh- the only way we are going to get to the eral Sessions has recused himself from borhood playground and our seniors bottom of all this is by having an inde- the Russia investigation. Deputy At- can sit peacefully on their front porch. pendent special counsel prosecutor ap- torney General Rosenstein now has the They help keep drugs off our streets, pointed by the Department of Justice. authority to make that decision. He they are called to the scenes of opioid That is what needs to be done. The should clearly make that decision, not and heroin overdoses, and they help facts need to go where they take us, because it is the right thing to do— stem the violence and crime that has but we also have to have an investiga- which it is, which it is—and we have plagued many of our communities for tion that has the credibility that it the obligation to make sure the Amer- far too long. will not be interfered with by the ican people get all the facts as to what Our law enforcement officers put on President of the United States. The happened here, but it is also the rep- the uniform every day. They head out only way to do that is by having spe- utation of the Department of Justice the door to serve us, while their family cial counsel appointed by the Depart- that is at stake. members say a prayer hoping they ment of Justice. It is the only way to I urge my colleagues to continue. I come back safely into their family’s restore the reputation of the Depart- know we will have a chance tomorrow loving arms at the end of their shift. ment of Justice. in our meeting with Mr. Rosenstein, Sadly, sometimes they do not. I might say that we also need to un- but I would urge us to listen to what In my home State of Indiana, our law derstand exactly what Russia was the American people are saying and enforcement lost one of their own last doing here in the United States. There recognize that we are an independent year when the Howard County sheriff’s are so many examples of Russia being branch of government, and one of our deputy, Carl Koontz, was shot and aggressive in our campaign. We know principal responsibilities is oversight— killed during a raid in Russiaville, IN, they wanted to discredit the American and oversight of the executive branch last March. campaign. We know they took sides in of government. I urge us to carry out Deputy Koontz was only 27 years old, favor of Mr. Trump over Mrs. Clinton. that responsibility by collectively—it in the prime of his life, and had dedi- We know they hacked information. We shouldn’t be partisan—collectively cated himself to serving and protecting know they used misinformation. We telling the Department of Justice: Get the communities he loved. He left be- know they used cyber and social media all the facts, do it in an independent hind his wife Kassie and their young in order to further their advancements. way, appoint an independent pros- son Noah. We also know they met with represent- ecutor, let the facts lead us where they Deputy Koontz’s loss was felt not atives of the Trump campaign. The are going to lead us, and let’s not pre- just in Kokomo, not just in Howard American people have a right to under- judge. But this is a serious, serious County, but in cities and towns across stand exactly what those contacts were matter. our State. He represented the very best all about. That is why I filed the reso- In order to protect ourselves from an our State has to offer. He was smart, lution, which is supported by many of aggressive enemy—and that is Russia, talented, and service driven, working

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That is at the core of what lizing peer mentoring for officer men- That we are only human. law enforcement officers strive for and tal health. Our emotional mental health heals just why it is so devastating when they are During my time in the Senate, our like a physical injury. With the proper treatment, and with time. lost in the line of duty. main legislative focus has been to im- We must provide the funding and resources While we pay our respects to those prove the availability of mental to go beyond the critical stress debriefing. we lost, it is our solemn duty to sup- healthcare services for servicemembers We must do this for our officers. port those who serve our communities and their families. We have made great Both Chief Roach’s and Sheriff today. As law enforcement officers go progress in recent years. I am proud Nielsen’s comments show us the impor- through their work, they are some- that my bipartisan Jacob Sexton Mili- tance of ending the stigma attached to times confronted with challenging or tary Suicide Prevention Act is now mental health issues. We can’t be even horrific situations. law. afraid of talking about mental health Recently, I joined with my friend and As of this September, every service- and the ways we support our law en- colleague from Indiana, Senator TODD member—Active, Reserve, or Guard—is forcement officers as they work YOUNG, to introduce the bipartisan required to have an annual mental through these challenges. Law Enforcement Mental Health and health assessment. The Law Enforce- Lebanon police officer Taylor Wellness Act. It provides tools for law ment Mental Health and Wellness Act Nielsen, who followed in the tradition enforcement agencies to help support builds upon the work our military has of her dad, Sheriff Mike Nielsen—an the mental health and wellness of our been doing to combat suicide and men- extraordinary family, serving our brave men and women. tal health challenges. State with their lives every day—was We were thankful to have the support It requires the Department of De- courageous enough to share her mental from Senators BLUNT, COONS, CORNYN, fense, the VA, and the Department of health struggles following a particu- and FEINSTEIN when we introduced the Justice to consult on military mental larly tough assignment. legislation. I am honored that Senators health practices that can be adopted by She recounted the questions that she BLUMENTHAL, BOOKER, BROWN, CRUZ, law enforcement agencies. Building on was dealing with: HATCH, KLOBUCHAR, CORTEZ MASTO, the Sexton Act that requires annual Why am I alone? Why isn’t anybody else DURBIN, and TESTER have added their mental health assessments for service- having these issues? Why can’t I get this out support in the days since. members, the Law Enforcement Mental of my head? What is wrong with me? These I say to the Presiding Officer, thank Health and Wellness Act examines if were the questions that repeatedly ran you for your support of our legislation. having annual mental health checks through my head on a daily basis last year. I am very pleased to say that our bill for law enforcement officers would help Questions that made me believe that there was something fundamentally wrong with passed the Senate unanimously late save lives. me. yesterday, and it is a major step for- When Senator YOUNG and I an- She continued: ward. I am hopeful that our friends in nounced this legislation last month, we the House of Representatives, where a had the honor of being joined by a For those of you who feel you are fighting alone, know that there is relief out there. companion piece was introduced by number of law enforcement profes- Please don’t be afraid to seek out those re- Congresswoman SUSAN BROOKS and sionals, including the Indianapolis sources. The battle will be hard, but it can Congresswoman VAL DEMINGS of Flor- chief of police, Bryan Roach. Chief be won. ida, who served as the first female chief Roach shared some of his experiences. Thanks to her strong will and the of police in Orlando before coming to He said: help of a trained therapist, Taylor was Congress—I am hopeful Congress- When I am came on, officers were taught able to handle her mental health chal- woman BROOKS and Congresswoman to be in control of their emotions. lenges. As she said, though, we have to We still teach the IMPD to be in control of DEMINGS can shepherd this bill through work together as a team to beat these that Chamber. their emotions. But if you think about the day in, day out routine of the things they issues. This legislation is also supported by participate in, and the things that they see, We will take time over Police Week a number of law enforcement organiza- and they are confronted with on a day to day to reflect on the law enforcement pro- tions, including the Indianapolis Met- basis, it is difficult sometimes to control fessionals we lost last year. As we do ropolitan Police Department, the Fra- those emotions, but they do a very good job that, it is important that we take com- ternal Order of Police, the National As- of it. monsense steps to support our law en- sociation of Police Organizations, the The problem is they take those things forcement officers. Major County Sheriffs of America, and home. The things we’re talking about are We took a major step forward with not just PTSD, but depression and anxiety. more. yesterday’s passage of the Law En- I am proud that this is a bipartisan As the chief stated, law enforcement forcement Mental Health and Wellness effort, as evidenced by the Members officers—like the rest of us—don’t just Act in the Senate. I see my colleague turn themselves off when they go supporting this legislation. It is time TODD YOUNG, who was my teammate on to get this to the President’s desk to be home. The experiences they have every that, in the Chamber as well. I am signed into law as soon as possible. day impact them and their family and hopeful it will be enacted soon so we The Law Enforcement Mental Health their friends. can bring more tools to law enforce- Sheriff Mike Nielsen of Boone Coun- and Wellness Act is about providing re- ment agencies across Indiana and our ty—located in Central Indiana, right sources to law enforcement agencies country. Congresswoman BROOKS and near Indianapolis—was also on hand that want to better protect their offi- Congresswoman DEMINGS are working that day with us to share his perspec- cers’ mental health, as well as the pro- on it right now. viders who strive to serve that unique tive. He said: After the service and sacrifices law population. It would direct the Depart- I have seen things that cannot be unseen. enforcement officers make every day, ments of Justice and Health and The brave men and women of police, fire, EMS, are all public safety officers who put they have earned the resources we Human Services to develop resources their lives on the line each and every day. have, so that we can provide the very for mental health providers to educate They endure more than anybody can imag- best to the very best. them about law enforcement culture ine, and they must deal with the stresses of Thanks again to Senator YOUNG for and evidenced-based therapies for men- life both on the job and at home. working with me on this effort, to the tal health issues common to law en- Sometimes it is really, really tough. police and sheriffs in Indiana who have forcement. It would require the Depart- Sheriff Nielsen continued: lent their support, to law enforcement ment of Justice to study the effective- We must all work hard to stop the stigma officers protecting Hoosiers as we ness of crisis hotlines for law enforce- with mental health issues. stand here at this moment.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 03:42 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.018 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2983 May God bless all of these officers, forward to continuing our work to- But it looks like this nomination and may God bless the family of Dep- gether on behalf of all Hoosiers in the somehow has become controversial. I uty Carl Koontz. May God bless Indi- future. don’t understand. Ms. Brand has a ana, and may God bless America. In fact, this legislation drew upon ef- broad range of legal experience that Mr. President, I yield back. forts undertaken by Hoosiers at the In- happens to be a broad range in both the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- dianapolis Metropolitan Police Depart- government and the private sector. ator from Indiana. ment. In 2010, Indiana’s IMPD recog- With her previous positions in the Mr. YOUNG. Mr. President, I rise to nized the need to address law enforce- White House, the Office of Legal Coun- join the senior Senator from Indiana in ment mental health and wellness by sel, and the Privacy and Civil Liberties voicing my strong support for the Law creating the Office of Professional De- Oversight Board, she has experience Enforcement Mental Health and velopment and Police Wellness. The that touches almost every part of the Wellness Act of 2017. During Police IMPD captain, Brian Nanavaty, led the Federal Government. As the Assistant Week, I wish to take a minute to thank effort to establish the office and has re- Attorney General for the Office of all of our men and women in blue who cently promoted its motto: ‘‘Healthy Legal Policy, she was a member of the stand on the frontlines to protect our Hire—Healthy Retire: Wellness is more senior management team of the De- communities. than just an annual physical.’’ In 2015, partment of Justice, working with I have four young children. Since Captain Nanavaty and the office re- components and law enforcement agen- they could barely talk, my wife and I ceived national recognition, being cies throughout the entire Justice De- taught them that if they need help, awarded the National Law Enforce- partment. Similarly, at the Privacy they should dial 911, and the police ment Officers Memorial Fund’s Annual and Civil Liberties Oversight Board, would respond. Officer Wellness Award. IMPD’s inno- Ms. Brand worked with diverse agen- Every day our law enforcement com- vation and forward thinking have in- cies to ensure that privacy and civil munities around the country live their spired police departments across the liberties are taken into account while lives to answer these calls and to help United States to follow their footsteps carrying out the important mission of our fellow citizens. Sometimes the job and undertake similar efforts to ad- protecting the Nation from terrorism. is as simple as reuniting a child with dress law enforcement mental health During Ms. Brand’s tenure in the pri- their parent at the park or at a store, and wellness. But this is just the begin- vate sector, she gained extensive liti- but other times they see horrific scenes ning of these efforts. gation management experience that that no one should have to experience Senator DONNELLY and I are proud will serve her very well as she oversees in their lifetimes or they experience that the Law Enforcement Mental the Department’s civil litigation com- traumatic stress in the performance of Health and Wellness Act has passed the ponents. their jobs. Senate and is one step closer to being She has seemingly become a little Ultimately, police officers see the signed into law, contributing to the ef- more controversial. Many of my col- best and the worst of humanity, which forts of the IMPD. leagues on the other side of the aisle can take a heavy emotional toll, but As I close, I want to recognize the have said they aren’t supporting her who is there to answer the call for help leadership of a fellow Hoosier, U.S. nomination because of the work she did when they need it after experiencing Representative SUSAN BROOKS, and her with the U.S. Chamber of Commerce. such trauma on a regular basis? colleagues in the U.S. House who intro- Those views are utterly ridiculous. So I A couple of weeks ago, Senator DON- duced this legislation. This bill has re- will take a minute to address these NELLY and I introduced the Law En- ceived bipartisan, bicameral support in concerns. forcement Mental Health and Wellness Congress, widespread support from sev- First, when she worked at the Cham- Act. This legislation is for those who eral law enforcement organizations, ber, all of her advocacy was done to answer that call. This bill works with and, frankly, support across the coun- represent the views of her client, the the relevant Federal agencies, mental try from rank-and-file Americans who U.S. Chamber. Everybody expects that health providers, and broader law en- understand that this is a problem we if you hire a lawyer, they are going to forcement communities to offer oppor- have an obligation to address. We are represent your views. We all know that tunities for care. all with you. Now we call upon all of we can’t assume an attorney person- When our police force is healthy, our colleagues in the House to act on ally believes in what they are advo- when it is strong, our communities are this important legislation and send it cating for on behalf of their client, just healthy and strong as well. That is why to the President’s desk for his signa- ask criminal defense attorneys. it is vital that we provide our Nation’s ture. Furthermore, she was not involved in law enforcement with the resources Let me finish with these words of any policy or lobbying apparatus of the they need as they put their health and heartfelt gratitude: Thank you to our Chamber. Her role there was to bring their lives on the line in order to pro- law enforcement community for always lawsuits challenging rules that the tect our communities day in and day answering the call. U.S. Chamber believed were unlawful. out. Mr. President, I suggest the absence At the same time, besides just arguing This includes supporting law enforce- of a quorum. those lawsuits, she had to file a lot of ment agencies’ efforts to protect and The PRESIDING OFFICER. The amicus briefs providing the courts with strengthen the mental health and clerk will call the roll. the views of the business community. wellness of their respective law en- The senior assistant legislative clerk During her time at the Chamber, she forcement officers. I am confident that proceeded to call the roll. challenged a handful of the thousands this bill will have a positive impact on Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I ask of regulations promulgated by Federal the mental health and wellness of law unanimous consent that the order for agencies. The arguments Ms. Brand enforcement officers across the coun- the quorum call be rescinded. made in those lawsuits or amicus briefs try. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without were generally that the agency had I look forward to the findings of objection, it is so ordered. acted beyond the scope of the author- DOJ’s collaborative reports, the effi- Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I am ity Congress had granted that par- cacy of the peer mentoring pilot pro- pleased that the Senate is considering ticular agency or had failed to follow grams, and the results of the Depart- Rachel Brand to be Associate Attorney the reasoned decisionmaking processes ment’s study into the creation of a cri- General. Ms. Brand is a native Iowan, required by the Administrative Proce- sis hotline for law enforcement offi- and I am proud to be supporting her dure Act of 1946. In many of those cers. nomination here today. She has had a cases, the courts agreed with the With that said, I thank Indiana’s sen- distinguished legal career. In fact, she Chamber that the government had ior Senator for his hard work in draft- was appointed to Senate-confirmed po- acted unlawfully. ing this legislation and allowing for my sitions by both President Bush and To summarize her work during that input and those of my colleagues. It President Obama, and both times, she time at the Chamber, Ms. Brand argued has been my pleasure to work with was confirmed by a voice vote in the that government agencies went beyond Senator DONNELLY on this, and I look Senate. the authority Congress had given

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:42 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.019 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2984 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 them. She also argued that these agen- Here is a prime example. One farm- up premiums, driving away customers, cies weren’t acting under the scope of er’s insurance premium went through and driving up the tab to the tax-pay- the congressional authority granted to the roof. It jumped 43 percent in 2017 ing public. I spoke 2 days ago about the the agency, and she argued that con- from 2016. If somebody can explain how impact of Obamacare in Iowa. Next gressional authority had to be re- that is more affordable, I have an year it is possible that 94 of our 99 spected. It seems to me that it is up to oceanfront property in my home coun- counties will not have insurance plans Congress to give these agencies more ty of Butler County, IA, to sell you. on the Obamacare exchange. authority if we think they need it. But Now, we have a chart here about an- So even if you benefit from the sub- it is not a good reason to vote against other Iowan. This constituent from sidy of ObamaCare, you are not going Ms. Brand’s nomination because she ar- Garner, IA, wrote about her financial to have an insurance company to go to. gued a very commonsense and con- hardships. She said: All of this because ObamaCare has stitutional position that Federal agen- We are going to be paying over $1,300 a overregulated, overtaxed, and oversold cies need to follow the laws of Con- month on premiums, plus a $6,000 deductible. its promises to the American people. gress. We don’t have that much longer before we ObamaCare has not healed what ails Finally, some Senators have main- qualify for Medicare, but my concern is that the U.S. healthcare system. It is time tained that they are concerned about until then, we will have to use so much of to move forward. her views on the Voting Rights Act. our hard-earned savings just to pay for I urge my colleagues to drop the par- She responded very well to that. Dur- healthcare. My fear is that those of us in the middle class will struggle with paying so tisan charade and join us for the good ing her hearing, Ms. Brand told the of the American people. I will continue committee that she shares concerns for much that it will wipe out our retirement savings accounts. coming to the floor to share how anyone who would violate the Voting ObamaCare is not working for Iowans, Rights Act and would suppress votes in Another constituent nearby Garner, in Buffalo, IA, wrote to me saying: but in the meantime, the Senate will the process of violating that act, and continue working to rescue our I am forced to pay $230 a month for a she believes ‘‘enforcement of that stat- healthcare system that is sinking ute to be a core enforcement function healthcare plan that covers nothing until I reach $11,000 in deductible. So on top of pay- under this broken law. of the civil rights division.’’ I don’t I yield the floor. know about my fellow colleagues, but I ing 100 percent of my medical bills anyway, now I have to pay for insurance I can’t use. I suggest the absence of a quorum. take her at her word that she strongly So the question is, How did we get to The PRESIDING OFFICER. The believes in voting rights. clerk will call the roll. It is more than a little puzzling, this point? Seven years ago, I stood The legislative clerk proceeded to then, that when Republicans opposed a right here on the Senate floor and pre- dicted what would happen to the cost call the roll. woman for a government position, we Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, I ask heard from the other side. The Demo- of insurance if ObamaCare passed. unanimous consent that the order for crats would always bring up gender Let’s take a walk down memory lane for a moment. Here is what I said Octo- the quorum call be rescinded. politics. But when they oppose a The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without woman for a position, that is somehow ber 2009: objection, it is so ordered. OK. I don’t see how they can expect to And while some of the supporters of these (The remarks of Mr. THUNE per- have it both ways. partisan bills may not want to tell their containing to the introduction of S. 1144 I believe Ms. Brand will be a superb stituents, we all know that as national are printed in today’s RECORD under Associate Attorney General—the first spending on healthcare increases, American female in this role, I might add—and families will bear the burden in the form of ‘‘Statements on Introduced Bills and that she will serve the office with very higher premiums. So, let me be very clear. Joint Resolutions.’’) As a result of the current pending healthcare Mr. THUNE. I yield the floor. great distinction. I urge my colleagues proposals, most Americans will pay higher The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- to join me in supporting her nomina- premiums for health insurance. ator from Connecticut. tion. Mr. President, I ask unanimous con- Now, I am not Nostradamus. I don’t Mr. BLUMENTHAL. Mr. President, sent for 5 or 6 minutes to speak on an- have a magic crystal ball, but it was the Senate has under consideration the other subject as in morning business. easy to read the writing on the wall. I nomination of Rachel Brand to be As- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without knew that layers of new taxes and, sociate Attorney General of the United objection, it is so ordered. more importantly, burdensome new States, one of the very top positions in HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION mandates in ObamaCare would lead us the Department of Justice and in law Mr. GRASSLEY. Mr. President, I to where we find ourselves today: a enforcement. It is a position of con- come to the floor to share real stories broken healthcare system that is not summate trust and responsibility, re- of real hardships from hard-working better off than it was 7 years ago. For quiring full public confidence. I will op- families in my home State of Iowa. millions of Americans, it is much pose this nomination, and I will oppose Seven years ago, Americans were worse. all nominations for the Department of promised that the Affordable Care Act So where do we go from here? After 7 Justice until public trust and con- would make health insurance cheaper years of rapidly rising premiums, soar- fidence in the rule of law is restored and healthcare more accessible. Well, I ing deductibles, and climbing copays, and sustained by appointment of an won’t pretend to break any news here; Republicans are committed to fixing independent special prosecutor to in- the facts speak very much for them- the damage caused by the Affordable vestigate Russian interference in our selves. ObamaCare is not living up to Care Act. Instead of joining us in an ef- last election and potential links to the its promises. When passing the law, the fort to fix what is broken, the other Trump campaign and Trump associ- other side made promises that they side is doing their best to scare the liv- ates. knew wouldn’t be kept. ing daylights out of Americans. I opposed Rod Rosenstein’s nomina- The irony here is that, at the end of From the way they tell it, the House tion. In fact, I was the only member of the day, the so-called Affordable Care bill is ‘‘deadly.’’ What is truly fatal is the Judiciary Committee to vote Act is anything but affordable. Let’s the death spiral the ObamaCare mar- against it and one of six on the floor to look at the word ‘‘affordable’’ in the ketplace is in. Not only is it oppose it for exactly the same reason. Webster dictionary. It says ‘‘having a unaffordable for too many people, it is I stated to him publicly and privately cost that is not too high.’’ I have heard simply unsustainable. ObamaCare is that the only way to preserve his own from many Iowans who tell me in no unable to fulfill its promises to the reputation—well established over many uncertain terms that they cannot af- American people. Here is what every years—and the trust and confidence in ford to buy health insurance because lawmaker in Congress ought to agree the Department of Justice was to ap- ObamaCare is unaffordable. Ever since on: Insurance is not worth having if pa- point an independent prosecutor. So ObamaCare was enacted, I have re- tients cannot afford to use it. far, regrettably, he has failed to do so. ceived letters and calls and emails The facts are very clear. A one-size- That question will be the first of my from Iowans who are frustrated about fits-all, government-run plan is driving priorities when the full Senate meets the soaring costs of their health plans. insurers out of the exchanges, driving with him tomorrow. We will demand to

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The Watergate scandal rector about this investigation and the will now commit, after these most re- gave rise to the saying that ‘‘the cover- related investigation into former Na- cent startling revelations just yester- up is worse than the crime.’’ In this in- tional Security Advisor Michael Flynn. day that the President of the United stance, what we know is that the Rus- Late last night the Times revealed States suggested—indeed, explicitly de- sian interference was aimed at a whole- the details of one such conversation. It manded—that Director Comey stop his sale theft of our democracy, far more occurred in the Oval Office the day investigation involving potential ties serious than the Watergate break-in. after Flynn resigned. The account writ- of Michael Flynn to Russian inter- What we do know about Nixon—and ten by Director Comey, which seems to ference in our election. these facts became the basis for the meet fully the test of credibility, is ab- Chilling facts raised in the last sev- first article of impeachment—is that solutely chilling. ‘‘I hope you can see eral days now raise serious questions he attempted to indirectly interfere your way clear to letting this go, to about obstruction of justice by the with an FBI investigation into that letting Flynn go,’’ Mr. Trump told Mr. President of the United States. So we break-in. Put very simply, while Nixon Comey, according to the memo reconsider this nomination at a truly un- may not have directly threatened to ported in The New York Times. ‘‘He is usual, very likely unique and unprece- fire the FBI Director if that Director a good guy. I hope you can let this go.’’ dented time in our country. continued to investigate Nixon associ- When the FBI Director continued to The revelation last evening that ates, he made clear that his preference pursue the investigation, President President Trump asked the FBI Direc- as head of the executive branch was Trump fired him. tor to shut down the Federal investiga- that any such investigation should We are witnessing this obstruction of tion into his then-National Security cease. justice in realtime, and these revela- Advisor, Michael Flynn, is evidence of ‘‘History doesn’t repeat, but it tions are shaking our country’s faith in severe political interference and pos- rhymes.’’ That is a saying that has pro- the independence of our Nation’s high- sibly criminal wrongdoing in an ongo- found truth here. We now have credible est ranking law enforcement agency, ing criminal investigation. The evi- reports that President Trump at- our rule of law, and our national secu- dence of obstruction continues to tempted to do directly what President rity. It is a theft of our democracy—lit- mount. We are witnessing an obstruc- Nixon sought to do indirectly. He erally, a threat to our national secu- tion of justice case unfolding before stopped a lawful, ongoing criminal in- rity—from Russian meddling in the our eyes in real time. Revelation after vestigation. Nixon ordered his staff to election, potential Trump ties, and revelation continues to shake this work through the CIA to pressure the links to that interference in our de- country’s confidence in our govern- FBI to drop the Watergate investiga- mocracy—the core, foundational exer- ment and in this administration’s com- tion. President Trump simply sum- cise of our democracy being voting— petence. The need for an independent moned Director Comey into the Oval and then waiting for 21⁄2 weeks when special prosecutor has never been so Office, according to reports that cer- then-Deputy Attorney General Sally clear and convincing and so unques- tainly need to be verified, and ordered Yates warned that Michael Flynn was tionably necessary. everyone else to leave the room, sug- vulnerable to blackmail as National I call on my Republican colleagues gesting then that the Director drop his Security Adviser—blackmail from the now to rise to this challenge, to shine investigation. He did so just 2 weeks Russians. She was fired only days in the light of history, and to commit after having told Director Comey that later. that an independent special prosecutor he might not have a place in the When the investigation into that will be appointed to uncover the truth Trump administration and making Russian meddling and Trump’s ties to and hold accountable anyone who has clear that Director Comey’s loyalty to it continued, Director Comey was sum- committed wrongdoing. him might well determine whether moned to be told that the investigation Because so far we have no such spe- Comey would keep his job. When Direc- should be shut down, and he was fired cial prosecutor, I will oppose this nom- tor Comey rejected Trump’s sugges- when he refused to do so. Very likely, ination. But I also have disagreements tion, in effect, he was fired. That is the part of that decision related to the re- with Rachel Brand. I respect her record line of facts established by this mount- quest for additional resources that Di- of public service. I believe she is simply ing evidence. It is a serious charge. rector Comey made to Rosenstein not the right person to serve as Asso- We should be cautious. If Director shortly before he was fired and his re- ciate Attorney General because of her Comey did not write that memo or if, fusal to rule out the President as a tar- longstanding, apparently deeply held for some reason, there is a question get of that investigation when he came philosophy on the use and proper appli- about the truth, perhaps the suspicions before the Judiciary Committee. cation of government power. When the are unfounded, but there is credible The facts will eventually form a mo- Federal Government engaged in ac- and significant evidence. Director saic, and that mosaic may dramati- tions that threaten the privacy rights Comey has established—to both his cally show a picture of criminal con- of innocent Americans, Ms. Brand has critics and his friends—that he is a duct. That is the process of inves- advocated nonaction. I believe the man of probity and dedication to public tigating and prosecuting criminal United States must protect the privacy service and to this Nation. wrongdoing. Right now, that activity of her citizens, and that fact is only We cannot feel confident about nomi- requires a fidelity to the rule of law in one among many that cause me to dis- nations for any of these positions— one’s getting all of the evidence, in- agree with her. whether it be Director of the FBI or cluding transcripts, tapes, memos, and The failure to nominate and appoint Associate Attorney General—from a other documents. They must be sub- an independent special prosecutor will President who has demonstrated such poenaed immediately so that they are lead me to oppose all of the nomina- contempt for the rule of law and for not destroyed or concealed, so that tions that are set forth by this admin- law enforcement, which is the job of they are preserved and produced. That istration, including anyone nominated the Department of Justice. The White must be done without delay, including for the FBI. I think it should now be House’s timeline and justifications for there being testimony under oath, in clear, if it was not before, that such an the decision to fire Director Comey public, from Comey, Attorney General independent prosecutor is necessary. certainly now, at this moment, fail to Sessions, Deputy Attorney General Parallels have been drawn by Mem- meet the test of credibility. Rod Rosenstein, and Don McGahn, bers on both sides of the aisle to the We know from the President’s own White House Counsel. They should be Watergate scandal. To this day, we words in interviews he conducted late called to testify by the Judiciary Com- don’t know whether President Nixon last week that the FBI investigation mittee, under oath, and in public. ordered the Watergate break-ins or into possible collusion between individ- I hope that my colleagues will, in- simply was a beneficiary of the crime, uals in the Trump campaign and the deed, rise to this challenge and shine in just as we don’t know now whether Russian Government was on the Presi- the light of history and commit now to

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To cut calls her friendly and goofy and the any criminal wrongdoing so that we this money by this huge amount—al- stubbornest cuss. will prevent any obstruction of justice most $1 trillion over 10 years—and act She was never expected to read but is because the American people deserve as though it can all be made up now on her fourth Harry Potter book. it, they need it, and they demand it. through some kind of fake flexibility is She was never expected to ride a bike, Mr. President, I yield the floor. just an unspeakably cruel way to shift but now she does. She even has a job. The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. COT- this burden to the States. After years of volunteering at a local TON). The Senator from Maine. The bill talks about saving on the nursing home, she was offered a part- HEALTHCARE LEGISLATION deficit. It saves on the deficit because time job and is doing well. She is doing Mr. KING. Mr. President, I rise to $840 billion is shifted to the States. Let this because she had support from Med- speak for a few minutes on the AHCA, them pay it—shift and shaft. That is icaid. She cannot cross a street by her- which is the healthcare bill that was what it is—shift and shaft. Shift the self, and she needs to be reminded to recently passed in the House. cost and shaft the States, particularly brush her teeth. She has no sense of I believe the letters stand for ‘‘anti- the people in those States who depend money or danger. On the one hand, she healthcare bill’’ as there are many upon these programs—those people is 20 years old; on the other hand, she troublesome aspects of this bill—kick- being the disabled, the elderly, chil- is 6 years old. In other words, like most ing something like 20 million people off dren, people with disabilities, and young people, she is complicated. Ev- of health insurance and compromising those who are struggling to defeat the erything she has achieved has been ac- essential benefits. It is what I call a scourge of opioids and opioid addiction. complished with the help of dedicated ‘‘fig leaf’’ preexisting condition provi- I want to talk about some people teachers and therapists and has been sion, which does not provide adequate today. I want to talk about this guy, almost exclusively funded through spe- funding in order to actually protect Dan Humphrey. He is 28 years old and cial education in the public schools and people with preexisting conditions. lives in a group home in Lewiston, ME. by Medicaid. Yet what I really want to focus on He has autism and is nonverbal. He has By the way, Medicaid provides help today are two interrelated provisions— some bipolar characteristics and a sei- to the tune of $26 million a year to a massive cut to Medicaid and a mas- zure disorder but is gentle and charm- children in Maine schools who need it. sive tax cut for the wealthiest Ameri- ing, and you can see his smile. He has One of the amendments passed at the cans. By the way, that tax cut gives a very basic functional communication last minute in the House puts that zero tax cut to anyone making less skills. He enjoys jumping on a trampo- funding through the schools in jeop- than $200,000 a year. I will talk about line and drumming. He performs all of ardy. She has made monumental gains, that in a moment. his chores to care for himself, with but she will never be able to live alone. Let’s talk about the Medicaid cuts, prompting and guidance, such as laun- What happens when we make these however. This is a part of the bill that dry and grocery shopping. He is proud cuts? What happens to Lidia? What has not gotten much attention. It is of his volunteer jobs. He serves Meals happens to Dan? $840 billion over 10 years. It will be on Wheels to clients through the week, In the old days, they were about a 10-percent cut of Medicaid and he takes excess food from a nearby warehoused. They were in facilities funds in Maine. It is hard to get an ac- college to a local soup kitchen every that were far away—out of sight, out of tual analysis of that, however, because Saturday. mind—or with their parents, who had the House bill was passed without any Daniel needs around-the-clock sup- to bear the burden, who themselves Congressional Budget Office analysis— port in order to maintain this quality could not work because they had to none, zero. Unbelievably, the Members of life. When this level of programming take care of the children. These are of the House voted for a bill that they, was unavailable or is unavailable, he just two people—two examples—of literally, did not know the financial ef- regresses and becomes aggressive. Even what we are talking about here. fects of—how it would affect the at current funding, Daniel is one of the Who will speak for them? Who will States, how it would affect the people lucky ones, as he is not on a waiting stand up for them? in their States. Maybe, next week, we list. Although he qualified for services, I will, and I hope this body will. We will get that analysis. Certainly, this it took him 8 years to get a home and are the last bulwark between this ter- body will not act in that way with no a community-based service waiver for rible piece of legislation that was Congressional Budget Office analysis. him to be able to live the life he does. passed in the House and these people Let’s talk for a minute about who is He is in a group home in the wonderful and millions like them across the on Medicaid, as 34 percent of the people city of Lewiston, ME, where he lives country. Who will stand up for them? on Medicaid are children, 20 percent today. He is contributing. He has a de- Why are we doing this? Why are we are disabled people, and 18 percent are cent life. putting States through the ringer of elderly. In other words, almost three- By the way, this is all about people. having to make decisions to choose be- quarters—75 percent—are children, dis- It really bothers me that we talk about tween Lidia and an elderly person in a abled, and elderly people. Many people policy and ideology and free markets nursing home and between a child and talk about and think about Medicaid as and flexibility. We are talking about a young man who is trying to beat some kind of welfare program. This is people. We are talking about real peo- opioids? Why are we forcing them to an essential lifeline for some of the ple whose lives are on the line—people make those choices? most vulnerable people in our society— who are struggling with opioid addic- It is because we want to give a huge children, the disabled, and the elder- tion, elderly people who have no place tax cut to the wealthiest Americans, ly—75 percent—and 75 percent of the to go, and disabled people like Dan and and I am talking about a huge tax cut. funding goes to disabled and elderly like Lidia Woofenden. It is the most skewed tax cut in his- people. Here is Lidia. She graduated from tory because it only goes to a few peo- The people who sponsored this bill Mt. Ararat High School in June. She ple. Seventy-nine percent of the benefit and who are talking about it across the turns 21 in August. That is the high of this tax cut goes to millionaires, country talk about flexibility. Yes, school my kids went to. I had two boys which is an average tax cut of $54,000 a there are some cuts, but we are giving graduate from that high school. When year. Now, $54,000 a year to multi- the States flexibility. That is nonsense. she was 4 years old, she was diagnosed millionaires—the top one-tenth of 1 They are giving the States flexibility with a delayed growth of myelin on her percent, those with incomes above $6 to make decisions between funding pro- brain, and, at 15, she began having sei- million—would receive tax cuts of grams for the elderly and programs for zures and was diagnosed with a rare ge- more than $250,000 a piece in 2025 under children, between cutting off programs netic disorder. She lives with intellec- this legislation. for opioids and providing support for tual disabilities, seizures, and their We are putting people like this at people who are disabled. That is not side effects, as well as with a general risk in order to have somebody buy an- flexibility. That is just passing agoniz- lack of physical coordination. Yet, as other Maserati. It is unbelievable that

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:42 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00014 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.027 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2987 this body would even consider making with those who are disadvantaged. On share those same stories now. I will that tradeoff. That is what we are talk- the Medicaid front, our goal should be share a couple of them today. They ing about here. Let’s be very clear. It is to look at the House bill and make it haven’t stopped coming in. Many peo- an equation of lost Medicaid benefits, a better. ple have just decided: We are never gigantic tax cut. That is what this bill The people who were added to Med- going to have the doctors we used to is all about. If you make between icaid under President Obama’s have. We are never going to have the $500,000 and $1 million, you will see a healthcare plan, decided by the insurance policy we used to have. The $4,000 tax cut, which is not so egregious States—the very group who my friend government has failed us. as higher up, and if you are under from Maine said shouldn’t be making They had a policy on which they $200,000 a year, you get zero. these kinds of decisions—the States were paying maybe a third of what This doesn’t even masquerade as a made these decisions because it was they are paying now and which had middle-class tax cut. This is one of the left to them to make them. And they higher coverage. But after a while, you most inequitable, cruel, and uncon- weren’t children and they weren’t old quit complaining and understand that scionable pieces of policymaking I have people; they were single adults who your government has actually come up ever seen. I think we need to be clear traditionally had not been covered by with a system that—for your family, at about that. If we don’t stand up for Medicaid. We can talk all we want to least—was worse than the system they Dan, Lidia, and millions like them—old about how these cuts are going to af- had. and young, living in the shadows of our fect children and old people, but that is We talk about cancellation notices society, asking for nothing more than not who would be affected. being sent out by the thousands. Thou- the ability to do the slightest things There is a debate the States have al- sands of families and thousands of indi- we take for granted, like crossing the ready had. Some States added single viduals got cancellation notices. Last street, having a job, dressing, feeling adults for the first time, and others year President Clinton, while cam- they are contributing—to take that didn’t. Many States believe they can paigning for his wife for President, away, to force States to make those de- make those decisions better in their said: What a crazy system. The costs cisions—and make no mistake, they own States, to have a healthcare home keep going up, and the coverage keeps are going to have to make those deci- where somebody has a doctor they going down. sions. You simply can’t cut the amount could go to. Having coverage doesn’t There is clearly something wrong of money that is proposed in this bill— matter if you can’t get access to here. We need to do something about which will expand over time, by the healthcare. Our debate here should be it. We should be working together to do way—and still expect the services to be about access to healthcare, and it something about it. the same or better through some kind should be about people who, because of When I am home and talking to peo- of flexibility. That is nonsense. It ObamaCare, are having problems with ple about this or when people contact would be bad enough, except to do it access to healthcare. our office about this, they just con- because of a massive tax cut to the President Obama promised that the tinue to say over and over again that people who least need it—that is what new plan would bend the cost curve. He this has gotten worse. Now, we get really makes this unacceptable. said it would bend the cost curve and some calls—and I am glad to get I know that people in this body are bring healthcare costs down. I think them—where people say: We want to be working on an alternative to the bill in the topic he was discussing was sure that you understand what happens the House, and I hope this can be an healthcare coverage costs coming down to individuals like the two people my open process where all of us partici- by $2,500 for the typical family. The friend from Maine mentioned. And we pate, where we are able to contribute cost curve got bent all right, but it are looking for ways to be sure they ideas and amendments and thoughts. didn’t get bent down, it got bent up. In don’t get left out. But let me tell you Particularly, I want us to think about our State, just last year in Missouri, 25 some of the people who have been left the fact that we are the last line of de- percent was the average increase from out. fense. We are the last line of defense one year to the next. The individual Thomas and Kathy, a married couple for people who can’t speak up. In the policies in many of our counties—84 from Kansas City, told me that their case of my friend Dan, he literally percent have only one insurance com- out-of-pocket costs have jumped from can’t speak up. We are who they are pany that is willing to offer a plan. $2,700 in 2014—that was the first year of counting on, between us, and if it That should tell us something right this healthcare plan—to $5,000 in 2017. weren’t for us, they would have no one there about whether the exchange idea In addition, their copays have in- to think about and demand that they worked, the way it was put together. It creased—in their case, they appear to be treated fairly and respectfully in the is clearly not working. be lucky—by only 20 or 30 percent. richest society on Earth. I hope we can We can continue to move forward and They are not by themselves. Tony, an do better. I know we can. act as though that doesn’t matter, but insurance broker in Northwest Mis- Mr. President, I yield the floor. it matters a lot. We have 114 counties souri, recently told me about a client The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- and the city of St. Louis, and our con- who was shopping for coverage. The cli- ator from Missouri. stitution functions as if it were a coun- ent realized that the only plan she Mr. BLUNT. Mr. President, there is a ty. One-hundred and fifteen of those could afford would force her to spend, reason we are talking about entities, the county-like entities—97 of for herself, almost $5,000 a year in in- healthcare, and we should be talking them have only 1 company willing to surance premiums on top of having an- about healthcare. We should be looking offer insurance. In all of them, the av- other $5,000 deductible before that infor the gaps and trying to find those erage increase statewide was 25 percent surance she would be paying for every gaps. I had a long conversation this 1 year over the next, and that is just 1 month would do any good. She said she morning about people who have disabil- year, and it is not even next year. would be spending almost $10,000 with- ities, adults who have disabilities, and Every estimate says that those indi- out receiving anything, and it made ab- the challenges they have always faced vidual policies will go up even more solutely no sense. Well, her insurance in the insurance marketplace. They are next year than they did last year. broker couldn’t help but agreed with people like Dan and Lidia who have a We can continue to act as though her that in her case it didn’t make hard time working or are unable to this system is working and not do any- much sense, and I think all of us can have a full-time job, who may be cov- thing about it, or we can do something see why it might not. ered by insurance through their par- about it. Yesterday at a press event here in ents until they are too old, or they When ObamaCare was implemented, I the Capitol, I mentioned a farmer who may not be covered because their par- came to the floor almost every week called and said she had a $12,000 deduct- ents aren’t covered. But normally, if for the first year to share story after ible for her family and she was paying that has been the case, where you were story of people and families who were $16,000 in annual premiums. So in her able to share whatever coverage your affected, who couldn’t have the kind of case, she could pay $28,000 before she parents had—and certainly this is an healthcare or the kind of coverage—ei- had any coverage at all, and that area we should work on, how we deal ther one—they had before, and I could $28,000 was money—she could be paying

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:42 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00015 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.028 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2988 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 $12,000 of it just for access to see a doc- In the past month or so, we have seen something to rescue the people who are tor because her insurance company big companies drop out of the markets being crushed under this collapsing didn’t help with that. in Virginia and in Iowa. There is now ObamaCare system. That is why Re- One final story I would like to share just one company left selling in the ex- publicans are the ones talking about is from Rob, a small business owner in changes for Nebraska and for Delaware. solving the problems that have been St. Joseph who pays half of his employ- There is just one company selling in caused by ObamaCare. The House of ees’ medical, and his costs keep going Alaska, in Missouri, in Alabama, in Representatives passed a bill that in- up. His agent walks in every year, he Oklahoma, in South Carolina, and in cludes some important things that told me, and says: Well, this year it my home State of Wyoming. could help stabilize the markets. It in- went up 9 percent. For people living in all of these cludes things to stop these double-digit He said: That might have been ac- States, there is a monopoly for whom premium hikes that have been occur- ceptable, except it also went up 9 per- they get to buy their insurance from ring every year. cent last year and 11 percent the year under the ObamaCare markets. That is In the Senate, we have already start- before that, and it was 9 percent the not a marketplace, it is a monopoly. ed mapping out the ideas. We are going year before that. The Associated Press looked at all of to continue offering our ideas. We are Many of the losses in the individual these companies dropping out. It now going to continue debating them. I market are being shifted to try to found that 40 percent of America—4 out want to invite Democrats in the Senate make the insurance market make up of 10 counties in America—will have to come to the floor and offer their for what is happening on the individual just 1 company selling insurance in the ideas as well. It doesn’t have to be a side. ObamaCare exchanges for next year; 4 partisan fight. It shouldn’t be a par- Year over year, we see premium in- out of every 10 counties in America. tisan fight that drags on for months creases, skyrocketing deductibles, and That is what you get with an and months. We need to find solutions higher out-of-pocket costs. That is the ObamaCare exchange. for the American people who are suf- status quo under what we have now, How is that supposed to bring down fering under President Obama’s and it is unacceptable. That is why Re- prices? Other companies have been say- healthcare law. publicans have made clear that we are ing how much they will need to charge For all the Democrats who are now going to move forward to solutions if they are going to stick around for 1 trying to redirect the blame away from that will address some of the major more year under ObamaCare. It looks themselves, the problems they caused, issues in our healthcare system and like we will have another year of in- trying to pass the buck, we are trying look for ways to bring down costs and credible price increases. In Maryland, to pass a bill. I can tell from listening expand access to quality, affordable insurance companies are demanding at home in Wyoming, where I will be coverage, but more importantly, qual- average premium increases of any- again this weekend and was last week- ity, affordable care. where between 18 and 59 percent. In end, people know who caused the prob- I urge my colleagues to work with us Connecticut, they are asking for 15 to lems of ObamaCare. The American peo- and join in this effort to help us find 33 percent more next year. ple are looking for solutions. They solutions to be sure we don’t leave peo- Democrats are desperate to blame don’t care who offers it. They want so- ple out who shouldn’t be left out but the collapse of ObamaCare on Presi- lutions. I think if we can get a bipar- that we also make access to healthcare dent Trump. My question to the Demo- tisan solution, all the better. I invite more possible for more families and crats is this, What about all of the the Democrats to come to the floor to more individuals than it is today. companies that dropped out of the mar- give us their best ideas. Mr. President, I yield the floor. ketplaces last year? What about the Mr. President, I yield the floor. I suggest the absence of a quorum. I suggest the absence of a quorum. double-digit price increases Americans The PRESIDING OFFICER. The The PRESIDING OFFICER. The were paying year after year under clerk will call the roll. clerk will call the roll. The senior assistant legislative clerk ObamaCare? The senior assistant legislative clerk proceeded to call the roll. The premium for the average bench- proceeded to call the roll. Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, I ask mark plan in the exchanges went up 25 Mr. SCHATZ. Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for percent at the start of this year. Are unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded. Democrats going to try to blame that the quorum call be rescinded. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without on someone else? The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. objection, it is so ordered. In March, the Kaiser Family Founda- TOOMEY). Without objection, it is so or- Mr. BARRASSO. Mr. President, Re- tion reported the results of a poll on dered. publicans have been warning for years healthcare in America. In this poll, 4 WELCOMING BACK THE SENATOR FROM NORTH now about the grave damage out of 10 American adults with insur- CAROLINA ObamaCare has done to the American ance under ObamaCare said they have Mr. SCHATZ. Mr. President, before I healthcare system. We have pointed trouble affording their deductible. move into my remarks, I would like to out how the healthcare law’s regula- They have ObamaCare insurance, but 4 say welcome back to the Senator from tions are destabilizing the health in- out of 10 adults in America with North Carolina. We are happy to see surance industry. We have warned that ObamaCare insurance are having trou- him hale and hardy. the ObamaCare markets are unstable. ble affording their deductibles. Three I was worried until I saw your little We have talked about the death spiral out of every ten with insurance under internet video and you looked fine. It which has already doomed ObamaCare. ObamaCare said they have problems is nice to see you. We welcome you It seems like every day we get more paying their medical bills. One in four back to the Senate floor—and looking proof that the collapse is well under- Americans with insurance under more energetic than the rest of us, in way. Last week, the insurance com- ObamaCare said the costs have forced any case. So happy to have you back, pany Aetna announced it was exiting them to put off healthcare they needed Senator TILLIS. the individual ObamaCare markets en- or skip it entirely. NET NEUTRALITY tirely. CNN did a story about this last These people are suffering because of Mr. President, in the rubble of this Wednesday. The headlines said: ‘‘Aetna President Obama and the Democrats week, the Federal Communications to ObamaCare: We’re Outta Here.’’ It is and what they passed. These Ameri- Commission is going to formally start interesting because Aetna as a com- cans are struggling because of the the process of destroying net neu- pany was one of the cheerleaders for flawed policies and regulations of the trality. A free and open internet is ObamaCare early on; they jumped in ObamaCare law that Democrats in without question important to democ- and said: We are very involved. We Washington wrote. racy and American innovation. want to make this work. Here they are Republicans are saying what we have Apparently this FCC believes we no pulling out, saying it has failed. said all along: Healthcare reform longer need the protections that keep Humana had already said it was quit- should be about helping people get the internet service providers from dis- ting the exchanges, not just one place care they need, from a doctor they criminating against websites and on- but everywhere. choose, at a lower cost. We need to do line content, but these protections are

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:53 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00016 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.030 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2989 what make the internet what it is We would pay more for the same trality—because it is critical for inno- today. They mandate, very simply, internet, but the issue here is bigger vation. that ISPs have to treat websites the than a company that streams video When you think about how quickly same, whether they are Twitter or asking an ISP to stream their content the internet of things is gaining steam, Facebook, Breitbart or the New York faster in exchange for more money. It it is also a big deal for what they call Times. The FCC is supposed to be there is not just that. This is an era, as we IoT. We are at a historic moment in in- to make sure ISPs follow this basic all know, of corporate consolidation. novation in the digital space. principle: Treat all content the same. The content companies and the ISPs Kevin Kelly, internet pioneer, re- But under this administration, these are often one and the same. So it is not cently did an interview with Stephen protections are being undermined. just that you would get Netflix negoti- Dubner of Freakonomics Radio. They It starts tomorrow when they will ating with Comcast and maybe paying talked about the fact that in 2015 vote to begin the process to repeal net extra so they can stream their content alone, 5 quintillion transistors were neutrality. I really don’t know why the so you can view it; it is also what hap- added to devices that were not com- FCC thinks this is a good idea, because pens when Comcast or some other com- puters. A quintillion is a billion bil- the internet is not broken. What prob- pany is also the content company. lion. That is such an enormous num- lem were you trying to solve by getting I want everybody to think this ber, it is hard to fathom. That is how rid of these protections, and on whose through. If you were running a com- fast the internet of things is growing. behalf are you working? There is not a pany that provided access to the inter- That is the level of innovation that is single constituent in my State with net and also owned content, wouldn’t taking place, but this innovation de- whom I ever interacted—and I bet this you be at least a little bit tempted— pends on a free and open internet. is true for many other Members of the wouldn’t your board of directors at So the degree and extent that indi- Senate and House—who says: You least make you look at the possibility vidual ISPs are able to control who know those net neutrality protections? that if you have television shows and if gets what and at what speed, all of that I hate them. You have to get rid of you have websites and you depend on innovation at the app level, the IoT that net neutrality thing. It is bugging traffic, why in the world wouldn’t you level, all the cool stuff you are looking me and harming my access to the prioritize your own stuff? It is not forward to from Silicon Valley or wher- internet. I would like fast lanes and apocryphal. It is not apocalyptic to ever it may be, is in danger because slow lanes. I would like my ISP to de- imagine that a company would say: We then it becomes about paying tolls. termine what I get to see and how are a vertical now, and we own con- Then it becomes about a commercial quickly I get to see it. negotiation. Then it becomes about There is literally no constituency for tent. Why are we going to put up our lawyering up. You have a really good what is happening tomorrow, but there competitor’s stuff at the same rates? idea? Lawyer up. You have a really is one group that stands to gain here, The law doesn’t provide for that any- and that is the ISPs, the companies more. Net neutrality is a thing of the good idea? Get people who have a mas- that control your access to the inter- past. ter’s in business administration. For- You don’t have to imagine that these net. It is true that they are promising get the engineers. Forget the content to keep the internet open and free. In are bad people who are running these developers. Forget the creative class. fact, they did it just this week. A group companies; you just have to imagine What you have to do is figure out how of ISPs published a full page ad in the that they are businesspeople and that to get in on what will essentially be print version of the Washington Post they run publicly traded companies what they call a closed shop. And that reaffirming their commitment to vol- that have to give quarterly earnings is what net neutrality is all about. untary net neutrality. In other words, reports and have to show profit every What if your internet service pro- they promised to be good to all of us as single quarter. What better way to vider has a relationship with one of consumers. They are basically saying: make profit than to create what they these websites? What if an auto sales You don’t need the Federal Commu- call on the internet a walled garden? website is purchased by a media com- nications Commission to enforce any Everything seems like the internet pany or vice versa? If you try to pur- rule or law related to a free and open you used to have, except it is all within chase a car online, you may end up in internet. We will do it voluntarily. one family of companies, and that is an internet funhouse if the FCC takes But here is the thing: Without net what net neutrality is designed to pre- away net neutrality. It will look like neutrality as a matter of rule and law, vent. When you get on the internet, the internet, but you may not have there is nothing that prevents them your ISPs can’t tell you whether to go complete access to all the options. The from treating content or websites dif- to Google or Bing or Yahoo or same idea applies to the internet of ferently. In fact, they will have finan- Facebook or Breitbart or the New York things. If every car connects to the cial incentives to do just that because Times or the Honolulu Star-Advertiser internet, broadband providers could de- making profits is their obligation. or wherever it wants; you get it all at cide that it takes too much bandwidth They have to maximize their profits. the same speed. That is what net neu- and pick and choose which brands are They have a fiduciary obligation to trality is all about. But to the degree allowed to connect to the internet. maximize profits. If there is an oppor- and extent that net neutrality protec- That is what can happen without net tunity now or in the future to change tions are repealed as a matter of law, neutrality. the business model for internet service, these companies can suddenly provide They could offer a basic internet changing the internet as we know it you with opportunities to see all their package that limits customers to cer- along the way, they are duty bound to stuff and only their stuff. You will still tain websites or content, sort of how pursue it. They do not have an obliga- have access to the other stuff. It might you buy basic cable and then decide tion—a moral one or a statutory one or not stream very well or load very fast. whether you want ESPN or HBO or a legal one—to a free and open inter- That is what net neutrality is all whatever additional channels. It is not net; they have an obligation to their about. totally out of the question that that shareholders and profits. Entrepreneurs and small business could be the way you access the inter- Here is what is going to happen if the owners will also be hurt. Think about net in the future. FCC succeeds ending net neutrality what it takes to start and grow a busi- The thing is, it sounds so scary, it once and for all: ISPs would be allowed ness. You don’t have extra cash to hand sounds so crazy that you can’t imagine to split content into two lanes—favor- over to your ISPs to make sure people it would happen. And it is true that it ite content would be in the fast lane can access your content. Without net didn’t happen in the past, but that is and everything else in the slow lane. neutrality, new services, new websites, because it wasn’t in their commercial Companies that need their content to new big ideas will have a harder time interest to do it. Think about towns be fast for video streaming or cloud competing with established businesses. where there are one or two ISPs. Think services would have to pay to be in the That is why more than 1,000 entre- about a future 5 or 10 years from now fast lane. At the end of the day, the preneurs, investors, and startups from when net neutrality is repealed. The cost is going to be transferred to you, every single State have signed a letter moment it is in their commercial in- the consumer. asking that the FCC protect net neu- terest to do something to change the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:53 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00017 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.033 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2990 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 very nature of the internet is the mo- offices determines who wins and loses, lanes, that is precisely what an entre- ment they will be duty bound to con- it will be just a few companies in a few preneur will need to do. Right now, the sider going forward. corporate boardrooms deciding who essence of the internet is to innovate When net neutrality was adopted gets into the express lane and who falls and test new ideas first, and if an idea under the previous FCC, there were 3.8 behind in an internet traffic jam. then takes off, the creator can attract million people who provided comment. That is why we need a true open capital and expand. This is a very unique process. When the internet. That is exactly what I heard Creating internet fast and slow lanes law passed that allowed ISPs to sell last month when I hosted a roundtable would flip this process on its head. In- your commercial data, to sell your in Boston with a number of our tech stead, an entrepreneur would first need browsing data to third parties—that firms—Carbonite, TripAdvisor, to raise capital in order to start inno- happened in a 30-hour period—basi- Wayfair, iRobot, and others. Their vating, because she would need to pay cally, nobody noticed. We tried to mo- message was clear: Net neutrality im- for fast lane access to have a chance bilize. We got the word out. They had pacts businesses across the entire for her product to be seen and to suc- the votes, and it happened very quick- internet ecosystem, and the ever- ceed. Only those with access to deep ly. This is different. Under the law, changing environment of entrepreneur- pockets would develop anything new. there is a public comment period. ship can be easily disrupted without Imagine the stifling of creativity if There were 3.8 million people who com- this ingredient—net neutrality. startups need massive amounts of mented on the last net neutrality de- Today, essentially every company is money even to innovate. bate. There are already 1 million peo- an internet company. Consider these Now, Chairman Pai says he likes net ple who have commented through the statistics. In 2016, almost one-half of neutrality. But in reality, his proposal FCC’s website. the venture capital funds invested in would eliminate the very order that es- Tomorrow, the FCC will take an ac- this country went toward internet-spe- tablished today’s network neutrality tion that will open up the comment pe- cific and software companies. That is rules. That is like saying you value de- riod and provide people an opportunity $25 billion worth of investment. mocracy but you don’t see a need for a to weigh in on this. I would just offer At the same time, to meet America’s constitution. It makes no sense. For Chairman Pai and the ISPs, title that I do not believe there is any real insatiable demand for broadband inter- II is a bad word. It is some terrible constituency for what the FCC is net, U.S. broadband and telecommuni- thing. But for everyone else—con- doing. I think people across the coun- cations industry giants invested more sumers, activists, and entrepreneurs— than $87 billion in capital expenditures try—young and old; left, right, and title II is a reason to celebrate. Back in in 2015. That is the highest rate of an- center; Democratic and Republican; 2010, the FCC attempted to put net nual investment in the last 10 years. So urban and rural—everybody who cares neutrality rules in place without re- we have hit a sweet spot. Investment in about a free and open internet ought to classifying under title II of the Com- broadband and wireless technology is care about what is happening tomor- munications Act. The DC Circuit Court row. high, job creation is high, and venture invalidated those rules. Then, in 2015, With that, I would like to yield to a capital investment in online startups is the Federal Communications Commis- Member of the Senate who has many high. Disrupting that formula now sion rightfully adopted the open inter- years of leadership in this space, some- would only create chaos and uncer- net order, which reclassified broadband one who has authored some of the stat- tainty. under title II, and the DC Circuit utory architecture that has allowed With strong net neutrality protec- upheld the rule in 2016. this innovation on the internet to tions in place, there is no problem that The issue is settled. The FCC should occur, someone who fights for con- needs to be fixed. But the Trump ad- not repeat past mistakes and instead sumers, the Senator from Massachu- ministration wants to upend this hall- should maintain the successful current setts, Mr. MARKEY. mark of American innovation and de- regime. Why is title II appropriate? It The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- mocratization by gutting net neu- was Congress’s intent to preserve the ator from Massachusetts. trality rules. Tomorrow, Chairman Ajit FCC’s authority to forestall threats to Mr. MARKEY. Mr. President, I say to Pai and the Republican-controlled Fed- competition and innovation in tele- Senator SCHATZ, thank you for orga- eral Communications Commission will communications services, even as the nizing our Senate net neutrality cham- vote to begin a proceeding that will technologies used to offer those serv- pions out here on the floor today so allow a few powerful broadband pro- ices evolved over time. that we can all stand up and add our viders to control the internet. Now, classifying broadband under voices to your voice in speaking on this Now, the big broadband barons and title II is just a very fancy way of say- critical issue. Now, there are people their Republican allies say: We don’t ing broadband is like telephone service. watching the Senate floor right now by need net neutrality. They say: What we It is a basic utility that Americans watching the live stream on c-span.org really need is a ‘‘light touch’’ regu- rely on every day to work, to commu- or on Facebook Live. latory framework for broadband. nicate, and to connect. Broadband has They might be engaged citizens, they But let’s be clear here. When the become the single most important tele- might be political junkies, or maybe broadband behemoths say ‘‘light communications service Americans use they need something to help them to touch’’ what they really mean is to transmit information from one to ensure that their newborn is going to ‘‘hands off’’. They really want hands another. This is common sense to go to sleep this afternoon. That is off of their ability to choose online Americans around the country, with watching C–SPAN. That helps the fam- winners and losers. the only exception being high-powered ily. Let’s face it. The action in this That is what they really want, to telecommunications lobbyists inside most deliberative body can sometimes allow AT&T, Verizon, Charter, the beltway here in Washington. feel a little slow. Comcast, and all of the other internet Chairman Pai also claims that he Now, imagine just a few companies service providers to set up internet fast wants internet service providers to vol- deciding that c-span.org will be put in lanes for those with the deepest pock- untarily decide to follow net neutrality a slow lane, that the public interest ets, pushing those who can’t onto a principles. That is like asking a kid to content streamed out to the world slow gravel path. Then, they will just voluntarily swear not to stick his hand from this Chamber will be sent out at pass any extra costs onto the con- in the cookie jar. It just won’t happen. an even more deliberative pace, all sumer. What they really want is to We know the broadband industry—your while kitten videos get priority in an sideline the FCC, our telecommuni- cable, wireless or telecommunications internet fast lane. cations cop on the beat, and to create provider—can’t self-regulate them- When people talk about net neu- an unregulated online ecosystem where selves. They struggle to even show up trality, that is what we are talking broadband providers can stifle the de- on time to install or fix your service. about. Instead of an open and free velopment of competing services that Do we really trust them to resist using internet where the billions of clicks, cannot afford an internet E-ZPass. their internet gatekeeper role and put- likes, and links made by customer and No one should have to ask permission ting their online competitors at an un- entrepreneurs in their living rooms and to innovate. But with fast and slow fair disadvantage?

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:53 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00018 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.034 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2991 This effort on net neutrality is just global marketplace—where you have touched on it—what happens now? one piece of the Republicans’ effort to the free exchange of ideas, and today’s What happens now is making the dismantle the basic protections safe- rules protect that shipping lane of the American people aware that this is the guarding American families. Instead of 21st century—the freedom for Ameri- time for their voices to be heard. protecting our privacy, our healthcare, cans and people worldwide to compete The fact is, there are two notions of our environment, or our net neutrality, online. It exists so that the powerful political change in America. Some peo- the Republicans want to give it all interests, those who have the deepest ple think it starts in Washington, DC, away to their friends and allies and big pockets, do not go out and swallow the and in government buildings in various corporations. little guys up every single time. capitals and then trickles down to the The FCC has received more than 1 Now, as we talk about net neutrality grassroots. million comments already, and I am and why it is so essential for jobs, free Senator SCHATZ, Senator MARKEY, sure millions more will flow in the speech, political engagement, edu- and I take a different view with respect weeks and months to come, as the FCC cation, economic opportunity, and bet- to how you bring about political comment period will stretch until at ter competition, there are really just change in America. It is not top-down; least August. Those are comments three points. First, protecting the free it is bottom-up. It is bottom-up as from every corner of the country and and open internet under Title II of the Americans from all walks of life weigh from every walk of life. They are Telecommunications Act, in my view, in with their legislators, weigh in with standing up to say we need a truly open is the best way to proceed at this the Federal Communications Commis- and free Internet. point. It is the only way, at present, to sion. My guess is that pretty soon— Openness is the internet’s heart. ensure a free and open internet, and probably tomorrow—the future of the Nondiscrimination is its soul. Any in- that is, by rejecting this idea that internet is going to be in the hands of fringement on either of those features somehow the internet is broken and we the Federal Communications Commis- undermines the spirit and intent of net should upend the current rules. The sion. neutrality. Federal Communications Commission I just want to wrap up my remarks So I proudly stand with my fellow should not only leave the current net by talking about how important it is netizens out on the Senate floor and all neutrality rules in place, they ought to for the American people to go online to across America who oppose any efforts aggressively move against companies the Federal Communications Commis- to undermine net neutrality. We are on that violate those rules. As my friends sion website and file a comment, and the right side of history. I am ready for from Massachusetts and Hawaii know, visit my website—wyden.senate.gov— the historic fight to come. there is not exactly a lot of evidence where you can get more information. Twelve years ago, I introduced the that the Federal Communications I will close with this: I think my first net neutrality bill in the House of Commission is doing that either. friends—certainly Senator MARKEY and Representatives. In the Senate, the Net neutrality, in short, protects the Senator SCHATZ—may have heard this. first net neutrality bill was introduced internet’s ability to give a fair shake I want to talk about the fight against by the Senator from Oregon, RON to every single person in America and internet piracy because we are all WYDEN. This has been a long battle, a literally in the world with a good against internet piracy. No one is in long struggle coming. We now have idea—they don’t have to have money. favor of that kind of thievery, but we America in its sweep spot, with net They don’t have to have lobbyists. didn’t think it made sense to damage neutrality on the books for software They don’t have to have PACs. All they the architecture of the internet—the and broadband companies, which al- have to have with net neutrality and domain name systems and the funda- lows for a fair balance in terms of the the internet is an idea to compete with mental principles by which the inter- competition in the marketplace. the establishment. This level playing net operates—in the name of fighting So I now turn and yield for the Sen- field is a prerequisite for protecting piracy. ator from Oregon, RON WYDEN. free speech. When there was a bill with a short- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- A level regulatory playing field sighted view—it was called SOPA and ator from Oregon. means that these powerful interests— PIPA—and it was introduced, scores Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I thank the cable companies, specifically— and scores of Senators supported it im- my friend from Massachusetts for not can’t pick winners and losers because mediately. I put a hold on this bill. I just today but all of the years in which of their political or personal views. Our put a public hold on the bill. I chaired he has led this battle. He is right. We colleague, Senator FRANKEN of Min- a little subcommittee of the Senate Fi- have served together now in both nesota, has correctly said that net neu- nance Committee. There were close to Chambers and, in fact, when I was here trality is the First Amendment issue of a majority of Senators already in sup- and he was in the other body, we our time, and I think he is spot-on on port of this flawed bill. We began to talked often about why this was such a that matter. talk to those around the country who bedrock principle. Finally, because there really hasn’t understand what it really means if you You know, sometimes you listen to been the competition in the broadband damage the internet and its architec- the head of the FCC and you get the marketplace that would best serve the ture for a shortsighted and, in this sense that somehow he is saying that consumer and the public, what you case, unworkable approach. the internet either is broken or is should definitely do is operate under Everybody thought we didn’t have a about to break—that some horrendous the theory that you need strong rules. chance of winning. There was very set of problems are going to ensue We all know that too many people close to a majority in the Senate actu- without his ill-advised ideas. The fact don’t have a choice when it comes to a ally cosponsoring it. So a vote was is that the internet is not broken. The broadband provider; often it comes scheduled on whether to lift my hold Federal Communications Commission down to Comcast or nothing. Without on this bill, the flawed PIPA and SOPA is not trying to help consumers by roll- real competition, America needs strong bill. ing back net neutrality protections. net neutrality rules to prevent Four days before the vote was to They are doing it to make it easier for Comcast or AT&T from basically toss- take place on whether to lift my hold, the big cable companies to be in a posi- ing consumer choice and free speech in 15 million Americans emailed, texted, tion to shove out true and real com- the trash can to rake in even more called, went to community meetings. petition. That, I would say to my profits. They went out all across the country. friend Senator MARKEY and my friend A lack of broadband competition and Mind you, these 15 million Americans from Hawaii, Senator SCHATZ, who has consumer choice is clearly a problem were focused and spent more time on- been championing these efforts in the you cannot solve by giving the big line in a week than they did thinking Commerce Committee, is what this is cable companies more freedom—free- about their U.S. Senator in a couple of really all about. dom to run at will through the market- years. You know, the reality is that the place. They said this defies common sense. internet is now the shipping lane for So the question now is—and I think We are not for internet piracy, but the 21st century. It is that place—a my friend from Massachusetts just don’t destroy the internet.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:53 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00019 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.036 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2992 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 My hope is, once again, with the odds looking at ways as part of the trans- Quite the opposite has occurred. stacked against our side—the odds formation of Medicare—what I call up- Since the rules went into effect, stacked against Senator SCHATZ, Sen- dating the Medicare guarantee—that AT&T’s share price has gone up more ator MARKEY, and all the Senators who some of the technologies my friend than 20 percent, Comcast has increased have been willing, on our side, to speak from Massachusetts talked about are 26 percent, and several ISPs have reas- up against these powerful interests going to be available to seniors. sured investors that net neutrality that really would like to gut net neu- I know our friend from New Hamp- would have no impact on their trality—that those who understand shire has arrived, and she has been a broadband investments. So this is just what the freedom of the net is all very strong advocate of principles of another ‘‘gimme’’ to big cable and in- about, what it means to have this abil- net neutrality. dustry stakeholders who want to put ity to communicate that is so vital to I yield the remainder of my time to profits ahead of customer service and people without clout and power, will her. consumer protections. take the fight for the consumer, for the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- In New Hampshire, innovative, small man and woman who just want a fair ator from New Hampshire. businesses are the backbone of our shake when they get an idea. My hope Ms. HASSAN. Thank you very much, economy, creating good jobs, stimu- is, just as they did a few years ago in Mr. President. lating economic growth, and net neu- blocking this ill-advised SOPA and I thank my friends from Oregon, trality has been integral to their suc- PIPA bill, that those who care so much Massachusetts, and Hawaii for their cess. More than 1,000 startups, innovators, investors, and entrepre- about freedom and a fair shot for ev- leadership on this very important issue neurial support organizations from erybody will, once again, take the fight concerning net neutrality. across the country, including the com- to the Federal Communications Com- Mr. President, I rise today in opposi- pany Digital Muse, in New Hampshire, mission, knowing that their voices can tion to the Federal Communications sent a letter to Chairman Pai urging make a difference. They have made a Commission’s proposal to undermine him to protect net neutrality rules. I difference in the past. critical net neutrality rules, which plan to fight to do just that. It is a real pleasure to be with Sen- would change the internet as we know it today. In giving entrepreneurs a level play- ator MARKEY and Senator SCHATZ. ing field to turn an idea into a thriving Mr. MARKEY. Mr. President, will the Tomorrow the FCC will vote on a notice of proposed rulemaking, which be- business that reaches a global audi- Senator from Oregon yield? ence, net neutrality helps promote in- Mr. WYDEN. I yield. gins the unraveling of commonsense novation and boost economic growth. Mr. MARKEY. Mr. President, as the consumer protections that enhance our By dismantling net neutrality rules, Senator from Oregon remembers so online experience. Net neutrality is a internet service providers will be al- well, when he and I started in Con- concept that requires internet service lowed to force small service providers gress, there was one telephone com- providers to provide equal access to on- to pay to play online, causing insta- pany. line applications and content. It pre- bility to startups and entrepreneurs Did we have innovation? Well, we had vents internet service providers from across the Nation who might not be a company winning Nobel Prizes in discriminating against content and able to afford such fees. Companies like basic research. Did we see applied re- content providers, discrimination that Digital Muse should be able to compete search out there, new technologies? No. can take the form of making certain based on the quality of their goods and web pages, certain applications, or vid- We saw a black rotary dial phone. So services, not on their ability to pay eos load faster or load slower than oth- AT&T had to get broken up so there tolls to internet service providers. would be new companies, new competi- ers. Net neutrality isn’t just good for Net neutrality is integral to pro- tion, new technologies. startups and entrepreneurs, it has also Ultimately, because of all of that ef- moting innovation, supporting entre- created a platform for traditionally fort toward deregulation to let more preneurs and small businesses, and en- underrepresented voices, including companies in, more innovations, we couraging economic growth in my women and minorities, to be heard and, now have devices that we walk around home State of New Hampshire and as important, to add to our economic with, which are just minicomputers in across the entire Nation. strength. Last week, my friend Senator In March, Washington Republicans, our pocket. We have millions of apps CANTWELL and I sent a letter with sev- that people sitting in any city and with the support of the Trump admin- eral of our colleagues to Chairman Pai town all across our country can de- istration, voted to take away critical highlighting the importance of net velop and get online to try to make a online privacy protections giving ISPs neutrality to women and girls across few bucks. the green light to collect and use a the country. An open internet serves as Ultimately, it is still that old AT&T consumer’s online data without the a platform to elevate voices that are mentality: How do we shut it down? consumer’s consent. So it is no surprise underrepresented or marginalized in How do we close it down? How do we that what corporate ISPs want next is traditional media, an experience many make it hard for the entrepreneur, to remove baseline protections that women in the field know all too well. hard for the innovator, hard for that allow even the softest voice to be heard When turned away from traditional new idea to get out there that makes it or the smallest of businesses to thrive media outlets, women can turn to the more productive, easier for the Amer- against larger competitors. internet as an autonomous platform to ican people to be able to have access to I have heard time and again from tell their stories in their own voices these new programs? Granite Staters who call and write to thanks to the vast array of media plat- I agree with the Senator from Oregon my office that we must fight to protect forms enabled by net neutrality. Be- that this is a pivotal time in our coun- the net neutrality rules, rules that cre- tween 2007 and 2016, while the total try’s entrepreneurial history. We have ate an even playing field and protect number of business firms in America learned this lesson over and over again. consumers from unfair practices. increased by 9 percent, the total num- The Senator has been a great leader on What we are seeing here in Wash- ber of women-owned firms increased by these issues, and I just want to com- ington is different. At the request of 45 percent, a rate five times the na- pliment him on that. I compliment the big cable companies and internet serv- tional average. This growth in women- Senator from Hawaii for his leadership ice providers, the Republican-con- owned business mirrors the emergence on the issue. trolled FCC, led by Chairman Ajit Pai, of the free and open internet as a plat- I yield back the remainder of my is taking aim at commonsense con- form for economic growth. Net neu- time to the Senator from Oregon. sumer protections that could change trality has been essential to the Mr. WYDEN. Mr. President, I thank the free and open internet as we know growth of women-owned, innovative my friend from Massachusetts. In fact, it. As rationale, Chairman Pai has businesses, ensuring them the oppor- I have to leave the floor right now to claimed that since net neutrality rules tunity to compete with more estab- wrap up business for a very important went into effect 2 years ago, invest- lished brands and content. Finance Committee meeting tomorrow. ments in U.S. broadband companies In addition to empowering women It is a markup where we are going to be have dropped to historically low levels. economically, an open internet has the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:53 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00020 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.037 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2993 ability to empower all citizens an open marketplace where everyone mination that has gotten us this far, civically. The National Women’s March can participate on equal footing, free net neutrality supporters can garner in January brought together hundreds from discrimination by companies like another win for the American people. of thousands of people to raise their Comcast, Verizon, and AT&T. I thank the Presiding Officer for this voices and organize in marches across The FCC responded by establishing opportunity to speak. the country and around the world, rules that are strong, clear, and en- I yield to my good friend from the largely through online activism. The forceable; rules that prevent broadband State of Hawaii. Women’s March and the many other providers from blocking or throttling The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- marches that have followed since Janu- lawful online content, and rules that ator from Hawaii. ary demonstrate how an open internet stop providers from charging websites Mr. SCHATZ. Mr. President, I thank can serve as a powerful mechanism for for access to fast lanes. Mr. FRANKEN for his leadership on this civic engagement and strengthening Perhaps, most importantly, the FCC issue. He is a person who understands communities. The open and free inter- implemented these rules within the the content industry and has been a net is too powerful of a tool for civic time-tested legal framework that al- fierce defender of people’s ability to engagement and social and economic lows the agency to respond to chal- view content online, people’s ability to mobility—especially for our underrep- lenges to net neutrality that arise in express themselves online, and under- resented populations—to take away. the future. Following the commonsense stands that a fair and open media mar- Strong net neutrality rules are abso- path I have long urged, the FCC recog- ketplace is central to our democracy. lutely essential. They protect against nized that broadband access is a title II I want to address one assertion that content discrimination, they prevent service—a classification that the DC was made by the proponents of repeal- internet toll lanes, they allow the FCC Circuit has upheld and had previously ing net neutrality; that is, that some- adequate room for oversight, and they signaled was necessary in order to es- how the investment climate under net require reasonable transparency from tablish strong rules. neutrality was harmed. They say there internet service providers. The rules The FCC’s vote to implement strong is some reason to believe that under also provide stability to our economy, net neutrality rules was an important net neutrality, the investment climate to our entrepreneurs, and our innova- victory for American consumers and was diminished, but the Internet Asso- tive small businesses—enterprises that for American business, and that vic- ciation published research today that are integral to New Hampshire’s and tory demonstrated the overwhelming addressed this very issue, and their America’s economic success. power of grassroots activism and civic findings show that since 2015, when the I will continue fighting to ensure participation. In 2014, millions of rules went into place, telecommuni- that our regulatory environment is one Americans from across the political cations investment has actually in- that spurs innovation, fosters eco- spectrum organized to ensure that creased. ISPs and their consumers are nomic growth, supports our small busi- their voices were heard, and in the enjoying historically low production nesses, and allows the next young per- process, they redefined civic engage- costs and innovation has increased. son with a big idea to prosper. I strong- ment in our country, but in the 21st Free Press also published a report on ly oppose rules that would undermine century, that kind of participation re- this question earlier this week, and net neutrality, and I hope the FCC lis- quires an open internet, a place where they found that investment in tens throughout the comment period to people can freely share information broadband by publicly traded compa- concerns from Granite Staters and and engage in meaningful public dis- nies actually went up after net neu- Americans who feel the same way. course. trality went into place. Here is what Thank you, Mr. President. Because of net neutrality, a handful the research director at the Free Press I see that my friend from Minnesota of multibillion-dollar companies can- had to say: ‘‘If investment is the FCC’s is here and wonder if he would like to not bury sites offering alternative preferred metric, then there is only one speak to this issue as well. viewpoints or attempt to control how possible conclusion—net neutrality and Mr. FRANKEN. I would. users get their information. Because of Title II are a smashing success.’’ Ms. HASSAN. I yield the floor. net neutrality, people from across the Here is the point. The internet is not The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- Nation can connect with each other, broken. There are parts of the economy ator from Minnesota. share their ideas on the internet, and that are not working well. We struggle Mr. FRANKEN. Thank you, Mr. organize a community effort. with manufacturing. We need to invest President. I have always called net neutrality in infrastructure. We have a trade im- I rise to discuss the Trump adminis- the free speech issue of our time be- balance. We have a higher education tration’s effort to undo the open inter- cause it embraces our most basic con- system that is not working for every- net order. Together we must protect stitutional freedoms. Unrestricted pub- body. We need to do more work in net neutrality and ensure that all con- lic debate is vital to the functioning of these areas, but the part of our econ- tent on the internet receives equal our democracy. Now, perhaps more omy that is working great for con- treatment from broadband providers than ever, the need to preserve a free sumers, for entrepreneurs, for the pri- regardless of who owns the content or and open internet is abundantly clear. vate sector, for engaged citizens is the how deep their pockets are. That is why I am so concerned about internet itself. Tomorrow, the FCC is Two years ago, American consumers Chairman Pai’s proposal to gut the going to endeavor to break it. and businesses celebrated the FCC’s strong net neutrality rules we fought Before I hand it over to someone who landmark vote to preserve the free and so hard for. has been working on these issues for open internet by reclassifying Tomorrow, the FCC will vote offi- many years, I want to point out that broadband providers as common car- cially to initiate a proceeding to undo nobody would have anticipated that riers under title II of the Communica- the open internet order, but, impor- the Affordable Care Act would still be tions Act. The vote came after the SEC tantly, American consumers and busi- on the books because of unprecedented received nearly 4 million public com- nesses will once again have an oppor- online and inperson organizing. ments, the vast majority of which tunity to make their voices heard. I The FCC has a very unique process urged the agency to enact strong rules hope the American people will contact where there is going to be a 3-month protecting net neutrality. the FCC, that they will remain engaged public comment period. The statute ac- Consumers urged the Commission to and willing to speak up, and that they tually allows the public to go and protect their unfettered and affordable will continue to use the internet to weigh in on what they think. The last access to content. A wide range of ad- spread ideas, organize support, and ul- time this happened when net neu- vocacy organizations pressed the Com- timately counter the deep-pocketed trality principles were being estab- mission to ensure that broadband pro- ISPs and the politicians who seek to lished, 3.8 million people commented. viders couldn’t pick and choose which undermine net neutrality. So far, before they even take their first voices and ideas would actually reach Two years ago, the best principles of formal action, there are 1.6 million consumers. Small and large businesses our democracy won out. I do believe people who have already commented. alike asked that the internet remain that with the same energy and deter- My guess is, by the time tomorrow is

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For that reason, I will fight it, to deter crime and keep our commu- mocracy still resides with the people. and I hope my colleagues will join me nities safer, but they do it all at great Somebody who has been working in the in this effort. risk—at great risk to themselves and trenches on this issue and many con- Mr. President, I yield the floor. at great sacrifice to their families. sumer issues for a very long time is my I suggest the absence of a quorum. A little more than a year ago, I did a great colleague, the senior Senator The PRESIDING OFFICER (Mr. ride-along in Columbus with Officer from Connecticut, and I will yield to GARDNER). The clerk will call the roll. Greg Meyer. He is one of those brave him as I realize I think I am standing The bill clerk proceeded to call the Columbus police officers who goes out at his dais. roll. every day to help keep our commu- Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. President, I ask The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- nities safe, and we were focused on a unanimous consent that the order for ator from Connecticut. couple of issues that night in Colum- Mr. BLUMENTHAL. Mr. President, I the quorum call be rescinded. The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without bus. begin by thanking my colleague and One was the drug trade, particularly objection, it is so ordered. friend Senator SCHATZ for his extraor- the opioid crisis we face in Ohio. He NATIONAL POLICE WEEK dinary leadership in this area that has was able to show me where much of Mr. PORTMAN. Mr. President, I rise brought us to the floor. I am proud to this activity occurs, and we were able during Police Week to pay tribute to speak against the Federal Communica- to see with our eyes some of the people our police officers around the coun- tions Commission Chairman’s proposed who were trafficking drugs, dispersing, try—the men and women in blue who order that is in fact slated for a vote at and what goes on in our communities. serve us every day in Ohio and in every the open commission meeting tomor- We were also talking about human State represented in this Chamber. trafficking and his work in that area. row morning. That vote would undo In Ohio, this is a particularly dif- the open internet order. ficult week. Here we are during Police We were able to go to some particular What is at stake here is, really, First Week, and we are, once again, mourn- places at which there had been traf- Amendment rights to free speech. ing the loss of a police officer. This ficking in the past and where the police Those rights are threatened. Net neu- happened just last Friday. Last Friday, had broken up trafficking rings in trality has never been more important. a gunman took two people hostage in which girls and women had been made Allowing broadband providers to block the woods behind a nursing home in to become dependent on heroin. Then or discriminate against certain content Kirkersville, OH, which is a small town the traffickers had them, often in a providers is a danger to free speech and about 25 miles east of Columbus. hotel for a week until they had moved the freedom of our press. These prin- The first one to arrive on the scene on to another one and trafficked— ciples are fundamental to our democ- was the police chief of this small town. sold—human beings, usually online, racy. We should safeguard them by His name was Steven DiSario. Chief usually through the iPhone. Again, stopping this proposed repeal of the Steven DiSario confronted the assail- this police officer was able to tell me open internet order. ant, and he was ambushed by this as- about what he has done and what his The internet’s astonishing economic sailant. He was shot. He was killed. force has done to help protect these success is due to its being open and the This gunman then went inside the girls and women and to help get them access that it provides as an open plat- nursing facility, and he murdered two out of that situation. form. Anyone with a good idea can con- staff members—a registered nurse, This was just a few hours for me, and nect with consumers. Anyone who Marlina Medrano, and a nurse’s aide I always enjoy doing these ride-alongs, wants to reach across the globe to talk named Cindy Krantz. Then he took his but this is his life and their lives every to others or to pitch and promote ideas own life. day. They are out there doing their and products encounters a level play- By the way, Police Chief Steven best to try to protect us and to make ing field, and that ought to be the re- DiSario was 36 years old and had just our communities safer. ality. become the police chief in Kirkersville The day before this tragedy occurred On February 25, 2015, the FCC adopt- a month ago. The women who were in Kirkersville, we had had a lot of po- ed the open internet order to preserve slain were Marlina Medrano, who had a lice officers here in town because, on that open nature of the internet. The son, and Cindy Krantz, who had five Thursday and Friday and over the order, essentially, embodies three kids, including a 10-year-old son. Those weekend, police officers had been com- rules—no blocking, no throttling, no kids had to spend Mother’s Day pre- ing in for Police Week and Police Me- paid prioritization. Those principles paring for their moms’ burials. morial Day, which was on Monday, so I are now at risk. In fact, they are in On Monday, I went to Kirkersville had a chance to meet with a bunch of grave jeopardy. Those principles guar- and saw the memorial there for the of- these officers and thank them for their antee people, within the bounds of the ficer. I also had an opportunity to meet service. law, access to different web content re- with some of the officers who were We talked about the fact that the job gardless of the political views ex- from neighboring communities. There is dangerous and increasingly dan- pressed and regardless of the wealth of was just one police officer in gerous. Unfortunately, the numbers a site. They assure that the internet is Kirkersville—just the chief. I was able show that. Little did we know that, the open—that it is not a walled garden for to express to them the sympathy and day after we had been talking, there wealthy companies. A lot is at stake the gratitude of the people throughout would have again been this tragedy in here, and consumers and others should Ohio. I had brought a flag that had Ohio. We talked about the fact that prevail because their interests are, ul- been flown over the U.S. Capitol in some of their families have had sleep- timately, what is involved. honor of Chief DiSario, and that flag less nights because they do not know Ultimately, the Administrative Pro- will go to his family as a very small whether their husbands or their wives cedure Act requires, in my view, that token of the appreciation and gratitude or their sons or daughters are going to Chairman Pai prove, through a fact- of all of us for their father’s and hus- be coming home. based docket, that something has sig- band’s service. In our Nation’s history, more than nificantly changed in the market since Chief DiSario had six kids, and his 21,000 police officers have died in the the open internet rule was established widow, Aryn, is currently pregnant line of duty. Think about that—21,000. in February of 2015. Without that with their seventh child—a child who is We have already had 42 this year, 2017. change in facts, the decimation of this never going to know his or her dad. In 2016, we lost 143, which is about one rule cannot be justified. We cannot What he or she will know is that he officer every 3 days. Again, last year, allow Chairman Pai to succeed in this died a hero, that he died a hero in risk- five of those fallen officers were from plan to gut neutrality at the behest of ing his life to protect innocent people. Ohio: Aaron Christian, a patrolman moneyed internet service providers. That is what police officers do every with the Chesapeake Police Depart- Chairman Pai’s proposal, if it succeeds single day. They keep us safe. They ment; Thomas Cottrell, a patrolman

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:53 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00022 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.040 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2995 with the Danville Police Department; I say this because her nomination to The President says he fired James Sean Johnson, of the Hilliard, OH, Di- the third most senior position at the Comey because James Comey wouldn’t vision of Police; Steven Smith, of the Department of Justice comes at an un- pledge loyalty to him. Apparently, Columbus Division of Police; and Ken- precedented time of chaos and up- pledging loyalty to the rule of law was neth Velez, an Ohio State trooper. heaval—not only at the Justice Depart- not as important. Most Americans I had the opportunity to meet with ment, but also at the White House, the don’t care whether the Director of the some of the families of these fallen of- Federal Bureau of Investigation, and FBI is a Republican or Democrat; they ficers to express our appreciation, to across much of this administration. just want him or her to be committed express our respect for them and the We should all agree that it is more to upholding the law, not a political sacrifices that they bear. It takes cour- important than ever that the Justice position. age to wear the badge, and those offi- Department be led by public servants Every lawyer knows that, when you cers wear the badge day in and day out. with independence and integrity. Un- are considering a legal question, you They knew what they were getting fortunately, President Trump’s Attor- begin with a statute or regulation at into. Yet they wore that badge; they ney General and Deputy Attorney Gen- issue. The relevant regulation, found in died wearing that badge. eral have failed this test. I did not ex- the Code of Federal Regulations, is Although these heroic men were pect Attorney General Sessions to worth reading in full. taken from us, their examples can show independence from the President, I ask unanimous consent that the never be taken away and will not be. which is why I voted against his nomi- regulation be printed in the RECORD at Ohioans are going to remember them nation. the conclusion of my statement. as models of bravery and service, as ex- But I had higher hopes for Deputy amples of fellow citizens who, on behalf Attorney General Rod Rosenstein. Mr. The rule requires that an inde- of all of us, were in the habit of walk- Rosenstein’s role in the dismissal of pendent special counsel be appointed if ing into danger rather than running FBI Director Comey and his willing- three conditions are met. away from it. ness to provide pretext for President The first condition is that a ‘‘crimi- We have an opportunity to do some- Trump’s interference in the Bureau’s nal investigation of a person or matter thing that will make a difference for ongoing Russia investigation has pre- is warranted.’’ This is not an open our police officers by supporting the cipitated a crisis of confidence in the question in this instance—there is al- Police Week resolution that the House Department. ready an active investigation. and the Senate are working on. I urge The Senate must take steps to re- The second condition is met when an all of my colleagues to support it, and store the independence of the Depart- investigation by the Justice Depart- I am sure they will. I think we need to ment of Justice. After reviewing her ment ‘‘would present a conflict of in- show our men and women in blue, who record and hearing her testimony at terest for the Department or other ex- are on the frontlines, that we do appre- her confirmation hearing, I am not traordinary circumstances.’’ If Mr. ciate them. confident that Rachel Brand is up to Rosenstein, a political appointee, were There is also legislation that can be that task. Like so many of the Presi- to lead this investigation, he may be supported. Most recently, with the ma- dent’s nominees, she carries a heavily forced to investigate both his imme- jority whip, I introduced legislation skewed, pro-corporate agenda that diate supervisor, the Attorney General, that is called the Back the Blue Act. It would do further harm to the Justice and the President. That is the defini- is very simple. It says, if you target Department and its independence. tion of a conflict of interest. That law enforcement officers, you are going Ms. Brand has long championed de- alone is enough. regulation and the rolling back of vital to have to pay a very high price. That But in this investigation, extraor- environmental, consumer, and labor is appropriate. We think the Back the dinary circumstances abound. Last regulations protecting the American Blue Act, which would increase pen- week, the President admitted that he people. Ms. Brand has justified indis- alties on those who would attempt to fired the official leading this investiga- criminate surveillance of Americans harm or kill a police officer, is going to tion because of ‘‘this Russia thing.’’ and defended broad assertions of Exec- make a difference because it will send His Deputy Press Secretary then said, utive power. She even refused to say a strong message and help deter some ‘‘We want this to come to its conclu- whether she would recuse herself from of these crimes. Ultimately, I think sion. . . . And we think that we’ve ac- matters involving the Chamber of that it will make our heroes in blue tually, by removing Director Comey, Commerce and the Chamber Litigation safer and help save lives. taken steps to make that happen.’’ Center, her current employer. I cannot Again, I urge my colleagues to join Yesterday, we learned that President support a nominee who lacks an inde- me in the wake of this terrible tragedy Trump may have also pressured the pendent voice. I will therefore vote we had in central Ohio. I know the peo- FBI Director to close the investigation against her nomination. ple of Ohio are looking for Congress to into Michael Flynn’s contacts with RUSSIA INVESTIGATION stand tall and to stand with our police Russian officials. If these are not ‘‘ex- Mr. President, every day seems to officers and to thank them for what traordinary circumstances,’’ then bring new, disturbing revelations in- they do to protect us every day. those words have no meaning at all. Let’s support this Police Week reso- volving this President and his adminis- lution. Let’s support the Back the Blue tration. I almost hesitate to say ‘‘every The third condition is met when ‘‘it Act. Let’s do everything we can to en- day’’ because sometimes it is every would be in the public interest to ap- sure that our police officers know that hour. point an outside Special Counsel.’’ I we are with them—that we are at their Yesterday’s report that the President cannot recall a more serious national side—as they do their job every day to pressured former FBI Director Comey security investigation. Russian inter- protect us. to terminate the ongoing investigation ference in our election, possible collu- Mr. President, I yield the floor. into Michael Flynn is extraordinary. If sion with the Trump campaign and ad- The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- true, the President’s conduct could ministration, and the President’s re- ator from Vermont is recognized. warrant charges for obstruction of jus- peated assaults on the rule of law have Mr. LEAHY. Mr. President, pending tice. eroded trust in our democratic institu- before the Senate is the nomination of Now, the notion that the Russia in- tions like nothing I have seen. Accord- Rachel Brand to be the Associate At- vestigation could be led by a political ing to the President’s own statements, torney General of the United States— appointee of this President, who serves this investigation has been repeatedly the United States, not of the President. at the pleasure of this President, is compromised by political interference. We once had an Attorney General preposterous; yet Senate Republicans Because all three conditions are met, who told us on the Judiciary Com- have attempted to justify Deputy At- the Deputy Attorney General does not mittee that as a member of the Presi- torney General Rosenstein’s failure to have a choice in this matter. It is not dent’s staff, it is not the Secretary of appoint a special counsel. Their argu- discretionary. The regulation requires Justice; it is the Attorney General of ments are wrong. I want to take a few that Mr. Rosenstein appoint a special the United States. minutes to explain why. counsel. Each minute that he refuses

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:53 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00023 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.042 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2996 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 to follow this rule, he further dimin- share with everyone here today. The there is no freedom without security. ishes the integrity of this investiga- story goes that there were three can- We are so used to this basic fact—that tion, as well as the integrity of the dles burning on a porch right across for most of us, most of the time we are Justice Department itself. the street from the Cornwell Funeral safe—that we forget how remarkable it I would ask anyone who still claims Home in Dardanelle, AR—my home- is. Not so many people on God’s green that a special counsel is not required town, just a couple blocks away from Earth can take that safety for granted. to reconcile their opinion with the Jus- my home. A family had lit them in the We often forget what it takes to secure tice Department rules. We may dis- memory of the three people who were it. We forget how easily we can lose agree on policy matters, but I hope we brutally murdered last week in it—and lose men and women like Lieu- all agree on the supremacy of the rule Chickalah, just a few miles outside of tenant Mainhart—in an instant. of law and that no person and no Presi- Dardanelle. It is with this in mind—this grave dent should be above it. One of those slain was Lieutenant understanding of what our safety re- I know some Republicans have ex- Kevin Mainhart of the Yell County quires—that I once again speak against pressed concerns about the integrity of Sheriff’s Department, who was killed continued efforts to water down Fed- this investigation in public, and many after he stopped a man wanted in a do- eral sentencing laws. I thought this ill- others have expressed it to me pri- mestic disturbance. In honor of his 5 advised idea had expired last year, es- vately. At this critical time, we cannot years of service to Yell County—on top pecially after Donald Trump’s election. stand on the sidelines. We have a con- of the 20 years of service he rendered to But advocates for criminal leniency stitutional requirement to act as a the West Memphis Police Depart- are at it again, even though violent check and balance on the conduct of ment—his fellow officers escorted in crime continued to rise in our cities for the President. That starts with joining their cruisers the white hearse car- 2 years straight, and law enforcement the call for a special counsel. rying his body from the State crime officers are being killed in the line of Mr. President, I love the Senate. I laboratory in Little Rock back to duty. think of the Senate as a place that can Dardanelle. I have already made my position be the conscience of our Nation. But The family across the street had lit a clear. If we want to take a second look more than that, I love the system of green candle, specifically for Lieuten- at punishments for first-time drug pos- government where we have real checks ant Mainhart, and the three candles session, let’s do that. But we should and balances. I respect the executive burned all the night. But as the hearse know that fewer than 500 people are in branch, the legislative branch, and the pulled into the funeral home, the green Federal prison for such offenses. If we judicial branch, but in my decades candle suddenly went out. want to clean up our prisons, rehabili- here, I have never seen such an assault You could say that it was nothing tate felons, and help them achieve re- by the President of the United States more than a strange coincidence, but I demption, by all means, let’s do that, on the integrity and the independence think there is something especially too. I would even consider a bill to of our Federal court system; the as- poignant about the sudden, tragic loss speed up review of inmates’ applica- sault on our free press, including the of Lieutenant Mainhart’s life so close tions for pardons and commutations, to suggestion that we should pass new to National Police Week, which began help the President exercise this con- libel laws to go after members of the on Sunday. Like that green candle, stitutional authority. But we should press who might dare criticize this ad- Lieutenant Mainhart lit up his commu- not—we should not—lower mandatory ministration; or the assault, of course, nity, and, like that flickering flame, minimums for violent crimes, repeat on the Congress; or the pitting of one his life was too brief. offenders, and drug trafficking. There religion against another—this under- Like every American this week, I is nothing compassionate about put- mines everything that has kept this wish to pay my respects to Lieutenant ting the lives of innocent people—and nation strong. It is not just our weap- Mainhart and the noble profession he our law enforcement officers—at risk. ons and our military. As General Clap- chose. One of the things which struck Lieutenant Mainhart isn’t the only per indicated the other day, if we break me about Lieutenant Mainhart’s death one. There were three police officers down our institutions of government, if was that it came so early in the morn- killed in the line of duty last year in we let them attack each other and ing. The stop occurred at 7:18 a.m. He Arkansas: Robert Barker in the break each other down, then they lose had the whole day and his whole life in McCrory Police Department, William credibility, and we as a country suffer. front of him. Cooper in the Sebastian County Sher- Our Nation is too great for this, and He was only 46 years old, but he had iff’s Office, and Lisa Mauldin in the we Senators in both parties have to made the most of his time on this Miller County Sheriff’s Office. Every stand up and help bring the country Earth. He was a husband, a father, an one of these losses was too steep a back together. Air Force vet, a beloved member of our price to pay, and unwise criminal leni- There being no objection, the mate- community. Hundreds of people don’t ency policies put at risk their fellow rial was ordered to be printed in the line the streets for just anybody. Yet, officers and our communities. RECORD, as follows: in a moment, he was gone—his family I know it is considered old-fashioned 28 C.F.R. § 600.1 GROUNDS FOR APPOINTING A bereft, our community in mourning. It to be tough on crime—or, even worse, SPECIAL COUNSEL. is a reminder of how precious and frag- cold-hearted and mean. But a man The Attorney General, or in cases in which ile every life really is. doesn’t put a lock on his door because the Attorney General is recused, the Acting It also goes to show just how brave Attorney General, will appoint a Special he hates those on the outside. He does Counsel when he or she determines that every police officer really is, because it because he loves those on the in- criminal investigation of a person or matter this is the risk they take every morn- side—his wife, his kids, all his family— is warranted and— ing. They put on the uniform, they kiss because they are the joy of his life. The (a) That investigation or prosecution of their families good-bye, and they go to men and women of law enforcement that person or matter by a United States At- work, never fully certain they will get don’t just protect their own families— torney’s Office or litigating Division of the home that night. Yet the ever-present they protect all of our families. Every Department of Justice would present a con- threat of death doesn’t hold them flict of interest for the Department or other day those men and women put their extraordinary circumstances; and down. It doesn’t hold them back. It lives on the line for their fellow citi- (b) That under the circumstances, it would doesn’t dim the brilliance of their serv- zens. The least we can do is to stand be in the public interest to appoint an out- ice. They give it their all, day after behind them and support them, both side Special Counsel to assume responsi- day, without giving it a moment’s for the work they do and for the lives bility for the matter. thought. That, to me, is the ultimate they lead. Mr. LEAHY. I yield the floor. sign of character—when you do the I yield the floor. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- right thing without even thinking I suggest the absence of a quorum. ator from Arkansas. about it. The PRESIDING OFFICER. The NATIONAL POLICE WEEK People like this are hard to come by. clerk will call the roll. Mr. COTTON. Mr. President, over the The sad truth is, we need a lot of them. The senior assistant legislative clerk weekend I heard a story I wanted to A free country always does, because proceeded to call the roll.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 00:53 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00024 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.043 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2997 Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I fore. It happened in the last few Russia. We also know he then lied to ask unanimous consent that the order months, of course, but it all came out the Vice President of the United States for the quorum call be rescinded. in the last 48 hours. about it. Those things happened during The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The American people are looking to the campaign and during the transi- objection, it is so ordered. Congress for answers in the face of this tion. RUSSIA INVESTIGATION assault on our democracy. It is our job Last week, former Acting Attorney Ms. KLOBUCHAR. Mr. President, I to give them the answers they deserve General Sally Yates and former Direc- rise today to discuss the recent firing and to right this ship. That is why I tor of National Intelligence James of FBI Director Jim Comey and Rus- continue to call for a special pros- Clapper reminded us—I was there in sian interference in our democracy. ecutor. Ever since the Attorney Gen- the Judiciary Committee—they re- Jim Comey was my law school class- eral had to recuse himself because of minded us that on the very day that mate, and I know that in my State he his own meetings and ties with Russia President Obama imposed those sanc- has a lot of respect from our agents and ever since this mess kept getting tions, that was when General Flynn— and also from law enforcement in gen- messier, I have been calling for a spe- the former National Security Advisor; eral in our State. cial prosecutor. I believe that is the the person charged with the most sen- When we had the stabbing in the mall way to go. sitive matters of U.S. national secu- in St. Cloud, MN—it was just with our Also, I have long called for an inde- rity—was contacted—the Ambas- police chief from St. Cloud—it was the pendent commission, and this is for a sador—and then he later lied to the FBI that came in and helped at the different purpose. As the Senate Intel- Vice President about that contact. crime scene and with other things, be- ligence Committee continues its bipar- I actually asked them specifically cause for a smaller police department tisan work, a special prosecutor and that after the fact that Flynn knew he it is difficult to deal with something the FBI would get to the bottom of any was on tape, that they knew that, that like that and because they also had criminal investigation. To me, the pur- there was a tape of him saying one work to do working with the commu- pose of an independent commission thing to the Russians and then another nity to calm people. would be to set the rules of the road so to a high-ranking official in America— The result was a good one because of that this doesn’t happen again and so that would be the Vice President—I the courageous work of an off-duty po- our country can protect itself. This asked them if that was material for lice officer. While people were injured, would be a panel of experts appointed blackmail. They both said definitively no one was killed, and the investiga- by both sides. Their focus could well be that it was. tion was completed. to take these facts but to put them Yet, when Sally Yates went to the This is just one example of the work into a future election, as in, what do administration twice for two formal the FBI has done when Director Comey we do when campaigns get information meetings with other people—this was in charge. I think we focus very that clearly is from a cyber attack wasn’t just a little heads-up at a cock- much on what goes on in this town, but from a foreign power? tail party; she actually went to the there are a lot of agents and law en- Our Founding Fathers have said that White House to inform them that she forcement out there who have deep re- our elections are precious and that believed the National Security Advisor spect for him. they should be protected from foreign had been compromised. What hap- Last week, when Director Comey was powers. Way back then, they were pened? They let him stay on for 18 fired, I came to the floor and said that thinking of Great Britain. Now we are days. And 2 days in, he was on an in the recent months foundational ele- thinking of Russia. Next time, it could hourlong call between Vladimir Putin ments of our democracy—including the be another country. We should have and the President of the United States rule of law—have been questioned, some rules of the road. of America. challenged, and even undermined. It is not that long ago that—I re- Then, of course, we have the fact Today I return to the floor with the member when Presidential campaigns that the Attorney General was forced same concern. would be given some information that to recuse himself from any involve- In the last 48 hours alone, we have they weren’t supposed to get from the ment with the Russia investigation be- learned that, in addition to sharing top opposing side, and they would actually cause he met with the Russian Ambas- secret intelligence information with return it to the opposing side. We could sador. Russia without checking about it go back to that kind of day. I will note that he met with the Rus- ahead of time—and we know Presidents We could also have the media have sian Ambassador just a few days after have the right to share information some rules of the road. Look at what President Obama and President Putin and declassify it, but in instances of happened with the recent French elec- had met at an international meeting. which we are aware, the President tion when there was a cyber attack At that meeting and then publicly checks with intelligence agencies there. The media didn’t put out every President Obama had said: No, I am ahead of time. Was this shared with an rumor and everything they got out of not pulling back these sanctions. Then ally? No. This was shared with Russia, that cyber attack; they showed some what happens? Jeff Sessions, who was a country that 17 intelligence agencies discretion. closely affiliated with the Trump cam- in the United States of America estab- Those are the kinds of things we paign, a surrogate for the campaign, lished was trying to undermine our could do with an independent commis- goes and meets with the Russian Am- election; Russia, which was found re- sion in addition to factfinding. bassador. sponsible for trying to shoot down and I will start with this special pros- Because of that and some things that successfully brought down a plane, ecutor. The stack of reasons why we happened in his confirmation hearing, killing innocent people in Ukraine; the need a special prosecutor is getting he has now recused himself from any same regime that has poisoned dis- higher and higher every day. Aides and matters regarding the investigation be- sidents; the same regime that has put surrogates of the Trump administra- tween Russia and this administration people to death for simply expressing tion during both the campaign and in and the campaign. an opinion that is different from Vladi- the transition were in contact with of- In addition to the recusal, we have mir Putin’s. That is the country with ficials from a foreign government that seen two people resign, as I noted: the which the President chose to share this was actively working to tear our de- campaign manager, the campaign information. mocracy apart. That is pretty much es- chair, and the National Security Advi- What else happened in the last 48 tablished. sor. The one thing they have in com- hours? Well, President Trump allegedly We know that the campaign chair for mon is Russia and President Trump. urged Director Comey—this news the Trump campaign had to step down We have seen three people fired. One dropped in the last 48 hours—to end the because of his ties to Russia. We know is Sally Yates, who was the Acting At- investigation into ties between Russia that General Flynn was on the phone torney General of the United States. and General Flynn and to put reporters with the Russian Ambassador on the While the reasons given for her firing who publish classified leaks in prison. very day President Obama declared he were, of course, related to the refugee This was information I didn’t know be- wanted to expand sanctions against order, in fact, she was fired on the very

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00025 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.045 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S2998 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 same day she had gone to the White When I came back from my trip with tinue doing this. We do not need to em- House to talk to them about General Senator MCCAIN and Senator GRAHAM bolden them. Flynn. We have Preet Bharara, who to Ukraine, the Baltics, and Georgia, I What message does it send when the was fired after saying he could stay on. made it very clear—I remember speak- President urges the person in charge of He was the U.S. attorney in Manhat- ing to my colleagues about this—that the investigation into Russia’s election tan, in a very major position to inves- what we saw there made me even more interference to let it go? It is not one tigate these kinds of issues and crimes. concerned about the finding of our in- of vigilance in seeking the truth and And then, of course, we have Jim telligence agencies because those coun- fighting against a foreign adversary. Comey. The one thing they all have in tries have seen this movie over and An independent commission of non- common is that they were all inves- over again where Russia has cyber at- partisan experts can get to the bottom tigating various facets of this. tacked them. It happened in Lithuania of this and tell us how we can prevent In fact, Director Comey, as I noted— just because they had the audacity to this from happening again. They can who had gotten support and respect invite members of the Ukrainian Par- provide recommendations to help pre- from law enforcement—was fired the liament from Crimea, who were in exile vent future attacks on our democracy same day Federal prosecutors issued in Kiev, for their 25th anniversary, and from being successful. grand jury subpoenas to Michael they got hacked into. It happened in In addition to a special prosecutor Flynn’s associates, just days after Estonia, where they moved a bronze and independent commission, we also Comey requested more resources, ac- statue out of a public square and into need our congressional committees to cording to news reports, to carry out the cemetery with other statues of sol- continue to exercise their oversight au- the Russia investigation, and 2 days be- diers. But this was a Russian soldier. thority. Since the election, we have fore he was scheduled to testify pub- The Russians didn’t like it. This was in heard a lot about the three branches of licly before the Senate Intelligence 2007. What did they do? They shut down government and our system of checks Committee, where Members of that the internet for the entire country. and balances. One of the fundamental committee were going to ask him This is not just a single incident in- jobs of Congress is to closely oversee about Russia. volving one candidate or one political the executive branch to ensure that the Think about it. The independent gov- party or one election or even one coun- law is being properly followed and en- ernment officials who are charged with try; this is something widespread. It is forced. That means we need congres- getting to the truth, no matter where an attack on democracy. sional committees to continue their in- it leads, were fired. And the President That is why, when I came back from vestigation into Russian inference in of the United States reportedly now— that trip, I stood with Senator CARDIN our political system. We have subpoena and this is what we have learned in the and House Members ADAM SCHIFF and power for that reason, and we need to last 48 hours, and of course we want to ELIJAH CUMMINGS to stand up for a bill, use it. There are tapes. The President get to the bottom of the evidence, but which has a number of other sponsors, says there may be tapes. Of course, re- according to news reports, he urged the to create an independent, nonpartisan dact the classified information. We FBI Director to end the investigation commission to uncover all the facts don’t want to hurt anyone any further into the ties between Russia and Mike and make sure future elections and po- from what has been happening in the Flynn. litical campaigns are safeguarded from last few weeks. But we should see the We owe it to the American people to foreign interference. transcripts. We should have the tapes. get to the bottom of what is going on For months, U.S. intelligence agen- There is bipartisan support for turning here. It is our job to get to the bottom cies—17 of them—have said that Russia over this material, including the of this. The President can’t fire Con- used covert cyber attacks, espionage, memos prepared by Director Comey. gress. He can fire the Acting Attorney and harmful propaganda to try to un- (Mr. LEE assumed the Chair.) General. He can fire the FBI Director, dermine our democracy. Reports show Today Senators GRASSLEY, FEIN- although I think it is very important it. The facts prove it. Some $200 mil- STEIN, GRAHAM, and WHITEHOUSE sent a that we get to the bottom of why the lion dollars was spent alone on Russian letter to the FBI and White House FBI Director was fired and whether it TV on our own election. Much of it was Counsel requesting these documents. was for the reasons that were given in passed out on the internet. Many of my colleagues on both sides of the memo that was prepared by the Last week, the former Director of the aisle understand the importance of Justice Department or whether it was National Intelligence, James Clapper, doing our jobs to get to the bottom of because of what President Trump has testified that Russia will continue to this. The ongoing bipartisan Intel- said—that it was related to Russia—or interfere in our election system. This ligence Committee investigation is whether was because at one point he is what he said: vital to addressing the covert and clas- said he wasn’t doing his job, which is I believe [Russia is] now emboldened to sified aspects of Russian interference, not what I have heard from agents on continue such activities in the future both but we also need transparency because the street. The one group the President here and around the world, and to do so even the American people deserve to know cannot fire is right here in this room. more intensely. If there has ever been a clar- as much as possible about what hap- The President cannot fire the U.S. Sen- ion call for vigilance and action against a pened and how we are going to prevent ate. The President can’t fire the House threat to the very foundation of our demo- it in the future. of Representatives. He is not above the cratic political system, this episode is it. That is why I fully support the Judi- law. Vigilance. He said that Russia felt ciary Committee hearings that Sen- This administration cannot inves- emboldened by what happened. What ators GRAHAM and WHITEHOUSE have tigate itself. We have the ongoing and happened in the last 48 hours? We find held in the Subcommittee on Crime important investigation led by bipar- out that he had given high-level intel- and Terrorism. I also believe, as a tisan leaders, Senator BURR and Sen- ligence to the Russians before we gave member of the Judiciary Committee, ator WARNER. That is important and it to any of our allies, before we that if the Director is to testify— must continue. We also need a special checked it out with intelligence agen- former Director Comey—he should prosecutor to look into the President’s cies. That actually emboldens them. come before the Judiciary Committee most recent conduct and all contacts We find out that, in fact—because Di- because these are matters related to between Trump campaign aides and rector Comey kept such meticulous his service as an FBI Director. They surrogates and Russian officials during notes, we find out that allegedly the are related to the justice system, to the campaign, the transition, and the President asked him to discontinue the the criminal justice system, and we administration. This prosecutor must investigation into General Flynn. What should hear from him. be fair and impartial and completely does that do? That emboldens Russia I hope Senator GRASSLEY has re- unattached to either political party. even more. quested that he come before our com- Above all, this prosecutor must be What former Director Clapper was mittee. I am aware that the Intel- comfortable speaking truth to power. telling us was that we need vigilance. ligence Committee also would like him In addition to a special prosecutor, We need oversight. We need to send a to come, but I think it is important, we need an independent commission. clear message that they cannot con- given the substance of what is at issue

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00026 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.052 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S2999 here. Yes, he should appear before In- day out, sometimes we go an entire day County Chamber of Commerce, David telligence about ongoing matters re- or week without talking about the peo- Connell. This is the kind of guy you lated to the Russian investigation, but ple who make America work: the entre- really appreciate. He worked for 40 there is also the issue of the fact that preneurs, the employees, the employ- years at the Georgia Power Company. he was fired. We heard one thing in a ers, the people who run the businesses, He had 12 different titles in 40 years. memo from the Justice Department, pay the taxes, and employ the citizens He was a great employee of that com- we heard one thing from the White who make this country go. pany, a great member of the commu- House, we heard another thing from Today, I rise to talk about two citi- nity of Cobb County, a great private the White House, and then we heard zens from my home county, Cobb Coun- citizen, and great personal friend of another thing from the President. That ty. First is David Hankerson. David an- mine. is all true. We need to get to the bot- nounced this week his retirement after After 40 years of working there and tom of this. being employed by our county for 33 retiring, the county had a big problem. On Monday, Republican Senator BOB years. He came to the community de- The chamber of commerce had a scan- CORKER said that the administration velopment department of the county 33 dal. It couldn’t find a leader and was was in a ‘‘downward spiral.’’ He used years ago, and 11 years later, he be- losing its effectiveness. David volun- the word ‘‘chaos.’’ That was before we came the first county manager of the teered to go in as a chamber board even knew that the President may county and served in that position for member and spent 1 year as chamber have urged the FBI Director to end the a record 24 years. During that time, the leader. He stayed there 15 years and led Russia investigation and put reporters county doubled, not just in its popu- the chamber to new heights unprece- in prison. This is an unprecedented lation, but tripled and quadrupled in dented in our State and in our county: time in our country’s history. its revenue. It did new and different an AAA bond rating in our county, new The Presiding Officer, having written and innovative things. As tax rates businesses coming and relocating, and a book on the Constitution, knows that went down, productivity went up. Its even the now-famous relocation of the one of our jobs is to stand by that Con- popularity as a place to locate became Atlanta Braves from downtown At- stitution. Yet we are witnessing a sin- preeminent. He is one of the shining lanta to suburban Cobb County—one of gular moment of constitutional and stars in the State of Georgia today, in the rare moves a professional team has democratic unease. Cobb County. ever made smoothly and easily. They On this day in 1973, the Senate Select I rise for a special reason to pay trib- made it because of David Connell. Committee on Presidential Campaign ute to David Hankerson, however, be- David will tell you that when the Activities began televised hearings on cause he represents something I was a chamber board found out the Braves Watergate. One week later, Professor part of in 1984. At the time he was were interested in maybe talking about Archibald Cox was sworn in as special being hired, I did not know him as an building a $750 million facility in the Watergate prosecutor. Like Director employee for the county; I was in the county, they asked David if he would Comey, who was leading the investiga- State legislature, trying to change the stay until that was accomplished. He tion into Russian interference in our government for our county from an made the commitment to do so, and it election, Archibald Cox was eventually elected CEO to an appointed county took 31⁄2 years—31⁄2 long years. It was a fired by the President for doing his job. manager, a professional operator of the lot of effort, all in a circuitous nature The night that Archibald Cox was fired county. That had not been done in because of the popularity of the Braves by President Nixon for investigating Georgia. In other parts of the country, and what would have happened had it Watergate, he said: ‘‘Whether ours it had been done successfully. You had gotten out as a rumor that they were shall continue to be a government of continuity of leadership—someone coming. laws and not of men is now for Con- whose job was to be a good leader, who David closed that deal this year. The gress and ultimately the American peo- wasn’t an elected politician, someone Braves opened this season in a new sta- ple.’’ He was right. who could do the job. dium. With three-quarters of a billion The American people deserve a thor- David Hankerson was hired to do dollar investment having been made, ough, independent investigation into that job in Cobb County, GA. He did the county is more prosperous. David whether this administration obstructed one of the most remarkable jobs any- Connell made it happen. justice and the extent of Russia’s inter- one has ever done. In fact, the great He announced this week that he is reference in the 2016 Presidential elec- testimony is that every year since he tiring after 40 years at the power com- tion. They need to know it because we was there—24 years ago as county man- pany and 15 years at the Cobb County are a democracy. We don’t hide things ager—someone has tried to hire him Chamber of Commerce. like this. We get the facts. We get the away from Cobb County. Every year he I want to take a moment on the floor truth, the whole truth, and nothing but decided to stay because he once had of the Senate to say thank you to the truth. That is what our democracy said: I have made a commitment. As David Connell for what he has done for is about, and that is what our justice long as the commitment is returned by our county and our community, for our system is about. But they also need to the community to me, I am going to citizens and our families, and how know it because our democracy is the stay and see it through. proud I am as one of his friends. I basis of our freedoms. If we don’t pro- On this day, as I rise on the floor of thank him for a job well done. tect our democracy in the coming elec- the U.S. Senate to pay tribute to David David, thank you. We are proud of tions, then we hurt those freedoms. Hankerson, I pay tribute equally to all you. God bless you, and God bless the The only way we figure out how we are those who make our government work, United States of America. going to protect that democracy is get- our businesses work, our communities I yield back. ting to the bottom of the truth, so we work, and our country work, to the The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- can figure out how to prevent it from men and women laboring in the fields ator from Colorado. happening in the future. This is not a and toiling in the vineyards, working WELCOMING BACK SENATOR ISAKSON partisan issue; this is an American in the shops, working in the offices Mr. GARDNER. Thank you, Mr. issue, and Americans deserve answers. who make America the great country President. Thank you, Mr. President. it is today, and to the great chambers It is great to have our colleague from I yield the floor. of commerce that make it happen as Georgia on the floor of the Senate once The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- well. again, doing the outstanding job that ator from Georgia. I pay great tribute to David he has always done for the people of TRIBUTE TO DAVID HANKERSON AND DAVID Hankerson and thank him for the con- Georgia, recognizing the great individ- CONNELL tribution and sacrifice he made to the uals back home who make Georgia Mr. ISAKSON. Mr. President, we de- people of Cobb County, GA, and the such a great State, and we are just bate a lot of heavy things in the United State of Georgia. blessed to have him here. I thank him States Senate. We make tough deci- Mr. President, I would like to pay for his continued service for the people sions. Decisions of the fate of our coun- tribute to one other Georgian, the re- of Georgia and the people of this country lie in the balance. But day in and tiring chairman and CEO of the Cobb try.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00027 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.053 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S3000 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 WELL WISHES TO SENATOR TILLIS do a wellness check or maybe to ask harsh prison sentences. When those in- I am also grateful to be standing at a why they haven’t heard from an elderly dividuals are eventually released, they desk that is next to the desk of our col- relative or maybe a call because they are branded with the scarlet letter that league THOM TILLIS, the Senator from saw a broken window and they are con- closes doors to employment and oppor- North Carolina. I am glad he is ‘‘up and cerned about what is happening inside. tunity. It is a system that swallows up at ‘em’’ today after a little bit of a We call on them each and every day people whole and spits them out with startle this morning. to protect our communities. While we nothing. NATIONAL POLICE WEEK honor and celebrate the men and Americans are very familiar with the Mr. President, I rise to talk about women protecting us this week, we difference between those two justice the sea of blue that is in Washington, must also remember our fallen heroes. systems. We saw the difference after DC, this week. Monday was National Their courage is unparalleled. They the worst financial crisis in a genera- Police Day. This week, we celebrate went to work each and every day fac- tion, when Wall Street tycoons who National Police Week. Law enforce- ing risks that most of us find unimagi- gambled away the life savings of work- ment personnel—men and women from nable, never expecting their end of ing Americans walked away free as a around the country—are in Washington watch to occur on that day. bird. We saw it in the War on Drugs to share their incredible commitment, In Colorado and across the country when countless Black and Brown peo- their stories of sacrifice, courage, and last year, tragedy struck far too many ple were shoveled into prisons, where the work they have done to protect our times. Last year, Colorado lost three they wasted their lives away. communities. Indeed, they are the men in the line of duty, three men who We need to fix this problem. We frontlines of protection for our commu- will never be forgotten by the people of should be devoting every resource we nities. Colorado or their families, their com- have to fixing this problem. That These incredible men and women in munities. starts with the Justice Department, Colorado and across the country put Earlier this week, I met with the the agency responsible for ensuring their lives on the line each and every family of one of these fallen heroes, that nobody is above the law, and ev- day to keep us safe. Corporal Nate Carrigan. Nate Carrigan, eryone—everyone is held accountable. They put their lives on the line each a sheriff’s deputy for Park County, was Unfortunately, it has been pretty and every day to keep us safe. While a role model in the community and clear to me for some time now that they don’t do this work—this sacrifice, someone who took great pride in pro- President Trump’s Justice Department this commitment—selfishly or for cred- tecting the people and the area he is pushing as hard as possible in the op- it or recognition, I think all of us in loved. The pride and love Nate’s family posite direction. For much of President the Senate this week join together have for the work their son did to keep Obama’s second term, prosecutors were when we say that we are happy to see his community safe is unexplainable. allowed some discretion to consider the so many of them in the Nation’s Cap- We also lost a sheriff’s deputy, Derek unique circumstances of each case and ital for this National Police Week. Geer, this past year in Colorado, and make a measured decision about when I will never forget one time when we we lost Cody Donahue in Colorado in to ask for the most serious charge with were out in Colorado and we were at a 2016. All of them were memorialized the maximum penalty or when to ask September 11 commemoration service. this week. We celebrated their lives for less. Our son Thatcher—he is 5 years old this week, and I hope their families It worked. Jail time for low-level now; at the time, he was probably know and recognize that we will al- drug offenses went down. States saved about 4 years old. It was just last year ways hold them and their loved ones in money, and lives were not irretrievably that we walked by a group of police of- our prayers. They will always be a part broken. Last week, that modest ad- ficers who were there working that of our community’s fabric, knowing vance came to an end. Attorney Gen- day. We were talking about the loss of each and every day we rely on them to eral Sessions directed prosecutors to so many first responders and law en- provide our own families with protec- charge individuals with the harshest forcement personnel and that Sep- tion. sentences possible. ‘‘Lock them up’’ tember 11 day in 2001, so many years Mr. President, thank you. seems to be his approach—but not in ago now, it seems. But I remember tell- I yield the floor. all cases. Jeff Sessions sings a very dif- ing our son Thatcher—I said: Thatcher, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- ferent tune when it comes to white-col- what do we say to police officers? I was ator from Massachusetts. lar crime. He believes corporations thinking his response would be, thank Ms. WARREN. Mr. President, I rise should not be punished for the actions you. I said: You should go tell them in opposition to Rachel Brand’s nomi- of their executives. Don’t punish the that. You should go tell that to the po- nation to the No. 3 spot in the Justice companies for a few bad CEO apples. lice officer. Department. Now, there are many rea- In Jeff Session’s world, we should He walked up to the police officer sons I am opposed to this nomination, throw the book at criminals, unless and he got a little nervous—4 years old. but those reasons are all grounded in a they are rich and powerful. Now, Presi- I said: What do you say, Thatcher? central question facing America today: dent Trump has chosen to somewhat Again, I was thinking he would say: Whom does this government work for? help Jeff Sessions carry out his vision. Thank you. Instead, he looked up at Does it work just for the rich and pow- His choice to be the third highest rank- the police officer and he said: You are erful? Does it work just for the well ing official at the Justice Department a hero. connected? Does it work just for the is Rachel Brand, the nominee for Asso- It kind of choked me up a little bit. billionaire in the White House or does ciate Attorney General. I didn’t say that to him; that was it work for everyone? She is well equipped to carry out something that this 4 year old knew in- One of the worst kept secrets in that soft-on-white-collar-crime ap- stinctively—knew from the work they America is that there are two justice proach. She has extensive experience— had done around communities, the con- systems; one for the rich and powerful years of experience—fighting on behalf versations he has been a part of. At 4 and one for everyone else. The first jus- of the biggest and richest companies in years old, he knew the work they do to tice system is an exclusive club for the world. She spent years leading the protect us. giant corporations and wealthy indi- Chamber of Commerce’s assault on the They are heroes. They show the high- viduals. In that justice system, serious rules that protect working families, est amount of courage one can imag- crimes are punished with a slap on the evidently deciding time after time that ine. They run toward danger without wrist and a small fine. Taxpayers bail it is corporations that should get every hesitation to keep us safe and to pro- out corporations that stole the life sav- break. tect our communities. ings, and wealthy criminals go back to As the head of regulatory litigation We ask an incredible amount of our their lives without missing a beat. of the chamber of commerce, Ms. law enforcement time and again. They The second justice system is for Brand worked to dismantle environ- are answering the call, whether that is those who can’t buy their way out of mental rules that prevent companies a call wondering why someone hasn’t prison time. In that system, minor, from poisoning our air and water. She moved a car for several days, a call to nonviolent offenses are punished with worked to shield financial companies

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00028 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.054 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3001 from accountability when they broke VENEZUELA girlfriends, and boyfriends—are on the the law or did not play by the rules. Mr. RUBIO. Mr. President, I come to other side of the protest lines. Their She worked to end the employment the floor today to speak about an fellow Venezuelans are on the other rules that prevent companies from emerging crisis in our hemisphere in side, and they are being tasked to do abusing their workers. the nation of Venezuela. It has been this. If she is confirmed to the No. 3 spot covered extensively in the press. I I just say to them: Remember what at the Justice Department, she can wanted to come today with an update your oath was. To the members of the watch out for giant corporations from and a suggestion, a request of the ad- national guard in Venezuela, remember her perch right inside the government. ministration about a step we can take. that your job is to protect the people of The Brand nomination is just another First of all, I am very pleased that Venezuela, not to oppress them. predictable move from a President who today our Ambassador to the United Beyond what we see there—the inno- clearly believes that one set of rules Nations, Nikki Haley, scheduled a dis- cent people dying because of the dicta- should apply to the rich and powerful, cussion at the U.N. Security Council torship trampling the will of the people and another set of rules should apply with regard to Venezuela. It was not an and destroying their democratic insti- to everyone else. open press discussion. Again, it showed tutions—one of the specific things that We all remember Donald Trump’s extraordinary leadership, and I thank Maduro has done to become a dictator promise during the campaign that he her for her work and for doing so. This is he has undercut and frankly tried to was going to drain the swamp. Well, it deserves attention. wipe out the authority of their Na- is 118 days in, and the swamp is bigger, By the way, Venezuela is a country tional Assembly, which is their uni- deeper, uglier, and filled with more that is blessed with natural resources. cameral legislative body. The way he corrupt creatures than ever. Over the It was once Latin America’s richest has done that is by highjacking the su- last several days, President Trump has country, but today the people of Ven- preme court of the country, and they made it perfectly clear that he believes ezuela are literally starving, its finan- call it the Supreme Tribunal of Jus- he should be above the law. cial system has collapsed, and there tice. It is packed with puppets who do After he fired FBI Director James are, as you have seen from the press re- his bidding. As an example, these pup- Comey, Trump went on national tele- ports, massive protests in the streets. pets recently ruled that they would re- vision and told the world that he fired Its once proud democracy is now in the scind the democratic powers vested to Comey, in part, because Comey was hands of a dictator, Nicolas Maduro, the elected members of the National leading an investigation into ties be- and his cronies and thugs, who have Assembly by the constitution of that tween the Trump campaign, the Trump plunged that nation into a constitu- country. In essence, they ruled that the administration, and Russia. Trump tional crisis. They are using violence National Assembly no longer had legis- said top of mind when he fired Comey and bloodshed to suppress and silence lative authority. The protests were so was ‘‘this Russia thing with Trump.’’ citizens speaking out against the re- massive, even within the government, Now we have learned that he appar- gime’s corruption and its abuse of po- that they had to backtrack from that ently pressured Comey in private meet- litical prisoners. ruling. ings to drop aspects of the Russia in- What the people of Venezuela are Here is what is interesting. This is a vestigation before he fired him. It is a calling for is pretty straightforward: recent opinion piece written by Francis basic presumption of our democracy free and fair elections as called for Toro and Pedro Rosas in the Wash- that politicians cannot interfere with under the Constitution of that country, ington Post which said it best: ‘‘Be- the law enforcement investigations a return to representative democracy— ware Maikel Moreno, the hatchet man into their own potential wrongdoing, the democracy they once had. They are who runs Venezuela’s supreme court.’’ but President Trump openly admitted paying for these requests with their Here is what they wrote: trying to interfere with an ongoing in- blood and even their lives. According Moreno, a former intelligence agent, was to the most recent reports, dozens of tried and convicted of murder in 1987, though vestigation, and he clearly believes the corroborating documents from the court there should be no consequences for people have been killed, including teen- system are no longer available. . . . He spent himself. agers. The Washington Post reported just two years in jail before being released. I understand that President Trump yesterday the recent deaths of 18-year- He was then immediately implicated in a thinks he should be able to decide what old Luis Alviarez, who was killed by a second killing, in 1989, for which he was investigations into his dealings go for- bullet to the chest, and 17-year-old charged but never tried. ward and what investigations get Yeison Mora Cordero, who died from a He was a loyalist of Hugo Chavez, stopped on the spot. I understand that bullet to the head. and he became a judge in the early President Trump thinks he should be There were two reports today in the 2000s. His ‘‘career as a judge hit a snag able to pack his Justice Department press of great interest, one from the in 2007,’’ Toro and Rosas note, ‘‘when full of people who will watch out for New York Times and one from the he was removed from the bench for billionaire CEOs and giant corpora- Washington Post. Both documented the ‘grave and inexcusable’ errors after re- tions. After all, he has packed other plight of members of the national leasing two murder suspects against agencies with similar people. guard who have been tasked with the orders from the Supreme Tribunal. The I understand that is what President job of suppressing the protests in the government handed him a new job as a Trump thinks, but he is wrong. One of street. The gist of the articles was this: diplomat abroad. After a few years out the things that makes our democracy These people who are putting on these of sight, he was appointed a supreme strong is that we believe no one is uniforms—they didn’t sign up for this. court justice in 2014.’’ above the law, not CEOs, not giant cor- They signed up for security. They Then in 2017, Moreno—not once but porations, and not the President of the signed up to protect the people of Ven- twice a killer—was appointed the chief United States. It is up to the Senate to ezuela, not to oppress them. justice of Venezuela’s supreme court. remind the President of that fact. We They, too, are suffering from poor The Venezuelan supreme court is run can start by rejecting the nomination food. There was one article that said by a murderer. Think about that. A of Rachel Brand to serve as Associate that basically breakfast in the morning convicted criminal is presiding over Attorney General. I ask everyone who for the national guard in Venezuela Venezuela’s supreme court. So it is no believes in the promise of equal justice consists of a boiled carrot or a potato, wonder that the court’s members have under the law to do the same. and then they are sent to the streets acted as a rubberstamp for Maduro’s il- (The remarks of Ms. WARREN per- for hours. Then they come back and legitimate power grab, and they have taining to the introduction of S. 1162 maybe have an arepa, which is a corn created a political and a humanitarian are printed in today’s RECORD under cake, and, if they are lucky, some but- crisis. ‘‘Statements on Introduced Bills and ter. They, too, are suffering from this. Venezuelans, as I said, are struggling Joint Resolutions.’’) Here is the most enlightening part of to get basic goods, like food and medi- Ms. WARREN. I yield the floor. this: A lot of their family members— cine, and access to basic services. The The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- their mothers, fathers, brothers, sis- Wall Street Journal reported that Ven- ator from Florida. ters, loved ones, husbands, wives, ezuelans have lost, on average, 19

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We are currently lurching from crisis ernment that respects the rule of law By the way, this is the same man to crisis, and we must pause for a mo- and the constitution. who about a week ago was caught on ment and consider what is at stake; I believe it is the responsibility and camera, with a straight face, asking a namely, the security and the future of the duty of the nations of the Western cow to vote for a constitutional ref- our democracy. Hemisphere, including our Nation, to erendum he is seeking to pass. I don’t My Democratic colleagues and I have help the Venezuelan people. Article 20 even think the cow would support him repeatedly called for a special pros- of the Inter-American Democratic at this point in Venezuela. ecutor to take over all of the Russia- Charter states: Mr. President, I hope President related investigations, and recent In the event of an unconstitutional alter- Trump in the next few days or weeks events show that the need for a special ation of the constitutional regime that seri- will act against these individuals who prosecutor is greater now more than ously impairs the democratic order in a have carried out this coup d’etat ever. It is time to put country over pol- member state, any member state or the Sec- against democracy in Venezuela and itics, and it is time for a transparent retary General may request the immediate have plunged this proud nation and convocation of the Permanent Council to un- and thorough investigation into these dertake a collective assessment of the situa- proud people into a constitutional, hu- concerns. If there is no wrongdoing, tion and to take such decisions as it deems manitarian, and economic crisis. then the President should not be con- appropriate. I yield the floor. cerned about getting the American The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- This is what must be done because if people the truth they deserve. Our con- ator from Michigan. stituents need to have their faith re- we fail to help the Venezuelan people Mr. PETERS. Thank you, Mr. Presi- in their time of need and if the worst dent. stored in our institutions and that will comes to pass, what will follow will not Mr. President, I rise to speak in op- require transparency, integrity, and be confined to the Venezuelan borders. position to the nomination of Rachel professionalism from officials at the The United States as a result, I hope, Brand to be the Associate Attorney Department of Justice. should impose sanctions against cor- General. I joined the vast majority of my col- rupt individuals—not the government, The Associate Attorney General is leagues in supporting the confirmation not the people; individuals—respon- the third-most senior position at the of Rod Rosenstein to serve as Deputy sible for human rights violations, nar- Department of Justice. During these Attorney General with the belief that cotics trafficking, money laundering, troubling times, I cannot in good con- he would bring a voice of reason to the undermining the country’s democratic science support Ms. Brand’s nomina- Department of Justice. The results process. President Obama began that tion. have been, needless to say, dis- process. President Trump actually The American public must have faith appointing. With the current state of sanctioned some additional people ear- in its institutions, and unfortunately this Justice Department, I have no rea- lier this year, including the kingpin that trust is eroding more and more son to believe Ms. Brand will fare much drug dealer who is now the Vice Presi- each and every day. For the first time better. dent of Venezuela, Tareck El Aissami. in recent history, we are facing ques- I urge my colleagues on both sides of Here are some people who should be tions about a significant interference the aisle to consider the very real chal- sanctioned by the current President. from a foreign government in an Amer- lenges we face. This is not an issue of He should target for sanctions Chavista ican Presidential election. Even more partisan politics or the outcome of a officials within the judiciary—all of troubling, there have been serious past election; this is about protecting these magistrates who have enabled questions about a Presidential cam- the sanctity of our democracy from Maduro’s takeover. That includes the paign’s potential collusion with Russia, outside threats. murderer who is the chief justice of a foreign adversary. I believe we absolutely must work to- their supreme court, Maikel Jose We have an idea of the potential gether to restore the credibility and Moreno Perez, and others like him who problem here, and the Justice Depart- the independence of the Justice De- are part of that so-called constitu- ment is supposed to be a part of the so- partment. Until we have an inde- tional group within the supreme court lution. Unfortunately, the recent con- pendent special prosecutor and until of Venezuela, many of whom have ac- duct of the President’s appointees to we are confident that the Attorney cess to money and use visas to travel the Department of Justice have only General is truly honoring his recusal freely within the United States. Among added fuel to the fire. on the Russia investigation, I cannot these names are Calixto Ortega, First, Attorney General Jeff Sessions support another senior political nomi- Arcadio Delgado, Federico Fuenmayor, failed to reveal his communication nation to this Justice Department. Carmen Zuleta, Lourdes Suarez Ander- with the Russians during his confirma- I urge my colleagues to vote no. son, and Juan Jose Mendoza. These are tion hearings. This omission led him to Mr. President, I yield the floor. the people who have helped in this coup publicly pledge to recuse himself from The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- d’etat that has canceled the demo- Russia-related investigations. ator from Arizona. cratic order in Venezuela, and they Then, in an inexplicable turn of NATIONAL POLICE WEEK should be punished for what they have events, the Deputy Attorney General Mr. FLAKE. Mr. President, in light done. and the Attorney General advised the of National Police Week, I rise today in I will close by pointing to two things President to fire former FBI Director support of our men and women serving that are of deep concern. The first is Jim Comey, who we know was in the in law enforcement. this report today in El Nuevo Herald in midst of investigating the Trump cam- Police week is a good time for reflec- Miami, which basically cites that paign’s relationship with Russia. Let tion and remembrance. It is a time to Maduro has now ordered the militariza- me be clear: That was a firing that the honor those who serve and protect us. tion of a border region with Colombia. President himself admitted was related While we honor our dedicated law en- We are concerned about that because to ‘‘the Russia thing.’’ forcement officers this week, I want, we have always feared he would create Then the day after firing Director specifically, to recognize those fallen some sort of a military pretext to dis- Comey, the President revealed highly officers who have given the ultimate tract people from the crisis within the classified information to Russian offi- sacrifice—their lives—for our safety. country. cials during a meeting in the Oval Of- In Arizona we lost three officers this Then there is this unusual behavior fice—a meeting that, I may add, was year: Officer Leander Frank of the on the part of Maduro. For example, closed to the American press but oddly Navajo Nation Police Department, Of- yesterday he said that the Chavistas— included only the Russian press. ficer David Van Glasser of the Phoenix

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00030 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.056 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3003 Police Department, and Officer Darrin burden of Washington’s failure to se- cers killed in the line of duty in 2016 Reed of the Show Low Police Depart- cure our borders and to implement a are being honored this week in our Na- ment. Today we honor the memory of workable enforcement policy. tion’s Capital. The names of these fall- these fallen heroes and pledge to never It has been my privilege to work on en heroes will be physically inscribed forget their sacrifice. this effort with the Arizona Sheriffs into the National Law Enforcement Of- While the work we do in Congress Association, the Western States Sher- ficers Memorial, set in stone as an pales in comparison to the service of iffs’ Association, the Southwest Border eternal reminder to the Nation of the these brave men and women, it is my Sheriff’s Coalition, and the Texas Bor- service of these men and the debt we privilege to sponsor several pieces of der Sheriff’s Coalition. I want espe- owe for their sacrifice on our behalf. legislation to support our law enforce- cially to thank Sheriff Mascher of That debt, of course, can never be re- ment officers. I have joined with Sen- Yavapai County, Sheriff Daniels of paid, but it is certainly our duty to try. ator HATCH to introduce the Rapid Cochise County, Sheriff Wilmot of As Americans honor these men dur- DNA Act, a bill that gives State and Yuma County, and Sheriff Clark of ing National Police Week, we must also local law enforcement agencies a way Navajo County for their work on this remember their families, friends, and to upload a suspect’s DNA analysis to a bill. fellow officers and the loved ones they Federal offender database for imme- To many, Police Week is an annual left behind. May God comfort them in diate identification. This immediate opportunity to recognize the service of their time of grief and be a source of cross-hit within the Federal system the many selfless men and women in strength for them. May He also protect will help officers at the local level to law enforcement, but it should also all those who continue to serve and to process criminals faster and more ac- serve as a solemn reminder of the risks stand today in harm’s way to protect curately. they take and the sacrifices they make our communities. I have also teamed up with Senator day in and day out. It is for this that An inscription at the memorial FEINSTEIN to introduce the bipartisan they have my support, my respect, and reads: ‘‘In valor there is hope.’’ The Protecting Young Victims from Sexual my thanks, and they have it year- losses of Brad Lancaster, Robert Abuse Act. That legislation criminal- round. Melton, and Brandon Collins have im- izes the failure to report to law en- I yield back the remainder of my posed tremendous sorrow, but our forcement incidents of suspected child time. memory of their service to others and abuse in amateur athletics. In addition The PRESIDING OFFICER. The Sen- their acts of valor offer Americans to helping prevent sexual abuse crimes, ator from Kansas. hope and inspiration to carry on their this bill will aid State and local law Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, thank missions, to better our communities, enforcement investigating allegations you for the opportunity to visit this to protect the vulnerable, and to stand of child sexual abuse by providing them evening with my Senate colleagues. for what is right. As we remember, let with more information faster. This is a special week in Washington, us tirelessly pursue those ends and do I have also supported Senator COR- DC, and a number of my colleagues all we can to honor the fallen. NYN’s American Law Enforcement He- have paid tribute by attending the me- f roes Act. That bill affirms a well-estab- morial or speaking of those who died in lished practice of hiring veterans at service as fallen police officers. This is LEGISLATIVE SESSION the local level to serve as new law en- our fallen officers’ National Police forcement officers. Together, these Week. bills will enhance law enforcement in- In 1962, Congress and the then-Presi- MORNING BUSINESS vestigations and encourage better hir- dent John F. Kennedy designated May Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask ing practices for new law enforcement 15 of each year to be Peace Officers Me- unanimous consent that the Senate be jobs. morial Day, and the week of May 15 to in a period of morning business, with I also want to recognize the local po- be National Police Week. Each spring, Senators permitted to speak therein lice officers and sheriffs in Arizona, we take time to recall the men and for up to 10 minutes each. along with those on the border who are women of law enforcement who were The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without serving on the frontlines of immigra- lost in the previous year. Unfortu- objection, it is so ordered. tion enforcement. These men and nately, this list has become far, far too f women put their lives on the line every long. time they go out on patrol. For them, Since our Nation’s founding, more REMEMBERING WILBURN K. ROSS immigration policy is not a hypo- than 20,000 American law enforcement Mr. MCCONNELL. Mr. President, thetical exercise. officers have sacrificed their lives in today I wish to remember a noble Ken- Despite the critical role these enti- service to others. While I have paid tuckian and a decorated World War II ties play in assisting their Federal many solemn visits to the National veteran, Wilburn K. Ross, who passed partners with immigration enforce- Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in away on May 9, 2017, just days before ment, current Federal policy leaves Washington, DC, to honor, respect, and his 95th birthday. A native of Strunk, them exposed to the threat of costly remember fallen officers, my visit this KY, Ross was awarded the highest litigation. That is because third-party year was especially somber. In 2016, decoration in the U.S. military, the groups that oppose detention have Kansas suffered the loss of three law Medal of Honor. threatened local agencies that choose enforcement officials. As a private, Ross gained national to comply with valid detainer requests On the Senate floor today, I wish to acclaim for his service in St. Jacques, with lawsuits. Using punitive legal ac- recognize and to honor these fallen he- France, on October 30, 1944. His com- tion to punish law enforcement for roes: Detective Brad Lancaster of the pany lost 55 of its 88 members fighting good-faith efforts to keep people safe is Kansas City Police Department, Cap- a group of German mountain troops. wrong. That is why a group of Arizona tain Robert ‘‘Dave’’ Melton of the Kan- Ross’ light machine gun was about 10 sheriffs came to me for help, and with sas City Police Department, and Mas- yards ahead of his supporting riflemen. their guidance, we drafted a bill requir- ter Deputy Sheriff Brandon Collins of As intense enemy fire fell around him, ing the Department of Homeland Secu- the Johnson County Sheriff’s Office. Ross repelled the enemy through seven rity to protect State and local law en- Their untimely deaths shook their German attacks. When the next attack forcement entities from lawsuits that families, the agencies where these men came, many of his supporting rifleman uphold valid detainer requests from served, the neighborhoods they pro- had run out of ammunition. As his ICE. This solution will enable officers tected, and the communities they lived Medal of Honor citation read, ‘‘Pvt. to fulfill their law enforcement respon- in. Brandon, Robert, and Brad were not Ross fought on virtually without as- sibilities without second-guessing only law enforcement officers, they sistance and, despite the fact that whether or not to keep potentially dan- were also sons and brothers, fathers, enemy grenadiers crawled to within 4 gerous criminal aliens in custody. It is neighbors, mentors, and friends. yards of his position in an effort to kill a recognition that local law enforce- Robert Melton, Brad Lancaster, and him with handgrenades, he again di- ment shouldn’t be left to shoulder the Brandon Collins and the 140 other offi- rected accurate and deadly fire on the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00031 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.058 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S3004 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 hostile force and hurled it back.’’ Dur- ing every day to emulate their devo- know the stress and unique challenges ing the 5 hours of fighting, Ross killed tion to public service through acts of police officers across our Nation face in or wounded at least 58 Germans and service and love. doing their jobs. They risk their lives saved his brothers in arms. It is in that spirit that I want to talk and are often exposed to traumatizing Ross reenlisted in the Army to see about the important work that still incidents. The Federal Government action in Korea, serving another two needs to be done to support law en- must do all it can to support police decades. He retired from Active Duty forcement. Congress plays a critical who suffer from trauma or other men- in 1964 at the rank of master sergeant. role in supporting law enforcement, tal health issues due to the rigors and He was awarded the Medal of Honor, both at the Federal level and at the dangers of their job. The Law Enforce- ‘‘[f]or conspicuous gallantry and intre- State and local level. There are few ment Mental Health and Wellness Act pidity at risk of life above and beyond bills I want to mention that I believe of 2017 would direct the Department of the call of duty.’’ we must pass to uphold our commit- Justice and the Department of Health Although he moved to DuPont, WA, ment to brave men and women in law and Human Resources to provide sup- after his retirement from the U.S. enforcement. port to State and local law enforce- Army, Ross made a trip back to his First, on February 16, 2017, I intro- ment to access mental healthcare serv- hometown in Kentucky nearly every duced the bipartisan Law Enforcement ices and make sure that hotlines are year on his birthday. In his own words, Officers’ Equity Act. Unfortunately, available for officers who are in need of he enjoyed coming back to the Com- due to a technical error, nearly 30,000 help. I hope the House of Representa- monwealth because, ‘‘[e]verybody here Federal law enforcement officers clas- tives takes up this bill soon and passes treats me well.’’ sified as GS–0083 police officers did not it. He turned down offers to make his receive enhanced benefits under the I am proud to sponsor the Law En- life into a Hollywood film, but Ross has U.S. Code. For example, certain offi- forcement Officers’ Equity Act and co- been memorialized on a U.S. Postal cers who work for Federal agencies, sponsor the Children of Fallen Heroes Service stamp and by a section of Ken- such as the Department of Defense, De- Scholarship Act and Law Enforcement tucky Route 92 in his home county. In partment of Veterans Affairs, Federal Mental Health and Wellness Act. There 2014, Ross was a member of the inau- Bureau of Investigation, U.S. Postal is so much work for us to do to live up gural class admitted to the Kentucky Service, U.S. Mint, National Institute to our commitment to law enforcement Veterans Hall of Fame. of Health and many more, receive across the country, and I am com- Like so many other members of the lower pensions as compared to other mitted to continuing to work with my Greatest Generation, Wilburn Ross an- law enforcement officers with similar colleagues on these critical issues. swered the call to defend our Nation. responsibilities. Thank you. Through his bravery and sacrifice, he The Law Enforcement Officers’ Eq- f helped secure freedom across the globe. uity Act would expand the definition of The story of his courageous actions ‘‘law enforcement officer’’ for retire- 75TH ANNIVERSARY OF THE NA- and selfless service will continue to be ment purposes to include all Federal TIONAL HOME BUILDERS ASSO- told, both in McCreary County and law enforcement officers. The change CIATION across the Commonwealth. Elaine and I would grant law enforcement officer Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, along send our condolences to his family and status to the follow individuals: em- with my dad, Clair, who started our friends. ployees who are authorized to carry a family homebuilding business 45 years f firearm and whose duties include the ago, I wish to congratulate the Na- investigation and/or apprehension of tional Association of Home Builders on NATIONAL POLICE WEEK suspected criminals; employees of the reaching its 75th anniversary. Mr. BOOKER. Mr. President, today, Internal Revenue Service whose duties For three-quarters of a century, with great humility during National are primarily the collection of delin- NAHB has been fighting for the Amer- Police Week, I wish to recognize the quent taxes and securing delinquent re- ican dream, advocating for those who brave men and women of law enforce- turns; employees of the U.S Postal In- want to own a home for themselves and ment across the country. These indi- spection Service; and employees of the their families and advocating for viduals have answered the call to serve Department of Veterans Affairs who homebuilders who provide jobs and and every day they put their lives on are department police offices. These of- make the homeowners’ dreams a re- the line to keep our communities safe. ficers face the same risks and chal- ality. I especially want to honor those who lenges as the men and women currently Before coming to Congress, I worked have lost their lives in the line of duty classified properly under Federal law for my dad in our family homebuilding and observe the sacrifices of their fam- as law enforcement officers, and they business, and I have great respect for ilies. deserve the same benefits. We must the work their members do in our com- First, I especially want to recognize pass this bill. munities. They truly are job creators, three law enforcement officers who lost I am also a proud cosponsor of the economic drivers, and dream makers. their lives in New Jersey last year. Children of Fallen Heroes Scholarship I have been happy to meet with some These three men made the ultimate Act. This legislation would increase of their members when they have come sacrifice for their communities, and we the amount of Pell grant funds avail- to Capitol Hill. I can tell you that it is owe them and their families our sin- able to children of fallen law enforce- helpful to have face-to-face meetings cerest respect. On July 1, 2016, the New ment officers, firefighters, EMS work- with their team to talk about the Jersey Department of Corrections lost ers, and fire police. First responders issues that matter to them the most. Nikeelan ‘‘Nick’’ Semmon. On March 7, across the country put their lives on Though I have a background in home- 2016, the New Jersey State Police lost the line every day to keep us safe. building, many congressional and Pres- Sean Cullen. On December 5, 2016, the When most people are running away idential staff do not. It makes a dif- New Jersey State Police also lost from danger, they are running towards ference to hear from folks on the Frankie Williams. it. For those who put themselves in ground in their business. These officers dedicated their lives to danger on a daily basis, we must honor When it comes to homebuilding and protecting our communities, and they their sacrifice and support their fami- homeownership, we all share the same served our State with valor and integ- lies in times of tragedy. Helping chil- goal—let’s keep home prices affordable. rity. I feel privileged to call them fel- dren of first responders pay for an edu- Their advocacy has enabled millions low New Jerseyans, and my thoughts cation is the least we can do to honor of American families, like mine, to and prayers continue to be with the the sacrifice of someone who fell in the make one of the most important pur- family and friends of these brave public line of duty. We must pass this bill. chases of their lives: a home. servants. As we continue to mourn and I am also a cosponsor of the Law En- As you know, when people achieve remember Officer Semmon, Trooper forcement Mental Health and Wellness the American dream of homeowner- Cullen, and Trooper Williams, let us Act of 2017, which I am pleased to say ship, they are on the path to wealth pledge to honor their sacrifice by work- passed the Senate yesterday. We all creation and upward mobility, not to

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:29 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00032 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.050 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3005 mention the sense of pride that comes crime and reduce the current DNA analysis the national emergency that was originally with having a place to call their own. backlog. declared in Executive Order 13611 of May 16, That sense of pride overflows to the H.R. 1428. An act to amend the Omnibus 2012, with respect to Yemen; to the Com- way people invest in their commu- Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to mittee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Af- authorize COPS grantees to use grant funds fairs. nities, and we all benefit from a more to hire veterans as career law enforcement EC–1575. A communication from the Presi- engaged neighbor. As they know better officers, and for other purposes. dent of the United States, transmitting, pur- than anyone and Sir Winston Churchill H.R. 1616. An act to amend the Homeland suant to law, a report on the continuation of once said, ‘‘We shape our dwellings, Security Act of 2002 to authorize the Na- the national emergency that was originally and afterwards our dwellings shape tional Computer Forensics Institute, and for declared in Executive Order 13667 of May 12, us.’’ other purposes. 2014, with respect to the Central African Re- When the times are good or times are public; to the Committee on Banking, Hous- f ing, and Urban Affairs. tough and through the general cyclical MEASURES REFERRED EC–1576. A communication from the Presi- nature of the industry, NAHB has re- dent of the United States, transmitting, pur- mained a steady advocate for the im- The following bills were read the first suant to law, a report on the continuation of portance of affordable and quality and the second times by unanimous the national emergency that was originally housing, both for homeowners and consent, and referred as indicated: declared in Executive Order 13338 of May 11, renters. Thanks in part to them, build- H.R. 510. An act to establish a system for 2004, with respect to the blocking of property ers and consumers are back up on their integration of Rapid DNA instruments for of certain persons and prohibition of expor- feet. use by law enforcement to reduce violent tation and re-exportation of certain goods to crime and reduce the current DNA analysis Syria; to the Committee on Banking, Hous- I am grateful for their commitment ing, and Urban Affairs. to serving our Nation by building safe backlog; to the Committee on the Judiciary. H.R. 1428. An act to amend the Omnibus EC–1577. A communication from the Sec- and beautiful homes, and I am grateful Crime Control and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to retary of the Treasury, transmitting, pursu- for the 75 years of advocacy from authorize COPS grantees to use grant funds ant to law, a six-month periodic report on NAHB. to hire veterans as career law enforcement the national emergency with respect to the Congratulations again on achieving officers, and for other purposes; to the Com- stabilization of Iraq that was declared in Ex- this major milestone. mittee on the Judiciary. ecutive Order 13303 of May 22, 2003; to the Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban f H.R. 1616. An act to amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to authorize the Na- Affairs. EC–1578. A communication from the Sec- ADDITIONAL STATEMENTS tional Computer Forensics Institute, and for retary of Energy, transmitting, pursuant to other purposes; to the Committee on the Ju- law, a report entitled ‘‘Department of En- diciary. ergy Activities Relating to the Defense Nu- RECOGNIZING THE UNIVERSITY OF f clear Facilities Safety Board, Fiscal Year MONTANA GRIZZLIES SOFTBALL 2016’’; to the Committee on Energy and Nat- TEAM PRIVILEGED NOMINATION ural Resources. REFERRED TO COMMITTEE ∑ Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, this EC–1579. A communication from the Assist- ant General Counsel, General Law, Ethics, week, I have the distinct honor of rec- On request by Senator FEINSTEIN, under the authority of S. Res. 116, 112th and Regulation, Department of the Treasury, ognizing the University of Montana transmitting, pursuant to law, two (2) re- Grizzlies softball team for their out- Congress, the following nomination ports relative to vacancies in the Depart- standing performance at the Big Sky was referred to the Committee on the ment of the Treasury, received in the Office Conference softball tournament. This Judiciary: of the President of the Senate on May 4, 2017; team has come a long way in a short Stephen Elliott Boyd, of Alabama, to be an to the Committee on Finance. time, and their journey this season is Assistant Attorney General, vice Peter Jo- EC–1580. A communication from the Chief something that all Montanans can ap- seph Kadzik. of the Publications and Regulations Branch, Internal Revenue Service, Department of the preciate. f Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the Last week at Ogden, UT, the EXECUTIVE AND OTHER report of a rule entitled ‘‘Distribution of Grizzlies won the Big Sky Conference Stock and Securities of a Controlled Cor- softball championship for the first COMMUNICATIONS poration’’ (Rev. Rul. 2017–09) received in the time in the school’s history. This ac- The following communications were Office of the President of the Senate on May complishment is highlighted by the laid before the Senate, together with 9, 2017; to the Committee on Finance. fact that the softball program is only accompanying papers, reports, and doc- EC–1581. A communication from the Chief uments, and were referred as indicated: of the Publications and Regulations Branch, in its third year on campus. Four years Internal Revenue Service, Department of the ago, there was no team or coach; today EC–1571. A communication from the Direc- Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the they are conference champions. tor, National Institute of Food and Agri- report of a rule entitled ‘‘Syndicated Con- Jamie Pinkerton, the Grizzlies’ culture, Department of Agriculture, trans- servation Easement Transactions Identified coach, was also voted the Big Sky Con- mitting, pursuant to law, the report of a rule in Notice 2017–10’’ (Notice 2017–29) received in ference ‘‘Coach of the Year’’ for the entitled ‘‘Competitive and Noncompetitive the Office of the President of the Senate on Non-formula Federal Assistance Programs— May 9, 2017; to the Committee on Finance. second year in a row. General Award Administrative Provisions As conference champions, the EC–1582. A communication from the Chief and Specific Administrative Provisions’’ of the Publications and Regulations Branch, Grizzlies will represent Big Sky in the (RIN0524–AA69) received in the Office of the Internal Revenue Service, Department of the 2017 NCAA Division I softball cham- President of the Senate on May 15, 2017; to Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the pionship this Friday as they travel to the Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, report of a rule entitled ‘‘Extension of Eligi- Washington to challenge the Huskies and Forestry. bility Rule Waivers for Certain Automatic in the regional qualifying round. The EC–1572. A communication from the Sec- Changes Made To Comply with the Final Grizzlies will have both the Big Sky retary of Defense, transmitting the report of Tangible Property Regulations’’ (Rev. Proc. twenty-six (26) officers authorized to wear 2017–36) received in the Office of the Presi- State and the Big Sky Conference root- the insignia of the grade of major general or ing for them.∑ dent of the Senate on May 9, 2017; to the brigadier general, as indicated, in accord- Committee on Finance. f ance with title 10, United States Code, sec- EC–1583. A communication from the Chief tion 777; to the Committee on Armed Serv- of the Publications and Regulations Branch, MESSAGE FROM THE HOUSE ices. Internal Revenue Service, Department of the At 10:06 a.m., a message from the EC–1573. A communication from the Sec- Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the House of Representatives, delivered by retary of Defense, transmitting a report on report of a rule entitled ‘‘2018 Sec. 223 Infla- Mrs. Cole, one of its reading clerks, an- the approved retirement of Lieutenant Gen- tion-Adjusted Item’’ (Rev. Proc. 2017–37) re- nounced that the House has passed the eral James K. McLaughlin, United States Air ceived in the Office of the President of the Force, and his advancement to the grade of Senate on May 9, 2017; to the Committee on following bills, in which it requests the lieutenant general on the retired list; to the Finance. concurrence of the Senate: Committee on Armed Services. EC–1584. A communication from the Chief H.R. 510. An act to establish a system for EC–1574. A communication from the Presi- of the Publications and Regulations Branch, integration of Rapid DNA instruments for dent of the United States, transmitting, pur- Internal Revenue Service, Department of the use by law enforcement to reduce violent suant to law, a report on the continuation of Treasury, transmitting, pursuant to law, the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:07 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00033 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.049 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S3006 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 report of a rule entitled ‘‘List of Automatic EC–1592. A communication from the Board and Rules: Periodic Update, Various Cat- Changes in Method of Accounting’’ (Rev. Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Farm egories’’ (RIN2135–AA42) received in the Of- Proc. 2017–30) received in the Office of the Credit Administration, transmitting, pursu- fice of the President of the Senate on May 3, President of the Senate on May 9, 2017; to the ant to law, the Administration’s Semiannual 2017; to the Committee on Commerce, Committee on Finance. Report of the Inspector General and the Science, and Transportation. EC–1585. A communication from the Bu- Semiannual Management Report on the Sta- EC–1601. A communication from the Chief reau of Legislative Affairs, Department of tus of Audits for the period from October 1, Counsel, Saint Lawrence Seaway Develop- State, transmitting, pursuant to section 2016 through March 31, 2017; to the Com- ment Corporation, Department of Transpor- 36(c) of the Arms Export Control Act, the mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- tation, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- certification of a proposed license for the ex- mental Affairs. port of a rule entitled ‘‘Civil Penalties’’ port of defense articles, including technical EC–1593. A communication from the Acting (RIN2135–AA40) received in the Office of the data, and defense services to Mexico to sup- Solicitor General, Department of Justice, President of the Senate on May 3, 2017; to the port the integration, installation, operation, transmitting, pursuant to law, a report rel- Committee on Commerce, Science, and training, testing, maintenance, and repair of ative to TC Reiner v. Saginaw Valley State Transportation. the Star Safire 380 HD camera system in the University, et al.; to the Committee on the EC–1602. A communication from the Chief amount of $50,000,000 or more (Transmittal Judiciary. Counsel, Saint Lawrence Seaway Develop- No. DDTC 16–107); to the Committee on For- EC–1594. A communication from the Assist- ment Corporation, Department of Transpor- eign Relations. ant General Counsel, Office of Justice Pro- tation, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- EC–1586. A communication from the Bu- grams, Department of Justice, transmitting, port of a rule entitled ‘‘Tariff of Tolls’’ reau of Legislative Affairs, Department of pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled (RIN2135–AA41) received in the Office of the State, transmitting, pursuant to section ‘‘Victims of Crime Act Victim Assistance President of the Senate on May 3, 2017; to the 36(c) of the Arms Export Control Act, the Program’’ (RIN1121–AA69) received in the Of- Committee on Commerce, Science, and certification of a proposed license for the ex- fice of the President of the Senate on May 8, Transportation. port of firearms, parts, and accessories to 2017; to the Committee on the Judiciary. EC–1603. A communication from the Bu- Qatar under Category I of the United States EC–1595. A communication from the Chief reau of Legislative Affairs, U.S. Department Munitions List in the amount of $1,000,000 or of Regulation Policy and Management, De- of State, transmitting, pursuant to law, a re- more (Transmittal No. DDTC 16–125); to the partment of Veterans Affairs, transmitting, port relative to certification granted in rela- Committee on Foreign Relations. pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled tion to the incidental capture of sea turtles EC–1587. A communication from the Bu- ‘‘Payment or Reimbursement for Certain in commercial shrimping operations; to the reau of Legislative Affairs, Department of Medical Expenses for Camp Lejeune Family Committee on Commerce, Science, and State, transmitting, pursuant to section Members’’ (RIN2900–AO79) received in the Of- Transportation. 36(c) of the Arms Export Control Act, the fice of the President of the Senate on May 9, EC–1604. A communication from the Attor- ney-Advisor, U.S. Coast Guard, Department certification of a proposed license for the ex- 2017; to the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. port of defense articles, including technical EC–1596. A communication from the Chief of Homeland Security, transmitting, pursu- data, and defense services to Japan to sup- of Regulation Policy and Management, De- ant to law, the report of a rule entitled port the integration, installation, and main- partment of Veterans Affairs, transmitting, ‘‘Drawbridge Operation Regulation; Atlantic tenance of the F135 Propulsion System for pursuant to law, the report of a rule entitled Intracoastal Waterway and Indian Creek, the J–35 in the amount of $100,000,000 or more ‘‘Extension of Pharmacy Copayments for Miami, FL’’ ((RIN1625–AA09) (Docket No. (Transmittal No. DDTC 16–136); to the Com- Medications’’ (RIN2900–AP87) received in the USCG–2015–0768)) received during adjourn- mittee on Foreign Relations. Office of the President of the Senate on May ment of the Senate in the Office of the Presi- EC–1588. A communication from the Bu- dent of the Senate on May 12, 2017; to the 9, 2017; to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- reau of Legislative Affairs, Department of Committee on Commerce, Science, and fairs. State, transmitting, pursuant to section EC–1597. A communication from the Acting Transportation. 36(d) of the Arms Export Control Act, the EC–1605. A communication from the Attor- Chief, International Bureau, Federal Com- certification of a proposed license for the ex- ney-Advisor, U.S. Coast Guard, Department munications Commission, transmitting, pur- port of defense articles, including technical of Homeland Security, transmitting, pursu- suant to law, the report of a rule entitled data, and defense services to Italy to support ant to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘The Establishment of Policies and Service the manufacture, operation, test integration, ‘‘Safety Zone; Navy UNDET, Apra Outer Rules for the Broadcasting-Satellite Service evaluation, installation, assembly, and Harbor and Piti, GU’’ ((RIN1625–AA00) (Dock- at the 17.3–17.7 GHz Frequency Band Inter- maintenance of the G–2000 Dynamically et No. USCG–2017–0214)) received during ad- nationally, and at the 24.75–25.25 GHz Fre- Tuned Gyroscope product family that incor- journment of the Senate in the Office of the quency Band for Fixed Satellite Services porate or operate the gyroscope for end-use President of the Senate on May 12, 2017; to Providing Feeder Links to the Broadcasting- on the Joint Strike Fighter Turret Stabiliza- the Committee on Commerce, Science, and tion, ASPIDE missile, and ASTER missile Satellite Service and for the Satellite Serv- Transportation. programs (Transmittal No. DDTC 16–083); to ices Operating Bi-directionally in the 17.3– EC–1606. A communication from the Attor- the Committee on Foreign Relations. 17.8 GHz Frequency Band’’ ((IB Doc. No. 06– ney-Advisor, U.S. Coast Guard, Department EC–1589. A communication from the Bu- 123) (FCC 17–49)) received in the Office of the of Homeland Security, transmitting, pursu- reau of Legislative Affairs, Department of President of the Senate on May 4, 2017; to the ant to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Se- State, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- Committee on Commerce, Science, and curity Zone; Schuylkill River, Philadelphia, port of a Determination and Certification Transportation. PA’’ ((RIN1625–AA87) (Docket No. USCG– under Section 40A of the Arms Export Con- EC–1598. A communication from the Chief 2017–0152)) received during adjournment of trol Act relative to countries not cooper- of Staff, Media Bureau, Federal Communica- the Senate in the Office of the President of ating fully with United States antiterrorism tions Commission, transmitting, pursuant to the Senate on May 12, 2017; to the Committee efforts; to the Committee on Foreign Rela- law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Amend- on Commerce, Science, and Transportation. tions. ment of Section 73.3555(e) of the Commis- EC–1607. A communication from the Attor- EC–1590. A communication from the Direc- sion’s Rules, National Television Multiple ney-Advisor, U.S. Coast Guard, Department tor of Regulations and Policy Management Ownership Rule’’ ((MB Doc. No. 13–236) (FCC of Homeland Security, transmitting, pursu- Staff, Food and Drug Administration, De- 17–40)) received in the Office of the President ant to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Spe- partment of Health and Human Services, of the Senate on May 15, 2017; to the Com- cial Local Regulation; Bush River, Harford transmitting, pursuant to law, the report of mittee on Commerce, Science, and Transpor- County, MD’’ ((RIN1625–AA08) (Docket No. a rule entitled ‘‘Food Labeling of standard tation. USCG–2017–0067)) received during adjourn- Menu Items in Restaurants and Similar Re- EC–1599. A communication from the Chief ment of the Senate in the Office of the Presi- tail Food Establishments; Extension of Com- of Staff, Media Bureau, Federal Communica- dent of the Senate on May 12, 2017; to the pliance Date; Request for Comments’’ tions Commission, transmitting, pursuant to Committee on Commerce, Science, and ((RIN0910–ZA48) (Docket No. FDA–2011–F– law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Promoting Transportation. 0172)) received in the Office of the President Diversification of Ownership in the Broad- EC–1608. A communication from the Attor- of the Senate on May 9, 2017; to the Com- casting Services; Amendment of Part 1 of the ney-Advisor, U.S. Coast Guard, Department mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and Commission’s Rules, Concerning Practice of Homeland Security, transmitting, pursu- Pensions. and Procedure, Amendment of CORES Reg- ant to law, the report of a rule entitled ‘‘Spe- EC–1591. A communication from the Board istration System’’ ((MB Docket No. 07–294) cial Local Regulation; Hebda Cup Rowing Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Farm (MD Docket No. 10–234) (FCC 17–42)) received Regatta; Detroit River, Trenton Channel; Credit Administration, transmitting, pursu- in the Office of the President of the Senate Wyandotte, MI’’ ((RIN1625–AA08) (Docket No. ant to law, the Administration’s Semiannual on May 15, 2017; to the Committee on Com- USCG–2017–0305)) received during adjourn- Report of the Inspector General and the merce, Science, and Transportation. ment of the Senate in the Office of the Presi- Semiannual Management Report on the Sta- EC–1600. A communication from the Chief dent of the Senate on May 12, 2017; to the tus of Audits for the period from October 1, Counsel, Saint Lawrence Seaway Develop- Committee on Commerce, Science, and 2016 through March 31, 2017; to the Com- ment Corporation, Department of Transpor- Transportation. mittee on Homeland Security and Govern- tation, transmitting, pursuant to law, the re- EC–1609. A communication from the Attor- mental Affairs. port of a rule entitled ‘‘Seaway Regulations ney-Advisor, U.S. Coast Guard, Department

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00034 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.007 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3007 of Homeland Security, transmitting, pursu- POM–18. A concurrent resolution adopted Beulah, and the Lignite Energy Council are ant to law, the report of a rule entitled by the Legislature of the State of North Da- engaged in efforts to address environmental, ‘‘Safety Zone; Chapel Street over Mill River kota requesting the United States Congress health, and economic impacts of energy pro- Bridge Rehabilitation—New Haven, CT’’ and the President of the United States to duction and use through collaborations on ((RIN1625–AA00) (Docket No. USCG–2017– enact legislation to expand and extend the applied carbon dioxide research, practical 0257)) received during adjournment of the current federal tax credit for carbon capture, applications, workforce development, and Senate in the Office of the President of the utilization, and storage under Section 45Q of public education; and Senate on May 12, 2017; to the Committee on the Internal Revenue Code; to provide appro- Whereas, legislation was introduced in the Commerce, Science, and Transportation. priations to the United States Department of 114th Congress to enhance and extend federal f Energy Sufficient to achieve and sustain a tax incentives, under Section 45Q of the In- robust carbon capture research, develop- ternal Revenue Code, which serve to sustain PETITIONS AND MEMORIALS ment, demonstration, and deployment pro- and promote such collaborations and to en- The following petitions and memo- gram; to support the inclusion of economi- courage private industry in energy genera- rials were laid before the Senate and cally and environmentally beneficial carbon tion, manufacturing, and agriculture to capture projects in any forthcoming federal were referred or ordered to lie on the adopt and deploy existing and emerging infrastructure initiative; to support policies technologies that increase carbon capture, table as indicated: to increase the operational efficiency; and to utilization, and storage; and POM–17. A resolution adopted by the House support the preservation of a fuel-diverse Whereas, the coming together of environ- of Representatives of the State of Michigan electric generation portfolio critical to our mental and energy advocates in support of memorializing the United States Congress to domestic economic, energy, and national se- carbon capture is reflected in the repeal the standards set forth by the United curity; to the Committee on Finance. groundbreaking coalition of environmental States Environmental Protection Agency on HOUSE CONCURRENT RESOLUTION NO. 3037 advocacy groups, labor unions, and energy portable fuel container design; to the Com- Whereas, fossil fuels including coal, nat- producers from the coal, oil and gas, ethanol, mittee on Environment and Public Works. ural gas, and oil provide more than three- and algae-biomass industries working to- HOUSE RESOLUTION NO. 38 quarters of global and United States’ pri- gether in support of federal legislation; and Whereas, The United States Environ- mary energy demand and, according to the Whereas, similar legislation is now under mental Protection Agency (EPA) adopted International Energy Agency, will continue consideration in the 115th Congress, and Con- rules to limit emissions from portable fuel to do so for the next quarter-century or more gress and the President also are considering containers, such as gas cans, in 2007. The under current energy and environmental enactment of a large-scale federal infrastruc- standard was meant to force design changes policies; and ture initiative to strengthen our nation’s in fuel containers to reduce evaporation, per- Whereas, recognition of the value and en- transportation, public works, and energy in- meation, and spillage and was part of a larg- during role of fossil fuels as an essential frastructure that also could serve as a vehi- er package on reducing toxic air emissions source of energy around the world and in the cle for advancing ‘‘jobs-ready’’ carbon cap- from mobile sources like passenger vehicles. United States for decades to come has led en- ture projects; and Since 2009, all containers manufactured now vironmental advocates to support the accel- Whereas, according to the Department of need to be designed to meet these standards; erated development and broad deployment of Energy, ‘‘A combination of tax incentives and carbon capture technologies for fossil fuels and research, development, demonstration, Whereas, Portable fuel containers are reas part of a sustainable energy future; and and deployment will be critical to developing sponsible for a relatively small portion of Whereas, recognition of the role carbon transformational carbon capture tech- toxic air emissions from mobile sources. In capture can play in creating new opportuni- nologies and to driving down the costs of 1999, these containers accounted for only 2 ties for fossil fuels has led fossil energy advo- capture’’; Now, therefore, be it percent of these emissions. The EPA projects cates to similarly support the development Resolved by the House of Representatives of that the new portable fuel container stand- and deployment of carbon capture tech- North Dakota, the Senate concurring there- ard will account for 6 percent of the reduc- nologies for fossil fuels; and in: That the Sixty-fifth Legislative Assem- tion in toxic air emissions under the 2007 Whereas, the United States and North Da- bly requests Congress and the President of rule. Passenger vehicles and gasoline regula- kota have abundant supplies of fossil energy, the United States to enact legislation to ex- tions will account for 94 percent of projected the production and use of which provide im- pand and extend the current federal tax cred- reductions; and portant economic, energy, and national secu- it for carbon capture, utilization, and stor- Whereas, Gas cans and other portable fuel rity benefits to our nation and our state; and age under Section 45Q of the Internal Rev- containers designed to meet the new stand- Whereas, North Dakota is the nation’s 6th enue Code; to provide appropriations to the ard do not work effectively and are a con- largest producer of fossil energy, 2nd largest United States Department of Energy suffi- tinual source of frustration for consumers. producer of oil, 2nd largest producer of lig- cient to achieve and sustain a robust carbon To meet the standard, containers are being nite coal, 11th largest producer of natural capture research, development, demonstra- designed without a vent, resulting in slow, gas, the largest consumer of coal for indus- tion, and deployment program; to support uneven flow out of the cans; and trial use, and the 10th largest consumer of the inclusion of economically and environ- Whereas, The portable fuel container emis- coal for electricity generation; and mentally beneficial carbon capture projects sions standard is not an effective way to Whereas, according to the Department of in any forthcoming federal infrastructure limit toxic air emissions. Containers that Energy, ‘‘A diverse portfolio of energy re- initiative; to support policies to increase the work improperly may result in more spills as sources is critical to U.S. energy and na- operational efficiency, and thereby the envi- users are paying more attention to getting tional policy . . . being more robust and re- ronmental performance, of existing electric- gas out of the container than how much gas silient in comparison to a system that is generating units in the United States; and to is in the tank. Frustrated users may resort heavily dependent on a limited set of energy support the preservation of a fuel-diverse to modifying the container to create a vent, resources . . . [and] helps insulate the econ- electric generation portfolio critical to our eliminating any environmental benefit from omy from certain risks, including price vola- domestic economic, energy, and national se- the design, or using other containers ille- tility and risks from supply disruptions’’; curity; and be it further gally; and and Resolved, that the Secretary of State for- Whereas, The portable fuel container Whereas, reliable and affordable electricity ward copies of this resolution by certified standards are yet another example of the is vital to economic growth and job creation mail, return receipt requested, to the Presi- EPA adopting regulations without properly in North Dakota and the overall welfare of dent of the United States, the President and accounting for real life use and impact. our citizens; and Secretary of the United States Senate, the These regulations provide minimal environ- Whereas, 73 percent of the electricity gen- Speaker and Clerk of the United States mental gain and make something as simple erated in North Dakota is produced from fos- House of Representatives, the Secretary of as filling a lawn mower tank an exercise in sil fuels and the average residential price of the United States Department of Energy, frustration; now, therefore, be it electricity in North Dakota is the 6th lowest and to each member of the North Dakota Resolved by the House of Representatives, in the nation and is 18 percent below the na- Congressional Delegation. That we memorialize the Congress of the tional average; and United States to repeal the standards set Whereas, continued research and develop- POM–19. A resolution adopted by the Sen- forth by the United States Environmental ment of carbon reduction strategies for fossil ate of the State of Florida condemning the Protection Agency on portable fuel con- fuels is an essential element of a forward- Boycott; Divestment and Sanctions move- tainer design; and be it further looking sustainable energy strategy for ment and the increasing incidence of acts of Resolved, That copies of this resolution be North Dakota, our nation, and the world anti-Semitism; to the Committee on Foreign transmitted to the President of the United which will simultaneously maximize both Relations. States Senate, the Speaker of the United environmental quality and economic oppor- States House of Representatives. and the tunity; and SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 1184 members of the Michigan congressional dele- Whereas, the Energy and Environmental Whereas, Floridians have, as a matter of gation. Adopted by the House of Representa- Research Center at the University of North public policy, long opposed bigotry, oppres- tives, May 4, 2017. Dakota, the Great Plains Synfuels Plant in sion, discrimination, and injustice, and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:07 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00035 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.008 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S3008 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 Whereas, Florida and Israel have enjoyed a tween both parties toward achieving a two- the United States and Israel to take effective long history of friendship and are great al- state solution and ending all outstanding action to counteract the resolution’s poten- lies, each supporting the best interests of the claims, and tial harmful impacts, and other, and Whereas, it is the long-standing policy of Whereas, United Nations Security Council Whereas, the State of Israel, the only de- the United States that a peaceful resolution Resolution 2334 did not directly call upon mocracy in the Middle East, is the greatest to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict will only Palestinian leadership to fulfill their obliga- friend and ally of the United States in the come through direct, bilateral negotiations tions toward negotiations or mention that region, and between the two parties, and part of the eventual Palestinian state is cur- Whereas, the elected representatives of the Whereas, it was the long-standing position rently controlled by Hamas, a designated state recognize the importance of expressing of the United States to oppose and, if nec- terrorist organization, and Florida’s unwavering support for the Jewish essary, veto United Nations Security Council Whereas, United Nations Security Council people and the State of Israel’s right to exist resolutions dictating additional binding pa- Resolution 2334 sought to impose or unduly and right to self-defense, and rameters on the peace process, and influence solutions to final-status issues and Whereas, the incidence of acts of anti-Sem- Whereas, it was also the long-standing po- is biased against Israel, Now, therefore, be it itism is increasing throughout the world, in- sition of the United States to oppose and, if Resolved by the Senate of the State of Flor- cluding in the United States and in Florida, necessary, veto one-sided or anti-Israel ida: That the Florida Senate finds that: (1) The passage of United Nations Security and is reflected in official hate crime statis- United Nations Security Council resolutions, Council Resolution 2334 undermined the tics, and and long-standing position of the United States Whereas, the international Boycott, Di- Whereas, the United States has stood in to oppose and veto United Nations Security vestment and Sanctions (BDS) movement is the minority internationally over successive Council resolutions that seek to impose solu- one of the main vehicles for spreading anti- administrations in defending Israel in inter- tions to final-status issues or are one-sided Semitic perspectives and advocating the national forums, including vetoing one-sided and anti-Israel, reversing decades of bipar- elimination of the Jewish State, and resolutions in 1995, 1997, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2006, and 2011 before the United Nations Se- tisan agreement. Whereas, the level of activities promoting (2) The passage of United Nations Security BDS against Israel has increased in this curity Council, and Whereas, the United States recently signed Council Resolution 2334 undermines the pros- state, in communities and on college cam- pect of Israelis and Palestinians resuming puses, and contributes to the promotion of a new memorandum of understanding with the Israeli government regarding security productive, direct, bilateral negotiations. anti-Semitic and anti-Zionist propaganda, (3) The passage of United Nations Security assistance, consistent with long-standing and Council Resolution 2334 contributes to the support for Israel among successive adminis- Whereas, the increase in BDS campaign ac- politically motivated acts of boycotting, di- trations and Congresses and representing an tivities on college campuses nationwide has vesting from, and sanctioning Israel and rep- important United States commitment to- resulted in an increase in confrontations resents a concerted effort to extract conces- with, intimidation of, and discrimination ward Israel’s qualitative military edge, and sions from Israel outside of direct, bilateral Whereas, on November 29, 2016, the United against Jewish students, and negotiations between the Israelis and Pal- States House of Representatives unani- Whereas, leaders of the BDS movement ex- estinians, which must be actively rejected. press that their goal is to eliminate Israel as mously passed House Concurrent Resolution (4) Any future measures taken by any or- the national home of the Jewish people, and 165, expressing and reaffirming long-standing ganization, including the United Nations Se- Whereas, the BDS campaign’s call for aca- United States policy in support of a direct, curity Council, to impose an agreement or demic and cultural boycotts has been con- bilaterally negotiated settlement of the parameters for an agreement will set back demned by many of our nation’s largest aca- Israeli-Palestinian conflict and in opposition the peace process, harm the security of demic associations, more than 250 university to United Nations Security Council resolu- Israel, contradict the enduring bipartisan presidents, and many other leading scholars tions that impose a solution to the conflict, consensus on strengthening the United as a violation of the bedrock principle of and States-Israel relationship, and weaken sup- academic freedom, Now, therefore, be it Whereas, on December 23, 2016, the United port for such organizations. Resolved by the Senate of the State of Florida: States Permanent Representative to the (5) A durable and sustainable peace agree- That the Florida Senate condemns the inter- United Nations disregarded House Concur- ment between Israel and the Palestinians is national Boycott, Divestment and Sanctions rent Resolution 165 and departed from long- only possible with direct, bilateral negotia- movement against the State of Israel and standing United States policy by abstaining tions between the parties resulting in a Jew- calls upon the governmental institutions of and permitting United Nations Security ish, democratic state living next to a demili- this state to denounce hatred and discrimi- Council Resolution 2334 to be adopted under tarized Palestinian state in peace and secu- nation whenever they appear and be it fur- Chapter VI of the United Nations Charter, rity. ther and (6) The United States government should Resolved that the Florida Senate urges the Whereas, the United States’ abstention on work to facilitate serious, direct, uncondi- President of the United States to order with- United Nations Security Council Resolution tional negotiations between the parties to- drawal of the United States Customs and 2334 contradicts the Oslo Accords and its as- ward a sustainable peace agreement. Border Protection statement dated January sociated process that is predicated on resolv- (7) The United States government should 23, 2016, entitled ‘‘West Bank Country of Ori- ing the Israeli-Palestinian conflict between oppose and veto future one-sided, anti-Israel gin Marking Requirements,’’ so that goods the parties through direct, bilateral negotia- United Nations Security Council resolutions made in the West Bank can continue to be tions, and that seek to impose solutions to final-status properly labeled ‘‘Made in Israel.’’ and be it Whereas, United Nations Security Council issues. And be it further Resolved that the Florida Senate opposes further Resolution 2334 claims that ‘‘the establish- and requests the repeal of United Nations Se- Resolved that copies of this resolution be ment by Israel of settlements in the Pales- curity Council Resolution 2334 or the funda- presented to the President of the United tinian territory occupied since 1967, includ- mental alteration of the resolution so that States, the President and Secretary of the ing East Jerusalem, has no legal validity and constitutes a flagrant violation under inter- it: United States Senate, and the Speaker and (1) Is no longer one-sided and anti-Israel. Clerk of the United States House of Rep- national law and a major obstacle to the achievement of the two-State solution and a (2) Authorizes all final-status issues to- resentatives, and to the Embassy of Israel in ward a two-state solution to be resolved Washington, D.C., for transmission to the just, lasting and comprehensive peace,’’ and Whereas, by referring to the ‘‘4 June 1967 through direct, bilateral ‘negotiations be- proper authorities of the State of Israel as a lines’’ as the basis for negotiations, United tween the parties involved. And be it further tangible token of the sentiments expressed Nations Security Council Resolution 2334 ef- Resolved that copies of this resolution be herein. presented to the President of the United fectively states that the Jewish Quarter of States, the President and Secretary of the the Old City of Jerusalem and the Western POM–20. A resolution adopted by the Sen- United States Senate, the Speaker and Clerk Wall, Judaism’s holiest site, are ‘‘occupied ate of the State of Florida opposing United of the United States House of Representa- territory,’’ thereby equating these sites with Nations Security Council Resolution 2334 tives, and the Israeli Embassy in Wash- outposts in the West Bank which the Israeli and requesting its repeal or fundamental al- ington, D.C., for transmission to the proper government has deemed illegal, and teration; to the Committee on Foreign Rela- authorities of the State of Israel as a tan- Whereas, passage of United Nations Secu- tions. gible token of the sentiments expressed here- rity Council Resolution 2334 effectively le- in. SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 574 gitimizes efforts by the Palestinian Author- Whereas, the United States has long sup- ity to impose its own solution through inter- f ported a negotiated settlement leading to a national organizations and unjustified boy- REPORTS OF COMMITTEES sustainable two-state solution with the cotts or divestment campaigns against Israel democratic, Jewish state of Israel and a de- by calling ‘‘upon all States, bearing in mind The following reports of committees militarized, democratic Palestinian state paragraph 1 of this resolution, to distin- were submitted: living side-by-side in peace and security, and guish, in their relevant dealings, between the By Mr. BARRASSO, from the Committee Whereas, since 1993, the United States has territory of the State of Israel and the terri- on Environment and Public Works, with an facilitated direct, bilateral negotiations be- tories occupied since 1967,’’ and will require amendment in the nature of a substitute:

VerDate Sep 11 2014 04:09 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00036 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.013 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3009 S. 518. A bill to amend the Federal Water tutes of Health with respect to Tourette syn- S. 1158. A bill to help prevent acts of geno- Pollution Control Act to provide for tech- drome; to the Committee on Health, Edu- cide and other atrocity crimes, which threat- nical assistance for small treatment works cation, Labor, and Pensions. en national and international security, by (Rept. No. 115–71). By Mr. BROWN (for himself, Mrs. CAP- enhancing United States Government capac- By Mr. BARRASSO, from the Committee ITO, Mr. KING, and Mr. PORTMAN): ities to prevent, mitigate, and respond to on Environment and Public Works, without S. 1148. A bill to amend title XIX of the So- such crises; to the Committee on Foreign Re- amendment: cial Security Act to provide States with the lations. S. 675. A bill to amend and reauthorize cer- option of providing medical assistance at a By Mr. BLUNT (for himself, Mr. tain provisions relating to Long Island residential pediatric recovery center to in- BLUMENTHAL, Mr. ROBERTS, and Mr. Sound restoration and stewardship (Rept. fants under 1 year of age with neonatal ab- MORAN): No. 115–72). stinence syndrome and their families; to the S. 1159. A bill to protect consumers from By Mr. BARRASSO, from the Committee Committee on Finance. discriminatory State taxes on motor vehicle on Environment and Public Works, with an By Ms. MURKOWSKI: rentals; to the Committee on Finance. amendment in the nature of a substitute: S. 1149. A bill to amend the Alaska Native By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself and Claims Settlement Act to repeal a provision S. 826. A bill to reauthorize the Partners Mr. DURBIN): limiting the export of timber harvested from for Fish and Wildlife Program and certain S. 1160. A bill to include Livingston Coun- land conveyed to the Kake Tribal Corpora- wildlife conservation funds, to establish ty, the city of Jonesboro in Union County, tion under that Act; to the Committee on prize competitions relating to the prevention and the city of Freeport in Stephenson Coun- Energy and Natural Resources. of wildlife poaching and trafficking, wildlife ty, Illinois, to the Lincoln National Heritage By Mr. KENNEDY: conservation, the management of invasive Area, and for other purposes; to the Com- S. 1150. A bill to amend title XIX of the So- mittee on Energy and Natural Resources. species, and the protection of endangered cial Security Act to require States to impose By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself, Ms. species, and for other purposes (Rept. No. a work requirement for able-bodied adults 115–73). COLLINS, and Mr. BLUMENTHAL): without dependents who are eligible for med- S. 1161. A bill to amend title 38, United By Mr. JOHNSON, from the Committee on ical assistance; to the Committee on Fi- Homeland Security and Governmental Af- States Code, to eliminate copayments by the nance. Department of Veterans Affairs for medi- fairs, without amendment: By Mrs. ERNST (for herself, Mr. BEN- S. 831. A bill to designate the facility of cines relating to preventative health serv- NET, Mrs. CAPITO, and Ms. WARREN): ices, and for other purposes; to the Com- the United States Postal Service located at S. 1151. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- mittee on Veterans’ Affairs. 120 West Pike Street in Canonsburg, Penn- enue Code of 1986 to provide a nonrefundable By Ms. WARREN (for herself, Mr. sylvania, as the ‘‘Police Officer Scott credit for working family caregivers; to the SCHUMER, Mrs. MURRAY, Ms. BALD- Bashioum Post Office Building’’. Committee on Finance. WIN, Mr. BENNET, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, By Mr. MERKLEY (for himself, Mr. f Mr. BOOKER, Mr. BROWN, Mr. CARDIN, PAUL, Mr. BENNET, Mr. WYDEN, Ms. Mr. CASEY, Ms. DUCKWORTH, Mr. DUR- INTRODUCTION OF BILLS AND WARREN, Mrs. MURRAY, Ms. CORTEZ BIN, Mr. FRANKEN, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, JOINT RESOLUTIONS MASTO, Mr. SCHATZ, and Mr. GARD- Ms. HARRIS, Ms. HASSAN, Mr. HEIN- NER): The following bills and joint resolu- S. 1152. A bill to create protections for de- RICH, Ms. HEITKAMP, Ms. HIRONO, Ms. tions were introduced, read the first pository institutions that provide financial KLOBUCHAR, Mr. LEAHY, Mr. MANCHIN, and second times by unanimous con- services to cannabis-related businesses, and Mr. MARKEY, Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. sent, and referred as indicated: for other purposes; to the Committee on MERKLEY, Mr. MURPHY, Mr. PETERS, Mr. REED, Mr. SANDERS, Mrs. SHA- By Mrs. MURRAY (for herself, Mr. Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs. HEEN, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. UDALL, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Mr. BOOKER, Ms. By Ms. BALDWIN (for herself and Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Mr. DUCKWORTH, Mr. FRANKEN, Mrs. MORAN): WYDEN, Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, and Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Ms. HASSAN, Ms. HIRONO, S. 1153. A bill to prohibit or suspend cer- MCCASKILL): Mr. MARKEY, Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. tain health care providers from providing non-Department of Veterans Affairs health S. 1162. A bill to amend the Higher Edu- MERKLEY, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Ms. WAR- cation Act of 1965 to provide for the refi- REN, and Mr. WYDEN): care services to veterans, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- nancing of certain Federal student loans, S. 1143. A bill to amend the Equal Credit and for other purposes; to the Committee on Opportunity Act to prohibit discrimination fairs. By Mr. BLUNT (for himself and Mrs. Finance. on account of sexual orientation or gender By Mr. CORNYN (for himself, Mr. NEL- identity when extending credit; to the Com- GILLIBRAND): S. 1154. A bill to amend title 37, United SON, Mr. HATCH, Mr. CRUZ, and Mr. mittee on Health, Education, Labor, and States Code, to provide for the housing COTTON): Pensions. treatment of members of the Armed Forces S. 1163. A bill to require the Secretary of By Mr. THUNE (for himself and Mr. and their spouses and dependents undergoing Veterans Affairs to ensure compliance of ROBERTS): a permanent change of station in the United medical facilities of the Department of Vet- S. 1144. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- States, and for other purposes; to the Com- erans Affairs with requirements relating to enue Code of 1986 to encourage business cre- mittee on Armed Services. the scheduling of appointments, to require ation by allowing faster recovery of start-up By Ms. BALDWIN (for herself, Mr. appointment by the President and confirma- and organizational expenses, to simplify ac- REED, Mr. KAINE, and Mr. BROWN): tion by the Senate of certain health care of- counting methods for small businesses, to S. 1155. A bill to amend title IV of the ficials of the Department, and for other pur- expand expensing and provide accelerated Higher Education Act of 1965 in order to in- poses; to the Committee on Veterans’ Af- cost recovery to encourage investment in crease the amount of financial support avail- fairs. new plants and equipment, and for other pur- able for working students; to the Committee By Mr. DAINES (for himself, Mr. NEL- poses; to the Committee on Finance. on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions. SON, Mrs. FISCHER, and Ms. KLO- By Ms. WARREN (for herself and Mr. By Mr. KAINE (for himself and Mr. BUCHAR): LANKFORD): WARNER): S. 1164. A bill to protect consumers from S. 1145. A bill to require adequate informa- S. 1156. A bill to amend the Internal Rev- deceptive practices with respect to online tion regarding the tax treatment of pay- enue Code of 1986 to allow rehabilitation ex- booking of hotel reservations, and for other ments under settlement agreements entered penditures for public school buildings to purposes; to the Committee on Commerce, into by Federal agencies, and for other pur- qualify for rehabilitation credit; to the Com- Science, and Transportation. poses; to the Committee on Homeland Secu- mittee on Finance. By Mr. MANCHIN (for himself and Mrs. rity and Governmental Affairs. By Mr. SCHATZ (for himself, Mr. JOHN- CAPITO): By Mrs. SHAHEEN (for herself and Mr. SON, and Mr. GARDNER): S. 1165. A bill to designate the medical cen- TESTER): S. 1157. A bill to establish the Vulner- ter of the Department of Veterans Affairs in S. 1146. A bill to enhance the ability of the ability Equities Review Board, and for other Huntington, West Virginia, as the Hershel Office of the National Ombudsman to assist purposes; to the Committee on Homeland Se- ‘‘Woody’’ Williams VA Medical Center; to small businesses in meeting regulatory re- curity and Governmental Affairs. the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs. quirements and develop outreach initiatives By Mr. CARDIN (for himself, Mr. By Mr. WARNER (for himself, Mr. to promote awareness of the services the Of- YOUNG, Mr. TILLIS, Mr. DURBIN, Mr. BLUNT, Mr. GRAHAM, and Mr. TILLIS): fice of the National Ombudsman provides, RUBIO, Mr. MENENDEZ, Ms. MUR- S. 1166. A bill to decrease the deficit by re- and for other purposes; to the Committee on KOWSKI, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Ms. WAR- aligning, consolidating, disposing, and im- Small Business and Entrepreneurship. REN, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Mrs. GILLI- proving the efficiency of Federal buildings By Mr. MENENDEZ: BRAND, Ms. KLOBUCHAR, Mrs. SHA- and other civilian real property, and for S. 1147. A bill to amend the Public Health HEEN, Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. PETERS, Mr. other purposes; to the Committee on Envi- Service Act to provide for the expansion, in- COONS, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. BOOKER, ronment and Public Works. tensification, and coordination of the pro- Mr. MARKEY, Mr. BROWN, Ms. BALD- By Mr. SCHATZ (for himself and Mr. grams and activities of the National Insti- WIN, and Mr. WYDEN): MORAN):

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00037 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.015 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S3010 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 S. 1167. A bill to require the Administrator tributions of travel and tourism to the 450, a bill to award a Congressional of the Federal Aviation Administration to United States; considered and agreed to. Gold Medal to members of the Armed evaluate and consider revising regulations f Forces who fought in defense of Guam, relating to emergency medical equipment re- Wake Island, and the Philippine Archi- quirements for passenger aircraft; to the ADDITIONAL COSPONSORS Committee on Commerce, Science, and pelago between December 7, 1941 and Transportation. S. 14 May 10, 1942, and who died or were im- By Mr. WARNER (for himself, Mr. At the request of Mr. HELLER, the prisoned by the Japanese military in BLUNT, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Mr. GRA- name of the Senator from Georgia (Mr. the Philippines, Japan, Korea, Man- HAM, Mr. COONS, Mr. HELLER, Ms. PERDUE) was added as a cosponsor of S. churia, Wake Island, and Guam from KLOBUCHAR, Mr. TILLIS, and Mr. 14, a bill to provide that Members of April 9, 1942 until September 2, 1945, in BLUMENTHAL): Congress may not receive pay after Oc- recognition of their personal sacrifice S. 1168. A bill to facilitate efficient invest- tober 1 of any fiscal year in which Con- and service to the United States. ments and financing of infrastructure projects and new, long-term job creation gress has not approved a concurrent S. 455 through the establishment of an Infrastruc- resolution on the budget and passed At the request of Mr. TESTER, the ture Financing Authority, and for other pur- the regular appropriations bills. name of the Senator from New Hamp- poses; to the Committee on Finance. S. 122 shire (Mrs. SHAHEEN) was added as a co- By Mr. DURBIN (for himself, Mr. At the request of Mr. HELLER, the sponsor of S. 455, a bill to amend title PORTMAN, Mr. BROWN, Mrs. CAPITO, name of the Senator from New York XVIII of the Social Security Act to Mr. KING, Ms. COLLINS, Mr. MANCHIN, ILLIBRAND and Mr. BOOKER): (Mrs. G ) was added as a co- count resident time spent in a critical S. 1169. A bill to amend title XIX of the So- sponsor of S. 122, a bill to prevent access hospital as resident time spent cial Security Act to provide States with an homeowners from being forced to pay in a nonprovider setting for purposes of option to provide medical assistance to indi- taxes on forgiven mortgage loan debt. making Medicare direct and indirect viduals between the ages of 22 and 64 for in- S. 198 graduate medical education payments. patient services to treat substance use dis- At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the S. 540 orders at certain facilities, and for other purposes; to the Committee on Finance. name of the Senator from Ohio (Mr. At the request of Mr. THUNE, the By Mrs. SHAHEEN: PORTMAN) was added as a cosponsor of name of the Senator from Indiana (Mr. S. 1170. A bill to impose sanctions with re- S. 198, a bill to require continued and YOUNG) was added as a cosponsor of S. spect to foreign persons responsible for gross enhanced annual reporting to Congress 540, a bill to limit the authority of violations of internationally recognized in the Annual Report on International States to tax certain income of em- human rights against lesbian, gay, bisexual, Religious Freedom on anti-Semitic in- ployees for employment duties per- and transgender (LGBT) individuals, and for cidents in Europe, the safety and secu- formed in other States. other purposes; to the Committee on Foreign rity of European Jewish communities, Relations. S. 546 and the efforts of the United States to At the request of Mr. BARRASSO, the f partner with European governments, name of the Senator from Missouri SUBMISSION OF CONCURRENT AND the European Union, and civil society (Mr. BLUNT) was added as a cosponsor SENATE RESOLUTIONS groups, to combat anti-Semitism, and of S. 546, a bill to reduce temporarily for other purposes. The following concurrent resolutions the royalty required to be paid for so- and Senate resolutions were read, and S. 244 dium produced on Federal lands, and referred (or acted upon), as indicated: At the request of Mr. LEE, the name for other purposes. of the Senator from Alabama (Mr. S. 652 By Mr. HELLER (for himself, Mr. GRA- TRANGE HAM, Mr. RUBIO, and Mr. CRUZ): S ) was added as a cosponsor of At the request of Mr. PORTMAN, the S. Res. 167. A resolution relating to the S. 244, a bill to repeal the wage require- name of the Senator from Arkansas recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of ment of the Davis-Bacon Act. (Mr. BOOZMAN) was added as a cospon- Israel and the relocation of the United S. 317 sor of S. 652, a bill to amend the Public States Embassy to Jerusalem; to the Com- At the request of Mr. LANKFORD, the Health Service Act to reauthorize a mittee on Foreign Relations. name of the Senator from Montana program for early detection, diagnosis, By Mr. CARDIN (for himself, Mr. ESTER RUBIO, Mr. TILLIS, Mr. WYDEN, Mr. (Mr. T ) was added as a cosponsor and treatment regarding deaf and hard- DURBIN, Mr. CORNYN, Ms. STABENOW, of S. 317, a bill to provide taxpayers of-hearing newborns, infants, and Mr. COONS, Mr. GARDNER, Mr. BOOK- with an annual report disclosing the young children. ER, Mr. BROWN, Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. cost and performance of Government S. 708 VAN HOLLEN, Mr. MERKLEY, and Mr. programs and areas of duplication At the request of Mr. MARKEY, the WARNER): among them, and for other purposes. name of the Senator from New York S. Res. 168. A resolution supporting respect S. 324 for human rights and encouraging inclusive (Mrs. GILLIBRAND) was added as a co- governance in Ethiopia; to the Committee on At the request of Mr. HATCH, the sponsor of S. 708, a bill to improve the Foreign Relations. name of the Senator from Arkansas ability of U.S. Customs and Border By Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself and (Mr. COTTON) was added as a cosponsor Protection to interdict fentanyl, other Mr. DURBIN): of S. 324, a bill to amend title 38, synthetic opioids, and other narcotics S. Res. 169. A resolution congratulating United States Code, to improve the and psychoactive substances that are Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory on provision of adult day health care serv- illegally imported into the United 50 years of groundbreaking discoveries; to ices for veterans. States, and for other purposes. the Committee on Energy and Natural Re- sources. S. 445 S. 720 By Mr. DONNELLY (for himself, Mr. At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the PORTMAN, Mr. BROWN, Mr. HEINRICH, names of the Senator from Michigan name of the Senator from North Caro- Mr. NELSON, Mr. PETERS, Mr. REED, (Ms. STABENOW), the Senator from lina (Mr. BURR) was added as a cospon- Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Ms. North Dakota (Ms. HEITKAMP) and the sor of S. 720, a bill to amend the Export WARREN, and Mrs. GILLIBRAND): Senator from Oregon (Mr. MERKLEY) Administration Act of 1979 to include S. Res. 170. A resolution expressing the sense of the Senate that defense laboratories were added as cosponsors of S. 445, a in the prohibitions on boycotts against are on the cutting-edge of scientific and bill to amend title XVIII of the Social allies of the United States boycotts technological advancement, and supporting Security Act to ensure more timely ac- fostered by international governmental the designation of May 18, 2017, as ‘‘Depart- cess to home health services for Medi- organizations against Israel and to di- ment of Defense Laboratory Day’’; consid- care beneficiaries under the Medicare rect the Export-Import Bank of the ered and agreed to. program. United States to oppose boycotts By Ms. KLOBUCHAR (for herself, Mr. S. 450 against Israel, and for other purposes. BLUNT, Mr. SCHATZ, and Mr. HELLER): S. Res. 171. A resolution supporting the At the request of Mr. MANCHIN, the S. 765 goals and ideals of National Travel and Tour- name of the Senator from Florida (Mr. At the request of Mr. PERDUE, the ism Week and honoring the valuable con- NELSON) was added as a cosponsor of S. name of the Senator from Maine (Ms.

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S. 808 work-related injuries and illnesses is Our Nation has the highest corporate At the request of Mr. THUNE, the an ongoing obligation. tax rate in the developed world, put- name of the Senator from Louisiana S. 1137 ting American businesses at a competi- (Mr. KENNEDY) was added as a cospon- At the request of Mr. CARDIN, the tive disadvantage in the global econ- sor of S. 808, a bill to provide protec- names of the Senator from Arkansas omy. Small businesses and family farms tions for certain sports medicine pro- (Mr. BOOZMAN), the Senator from Okla- face high tax rates, at times exceeding fessionals who provide certain medical homa (Mr. INHOFE) and the Senator those paid by large corporations. These services in a secondary State. from Illinois (Ms. DUCKWORTH) were tax policies have consequences. A added as cosponsors of S. 1137, a bill to S. 936 small company that owes a large tax amend the Safe Drinking Water Act At the request of Mr. WHITEHOUSE, bill to the Federal Government is un- and the Federal Water Pollution Con- the name of the Senator from Min- likely to be able to come up with the trol Act to include provisions relating nesota (Mr. FRANKEN) was added as a capital necessary to expand the busi- to drinking water and wastewater in- cosponsor of S. 936, a bill to designate ness or hire new workers. certain National Forest System land frastructure, and for other purposes. When American businesses are taxed and certain public land under the juris- S. RES. 75 at a far higher rate than their foreign diction of the Secretary of the Interior At the request of Mr. PORTMAN, the counterparts, it is likely to be the for- in the States of Idaho, Montana, Or- name of the Senator from Alabama eign rather than the American com- egon, Washington, and Wyoming as (Mr. STRANGE) was added as a cospon- pany that expands and thrives. Tax re- wilderness, wild and scenic rivers, sor of S. Res. 75, a resolution recog- form needs to address these obstacles wildland recovery areas, and biological nizing the 100th anniversary of the to growth. Later this year, the Senate connecting corridors, and for other Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, plans to consider a major tax reform purposes. the largest organization of food and nu- package. Two of the most powerful tax- S. 951 trition professionals in the world. related things we can do to increase At the request of Mr. PAUL, his name S. RES. 106 economic growth are lowering business was added as a cosponsor of S. 951, a At the request of Mr. WICKER, the tax rates and allowing business to re- bill to reform the process by which names of the Senator from West Vir- cover their investments in inventory, Federal agencies analyze and formu- ginia (Mrs. CAPITO) and the Senator machinery, and the like faster. late new regulations and guidance doc- from Georgia (Mr. PERDUE) were added The Senate tax bill will do both. uments, and for other purposes. as cosponsors of S. Res. 106, a resolu- Today, I am introducing legislation that I hope will be a part of the final S. 1024 tion expressing the sense of the Senate tax reform package in the Senate. My At the request of Mr. ISAKSON, the to support the territorial integrity of Georgia. bill—I am calling it the Investment in names of the Senator from Utah (Mr. New Ventures and Economic Success HATCH), the Senator from West Vir- f Today Act, or the INVEST Act for ginia (Mrs. CAPITO) and the Senator STATEMENTS ON INTRODUCED short—focuses on helping small- and from Maine (Ms. COLLINS) were added BILLS AND JOINT RESOLUTIONS medium-sized businesses by allowing as cosponsors of S. 1024, a bill to amend By Mr. THUNE (for himself and them to recover their costs faster. title 38, United States Code, to reform Earlier this year, the Economic Inno- the rights and processes relating to ap- Mr. ROBERTS): S. 1144. A bill to amend the Internal vation Group released a report on eco- peals of decisions regarding claims for nomic dynamism. Economic dyna- benefits under the laws administered Revenue Code of 1986 to encourage business creation by allowing faster re- mism, as the Economic Innovation by the Secretary of Veterans Affairs, Group defines it, refers to the rate at and for other purposes. covery of start-up and organizational expenses, to simplify accounting meth- which new businesses are born and die. S. 1055 In a dynamic economy, the rate of new ods for small businesses, to expand ex- ARDIN business creation is high and signifi- At the request of Mr. C , the pensing and provide accelerated cost cantly outstrips the rate of business name of the Senator from Delaware recovery to encourage investment in deaths, but that hasn’t been the case in (Mr. COONS) was added as a cosponsor new plants and equipment, and for of S. 1055, a bill to restrict the expor- the United States lately. other purposes; to the Committee on New business creation has signifi- tation of certain defense articles to the Finance. Philippine National Police, to work cantly dropped over the past several Mr. THUNE. Mr. President, there is years. Between 2009 and 2011, business with the Philippines to support civil no doubt that the last 8 years were not society and a public health approach to deaths outstripped business births. good ones for the American economy. While the numbers have since im- substance abuse, to report on Chinese Yearly economic growth under the and other sources of narcotics to the proved slightly, the recovery has been Obama administration averaged just poor and far from historical norms. Republic of the Philippines, and for under 1.5 percent. That is less than half other purposes. The Economic Innovation Group the growth needed for a healthy econ- notes that 2012, the economy’s best S. 1094 omy. That kind of weak growth has year for business creation since the re- At the request of Mr. RUBIO, the consequences: fewer jobs, fewer oppor- cession, ‘‘fell far short of its worst year names of the Senator from Mississippi tunities, and lower wages. prior to 2008.’’ Well, this is deeply con- (Mr. COCHRAN) and the Senator from Wage growth was almost nonexistent cerning because new businesses have Alaska (Mr. SULLIVAN) were added as during the Obama administration, and historically been responsible for a sub- cosponsors of S. 1094, a bill to amend new jobs and opportunities were few stantial part of the job creation in this title 38, United States Code, to improve and far between. There have been a few country, not to mention a key source the accountability of employees of the encouraging signs since the election. of innovation. Department of Veterans Affairs, and Both wage and job growth have shown When new businesses are not being for other purposes. some improvement, but we are still a created at a strong rate, workers face a S. 1122 long way from getting our economy whole host of problems. A less dynamic At the request of Mrs. MURRAY, the back to full health. The GDP report for economy—the Economic Innovation name of the Senator from Pennsyl- the first quarter of this year under- Group notes—‘‘is one likely to feature vania (Mr. CASEY) was added as a co- scored the need to implement the kind fewer jobs, lower labor force participa- sponsor of S. 1122, a bill to amend the of progrowth policies that were lacking tion, slack wage growth, and rising in- Occupational Safety and Health Act of during the Obama years. equality, exactly what we see today.’’

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If erty, or agricultural equipment over an achieve a future of strong economic we want to see our economy thriving extended period—anywhere from 5 to 10 growth—the kind of strong growth that again, we need to be encouraging the years or as many as 39 years for com- will fuel employment and wage growth, creation of new businesses, but our Tax mercial buildings. That could leave a along with greater opportunities for Code, too often, does the opposite. farm or a business with its cash tied up American workers. My bill, the INVEST Act, would en- for years in all the property it takes to I hope the INVEST Act will help us courage new business creation by al- run the enterprise. Of course, that develop the kind of tax reform legisla- lowing new enterprises to deduct a sub- means a farm, LLC, or S corporation tion that will help us restore strong, stantial part of their startup costs can spend years without being able to sustainable economic growth, and I am within the first year. Under current increase its investment in a business or looking forward to working with Chair- law, new businesses are only able to de- to hire new workers. man HATCH and all of my colleagues on duct $5,000 of their startup costs within My bill would permanently allow all the Senate Finance Committee to put their first year. Any startup expenses businesses to deduct 50 percent of their together the final bill and to get it to above that amount can be deducted, investment in equipment, vehicles, ma- the President. but that deduction is stretched out chinery, and certain other kinds of It is time that we give the American over a 15-year period. That is a long property during the year in which they people a tax code that actually works time. are purchased. It would also help small for them. The faster a new business can recover and medium-sized farms and businesses By Mr. KENNEDY: its startup costs, the faster it can es- to recover an even greater portion of S. 1150. A bill to amend title XIX of tablish itself on a secure footing. En- their capital investments by allowing the Social Security Act to require trepreneurs are far more likely to take them to deduct at least $2 million of States to impose a work requirement the risk of starting a new venture if new investments in business property. for able-bodied adults without depend- they know they will be able to recover My bill expands current law so addi- ents who are eligible for medical as- their startup costs quickly. My bill tional building improvements—things sistance; to the Committee on Finance. would substantially increase the like roofs, heating, and air condi- Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I amount of a business’s startup costs tioning units would qualify for imme- would like to talk today about the that can be deducted in the first year diate expensing. Farmers and ranchers need for a work requirement in our from $5,000 to $50,000. who may reach the limit on full ex- Medicaid Program. In 1969, President Plus, any additional startup costs pensing are not forgotten either. The Lyndon Johnson addressed the Amer- can be deducted over a 10-year period bill substantially increases the rate at ican people, and he talked about break- instead of the current 15. This will go a which they can deduct the costs of ing the cycle of poverty. This is what long way toward encouraging new busi- tractors, combines, and other machin- President Johnson said: ness creation and the economic dyna- ery. I believe . . . that the key to success in mism that comes along with it. Finally, for those farms and busi- this effort is jobs. It is work for people who The second part of my bill focuses on nesses that rely on cars, light trucks, want to work. increasing cashflow for businesses, and vans, this bill would substantially President Johnson, as we know, was farms and ranches, and particularly increase the amount of their vehicle a Democrat. He fervently believed that those that operate as corporations and investment that can be deducted when the people of Louisiana didn’t want partnerships, by allowing them to use the business determines its taxable in- handouts. Most people want a chance the so-called cash method of account- come each year. Currently, a light to support themselves. President John- ing. Under current law, these busi- truck used on a farm or ranch could son also believed that Medicaid, as nesses, farms, and ranches are gen- cost upwards of $30,000. Yet a farmer is originally envisioned, would be a safety erally forced to use what is called ac- only allowed to deduct $19,000 of that net for the disabled, the elderly, and crual accounting. Basically, what that cost over the required recovery period people with small children. Medicaid is means is, a business has to pay tax on for a business vehicle. My bill would not exactly that; it is dramatically dif- income before it receives the cash, and substantially increase that limit to ferent. it cannot deduct all of its expenses bring it more in line with the real- Whether you agree or disagree with when it pays the invoice. world costs of business vehicles. what has happened to Medicaid, the For a company with inventory, this These changes to expensing rules all fact is that it has turned into a health means it has to deduct the investments have one goal: putting more money insurance program for about 20 percent it makes over an extended period of back in the hands of business owners— of all Americans. Think about that. We time. A small business might have to particularly, small business owners, have roughly 320 million people in our spend the majority of its available cash farmers, and ranchers. Forcing busi- country, and fully 25 percent are on on inventory but be unable to fully de- ness owners, farmers, and ranchers to Medicaid. It gets bigger and bigger duct that expense until all of that in- lock up their capital for 5, 10, or nearly every year, and it gets more expensive ventory is sold. 40 years discourages growth and job every year. You can see that the num- In the case of some businesses, it creation. Under my bill, businesses, bers speak for themselves. You can see might be well beyond the current tax farms, and ranches would be able to re- the trend. You can certainly see that year before that substantial invest- deploy that hard-to-raise capital back we started in 1966, and you can particu- ment can be fully deducted. That can into business expansion, increase in larly see the trend beginning in 1996 leave a business increasingly cash poor. wages, new jobs, and even new ven- and its trajectory. Cash poor businesses don’t expand. tures. It also became more expensive. The They don’t hire new workers. They The Congressional Budget Office pre- cost of our Medicaid Program in 1966 don’t increase wages. dicts that the economy will grow at a was $1 billion. That is a lot of money. Well, the INVEST Act would allow rate of just 1.9 percent over the next 30 This is the cost of last year: $576 billion businesses to deduct investments and years. That is a full percentage point and climbing. inventory up front, leaving them with lower than the average growth rate Let me talk about our State alone. In more cash on hand to put back into over the past 50 years, which was over Louisiana, the cost of Medicaid has in- their operations. It would also reduce 3 percent, or between 3.2 and 3.5. That creased from $5.9 billion in 2008 to $10.7 the need for businesses to hire armies will mean decades of fewer jobs and op- billion today, and 65 percent of all of of lawyers and accountants to ensure portunities, low wage growth, and a re- the babies born in Louisiana every year that they have properly adhered to duced standard of living. We don’t want now are born on Medicaid. Think about complex accounting rules. to resign ourselves to that, and we that.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00040 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.024 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3013 We know that Medicaid is a Federal- don’t want to get a job, you have to Now, these requirements have been a State program. The Federal Govern- perform community service for 20 success. We all know that, not just for ment puts up some of the money; the hours a week. My goal is to get people stemming the costs of those programs State puts up some of the money, as off Medicaid and into the workforce, so but also for helping people—helping well. In Louisiana, we put up about they can support themselves and not Americans build careers. one-third of the money. In Louisiana need Medicaid. Yet we do not have a requirement—a dollars, in 2008, we were putting up $1.7 I don’t want to take Medicaid away work requirement—for Medicaid. If my billion in State money. It is called the from people in need. I do want fewer bill passes, we will. Work requirements match for the Medicaid Program. people to need Medicaid. So if you are exist because these programs are sup- Today, the State of Louisiana is paying disabled, if you are pregnant, if you are posed to be safety nets. That is what a $3.3 billion. You can do the math. That elderly, if you are caring for a child, social program is, a safety net. They is about a 10 percent increase every my bill doesn’t apply to you. I am not are not supposed to exist to perma- year. talking about telling a mother with a nently support you if you can support If we are spending $3.3 billion of baby in her arms that she has to go yourself. State money, that means every year, find a job, and I am not going to ask an Our social programs in America are just like clockwork, we have to come elderly person in a nursing home to meant to be bridges. In way too many up with an extra $330 million. I can tell leave the nursing home and go get a respects, they have become parking you where that money comes from. It job in order to receive Medicaid. All lots. Medicaid costs are not just a na- comes out of public schools, it comes my bill says is that if you are young by tional problem. The program’s expan- out of universities, it comes out of our today’s standards, between 18 and 55, sion is clipping the wings of States like budget for roads, and it comes out of you are able-bodied and you have no Louisiana and like Alaska because, as I our budget for public safety. children or dependents, then you have pointed out, the States have to put up We have a choice in America. Either to go get a job or you have to go to a substantial amount of the money. Medicaid is going to be, as we origi- school or you have to perform commu- We are becoming a country in which nally envisioned it, a safety net for the nity service. people subsist instead of thrive because old, the disabled, and mothers with ba- I want to be very clear about some- they don’t know the rewards of work. bies or it is going to be a health insur- thing else. In my State, we have a lot We have become a country in which ance program for the masses. of flood victims. We had terrible flood- poverty is a way of life for way too If the American people and Congress ing last year. In my State, Louisiana, many people. That is just sad. More decide that Medicaid is going to be a we have a depression in the oil and gas than 50 years after Medicaid began, it health insurance program for the gen- industry; indeed, we do throughout is time to break the back of poverty eral population, then it needs to oper- America, and I know we do in the great once and for all. We can start with a ate as health insurance does in the pri- State of Alaska as well. I am not look- work requirement for Medicaid. vate sector. In other words, able-bodied ing to add to their hurt. I am working Thank you. adult enrollees in Medicaid should be very hard, as are you, Mr. President, to required to work in order to receive put our oilfield workers back to work By Mr. KAINE (for himself and their benefits, if they are able. and to get our flood victims the assist- Mr. WARNER): I am filing a bill that is going to be ance they need to recover from the S. 1156. A bill to amend the Internal entitled the ‘‘Medicaid Reform and tragedy that has befallen them. This Revenue Code of 1986 to allow rehabili- Personal Responsibility Act of 2017.’’ It bill is not about them. This bill is tation expenditures for public school is going to create a work requirement about able-bodied adults between the buildings to qualify for rehabilitation for Medicaid. My reason is simple. I ages of 18 and 55 who have no depend- credit; to the Committee on Finance. want Americans to prosper. I don’t ents and who have been unemployed for Mr. KAINE. Mr. President, today I want our people to remain mired in years, in many cases, by their own want to discuss legislation I am intro- poverty. I want to break poverty’s choosing. ducing, the School Infrastructure Mod- back by creating a system that doesn’t Our country has grown a lot and ernization Act. force the American people to subsist on evolved a lot since Medicaid was intro- To claim the federal tax credit for handouts from government, and the duced in 1965. We now face new chal- historic preservation, a building ren- best way to do that is to provide an in- lenges, both at home and abroad. We ovation must be for a different purpose centive for able-bodied Americans to know that. Medicaid has grown, as than that for which the building was know the dignity of work because a well, but it hasn’t evolved in a positive previously used, a requirement known person without a job is neither happy, way, in my opinion. Just 3 years after as the ‘‘prior use’’ rule. This bill waives nor is he free. Medicaid was founded, we knew we that requirement for renovations of K– I think my bill is a commonsense ap- were going to have a problem finding 12 public school buildings. This will proach to reducing America’s reliance the money, given the exponential make it easier to restore historic-but- on entitlement programs. The work re- growth in the program, and more than dilapidated school buildings across the quirement will be very simple. It will 50 years later, it is way past time to do country so our children have safe, mod- be similar to the program that we have something about it. ern spaces in which to learn. in place—the work requirement we We have to break the back of pov- As a Richmond City Council member have in place right now for food erty. This is not about throwing people and later Mayor, I faced challenges fa- stamps. out into the cold. This is about helping miliar to many municipalities—over- This is what my bill would require: If them to know that they can get work crowded schools, aging buildings, and you are on Medicaid or want to receive because the best program—the best so- limited dollars in the budget. But in Medicaid, and you are an adult between cial program in the entire world is a one particular case, I and a group of the ages of 18 and 55, and you are able- job. By implementing a work require- local stakeholders identified a creative bodied, you are not disabled, and you ment for able-bodied adults, Medicaid solution. On one hand we had an over- don’t have any dependents, you don’t will evolve to the next logical step. Our crowded Thomas Jefferson High School have any children—so if you are 18 to goal ought to be to ensure, of course, with in-zone and magnet students. On 55, you are not disabled, and you don’t that people are healthy. That is what the other hand, we had a closed Maggie have any children, then in order to re- Medicaid exists for, but if you are Walker High School that needed ren- ceive Medicaid or to continue to re- healthy, then the next step is to help ovations. We put together a financing ceive Medicaid, you have to either you join the workforce. package that made use of federal and work 20 hours a week—not 40 hours a The simple fact is, this is nothing state historic tax credits to renovate week but 20 hours a week—you have to new or extraordinary. We already have Maggie Walker High School and satis- look for a job or you have to go back to work requirements—required by acts of fied the prior use rule by consolidating school if you don’t want to work. Or if this Congress—for unemployment as- the magnet program from Thomas Jef- you don’t want to go back to school or sistance, for welfare benefits, for sub- ferson into a new Maggie Walker Gov- you don’t want to look for a job or you sidized housing, and for food stamps. ernor’s School for Government and

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00041 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\G17MY6.025 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S3014 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 International Studies. Today, some 20 and dehumanization, including slaugh- mass atrocities . . . threaten core U.S. years later, this is one of America’s tering and sequestration, that many national interests.’’ In 2010, the Senate highest performing public high schools. experts believe their suffering amounts unanimously passed a resolution recog- Without the federal historic tax credit, to genocide. Moreover, in Syria, re- nizing ‘‘the United States national in- this would have been too expensive to peatedly, we see a government commit- terest in helping to prevent and miti- make happen. ting atrocities against its own people. gate acts of genocide and other mass This bill will make it easier to do Children are being gassed. Hospitals atrocities against civilians, and sup- similar projects around the country. are being bombed. Innocent people are porting and encouraging efforts to de- More modern school buildings will bol- being tortured to death. velop a whole of government approach ster the quality of public education, Too often, we have done too little, to prevent and mitigate such acts.’’ In and carrying out these projects will waited too long, or been caught unpre- 2011, President Obama declared: ‘‘Pre- generate private sector infrastructure pared by events that should not have venting mass atrocities and genocide is investment and jobs. In Virginia alone, surprised us. We continue to forget the a core national security interest and a according to a 2013 study, more than lessons of the past and fail to live up to core moral responsibility of the United 800 K–12 schools are at least 50 years the post-Holocaust pledge of ‘‘Never States of America.’’ The same year, old, representing some 40% of all the Again.’’ Ignoring the genocide, war former U.S. Permanent Representative K–12 schools in the Commonwealth. crimes, and crimes against humanity to the United Nations Samantha Power As the Senate considers tax reform that continue to rage around the world stated that preventing genocide ‘‘re- and a comprehensive infrastructure sends a message to the global commu- quired a degree of governmental orga- package, I encourage my colleagues to nity that criminal atrocities are toler- nization that matches the kind of me- support this common-sense incentive able. We must do better to see that thodical organization that accom- that is good for education, good for in- atrocities never again occur on our panies mass-killings.’’ frastructure, and good for jobs. watch. We need to continue taking proactive On April 7, I introduced the Syrian steps to enhance our Nation’s capacity By Mr. CARDIN (for himself, Mr. War Crimes Accountability Act, which to quickly anticipate and address geno- YOUNG, Mr. TILLIS, Mr. DURBIN, expands the tools the U.S. government cide and other atrocity crimes. I am in- Mr. RUBIO, Mr. MENENDEZ, Ms. is using to document atrocities in troducing the Elie Wiesel Genocide and MURKOWSKI, Mr. BLUMENTHAL, Syria and hold President Bashar al- Atrocities Prevention Act of 2017 to en- Ms. WARREN, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Assad and other perpetrators account- sure that we do just that. I am joined Mrs. GILLIBRAND, Ms. KLO- able. Today, under the heavy cloud of in this effort by Senators YOUNG, BUCHAR, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. atrocities occurring in South Sudan, TILLIS, DURBIN, RUBIO, MENENDEZ, FRANKEN, Mr. PETERS, Mr. Iraq, Burma, Syria, and elsewhere, I MURKOWSKI, BLUMENTHAL, WARREN, COONS, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. am introducing another atrocity-re- WHITEHOUSE, GILLIBRAND, KLOBUCHAR, BOOKER, Mr. MARKEY, Mr. lated bill, the Elie Wiesel Genocide and SHAHEEN, FRANKEN, PETERS, COONS, BROWN, Ms. BALDWIN, and Mr. Atrocities Prevention Act of 2017. This STABENOW, BOOKER, MARKEY, BROWN, WYDEN): bill—named in honor of the coura- BALDWIN, and WYDEN. This bill does a S. 1158. A bill to help prevent acts of geous, inspiring Holocaust survivor and number of things. First, the bill au- genocide and other atrocity crimes, Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel—strength- thorizes the creation of a Mass Atroc- which threaten national and inter- ens the U.S. government’s infrastruc- ities Task Force, which is a transnational security, by enhancing United ture to prevent and respond to mass parent, accountable, proactive, high- States Government capacities to pre- atrocities, wherever they may occur. level, interagency body that includes vent, mitigate, and respond to such cri- I am here today to stress that our representatives at the assistant sec- ses; to the Committee on Foreign Rela- job, our responsibility, is to make sure retary level or higher from depart- tions. the United States has the full arsenal ments and agencies across the U.S. Mr. CARDIN. Mr. President, April of tools—diplomatic, economic, and Government. The Task Force would was Genocide Awareness and Preven- legal—to take meaningful action be- work collaboratively with representa- tion Month. It commemorated some of fore atrocities occur. The costs—both tives of governmental as well as non- the most horrific genocides and atroc- human and economic—of addressing governmental organizations to oversee ities of the 20th century: the siege of these atrocities too late or after-the- the development and implementation Sarajevo in April 1992, the Rwandan fact are skyrocketing. The United of U.S. policy on atrocity prevention genocide in April 1992; the Cambodian States must do a better job of respond- and response. genocide in April 1975; and, the Arme- ing earlier and more effectively to Second, this bill gives our Foreign nian genocide in April 1915. Last, Yom these crimes—when warning signs Service Officers the training they need Hashoah or Holocaust Remembrance begin to point towards possible atroc- to recognize patterns of escalation and Day fell during the month of April this ities occurring, and when strategic in- early warning signs of potential atroc- year. vestments can have a greater impact in ities and conflict. With this training, We must remember the past. And we promoting stability and security. Es- we will, over time, build atrocity pre- must also be mindful of the present and sential to this effort is ensuring that vention into the core skillset of our the future. As we know all too well, the United States Government has people on the ground. They will be bet- criminal atrocities persist around the structures in place and mechanisms at ter equipped to see warning signs, ana- globe. In South Sudan, the world’s hand to better prevent and respond to lyze events, and engage early. youngest nation, a political and ethnic potential atrocities. Third, this bill calls on the Director conflict is now in its fourth year. Tens Atrocity prevention has long been a of National Intelligence to include in of thousands of civilians were killed in bipartisan cause. In 1988, President his or her annual testimony to Con- mass atrocities and thousands more Reagan signed implementing legisla- gress on threats to U.S. national secu- have fled the country fearing for their tion allowing the United States to be- rity a review of countries and regions lives. In Iraq, ISIS has committed come a party to the Convention on the at risk of mass atrocities as well as, genocide against Yezidis, Christians, Prevention and Punishment of the whenever possible, specific risk factors, and Shiite Muslims, a determination Crime of Genocide. In the 2006 National potential groups of perpetrators, and made by former U.S. Secretary of State Security Strategy, President George at-risk target groups. With this infor- John Kerry last year. ISIS has killed, W. Bush highlighted the ‘‘moral imper- mation, Congress will be better in- expelled, raped, and enslaved Yezidi ative that states take action to pre- formed and better able to respond to men, women, and children in northern vent and punish genocide.’’ In 2008, the mass atrocities that are brewing. Iraq, and has committed similar atroc- bipartisan Genocide Prevention Task Finally, this bill authorizes the Com- ities against other groups living in Force, which was co-chaired by former plex Crises Fund, which is a specifi- areas under its control. Secretary of Defense William Cohen cally dedicated portion of our foreign In Burma, the Rohingya Muslim and former Secretary of State Mad- assistance budget for mitigating con- community faces such severe violence eleine Albright, stated: ‘‘Genocide and flict. The Complex Crises Fund enables

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00042 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.021 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3015 us to rapidly respond to emerging cri- borrowers. That is why, today, I join 36 they don’t think they have a responsi- ses overseas, including potential atroc- of my Democratic colleagues in the bility to act in the best interests of ities. We have already used the Com- Senate and 98 of my Democratic col- students. plex Crises Fund to respond to crises in leagues in the House of Representa- Rally speeches don’t mean much the Central African Republic, Cote tives to reintroduce our plan to allow when this administration is ripping up d’Ivoire, Guinea, Kenya, Sri Lanka, borrowers to lower their monthly pay- policies that would have made it hard- and elsewhere. Without this important ment by refinancing their existing er for greedy student loan companies tool, our ability to effectively prevent loans to today’s lower interest rates, to rake in lucrative government con- and mitigate crises is severely con- 3.76 percent for undergrads, a little tracts while cheating students. Last strained. higher for graduate students. year’s rhetoric means nothing to the Mr. President, this is a good bill. It Supporting America’s students struggling borrowers who can now be does good things, and places the United should not be a political food fight. In charged sky-high fees—as high as 16 States on solid moral ground. However, fact, President Trump talked about percent—by student loan collection the moral argument is not the only student loans when he was on the cam- companies thanks to yet another pol- reason to support this bill. We must paign trial, including a plan to reduce icy Betsy DeVos ripped up. also remember that America’s secu- the maximum number of years for re- Students know what is going on. The rity, and that of our allies, is impacted payment for most students. loan companies know too. Industry when civilians are slaughtered. Our se- As a candidate, Donald Trump said stocks have skyrocketed since Novem- curity is impacted when desperate refu- that ‘‘students should not be asked to ber. Mr. President, keep your promise gees stream across borders. Our secu- pay more on the debt than they can af- and start by supporting this refi- rity is affected when perpetrators of ford.’’ I agree with that, which is why nancing bill. extraordinary violence wreak havoc on Congress should allow students to For nearly 4 years, Republicans have regional stability, destroying commu- lower their monthly payments by refi- filibustered this bill and refused to nities, families, and livelihoods. We nancing to today’s lower interest rates. even debate it, despite its overwhelming public support. Meanwhile, have seen groups like ISIS systemati- Donald Trump also said that ‘‘student congressional Republicans have offered cally targeting communities because of loan debt should not be an albatross nothing—nothing—to seriously address their ethnicity or religious beliefs and around student’s necks for the rest of the problems of student loan bor- practices, and yet, we still lack a com- their lives.’’ rowers. Those problems keep getting prehensive framework to prevent and I agree with that too. The legislation worse. Today’s students are wrestling respond to genocide and other atrocity I am introducing today would lower with $1.4 trillion in student loan debt, crimes. So, let this bill act as our the outstanding balance for millions of and every year the student loan debt framework, and our call to action, so Americans, allowing them to get out from under their student loans faster. increases by nearly $100 billion. that when we use the phrase ‘‘never Interest rates are scheduled to jump Here is one more. Donald Trump said again,’’ we know that we are taking up again later this summer, meaning that it is ‘‘terrible that one of the only meaningful preventative action. the urgency for Congress to act and profit centers we have is student allow borrowers to access today’s rates By Ms. WARREN (for herself, Mr. loans.’’ He also said that ‘‘it is not fair is stronger than ever. The Bank on SCHUMER, Mrs. MURRAY, Ms. and that should not take place.’’ Students Emergency Loan Refinancing BALDWIN, Mr. BENNET, Mr. Unfortunately, right now, that is ex- Act would give millions of borrowers BLUMENTHAL, Mr. BOOKER, Mr. actly what is happening. According to across this country a chance to save BROWN, Mr. CARDIN, Mr. CASEY, a recent analysis of Congressional hundreds and in some cases thousands Ms. DUCKWORTH, Mr. DURBIN, Budget Office data by the Institute for of dollars a year. That is real money, Mr. FRANKEN, Mrs. GILLIBRAND, College Access and Success, after all money they can put toward paying Ms. HARRIS, Ms. HASSAN, Mr. the costs are accounted for, the Fed- down the balance on their debt, money HEINRICH, Ms. HEITKAMP, Ms. eral Government is now on track to they can use to save for a home, money HIRONO, Ms. KLOBUCHAR, Mr. make $81 billion off student loans over they can spend on buying a car, money LEAHY, Mr. MANCHIN, Mr. MAR- the next 10 years. they can put toward building a solid fu- KEY, Mr. MENENDEZ, Mr. That is obscene. The Federal Govern- ture. MERKLEY, Mr. MURPHY, Mr. ment should not be making a profit off By refusing to act and ignoring this PETERS, Mr. REED, Mr. SAND- the backs of our students, period. Yes, debt crisis, Republicans threaten to ERS, Mrs. SHAHEEN, Ms. STABE- Candidate Trump talked a lot about bury the hopes of an entire generation. NOW, Mr. UDALL, Mr. VAN HOL- this problem, but talk is cheap, and It is time for Congress to step up and LEN, Mr. WHITEHOUSE, Mr. President Trump has not done a thing fix this problem. It is also time for the WYDEN, Ms. CORTEZ MASTO, and to fix the problem. In fact, he seems to President to step up as well. Mrs. MCCASKILL): have lost all interest in students and President Trump, you campaigned on S. 1162. A bill to amend the Higher their student loans. Since his election the idea that the Federal Government Education Act of 1965 to provide for the in November, he has not even men- should not be making a profit off the refinancing of certain Federal student tioned his campaign promises about backs of hard-working students. So loans, and for other purposes; to the student loans. support this legislation. Put it in your Committee on Finance. Instead, he and Education Secretary annual budget, this proposal. Call on Ms. WARREN. Mr. President, I rise DeVos have gone in the opposite direc- Members of your own party who have today to announce the reintroduction tion, using their short time in office to held up this bill to get on board. De- of the Bank on Students Emergency deliver one blow after another to hard- mand action to refinance student loan Loan Refinancing Act of 2017. This leg- working Americans who are struggling debt, and keep the promises you made islation would allow student loan bor- with student debt. Back when he was to America’s young people. rowers to take advantage of lower in- running for President, Donald Trump Thank you, Mr. President. terest rates, and I urge both my Senate made a lot of promises, but empty colleagues and the Trump administra- promises don’t help the students who By Mr. CORNYN (for himself, Mr. tion to support it. In a few short have been punched in the gut by Sec- NELSON, Mr. HATCH, Mr. CRUZ, months, millions more college grad- retary DeVos’s decision to roll back and Mr. COTTON): uates will be hit with their first stu- critical consumer protections for bor- S. 1163. A bill to require the Sec- dent loan bills. rowers. retary of Veterans Affairs to ensure Already, more than 44 million Ameri- Hollow campaign pledges do not help compliance of medical facilities of the cans have student loans, and many are the students, the veterans, the mem- Department of Veterans Affairs with struggling to pay loans that are run- bers of our Armed Forces when they requirements relating to the sched- ning at interest rates of 6 percent, 8 are hurt by student loan companies, uling of appointments, to require ap- percent, 10 percent and even more. It is like Navient, that break the law and pointment by the President and con- time for real action to help struggling brazenly announce to the world that firmation by the Senate of certain

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Mr. President, I ask covered by the report— (1) a list of each medical facility of the De- S. 1164 unanimous consent that the text of the partment for which a certification was made Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- bill be printed in the RECORD. under subsection (a)(1); and resentatives of the United States of America in There being no objection, the text of (2) a list of each medical facility of the De- Congress assembled, the bill was ordered to be printed in partment for which such a certification was SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. not made, including a copy of each report the RECORD, as follows: This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Stop Online submitted to the Secretary under subsection S. 1163 Booking Scams Act of 2017’’. (b). Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- SEC. 3. UNIFORM APPLICATION OF DIRECTIVES SEC. 2. FINDINGS; SENSE OF CONGRESS. resentatives of the United States of America in AND POLICIES OF DEPARTMENT OF (a) FINDINGS.—Congress finds the fol- Congress assembled, VETERANS AFFAIRS. lowing: SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. (a) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Vet- (1) The Internet has become an important This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Veterans’ erans Affairs shall apply the directives and channel of commerce in the United States, Health Care Integrity Act of 2017’’. policies of the Department of Veterans Af- accounting for billions of dollars in retail SEC. 2. COMPLIANCE OF MEDICAL FACILITIES fairs to each office or facility of the Depart- sales every year. WITH REQUIREMENTS RELATING TO ment in a uniform manner. (2) Hotel reservation transactions can be SCHEDULING OF APPOINTMENTS (b) NOTIFICATION.—If the Secretary does easily made online and online commerce has FOR HOSPITAL CARE AND MEDICAL not uniformly apply the directives and poli- created a marketplace where consumers can SERVICES. cies of the Department pursuant to sub- shop for hotels, flights, car rentals, and (a) ANNUAL CERTIFICATION.— section (a), including by waiving such a di- other travel-related services and products (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary of Veterans rective or policy with respect to an office, fa- across thousands of brands on a single plat- Affairs shall ensure that the director of each cility, or element of the Department, the form. medical facility of the Department of Vet- Secretary shall notify the Committee on (3) Consumers should be able to clearly erans Affairs annually certifies to the Sec- Veterans’ Affairs of the Senate and the Com- identify the company with which they are retary that— mittee on Veterans’ Affairs of the House of transacting business online. (A) the medical facility is in full compli- Representatives of such nonuniform applica- (4) Actions by third-party sellers that mis- ance with all regulations and other provi- tion, including an explanation for the non- appropriate brand identity, trademark, or sions of law relating to scheduling appoint- uniform application. other marketing content are harmful to con- ments for veterans to receive hospital care SEC. 4. REQUIREMENT FOR APPOINTMENT AND sumers. or medical services, including Veterans CONFIRMATION OF CERTAIN OFFI- (5) Platforms offered by online travel agen- Health Administration Directive 1230 or any CIALS OF DEPARTMENT OF VET- cies provide consumers with a valuable tool successor directive; and ERANS AFFAIRS. for comparative shopping for hotels and (B) any official data on wait times for ap- (a) PRINCIPAL DEPUTY UNDER SECRETARY should not be mistaken for the unlawful pointments to receive hospital care or med- FOR HEALTH.—Subsection (c) of section 7306 of title 38, United States Code, is amended to third-party actors that commit such mis- ical services submitted by the director to the read as follows: appropriation. Secretary during the year preceding the sub- ‘‘(c)(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), (6) The misleading and deceptive sales tac- mittal of the certification is true and accu- appointments under subsection (a) shall be tics companies use against consumers book- rate to the best of the director’s knowledge. made by the Secretary. ing hotel rooms online have resulted in the (2) PROHIBITION ON WAIVER.—The Secretary ‘‘(2) Appointments under subsection (a)(1) loss of sensitive financial and personal infor- may not waive any regulation or other provi- shall be made by the President, by and with mation, financial harm, and other damages sion of law described in paragraph (1) for a the advice and consent of the Senate. for consumers. medical facility of the Department if such ‘‘(3) In the case of appointments under (b) SENSE OF CONGRESS.—It is the sense of regulation or other provision of law other- paragraphs (1), (2), (3), (4), and (8) of sub- Congress that— wise applies to the medical facility. section (a), such appointments shall be made (1) consumers benefit from the ability to (b) EXPLANATION OF NONCOMPLIANCE.—If a upon the recommendation of the Under Sec- director of a medical facility of the Depart- shop for travel-related services and products retary for Health.’’. on the innovative platforms offered by on- ment does not make a certification under (b) OTHER DEPUTY UNDER SECRETARY POSI- line travel agencies; subsection (a)(1) for any year, the director TIONS.— (2) sellers on the Internet should— shall submit to the Secretary a report con- (1) IN GENERAL.—Notwithstanding any (A) provide consumers with clear, accurate taining— other provision of law, the Deputy Under information; and (1) an explanation of why the director is Secretary for Health for Operations and (B) have an opportunity to compete fairly unable to make such certification; and Management of the Department of Veterans with one another; and (2) a description of the actions the director Affairs, the Deputy Under Secretary for (3) the Federal Trade Commission should is taking to ensure full compliance with the Health for Policy and Services of the Depart- revise the Commission’s Internet site to regulations and other provisions of law de- ment, the Principal Deputy Under Secretary make it easier for consumers and businesses scribed in such subsection. for Benefits of the Department, the Deputy to report complaints of deceptive practices (c) PROHIBITION ON BONUSES BASED ON NON- Under Secretary for Disability Assistance of with respect to online booking of hotel res- COMPLIANCE.— the Department, and the Deputy Under Sec- ervations. (1) IN GENERAL.—If a director of a medical retary for Field Operations of the Depart- facility of the Department does not make a ment shall be appointed by the President, by SEC. 3. DEFINITIONS. certification under subsection (a)(1) for any and with the advice and consent of the Sen- In this Act: year, no covered official described in para- ate. (1) AFFILIATION CONTRACT.—The term ‘‘af- graph (2) may receive an award or bonus (2) RULE OF CONSTRUCTION.—Nothing in this filiation contract’’ means, with respect to a under chapter 45 or 53 of title 5, United subsection shall be construed to authorize hotel, a contract with the owner of the hotel, States Code, or any other award or bonus au- the establishment of any new position within the entity that manages the hotel, or the thorized under such title or title 38, United the Department of Veterans Affairs. franchisor of the hotel to provide online States Code, during the year following the (c) APPLICATION.—Subsection (b) and the hotel reservation services for the hotel. year in which the certification was not amendment made by subsection (a) shall (2) COMMISSION.—The term ‘‘Commission’’ made. apply to appointments made on and after the means the Federal Trade Commission. (2) COVERED OFFICIAL DESCRIBED.—A cov- date of the enactment of this Act. (3) EXHIBITION ORGANIZER OR MEETING PLAN- ered official described in this paragraph is NER.—The term ‘‘exhibition organizer or each official who serves in the following po- By Mr. DAINES (for himself, Mr. meeting planner’’ means the person respon- sitions at a medical facility of the Depart- NELSON, Mrs. FISCHER, and Ms. sible for all aspects of planning, promoting, ment during a year, or portion thereof, for KLOBUCHAR): and producing a meeting, conference, event, which the director does not make a certifi- S. 1164. A bill to protect consumers or exhibition, including overseeing and ar- cation under subsection (a)(1): from deceptive practices with respect ranging all hotel reservation plans and con- (A) The director. to online booking of hotel reservations, tracts for the meeting, conference, event, or (B) The chief of staff. and for other purposes; to the Com- exhibition. (C) The associate director. (4) OFFICIAL HOUSING BUREAU.—The term (D) The associate director for patient care. mittee on Commerce, Science, and ‘‘official housing bureau’’ means the organi- (E) The deputy chief of staff. Transportation. zation designated by an exhibition organizer (d) ANNUAL REPORT.—Not less frequently Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, I ask or meeting planner to provide hotel reserva- than annually, the Secretary shall submit to unanimous consent that the text of the tion services for meetings, conferences, the Committee on Veterans’ Affairs of the bill be printed in the RECORD. events, or exhibitions.

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(5) PARTY DIRECTLY AFFILIATED.—The term State has been or is being threatened or ad- or continuing any proceeding in a court of ‘‘party directly affiliated’’ means, with re- versely affected by the engagement of any the State for a violation of any civil or spect to a hotel, a person who has entered person subject to subsection (a) in a practice criminal law of the State. into an affiliation contract with the hotel. that violates such subsection, the attorney Mr. DAINES. Mr. President, the trav- (6) THIRD-PARTY ONLINE HOTEL RESERVATION general of the State may, as parens patriae, el and tourism industry is a pillar of SELLER.—The term ‘‘third-party online hotel bring a civil action on behalf of the residents reservation seller’’ means any person that— of the State in an appropriate district court Montana’s economy. Our wealth of (A) sells any good or service with respect of the United States to obtain appropriate public lands, first-class fishing, hiking to a hotel in a transaction effected on the relief. and skiing, and our breathtaking nat- Internet; and (2) RIGHTS OF FEDERAL TRADE COMMISSION.— ural landscapes make Montana a spe- (B) is not— (A) NOTICE TO FEDERAL TRADE COMMIS- cial place for people to visit. Last year (i) a party directly affiliated with the SION.— alone, visitors to Montana spent $3.46 hotel; or (i) IN GENERAL.—Except as provided in billion in our state. And Montana is (ii) an exhibition organizer or meeting clause (iii), the attorney general of a State planner or the official housing bureau for a shall notify the Commission in writing that not alone. The travel and tourism in- meeting, conference, event, or exhibition the attorney general intends to bring a civil dustry plays a significant role in the held at the hotel. action under paragraph (1) before initiating United States economy as well, con- SEC. 4. REQUIREMENTS FOR THIRD-PARTY ON- any civil action against a person subject to tributing over $503 billion to the U.S. LINE HOTEL RESERVATION SELL- subsection (a). GDP just last year. ERS. (ii) CONTENTS.—The notification required With advancements in technology (a) IN GENERAL.—It shall be unlawful for a under clause (i) with respect to a civil action and the increased use of online market- third-party online hotel reservation seller to shall include a copy of the complaint to be charge or attempt to charge any consumer’s filed to initiate the civil action. places, travelers have the ability to do credit card, debit card, bank account, or (iii) EXCEPTION.—If it is not feasible for the more research, plan trips, and book other financial account for any good or serv- attorney general of a State to provide the reservations online. Online platforms ice sold in a transaction effected on the notification required by clause (i) before ini- allow customers to compare thousands Internet with respect to a hotel unless the tiating a civil action under paragraph (1), of brands in one place and as a result third-party online hotel reservation seller— the attorney general shall notify the Com- the number of hotel reservations made (1) clearly and conspicuously discloses to mission immediately upon instituting the the consumer all material terms of the online has surged over the past several civil action. years, many of which are on legitimate transaction, including— (B) INTERVENTION BY FEDERAL TRADE COM- (A) before the conclusion of the trans- MISSION.—The Commission may— third-party websites. However, as the action— (i) intervene in any civil action brought by ease and number of online bookings has (i) a description of the good or service the attorney general of a State under para- increased, so has the number of online being offered; and graph (1); and booking scams. (ii) the cost of such good or service; and (ii) upon intervening— Illegitimate reservation sellers pose (B) in a manner that is continuously visi- (I) be heard on all matters arising in the as hotel websites, leading consumers to ble to the consumer throughout the trans- civil action; and believe they are booking directly with action process, that the person— (II) file petitions for appeal of a decision in (i) is a third-party online hotel reservation the civil action. the hotel, when in fact they are book- seller; and (3) INVESTIGATORY POWERS.—Nothing in ing with an unrelated third party. (ii) is not— this subsection may be construed to prevent Transactions on these sites can result (I) affiliated with the owner of the hotel or the attorney general of a State from exer- in additional hidden fees, loss of ex- the entity that provides the hotel services or cising the powers conferred on the attorney pected loyalty points, or even con- accommodations; or general by the laws of the State— firmation of reservations that were (II) an exhibition organizer or meeting (A) to conduct investigations; never made. One study found that as planner or the official housing bureau for a (B) to administer oaths or affirmations; or meeting, conference, event, or exhibition (C) to compel the attendance of witnesses many as fifteen million bookings a held at the hotel; or or the production of documentary or other year are affected by fraudulent (2) includes prominent and continuous dis- evidence. websites. In Montana, you expect to closure of the brand identity of the third- (4) STATE COORDINATION WITH FEDERAL get what you pay for. When you book a party online hotel reservation seller TRADE COMMISSION.—If the Commission insti- hotel online only to find out you are throughout the transaction process, whether tutes a civil action or an administrative ac- not on the list when you arrive, you online or over the phone. tion with respect to a violation of subsection not only lose your money, but you lose (b) ENFORCEMENT BY COMMISSION.— (a), the attorney general of a State shall co- the positive experience tourism (1) UNFAIR OR DECEPTIVE ACTS OR PRAC- ordinate with the Commission before bring- TICES.—A violation of subsection (a) by a ing a civil action under paragraph (1) against awards. person subject to such subsection shall be any defendant named in the complaint of the That is why I am proud to introduce treated as a violation of a rule defining an Commission for the violation with respect to the Stop Online Booking Scams Act of unfair or deceptive act or practice prescribed which the Commission instituted such ac- 2017 along with my colleagues Senators under section 18(a)(1)(B) of the Federal Trade tion. NELSON, FISCHER, and KLOBUCHAR. This Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 57a(a)(1)(B)). (5) VENUE; SERVICE OF PROCESS.— bill requires third-party sites to dis- (2) POWERS OF COMMISSION.— (A) VENUE.—Any action brought under close that they are not affiliated with paragraph (1) may be brought in— (A) IN GENERAL.—The Commission shall en- the hotel, providing clarity and trans- force this section in the same manner, by the (i) the district court of the United States same means, and with the same jurisdiction, that meets applicable requirements relating parency to consumers booking online. powers, and duties as though all applicable to venue under section 1391 of title 28, United It also empowers State attorneys gen- terms and provisions of the Federal Trade States Code; or eral to pursue cases on behalf of con- Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.) were (ii) another court of competent jurisdic- sumers who have been scammed. Pro- incorporated into and made a part of this tion. viding clear disclosures that reveal the Act. (B) SERVICE OF PROCESS.—In an action true identity of websites will give con- (B) PRIVILEGES AND IMMUNITIES.—Any per- brought under paragraph (1), process may be fidence to the millions of consumers served in any district in which the defend- son who violates this section shall be subject who make reservations online every to the penalties and entitled to the privi- ant— leges and immunities provided in the Federal (i) is an inhabitant; or year. I ask my colleagues who have not Trade Commission Act (15 U.S.C. 41 et seq.). (ii) may be found. yet done so to join me in cosponsoring (C) RULEMAKING.— (6) ACTIONS BY OTHER STATE OFFICIALS.— this much-needed legislation. Thank (i) IN GENERAL.—The Commission may pro- (A) IN GENERAL.—In addition to civil ac- you, Mr. President. mulgate such rules as the Commission con- tions brought by attorneys general under siders appropriate to enforce this section. paragraph (1), any other officer of a State By Mr. DURBIN (for himself, Mr. (ii) PROCEDURES.—The Commission shall who is authorized by the State to do so may PORTMAN, Mr. BROWN, Mrs. CAP- carry out any rulemaking under clause (i) in bring a civil action under paragraph (1), sub- ITO, Mr. KING, Ms. COLLINS, Mr. accordance with section 553 of title 5, United ject to the same requirements and limita- MANCHIN, and Mr. BOOKER): States Code. tions that apply under this subsection to (c) ENFORCEMENT BY STATES.— civil actions brought by attorneys general. S. 1169. A bill to amend title XIX of (1) IN GENERAL.—In any case in which the (B) SAVINGS PROVISION.—Nothing in this the Social Security Act to provide attorney general of a State has reason to be- subsection may be construed to prohibit an States with an option to provide med- lieve that an interest of the residents of the authorized official of a State from initiating ical assistance to individuals between

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00045 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.024 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S3018 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 the ages of 22 and 64 for inpatient serv- services to an individual shall not prohibit ment facilities that are located in rural ices to treat substance use disorders at Federal financial participation for medical areas or that target the provision of addic- certain facilities, and for other pur- assistance for items or services that are pro- tion treatment services to Medicaid or CHIP poses; to the Committee on Finance. vided to the individual in or away from the beneficiaries who have not attained the age Mr. DURBIN. Mr. President, I ask residential addiction treatment facility dur- of 21 and reside in rural areas. ing any 30-day period in which the individual (d) DEFINITIONS.—For purposes of this sec- unanimous consent that the text of the is receiving residential addiction treatment tion: bill be printed in the RECORD. facility services. (1) ADDICTION TREATMENT SERVICES.—The There being no objection, the text of ‘‘(D) A woman who is eligible for medical term ‘‘addiction treatment services’’ means the bill was ordered to be printed in assistance on the basis of being pregnant and services provided to an individual for the the RECORD, as follows: who is furnished residential addiction treat- purpose of treating a substance use disorder. S. 1169 ment facility services during any 30-day pe- (2) CHIP.—The term ‘‘CHIP’’ means the Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Rep- riod may remain eligible for, and continue to State children’s health insurance program resentatives of the United States of America in be furnished with, such services for addi- established under title XXI of the Social Se- Congress assembled, tional 30-day periods without regard to any curity Act (42 U.S.C. 1397aa et seq.). SECTION 1. SHORT TITLE. eligibility limit that would otherwise apply (3) ELIGIBLE YOUTH ADDICTION TREATMENT This Act may be cited as the ‘‘Medicaid to the woman as a result of her pregnancy FACILITY.—The term ‘‘eligible youth addic- Coverage for Addiction Recovery Expansion ending, subject to assessment by the facility tion treatment facility’’ means a facility Act’’. and a determination based on medical neces- that is a participating provider under the SEC. 2. STATE OPTION TO PROVIDE MEDICAL AS- sity related to substance use disorder and State Medicaid or CHIP programs for pur- SISTANCE FOR RESIDENTIAL ADDIC- the impact of substance use disorder on birth poses of providing medical assistance or TION TREATMENT FACILITY SERV- outcomes.’’. child health assistance to Medicaid or CHIP ICES; MODIFICATION OF THE IMD (b) EFFECTIVE DATE.—The amendments beneficiaries for youth addiction treatment EXCLUSION. made by this section shall apply to items services on an inpatient or outpatient basis (a) IN GENERAL.—Section 1905 of the Social and services furnished on or after January 1, (or both). Security Act (42 U.S.C. 1396d) is amended— 2019. (4) MEDICAID.—The term ‘‘Medicaid’’ means (1) in subsection (a)(16)— SEC. 3. GRANT PROGRAM TO EXPAND YOUTH AD- the medical assistance program established (A) by striking ‘‘and, (B)’’ and inserting ‘‘, DICTION TREATMENT FACILITIES under title XIX of the Social Security Act (B)’’; and UNDER MEDICAID AND CHIP. (42 U.S.C. 1396 et seq.). (B) by inserting ‘‘, and (C) effective Janu- (a) ESTABLISHMENT.— (5) MEDICAID OR CHIP BENEFICIARY.—The ary 1, 2019, residential addiction treatment (1) IN GENERAL.—The Secretary shall estab- term ‘‘Medicaid or CHIP beneficiary’’ means facility services (as defined in subsection lish a program under which the Secretary an individual who is enrolled in the State (h)(3)) for individuals over 21 years of age and shall award grants to States for the purpose Medicaid plan, the State child health plan under 65 years of age, if offered as part of a of expanding the infrastructure and treat- under CHIP, or under a waiver of either such full continuum of evidence-based treatment ment capabilities, including augmenting plan. services provided under the State plan, in- equipment and bed capacity, of eligible (6) MEDICALLY UNDERSERVED POPU- cluding residential, outpatient, and commu- youth addiction treatment facilities that LATIONS.—The term ‘‘medically underserved nity-based care, for individuals with sub- provide addiction treatment services to Med- populations’’ has the meaning given that stance use disorders’’ before the semicolon; icaid or CHIP beneficiaries who have not at- and term in section 330(b)(3) of the Public Health tained the age of 21 and are in communities Service Act (42 U.S.C. 254b(b)(3)). (2) in subsection (h)— with high numbers of medically underserved (7) SECRETARY.—The term ‘‘Secretary’’ (A) in paragraph (1), by striking ‘‘para- populations of at-risk youth. graph (16) of subsection (a)’’ and inserting means the Secretary of Health and Human (2) USE OF FUNDS.—Grant funds awarded Services. ‘‘subsection (a)(16)(A)’’; and under this section may be used to expand the (B) by adding at the end the following new (e) AUTHORIZATION OF APPROPRIATIONS.— infrastructure and treatment capabilities of There are authorized to be appropriated paragraph: an existing facility (including through con- ‘‘(3)(A) For purposes of subsection $50,000,000 to carry out the provisions of this struction) but shall not be used for the con- section. Funds appropriated under this sub- (a)(16)(C), the term ‘residential addiction struction of any new facility or for the provi- treatment facility services’ means, subject section shall remain available until ex- sion of medical assistance or child health as- pended. to subparagraph (B), inpatient services pro- sistance under Medicaid or CHIP. vided— (3) TIMETABLE FOR IMPLEMENTATION; DURA- f ‘‘(i) to an individual for the purpose of TION.— treating a substance use disorder that are (A) IMPLEMENTATION.—Not later than 1 SUBMITTED RESOLUTIONS furnished to an individual for not more than year after the date of the enactment of this 2 consecutive periods of 30 consecutive days, Act, the Secretary shall award grants under provided that upon completion of the first the grant program. 30-day period, the individual is assessed and SENATE RESOLUTION 167—RELAT- (B) DURATION.—The Secretary shall award determined to have progressed through the grants under the grant program for a period ING TO THE RECOGNITION OF clinical continuum of care, in accordance not to exceed 5 years. JERUSALEM AS THE CAPITAL OF with criteria established by the Secretary, in (b) APPLICATION.—A State seeking to par- ISRAEL AND THE RELOCATION consultation with the American Society of ticipate in the grant program shall submit to OF THE UNITED STATES EM- Addiction Medicine, and requires continued the Secretary, at such time and in such man- BASSY TO JERUSALEM medically necessary treatment and social ner as the Secretary shall require, an appli- support services to promote recovery, stable cation that includes— Mr. HELLER (for himself, Mr. GRA- transition to ongoing treatment, and dis- (1) detailed information on the types of ad- HAM, Mr. RUBIO, and Mr. CRUZ) sub- charge; and ditional infrastructure and treatment capac- mitted the following resolution; which ‘‘(ii) in a facility that is accredited for the ity of eligible youth addiction treatment fa- was referred to the Committee on For- treatment of substance use disorders by the cilities that the State proposes to fund under eign Relations: Joint Commission on Accreditation of the grant program; Healthcare Organizations, the Commission (2) a description of the communities in S. RES. 167 on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facili- which the eligible youth addiction treatment Whereas each sovereign nation, under ties, the Council on Accreditation, or any facilities funded under the grant program op- international law and custom, may designate other accrediting agency that the Secretary erate; its own capital; deems appropriate as necessary to ensure na- (3) an assurance that the eligible youth ad- Whereas, since 1950, the city of Jerusalem tionwide applicability, including qualified diction treatment facilities that the State has been the capital of the State of Israel; national organizations and State-level ac- proposes to fund under the grant program Whereas the city of Jerusalem is the seat crediting agencies. shall give priority to providing addiction of Israel’s President, Parliament, Supreme ‘‘(B) The State agency responsible for ad- treatment services to Medicaid or CHIP Court, and the site of numerous government ministering the State plan under this title beneficiaries who have not attained the age ministries and social and cultural institu- shall establish procedures to ensure that, of 21 and are in communities with high num- tions; with respect to any facility providing resi- bers of medically underserved populations of Whereas the city of Jerusalem is the spir- dential addiction treatment facility services at-risk youth; and itual center of Judaism and is also consid- in a fiscal year, the average monthly number (4) such additional information and assur- ered a holy city by members of other reli- of beds used by the facility to provide such ances as the Secretary shall require. gious faiths; services during such year is not more than (c) RURAL AREAS.—Not less than 15 percent Whereas Jerusalem must remain an undi- 40. of the amount of a grant awarded to a State vided city in which the rights of every ethnic ‘‘(C) The provision of medical assistance under this section shall be used for making and religious group are protected as they for residential addiction treatment facility payments to eligible youth addiction treat- have been by Israel since 1967;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00046 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.031 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3019 Whereas, this year, we commemorate the dom, silence independent journalists, and but the Government of Ethiopia has failed to 50th anniversary of the reunification of Jeru- persecute members of the political opposi- take concrete actions to follow through with salem and reaffirm the congressional senti- tion; this commitment: Now, therefore be it ment that Jerusalem must remain an undi- Whereas laws such as the 2009 Charities Resolved, That the Senate— vided city; and Societies Proclamation have been used (1) condemns— Whereas every citizen of Israel should have to restrict the operation of civil society and (A) killings of peaceful protesters and ex- the right to reside anywhere in the undivided nongovernmental organizations in Ethiopia cessive use of force by Ethiopian security city of Jerusalem; across a range of purposes, particularly forces; Whereas the President and the Secretary those investigating alleged violations of (B) arrest and detention of journalists, stu- of State should publicly affirm as a matter human rights by governmental authorities; dents, activists and political leaders who ex- of United States policy that Jerusalem must Whereas the case of the ‘‘Zone 9 Bloggers’’, ercise their constitutional rights to freedom remain the undivided capital of the State of whose arrest and detention in 2014 and subse- of assembly and expression through peaceful Israel; quent trials on terrorism charges brought protests; and Whereas the President should immediately international attention to the restrictions (C) abuse of the Anti-Terrorism Proclama- implement the provisions of the Jerusalem on press freedom in Ethiopia, is indicative of tion to stifle political and civil dissent and Embassy Act of 1995 (Public Law 104–45) and the coercive environment in which journal- journalistic freedoms; begin the process of relocating the United ists continue to operate; (2) urges protesters in Ethiopia to refrain States Embassy in Israel to Jerusalem; Whereas the arrest, detention, and de- from violence, and to refrain from encour- Whereas United States officials should re- meaning treatment of hundreds of dissidents, aging or accepting any and all violence in frain from any actions that contradict including leaders of legally registered oppo- demonstrations; United States law on this subject; and sition parties such as Bekele Gerba, arrested (3) calls on the Government of Ethiopia Whereas any official document of the in December 2015, and Merera Gudina, ar- to— United States Government which lists coun- rested in November 2016, of the Oromo Fed- (A) fully lift the state of emergency; tries and their capital cities should identify eralist Congress, Yonatan Tesfaye Regassa, (B) end the practice of excessive force by Jerusalem as the capital of Israel: Now, arrested in December 2015, of the Semayawi security forces; therefore, be it Party (the Blue Party), and the arrest and (C) grant the United Nations High Commis- Resolved, That it is the sense of the Senate sentencing of Okello Akway Ochalla, former sioner for Human Rights and United Nations that— governor of the Gambella region, are indic- Special Rapporteurs full access to conduct a (1) it should be the policy of the United ative of repressive political conditions that comprehensive independent examination of States to recognize Jerusalem as the undi- prevail in the country; the state of human rights in Ethiopia; vided capital of the State of Israel both de Whereas the Ethiopian Human Rights (D) conduct a full, credible, and trans- jure and de facto; and Council reported last year at least 102 parent investigation into the killings and instances of excessive use of force that took (2) the United States Embassy should be protestor deaths from November 2015 to Feb- place as a result of protests in the Oromia relocated to Jerusalem. ruary 2016 across 9 administrative zones, Human Rights Watch reports that Ethiopian and Amhara regions and hold security forces f security forces have killed at least 500 peace- accountable for wrongdoing through public SENATE RESOLUTION 168—SUP- ful protestors, and Amnesty International proceedings, and to publicly release the find- PORTING RESPECT FOR HUMAN reported that more than 800 protesters have ings through a written report; been killed since November 2015 and that (E) release all dissidents, members of the RIGHTS AND ENCOURAGING IN- number is likely higher; political opposition, activists, and journal- CLUSIVE GOVERNANCE IN ETHI- Whereas, on October 9, 2016, the Govern- ists who have been jailed, including those ar- OPIA ment of Ethiopia imposed a far-reaching, six- rested for reporting about the protests, for Mr. CARDIN (for himself, Mr. RUBIO, month State of Emergency that restricted a exercising constitutional rights; broad range of actions, including blocking (F) respect the right to freedom of peaceful Mr. TILLIS, Mr. WYDEN, Mr. DURBIN, mobile Internet access and social media assembly and guarantee freedom of the press Mr. CORNYN, Ms. STABENOW, Mr. COONS, communications, undermining freedoms of and mass media in keeping with Articles 30 Mr. GARDNER, Mr. BOOKER, Mr. BROWN, association, expression, and peaceful assem- and 29 of the Ethiopian constitution; Mr. FRANKEN, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Mr. bly, which led to the arrest of over 26,000 per- (G) engage in open and transparent con- MERKLEY, and Mr. WARNER) submitted sons, and which was extended by four months sultations relative to its development strat- the following resolution; which was re- on March 30, 2017; egy, especially those strategies that could ferred to the Committee on Foreign Whereas, on October 10, 2016, the United result in people’s displacement from land, of- Relations: Nations Special Rapporteur on freedom of fering those displaced from their land the peaceful assembly and of association and the right to seek remedy or redress in courts and S. RES. 168 United Nations Working Group on enforced providing a transparent means to access jus- Whereas the first pillar of the 2012 United or involuntary disappearances and on tice for those displaced; and States Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary execu- (H) repeal proclamations that— is to strengthen democratic institutions, and tions publicly called on the Government of (i) can be used as a political tool to harass the United States Agency for International Ethiopia to allow an international commis- individuals or organizations that engage in Development Democracy, Human Rights, sion of inquiry to investigate the protests peaceful political dissent or advocate for and Governance Strategy states that strong and the violence used against peaceful dem- greater political freedoms; or democratic institutions, respect for human onstrators; (ii) prohibit or otherwise limit funding for rights, and participatory, accountable gov- Whereas former detainees report torture, civil society organizations working on, sup- ernance are crucial elements for improving lack of rations, and other forms of serious porting, or advocating for respect for con- people’s lives in a sustainable way; abuse in detention facilities; stitutional rights, the rule of law, and pro- Whereas the third pillar of the 2012 United Whereas state-sponsored violence against tection of human rights; States Strategy Toward Sub-Saharan Africa citizens exercising their rights to peaceful (4) calls on the Secretary of State to share is to advance peace and security, including assembly in Oromia and elsewhere in the with Congress the results of a review of secu- supporting security sector reform; country, and the abuse of laws to stifle jour- rity assistance to Ethiopia in light of these Whereas democratic space in Ethiopia has nalistic and political freedoms, stand in di- developments and to improve transparency steadily diminished since the general elec- rect contrast to democratic principles and in with respect to the purposes of such assist- tions of 2005; violation of Ethiopia’s constitution; ance to the people of Ethiopia; Whereas elections were held in 2015 in Whereas serious abuses have been and con- (5) calls on the Administrator of the which the ruling Ethiopian People’s Revolu- tinue to be committed in the Somali re- United States Agency for International De- tionary Democratic Front and its affiliates gional state by Ethiopian federal and re- velopment to immediately lead efforts to de- claimed 100 percent of parliamentary seats; gional security forces, some of which may velop a comprehensive strategy to support Whereas the 2016 Department of State constitute war crimes and crimes against hu- improved democracy and governance in Ethi- Human Rights Report on Ethiopia cited seri- manity; opia; ous human rights violations, including arbi- Whereas to date, the Government of Ethi- (6) calls on the Secretary of State, in contrary arrests, killings, rape, and torture opia has held no one accountable for any of junction with the Administrator of the committed by security forces as well as in- the aforementioned abuses; and United States Agency for International De- creased restrictions on freedom of expression Whereas, during President Barack Obama’s velopment, to improve oversight and ac- and freedom of association, politically moti- historic visit to Addis Ababa in July 2015, countability of United States assistance to vated trials, harassment, intimidation, and Prime Minister Hailemariam Desalegn ex- Ethiopia pursuant to expectations estab- arrest of opposition members and journal- pressed his government’s commitment to lished in the President’s 2012 Strategy To- ists; deepen the democratic process and work toward Sub-Saharan Africa; Whereas the Government of Ethiopia has wards the respect of human rights and im- (7) calls on the President to apply appro- repeatedly abused laws such as the 2009 Anti- proving governance, and noted the need to priate sanctions on foreign persons or enti- Terrorism Proclamation to limit press free- step up efforts to strengthen institutions, ties responsible for extrajudicial killings,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00047 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.025 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE S3020 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE May 17, 2017 torture, or other gross violations of inter- Mr. NELSON, Mr. PETERS, Mr. REED, SENATE RESOLUTION 171—SUP- nationally recognized human rights com- Mrs. SHAHEEN, Mr. VAN HOLLEN, Ms. PORTING THE GOALS AND mitted against any nationals in Ethiopia as WARREN, and Mrs. GILLIBRAND) sub- IDEALS OF NATIONAL TRAVEL provided for in the Global Magnitsky Human AND TOURISM WEEK AND HON- Rights Accountability Act (subtitle F of mitted the following resolution; which title XII of Public Law 114–328); and was considered and agreed to: ORING THE VALUABLE CON- (8) stands by the people of Ethiopia, and TRIBUTIONS OF TRAVEL AND supports their peaceful efforts to increase S. RES. 170 TOURISM TO THE UNITED democratic space and to exercise the rights Whereas the national network of labora- STATES guaranteed by the Ethiopian constitution. tories and engineering centers that are Ms. KLOBUCHAR (for herself, Mr. owned and operated by the United States BLUNT, Mr. SCHATZ, and Mr. HELLER) SENATE RESOLUTION 169—CON- Armed Forces (referred to in this preamble submitted the following resolution; GRATULATING FERMI NATIONAL as the ‘‘defense laboratories’’) should be commended for the unique role that the de- which was considered and agreed to: ACCELERATOR LABORATORY ON fense laboratories have played in countless S. RES. 171 50 YEARS OF GROUNDBREAKING innovations and advances in the areas of de- Whereas National Travel and Tourism DISCOVERIES fense and national security; Week was established in 1983 through the en- Ms. DUCKWORTH (for herself and Whereas technological progress is respon- actment of the Joint Resolution entitled Mr. DURBIN) submitted the following sible for up to 50 percent of the growth of the ‘‘Joint Resolution to designate the week be- resolution; which was referred to the United States economy and is the principal ginning May 27, 1984, as ‘National Tourism driving force behind long-term economic Week’ ’’, approved November 29, 1983 (Public Committee on Energy and Natural Re- growth and increases in the standard of liv- Law 98–178; 97 Stat. 1126), which recognized sources: ing in the United States; the value of travel and tourism; S. RES. 169 Whereas research and development sup- Whereas National Travel and Tourism Whereas, in 2017, Fermi National Accel- ported by the Department of Defense has led Week is celebrated across the United States erator Laboratory (referred to in this pre- to new products and processes for state-of- from May 7 through May 13, 2017; amble as ‘‘Fermilab’’) celebrates the 50th an- the-art Armed Forces weapons and tech- Whereas more than 400 celebrations niversary of the date on which the first em- nology; throughout the United States are scheduled ployees of Fermilab started work in Illinois, Whereas defense laboratories frequently in honor of National Travel and Tourism June 15, 1967; partner with State and local governments Week; Whereas Femilab drives scientific dis- and regional organizations to transfer tech- Whereas 1 out of every 9 jobs in the United covery by building and operating world-lead- nology to the private sector; States depends on travel and tourism and ing particle accelerator and detector facili- Whereas defense laboratories have earned the travel and tourism industry supports ties, performing pioneering research with na- prestigious national and international 15,300,000 jobs in the United States; tional and global partners, and developing awards for research and technology transfer Whereas the travel and tourism industry new technologies for science that support efforts and lead the way in cutting-edge employs individuals in all 50 States, the Dis- the industrial competitiveness of the United science and technology; trict of Columbia, and all the territories of States; Whereas the innovations that are produced the United States; Whereas Fermilab provides research facili- at defense laboratories fuel economic growth Whereas international travel to the United ties for 4,500 scientists from 50 countries; by creating new industries, companies, and States— Whereas research at Fermilab led to the jobs; (1) is the single largest export industry in discovery of the 3 building blocks of the uni- the United States; and Whereas, since the global leadership and (2) generates a trade surplus balance of ap- verse, the bottom quark in 1977, the top national security of the United States is de- proximately $87,000,000,000; quark in 1995, and the tau neutrino in 2000; pendent on innovation and new industries, Whereas the travel and tourism industry, Whereas superconducting magnets devel- the work of the national network of defense Congress, and the President have worked to oped at Fermilab led to the advancement of laboratories is essential to the continued streamline the visa process and make the magnetic resonance imaging medical prosperity of the United States; and United States welcoming to visitors from diagnostics; Whereas May 18, 2017, is an appropriate day other countries; Whereas Fermilab contributed critical to designate as ‘‘Department of Defense Lab- Whereas travel and tourism provide sig- components, computing capabilities, and sci- oratory Day’’: Now, therefore, be it nificant economic benefits to the United entific expertise to the 2012 discovery of the States by generating nearly $2,300,000,000,000 Higgs boson in Geneva, Switzerland; Resolved, That the Senate— in annual economic output; Whereas Fermilab continues to lead sci- (1) supports the designation of the ‘‘De- Whereas leisure travel allows individuals entific discoveries, including planning con- partment of Defense Laboratory Day’’ in to experience the rich cultural heritage and struction for the Long-Baseline Neutrino Fa- celebration of all of the work and accom- educational opportunities of the United cility to power the Deep Underground Neu- plishments of the national network of lab- States and its communities; and trino Experiment; and oratories and engineering centers that are Whereas the immense value of travel and Whereas Fermilab demonstrates its strong owned and operated by the United States tourism cannot be overstated: Now, there- commitment to developing a diverse work- Armed Forces (referred to in this resolution as the ‘‘defense laboratories’’); fore, be it force for the future in the fields of science, Resolved, That the Senate— technology, engineering, and mathematics (2) recognizes that a key to maintaining United States Armed Forces superiority, in- (1) supports the goals and ideals of Na- through educational programs that bring tional Travel and Tourism Week; more than 15,000 K–12 students to visit novation, and competitiveness in a global economy is to continue to support federally (2) commends the travel and tourism in- Fermilab each year: Now, therefore, be it dustry for its important contributions to the Resolved, That the Senate— sponsored research and development; United States; and (1) congratulates the Fermi National Ac- (3) acknowledges that the knowledge base, (3) commends the employees of the travel celerator Laboratory on the semicentennial technologies, and techniques generated in and tourism industry for their important of the Laboratory; and the national network of defense laboratories contributions to the United States. (2) wishes the Laboratory success in con- serve as a foundation for additional efforts tinuing to help the people of the United relating to the Armed Forces in the defense f States understand the mysteries of matter, industrial base; AUTHORITY FOR COMMITTEES TO energy, space, and time. (4) commits to find ways to increase in- MEET vestment in the national network of defense Mr. KENNEDY. Mr. President, I have SENATE RESOLUTION 170—EX- laboratories in order to increase support of federally sponsored research and develop- 10 requests for committees to meet PRESSING THE SENSE OF THE ment critical to the national security inter- during today’s session of the Senate. SENATE THAT DEFENSE LAB- ests of the United States; They have the approval of the Majority ORATORIES ARE ON THE CUT- (5) encourages defense laboratories, Fed- and Minority leaders. TING-EDGE OF SCIENTIFIC AND eral agencies, and Congress to hold an out- Pursuant to rule XXVI, paragraph TECHNOLOGICAL ADVANCEMENT, reach event on May 18, 2017, ‘‘Department of 5(a), of the Standing Rules of the Sen- AND SUPPORTING THE DESIGNA- Defense Laboratory Day’’, to make the pub- ate, the following committees are au- TION OF MAY 18, 2017, AS ‘‘DE- lic more aware of the work of the national thorized to meet during today’s session network of defense laboratories; and PARTMENT OF DEFENSE LAB- of the Senate: ORATORY DAY’’ (6) recognizes the outstanding dedication, qualifications, service, and accomplishments COMMITTEE ON AGING Mr. DONNELLY (for himself, Mr. of the scientists, technicians, and support The Special Committee on Aging is PORTMAN, Mr. BROWN, Mr. HEINRICH, staff of the defense laboratories. authorized to meet during the session

VerDate Sep 11 2014 02:43 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00048 Fmt 0624 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY6.026 S17MYPT1 SSpencer on DSK7TPTVN1PROD with SENATE May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — SENATE S3021 of the Senate on Wednesday, May 17, SUBCOMMITTEE ON STRATEGIC FORCES A resolution (S. Res. 171) supporting the 2017, to conduct a hearing entitled The Subcommittee on Strategic goals and ideals of National Travel and Tour- ‘‘Aging With Community: Building Forces of the Committee on Armed ism Week and honoring the valuable con- Connections that Last a Lifetime.’’ Services is authorized to meet during tributions of travel and tourism to the United States. COMMITTEE ON COMMERCE, SCIENCE, AND the session of the Senate on Wednes- TRANSPORTATION day, May 17, 2017, at 2 p.m., in open ses- There being no objection, the Senate The Committee on Commerce, sion, to receive testimony on Military proceeded to consider the resolution. Science, and Transportation is author- Space Organization, Policy, and Pro- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I further ized to hold a meeting during the ses- grams. ask unanimous consent that the resolution be agreed to, the preamble be sion of the Senate on Wednesday, May f agreed to, and the motions to recon- 17, 2017, at 10 a.m. in Room 253 of the SUPPORTING THE DESIGNATION Russell Senate Office Building. sider be considered made and laid upon OF MAY 18, 2017, AS ‘‘DEPART- the table with no intervening action or COMMITTEE ON ENVIRONMENT AND PUBLIC MENT OF DEFENSE LABORA- debate. WORKS TORY DAY’’ The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The Committee on Environment and objection, it is so ordered. Public Works is authorized to meet Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask The resolution (S. Res. 171) was during the session of the Senate on unanimous consent that the Senate agreed to. Wednesday, May 17, 2017, at 10 a.m. in proceed to the consideration of S. Res. The preamble was agreed to. Room 406 of the Dirksen Senate Office 170, submitted earlier today. (The resolution, with its preamble, is Building, to conduct a hearing entitled The PRESIDING OFFICER. The printed in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- ‘‘Improving America’s Transportation clerk will report the resolution by mitted Resolutions.’’) Infrastructure: The Road Forward.’’ title. The bill clerk read as follows: COMMITTEE ON FOREIGN RELATIONS f A resolution (S. Res. 170) expressing the The Committee on Foreign Relations sense of the Senate that defense laboratories ORDERS FOR THURSDAY, MAY 18, is authorized to meet during the ses- are on the cutting-edge of scientific and 2017 sion of the Senate on Wednesday, May technological advancement, and supporting Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask 17, 2017, at 2 p.m., to hold a hearing en- the designation of May 18, 2017, as ‘‘Depart- unanimous consent that when the Sen- titled ‘‘Nominations.’’ ment of Defense Laboratory Day.’’ ate completes its business today, it ad- COMMITTEE ON HOMELAND SECURITY There being no objection, the Senate journ until 10 a.m., Thursday, May 18; The Committee on Homeland Secu- proceeded to consider the resolution. further, that following the prayer and rity and Governmental Affairs is au- Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I know pledge, the morning hour be deemed thorized to meet during the session of of no further debate on the measure. expired, the Journal of proceedings be The PRESIDING OFFICER. Is there the Senate on Wednesday, May 17, 2017, approved to date, the time for the two further debate? at 10 a.m. for a business meeting. leaders be reserved for their use later If not, the question is on agreeing to COMMITTEE ON INDIAN AFFAIRS in the day, and morning business be the resolution. The Committee on Indian Affairs is closed; further, that following leader The resolution (S. Res. 170) was authorized to meet during the session remarks, the Senate proceed to execu- agreed to. of the Senate on Wednesday, May 17, tive session to resume consideration of Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask 2017, in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate the Brand nomination, with the time unanimous consent that the preamble Office Building, at 2:30 p.m., to conduct until 12 noon equally divided in the be agreed to and the motions to recon- a business meeting. usual form; further, that notwith- sider be considered made and laid upon The Committee on Indian Affairs is standing the provisions of rule XXII, the table with no intervening action or authorized to meet during the session the postcloture time on the Brand debate. of the Senate on Wednesday, May 17, nomination expire at 12 noon tomor- The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without 2017, in Room 628 of the Dirksen Senate row; finally, if confirmed, the motion objection, it is so ordered. Office Building, at 2:30 p.m., to conduct to reconsider be considered made and The preamble was agreed to. an oversight hearing on ‘‘High Risk, No laid upon the table, and the President (The resolution, with its preamble, is Reward: GAO’s High Risk List for In- be immediately notified of the Senate’s printed in today’s RECORD under ‘‘Sub- dian Programs.’’ action. mitted Resolutions.’’) COMMITTEE ON VETERANS’ AFFAIRS The PRESIDING OFFICER. Without The Committee on Veterans’ Affairs f objection, it is so ordered. is authorized to meet during the ses- SUPPORTING THE GOALS AND f sion of the Senate on Wednesday, May IDEALS OF NATIONAL TRAVEL 17, 2017, at 2:30 p.m. in SR–418, to con- AND TOURISM WEEK ADJOURNMENT UNTIL 10 A.M. duct a hearing on pending legislation. Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, I ask TOMORROW SUBCOMMITTEE ON AIRLAND unanimous consent that the Senate Mr. MORAN. Mr. President, if there The Subcommittee on Airland of the proceed to the immediate consider- is no further business to come before Committee on Armed Services is au- ation of S. Res. 171, submitted earlier the Senate, I ask unanimous consent thorized to meet during the session of today. that it stand adjourned under the pre- the Senate on Wednesday, May 17, 2017, The PRESIDING OFFICER. The vious order. at 3:30 p.m., in open session, to receive clerk will report the resolution by There being no objection, the Senate, testimony on United States Military title. at 5:56 p.m., adjourned until Thursday, Small Arms Requirements. The bill clerk read as follows: May 18, 2017, at 10 a.m.

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PERSONAL EXPLANATION grandchildren, Corrie Minor, Cameron Minor, Oceana Virginia before tragically losing a bat- Jaxen Stalnaker and Brent Stalnaker and tle with cancer. His 3rd son is an automobile HON. GRACE F. NAPOLITANO many nieces and nephews. mechanic who has owned and operated a OF CALIFORNIA Greg graduated from Rappahannock High successful auto repair business in Annapolis School in 1970 and from Smithdeal Business for the past 20 years. His fourth child, his IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES College in Richmond. He served the Virginia daughter, has been a successful school teach- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Army National Guard for six years. Greg es- er, principal and executive school adminis- Mrs. NAPOLITANO. Mr. Speaker, on roll tablished Little River Seafood in 1983 as an trator. She has recently pursued her entrepre- call vote No. 258, I would have voted Yea on oyster and crab picking facility. With a strong neurial interests and founded a small business the motion to suspend the rules and pass, as entrepreneurial spirit, Greg grew the oper- as a nutrition specialist and coach. Finally, his amended, H.R. 1616, Strengthening State and ations into an importer and distributer of his youngest son is a successful executive and Local Cyber Crime Fighting Act of 2017. crabmeat and products and, eventually, in- partner in a financial services company. f cluded value-added products as well. Greg His legacy has extended to his grand- proudly served on the Richmond County children, of which he has 21, with number 22 LEE COUNTY MOSQUITO CONTROL School Board for 15 years. He was a Deacon on the way this fall. Included in this number and Trustee of Bethany Baptist Church in are 3 Naval Academy Midshipmen and a HON. FRANCIS ROONEY Callao, Virginia and was a member of The scholarship student at Temple University. High OF FLORIDA Gideons International. Greg also served as a school baseball, softball, football and lacrosse athletes, student government representatives, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES member on the Virginia Seafood Council. I had the pleasure of knowing Greg for gymnasts, and cheerleaders are counted Wednesday, May 17, 2017 many years and know his service to this na- among his other grandchildren. Mr. FRANCIS ROONEY of Florida. Mr. tion and dedication to his community and On behalf of the State of Maryland, the Speaker, I rise today to recognize an impor- church have impacted countless lives. Mr. County of Anne Arundel, and our constituents, tant leader in our southwest Florida commu- Speaker, I ask you to join me in recognizing I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude for Dr. nity. the life and honoring the memory of James Ostrowski’s commitment to public service and T. Wayne Gale serves our community as Gregory ‘‘Greg’’ Lewis. inestimable contributions as a father, grand- Executive Director of the Lee County Mosquito f father, dentist, Naval Officer, mentor, coun- Control District (LCMCD), one of the largest selor, and advisor. Not only has he led an ex- mosquito control districts in the United States, HONORING DR. JOHN S. emplary life of service, charity, and industry, with a budget of $23 million. LCMCD monitors OSTROWSKI but he has inculcated those same qualities threats posed by these insects and controls into his children and grandchildren, thus per- populations to reduce mosquito-borne dis- HON. JOHN P. SARBANES petuating the highest ideals of service and citi- eases. Additionally, Mr. Gale serves as Presi- OF MARYLAND zenship in subsequent generations of Naval dent of the American Mosquito Control Asso- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES officers and his family. As he celebrates his ciation. milestone 75th birthday, I congratulate him on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 This is a very important role as mosquito a life well lived and look forward to his con- season approaches, given the threat of Zika in Mr. SARBANES. Mr. Speaker, I rise today tinuing contributions to our communities, and Florida. This dangerous mosquito-borne virus to honor Dr. John S. Ostrowski, a retired Navy wish him, his wife Maeve, his children and his can have devastating effects on infected indi- Captain who will celebrate his 75th Birthday grandchildren all the best in his years ahead. viduals and presents a severe risk for expect- on May 28th. He has lived a life of service to f his country, and has produced a legacy of ant mothers. The LCMCD is proactive in IN HONOR OF THE YEARGIN continued service to our Nation through his spreading awareness to our community to FAMILY’S ACHIEVEMENT make sure citizens are informed about how family as a result of his example, inspiration best to prevent infections, and is one of the and guidance. most advanced mosquito control districts in As an officer in the United States Navy, HON. DAVID KUSTOFF OF TENNESSEE the country. Captain Ostrowski served his country honor- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES We are thankful for dedicated leaders such ably for 26 years as a dentist, with tours of as Mr. Gale in our community, and appreciate duty on ship, ashore at various Naval Hos- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 his leadership in the mosquito control industry. pitals, and overseas in Guantanamo Bay, Mr. KUSTOFF of Tennessee. Mr. Speaker, f Cuba. He pioneered the use of dental implants I rise today to recognize Jay and Alice Anne in the U.S. Navy, and in the latter phase of his Yeargin of Weakley County, Tennessee. The RECOGNIZING THE PASSING OF career, taught a new generation of Navy Den- Yeargin’s were named runner-ups in the MR. JAMES GREGORY ‘‘GREG’’ tists to prepare them for service to their fellow Achievement contest at this year’s Annual LEWIS OF REEDVILLE, VIRGINIA Sailors and Marines. Following his Navy ca- Meeting of the American Farm Bureau Fed- reer, Dr. Ostrowski opened his own private eration in Phoenix, Arizona. HON. ROBERT J. WITTMAN practice in Annapolis Maryland, which he suc- The Yeargins farm approximately 5,000 OF VIRGINIA cessfully operated for over 25 years, providing acres where they raise corn, soybeans, wheat, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES services for the patients in his community. He and cattle. They also host groups on their was often known to provide his dental services farm each year, including the Tennessee Gov- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 for free to those in need—an expression of the ernor’s School for the Agricultural Sciences, to Mr. WITTMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to importance he has consistently placed on share the story of agriculture. The Achieve- recognize the passing of Mr. James Gregory charity and compassion to others. ment Award recognizes young farmers and ‘‘Greg’’ Lewis of Reedville, Virginia on March Dr. Ostrowski and his wife Maeve raised ranchers who have excelled in their farming or 30th, 2017. Greg is survived by his wife, five children—four sons and one daughter. His ranching operations and exhibited superior Donna Garber Lewis; two daughters, Kelly oldest son is a 28-year active duty Marine pilot leadership abilities. Lewis Minor, of Reedville, Virginia, and Aman- who has achieved the rank of Colonel and Mr. Speaker, I am proud to have such a da Lewis Stalnaker of Tappahannock; two served in Iraq, Haiti, Okinawa, and on multiple family as a member of our community and brothers, Evans Lewis (Faye) and Larry Lewis shipboard deployments. His second son joined want to recognize them for their service to (Janet); two sisters, Barbara Lewis Schools the Navy, also as a pilot, attained the rank of West Tennessee and to the agriculture and Janice Lewis Zumot, and four much-loved Commander and commanded a squadron in industry.

∑ 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 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY8.001 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS E648 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 17, 2017 HONORING THE 2016–2017 GRAD- success. They are the voices of the future, and helps create a business environment that UATES OF THE CONGRESSIONAL and I’m proud of them for all that they’ve facilitates home building, enables more Ameri- YOUTH ADVISORY COUNCIL achieved. God bless them and God bless cans to achieve homeownership, and provides America. I salute them. rental housing at all price points. HON. SAM JOHNSON Kayla Adams, Shambhavi Badi, Shree As an organization, NAHB is much more OF TEXAS Balaji, Brooklyn Baum, Joshua Brock, Reagan than builders and remodelers. Its membership includes building trades professionals, archi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Cantrell, Allison Chang, Brandon Chen, Cath- erine Chen, Zachary Clonch, Emily Crone, tects and designers, developers, and rep- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Matthew Daley, Niruti Dhoble, Austin resentatives of countless industries that pro- Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, Dwiggins, Sam Fanatico, Nicholas Garcia, vide goods and services in support of the resi- I rise today to ask my fellow colleagues to join Sreeragini Ghantasala, Emma Guerra, Luke dential construction industry. This includes en- me in commending the 2016–2017 Congres- Harrell, Alice Hou, Timothy Interrante, Austin gineering, insurance, financial services, build- sional Youth Advisory Council. This year, 47 Katzer, Ruxton Kelly, Abby Kistner, Tatiana ing product supply, transportation and many Collin County students from public and private Laporte, Olivia Larson, Nicholas Le. others. schools in grades 9 through 12 made a signifi- I-Jung Lin, David Lorenz, Jonathan Lu, The goal set forth in the Housing Act of 1949 of ‘‘a decent home and a suitable living cant impact in their community, their country, Rahul Naik, Swetha Pamidimukkala, environment for every American family’’ has and their Congress by participating in CYAC. Padmashree Pandy, Purvee Patel, Jackson been a guiding principle for NAHB and its Through the CYAC program, these students Pierce, David Qian, Ben Randoing, Elizabeth members, and they have made great strides in volunteered their talent, expertise, and time to Reed, Emiko Rinkliff, Jakob Shackleton, Cam- achieving that goal. During NAHB’s 75 years, engage on issues that are important to their eron Stapleton, Parker Stevens, Nicolas generation. the total number of housing units in the United Teachenor, Sai Vogirala, Scott Walker, Emily States has more than tripled, growing from I continue to be inspired by the high-caliber Ward, Trent Yarbrough. students who partake in my CYAC program, about 35 million to almost 136 million. f The nation’s standard of living has also in- and this year was no exception. We had a di- creased significantly as a result of the hard verse group of students who already partici- HONORING PRESIDENT TSAI ING- work of NAHB members, who build roughly 80 pate in a multitude of activities including stu- WEN’S 1ST ANNIVERSARY IN OF- FICE percent of the new homes constructed in the dent government, community service, honor U.S. each year. A look back shows how far societies, athletics, fine arts, and language we have come since 1942, when more than clubs. It was exciting to see them apply their HON. SCOTT DesJARLAIS 30 percent of the nation’s homes had no run- experiences and interests to CYAC. They OF TENNESSEE ning water or flush toilets, almost 40 percent were always excited to share their ideas about IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES had no bathtub or shower, 18 percent needed how to create a lasting and sustainable future Wednesday, May 17, 2017 major repairs, almost 60 percent lacked cen- for our country, and it was encouraging to see tral heat, and 20 percent of occupied units their determination, knowledge, and willing- Mr. DESJARLAIS. Mr. Speaker, since Presi- were overcrowded. Now, virtually all homes ness to help those around them. Throughout dent Tsai Ing-wen of Taiwan assumed office have complete plumbing systems and central the past school year, the students met to dis- one year ago, she has continued to bolster the heating, and many fewer homes are consid- cuss issues that affect our everyday lives. robust and beneficial relationship between the ered overcrowded or in need of major repairs. They then applied their knowledge to various United States and Taiwan. NAHB members were instrumental in these homework assignments and group activities. President Tsai has repeatedly stated over significant advances in the quality of the na- Our first meeting focused on Homeland Se- the past year her commitment to the status tion’s housing and the resulting improvement curity—a hot topic of great interest for many quo across the Taiwan Strait. To help Taiwan in the quality of life and standard of living in CYAC students. They heard from special support this goal, we must ensure that its le- our country. Through the decades, those guests District Attorney Greg Willis, new Collin gitimate defense requirements are adequately same members have also been at the fore- County Sheriff Jim Skinner, and FBI Special addressed. This is an ironclad commitment front of innovation, helping to make the na- Agent in Charge Tom Petrowski. The students that is unequivocally articulated in the Taiwan tion’s homes significantly more resource effi- learned about national security at the local Relations Act and the Six Assurances. In fact, cient and sustainable. level and how Americans’ security is a team in March of this year, two of our upgraded Oli- Equally important, NAHB members are vital effort between local, state, and federal lead- ver Hazard Perry-class frigates were delivered to the social fabric of their local communities ers. The meeting concluded with a tour of the to Taiwan, highlighting our existing strong mili- and are actively involved in a multitude of civic Collin County Detention Center. tary and security ties. and philanthropic endeavors. America’s home Their second meeting began with the Con- Looking forward, we are confident that the builders are also essential to the nation’s eco- gressional Veterans Commendation Cere- U.S. and Taiwan will build on our already solid nomic health. Home building accounts for mony. At this event, they learned about local foundation and continue to foster our bilateral roughly 16 percent of the total U.S. economy. veterans’ inspiring stories and helped honor relations across a wide ranging number of Mr. Speaker, I am proud to honor and con- these veterans’ unique legacies of service. fields. I look forward to hearing the Trump Ad- gratulate NAHB on the organization’s 75th An- Following the ceremony, students met with my ministration’s plans for deepening this relation- niversary. I ask my colleagues in the House to Chief of Staff and Legislative Director for an ship in the years ahead. join me in acknowledging the important role insider’s view on what it’s like to work in the I congratulate President Tsai on her first an- that the residential construction industry has halls of Congress. The students’ first semester niversary as the President of Taiwan, and look played over the last 75 years in the nation’s closed with Captain Sam Brown sharing his forward to even closer U.S.-Taiwan coopera- economy and the lives of its citizens. testimony of military and civilian service. He tion under her leadership in the years to And I ask my colleagues to join me in also encouraged them to tackle obstacles and come. thanking the National Association of Home Builders and its members for serving the na- embrace taking on leadership roles. f The CYAC students kicked off the spring tion through their ongoing commitment to semester with a Mock Congress. During this CONGRATULATING THE NATIONAL building the nation’s homes and communities event, students learned firsthand the legisla- ASSOCIATION OF HOME BUILD- and in urging them to remain steadfast in their tive process and how Congress operates. ERS ON ITS 75TH ANNIVERSARY efforts to meet the housing needs of all Amer- Each student was assigned to a committee ican families. with jurisdiction over bills that they were able HON. BLAINE LUETKEMEYER f to amend, debate, and ultimately vote on. OF MISSOURI HONORING BREALAND PENDLETON Lastly, the students gave back to their home- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES towns by completing CYAC in the Commu- HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON nity—service projects where they volunteered Wednesday, May 17, 2017 OF MISSISSIPPI their time to community service work. Alto- Mr. LUETKEMEYER. Mr. Speaker, I rise IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES gether, our CYAC students donated over 185 today to recognize the National Association of community service hours to Collin County. Home Builders on its 75th Anniversary. Wednesday, May 17, 2017 I thank each member of the Congressional Founded in 1942, NAHB represents the in- Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- Youth Advisory Council for making this year a terests of the nation’s home building industry er, I rise today to honor a remarkable student,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\K17MY8.006 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E649 Brealand Pendleton. Brealand Pendleton is Achieving peace today requires recognizing Bachelor of Applied Science in Organizational the daughter of Mr. Christopher and Aubrey the dark parts of our history and honoring the Management from Friends University, after Pendleton of Terry, MS. She is one of four memory of those who were affected. Through which he got his first start in the hospitality siblings: Chris, Braydon and Aubrey Pen- the hard work of community members, today business at the age of twenty-four when his dleton. Currently, Brealand is a Senior of Terry both the Fresno Fairgrounds and Merced Fair- mentor, Jerry Smith, guided him in managing High School where she will be graduating 6th grounds are home to memorials dedicated to a small lodge. Before accepting his current po- out of a class of 320. the victims. Both sites feature plaques with the sition at the Silverado Resort in 2010, Mr. Brealand Pendleton is a very outgoing names of those who were imprisoned and sto- Evans worked as the interim general manager young lady that has served in several capac- ries depicting their harrowing experiences. In of the historic Seaview Hotel near Atlantic ities in her school. Brealand has been a mem- Fresno, the Fresno County Historical Museum City, New Jersey and as the general manager ber of the Band, Flag Team (Senior Captain), features a permanent display entitled ‘‘Japa- of the Ritz-Carlton Resort in Half Moon Bay, Tennis Team (Senior Captain), Beta Club nese in the San Joaquin Valley’’, highlighting California. (Senior Secretary), National Honor Society those who have made significant contributions The AHLA awards their Stars of the Industry (Junior Treasury, Senior Vice-President), Inter- to our Valley. Awards to individuals who perform at the high- act Club (Senior Secretary) and the National Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues in the est level of excellence, demonstrating superior Society of High School Scholars. Brealand has House of Representatives join me in recog- leadership, dedication, and a passion for serv- over 40 hours of community service which var- nizing the 75th anniversary of the evacuation ice. Mr. Evans exemplifies all of these traits. ies from local school participation, helping at and incarceration of thousands of innocent He successfully led his team through and out the Food Network, serving at Stewpot, working Japanese-Americans. It is both fitting and ap- of the recent recession. Mr. Evans lists family with the school blood drive, contributor to the propriate that we mark this solemn day and values, integrity, and generosity as character- Angel Tree and other various community pay tribute to the thousands of Japanese- istics of leaders he strives to emulate. With projects. Americans that were imprisoned and their over thirty-two years of experience leading Brealand will continue her education at Xa- families, who today are staples not only in my teams and managing hospitality properties, vier University in Louisiana, where she will district, but across the United States. Mr. Evans has been awarded the Six Sigma major in Biochemistry. Brealand is a shining f green belt and is recognized as first-level example for Terry High School and her com- sommelier. munity as she works to make it a better place. MAJOR GENERAL WILMOT Mr. Evans also displayed the same leader- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me ship and organizational aptitude in his service in recognizing a remarkable student, leader HON. BRAD R. WENSTRUP on the board of Hands and Hearts for Chil- and community volunteer, Ms. Brealand Pen- OF OHIO dren, an auxiliary of the Children’s Mercy Hos- dleton, for her hard work and dedication at IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES pital in Kansas City. Terry High School and throughout the commu- Mr. Speaker, Mr. John Evans deserves to Wednesday, May 17, 2017 nities of Mississippi. be recognized as the General Manager of the f Mr. WENSTRUP. Mr. Speaker, I rise to con- Year today by virtue of his leadership, commit- gratulate Major General David Wilmot on his ment, and passion for service. I am proud to RECOGNIZING THE 75TH ANNIVER- retirement from the United States Army, and have such a man working and living in our SARY OF THE DAY OF REMEM- to thank him for his dedicated service to the community. It is therefore fitting and proper BRANCE United States of America. that we honor them here today. During Major General Wilmot’s many years f HON. JIM COSTA of service in the Army, including his most re- OF CALIFORNIA cent assignment as the Deputy Surgeon Gen- RECOGNIZING PRESIDENT TSAI ING-WEN OF TAIWAN IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES eral for the Army National Guard, Assistant Surgeon General for Quality and Safety, and Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Deputy Chief of Staff, Quality and Safety, Of- HON. HENRY C. ‘‘HANK’’ JOHNSON, JR. Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to fice of the Surgeon General of the Army, he OF GEORGIA honor the 75th anniversary of the evacuation has proved a top leader in medical readiness, IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES and incarceration of Japanese-Americans dur- shaping readiness, health care, and personnel Wednesday, May 17, 2017 ing World War II, recognized today as the Day issues for the Army National Guard. of Remembrance. Thousands of Japanese- In our current time of needed growth and Mr. JOHNSON of Georgia. Mr. Speaker, Americans gather on this day to mark the sol- development of the United States Armed Saturday, May 20 marks the one-year anniver- emn occasion of one of the darkest moments Forces, medical readiness and personal is sary of the inauguration of President Tsai Ing- of American history. more necessary than ever, to ensure our wen of Taiwan. President Tsai’s election was On February 19, 1942 President Franklin warfighters are properly equipped for the job not only historic, in that she is the first woman Roosevelt signed Executive Order 9066, fol- our country sends them to do. Major General to be elected to that high office, but as the lowing the attack on Pearl Harbor. The order Wilmot’s experience has truly been a service third peaceful election transferring power from allowed for forced removal and internment of to this country, and those who fight for its free- one political party to another. It also dem- anyone of Japanese descent, many of whom dom. onstrates the maturity of Taiwan’s democ- were American citizens and legal permanent Congratulations to Major General Wilmot on racy—a system where the will of the people is residents. A total of 120,000 Japanese-Ameri- his retirement. respected and followed. cans were imprisoned between 1942 and f The relationship between Taiwan and the 1946. All those held were never charged with United States is one of shared values, and is any crime, their only ‘‘crime’’ having been their HONORING JOHN EVANS cemented by the 1979 Taiwan Relations Act, cultural heritage. Innocent families were force- a creation of the Congress, and the Six Assur- fully stripped of their home, jobs and liveli- HON. MIKE THOMPSON ances of 1982 by President Ronald Reagan. It hoods. Families were given ten days to dis- OF CALIFORNIA is supported by countless freedom-loving pose of their property and possessions, only IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Americans, many of whom are members of allowed to bring what they were able to carry. Taiwanese-American communities all over the My district included two of the sixteen tem- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 United States. porary detention centers, located at the Fres- Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, While our two countries have much to cele- no and Merced Fairgrounds Most of the 5,344 I rise today to honor Mr. John Evans upon the brate on this occasion, old challenges are re- held at the Fresno ‘‘Assembly’’ Detention Cen- occasion of being awarded General Manager surfacing where Taiwan’s participation as a ter were there for six months before being of the Year for a large property by the Amer- constructive member of the global community transferred to concentration camps in Arkan- ican Hotel and Lodging Association (AHLA). is concerned. This is most recently manifest in sas. Over 4,600 people were held in the Mr. Evans is the general manager of the the withholding of the invitation to the World Merced ‘‘Assembly’’ Center during the spring Silverado Resort in Napa, California. Health Assembly that begins on May 22. Tai- and summer of 1942, before eventually being Mr. Evans was raised in Marysville, Wash- wan’s 23 million people have much to offer the taken by train to a concentration camp in Col- ington, where his first job was working as a other peoples of the globe, and in a time of orado. paperboy with two routes. He earned his unique challenges, the best minds and talents

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.001 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS E650 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 17, 2017 everywhere in the world should have a part in There were more than 250,000 men serving Patty is the proud mother of three children creating our solutions. We in the Congress, in the Merchant Marine during WWII, all volun- Talbert, Nanette and Peter John. She is also who have been supportive of Taiwan’s partici- teers. They had the distinction of being the blessed with five grandchildren, Matthew, pation countless times in the past, must make only non-segregated service. The Merchant Jerad, Kylie, Kassidy and Caydin. ourselves heard again on this matter. Marine was critical to the mission of our mili- Patty is a loving and generous mother to On this occasion, I wish President Tsai tary service members around the world during her children and was very active in their lives every success as her administration continues the war. when they were in school. She is now playing to unfold, and I want her—as well as her fel- Many of the important contributions of the a similar role with her beloved grandchildren. low citizens—to know that we stand with them. Merchant Marine are not well known, including Patty’s family is the greatest source of love f the fact that they had the highest rate of cas- and pride in her life. ualties in the Armed Services. More than 700 Patty and her husband Peter were active HONORING TY’RIANNE PERRY merchant ships were sunk and more than members of the Cabrillo Club, a Portuguese 8,000 U.S. merchant mariners were killed dur- civic club that is dedicated to civic progress of HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON ing the war. The losses suffered are even Californians of Portuguese descent. Patty cur- OF MISSISSIPPI more remarkable given that the U.S. Merchant rently serves as the President of the Fresno IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Marine was not considered a military branch chapter, a position her husband also held from and was composed of volunteers classified by 1997 through 2000. Wednesday, May 17, 2017 the government as civilians. Every invasion Mr. Speaker, I would like to note that Patty’s Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- during the war involved the Merchant Marine. 75th birthday is an especially significant occa- er, I rise today to honor Ty’Rianne Perry. They suffered tremendous casualties during sion, as Patty is my first cousin. In keeping Ty’Rianne has played a big part in commu- the Battle of the Atlantic, the Murmansk Run, with the Portuguese Catholic tradition, she is nity service and helping out her peers. She D-Day, and as an integral part of every island also my godmother. has participated in the breast cancer aware- invasion in the Pacific Theater. As we come I ask my colleagues to join me today in rec- ness walk. Ty’Rianne volunteers at the Boys close to Memorial Day, it is fitting to pause ognizing Patty Simonian as she celebrates her and Girls Club once a month. She also tutors and remember their heroism and sacrifice. 75th birthday. I ask that you join me in wishing and mentors young children. She volunteers at The United States built nearly 6,000 mer- her and her family continued health and happi- the Golden Living Nursing Home where she chant vessels and naval auxiliaries in 16 ship- ness. plays games and reads stories to the patients. yards with over 650,000 workers. This was an f Ty’Rianne’s outspoken nature serves her as economic and military feat of enormous scale. HONORING THE LIFE AND LEGACY she advocates for the voiceless children and As part of a government effort to encourage OF UNITED STATES ARMY SPE- citizens who cannot speak up for themselves. more American participation in the war effort, CIALIST CALEB MICHAEL COL- Ty’Rianne participates in a Blood Drive ships were named after famous American LINS twice a year, as she loves helping others in all counties and cities. 150 colleges and univer- capacities. Because of her activism and phi- sities also had victory class merchant ships HON. CEDRIC L. RICHMOND lanthropy, Ty’Rianne was able to attend the named for them. Many of these institutions of OF LOUISIANA Chick-fil-A Leader Academy. She was also se- higher education supported important military IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES lected to attend Camp John Hay; a program training programs on their campuses. I am for selected teenagers who volunteered at proud that 13 of these victory class ships were Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Boys and Girls Club. named for institutions in Pennsylvania, includ- Mr. RICHMOND. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Ty’Rianne has walked in the MLK March ing three in the third district: Allegheny Col- to honor the life of United States Army Spe- many times. She encourages everyone to lege, Grove City College, and Westminster cialist Caleb Michael Collins, a New Orleans, make a difference in their community and get College. Louisiana native, who passed away on July up and help out. I am sure all my colleagues join me in tak- 25, 2015, at the tender age of 22. Mr. Speaker please help us to congratulate ing great pride in the history of the United Specialist Collins was a graduate of St. Au- Ms. Ty’Rianne Perry for making a difference in States Merchant Marine and the special place gustine High School class of 2011, and a her community. in our nation’s history associated with their former member of the Marching 100 at the f ships and the men who sailed them. They historic all-male Catholic high school in the 7th have helped preserve our freedom and they Ward of New Orleans. PERSONAL EXPLANATION deserve our gratitude. In July 2015, stationed in Honolulu, Hawaii, f Specialist Collins distinguished himself by dis- HON. TOM MARINO regarding his personal safety by jumping off of OF PENNSYLVANIA RECOGNIZING PATTY SIMONIAN IN a 25 foot ledge into the ocean to save a fellow CELEBRATION OF HER 75TH IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES soldier who had been swept off the Halona BIRTHDAY Blowhole ledge by a wave. Through his coura- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 geous actions, Specialist Collins made the ulti- Mr. MARINO. Mr. Speaker, I was unable to HON. JIM COSTA mate sacrifice. His actions are in keeping with attend votes on May 16, 2017 due to travel OF CALIFORNIA the finest traditions of military heroism and re- delays. Had I been present, I would have IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES flect distinct credit upon himself, 25th Com- voted as follows: YEA for rollcall vote 258. posite Truck Company, 524th Sustainment Wednesday, May 17, 2017 f Support Battalion, 25th Sustainment Brigade, Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in 25th Infantry Division and the United States IN RECOGNITION OF THE UNITED celebration of Mrs. Patty Simonian’s 75th Army. STATES MERCHANT MARINERS birthday. Patty is a beloved mother, grand- Specialist Collins has been awarded the AND THEIR CONTRIBUTIONS TO mother, godmother and friend to many. Soldier’s Medal. The Soldier’s Medal is award- VICTORY IN WORLD WAR II Patty Simonian was born in Merced, Cali- ed to an individual whom while serving in the fornia to John and Mary Costa. She attended Armed Forces of the United States, is recog- HON. MIKE KELLY Central Union High School, where she met her nized by heroism not concerning direct en- OF PENNSYLVANIA high school sweetheart, Peter Simonian. They counter with an enemy. The Soldier’s Medal is IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES would be married on August 26, 1961. the highest military peacetime award for brav- In 1971, Pete and Patty decided to go into ery. Wednesday, May 17, 2017 farming for themselves, forming P. Simonian Specialist Collins’ legacy will forever be a Mr. KELLY of Pennsylvania. Mr. Speaker, Farms. The third generation family-run farm part of the city and his dedication to service today I recognize the United States Merchant was passed down from Patty’s grandfather. embodies the spirit of New Orleans. Specialist Mariners and their vital contributions to the Patty is proud to be one of few female organic Collins’ survivors include his parents, Ernest L. victory of the Allies in World War II. This year, growers in California. She was quoted as say- and Dawn Moore Collins and sisters Chelsi 72 years after our victory in that war, is a fit- ing, ‘‘. . . I’m outside working, irrigating and Marie and Briana Monique Collins. ting time to recognize the contributions of our doing everything that’s necessary on the Mr. Speaker, Specialist Caleb Michael Col- merchant mariners to the war effort. ranch, with the help of my children’’. lins was a tremendously positive young man,

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.005 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E651 always with a word of encouragement for his Vintners Association (MAVA), whose members Director for Reserve Affairs and Sr. ARNG Ad- family and friends. I celebrate the life and leg- include many of the hard-working, entrepre- visor at the Office of the Surgeon General at acy of Specialist Collins, and my thoughts and neurial families and individuals who serve as the Defense Health Headquarters, and have prayers are with his family. a backbone to the wine community in my dis- greatly appreciated his leadership and exper- f trict. tise. The Mexican-American Vintners Association Congratulations to Colonel Owens, to his HONORING YAZOO CITY ALUMNAE was revived in May 2010 with the mission to wife Lonna, on a new chapter, and I thank him CHAPTER OF DELTA SIGMA recognize Napa and Sonoma Wine produced for his mentorship and friendship. THETA SORORITY, INC. by Mexican-American Vintners, advocate for f quality standards, promote the contributions of HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON Mexican-Americans to the wine community, RECOGNIZING HAROLD HAGER OF MISSISSIPPI and to educate and preserve traditions for fu- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ture vintners. In the words of Member Hugo HON. TOM REED Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Maldonado, MAVA ‘‘are not just in the vine- OF NEW YORK yards anymore, they’re a force to be reckoned IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- with.’’ Wednesday, May 17, 2017 er, I rise today to honor a group of women Many members of MAVA have traveled to who has shown what can be done through Washington, DC this week, including Ceja Mr. REED. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to rec- hard work, dedication and a desire to serve Vineyards, Mi Suen˜o Winery, Maldonado Fam- ognize a constituent, Harold Hager, who is their community, Yazoo City Alumnae Chapter ily Vineyards, and the Robledo Family Winery. celebrating his 100th birthday today. of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. The Yazoo They are here, not only to support the mission Mr. Hager has dedicated his life to serving City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta of the Smithsonian Institution, but also to fur- our country and local community. During Sorority, Inc. has served the Yazoo County ther educate Congress about their vital con- World War II, he served in the United States community and the State of Mississippi tributions to our economy and community. Navy as a gunner on the USS Taconic. After through informational meetings, social and Their stories of immigration, sacrifice and de- the war, Mr. Hager returned home and worked civic engagement. termination are what make America great. for many years as a melding technician and The Yazoo City Alumnae Chapter was In addition to supporting their current mem- foreman at Corning Glass Works. In 1972, granted their 30th chartering in the state of bers, the Mexican-American Vintners Associa- after our area was devastated by Hurricane Mississippi on February 2, 1997. Francine tion works to support future vintners by pro- Agnes, Mr. Hager delivered urgently needed Wallace and Edwina Fox, in 1995, had the viding scholarships to deserving students. By food and supplies to his neighbors in Elmira, idea to create a chapter in Yazoo and placed helping those who will follow them, the Vint- New York. an article in the local newspaper. Other Del- ners are preserving the traditions of making Mr. Hager has served as a volunteer with ta’s in the area quickly responded, desiring to and selling quality wine which they have the Steuben County Retired and Senior Volun- continue the mission to which they had worked hard to build. teer Program since February 2012. He was pledged themselves in their college years and Mr. Speaker, we are proud of our Mexican- previously assigned to the Painted Post Food together they worked with the state leadership, American Vintners. Their organization pre- Pantry and he currently serves at the Habitat the southern Region Manager and the national serves and promotes a great tradition of hard for Humanity ReStore in Corning, New York. Headquarters to achieve this objective. Not work and resilience in our community. It is Mr. Hager has accumulated more than 4,500 being swayed, it took several attempts to ac- therefore fitting and proper that we honor them lifetime service hours and, in 2016, he aver- quire the approvals to establish the Yazoo City here today. aged 84 hours per month. He is truly an inspi- Alumnae Chapter. The Yazoo City Deltas trav- f ration. eled to the State Cluster to share their desire I ask my colleagues to join me in cele- to focus on the high rate of teenage preg- PERSONAL EXPLANATION brating Harold Hager’s 100th birthday and rec- nancies in Yazoo County as it was the highest ognizing his life-long commitment to service. rate in the state of Mississippi. Relating their HON. ED PERLMUTTER f dedication to fighting this devastating trend, OF COLORADO HONORING JANA LEIGH CLANTON the Southern Region Manager, on their sec- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ond attempt approved the chartering of the Yazoo City Alumnae Chapter. On February 2, Wednesday, May 17, 2017 HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON 1997 at the St. Stephen United Methodist Mr. PERLMUTTER. Mr. Speaker, on May OF MISSISSIPPI Church 12 members, Mary Ann Brewer, Te- 16, 2017, I was not present to vote on H.R. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES resa Bonner, Diane Delaware, Zellee Dela- 1616, the Strengthening State and Local Wednesday, May 17, 2017 ware, Sandra Younger, Tamara Dodd, Edwina Cyber Crime Fighting Act due to a family med- Gordon-Fox, Marilyn Hathorne, Gloria Elayne ical emergency. Had I been present for roll Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- Owens, Francine Wallace, the late Juanita call No. 258, I would have voted YEA. er, I rise today to honor a remarkable public Scott-Washington and Mary Joshua Young f servant, the late Ms. Jana Leigh Clanton. Jana stood and committed to carry out the public was born January 24, 1996 in Flowood, Mis- service mission of their beloved sisterhood COL STEVEN OWENS sissippi. throughout Yazoo County. Thus, this was the Jana confessed Christ at an early age and beginning of the Yazoo City Alumnae Chapter HON. BRAD R. WENSTRUP joined Mt. Able Missionary Baptist Church of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. OF OHIO under the leadership of Rev. Willie A. Travis, Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Sr., where she was a faithful steward, serving as a clerical volunteer to the church secretarial in recognizing the Yazoo City Alumnae Chap- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 ter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. for its staff and a member of the Mt. Able Anointed dedication to serving others and giving back to Mr. WENSTRUP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today Believers Praise Dance Ministry. the community. to congratulate Colonel Steven Owens on his Jana was a Presidential Scholar at f retirement from the United States Army, and Tougaloo College, where she majored in to thank him for his dedicated service to the English with an emphasis in Pre-Law and was HONORING THE MEXICAN-AMER- United States of America. a student leader, serving as a member of the ICAN VINTNERS ASSOCIATION Colonel Owens’ many years of service in- Student Government Association, a member clude a deployment as the ARNG Medical Ad- of Alpha Lambda Delta honor society and HON. MIKE THOMPSON visor for the Multi-National Corps—Iraq Sur- member of the Tougaloo Ambassadors for OF CALIFORNIA geon’s Office, Baghdad, Iraq, where he was Meritorious Scholars (T.A.M.S.), student re- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES hand-selected to be 1st Corps Surgeon’s Liai- cruitment association. son with the Iraqi Ground Forces Command Jana graduated with honors from Madison Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Surgeon and Medical Trainer for COIN. Central High School in May 2014, most re- Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, I have had the pleasure of serving under cently became licensed as a Certified Phar- I rise today to honor the Mexican-American Colonel Owens, in his assignment as Deputy macy Technician, and accepted a position at

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.010 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS E652 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 17, 2017 CVS Pharmacy. Though she loved science, HONORING THE BAY COUNTY Robledo in Sonoma, California. Incredible for- Jana’s dream was to become the first African SHERIFF’S OFFICE titude and ambition led Reynaldo and his fam- American Female U.S. Supreme Court Jus- ily to the successes they see in their grape tice. HON. NEAL P. DUNN harvests and production of their delicately To her family, Jana was affectionately OF FLORIDA crafted wines. known as ‘‘Jana Pooh Pooh’’. She will always IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES In 1968, at the age of 16, Reynaldo mi- be remembered for her willingness to help oth- ´ Wednesday, May 17, 2017 grated from Michoacan, Mexico to build a bet- ers and for her passion for reading. Jana alter life. He learned viticulture techniques and ways lived life on her own terms and never Mr. DUNN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to good business practices by working hard in met a stranger. thank Sheriff Tommy Ford and the Bay County the vineyards of Northern California, eventu- She leaves to mourn her death, her loving Sheriff’s Office for their service and for holding ally settling in Sonoma County. Reynaldo and and devoted parents, Minister Johnny L. and a memorial for those who lost their lives in the Maria have taught their nine children their Vicky L. Clanton, Sr.; her adoring and loving line of duty. same work ethic by raising them to under- siblings, Waikinya J. S. and Johnny L. The brave men and women of law enforce- stand the regions, grapes and people which Clanton, Jr. ment put their lives at risk every day. They run make wine from our community exceptional. Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me into danger so that others can escape it, and Hard work and sacrifice led Reynaldo and in recognizing Jana Leigh Clanton. they are willing to make the ultimate sacrifice his family to establish two companies, encom- to protect their communities. passing more than 350 acres in Napa, f In 2016, our country lost 145 law enforce- Sonoma, and Lake Counties. The Winery’s ment officers in the line of duty, and so far this focus on perfecting each stage of the CELEBRATING THE LIFE OF KEN year, 50 law enforcement officers have died FUGELSANG winemaking process, ‘‘from vine to bottle,’’ en- on the job. We owe these officers and their sures that their hard work will result in a qual- families a debt of gratitude we can never fully ity product. The story of the Robledo Family HON. JIM COSTA repay. Winery is uniquely American, and I am proud Leah and I are eternally grateful to the Bay OF CALIFORNIA that their success is possible in our commu- County Sheriff’s Office, and indeed, all who IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES nity. wear the badge, for what they do to keep us Wednesday, May 17, 2017 safe, and to honor their brothers and sisters Robledo Family Winery is part of the Mexi- who have fallen. can-American Vintners Association (MAYA), Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to whose members traveled to Washington, D.C. f pay tribute to the life of Mr. Ken Fugelsang. this week as part of a group of Mexican-Amer- Ken was a world-renowned enologist and pro- RECOGNIZING THE COLORADO ican vintners, not only to support the mission fessor emeritus of enology at California State KOREAN CHORUS of the Smithsonian Institution, but also to fur- University, Fresno. For more than four dec- ther educate Congress about their vital con- ades Ken shaped the wine and grape industry tributions to our economy and community. by expertly training students in the art of HON. MIKE COFFMAN OF COLORADO Their stories of immigration, sacrifice and de- winemaking. His impact on his students and termination are what make America great. the industry will be felt for generations to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Mr. Speaker, Robledo Family Winery is a come. Wednesday, May 17, 2017 successful business and is producing extraor- Kenneth Claire Fugelsang was born on De- Mr. COFFMAN. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to dinary wines. I am proud to have such a busi- cember 13, 1946 in Fresno, California to recognize the Colorado Korean Chorus’ 12th ness in our community. It is therefore fitting Ardith and Paul Fugelsang. He attended Cen- Annual Concert. This year the Colorado Ko- and proper that we honor them here today. tral High School, Fresno City College, and rean Chorus is highlighting ‘‘The New Sound graduated with a degree in Biology from Cali- of Music’’ with performances by local and na- fornia State University, Fresno in 1969. He f tional contemporary artists. The Colorado Ko- would go on to earn his master’s degree in rean Chorus celebrates the diversity of our HONORING KASPRINA MOTON 1972. community and brings us together through the Ken joined the Fresno State enology faculty uniting force of music. in 1971. He and his colleagues were instru- It is wonderful to watch and listen to the HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON mental in the founding of the University’s win- members of the Colorado Korean Chorus who OF MISSISSIPPI ery in 1997. This was the first winery licensed find such obvious joy and spirit in singing and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to produce, bottle and sell wine on a university providing entertainment. The moving and campus in the United States. Ken trained beautiful music provides a window into the Wednesday, May 17, 2017 some of the most skilled wine makers in the heart and soul of our Korean community, and Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- nation. He and his students won state, na- further serves to bring the people of Colorado tional and international awards in over 600 er, I rise today to honor a remarkable student, together; connecting the many cultures found Ms. Kasprina Moton. competitions. across the state through the power of music. During his tenure, Ken was noted for his re- The Colorado Korean Chorus continues to Ms. Moton attends Xavier University’s search. He was awarded more than 50 grants be a proud cultural tradition in the State of School of Pharmacy; with a plan to return to and published more than 150 technical pa- Colorado. I want to congratulate the President Mississippi to provide care and support for the pers, 18 books and countless academic jour- Eunjoo Song, Vice President Soonhee Kolrud, under-served and minorities who cannot afford nal articles. Director Taehyun Kim, and all the members of their medical treatments and medications. She Ken’s legacy will truly be on the impact he the Colorado Korean Chorus on 12 wonderful has participated in various activities through- had on his students. He was known as a years and wish them success in the years to out the state of Mississippi. She is a 2006 teacher, mentor and friend to many. Ken posi- come. graduate of Gentry High School and finished tively influenced the lives of many students in 10 percent of her class. She graduated from f with his commitment to their education and Jackson State University with Bachelors of professional development. HONORING THE ROBLEDO FAMILY Science in Chemistry and a 3.7 GPA. She Ken is survived by his wife of 45 years Ann, WINERY graduated from Ole Miss Medical Center Phar- his son Jeffrey, his brother Paul and sister-in- macy Tech program in the top 5 percent of law Cheryl. HON. MIKE THOMPSON her class. She placed first in Miss. NOBeChe of Jackson, Mississippi. And, she also won the Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me OF CALIFORNIA Leadership scholarship of the Boys and Girls in paying tribute to the life and service of Ken IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Fugelsang, whose passion and service to the club in Jackson, Mississippi. enology field has left a monumental impact on Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me the lives of those he worked with. I join Fresno Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, in recognizing Ms. Kasprina Moton for her State and Ken’s family in honoring his life. He I rise today to honor the Robledo Family Win- dedication to serving others and giving back to will be truly missed. ery, owned and operated by Reynaldo the community.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.016 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E653 CONGRATULATING THE BASKING District, Southern Region, serving Sandy Hook college students. In addition, he and his wife RIDGE PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH as well as the Navesink and Shrewsbury riv- were two of the founders of Arte Americas. To ON ITS 300 YEAR ANNIVERSARY ers. Authorized to assist and support USCG support the cultural arts, he contributed gen- non-military and non-law enforcement mis- erous donations, engaged in community serv- HON. LEONARD LANCE sions, the volunteers of the flotilla provide val- ice, and personally refinanced the building’s OF NEW JERSEY uable reinforcement to the USCG. In addition mortgage. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES to participating in marine patrols and search Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me and rescue missions, the auxiliary offers boat- in honoring the life of Judge Armando Rodri- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 ing safety educational programs, performs guez, whose generosity and unending dedica- Mr. LANCE. Mr. Speaker, on June 10, 2017, vessel inspections, provides emergency med- tion to the community will be greatly missed. the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church will ical services and assists with special events in Judge Rodriguez’s memory will live on through celebrate its 300th Anniversary. I am proud to the New York Harbor and surrounding areas. the contributions he made to our Valley. It is join the more than 760 members of the con- The members of the Sandy Hook Flotilla are my honor to join his family and many friends gregation, the clergy and church leaders in trained on USCG standards and live by the in celebrating his impactful life, which will celebrating this very special occasion. motto Semper Paratus (Always Ready). Its never be forgotten. The Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church rapid response and proficient assistance has f was founded in 1717 by a small group of been recognized over the years with several Scotch-Irish farmers. At 1 East Oak Street, the awards, including Best Flotilla in the USA, Ad- PERSONAL EXPLANATION same location where services are still held miral’s Operational Award, President’s Unit Ci- today, those settlers erected a log house of tation and Secretary’s Outstanding Unit HON. LUIS V. GUTIE´RREZ worship that became the cornerstone of the Award. OF ILLINOIS community in Basking Ridge, New Jersey for Mr. Speaker, I sincerely hope my colleagues IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES generations. Until 1837 the church was the will join me in congratulating the United States Wednesday, May 17, 2017 only organization that promoted religious life in Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla 014–02–02 on the area. its 75 years of continuous service and thank- Mr. GUTIE´ RREZ. Mr. Speaker, I was un- The Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church’s ing its members for their service to the United avoidably absent in the House chamber for roll theme for its 300th Anniversary year is ‘‘Shar- States Coast Guard and the community. call vote 258 on Tuesday, May 16, 2017. Had ing God’s Love for 300 years’’ and the mem- f I been present, I would have voted ‘‘Yea’’ on bers of this great faith community are certainly roll call vote 258. living out that mission. Locally, the Church HONORING THE LIFE OF RETIRED f works with organizations like God’s Co-op FRESNO COUNTY SUPERIOR HONORING JALEXIS EVANS Pantry, Raritan Valley Habitat for Humanity, COURT JUDGE ARMANDO RODRI- the Interfaith Hospitality Network and Commu- GUEZ nity in Crisis. Internationally, Basking Ridge HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON Presbyterian supports missionaries in the HON. JIM COSTA OF MISSISSIPPI Ukraine, Haiti and Indonesia as well as relief OF CALIFORNIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES organizations Hogar de Cristo in Ecuador and IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Peaceworks in Nicaragua. These charitable ef- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 forts are shining examples of the great deal of Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- good that comes from faith based organiza- Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to er, I rise today to honor a remarkable student, tions throughout all of the United States. honor and pay tribute to the life of Judge Ms. Jalexis Evans. As the Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church Armando Rodriguez. Judge Rodriguez was an Jalexis is the daughter of the Latoya Lee celebrates this important milestone, I con- influential and honorable servant to the San and Samuel Evans and the granddaughter of gratulate Pastor Reverend Dennis Jones and Joaquin Valley. He was known for being a Shirley Evans and the late Glenda Nelson. Associate Pastor Dr. Maureen Paterson for mentor to many, never hesitating to give his She is a native of Mound Bayou, Mississippi their dedicated efforts. time to others. The San Joaquin Valley will be where she attended John F. Kennedy Memo- As the Church continues to carry on the tra- forever indebted to Judge Rodriguez for his rial High School before being accepted into ditions of the Gospels and spread the good tireless efforts on behalf of the community. the Mississippi School for Mathematics and news, I wish it the best in celebrating the next Armando Rodriguez was born on October Science in Columbus, Mississippi. While at- 300 years. 31, 1929 to Jorge and Carmen Rodriguez. He tending John F. Kennedy she was class presi- Mr. Speaker, I am proud to congratulate the was ninth of twelve children. His parents immi- dent, the founder of the mentorship program, Basking Ridge Presbyterian Church in Basking grated from Mexico, first settling in Merced, ‘‘Girl Talk’’, and a cheerleader. In her spare Ridge, New Jersey in celebrating 300 years of later moving to Fresno. After graduating from time, she volunteers in her community with or- service to the community. I am proud to share Edison High School, Armando married his ganizations such as St. Gabriel’s Mercy Cen- this important milestone with my colleagues in high school sweetheart Betty Raya in 1950. ter, New Life Church, and local nursing the United States House of Representatives During the Korean War, Judge Rodriguez homes. and with the American people. served in the United States Air Force as a One of the greatest impacts she believes she has made is with the mentoring program f Morse code radio operator. Following the war, he attended Fresno State and then law school she initiated, Girl Talk. Girl Talk was created IN RECOGNITION OF UNITED in San Francisco on the GI Bill. solely to help empower, encourage, and equip STATES COAST GUARD AUXIL- Judge Rodriguez began his law career young girls in the community. Their community IARY FLOTILLA 014–02–02 working with the Alameda County Legal Aid activism includes nursing homes visits, Christ- Society and then with the California Rural mas with kindergartners, and hosting a tea HON. FRANK PALLONE, JR. Legal Assistance in Madera before moving party for young ladies in middle school to OF NEW JERSEY onto a private practice in Fresno. In 1972, he teach proper etiquette. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES became the first Latino elected onto the Fres- Jalexis also spends time playing piano and no County Board of Supervisors. Then in guitar. During her tenure at John F. Kennedy Wednesday, May 17, 2017 1975, Governor Jerry Brown appointed Judge she played the trumpet in the marching band. Mr. PALLONE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to Rodriguez to the Municipal Court, making him A passion of Jalexis is caring for the youth join with the officers, staff and members of the first Hispanic judge to serve on the Fresno in her community. Though she believes in- United States Coast Guard Auxiliary Flotilla Municipal Court. Three years later he was volvement in the community is crucial, she 014–02–02 as they celebrate 75 years of con- elected as the first Hispanic judge to serve on also believes her education will take her far. tinuous service to the United States Coast the Fresno County Superior Court. She works diligently to ensure that her future Guard (USCG) at USCG Station Sandy Hook As a strong advocate for education and the goals are within her grasp. Attending the Mis- in Highlands, New Jersey. arts, Judge Rodriguez and his wife Betty, con- sissippi School for Mathematics and Science The United States Coast Guard Auxiliary tinually worked to make advances in the com- has granted her many more opportunities to Flotilla 014–02–02, ‘‘The Sandy Hook Flotilla,’’ munity. In honor of his wife’s passing, he cre- do so. At this school, she receives the best is a unit of the Division 2, First Coast Guard ated a memorial scholarship fund to aid local education possible for high schoolers in the

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.022 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS E654 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 17, 2017 Magnolia state while enriching her knowledge that we pause today to honor the memory of fatal form of pediatric cancer, Diffuse Intrinsic on cultural diversity. Jalexis aspires to enroll the heroes who gave the last full measure of Pontine Glioma, or DIPG. into Tulane University and attend the Tulane devotion and made the ultimate sacrifice. DIPG is a tumor, located in the brain stem, Accelerated Physician Training Program and I want to extend my sincere appreciation to that almost exclusively affects children and for earn her medical degree. She plans to be- Citrus County Sheriff Mike Prendergast and which no treatment exists. come a pediatric oncologist after attending the law enforcement officers who bravely and As any parent knows, there is no worse medical school. She’s yearned to be a doctor selflessly serve Citrus County. It is an honor to feeling in the world than learning your child since the young age of three. Her love for chil- recognize them and all men and women in law has been diagnosed with something fatal and dren pushed her towards the field of pediatrics enforcement. there is nothing they can do about it. Today, May 17, is a special day for advo- and her grandmother’s fight with cancer led to f her interest and passion for oncology. It also cates who are working hard around the world HONORING THE CEJA FAMILY instilled within her a strong determination to to raise awareness for resources and research to combat the disease. find a cure for cancer. HON. MIKE THOMPSON Earlier this year, two research groups, from She pursues success in her everyday life by Northwestern University and the University of continuing to be an example and role model to OF CALIFORNIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Copenhagen in Denmark, published separate her sisters SaMaria, Cilyse, and London. studies with groundbreaking insights into the Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Wednesday, May 17, 2017 genetic mutation that occurs in 80 percent of in recognizing Ms. Jalexis Evans for her edu- Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, DIPG cases. The next set of research will test cational achievements and dedication to other I rise today to honor the Ceja family, Pablo, therapeutic strategies to treat the mutation. youths. Juanita, Amelia, Pedro, Armando and Dalia Congresswoman JACKIE SPEIER and I intro- f who own and operate Ceja Vineyards in Napa, duced H. Res. 69, to formally recognize DIPG Awareness Day in the House of Representa- COL DAMON MATHIS California. Passion and dedication led the Ceja family to the successes they see in their tives. grape harvests and production of premium I’d like to thank Congresswoman SPEIER HON. BRAD R. WENSTRUP Carneros wines. and the 18 other Members who are helping OF OHIO The dream to build Ceja Vineyards began in promote DIPG awareness, the researchers IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES a small village in Mexico, where Pablo Ceja’s who are investigating cures and treatments, Wednesday, May 17, 2017 family lived while he worked in the Brasero and the families and friends of DIPG victims Program in ‘‘el norte.’’ While working in Cali- who are working to search for a cure. Mr. WENSTRUP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today fornia, Pablo came to understand what many f to congratulate Colonel Damon Mathis on his people in our community have learned: in the retirement from the United States Army, and HONORING LYNN MAURICE Napa Valley, hard work and sacrifice in a fair to thank him for his dedicated service to the STINSON system will result in great successes. United States of America. Pablo promised his family that he would A recipient of the Expert Field Medical bring them to a place ‘‘surrounded by vine- HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON Badge, the Parachutist Badge, the Air Assault OF MISSISSIPPI yards growing the finest, sweetest grapes, Badge, the British Parachutist Badge, the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES where hard work is plentiful for those that are Army Staff Badge, and a member of the Order strong.’’ In 1967, Pablo, Juanita and their six Wednesday, May 17, 2017 of Military Medical Merit, Colonel Mathis is a children left Mexico and settled in St. Helena, Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- proven leader in military health. where they found work in the growing number er, I rise today to honor Lynn Maurice Stinson, I’ve had the pleasure to serve with Colonel of local wineries. In 1983, the Ceja family who is a chairman, leader, and educator. Mathis, in his assignment as Director of Re- came together to purchase 15 acres and plant Lynn Maurice Stinson was born in Grenada, serve Affairs in the Office of the Surgeon Gen- their own grapes. By 1988, the second and MS in 1947 to Minnie Louise Stinson and Sam eral, and have greatly appreciated his leader- third generations of the family were cele- Metcalf. He was raised by his maternal grand- ship and expertise. brating their first harvest on ‘‘Ceja land.’’ The parents, Willie B. and Susie Stinson. His early Congratulations to Colonel Mathis, and to family founded Ceja Vineyards, Inc. in 1999 education was at Grenada Colored School his wife Jane, on a new chapter, and thank and today own 113 producing acres. and Willia Wilson Elementary in Grenada. him for his mentorship and friendship. The Ceja family understands the needs and Stinson graduated from Carrie Dotson High f realities of their workers. They provide a pes- School in Grenada, MS in 1966. RECOGNIZING CITRUS COUNTY ticide-free environment and treat their workers Stinson’s desire to continue his education led him to enroll in Coahoma Community Col- LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS like family. Many of Ceja Vineyards workers are loyal to the company and stay on season lege in Clarksdale, MS where he earned an after season. Their story is remarkable. The Associate of Arts degree. Stinson then at- HON. DANIEL WEBSTER Ceja family traveled to Washington, D.C. this tended Jackson State University in Jackson, OF FLORIDA week as part of a group of Mexican-American MS where he earned a Bachelor’s of Science IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES vintners, not only to support the mission of the degree in Education. Stinson returned back to Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Smithsonian Institution, but also to further edu- his home area and began his career in educate Congress about their vital contributions to cation at Stone Street Elementary in Green- Mr. WEBSTER of Florida. Mr. Speaker, I am wood, MS. His first position was teaching the honored to recognize Citrus County Sheriff our economy and community. Their stories of immigration, sacrifice and determination are integrated study of the Social Sciences and Mike Prendergast and the law enforcement of- humanities to promote civic competence to 7th ficers who keep Citrus County safe every sin- what make America great. Mr. Speaker, the Ceja family has built a and 8th grade students. Stinson’s passion was gle day. successful business and are producing ex- to help each student reach their full potential. This week marks the annual observance of traordinary wines. I am proud to have such a He always reminded his students to dream big Police Week. Though we set aside one week family working and living in our community. It and work even harder. a year to honor law enforcement, I encourage is therefore fitting and proper that we honor A few years later, Stinson transferred to all Americans to join me not only this week, them here today. Threadgill Elementary in Greenwood, MS but every day, in recognizing the honor, cour- where he taught Social Studies. He later age, and commitment of America’s law en- f transferred to Greenwood Middle School and forcement. DIPG AWARENESS DAY eventually retired in 2003 with 30 years of Our law enforcement are heroes in the com- service. Stinson has been a strong supporter munity. They keep us safe, and are willing to HON. STEPHEN KNIGHT of education and those committed to working put their lives on the line every day in the OF CALIFORNIA in the field of education. He is a past president course of their duties. It is impossible to fully IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES of the Mississippi Association of Educators express our gratitude or adequately recognize (MAE) in Greenwood, MS. Stinson also used the professionalism of the men and women Wednesday, May 17, 2017 his skills to help adults in his hometown, Gre- who voluntarily put their lives on the line for Mr. KNIGHT. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to nada, by teaching GED night classes for sev- our safety and security. It is with deep respect call attention to a terrible and almost uniformly eral years.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00008 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.026 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E655 In Stinson early years, he was a participant Chairman and CEO of Five Point Holdings CELEBRATING THE 25TH ANNIVER- in the Civil Rights Movement as the commu- LLC, the largest builder of mixed-used, mas- SARY OF JELLYSTONE PARK nity worked to secure equal rights for all citi- ter-planned communities in California, Mr. zens. The reality of past conditions and his Haddad has helped redefine the unique global HON. ELISE M. STEFANIK firsthand knowledge of the effort to open doors vision of twenty-first century communities for OF NEW YORK to African Americans has driven Stinson to thousands of Californians. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES continue his service to the community after his Mr. Haddad’s inspiration for his work stems Wednesday, May 17, 2017 retirement. Stinson presently holds the position of Elec- from his fundamental importance on a strong Ms. STEFANIK. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to tion Commissioner for the City of Grenada. He family unit. Married and a proud father of two recognize the 25th Anniversary of the has served in this position since 2005 with a now adult children, the communities Mr. Jellystone Park in North Hudson, New York. top priority of assuring that the election proc- Haddad builds reflect his vision for helping Since 1992, Jellystone has provided families ess in Grenada is fair to all, and with the high- people live, work, play, and connect with one from New York and beyond with excellent op- est level of integrity. Stinson also serves on another. Additionally, his visions drive his portunities for outdoor recreation. Located in the Board of Trustees for Holmes Community commitment to education, which is why he the beautiful Adirondack Mountains, the park College where he is the chairperson of the In- serves on the advisory and leadership boards allows campers to take in some of the most surance Committee. of four major institutions of higher learning: scenic lakes and forests that the North Coun- Stinson is a proud member of the 100 Black The University of California, Irvine, University try has to offer. On behalf of New York’s 21st District, I Men of Grenada, Inc., where he serves as the of California, Berkeley, Claremont Graduate would like to wish Jellystone Park many years chairman of the Education Committee. Stinson University, and the University of Southern of continued success as they celebrate their is involved in supporting youth and young California. To further his impact, Mr. Haddad’s 25th Anniversary. adults as they strive to prepare themselves for charitable giving also reflects his beliefs in giv- their future and the workforce. ing back to the community. Over the years, he f Stinson is a dedicated member of Belle has received multiple personal honors, notably HONORING BRIAN LOUGHMILLER, Flower Missionary Baptist Church in Grenada, the Father-of-the-Year award from the Amer- MAYOR OF MCKINNEY MS, and has served many years on the dea- ican Diabetes Association and the Man of con board. He also serves as chairman of fi- Character award from the Boy Scouts of HON. SAM JOHNSON nance for the Grenada Baptist District Asso- America. Mr. Haddad continues to leave an in- OF TEXAS ciation Men’s Department. fluential mark as he remembers his journey to IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES When he is not volunteering and partici- America and the path he has taken towards Wednesday, May 17, 2017 pating in church activities, he enjoys traveling success. and playing golf. Mr. SAM JOHNSON of Texas. Mr. Speaker, He has been married to Queen Brooks Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me I rise today to honor Brian Loughmiller, Mayor Stinson for 43 years. They have one daughter, in recognizing the lifelong achievements of Mr. of the City of McKinney, Texas. Brian and his Monica Stinson, who resides in Brandon, MS. Haddad. I congratulate Mr. Emile Haddad for wife, Donna, have lived in McKinney for al- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me this great achievement and ask that you join most 30 years. In his professional career, in recognizing Mr. Lynn M. Stinson, a Chair- me in wishing him and his family continued Brian is the managing partner at the law firm man, Leader and Educator for his dedication prosperity. of Loughmiller Higgins P.C., which is based in to serving others and giving back to the Afri- McKinney. He holds a bachelor’s degree from can American community. f Illinois State University and graduated from f Case Western Reserve University School of CONGRATULATIONS TO WINTECH Law. HONORING EMILE HADDAD FOR Despite a busy professional career, Brian RECEIVING THE ELLIS ISLAND has been very active in serving the McKinney MEDAL OF HONOR HON. BILLY LONG community. He is a past president of the Collin County Bar Association and has served OF MISSOURI HON. JIM COSTA on the McKinney Board of Adjustment, the OF CALIFORNIA IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES McKinney Independent School District Com- munity Redistricting Committee, and the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Wednesday, May 17, 2017 McKinney Chamber of Commerce Board of Di- Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Mr. LONG. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to con- rectors. Brian has also devoted his time to the Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to gratulate WinTech, Inc., on receiving the Mis- Sunrise Rotary Club, Relay for Life, and the honor Mr. Emile Haddad for receiving the Ellis souri impact! Award for Continuous Improve- American Cancer Society. Island Medal of Honor from the National Eth- ment in Manufacturing Excellence from Mis- Brian was first elected to the McKinney City nic Coalition of Organizations. Recipients of Council in 2002, and he served as a Council souri Enterprise. the Ellis Island Medal of Honor are individuals Member for six years. In 2009, Brian was who embody American ideals such as patriot- WinTech, located in Monett, Missouri, is an elected Mayor of McKinney, and he was re- ism, diversity, and tolerance. Receiving such employee owned company founded in 1991. elected in 2013. During his tenure, McKinney an honor is well deserved by a man who em- This company specializes in making some of has been one of the fastest growing cities in braces American principles while upholding his the most cost-effective windows around. As the country. Today, it boasts a thriving popu- traditions of ethnic heritage. someone who represents this part of Missouri, lation of 168,000. Most importantly, McKinney Mr. Haddad was born and raised in Beirut, I couldn’t be more proud to have this business has achieved and managed its growth in a Lebanon prior to the beginning of the civil war. in Missouri’s 7th Congressional District. way that has earned the City national recogni- In his early years, Mr. Haddad attended Amer- The Missouri impact! Award is an award tion for its exceptional quality of life. In 2014, ican University in Beirut, where he studied to given to businesses that have gone above and Money Magazine ranked McKinney as the #1 become a civil engineer. As a young profes- beyond in areas that include manufacturing Best Place to Live, and the City has received sional in a country of instability, Mr. Haddad excellence, innovative technology develop- numerous accolades that recognize it as an made a courageous decision to flee his home- ment, environmental solutions and contributing outstanding community, including being one of land to start a new life in the United States of to Missouri business and community/state the best places in the nation to start a family America. On March 3, 1986, Mr. Haddad and economic development. and to buy a home. Brian has also overseen his now wife Dina, along with other family the revitalization of the City’s Historic Down- members, made their way to Ventura, Cali- I am honored to recognize WinTech and its town, which has become a beautiful, thriving fornia to join his younger brother and begin a dedication to not only southwest Missouri, but center for the community. new life. the many communities throughout Missouri. Having served on the City Council for 14 Beginning as a construction worker, and On behalf of Missouri’s 7th Congressional Dis- years, including eight years as Mayor, Brian after multiple jobs, Mr. Haddad developed a trict, I ask all of my colleagues to join me in will be stepping down in May due to term lim- passion for homebuilding and land-develop- congratulating WinTech on receiving this its. While this role ends for him, he has posi- ment. With an established career and now award. tioned McKinney for a bright future.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00009 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.031 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS E656 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 17, 2017 It has been a pleasure to work with Brian to He retired with the rank of E–7, Sergeant First choosing the right plot of earth, to personally help make McKinney such a wonderful place Class. planting the vineyards and selecting the most to live, and his leadership in this capacity will Mr. King has been married to his lovely attentive distributors, Rolando and Lorena be missed. wife, Sandra Gamble-King for thirty-one years. have created a truly exceptional business and Mr. Speaker, I want to commend Brian for They have three children. Their oldest daugh- product. The White House recognized the his tireless commitment to public service and ter has one daughter, the middle son has a quality of their wines by serving it at state din- his many distinguished accomplishments as set of twins and their baby boy is only sixteen. ners. Mayor of McKinney. I ask my colleagues in They have two Godchildren who they love Rolando and Lorena traveled to Wash- the United States House of Representatives to very much. ington, D.C. this week as part of a group of join me in thanking Brian and his wife, Donna, Mr. King has a total of twenty-three years of Mexican-American vintners, not only to sup- for devoting so much of their time to the law enforcement experience. He started his port the mission of the Smithsonian Institution, McKinney community and in wishing them law enforcement career in Fayette, MS with but also to further educate Congress about happiness and continued success in the fu- the Fayette Police Department and at Alcorn their vital contributions to our economy and ture. State University Police Department both at the community. Their stories of immigration, sac- f same time. Three years later he left the Fay- rifice and determination are what make Amer- ette Police Department and joined the Jeffer- ica great. HONORING KEITH M. KING son County Sheriff’s Office. After working with Mr. Speaker, Rolando and Lorena Herrera the Sheriff’s Office for six years, Mr. King de- have built a successful business and are pro- HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON cided to go back to school in 2006 to expand ducing extraordinary wines. I am proud to OF MISSISSIPPI his career and pursue a Criminal Justice De- have such dedicated business owners living IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES gree, which he obtained in 2010. He grad- and working in our community. It is therefore Wednesday, May 17, 2017 uated with a Bachelor of Art degree having a fitting and proper that we honor them here GPA of 3.5 and he’s still with the Alcorn State today. Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- University Police Department as a Lieutenant. f er, I rise today to honor a resourceful and am- Mr. King is on the deacon’s board at his bitious young man, Mr. Keith M. King. He has church, he sings in the choir, and plays the MAJOR GENERAL WILMOTH shown what can be done through hard work, piano for two different churches. He is an au- dedication and a desire to live a productive thor of inspirational writings. His first published HON. BRAD R. WENSTRUP life. book is entitled ‘‘Crying, Through GOD’S OF OHIO Keith M. King was born April 20, 1959 in Eyes’’. He has completed two more books that IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES New Orleans, LA. He lived there for the first have not been published yet and is currently Wednesday, May 17, 2017 two years of his life, before moving to Las working on another one. He has a weekly col- Vegas, Nevada with his grandparents for the umn in the Fayette Chronicle, the Glory Jour- Mr. WENSTRUP. Mr. Speaker, I rise today next five years. At the age of seven, Mr. King nal and the GAD About Magazine in Fayette, to congratulate Major General Margaret joined his parents in Chicago, IL, but due to MS; along with a column in the Bluff City Post Wilmoth on her retirement from the United the increasing violence, they relocated to Mis- in Natchez, MS. States Army, and to thank her for her dedi- sissippi. Mr. King was then ten years old and Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me cated service to the United States of America. stayed in Mississippi with his parents until the in recognizing Mr. Keith M. King for his dedi- A true leader and trailblazer in her field, age of twelve. He then returned back to Las cation to the U.S. military, the 2nd Congres- Major General Wilmoth served as the first Vegas, Nevada with his grandparents and re- sional District and serving his country and nurse and female commanding general of a sided with them for another four years. At the community. medical brigade with responsibility for wartime age of sixteen, Mr. King moved back to Mis- f readiness of all the U.S. Army Reserve med- sissippi with his parents because of racial riots ical assets in the Southeastern United States, at his school in Las Vegas. HONORING ROLANDO AND LORENA including Puerto Rico. Mr. King was halfway through the 10th HERRERA A recipient of the Defense Superior Service grade as he continued to live in Mississippi Medal, the Legion of Merit, the Meritorious until he graduated from the Jefferson County HON. MIKE THOMPSON Service Medal with four Oak Leaf Clusters, the High School in Fayette, Mississippi. Prior to OF CALIFORNIA Expert Field Medical Badge, and the ‘9A’ Pro- graduating from high school he joined the IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES ficiency Designator in Medical-Surgical Nurs- Army on the delay entry program on Decem- ing awarded by The Surgeon General of the Wednesday, May 17, 2017 ber 16, 1976 and entered the service on Au- U.S. Army, Major General Wilmoth has been gust 8, 1977. He completed his basic training Mr. THOMPSON of California. Mr. Speaker, a true leader and expert in the U.S. Army Re- in Fort Jackson, SC and completed his ad- I rise today to honor Rolando and Lorena Her- serves, and in shaping military health care. vanced individual training in Fort Benning, GA. rera, who own and operate Mi Suenõ Winery Congratulations to Major General Wilmoth He was stationed at Scofield Barracks in Hon- and Vineyards in Napa, California. Love, pas- on her retirement. olulu, HI. During Mr. King’s tour, he was de- sion, and dedication to their craft led Rolando f ployed throughout the Pacific. Some of his and Lorena to the successes they see in their tours were: Guam, USA, Korea, The Phil- grape harvests and production of Carneros, IN CELEBRATION OF PASTOR LAW- ippines Islands, Australia, The Big Island of Russian River Valley, Sonoma Mountain and RENCE BINION SR. AND LADY Hawaii, Japan and Samoa. Napa Valley wines. VALARIE BINION’S 40 YEARS OF On August 8, 1980, Mr. King joined the The dream to build Mi Suenõ Winery began SERVICE AS SENIOR PASTOR AT Army Reserves. His first unit was the 386th in Mexico, where Rolando’s grandparents WESTSIDE CHURCH OF GOD Transportation Unit in Natchez, MS. Mr. King taught him to tend fruits and vegetables in the was still with this unit when they got activated mountainous state of Michoacań and where HON. JIM COSTA on August 27, 1990 to go to Saudi Arabia to Lorena was born. Both of their families immi- OF CALIFORNIA serve in the Desert Shield/ Desert Storm War. grated to the Napa Valley, seeking a better life IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES They stayed in every state in the United and opportunities for their children. Lorena’s States which included Panama, and overseas family taught her about tending vines and Wednesday, May 17, 2017 on numerous occasions. In 1999, Mr. King growing grapes in the vineyards and Rolando Mr. COSTA. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to transferred to the 412th Eng. Battalion in obtained an education and aspired to own his honor the service of Pastor Lawrence Binion Vicksburg, MS and in 2000 he was deployed own business. When the couple met, ‘‘it Sr. and his wife, Valarie Jean Metoyer Binion, and made his sixth and final deployment to seemed like fate.’’ as they celebrate 40 years of service as Sen- Korea before his military career ended. In In 1997, Rolando and Lorena founded Mi ior Pastor and First Lady at West Side Church 2001, he transferred from the 412th Eng. Bat- Suenõ, which is Spanish for ‘‘My Dream,’’ the of God in Fresno, California. Residing in Fres- talion to the 296th Trucking Company in same year that they were married. They be- no since 1977, Pastor Binion and Lady Binion Brookhaven, MS. On August 30, 2002, Mr. lieve that crafting truly unique wines requires have been a blessing to our Valley, and have King retired from the military with over twenty- careful attention to every stage of the dedicated their lives to serving others and five years of military service for his country. winemaking process, from start to finish. From bettering our community.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00010 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.035 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks E657 Born in Fairfield, Alabama, Pastor Binion child was enrolled in kindergarten, Mrs. Smith IN HONOR OF NATIONAL NURSING eventually moved to Los Angeles, California enrolled in beauty school and later received HOME WEEK 2017 where he later met his wife, Valarie. He is a her license to become a hairstylist. She and graduate of Susan Miller Dorsey High School her good friend, Dorothy Casey, co-owned a HON. MIKE ROGERS in Los Angeles, California State University, beauty salon in downtown Yazoo City which OF ALABAMA Los Angeles (UCLA) with a Bachelor’s Degree opened in early 1970s and remained open for IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES in History, Fuller Theological Seminary with a over 30 years. When you stopped by to get Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Master’s Degree in Divinity, and was conferred your hair done, you not only received a great the Doctor of Divinity by the Southern Cali- hair styling, but you also got many words of Mr. ROGERS of Alabama. Mr. Speaker, I fornia School of Ministry. wisdom with a little gospel to lift up your spirits ask for the House’s attention to recognize the Following his education, Pastor Binion until the next time you came. National Nursing Home Week, May 14th to 20th, and recognize our Veterans at the Com- moved to Fresno, California, becoming the Mrs. Smith was once a member of Chapel Senior Pastor of Westside Church of God. munity Living Center (CLC) at the Central Ala- Hill Baptist Church on Brickyard Hill in Yazoo bama Veterans Health Care System One year later, he married the love of his life, City with her husband and children. There she (CAVHCS). Valarie Jean Metoyer, who continued her edu- and several other women met and formed a The American Health Care Association es- cation in the Central Valley. Lady Binion is a gospel group known as the Gospel Carolettes. tablished the National Nursing Home Week in graduate of Fresno Pacific University with a Her husband sang with them as well. The 1967 and this year’s theme is ‘‘The Spirit of Bachelor’s Degree in Business Management Gospel Carolettes not only sang in Church but America.’’ and Organization Development, and served at various Christian events spreading the Mr. Speaker, please join me in recognizing our community as an employee of Fresno Uni- news of the gospel. They also sang on the this special week and thanking all of our Vet- fied School District until retiring in 2013. radio station WAZF each Sunday morning. erans in Alabama. Pastor Binion and Lady Binion have dedi- f cated their lives to serving our Valley with a Mrs. Smith left Chapel Hill Baptist Church passion for serving the Lord and bettering the with her husband and children to become a HONORING THE WASHINGTON IRE- community. Pastor Binion is known for being a member of New Zion Baptist Church where LAND PROGRAM AND CLAUDIA Pastor of Pastors, advising numerous individ- her son, Rev. Willie E. Smith, is the pastor. AND TOM CORCORAN uals, ministries, and organizations in our city There she, not only served as a Mother of the and throughout the Central Valley. He has church, but also works with the Mission HON. BRENDAN F. BOYLE been a member of various community organi- women. Mother Smith taught Sunday School OF PENNSYLVANIA zations dedicated to improving our community, and sang in the choir at New Zion. IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES including West Fresno Ministerial Alliance, Mrs. Smith has been a mother and/or Wednesday, May 17, 2017 West Fresno Healthcare Coalition, City of grandmother figure to many in the church and Mr. BRENDAN F. BOYLE of Pennsylvania. Fresno Police Advisory Council, and the Cen- in her neighborhood; always welcoming others Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor of the tral California Prison Fellowship, to name a into her home, which has always displayed an Washington Ireland Program which works array of beautiful flowers in the yard and many few. He is also the founder and chairman of every day to support leaders committed to green plants indoors for comfort, decoration Southwest Fresno Development Corporation; building a future of peace and prosperity for an organization dedicated to promoting eco- and fresh air. Louise enjoys gardening and Northern Ireland and Ireland. For over two nomic development in West Fresno. preparing dinner with vegetables from her gar- decades, the Washington Ireland Program has Lady Binion has spent the last 38 years den on Sundays for her children, grand- played an important role in post-conflict Ire- serving Westside Church alongside her hus- children, great-grandchildren and any other land by bringing together young leaders from band, assisting him in ministry and serving as visitors from the community. a wide range of communities and backgrounds the Minister of Music and Worship Arts. Like Mrs. Smith has pushed to be a role model for an outstanding leadership and skills-devel- her husband, she has also served with several not only for her children and grandchildren, opment program. organizations for the betterment of our com- but to all in her community. Specifically, I’d like to highlight the work of munity, including Bringing Broken Neighbor- Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me Claudia and Tom Corcoran who have a deep hoods Back to Life, Feed Fresno Food Give- and steadfast commitment to Ireland and its aways, and the West Fresno Ministerial Alli- in recognizing Mrs. Louise Smith for her dedication for change and serving her community. young people. They believe in providing op- ance, to name a few. portunities for people to experience life chang- Mr. Speaker, today I ask my colleagues to ing perspectives and opportunities. The Wash- f join me in recognizing Pastor Binion and Lady ington Ireland Program’s impact today can be Binion, whose passion, kind hearts, and self- REMEMBERING THE USS ‘‘STARK’’ attributed to Claudia and Tom’s early and ef- less service have made an instrumental im- INCIDENT fective advocacy. They have been involved in pact on the lives of those in our Central Valley setting up opportunities for young people from communities. I join the community in honoring the United States to participate in exchange Pastor Lawrence Binion Sr. and First Lady HON. JOE WILSON programs to Ireland, in which both countries Valarie Jean Metoyer Binion for their contribu- benefit from these programs to foster trans- tions and devotion to our community. OF SOUTH CAROLINA atlantic relations and deeper understanding f IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES between our two countries. Claudia’s clear passion for students and HONORING MRS. LOUIS SMITH Wednesday, May 17, 2017 background as an educator is evident through her deep involvement and leadership on the Mr. WILSON of South Carolina. Mr. Speak- Washington Ireland Program Board of Direc- HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON er, today marks the 30th Anniversary of the tors. Originally from Ireland, Tom is exemplary OF MISSISSIPPI tragic attack on the USS Stark during the Iran- of the American Dream. At age 13, Tom emi- IN THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES Iraq War. On May 17, 1987, the USS Stark grated by himself to the United States from Wednesday, May 17, 2017 was on patrol in the Arabian Gulf when an County Caven Ireland, where he was born and Iraqi aircraft fired two missiles at the frigate Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speak- his siblings and parents still remain. He is now without warning. The attack and resulting fire er, I rise today to honor a resourceful and am- quite successful as President at Corcoran En- killed 37 military personnel and wounded 21 bitious mother, Mrs. Louise Smith. Mrs. Smith terprises and serves as a Senior Advisor in others. The brave crew fought the fire through- has shown what can be done through hard the Aerospace and Defense Sector at The work, dedication and a desire to live a produc- out the night and managed to save the ship. Carlyle Group where he assists in developing tive life. I would like to recognize the heroism of the strategy and identifying investments in the Louise Smith was born on February 21, service members who served on the USS aerospace and defense sector. 1925 in Laurel, Mississippi. Stark, including Mr. Luther James Padgett of Tom believes in America as the ‘‘land of op- Mrs. Smith married Samuel Smith on March Gaston, South Carolina, a member of the portunity.’’ Both Tom and Claudia are focused 10, 1946 and together they had 11 children, 5 HSL–32 Squadron. A proud Navy man, he on paying their successes forward and cre- boys and 6 girls. They moved to Yazoo City, served his country from 1977 to 1995. I am ating opportunities for others who come be- Mississippi in the 1950s. When the youngest grateful for his admirable service. hind them, bettering the lives of young people

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00011 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 9920 E:\CR\FM\A17MY8.039 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS E658 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — Extensions of Remarks May 17, 2017 from all parts of Ireland, North, South, East, Committee on Commerce, Science, and 10:30 a.m. and West. Transportation Committee on Appropriations Subcommittee on Space, Science, and Subcommittee on Department of Defense Competitiveness To hold hearings to examine the Presi- f To hold hearings to examine reopening dent’s proposed budget request and jus- the American frontier, focusing on ex- tification for fiscal year 2018 for the SENATE COMMITTEE MEETINGS ploring how the Outer Space Treaty Navy and Marine Corps. will impact American commerce and Title IV of Senate Resolution 4, SD–192 settlement in space. 2:30 p.m. agreed to by the Senate of February 4, SR–253 1977, calls for establishment of a sys- Committee on Armed Services Committee on Environment and Public Subcommittee on Strategic Forces tem for a computerized schedule of all Works To hold hearings to examine Department Subcommittee on Clean Air and Nuclear meetings and hearings of Senate com- of Energy atomic energy defense ac- Safety mittees, subcommittees, joint commit- tivities and programs. To hold hearings to examine making im- tees, and committees of conference. SD–G50 plementation of the National Ambient This title requires all such committees Air Quality Standards for ground-level Committee on Commerce, Science, and to notify the Office of the Senate Daily ozone attainable, including S. 263, to Transportation Digest—designated by the Rules Com- facilitate efficient State implementa- Subcommittee on Consumer Protection, mittee—of the time, place and purpose tion of ground-level ozone standards, Product Safety, Insurance, and Data of the meetings, when scheduled and and S. 452, to amend the Clean Air Act Security any cancellations or changes in the to delay the enforcement and imple- To hold hearings to examine pool safety, focusing on the tenth anniversary of meetings as they occur. mentation of the 2015 national ambient air quality standards for ozone. the Virginia Graeme Baker Pool and As an additional procedure along SD–406 Spa Safety Act. with the computerization of this infor- Committee on the Judiciary SR–253 mation, the Office of the Senate Daily Subcommittee on Border Security and Im- Committee on the Judiciary Digest will prepare this information for migration Subcommittee on Crime and Terrorism printing in the Extensions of Remarks To hold hearings to examine building To hold hearings to examine law enforce- section of the CONGRESSIONAL RECORD America’s trust through border secu- ment access to data stored across bor- on Monday and Wednesday of each rity, focusing on progress on the south- ders, focusing on facilitating coopera- week. ern border. tion and protecting rights. SD–226 Meetings scheduled for Thursday, SD–226 Select Committee on Intelligence May 18, 2017 may be found in the Daily MAY 24 To hold closed hearings to examine cer- Digest of today’s RECORD. tain intelligence matters. Time to be announced SH–219 MEETINGS SCHEDULED Committee on Small Business and Entre- preneurship MAY 25 MAY 23 Business meeting to consider pending calendar business. 9:30 a.m. 9:30 a.m. TBA Committee on Armed Services Committee on Armed Services 9:30 a.m. To hold hearings to examine the posture To hold hearings to examine worldwide Committee on Armed Services of the Department of the Army in re- threats. Subcommittee on SeaPower view of the Defense Authorization Re- SD–G50 To hold hearings to examine industry quest for fiscal year 2018 and the Fu- 2:15 p.m. perspectives on options and consider- ture Years Defense Program. Committee on Foreign Relations ations for achieving a 355 ship Navy. SD–G50 Business meeting to consider pending SR–232A calendar business. 10 a.m. 10 a.m. S–116 Committee on Homeland Security and Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Select Committee on Intelligence Governmental Affairs Forestry To receive a closed briefing on certain To hold hearings to examine border inse- To hold hearings to examine the Farm intelligence matters. curity, focusing on the rise of MS–13 Economy, focusing on perspectives on SH–219 and other transnational criminal orga- rural America. 2:30 p.m. nizations. SR–328A Committee on Armed Services SD–342 2 p.m. Subcommittee on Cybersecurity Committee on the Judiciary Committee on Foreign Relations To hold hearings to examine the cyber To hold hearings to examine the nomina- Subcommittee on Multilateral Inter- posture of the Services; with the possi- tions of Vishal J. Amin, of Michigan, national Development, Multilateral In- bility of a closed session in SVC–217, to be Intellectual Property Enforce- stitutions, and International Eco- following the open session. ment Coordinator, Executive Office of nomic, Energy, and Environmental SR–222 the President, Stephen Elliott Boyd, of Policy Committee on Armed Services Alabama, to be an Assistant Attorney To hold hearings to examine the United Subcommittee on SeaPower General, Department of Justice, and Nations Human Rights Council. To receive a closed briefing on Navy Lee Francis Cissna, of Maryland, to be SD–419 readiness challenges, emerging threats, Director of United States Citizenship Select Committee on Intelligence and the requirements underpinning the and Immigration Services, Department To hold closed hearings to examine cer- 355 ship force structure objective. of Homeland Security. tain intelligence matters. SVC–217 SD–226 SH–219

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:39 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00012 Fmt 0626 Sfmt 0634 E:\CR\FM\K17MY8.009 E17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with REMARKS Wednesday, May 17, 2017 Daily Digest Senate During consideration of this nomination today, Chamber Action Senate also took the following action: Routine Proceedings, pages S2973–S3021 By 51 yeas to 47 nays (Vote No. 130), Senate Measures Introduced: Twenty-eight bills and five agreed to the motion to close further debate on the resolutions were introduced, as follows: S. nomination. Pages S2979–80 1143–1170, and S. Res. 167–171. Pages S3009–10 A unanimous-consent agreement was reached providing for further consideration of the nomination, Measures Reported: post-cloture, at approximately 10 a.m., on Thursday, S. 518, to amend the Federal Water Pollution May 18, 2017, with the time until 12 noon equally Control Act to provide for technical assistance for divided in the usual form; and that notwithstanding small treatment works, with an amendment in the the provisions of rule XXII, the post-cloture time on nature of a substitute. (S. Rept. No. 115–71) the nomination expire at 12 noon. Page S3021 S. 675, to amend and reauthorize certain provi- Messages from the House: Page S3005 sions relating to Long Island Sound restoration and stewardship. (S. Rept. No. 115–72) Measures Referred: Page S3005 S. 826, to reauthorize the Partners for Fish and Executive Communications: Pages S3005–07 Wildlife Program and certain wildlife conservation Petitions and Memorials: Pages S3007–08 funds, to establish prize competitions relating to the prevention of wildlife poaching and trafficking, Additional Cosponsors: Pages S3010–11 wildlife conservation, the management of invasive Statements on Introduced Bills/Resolutions: species, and the protection of endangered species, Pages S3011–18 with an amendment in the nature of a substitute. (S. Additional Statements: Page S3005 Rept. No. 115–73) S. 831, to designate the facility of the United Authorities for Committees to Meet: States Postal Service located at 120 West Pike Street Pages S3020–21 in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, as the ‘‘Police Officer Record Votes: One record vote was taken today. Scott Bashioum Post Office Building’’. (Total—130) Pages S2979–80 Pages S3008–09 Adjournment: Senate convened at 9:30 a.m. and Measures Passed: adjourned at 5:56 p.m., until 10 a.m. on Thursday, May 18, 2017. (For Senate’s program, see the re- Department of Defense Laboratory Day: Senate marks of the Acting Majority Leader in today’s agreed to S. Res. 170, expressing the sense of the Record on page S3021.) Senate that defense laboratories are on the cutting- edge of scientific and technological advancement, and supporting the designation of May 18, 2017, as Committee Meetings ‘‘Department of Defense Laboratory Day’’. Page S3020 (Committees not listed did not meet) National Travel and Tourism Week: Senate agreed to S. Res. 171, supporting the goals and MILITARY SPACE ORGANIZATION ideals of National Travel and Tourism Week and Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Stra- honoring the valuable contributions of travel and tegic Forces concluded a hearing to examine military tourism to the United States. Page S3020 space organization, policy, and programs, including Brand Nomination—Agreement: Senate continued challenges of delayed delivery of critical space capa- consideration of the nomination of Rachel L. Brand, bilities, after receiving testimony from Heather A. of Iowa, to be Associate Attorney General. Wilson, Secretary of the Air Force, General David L. Pages S2974–80 Goldfein, USAF, Chief of Staff of the Air Force, and D537

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:40 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00001 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17MY7.REC D17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with DIGEST D538 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST May 17, 2017 General John W. Raymond, USAF, and General pendent State of Samoa, Department of State, after Samuel A. Greaves, USAF, Space and Missile Sys- the nominee, who was introduced by Senator Collins, tems Center, both a Commander, both of Air Force testified and answered questions in his own behalf. Space Command, all of the Department of Defense; and Cristina T. Chaplain, Director, Acquisition and BUSINESS MEETING Sourcing Management, Government Accountability Committee on Homeland Security and Governmental Af- Office. fairs: Committee ordered favorably reported the fol- U.S. MILITARY SMALL ARMS lowing business items: REQUIREMENTS S. 34, to amend chapter 8 of title 5, United States Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Airland Code, to provide for the en bloc consideration in res- concluded a hearing to examine United States mili- olutions of disapproval for ‘‘midnight rules’’; tary small arms requirements, after receiving testi- S. 829, to reauthorize the Assistance to Fire- mony from Lieutenant General John M. Bednarek, fighters Grants program, the Fire Prevention and USA (Ret.), former Chief, Office of Security Co- Safety Grants program, and the Staffing for Ade- operation-Iraq; and Major General Robert H. Scales, quate Fire and Emergency Response grant program, Jr., USA (Ret.), former Commandant, U.S. Army with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; War College. S. 951, to reform the process by which Federal RUNNING THE GOVERNMENT FOR LESS agencies analyze and formulate new regulations and guidance documents, S. 21, to amend chapter 8 of Committee on the Budget: Committee concluded a hear- title 5, United States Code, to provide that major ing to examine running the government for less, rules of the executive branch shall have no force or after receiving testimony from Gene L. Dodaro, effect unless a joint resolution of approval is enacted Comptroller General of the United States, Govern- into law, with an amendment in the nature of a sub- ment Accountability Office; and Keith Hall, Direc- stitute; tor, Congressional Budget Office. S. 577, to require each agency, in providing notice CURRENT ISSUES IN AMERICAN SPORTS of a rule making, to include a link to a 100 word Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: plain language summary of the proposed rule; Committee concluded a hearing to examine current S. 584, to amend chapter 6 of title 5, United issues in American sports, focusing on protecting the States Code (commonly known as the Regulatory health and safety of American athletes, after receiv- Flexibility Act), to ensure complete analysis of po- ing testimony from Jay C. Butler, Alaska Depart- tential impacts on small entities of rules; ment of Health and Social Services Chief Medical S. 579, to require agencies to publish an advance Officer, Anchorage; Shellie Pfohl, U.S. Center for notice of proposed rule making for major rules; SafeSport, Denver, Colorado; Scott R. Sailor, Na- S. 459, to designate the area between the intersec- tional Athletic Trainers’ Association, Carrollton, tions of Wisconsin Avenue, Northwest and Davis Texas; Robert A. Stern, Boston University School of Street, Northwest and Wisconsin Avenue, Northwest Medicine Alzheimer’s Disease and CTE Center, Bos- and Edmunds Street, Northwest in Washington, ton, Massachusetts; Lauryn Williams, United States District of Columbia, as ‘‘Boris Nemtsov Plaza’’; Anti-Doping Agency, Colorado Springs, Colorado; S. 595, to provide U.S. Customs and Border Pro- and Maureen Deutscher, Sioux Falls, South Dakota. tection with additional flexibility to expedite the AMERICA’S TRANSPORTATION hiring process for applicants for law enforcement po- INFRASTRUCTURE sitions, with an amendment in the nature of a substitute; Committee on Environment and Public Works: Com- mittee concluded a hearing to examine improving S. 696, to amend title 5, United States Code, to America’s transportation infrastructure, after receiv- appropriately limit the authority to award bonuses to ing testimony from Elaine L. Chao, Secretary of Federal employees, with an amendment; Transportation. S. 504, to permanently authorize the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation Business Travel Card Pro- NOMINATION gram; Committee on Foreign Relations: Committee concluded S. 842, to prohibit Federal agencies and Federal a hearing to examine the nomination of Scott P. contractors from requesting that an applicant for em- Brown, of New Hampshire, to be Ambassador to ployment disclose criminal history record informa- New Zealand, and to serve concurrently and without tion before the applicant has received a conditional additional compensation as Ambassador to the Inde- offer;

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:40 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00002 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17MY7.REC D17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with DIGEST May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D539 S. 760, to expand the Government’s use and ad- VETERANS AFFAIRS LEGISLATION ministration of data to facilitate transparency, effec- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Committee concluded a tive governance, and innovation; hearing to examine S. 23, to amend title 38, United S. 831, to designate the facility of the United States Code, to direct the Secretary of Veterans Af- States Postal Service located at 120 West Pike Street fairs to adopt and implement a standard identifica- in Canonsburg, Pennsylvania, as the ‘‘Police Officer tion protocol for use in the tracking and procure- Scott Bashioum Post Office Building’’; ment of biological implants by the Department of S. 1103, to amend the Homeland Security Act of Veterans Affairs, S. 112, to amend title 38, United 2002 to require the Secretary of Homeland Security States Code, to authorize per diem payments under to issue Department-wide guidance and to develop comprehensive service programs for homeless vet- training programs as part of the Department of erans to furnish care to dependents of homeless vet- Homeland Security Blue Campaign; erans, S. 324, to amend title 38, United States Code, S. 1088, to require the collection of voluntary to improve the provision of adult day health care feedback on services provided by agencies; and services for veterans, S. 543, to amend title 38, S. 1099, to provide for the identification and pre- United States Code, to require the Secretary of Vet- vention of improper payments and the identification erans Affairs to include in each contract into which of strategic sourcing opportunities by reviewing and the Secretary enters for necessary services authorities analyzing the use of Federal agency charge cards. and mechanism for appropriate oversight, S. 591, to expand eligibility for the program of comprehensive BUSINESS MEETING assistance for family caregivers of the Department of Committee on Indian Affairs: Committee ordered favor- Veterans Affairs, to expand benefits available to par- ably reported the following business items: ticipants under such program, to enhance special S. 458, to support the education of Indian chil- compensation for members of the uniformed services dren, with an amendment in the nature of a sub- who require assistance in everyday life, S. 609, to stitute; amend the Department of Veterans Affairs Health S. 691, to extend Federal recognition to the Care Programs Enhancement Act of 2001 and title Chickahominy Indian Tribe, the Chickahominy In- 38, United States Code, to require the provision of dian Tribe-Eastern Division, the Upper Mattaponi chiropractic care and services to veterans at all De- Tribe, the Rappahannock Tribe, Inc., the Monacan partment of Veterans Affairs medical centers and to Indian Nation, and the Nansemond Indian Tribe; expand access to such care and services, S. 681, to and amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the benefits and services provided by the Department of S. 1116, to amend the Native American Business Veterans Affairs to women veterans, S. 764, to Development, Trade Promotion, and Tourism Act of amend title 38, United States Code, to improve the 2000, the Buy Indian Act, and the Native American enrollment of veterans in certain courses of edu- Programs Act of 1974 to provide industry and eco- cation, S. 784, to provide for an increase, effective nomic development opportunities to Indian commu- December 1, 2017, in the rates of compensation for nities, with an amendment. veterans with service-connected disabilities and the rates of dependency and indemnity compensation for HIGH RISK LIST FOR INDIAN PROGRAMS the survivors of certain disabled veterans, S. 804, to OVERSIGHT improve the provision of health care for women vet- Committee on Indian Affairs: Committee concluded an erans by the Department of Veterans Affairs, S. 899, oversight hearing to examine the Government Ac- to amend title 38, United States Code, to ensure countability Office’s high risk list for Indian pro- that the requirements that new Federal employees grams, including actions needed to address serious who are veterans with service-connected disabilities weaknesses in Federal management of programs serv- are provided leave for purposes of undergoing med- ing Indian tribes, after receiving testimony from Me- ical treatment for such disabilities apply to certain lissa Emrey-Arras, Director, Education, Workforce, employees of the Veterans Health Administration, S. and Income Security, Government Accountability 1024, to amend title 38, United States Code, to re- Office; Michael Black, Acting Assistant Secretary, form the rights and processes relating to appeals of Indian Affairs, and Tony Dearman, Director, Bureau decisions regarding claims for benefits under the of Indian Education, both of the Department of the laws administered by the Secretary of Veterans Af- Interior; and Rear Admiral Chris Buchanan, Assist- fairs, S. 1094, to amend title 38, United States ant Surgeon General, Public Health Service, Acting Code, to improve the accountability of employees of Director, Indian Health Service, Department of the Department of Veterans Affairs, an original bill Health and Human Services. entitled, ‘‘Serving our Rural Veterans Act’’, and an

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:40 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00003 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17MY7.REC D17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with DIGEST D540 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST May 17, 2017 original bill entitled, ‘‘Veteran Partners’ Efforts to AGING WITH COMMUNITY Enhance Reintegration Act’’, after receiving testi- Special Committee on Aging: Committee concluded a mony from Jennifer S. Lee, Deputy Under Secretary hearing to examine aging with community, focusing of Veterans Affairs for Health for Policy and Serv- on building connections that last a lifetime, after re- ices, Veterans Health Administration; Louis J. Celli, ceiving testimony from Lindsay Goldman, The New Jr., The American Legion, Kayda Keleher, Veterans York Academy of Medicine, Rye Brook; Meg of Foreign Wars of the United States, Adrian M. Callaway, Piscataquis Thriving in Place Collabo- Atizado, Disabled American Veterans, Allison rative, Dover-Foxcroft, Maine; Cathy A. Bollinger, Jaslow, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, Embracing Aging York County Community Founda- and J. David Cox, Sr., American Federation of Gov- tion, Spring Grove, Pennsylvania; and Anamarie ernment Employees, AFL–CIO, all of Washington, Garces, Miami-Dade Age-Friendly Initiative, Miami, D.C. Florida. h House of Representatives vious question was ordered by a yea-and-nay vote of Chamber Action 230 yeas to 189 nays, Roll No. 259. Pages H4236–45 Public Bills and Resolutions Introduced: 35 pub- Suspensions: The House agreed to suspend the rules lic bills, H.R.2475–2509; and 7 resolutions, H. and pass the following measures: Res.329–335 were introduced. Pages H4309–11 Bankruptcy Judgeship Act of 2017: H.R. 2266, Additional Cosponsors: Pages H4312–13 amended, to amend title 28 of the United States Reports Filed: Reports were filed today as follows: Code to authorize the appointment of additional H.R. 195, to amend title 44, United States Code, bankruptcy judges; Pages H4245–48 to restrict the distribution of free printed copies of Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Improvement the Federal Register to Members of Congress and Act of 2017: S. 419, to require adequate reporting other officers and employees of the United States, on the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits program; and for other purposes (H. Rept. 115–128, Part 1); Pages H4248–51 H.R. 2227, to modernize Government information technology, and for other purposes (H. Rept. Thomasina E. Jordan Indian Tribes of Virginia 115–129, Part 1); and Federal Recognition Act of 2017: H.R. 984, to ex- H.R. 2266, to amend title 28 of the United States tend Federal recognition to the Chickahominy Indian Code to authorize the appointment of additional Tribe, the Chickahominy Indian Tribe-Eastern Divi- bankruptcy judges; and for other purposes, with an sion, the Upper Mattaponi Tribe, the Rappahannock amendment (H. Rept. 115–130). Pages H4308–09 Tribe, Inc., the Monacan Indian Nation, and the Nansemond Indian Tribe (Agreed by unanimous Speaker: Read a letter from the Speaker wherein he consent that the ordering of the yeas and nays on the appointed Representative Fitzpatrick to act as Speak- motion to suspend the rules and pass H.R. 984 be er pro tempore for today. Page H4227 vacated to the end that the Chair put the question Recess: The House recessed at 10:54 a.m. and rede novo); Pages H4251–59, H4266 convened at 12 noon. Page H4232 Modernizing Government Technology Act of Guest Chaplain: The prayer was offered by the 2017: H.R. 2227, amended, to modernize Govern- Guest Chaplain, Rabbi Thomas A. Louchheim, Con- ment information technology; Pages H4259–66 gregation Or Chadash, Tucson, AZ. Page H4233 Federal Agency Mail Management Act of 2017: Thin Blue Line Act—Rule for Consideration: H.R. 194, to ensure the effective processing of mail The House agreed to H. Res. 323, providing for by Federal agencies; Pages H4266–67 consideration of the bill (H.R. 115) to amend title Federal Register Printing Savings Act of 2017: 18, United States Code, to provide additional aggra- H.R. 195, to amend title 44, United States Code, to vating factors for the imposition of the death penalty restrict the distribution of free printed copies of the based on the status of the victim, by a recorded vote of 233 ayes to 184 noes, Roll No. 260, after the pre-

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:40 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00004 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17MY7.REC D17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with DIGEST May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D541 Federal Register to Members of Congress and other settlement, and hold Syrian human rights abusers ac- officers and employees of the United States; countable for their crimes. Pages H4281–91 Pages H4267–68 Question of Privilege: Representative Pascrell rose Federal Intern Protection Act of 2017: H.R. to a question of the privileges of the House and sub- 653, to amend title 5, United States Code, to pro- mitted a resolution. The Chair ruled that the resolu- tect unpaid interns in the Federal Government from tion did not present a question of the privileges of workplace harassment and discrimination; the House. Subsequently, Representative Pascrell ap- Pages H4268–69 pealed the ruling of the chair and Representative Rothfus moved to table the appeal. Agreed to the Improving Fusion Centers’ Access to Information motion to table the appeal of the ruling of the Chair Act: H.R. 2169, amended, to amend the Homeland by a yea-and-nay vote of 229 yeas to 188 nays with Security Act of 2002 to enhance information sharing 1 answering ‘‘present’’, Roll No. 261. Pages H4291–94 in the Department of Homeland Security State, Local, and Regional Fusion Center Initiative; American Law Enforcement Heroes Act of 2017: Pages H4269–71 The House agreed to take from the Speaker’s table and pass S. 583, to amend the Omnibus Crime Con- Border Enforcement Security Task Force Reau- trol and Safe Streets Act of 1968 to authorize COPS thorization Act of 2017: H.R. 2281, amended, to grantees to use grant funds to hire veterans as career amend the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to reau- law enforcement officers. Page H4295 thorize the Border Enforcement Security Task Force Senate Message: Message received from the Senate program within the Department of Homeland Secu- by the Clerk and subsequently presented to the rity; Pages H4271–73 House today appears on page H4237. Removing Outdated Restrictions to Allow for Job Senate Referrals: S. 419 was held at the desk. S. Growth Act: H.R. 1177, to direct the Secretary of 583 was held at the desk. S. 867 was referred to the Agriculture to release on behalf of the United States Committee on the Judiciary. S.J. Res. 22 was held the condition that certain lands conveyed to the City at the desk. Page H4308 of Old Town, Maine, be used for a municipal air- Discharge Petition: Representative Swalwell (CA) port, by a 2⁄3 yea-and-nay vote of 418 yeas to 1 nay, Roll No. 262; Pages H4273–74, H4294–95 presented to the clerk a motion to discharge the Committee on Foreign Affairs from the consideration Renaming the Red River Valley Agricultural of H.R. 356, to establish the National Commission Research Center in Fargo, North Dakota, as the on Foreign Interference in the 2016 Election (Dis- Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Research Center: charge Petition No. 2). H.R. 2154, amended, to rename the Red River Val- Quorum Calls—Votes: Three yea-and-nay votes ley Agricultural Research Center in Fargo, North and one recorded vote developed during the pro- Dakota, as the Edward T. Schafer Agricultural Re- ceedings of today and appear on pages H4244, search Center; Pages H4274–75 H4245, H4293, and H4294–95. There were no Combating European Anti-Semitism Act of quorum calls. 2017: H.R. 672, amended, to require continued and Adjournment: The House met at 10 a.m. and ad- enhanced annual reporting to Congress in the An- journed at 8:43 p.m. nual Report on International Religious Freedom on anti-Semitic incidents in Europe, the safety and security of European Jewish communities, and the efforts Committee Meetings of the United States to partner with European gov- STATE OF THE RURAL ECONOMY: ernments, the European Union, and civil society SECRETARY OF AGRICULTURE SONNY groups, and to combat anti-Semitism; Pages H4275–78 PERDUE Expressing the sense of the House of Representa- Committee on Agriculture: Full Committee held a hear- tives regarding the fight against corruption in ing entitled ‘‘State of the Rural Economy: Secretary Central America: H. Res. 145, amended, expressing of Agriculture Sonny Perdue’’. Testimony was heard the sense of the House of Representatives regarding from Sonny Perdue, Secretary, Department of Agri- the fight against corruption in Central America; and culture. Pages H4278–81 AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE Caesar Syria Civilian Protection Act of 2017: PUBLIC WITNESS HEARING H.R. 1677, amended, to halt the wholesale slaughter Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Inte- of the Syrian people, encourage a negotiated political rior, Environment, and Related Agencies held a

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:40 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00005 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17MY7.REC D17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with DIGEST D542 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST May 17, 2017 hearing entitled ‘‘American Indian and Alaska Na- MILITARY PERSONNEL POSTURE: FY 2018 tive Public Witness Hearing’’. Testimony was heard Committee on Armed Services: Subcommittee on Mili- from public witnesses. tary Personnel held a hearing entitled ‘‘Military Per- ADVANCES IN BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH sonnel Posture: FY 2018’’. Testimony was heard Committee on Appropriations: from Lieutenant General James McConville, Deputy Subcommittee on Labor, Chief of Staff, G–1, U.S. Army; Vice Admiral Rob- Health and Human Services, Education, and Related ert Burke, Chief of Naval Personnel; Lieutenant Agencies held an oversight hearing entitled ‘‘Ad- General Mark Brilakis, Deputy Commandant, Man- vances in Biomedical Research’’. Testimony was power and Reserve Affairs, U.S. Marine Corps; and heard from Francis Collins, Director, National Insti- Lieutenant General Gina Grosso, Deputy Chief of tutes of Health. Staff, Manpower, Personnel and Services, U.S. Air APPROPRIATIONS—HOUSE OF Force. REPRESENTATIVES MISCELLANEOUS MEASURE Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legisla- tive Branch held a budget hearing on the House of Committee on Education and the Workforce: Full Com- Representatives. Testimony was heard from the fol- mittee held a markup on H.R. 2353, the ‘‘Strength- lowing officials from the House of Representatives: ening Career and Technical Education for the 21st Karen L. Haas, Clerk; Paul D. Irving, Sergeant at Century Act’’. H.R. 2353 was ordered reported, as Arms; and Phil Kiko, Chief Administrative Officer. amended. AMERICAN INDIAN AND ALASKA NATIVE FUTURE OF EMERGENCY ALERTING PUBLIC WITNESS HEARING Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Inte- Communications and Technology held a hearing en- rior, Environment, and Related Agencies held a titled ‘‘Future of Emergency Alerting’’. Testimony hearing entitled ‘‘American Indian and Alaska Na- was heard from public witnesses. tive Public Witness Hearing’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. EXAMINING INITIATIVES TO ADVANCE PUBLIC HEALTH THE JUDICIARY Committee on Energy and Commerce: Subcommittee on Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Finan- Health held a hearing entitled ‘‘Examining Initia- cial Services and General Government held an over- tives to Advance Public Health’’. Testimony was sight hearing on the Judiciary. Testimony was heard heard from public witnesses. from Julia S. Gibbons, Chair, Committee on the Budget of the Judicial Conference of the United ENERGY OPPORTUNITIES IN SOUTH States; and James C. Duff, Director, Administrative AMERICA Office of the United States Courts. Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on the APPROPRIATIONS—ARCHITECT OF THE Western Hemisphere held a hearing entitled ‘‘En- CAPITOL ergy Opportunities in South America’’. Testimony Committee on Appropriations: Subcommittee on Legisla- was heard from public witnesses. tive Branch held a budget hearing entitled ‘‘Archi- THE BALKANS: THREATS TO PEACE AND tect of the Capitol: FY 2018 Budget’’. Testimony STABILITY was heard from Stephen T. Ayers, Architect of the Capitol. Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Eu- rope, Eurasia, and Emerging Threats held a hearing INITIAL FINDINGS OF THE SECTION 809 entitled ‘‘The Balkans: Threats to Peace and Sta- PANEL: SETTING THE PATH FOR bility’’. Testimony was heard from Hoyt Brian Yee, STREAMLINING AND IMPROVING DEFENSE Deputy Assistant Secretary, Bureau of European and ACQUISITION Eurasian Affairs, Department of State; and public Committee on Armed Services: Full Committee held a witnesses. hearing entitled ‘‘Initial Findings of the Section 809 Panel: Setting the Path for Streamlining and Im- REVITALIZING U.S.-ASEAN RELATIONS proving Defense Acquisition’’. Testimony was heard Committee on Foreign Affairs: Subcommittee on Asia from the following officials from the Section 809 and the Pacific held a hearing entitled ‘‘Revitalizing Panel: Deidre Lee, Chair; and Commissioners Joseph U.S.-ASEAN Relations’’. Testimony was heard from Dyer, Charlie Williams Jr., and William LaPlante. public witnesses.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:40 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00006 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17MY7.REC D17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with DIGEST May 17, 2017 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST D543 TRANSFORMING GPO FOR THE 21ST THE NEED TO REFORM FAA AND AIR CENTURY AND BEYOND TRAFFIC CONTROL TO BUILD A 21ST Committee on House Administration: Committee on CENTURY AVIATION SYSTEM FOR House Administration held a hearing entitled AMERICA ‘‘Transforming GPO for the 21st Century and Be- Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure: Full yond’’. Testimony was heard from Davita Vance- Committee held a hearing entitled ‘‘The Need to Cooks, Director, Government Publishing Office. Reform FAA and Air Traffic Control to Build a 21st Century Aviation System for America’’. Testimony CHALLENGES FACING LAW ENFORCEMENT was heard from Calvin Scovel III, Inspector General, IN THE 21ST CENTURY Department of Transportation; and public witnesses. Committee on the Judiciary: Subcommittee on Crime, MISCELLANEOUS MEASURES Terrorism, Homeland Security, and Investigations held a hearing entitled ‘‘Challenges Facing Law En- Committee on Veterans’ Affairs: Full Committee held a markup on H.R. 91, the ‘‘Building Supportive Net- forcement in the 21st Century’’. Testimony was works for Women Veterans Act’’; H.R. 467, the heard from Jim McDonnell, Sheriff, Los Angeles ‘‘VA Scheduling Accountability Act’’; H.R. 1005, to County, California; Alonzo Thompson, Chief of Po- improve the provision of adult day health care serv- lice, Spartanburg, South Carolina; Art Acevedo, ices for veterans; H.R. 1162, the ‘‘No Hero Left Un- Chief of Police, City of Houston, Texas; and a public treated Act’’; H.R. 1329, the ‘‘Veterans’ Compensa- witness. tion Cost-of-Living Adjustment Act of 2017’’; H.R. 1461, the ‘‘VET Protection Act of 2017’’; H.R. REVIEWING RECENT STATE SUCCESSES 1545, the ‘‘VA Prescription Data Accountability Act WITH THE RIGS TO REEFS PROGRAM 2017’’; H.R. 1662, to prohibit smoking in any facil- Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on En- ity of the Veterans Health Administration; H.R. ergy and Mineral Resources held a hearing entitled 1725, the ‘‘Quicker Veterans Benefits Delivery Act ‘‘Reviewing Recent State Successes with the Rigs to of 2017’’; H.R. 1848, the ‘‘Veterans Affairs Medical Reefs Program’’. Testimony was heard from Frank Scribe Pilot Act of 2017’’; and H.R. 2288, the ‘‘Vet- Rusco, Director, Natural Resources and Environment erans Appeals Improvement and Modernization Act Team, Government Accountability Office; J. Dale of 2017’’. H.R. 1461 and H.R. 1725 were ordered Shively, Leader, Artificial Reef Program, Coastal reported, as amended. H.R. 2288, H.R. 1329, H.R. Fisheries Division, Texas Parks and Wildlife Depart- 1005, H.R. 1662, H.R. 467, H.R. 1545, H.R. ment; and public witnesses. 1848, H.R. 91, and H.R. 1162 were ordered reported, without amendment. SEEKING BETTER MANAGEMENT OF OPPORTUNITIES FOR YOUTH AND YOUNG AMERICA’S OVERGROWN, FIRE-PRONE ADULTS TO BREAK THE CYCLE OF NATIONAL FORESTS POVERTY Committee on Natural Resources: Subcommittee on Fed- Committee on Ways and Means: Subcommittee on eral Lands held a hearing entitled ‘‘Seeking Better Human Resources held a hearing entitled ‘‘Opportu- Management of America’s Overgrown, Fire-Prone nities for Youth and Young Adults to Break the National Forests’’. Testimony was heard from public Cycle of Poverty’’. Testimony was heard from public witnesses. witnesses. SBA’S 7(a) LOAN PROGRAM: A DETAILED REVIEW Joint Meetings Committee on Small Business: Full Committee held a SOCIAL CAPITAL IN AMERICA hearing entitled ‘‘SBA’s 7(a) Loan Program: A De- tailed Review’’. Testimony was heard from Linda Joint Economic Committee: Committee concluded a Rusche, Director, Office of Credit Risk Manage- hearing to examine the state of social capital in ment, Office of Capital Access, Small Business Ad- America today, after receiving testimony from Rob- ministration; and William Manger, Associate Ad- ert D. Putnam, Harvard Kennedy School, and Mario ministrator, Office of Capital Access, Small Business L. Small, Harvard University, both of Cambridge, Administration. Massachusetts; and Charles Murray, American Enter- prise Institute, and Yuval Levin, The Ethics and Public Policy Center, both of Washington, D.C.

VerDate Sep 11 2014 05:40 May 18, 2017 Jkt 069060 PO 00000 Frm 00007 Fmt 0627 Sfmt 0627 E:\CR\FM\D17MY7.REC D17MYPT1 rfrederick on DSK30NT082PROD with DIGEST D544 CONGRESSIONAL RECORD — DAILY DIGEST May 17, 2017 RUSSIAN MILITARY THREAT IN EUROPE Subcommittee on Legislative Branch, budget hearing on the U.S. Capitol Police, 10 a.m., HT–2 Capitol. Commission on Security and Cooperation in Europe: Com- Subcommittee on Legislative Branch, budget hearing mission concluded a hearing to examine the growing on the Library of Congress, 2:30 p.m., HT–2 Capitol. Russian military threat in Europe, focusing on as- Committee on Armed Services, Subcommittee on Seapower sessing and addressing the challenge, after receiving and Projection Forces, hearing entitled ‘‘Amphibious testimony from Michael Carpenter, University of Warfare in a Contested Environment’’, 2 p.m., 2212 Ray- Pennsylvania Biden Center for Diplomacy and Glob- burn. al Engagement, Steven Pifer, The Brookings Institu- Committee on Education and the Workforce, Subcommittee tion, and Stephen G. Rademaker, The Podesta on Health, Employment, Labor, and Pensions, hearing en- Group, all of Washington, D.C. titled ‘‘Regulatory Barriers Facing Workers and Families f Saving for Retirement’’, 10 a.m., 2175 Rayburn. Committee on Energy and Commerce, Subcommittee on COMMITTEE MEETINGS FOR THURSDAY, Health, markup on H.R. 1222, the ‘‘Congenital Heart MAY 18, 2017 Futures Reauthorization Act of 2017’’; H.R. 2410, the ‘‘Sickle Cell Disease Research, Surveillance, Prevention, (Committee meetings are open unless otherwise indicated) and Treatment Act of 2017’’; and the ‘‘FDA Reauthoriza- Senate tion Act of 2017’’, 10 a.m., 2123 Rayburn. Committee on Financial Services, Subcommittee on Mone- Committee on Armed Services: to hold hearings to examine tary Policy and Trade, hearing entitled ‘‘Lessons from the the nominations of Kari A. Bingen, of Virginia, to be a IMF’s Bailout of Greece’’, 10 a.m., 2128 Rayburn. Principal Deputy Under Secretary, Robert Story Karem, Committee on Foreign Affairs, Full Committee, hearing of the District of Columbia, and Kenneth P. Rapuano, of entitled ‘‘U.S. Interests in Africa’’, 10 a.m., 2172 Ray- Virginia, both to be an Assistant Secretary, and Ryan burn. Dean Newman, of New Mexico, to be General Counsel Subcommittee on Africa, Global Health, Global of the Department of the Army, all of the Department Human Rights, and International Organizations, hearing of Defense, 9:30 a.m., SD–G50. entitled ‘‘Disappeared, Jailed, and Tortured in China: Committee on Banking, Housing, and Urban Affairs: to hold hearings to examine domestic and international pol- Wives Petition for Their Husbands’ Freedom’’, 2 p.m., icy, 10 a.m., SD–538. 2172 Rayburn. Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation: busi- Committee on Homeland Security, Subcommittee on ness meeting to consider pending calendar business, 10 Counterterrorism and Intelligence, markup on the a.m., SH–216. ‘‘Transnational Criminal Organization Exploitation Threat Committee on Energy and Natural Resources: to hold hear- Assessment Act’’; H.R. 2453, the ‘‘DHS Intelligence Ro- ings to examine the nomination of David Bernhardt, of tational Assignment Program Act of 2017’’; H.R. 2468, Virginia, to be Deputy Secretary of the Interior, 10:15 the ‘‘Unifying DHS Intelligence Enterprise Act’’; H.R. a.m., SD–366. 2471, the ‘‘Terrorist Release Announcements to Counter Committee on Finance: business meeting to consider an Extremist Recidivism Act’’; H.R. 2454, the ‘‘Department original bill entitled, ‘‘The Creating High-Quality Re- of Homeland Security Data Framework Act of 2017’’; sults and Outcomes Necessary to Improve Chronic H.R. 2470, the ‘‘Homeland Threat Assessment Act’’; (CHRONIC) Care Act of 2017’’, 10 a.m., SD–215. H.R. 2443, the ‘‘Department of Homeland Security Clas- Committee on Foreign Relations: to hold hearings to exam- sified Facility Inventory Act’’; H.R. 2427, the ‘‘Pathways ine the nomination of William Francis Hagerty IV, of to Improving Homeland Security at the Local Level Act’’; Tennessee, to be Ambassador to Japan, Department of H.R. 2433, the ‘‘Homeland Security Assessment of Ter- State, 9:30 a.m., SD–419. rorist Use of Virtual Currencies Act’’; and H.R. 2442, the Committee on the Judiciary: business meeting to consider ‘‘Office of State and Local Law Enforcement Information S. 867, to provide support for law enforcement agency ef- Sharing Review Act’’, 10 a.m., HVC–210. forts to protect the mental health and well-being of law Subcommittee on Oversight and Management Effi- enforcement officers, and the nomination of Amul R. ciency, hearing entitled ‘‘From the Border to Disasters Thapar, of Kentucky, to be United States Circuit Judge and Beyond: Critical Canine Contributions to the DHS for the Sixth Circuit, 10 a.m., SD–226. Mission’’, 2 p.m., HVC–210. Committee on the Judiciary, Full Committee, markup on House H.R. 1973, the ‘‘Protecting Young Victims from Sexual Committee on Appropriations, Subcommittee on Home- Abuse Act of 2017’’; H.R. 2473, the ‘‘Enforcing Justice land Security, oversight hearing entitled ‘‘Coast Guard for Victims of Trafficking Act of 2017’’; H.R. 2431, the Requirements, Priorities and Future Acquisition Plans’’, 8 ‘‘Michael Davis, Jr. and Danny Oliver in Honor of State a.m., 2007 Rayburn. and Local Law Enforcement Act’’; H.R. 2407, to amend Subcommittee on Transportation, Housing and Urban the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to establish United Development, and Related Agencies, hearing entitled States Citizenship and Immigration Services, and for ‘‘Emerging Transportation Technologies’’, 10 a.m., other purposes; and H.R. 2406, to amend section 442 of 2358–A Rayburn. the Homeland Security Act of 2002 to authorize United

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States Immigration and Customs Enforcement, and for Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure, Sub- other purposes, 10 a.m., 2141 Rayburn. committee on Water Resources and Environment, hearing Committee on Natural Resources, Subcommittee on Water, entitled ‘‘Building a 21st Century Infrastructure for Power and Oceans, hearing on H.R. 2371, to require the America: Improving Water Quality Through Integrated Administrator of the Western Area Power Administration Planning’’, 10 a.m., 2167 Rayburn. to establish a pilot project to provide increased trans- Committee on Ways and Means, Subcommittee on Tax parency for customers, and for other purposes; and the Policy, hearing entitled ‘‘How Tax Reform Will Grow ‘‘Water Rights Protection Act’’, 10 a.m., 1324 Long- Our Economy and Create Jobs’’, 10 a.m., 1100 Long- worth. worth. Committee on Oversight and Government Reform, Full Com- Subcommittee on Health, hearing entitled ‘‘Current mittee, hearing entitled ‘‘Federal Employee Compensa- Status of the Medicare Program, Payment Systems, and tion: An Update’’, 9 a.m., 2154 Rayburn. Extenders’’, 2 p.m., 1100 Longworth.

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Next Meeting of the SENATE Next Meeting of the HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES 10 a.m., Thursday, May 18 10 a.m., Thursday, May 18

Senate Chamber House Chamber Program for Thursday: Senate will continue consider- Program for Thursday: Begin consideration of H.R. ation of the nomination of Rachel L. Brand, of Iowa, to 1039—Probation Officer Protection Act of 2017 (Subject be Associate Attorney General, post-cloture, and vote on to a Rule). Complete consideration of H.R. 115—Thin confirmation of the nomination at 12 noon. Blue Line Act. Following disposition of the nomination of Rachel L. Brand, Senate will vote on the motion to invoke cloture on the nomination of Terry Branstad, of Iowa, to be Am- bassador to the People’s Republic of China.

Extensions of Remarks, as inserted in this issue

HOUSE Knight, Stephen, Calif., E654 Rogers, Mike, Ala., E657 Kustoff, David, Tenn., E647 Rooney, Francis, Fla., E647 Boyle, Brendan F., Pa., E657 Lance, Leonard, N.J., E653 Sarbanes, John P., Md., E647 Coffman, Mike, Colo., E652 Long, Billy, Mo., E655 Stefanik, Elise M., N.Y., E655 Costa, Jim, Calif., E649, E650, E652, E653, E655, E656 Luetkemeyer, Blaine, Mo., E648 Thompson, Bennie G., Miss., E648, E650, E651, E651, DesJarlais, Scott, Tenn., E648 Marino, Tom, Pa., E650 E652, E653, E654, E656, E657 Dunn, Neal P., Fla., E652 Napolitano, Grace F., Calif., E647 Thompson, Mike, Calif., E649, E651, E652, E654, E656 Gutie´rrez, Luis V., Ill., E653 Pallone, Frank, Jr., N.J., E653 Webster, Daniel, Fla., E654 Johnson, Henry C. ‘‘Hank’’, Jr., Ga., E649 Perlmutter, Ed, Colo., E651 Wenstrup, Brad R., Ohio, E649, E651, E654, E656 Johnson, Sam, Tex., E648, E655 Reed, Tom, N.Y., E651 Wilson, Joe, S.C., E657 Kelly, Mike, Pa., E650 Richmond, Cedric L., La., E650 Wittman, Robert J., Va., E647

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